Describe a time when the electricity suddenly went off: IELTS Speaking Cue Card

You should say

When/where it happened
What happened when it went off
How people reacted / what you did
And explain how you felt about it

73 unique answers with expert feedback

How did you and your friends react to the power outage?

Initially, we were surprised and a bit confused. My friends were concerned, especially the one who was afraid of the dark. We all started to joke about it, but I could see that some were genuinely worried. It turned into a mix of laughter and panic, especially after my prank.

What do you think about the importance of backup power in hotels?

I believe it's crucial for hotels to have backup power systems. Guests expect a certain level of comfort and safety. A sudden power outage can lead to chaos, as we experienced. It’s important for hotels to be prepared for such situations to ensure guest satisfaction.

Have you ever experienced another power outage since then?

Yes, I have experienced a few power outages since that trip. Some were during storms, and others were just random. Each time, I remember that night in Amritsar, and I often find myself laughing about it. It’s funny how those moments can create lasting memories.

Band 7

00:00

Earlier, electricity cut in summers were quite often. I remember it was the summers of 2010. I was at my grandparents' home with all my cousins, and we experienced electricity cut in our area. Initially, I was very scared because I am afraid of darkness, but seeing all my cousins and family around, I felt safe. We took this opportunity in a fun playing event where we played hide-and-seek, we bonded really well, and we stayed up late at the terrace, which usually, being children, was not allowed. This also gave us a chance to build our team bonding session. We helped our grandmother get batteries, lights, candles, and made a circle together, which was a thrilling experience. After a very long time, around 11 p.m. at night, we got our electricity back, we switched on our ACs, and we slept peacefully. I still remember these events in my life as one of the most thrilling experiences of all time, and I wish I could go back and experience it again.

Follow up questions

How did you feel during the power outage?

Initially, I felt scared because I have a fear of darkness. However, being with my cousins and family made me feel safe and turned the situation into a fun experience.

What activities did you enjoy during the blackout?

We played hide-and-seek, bonded as a family, and even stayed up late on the terrace, which was usually not allowed. It was a great way to connect and have fun together.

How did the experience impact your relationship with your family?

The experience strengthened our bonds as we worked together to gather supplies and enjoyed each other's company. It created lasting memories and brought us closer as a family.

Band 7

00:00

I ended up having an impromptu candlelight gathering with my roommates. I'd like to describe a time the electricity suddenly went off about a year ago while I was at my university dormitory. It was late on a Sunday evening and I was frantically working on a major presentation that was due the next morning. Suddenly, without warning, the lights flickered violently and the entire building was instantly blank and to pitch black darkness. The sudden silence was quite troubling. My immediate reaction was one of the intense frustration because my laptop battery was running low. But I quickly grabbed my phone and used the flashlight to find a few emergency candles. We ended up having an impromptu candlelight gathering with my roommates where we'd talk and share stories until the power was restored. About an hour later, although it initially felt like a disaster, it turned into a welcome respite from my stress-holder. And it made me appreciate how much we rely on a constant electricity supply.

Follow up questions

How did your roommates react to the sudden blackout?

My roommates were initially surprised and a bit annoyed, especially since we were all busy with our own tasks. However, once we lit the candles, they quickly warmed up to the idea of spending time together. It turned into a fun and relaxed atmosphere, which was a nice break from our usual routines.

What activities did you do during the candlelight gathering?

During the gathering, we shared stories about our lives, played some card games, and even sang a few songs. It was a great way to bond and laugh together, which helped us forget about the stress of our studies for a while. We also discussed our favorite memories from university.

How do you feel about electricity outages now?

I have a different perspective on electricity outages now. While they can be inconvenient, I realize they can also provide an opportunity to connect with others and take a break from technology. I’ve learned to appreciate the moments of quiet and the chance to engage in face-to-face conversations.

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Band 7

00:00

I remember an incident last summer where the electricity suddenly went off in my area. It was in the evening around 8 o'clock just after dinner. The weather was extremely hot and humid so everyone was using fans and air conditioners. I think the overload caused the power cut. The power outage lasted for almost 2 hours which felt much longer than it actually was. At first we lit candles and a few emergency lamps to brighten the house. Since there was no fan it was quite comfortable but my family and I decided to sit together in the living room and pass the time. We ended up telling funny stories and even playing a board game which was actually very enjoyable. Personally I felt a little annoyed at the beginning because it was hot to bear the heat without electricity. I was also planning to study online that night. However as the time went by I realized it was a good break from schemes and gadgets. It gave us a chance to spend time as my family without distractions. When the lights finally came back everyone chilled. Although it was inconvenient I think the power cut created a memorable evening for all of us. I remember an incident last summer when the electricity suddenly went off in my area. It was in the evening around 8 o'clock just after dinner.

Follow up questions

How did your family react to the power outage?

Initially, my family was a bit annoyed due to the heat, but we quickly adapted. We lit candles and gathered in the living room, which turned out to be a fun experience as we shared stories and played games together.

What activities did you do during the power cut?

During the power cut, we played a board game and told funny stories. It was a great way to bond without the usual distractions from screens and gadgets, making the evening enjoyable despite the inconvenience.

Do you think power outages are becoming more common?

Yes, I believe power outages are becoming more frequent due to increased demand and aging infrastructure. It's important for communities to prepare for such situations and find ways to cope, just like we did during our experience.

Band 7

00:00

I remember that the most affected I was due to a sudden electricity cut was while I was preparing for JEE Advanced. This had happened due to heavy rain and flooding in our area caused by high water level rise in the waters of the Ganga river. I remember there was panic and devastation all around the place and I had helped my parents to take care of my younger brother. However, it was a very difficult experience as I was preparing for one of the most important examinations I was about to take in my life. Nevertheless, I utilized this opportunity to the fullest. I bonded with my family, my younger brother who was still a kid. I even helped my neighbors and the people in my building. This was a very challenging yet rewarding phase.

Follow up questions

How did you manage your study schedule after the power outage?

After the power outage, I had to adjust my study schedule significantly. I used natural light during the day to study and relied on my notes and textbooks instead of online resources. I also created a more structured timetable to ensure I covered all the topics before the exam.

What other challenges did you face during the electricity cut?

Apart from the lack of electricity, we faced communication issues as our phones were dying. The flooding made it difficult to go out, and we had to deal with the stress of the situation. However, we supported each other as a family, which helped us cope with the challenges.

Did this experience change your perspective on electricity and resources?

Yes, this experience made me appreciate the importance of electricity and reliable resources. I realized how dependent we are on technology for our daily lives and studies. It also taught me the value of community support during tough times, which is something I cherish now.

Show all 73 answers

Cue 1:When/where it happened

Begin by describing the specific location and time when the electricity went off.
Mention any relevant details about the setting, such as whether you were at home, school, or work.

Example

It was a hot summer evening around 7 PM when the electricity suddenly went off at my home. I was in the living room, trying to finish my homework while the ceiling fan was running to keep me cool.

Cue 2:What happened when it went off

Explain the immediate effects of the power outage, such as darkness or loss of appliances.
Mention any specific activities that were interrupted due to the electricity going off.

Example

As soon as the lights went out, the room was plunged into darkness. The fan stopped spinning, and I could hear the distant sounds of my neighbors reacting to the outage. My laptop screen went black, and I realized I couldn’t continue my studies.

Cue 3:How people reacted / what you did

Describe how you and others around you reacted to the sudden power cut.
Mention any actions you took to cope with the situation, like using candles or checking on family members.

Example

My family quickly gathered in the living room, and my mother lit some candles to provide light. My younger brother started to feel scared, so I reassured him that it would be okay. We all sat together, sharing stories to pass the time.

Cue 4:And explain how you felt about it

Share your feelings about the power outage, whether it was frustration, fear, or something else.
Reflect on any positive aspects of the situation, like spending time with family.

Example

Initially, I felt frustrated because I was in the middle of my homework. However, as we sat together in candlelight, I realized it was a nice opportunity to bond with my family. We laughed and talked, which made me appreciate the moment despite the inconvenience.

Conclusion

Example

In conclusion, the sudden power cut was an unexpected event that disrupted my evening. However, it turned into a memorable experience as it brought my family together, reminding me of the importance of spending quality time with loved ones, even in challenging situations.

Following this structure will ensure you cover all the essential points while providing a clear and engaging response to the cue card topic.

Tips to answer this Cue Card

1: Lack of Detail in Description

Failing to provide specific details about when and where the electricity went off can make your answer less engaging and informative. It may leave the examiner with unanswered questions.

Tip

Include specific details such as the location, time of day, and any relevant context to make your story more vivid and relatable.

2: Ignoring Emotional Response

Not expressing how you felt during the power outage can make your response seem flat. Emotions help to connect with the listener and add depth to your answer.

Tip

Share your feelings during the event, whether it was fear, frustration, or humor, to create a more compelling narrative.

Neglecting Reactions of Others

Overlooking how others reacted to the situation can limit the scope of your response. Including others' reactions can enrich your story and provide different perspectives.

Tip

Mention how family, friends, or colleagues reacted to the power outage to add variety and depth to your response.

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