IELTS Speaking Part 2

Describe a time when someone apologized to you

Describe a time when someone apologized to you

You should say:

One minute to prepare, then speak for one to two minutes.

How to plan it in one minute

  1. Choose a relatable incident to ensure your narrative flow remains natural and easy to follow.
  2. Use the one-minute prep to list three adjectives describing your initial feelings and the apology.
  3. Structure your response chronologically to ensure you cover all four bullet points without losing focus.

Band 8 model answer

A couple of years ago, my close friend Leo accidentally caused a bit of a disaster at my housewarming party. I had spent the entire afternoon meticulously setting up a small buffet on my glass dining table, including a rather expensive crystal vase that had been a housewarming gift from my aunt. Leo, who is usually quite composed, was laughing at a joke and swung his arm back with such force that he sent the vase crashing to the floor. The sound of shattering glass was deafening, and the room went silent instantly. I was genuinely gutted, not just because of the monetary value, but because it held sentimental significance. Leo looked absolutely mortified; his face went pale, and he immediately stopped laughing. The next morning, he showed up at my front door with a sheepish expression and a heartfelt letter. He apologised profusely, explaining that his clumsiness had been inexcusable and that he felt terrible for ruining such a special item. He had even gone out of his way to find an antique shop and bought a replacement vase, though it wasn't an exact match, the gesture was incredibly thoughtful. I responded by telling him that it was just an object and that our friendship was far more important than any piece of crystal. I made sure to emphasise that he shouldn't beat himself up about it because accidents are an inevitable part of life. I felt it was crucial to be forgiving, as his genuine remorse and the effort he made to rectify the situation demonstrated how much he valued our relationship.

264 words, about two minutes at a natural pace. Details are invented; use your own.

Vocabulary from the answer

meticulously
In a way that shows great attention to detail.
gutted
Feeling extremely disappointed or unhappy about a situation.
mortified
Feeling very embarrassed, ashamed, or humiliated by something.
profusely
To a great degree or in large amounts.
inexcusable
Too bad to be justified or forgiven by others.
sheepish
Showing embarrassment from shame or a lack of confidence.
rectify
To put something right or correct a mistake.
inevitable
Certain to happen and impossible to avoid ever.

Part 3 questions that follow this card

Answer each in three to five sentences: position, reason, example, limit. See the Part 3 guide.

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Frequently asked questions

How should I start the cue card "Describe a time when someone apologized to you"?

Choose a relatable incident to ensure your narrative flow remains natural and easy to follow.

How long should my answer be?

Speak for the full two minutes, about 220 to 280 words at a natural pace. The examiner will stop you at two minutes, which is a good sign, not a problem.

Can I use this model answer in the exam?

Use its structure and vocabulary, not its sentences. Examiners recognise memorised answers and mark fluency down; a shorter answer from your own memory scores higher than a recited one.

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