Sign in Get Started

Describe a game that you played in your childhood

Archived Old Topic

Cue Card

Describe a game that you played in your childhood

You should say:

  • What the game was
  • When you played it
  • Who you played it with
  • And explain how you felt about the game

Sample Part 3 Questions

  1. What kinds of games do children play these days?
  2. Why do people play different kinds of games after they grow up?
  3. Do you think winning is the most important goal when playing a game?
  4. Do parents in your country encourage children to play games?
  5. What kinds of games do children play at school?

Sample Cue Card Answer

Hide and Seek was the ultimate game of strategy and stealth. I mean, who didn't love the thrill of being 'it' and having to count to 100 while your friends scattered around the house, trying to find the perfect hiding spot? I was always the kid who tried to squeeze myself into the tiniest spaces - behind the curtains, inside a cardboard box, or even under the bed. My friends would always be like, 'How did you even fit in there?!' And I'd be like, 'It's all about the angles, baby!'

But the real challenge was when we played at night. The darkness added an extra level of excitement - and fear. You'd hear the creaks and groans of the old house, and you'd be like, 'Is that the seeker or just the house settling?' It was like our own personal horror movie. And when you finally got caught, you'd have to do the'seeker's walk of shame' back to the starting point, while everyone else cheered and high-fived each other.

Looking back, Hide and Seek was more than just a game - it was a social experiment. It taught us about teamwork, problem-solving, and how to handle disappointment (because let's face it, getting caught sucks). And even though we didn't realize it at the time, it was also a lesson in empathy. When you're the seeker, you have to put yourself in the shoes of the hiders and think, 'Where would I hide if I were them?' It's a game that's all about understanding and connection.

As adults, we don't play Hide and Seek as much (although, let's be real, who wouldn't want to relive those carefree childhood days?). But the lessons we learned from that game have stuck with us. We still use those skills in our personal and professional lives - whether it's navigating a tough project at work or trying to find common ground with someone who has a different perspective.

Cue Card Answer Key Phrases and Idioms

it's all about the angles
a phrase used to describe a situation where someone is able to succeed or achieve something by finding a creative solution or exploiting a weakness
I was able to get the last piece of pizza because it's all about the angles - I snagged it before anyone else could
walk of shame
a phrase used to describe the act of walking in a humiliating or embarrassing manner, often after being caught doing something wrong
After getting caught cheating on the test, he had to do the walk of shame to the principal's office

Sample Part 3 Answers

What kinds of games do children play these days? You know, I think kids these days are really into video games, especially the ones they can play on their tablets or smartphones. I mean, it's just so easy to download an app and start playing, you know? And there are so many different types of games out there, from puzzle games like Tetris to adventure games like Minecraft. But I think what's really popular right now are those online multiplayer games where kids can play with their friends or even people from all around the world. It's just amazing to see how technology has changed the way kids play games.

Why do people play different kinds of games after they grow up? I think people play different kinds of games as adults because their interests and preferences change over time. When we're kids, we're all about having fun and exploring our imagination, so we tend to play games that are more carefree and spontaneous. But as we grow up, we start to develop our own interests and hobbies, and our tastes in games change too. Some people might get into more competitive games like sports or esports, while others might prefer more strategic games like chess or board games. It's all about finding what you enjoy and what challenges you in a good way.

Do you think winning is the most important goal when playing a game? You know, I don't think winning is the only thing that matters when playing a game. I mean, sure, it's great to win and feel a sense of accomplishment, but I think the real value of playing games is in the experience itself. Whether you're playing a board game with friends or a video game solo, the journey is often just as important as the destination. Plus, games are a great way to learn new skills, challenge yourself, and have fun, regardless of whether you win or lose. Of course, a little healthy competition never hurts, but I think it's all about finding a balance and enjoying the process.

Do parents in your country encourage children to play games? In my country, I think parents are starting to realize the value of play in children's development. They're encouraging kids to get outside and play sports, or to engage in creative activities like art or music. And yes, that includes playing games! Parents are starting to see that games can be a great way to teach kids important skills like problem-solving, teamwork, and critical thinking. Of course, there's still a bit of a stigma around screen time, but I think parents are getting more comfortable with the idea of kids playing games in moderation. After all, it's all about finding a balance, right?

What kinds of games do children play at school? Ah, I think kids play all sorts of games at school, depending on their age and the curriculum. In elementary school, they might play classic games like tag, hide-and-seek, or Red Light, Green Light. As they get older, they might play more organized sports like soccer, basketball, or volleyball. And of course, there are always board games and card games that teachers use to teach specific skills or subjects. But I think what's really cool is when schools incorporate games into the classroom in a more creative way, like using educational video games or escape rooms to teach problem-solving and teamwork.

Part 3 Key Phrases and Idioms

finding a balance
to achieve a middle ground between two opposing things
I think parents are getting more comfortable with the idea of kids playing games, as long as they're finding a balance between screen time and outdoor play.
It's all about finding a balance between work and play, so you don't burn out.

Warning: This is an archived topic from a past exam season. It is now out of date.

Do you want all the latest topics and questions that are on the exam right now?

How many questions are on the exam today?

The IELTS speaking test is constantly changing. Here you can find all of the current questions that are valid from October 2024. None of the questions are old or out of date, and they are all being asked by examiners on tests today.

Part 1

57 Topics

(302 current questions)

Read all the topics

Part 2

73 Cue Cards

(For tests beginning 1 Oct 2024)

See all the cue cards

Part 3

300+ Questions

(Today's real questions)

Get all the questions

Start your IELTS speaking test preparation today

Don't be shocked and surprised by what the examiner can ask you.

Get all the speaking test questions before your test date so you're not left speachless when the examiner asks you a weird question you've never thought of before.

Photo of Sophia Rodriguez

“The content and advice were spot on — I scored 8.0 in IELTS speaking and I'm thrilled!”

Sofia Rodriguez, speaking score: 8.0

Get 15% off with coupon code 15OFF at checkout today