Sign in Get Started

Describe an interesting neighbor

Archived Old Topic

Cue Card

Describe an interesting neighbor

You should say:

  • how you first met them
  • what they are like
  • what you do together; and
  • explain why they are interesting.

Sample Part 3 Questions

  1. Do you think most people are friends with their neighbors nowadays?
  2. How can people improve their relationship with their neighbors?
  3. How do children make friends with other children nowadays?
  4. Is it beneficial to get along with your neighbors?

Sample Cue Card Answer

I've lived in my apartment for five years now, and I've had my fair share of neighbors. But there's one guy who stands out from the rest - Mr. Jenkins. He's a retired accountant in his late sixties, with a wild look in his eye and a passion for taxidermy. Yes, you read that right. Taxidermy. I've lost count of how many times I've walked past his apartment and seen a new stuffed animal staring back at me through the window.

At first, I thought it was weird, but the more I got to know Mr. Jenkins, the more I realized that his taxidermy hobby was just a small part of what made him so fascinating. He's a world traveler, a polyglot, and a master chef. He's got a collection of exotic spices from his travels that he uses to whip up the most incredible dishes. I've been lucky enough to be invited over for dinner a few times, and let me tell you, it's an experience you'll never forget.

But what really sets Mr. Jenkins apart is his sense of curiosity. He's always asking questions, always seeking out new knowledge and experiences. He's got a childlike wonder that's infectious, and being around him makes you want to see the world in a new light. I've learned so much from him, from the art of making the perfect soufflé to the history of the ancient Egyptians.

Despite his many talents and interests, Mr. Jenkins is humble and kind. He's always willing to lend a helping hand, whether it's carrying groceries or fixing a leaky faucet. He's the kind of neighbor who makes you feel like you're part of a community, not just a random collection of strangers living in the same building.

So, the next time you're tempted to write off your neighbors as boring or weird, take a closer look. You never know what hidden talents or fascinating stories they might be hiding. And who knows, you might just find yourself with a new friend, like I did with Mr. Jenkins.

Cue Card Answer Key Phrases and Idioms

a wild look in his eye
a glint or sparkle in someone's eye that suggests they are enthusiastic, mischievous, or unconventional
He's got a wild look in his eye when he talks about his taxidermy hobby.
She's got a wild look in her eye when she's planning a new adventure.
a childlike wonder
a sense of curiosity and awe that is typical of children, but is also present in some adults
He approaches life with a childlike wonder, always asking questions and seeking out new experiences.
She's got a childlike wonder when it comes to art, always seeing the beauty in the world around her.

Sample Part 3 Answers

Do you think most people are friends with their neighbors nowadays? Honestly, I think that's becoming a rare thing. I mean, people are just so busy with their own lives, and we're all so connected to our screens that we don't really have the time or the inclination to get to know the people living right next door. I've noticed that in my own neighborhood, people will wave and say hi, but that's about it. We don't really have those old-fashioned block parties or neighborhood gatherings like we used to. It's a shame, because I think having a good relationship with your neighbors can really make a big difference in your quality of life.

How can people improve their relationship with their neighbors? I think one way to improve your relationship with your neighbors is to take a genuine interest in their lives. You know, ask them about their family, their job, their hobbies... just show them that you care. And then, find ways to help them out. Maybe they need help shoveling snow or carrying groceries, or maybe they're going through a tough time and just need someone to listen. By showing your neighbors that you're invested in their well-being, you can start to build a real connection with them. Plus, it's just good karma, right?

How do children make friends with other children nowadays? I think kids make friends in a lot of the same ways they always have - through school, through sports, through extracurricular activities. But I also think that social media has changed the game a bit. Kids are connecting with each other online, and that can be a great way to meet new people and make friends. But at the same time, I think it's also important for kids to have face-to-face interactions with their peers. That's why I think it's so important for parents to encourage their kids to participate in activities that get them out of the house and interacting with other kids. Whether it's a sports team, a club, or just a playdate with a friend, socializing is key to making friends at any age.

Is it beneficial to get along with your neighbors? Absolutely, getting along with your neighbors is beneficial in so many ways. For one thing, it just makes your living situation more pleasant. You don't have to worry about noise complaints or disputes over property lines. But beyond that, having a good relationship with your neighbors can also be a safety net. If you need help in an emergency, they're more likely to be there for you. And let's not forget about the practical benefits - if you need to borrow something or get advice on a project, a friendly neighbor can be a lifesaver. Plus, it's just nice to have someone to talk to and share a cup of coffee with every now and then.

Part 3 Key Phrases and Idioms

break the ice
to do or say something to relax and make people feel more comfortable in a social situation
I tried to break the ice at the party by asking everyone about their weekend.

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