Sign in Get Started

Describe something you received for free

Archived Old Topic

Cue Card

Describe something you received for free

You should say:

  • What it was
  • Who gave it to you
  • Why it was given to you
  • And explain how you felt about it.

Sample Part 3 Questions

  1. Do you think people should pay for higher education? Why?
  2. Do you think it’s good for people to have access to free education?
  3. What free gifts do businesses often give to their customers?
  4. Why do people like to receive free gifts from companies?

Sample Cue Card Answer

I got a bike when I was a kid, and it was a total game-changer. My neighbor, Mr. Johnson, had just moved away and was getting rid of a bunch of stuff. He had this sweet, shiny bike with streamers on the handlebars and a bell that let out the most obnoxious, yet awesome sound. I mean, who needs a fancy car when you've got a bike like that, right? He just handed it over to me and said, 'Take care of it, kiddo.' No strings attached. I was so stoked.

That bike became my freedom. I rode it everywhere – to school, to the park, to my friends' houses. It was my mode of transportation, my escape, my adventure-mobile. I'd ride it down huge hills, feeling the wind in my hair and the sun on my face. I'd ride it to the nearby woods and explore, pretending I was in a real-life video game. That bike opened up a whole new world for me.

But what really stuck with me was the kindness behind it. Mr. Johnson didn't have to give me that bike. He could've sold it or thrown it away, but he chose to give it to me. It was a small act of kindness that had a huge impact on my life. It taught me the value of generosity and the importance of paying it forward. And every time I see someone riding a bike, I'm reminded of that feeling of freedom and joy that Mr. Johnson gave me for free.

Cue Card Answer Key Phrases and Idioms

game-changer
Something that has a significant and positive impact on a situation or person's life.
The new policy was a game-changer for the company.
The scholarship was a game-changer for her education.
no strings attached
Without any conditions or expectations.
He gave me the money with no strings attached.
The company offered the job with no strings attached.
pay it forward
To do a good deed for someone in response to a good deed done for you, rather than paying back the original person.
I paid it forward by buying coffee for the person behind me.
She paid it forward by volunteering at the local animal shelter.

Sample Part 3 Answers

Do you think people should pay for higher education? Why? I don't think people should pay for higher education because it's a fundamental right that everyone deserves. Think about it, education is the key to unlocking opportunities and improving one's socio-economic status. By making education free, governments can ensure that everyone has an equal chance to succeed, regardless of their financial background. Plus, educated individuals contribute to the growth and development of society as a whole, so it's really an investment in the future. Just imagine if some of the brightest minds were held back simply because they couldn't afford tuition fees – it's a loss for everyone.

Do you think it’s good for people to have access to free education? Absolutely, having access to free education is a game-changer. Not only does it level the playing field, but it also fosters a culture of lifelong learning. When people aren't burdened by student loans, they're more likely to pursue their passions and interests without worrying about the financial implications. This, in turn, leads to a more informed and enlightened society. Plus, free education can help bridge the gap between different socio-economic groups, promoting social mobility and equality. It's a win-win situation, really.

What free gifts do businesses often give to their customers? Businesses often give away free gifts like loyalty rewards, discounts, or exclusive offers to their customers. For instance, a coffee shop might offer a free drink after a certain number of purchases, or a clothing store might provide a complimentary accessory with a minimum purchase. These gifts are usually designed to encourage customer loyalty, increase brand awareness, and drive sales. But, let's be real, who doesn't love getting something for free? It's a great way for businesses to show appreciation for their customers and build a positive relationship with them.

Why do people like to receive free gifts from companies? People love receiving free gifts from companies because it makes them feel valued and appreciated. Let's face it, who doesn't love the feeling of getting something for nothing? It's a psychological thing – when we receive a free gift, our brains release endorphins, making us feel happy and more likely to associate that feeling with the brand. Plus, free gifts often create a sense of reciprocity, making us more likely to return the favor by becoming loyal customers or recommending the brand to others. It's a clever marketing tactic, really.

Part 3 Key Phrases and Idioms

unlocking opportunities
to create or provide a chance for something good to happen
Education is the key to unlocking opportunities and improving one's socio-economic status.
game-changer
something that has a significant impact or effect
Having access to free education is a game-changer.
level the playing field
to make a situation fair for everyone, by removing any unfair advantages
Having access to free education levels the playing field.
fosters a culture of lifelong learning
to encourage and support a culture where people continue to learn and develop throughout their lives
Having access to free education fosters a culture of lifelong learning.
bridge the gap
to connect or bring together two or more things that are separate
Free education can help bridge the gap between different socio-economic groups.
win-win situation
a situation where everyone benefits or gains something
Having access to free education is a win-win situation.
loyalty rewards
rewards or benefits given to customers who regularly buy from a company or use its services
Businesses often give away free gifts like loyalty rewards to their customers.
drive sales
to encourage or persuade people to buy something
Free gifts are usually designed to drive sales.
show appreciation
to express gratitude or thanks
Free gifts are a great way for businesses to show appreciation for their customers.
reciprocity
the act of giving something in return for something else
Free gifts often create a sense of reciprocity.

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