This is considered a relatively new topic in IELTS Speaking, which often causes candidates to struggle when developing ideas. In this article, IDP will walk you through how to build a solid outline, learn high-scoring vocabulary, and discover sample answers to give you inspiration and direction for your response.
1. Topic Breakdown – Describe a Time When You Helped a Child
In IELTS Speaking Part 2, you will receive a cue card with a specific topic and some guiding questions. You will have one minute to take notes and prepare, and one to two minutes to deliver your response.
This part of the test assesses your ability to organize and express ideas clearly and logically. Below is a suggested outline with sample points to help you prepare.
Cue Card: Describe a time when you helped a child You should say:
When it was
How you helped him or her
Why you helped him or her
And how you felt about it
2. Suggested Outline – Describe a Time When You Helped a Child
Below is an outline and sample arguments you can refer to for the topic - Describe a time when you helped a child:
When it was
| Families and kids were having a great time at the park on this sunny Saturday afternoon as they participated in a variety of activities. I decided to relax and enjoy the nice weather by taking a stroll. |
Why did you help him/her?
| I saw some kids playing close to the playground as I strolled along the route. A tiny kid who appeared to be in some discomfort His face was expressionless as he fiddled with a knotted kite string. I went to him out of curiosity and concern and offered to help. |
How did you help him/her?
| walked over to the young child, smiled broadly asked if he needed assistance flying his kite He nodded shyly, and I picked up the knotted mess with care started to untie the knot gently and patiently while walking the youngster through each step We worked together to straighten the string, untangling the mess, and soon enough, the kite was ready to take flight. |
How did you feel about it | I felt so fulfilled by his delight that it reminded me of my childhood Seeing the boy’s face light up when his kite took up into the sky was quite satisfying. It served as a reminder of the enormous positive effects that even seemingly insignificant deeds of kindness can have. |
3. Sample Answer – Describe a Time When You Helped a Child (Part 2)
Describe a time when you helped a child
Sample Response:
Years ago, I helped my niece, Lily, to overcome stage fright at her kindergarten dance recital. She'd been practicing a cute little routine all semester, but when the spotlight hit and it was her turn to shine, she refused to go on stage. Stage fright can be frightening, and for Lily, it made her burst into tears! I was going to take her home, but her teacher insisted that I encourage her to participate to build her confidence.
Then we had a little discussion and I offered to go on stage with her. At first, Lily was hesitant, but I reassured her that we could dance together. She finally agreed, her tiny hand in mine, we walked onto the stage and danced away. I felt a sense of relief in my heart, and looking back, I was so glad that the teacher talked me into helping boost Lily’s confidence. Afterwards, Lily her confidence grew little by little, she took part in extracurricular activities. In secondary school, she was captain of the debate team. She has grown to be a confident lady and our family is very proud of her.
High-Scoring Vocabulary:
Overcome: to defeat or manage something challenging
Stage fright: fear of performing in front of an audience
Recital: a performance, usually of music or dance
Burst into tears: suddenly start crying
Hesitant: unsure or unwilling
Reassure: to comfort or calm someone
Relief: the removal of stress or fear
Talk someone into: persuade someone
Extracurricular: outside of the regular school curriculum
Debate: formal discussion or argument
4. Sample Questions and Answers – IELTS Speaking Part 3
Question: Do you often help kids? How?
I would not say often, since most of my time is spent working and interacting with adults or teenagers. And I am not a parent yet. That said, if I ever see a child in trouble, like being lost or upset, I would not hesitate to help. I cannot ignore a crying child.
Vocabulary:
Revolves around: focuses on
As a matter of fact: in reality
Avert my eyes from a crying child: cannot ignore a distressed child
Question: Should parents teach their children to help others?
Absolutely. Teaching children to help others builds character and fosters empathy. Early exposure to kindness makes them better individuals. It helps them understand that life is more fulfilling when we make a positive impact. It also encourages them to be humble and more aware of others’ needs.
Vocabulary:
Build up character: develop good qualities
Fulfilling: emotionally rewarding
Be exposed to: be introduced to
Sensitive to the needs of others: aware of others’ feelings
Preoccupied with: focused only on oneself
Question: Who benefits more from volunteer services, the volunteers or those receiving help?
Both sides benefit. Volunteers gain a sense of purpose and community, while those receiving help get support that may be life-changing. However, I believe underprivileged individuals benefit more, as such help may lift them out of difficult situations.
Vocabulary:
Underprivileged: disadvantaged
Lift someone out of: help someone escape a difficult situation
5. Topic Vocabulary – Describe a Time When You Helped a Child
General Vocabulary
Word or Phrase | Meaning | Example |
Terrified | Very scared | He was terrified of snakes. |
Graciously | Kindly and respectfully | She graciously accepted the request. |
Altruistic | Selfless, caring about others | True altruism involves compassion. |
Obliged | Required to do something | I was obliged to change my plans. |
Supportive | Ready to help | My friends are very supportive. |
Burst into tears | Start crying suddenly | She burst into tears after the news. |
Generosity | Willingness to give and help | His generosity inspired others. |
Philanthropy | Charitable acts | Many admire her efforts in philanthropy. |
Underprivileged | Lacking basic needs | The foundation helps underprivileged children. |
Useful Collocations
Collocation | Meaning |
Calm someone down | Help someone relax |
Gesture of kindness | An act of goodwill |
Out of someone's element | In an unfamiliar situation |
For the greater good | For everyone’s benefit |
Mean a lot to someone | Be very meaningful |
Sense of helpfulness | Feeling of contributing |
Look after someone | Take care of someone |
Useful Idioms
Idiom | Meaning |
Give a hand | Offer help |
Safe and sound | Unharmed and well |
Lend a helping hand | Assist someone |
Lead by example | Show others how to behave |
Bring something to one’s aid | Provide help |
Help a lame dog over a stile | Help someone in need |
Explore More IELTS Speaking Topics
Describe a game you played in your childhood
Talk about yourself
Describe an occasion when you waited a long time for a nice thing
Describe a piece of clothing you enjoy wearing
Describe a website you often visit
Describe something you own that you want to replace
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The above vocabulary and ideas can help you deliver a high-scoring answer for the topic "Describe a time when you helped a child." Practice regularly and review IELTS Speaking scoring criteria to understand what examiners are looking for in your responses.
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