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Jan-Apr 2025 Prediction
Experiences

Describe a time you forgot something important

You should say:

  • What you forgot
  • When it was
  • Who were you with
  • How you felt

🎙️ Band 9 Model Answer

Model Answer RecordingAI SYNTHESIS
Ready to listenBand 9 Audio
I once forgot my passport while heading for a flight to Italy for a best friend's wedding. The sudden sense of dread was heart-stopping. I had to dash back home, book a new flight, and deal with intense self-loathing. It was a steep learning curve and a massive reality check.

✨ Natural Vocabulary Used

Heart-stoppingCausing great fear or excitement.
Self-loathingIntense dislike of oneself.

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Expert Insights

Frequently Asked Questions

Get definitive answers from IELTS examiners and high-band experts.

The test lasts between 11 and 14 minutes and is divided into three parts.
You can ask for clarification! Say 'Could you repeat the question, please?' or 'I'm not exactly sure what you mean by [word].'
No. You are marked on pronunciation, not accent. As long as you are clear and easy to understand, you can achieve a Band 9.
You must speak for at least 1 minute, but aim to keep talking until the examiner stops you at the 2-minute mark.
Avoid slang, but use idiomatic expressions and natural phrasal verbs to show a high level of fluency (Band 7.5+).
While not a marking criterion, eye contact shows confidence and helps with natural communication.
You can be honest! Say 'That's an interesting question, I've never really thought about it, but I suppose...' to keep the fluency going.
Aim for 2-3 sentences. Don't give one-word answers, but don't talk for too long as there are many questions to cover.