🥇 Describe a competition you took part in (Part 2) + Transcript

This episode explores the IELTS Speaking Part 2 exam and provides a sample response focusing on describing a past competition. Against the backdrop of a request for listener ratings, hosts Rory and Maria discuss Rory's experience participating in a Rotary Club Quiz during primary school, nearly 30 years prior. More significantly, the conversation delves into the nuances of crafting a compelling response, highlighting Rory's use of advanced grammatical structures like inversion. For instance, Maria analyzes Rory's opening statement, "Well, hardly ever have I competed in anything, frankly," praising its Band 9 grammar and emotional impact. The discussion then expands to encompass various competition types, vocabulary, and strategies for structuring a successful response, including using cohesive devices and addressing potential challenges in recalling details from the distant past. Ultimately, the episode offers valuable insights for IELTS test-takers seeking to improve their speaking skills by providing a detailed example and analysis of a strong response.