IELTS Speaking Part 2 · Objects
Describe a gift you received that you really liked
Describe a gift you received that you really liked
You should say:
- what the gift was
- who gave it to you
- what occasion you received it on
and explain why you liked this gift so much.
How to plan your answer
Use your 1 minute to jot down key words for each point, not full sentences.
- 1
what the gift was
Gift: Custom leather-bound journal with my initials subtly embossed on the cover.
- 2
who gave it to you
Giver: My childhood best friend who knows my passion for creative writing.
- 3
what occasion you received it on
Occasion: University graduation dinner last summer after our final ceremony.
- 4
and explain why you liked this gift so much.
Reason and Closing: Deeply cherished for its thoughtful personalization and encouraging sentimental value.
Sample answer
about 238 words · 2 minutesI'd like to talk about a gift that truly meant the world to me. It was a beautiful, custom leather-bound journal with my initials subtly embossed on the front cover. Inside, the pages were thick and rustic, making it feel like something out of an old library. This special present was given to me by my childhood best friend, who has known me for over ten years. She knew how much I enjoyed jotting down ideas and writing short stories in my spare time, so she went out of her way to find something unique that matched my personality. I received this gift last summer on the day of our university graduation. After the formal ceremony, we gathered with our families for dinner to celebrate finishing our degrees. Just as we were about to say our goodbyes, she handed me a neatly wrapped package and told me to open it right away. The main reason I cherished this gift so much was the incredible thought behind it. In a world where people usually give generic items or digital gift cards, getting a personalized notebook felt exceptionally meaningful. Every time I open it to write, I am reminded of her support and our long friendship. It was not just a practical notebook, but a heartfelt token that inspired me to pursue my creative passions even further. Looking back, it is definitely the most cherished gift I have ever received.
A teaching example, not a script to memorise. Say it in your own words.
Useful phrases
meant the world to me
My grandmother's old silver necklace truly meant the world to me.
jotting down ideas
I keep a small notepad in my pocket for jotting down ideas during work.
went out of her way
Our host went out of her way to prepare a special meal for us.
cherished this gift
He cherished this gift because it was handed down from his grandfather.
heartfelt token
She gave me a framed photo as a heartfelt token of appreciation.
Common mistakes
I really liked this gift because it was very cost.
I really liked this gift because it was very expensive.
Cost is a noun or verb, not an adjective describing an object.
My friend gave to me a book.
My friend gave me a book.
The verb give takes an indirect object directly without using a preposition.
I am receiving this present two years ago.
I received this present two years ago.
Past events completed in the past require the simple past tense.
Tips for a higher band
- Use expressive vocabulary related to feelings and sentiment rather than just describing physical attributes.
- Avoid over-using basic adjectives like good or nice; try words like thoughtful, meaningful, or practical.
- Maintain a natural speaking pace by connecting your thoughts with smooth transitions instead of abrupt pauses.
Part 3 follow-up questions
After Part 2 the examiner may ask deeper questions on the same theme.
- Do you think people nowadays spend too much money on gifts for special occasions?
- What kind of gifts are most popular among young adults in your country?
- Is it better to give a practical gift or something that is purely sentimental?
Now try this cue card
1 minute to prepare, up to 2 minutes to speak, then a band estimate and tips for each criterion.
Practice estimate, not an official IELTS score.