Describe a Talk You Gave to a Group of People

Describe a talk you gave to a group of people.
You should say:
- When and to whom you gave the speech?
- What the speech was about?
- Why you gave the speech?
- How you felt about it?
💡 You have 1 minute to prepare and should speak for 1-2 minutes.
🚀 FREE IELTS Cue Cards Practice - Get Band 7+ in 2 Weeks!
Practice this exact topic with instant AI feedback - completely FREE!
Sample Answer
I would like to talk about a speech I gave during my college days. It happened about two years ago when I was in my second year. The talk was given to my classmates and a few professors during a college seminar.
When and to whom?
The seminar was organized by my college, and my teacher selected me to give a short talk. So I had to stand in front of around 50 people, including my classmates and faculty members. At first, I felt very nervous because it was the first time I was speaking to such a big group.
What the speech was about?
My talk was about the importance of time management for students. I spoke about how we can plan our daily schedule, avoid distractions, and use our time effectively for both studies and hobbies. I also shared some simple tips, like making a to-do list, setting deadlines, and avoiding procrastination.
Why I gave the speech?
The main reason I gave this speech was because my teacher believed I was good at expressing ideas, and she wanted me to motivate my classmates. Another reason was that I had personally faced time management problems before, and I wanted to share how I overcame them.
How I felt about it
At the beginning, I was very anxious and my hands were even shaking a little. But once I started speaking and saw my friends nodding and smiling, I gained confidence. By the end, I actually enjoyed the experience. After the speech, many of my classmates appreciated me and some even asked for more tips. That made me feel proud and happy.
Conclusion
So, this was a memorable talk I gave. It not only improved my confidence but also taught me that public speaking can be enjoyable if you prepare well and speak from your own experience.
Follow-up Questions (Part 3)
Why is public speaking important in today’s world?
Public speaking builds confidence, improves communication skills, and helps convey ideas effectively. In both professional and personal life, being able to express oneself clearly can open doors to leadership opportunities and meaningful connections.
How can someone overcome the fear of speaking in front of an audience?
Practice is key. Preparing thoroughly, rehearsing in front of friends or a mirror, and starting with smaller groups can reduce anxiety. Breathing exercises and positive visualization before stepping on stage also help calm nerves.
Do you think schools should teach public speaking as a subject?
Absolutely. Introducing public speaking early helps students become confident communicators. It also enhances critical thinking, organization of ideas, and the ability to present arguments logically—skills valuable in almost every career.
How does technology influence the way people give speeches today?
Technology has made speeches more interactive and visually engaging. Tools like PowerPoint, videos, and virtual platforms allow speakers to reach global audiences and keep listeners interested, even when presenting online.
Can a good speech really change people’s opinions or behavior?
Yes, a powerful speech can inspire action and shift perspectives. Historical examples like Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” show how words can influence social change. Even in daily life, a heartfelt talk can motivate someone to adopt healthier habits or think differently.
- • Use the 1-minute preparation time to make notes and organize your thoughts
- • Speak for the full 1-2 minutes - don't stop too early
- • Use past tense when describing experiences or events
- • Include specific details and examples to make your answer interesting
- • Practice transitions between different points in your answer
- • Stay calm if you can't think of a perfect example - any relevant story works
Related Cue Cards
More Speaking Part 2 practice topics