IELTS Rewind
Speaking Part 22 minutes

Describe a friend from your childhood

By Parth
June 29, 2025
Describe a time you saw children behave badly in public
Cue Card Topic

Describe a friend from your childhood. You should say:

  • Who she/he is
  • When and how you met each other
  • What you often did together
  • And explain what made you like him/her

💡 You have 1 minute to prepare and should speak for 1-2 minutes.

Sample Answer

Who she/he is?

One of my closest childhood friends is Neha, a vibrant and cheerful girl I met in the bustling city of Delhi. We were both around seven years old when our families moved into the same neighborhood. Our initial encounter was at the local park, where we were drawn to each other while playing on the swings. From that moment, an unbreakable bond began to form.

When and how you met each other?

Neha and I met during the summer holidays. Our mothers often chatted while we played, and soon we became inseparable. We would spend countless afternoons exploring the nearby gardens and riding our bicycles down the quiet streets. Those early days were filled with laughter and endless adventures, from climbing trees to playing hide and seek.

What you often did together?

As we grew older, our friendship deepened. We created a small club with other neighborhood kids, where we would organize fun games and competitions. Neha had a knack for storytelling, and we often spent evenings on her terrace, listening to her imaginative tales under the stars. On weekends, we would go to the local ice cream parlor, where we savored our favorite flavors while sharing our dreams and secrets.

What made you like him/her?

What I loved most about Neha was her genuine kindness and the way she always saw the positive side of life. Even when we faced challenges, she would encourage me to keep going. Her infectious laughter and ability to make anyone feel special were qualities that drew me to her. The memories we created together taught me the value of friendship, trust, and support, which are integral to my life even today. Neha remains one of the most significant people in my life, and I cherish the bond we formed during those carefree childhood days.

Follow-up Questions (Part 3)

Do you still keep in touch with your friends from childhood? Why or why not?

Yes, I still keep in touch with my childhood friends, including Neha. We make it a point to catch up whenever possible, whether through phone calls or occasional meet-ups. This connection is important because it allows us to reminisce about our shared experiences and the innocence of our youth. Despite our busy lives, these friendships provide a sense of comfort and nostalgia. They remind me of where I came from and the people who shaped my childhood.

How important is childhood friendship to children?

Childhood friendships are incredibly important for children as they help in developing social skills and emotional intelligence. These early interactions teach kids about trust, empathy, and cooperation. Friends provide a support system during formative years, helping each other navigate the challenges of growing up. Moreover, positive friendships can significantly impact a child's self-esteem and overall happiness, fostering a sense of belonging and security.

What do you think of communicating via social media?

Communicating via social media has both advantages and disadvantages. On one hand, it allows people to stay connected regardless of distance, enabling instant communication and sharing of life events. However, it can also lead to superficial interactions that lack depth. Face-to-face communication is often more meaningful, as it allows for non-verbal cues and emotional connections. While social media can enhance relationships, it should not completely replace traditional forms of communication.

Do you think online communication through social media will replace face-to-face communication?

I don't believe online communication will entirely replace face-to-face interactions. While social media is convenient and often preferred for quick updates, personal connections thrive in real-life interactions. Body language, tone, and emotional nuances are vital elements of communication that are often lost in online conversations. People crave genuine connections, and nothing compares to the warmth of a face-to-face meeting. Hence, I think both forms will coexist in a balanced way.

What’s the difference between having younger friends and older friends?

Having younger friends often brings a sense of energy and freshness into one's life, as they tend to have a different perspective and enthusiasm. They can inspire you to see the world through a more carefree lens. In contrast, older friends usually offer wisdom and experience, providing valuable advice based on their life journeys. The dynamics of these friendships can vary significantly, enriching one’s life through diverse viewpoints and experiences.

Has technology changed people’s friendships? How?

Yes, technology has significantly changed the landscape of friendships. It has made it easier to connect with people globally and maintain relationships over long distances. However, it has also led to a decline in deep, meaningful interactions. Many friendships today may lack the depth that in-person connections foster. While technology facilitates communication, it can sometimes create a sense of isolation as people may choose screens over real-life companionship.

Speaking Part 2 Tips
  • • 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