IELTS Speaking 2025 Part 1: Gifts

1. Do you like to choose gifts to give someone?

• Useful expressions:
  • “I love picking out gifts because…”
  • “I try to find something meaningful instead of just buying anything random…”
  • “It makes me happy when I see the person’s reaction…”
• Grammar structure: Present Simple for general habits and preferences.
• Sample answer:
  Yes, I love picking out gifts because it’s a way to show appreciation and make someone feel special. I try to find something meaningful instead of just buying anything random. For example, if I know someone loves reading, I’ll choose a book I think they’ll enjoy. It makes me happy when I see the person’s reaction after receiving my gift because it shows that I put thought into it.

2. When do you often give gifts to someone?

• Useful expressions:
  • “I usually give gifts on special occasions such as…”
  • “Sometimes, I give gifts unexpectedly to brighten someone’s day…”
  • “I believe that small surprises can make people happy…”
• Grammar structure: Present Simple for common habits and occasional Present Perfect for past experiences.
• Sample answer:
  I usually give gifts on special occasions such as birthdays, weddings, and holidays like Christmas and Lunar New Year. Sometimes, I give gifts unexpectedly to brighten someone’s day, like bringing a small souvenir from a trip or writing a heartfelt note. I believe that small surprises can make people happy and strengthen relationships.

3. Have you ever given anyone handmade gifts?

• Useful expressions:
  • “I think handmade gifts are more special because…”
  • “Once, I made a scrapbook for my friend’s birthday, and they loved it because…”
  • “Even though handmade gifts take more time, they show that…”
• Grammar structure: Present Perfect for past experiences and Past Simple for specific events.
• Sample answer:
  Yes, I think handmade gifts are more special because they show effort and personal touch. Once, I made a scrapbook for my friend’s birthday, and they loved it because it was filled with our favorite memories and photos. Even though handmade gifts take more time, they show that you truly care about the person, and they often become meaningful keepsakes.

4. Do you prefer giving luxury gifts or gifts made by hand?

• Useful expressions:
  • “It depends on the person and the occasion because…”
  • “Luxury gifts are nice, but handmade gifts feel more personal because…”
  • “What matters most is that the gift is thoughtful and suits the person…”
• Grammar structure: Present Simple for general opinions and Conditional (would prefer) for preferences.
• Sample answer:
  It depends on the person and the occasion. For example, if I’m giving a gift to my parents, I might buy something useful and high-quality, like a nice watch or a handbag. On the other hand, for close friends, I often prefer handmade gifts because they feel more personal and unique. Luxury gifts are nice, but handmade gifts feel more personal because they show creativity and effort. What matters most is that the gift is thoughtful and suits the person receiving it.