Question 12: Describe an interesting animal you’ve encountered. You should say:
– What type of animal was it?
– Where did you encounter it?
– What made it interesting?
– How did you feel about the encounter?
Model answer by Lifestyle Training Centre
I was never particularly fond of dogs growing up. In fact, I always considered myself more of a cat person, preferring their independent nature over the constant attention that dogs seemed to demand. However, my perspective completely changed when I met a Siberian Husky at my friend’s place in Bangalore.
I had visited my friend on a cool evening, as Bangalore’s weather is known to be relatively chilly, which was perfect for meeting a dog like a Husky. My friend had recently adopted a Siberian Husky named Shadow, and I was curious but cautious about how I would feel around him. Huskies are known for their striking appearance, with their thick, double-layered coats and piercing blue eyes that give them a majestic, wolf-like look. I remember feeling a little intimidated at first by his size and energy, but that soon faded as Shadow greeted me with enthusiasm and curiosity.
What truly surprised me was how affectionate and intelligent Shadow was. Unlike the aloof dogs I had encountered in the past, Shadow was friendly, well-trained, and very responsive to commands. He knew several tricks, including “sit,” “stay,” and even “roll over,” all of which he executed effortlessly. His playful nature and the bond he shared with my friend made me realise that my perception of dogs had been quite narrow.
However, I also quickly learned that owning a Siberian Husky is not a simple task. Huskies are bred for colder climates, and despite Bangalore’s generally cool weather, Shadow needed to be kept in air-conditioned rooms most of the time. The maintenance of such a dog, with the constant need for climate control and the high cost of proper care, was something I hadn’t considered before. My friend mentioned that keeping Shadow comfortable, especially during warmer months, was expensive and required a lot of attention to ensure he was in the best health.
Despite these challenges, my encounter with Shadow made me realise that I would love to own a Siberian Husky in the future. The idea of having such a loyal, intelligent, and playful companion is something that now excites me. Of course, I would need to ensure I could provide the right environment for the dog, including an air-conditioned space and the necessary resources to care for such an active breed.
In conclusion, my encounter with Shadow, the Siberian Husky, completely changed my view on dogs. It made me appreciate the companionship and joy they can bring, especially a breed as unique and intelligent as a Husky. While owning one in the future would require careful consideration and investment, I now look forward to the possibility of having a Husky as part of my family.
List of vocabulary used:
- Particularly fond – Especially liking or showing affection for something.
- Independent nature – The quality of being self-reliant and not needing constant attention.
- Perspective – A point of view or attitude towards something.
- Siberian Husky – A breed of dog known for its thick fur, blue or multicoloured eyes, and wolf-like appearance.
- Piercing blue eyes – A vivid description of strikingly intense blue eyes.
- Majestic – Having a grand, impressive, or royal appearance.
- Affectionate – Showing fondness or tenderness.
- Intelligent – Quick to learn and understand.
- Well-trained – Properly taught or disciplined.
- Playful nature – Being lively and full of fun.
- Climate control – Maintaining a specific temperature for comfort or health.
- Maintenance – The process of keeping something in good condition.
- Companion – A pet or person who shares experiences and provides company.
Phrases and Idioms:
- Never particularly fond of – A phrase indicating a lack of strong liking for something.
- Constant attention – Continuous care or focus.
- Completely changed my perspective – A phrase highlighting a significant shift in attitude or opinion.
- Striking appearance – A phrase used to describe someone or something that is remarkably noticeable.
- Faded as Shadow greeted me with enthusiasm – A vivid way of describing how initial fears diminished with a positive interaction.
- Bond he shared with my friend – Refers to the strong connection between the dog and its owner.
- Quite narrow – Limited or restricted in scope.
- Not a simple task – A phrase implying that something is challenging or requires effort.
- Look forward to the possibility – Expressing excitement about a potential future event.
- Part of my family – A phrase indicating emotional closeness and inclusion.
IELTS Speaking Task Topics
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Names

Learn about the importance of names and their cultural significance.
Study / Job

Discuss various aspects of studying and working in different fields.
Hometown

Explore the charm of your hometown and its unique features.
Accomodation

Understand various types of accommodation and living situations.
Weather

Learn about how weather influences daily life and activities.
Time

Discuss the concept of time, its importance, and time management.
Television

Talk about the role of television in modern entertainment.
Museum

Discuss the cultural importance of museums and historical exhibits.
Holidays

Explore the significance of holidays and different celebrations.
Films

Learn about the impact of films on culture and society.
Leisure Time

Discuss how leisure activities impact personal well-being.
Sport

Talk about the role of sports in health, entertainment, and culture.
Vegetables and Fruits

Discuss the health benefits and importance of fresh produce.
Maths

Explore the role of mathematics in various aspects of life.
Sky

Discuss the beauty and scientific significance of the sky.
Clothes&Fashion

Explore how clothing reflects culture and personal expression.
Weekend

Discuss the importance of weekends and ways people relax.
Reading

Learn about the importance of reading and various reading habits.
Sleep

Explore how sleep impacts physical and mental well-being.
Trees&Plants

Discuss the environmental and health benefits of plants.
Newspaper

Discuss the evolving role of newspapers in the digital age.
Texting

Explore the role of text messaging in modern communication.
Memorising

Learn techniques for improving memory and memorization.
Travelling

Discuss the importance and impact of traveling in modern society.
Communication

Explore the modes and significance of communicating well
Letter&Email

Explore the differences and significance of letters vs. emails.
Swimming

Discuss the benefits of swimming for health and fitness.
Snacks

Explore the role of snacks in daily nutrition and lifestyle.
Photography

Discuss photography’s cultural and artistic significance.
Help

Talk about the importance of offering and receiving help.
History

Discuss historical events and their impact on modern society.
Handwriting

Explore the significance of handwriting in education and culture.
Music

Learn about the influence of music on emotions and society.
Colours

Discuss how colours affect perception and mood.
Teachers

Explore the role of teachers in shaping students’ futures.
Being Alone

Talk about the experience and benefits of spending time alone.
Teamwork

Learn the importance of teamwork in professional and social contexts.
Countryside & City

Explore the charm and benefits of living in the countryside.
Social Media

Discuss the impact of social media on society and relationships.
Friends

Explore the importance of friendships in life.
Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Talk about the future of AI and its role in society.
Climate Change

Discuss the causes and consequences of climate change.
Transportation

Explore different modes of transportation in your area.
Sustainable Transportation

Explore ways to make transportation more environmentally friendly.
Space Exploration

Learn about the latest advancements in space exploration.
Shopping

Explore how shopping influences culture and the economy.
Modern Technology

Discuss how modern technology is reshaping society.
Technology

Learn about the role of technology in everyday life.
Sustainable Living

Explore ways to live sustainably for the future of the planet.
Globalisation

Learn about the effects of globalisation on society and economies.
Global Warming

Discuss the causes, effects, and solutions to global warming.
Gender Equality

Explore the importance of gender equality in modern society.
Health and Fitness

Discuss the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Renewable Energy

Learn about renewable energy sources and their impact on the environment.
Cultural Traditions in Kerala

Explore the unique cultural traditions of Kerala, your hometown.
Cultural Traditions in Your Country

Learn about the cultural traditions in your country.
Education System

Discuss the education system in your country and its effectiveness.
Traditional Cuisine

Explore the significance of traditional cuisines in your culture.
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