Alright, let’s talk about family—because, let’s face it, they’re the people who drive us crazy but also the ones we can’t live without. If you’re prepping for the IELTS Speaking test, you might get a cue card like “Describe a family member.” Sounds straightforward, right? But how do you make it sound interesting and personal? Let’s break it down with some examples that feel like we’re just chatting over a cup of tea. No robotic stuff here—just real, relatable stories.

The IELTS Speaking Test: Keep It Real

First off, the IELTS Speaking test is basically a conversation. Part 2 is where you get a cue card, a minute to prepare, and then 2 minutes to talk. The key is to keep it personal and engaging. Think of it as telling a story to a friend. Let’s dive into some examples to give you an idea.

Example 1: My Cousin Arjun – The Brother I Never Had

Introduction 
Okay, so let me tell you about my cousin Arjun. He’s not just family—he’s like the brother I never had. We’ve been thick as thieves since we were kids, even though he’s two years older than me.

What have you done together?
Arjun’s the kind of guy who’s always up for an adventure. Remember that time we decided to go on a road trip to the mountains? Yeah, that was his idea. We hiked, got lost (more than once), and even tried cooking our own meals over a campfire. Spoiler: it didn’t go well. But hey, it’s the memories that count, right?

Why do you like this person?
What I love about Arjun is how he’s always got my back. Whether I’m stressing over exams or just having a bad day, he knows exactly how to make me laugh. He’s got this way of turning even the most boring moments into something fun.

Conclusion 
Well, aside from being my partner-in-crime, he’s just a genuinely good person. He’s smart, funny, and always knows how to lift my spirits. Honestly, I don’t know what I’d do without him.

Example 2: My Mom – The Superwoman

Introduction 
Now, let’s talk about my mom. She’s not just a parent—she’s a superhero in disguise. Seriously, I don’t know how she does it. She’s a teacher, a chef, a therapist, and a chauffeur all rolled into one.

What have you done together?
Growing up, my mom was always the one who made everything better. Whether it was a scraped knee or a broken heart, she had this magical way of fixing things. And let’s not forget her cooking—her biryani is legendary.

Why do you like this person?
One of my favorite memories with her is when we went to her hometown last year. She showed me where she grew up, told me stories about her childhood, and even introduced me to her old friends. It was like getting a glimpse into a whole other side of her.

Conclusion 
Well, aside from the fact that she’s basically Wonder Woman, she’s just the most caring person I know. She’s always there to listen, to guide, and to remind me that I’m capable of anything.

Example 3: My Little Brother Aarav – The Little Rockstar

Introduction 
Alright, last but not least, let me tell you about my little brother Aarav. He’s five years younger than me, but don’t let the age gap fool you—he’s got the energy of a tornado and the confidence of a rockstar.

What have you done together?
Aarav’s obsessed with music. He plays the guitar, the piano, and pretty much anything else he can get his hands on. Recently, he decided to teach me how to play the guitar. Let’s just say it’s been… an experience. I’m not exactly a natural, but he’s got the patience of a saint.

Why do you like this person?
What I love about Aarav is how he sees the world. He’s creative, optimistic, and always up for trying something new. Whether it’s learning a new song or coming up with a crazy idea for a school project, he’s always full of enthusiasm.

Conclusion 
Well, aside from the fact that he’s basically my personal entertainment, he’s just a really cool kid. He’s taught me to appreciate the little things in life and to never take myself too seriously.

Follow-Up Questions: Let’s Keep It Going

After you’ve shared your story, the examiner might ask you some follow-up questions. Here’s how you could tackle them:

1. What type of family is yours?
   I come from a nuclear family—just me, my parents, and my little brother. We’re pretty close, and we love spending time together, whether it’s watching movies or going on weekend outings.
2. Why do some children get spoiled at home?
   I think it’s usually because parents give in to every demand without setting boundaries. It’s like, if you never say no, kids start expecting everything to go their way. Balance is key, you know?
3. How much do you think people should be responsible for their parents?
   I think it’s our duty to take care of our parents as they get older. They’ve spent their lives looking after us, so it’s only fair that we return the favor. Whether it’s helping out with chores or just spending time with them, it’s important to show them they’re loved.

Wrapping It Up

Family is where we find our biggest supporters, our loudest cheerleaders, and sometimes, our biggest headaches. But at the end of the day, they’re the ones who make life richer. Whether it’s a cousin like Arjun, a mom who’s basically a superhero, or a little brother who’s a mini rockstar, these are the people who shape who we are.

So, if you’re prepping for the IELTS Speaking test, just think of it as sharing a story. Keep it real, keep it personal, and you’ll do great. And who knows? Maybe it’ll inspire you to call up a family member and tell them how much they mean to you.

Check out other IELTS speaking cue card topics

Describe an invention that is useful in daily life

Describe a crowded place you have been to

Describe a product you bought, but returned

Describe a successful businessperson you know

Describe a successful business person you admire

Describe a time when you were stuck in a traffic