Wednesday, 8 October 2025

Respond to a Situation and Summarize Group Discussion

Respond to a Situation and Summarize Group Discussion — updated for August 2025 format, along with sample model answers, structure, and tips to get a high score.


Task 1: Respond to a Situation

Structure (use this for every situation)

1.      Opening: Greet or acknowledge the situation naturally.

2.      Paraphrase: Briefly restate what happened or what is expected.

3.      Response: Give your action, suggestion, or explanation clearly.

4.      Closing: End politely or positively.

Time: 10 sec prep → 40 sec to speak.


Sample 1 – Apology Situation

Prompt:
You borrowed your friend’s book but accidentally spilled water on it. Call your friend and explain what happened.

Sample Answer:

Hi [Friend’s name], I’m really sorry, but I accidentally spilled water on your book last night. I was reading it on the table and didn’t notice the glass tipping over. I’ve already dried it as best as I can, and I’ll buy you a new copy or replace it right away. I feel bad about it and hope you understand.

Why it scores well:

  • Clear context, apology, and solution.
  • Natural, polite tone and good fluency.

Sample 2 – Workplace Suggestion

Prompt:
Your manager wants ideas to improve teamwork in your office. Suggest one idea.

Sample Answer:

Thanks for asking. I think one effective way to improve teamwork is to organize a short team-building session every month. We can have group activities or small projects that mix people from different departments. It would help employees communicate better and understand each other’s roles.

Tips:
Keep your suggestion realistic and positive.
Use linking phrases like one good idea could be…, this would help to….


Sample 3 – Complaint Response

Prompt:
A customer complains that the food they received was cold. You are the restaurant staff. Respond politely.

Sample Answer:

I’m really sorry to hear that, sir. Thank you for bringing it to our attention. I’ll replace your meal with a freshly prepared one right away, and I’ll make sure it’s served hot this time. We truly value your feedback and apologize for the inconvenience.

Why it’s good:

  • Polite tone, empathy, clear solution, professional closing.

Task 2: Summarize Group Discussion

Structure

1.      Introduction: Mention what the discussion was about.

2.      Speaker 1’s View: Summarize key idea.

3.      Speaker 2’s View: Summarize contrasting/supporting idea.

4.      (Optional) Speaker 3’s View: Add if time allows.

5.      Conclusion: State final opinion or overall summary.

Time: 3-min audio → 10 sec prep → 2 min speaking.


Sample 1 – Discussion on Online Learning

Audio Summary (you’d hear something like this):
Three people discuss online learning.

  • Speaker 1 says online education provides flexibility and saves time.
  • Speaker 2 argues it lacks face-to-face interaction and reduces motivation.
  • Speaker 3 suggests a hybrid approach combining both methods.

Sample Answer:

The discussion was about the advantages and disadvantages of online learning. The first speaker mentioned that online education offers great flexibility and saves both time and travel expenses. However, the second speaker disagreed, saying that it reduces student motivation and the lack of physical interaction affects learning quality. The third speaker concluded that a balanced or hybrid system would be the most effective, combining the flexibility of online classes with the personal connection of traditional classrooms.

Why it’s good:

  • Balanced summary, uses linking words, clear pronunciation.

Sample 2 – Discussion on Electric Vehicles

Audio Summary (typical content):

  • Speaker 1 supports electric vehicles for being eco-friendly.
  • Speaker 2 worries about cost and battery disposal.
  • Speaker 3 emphasizes need for government support.

Sample Answer:

The speakers discussed the growing popularity of electric vehicles. One participant supported them because they are environmentally friendly and help reduce pollution. Another pointed out that electric cars are still expensive and that battery waste could harm the environment. The third speaker said the government should offer subsidies and improve charging infrastructure to encourage people to buy them. Overall, the discussion highlighted both the potential benefits and current challenges of electric vehicles.


Sample 3 – Discussion on Social Media Impact

Sample Answer:

The discussion focused on how social media influences young people. One speaker said it helps them stay connected and informed. Another speaker argued that overuse leads to addiction and anxiety. A third person mentioned that it depends on how individuals use it and suggested setting time limits. In conclusion, the speakers agreed that social media can be beneficial if used responsibly.


General Tips for High Score (for both new tasks)

1.      Note key words while listening or reading (don’t try to write full sentences).

2.      Use transition phrases: First of all, On the other hand, In conclusion, etc.

3.      Speak clearly and steadily — don’t rush.

4.      Avoid filler words (umm, like, you know).

5.      End with a confident final line — e.g., Overall, that was the main idea of the discussion.

 

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