When’s the last time you lost track of time?
Today you’ll learn vocabulary and sample answers for a common IELTS Speaking Part 1 topic – managing time.
We’ll share sample answers and strategies to boost scores for these answers.
Importance of time
Everyone has opinions about punctuality!
It’s highly valued in american culture.
Some people are always early, while some people are constantly rushing in at the last second.
Today we’ll share 5 Band 9 phrases with example sentences, as well as sample Part 1 answers.
#1: Cut it close
This means to leave very little extra time before a deadline or event.
“I almost missed my flight because I cut it close getting to the airport.”
“He always cuts it close when submitting assignments.”
#2: Run behind schedule
Running behind schedule means to be delayed or to be later than planned.
“Public transportation was running behind schedule because of the storm.”
“I’m sorry I’m late. My morning meeting ran behind schedule.”
#3: Right on the dot
This means exactly at the scheduled time.
“The train arrived at 7:00 right on the dot.”
“My grandfather eats dinner at six o’clock right on the dot every day.”
#4: Lose track of time
This phrase means to become unaware of how much time has passed.
“I lost track of time while reading and stayed up until 2 a.m.”
“Whenever I play video games, I completely lose track of time.”
#5: A last-minute scramble
This is a rushed and stressful attempt to finish something just before the deadline.
“Packing for the trip turned into a last-minute scramble.”
“There was a last-minute scramble to prepare for the presentation.”
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Sample Part 1 Answers
Question 1: “Are you usually early or late?”
Sample Answer:
I’m usually early, to be honest. I hate feeling rushed, so I try to leave extra time whenever I go somewhere important. My dad was extremely punctual, so I kind of grew up believing that arriving right on the dot is a sign of respect.
Question 2: “What kinds of things make you late?”
Sample Answer:
Honestly, the biggest reason is probably losing track of time. If I’m focused on work or watching something online, I can completely forget what time it is. Traffic can also throw everything off, especially during rush hour when buses run behind schedule.
Question 3: “Do you think people should always be on time?”
Sample Answer:
For the most part, yes. I think constantly being late can seem disrespectful, especially in professional situations. That said, I also understand that life happens sometimes. Unexpected problems can create a last-minute scramble, so I try not to judge people too harshly.
Takeaway
You now have several options to describe running late.
This variety will boost your vocabulary score.
Practice answering today’s questions with your own answers and use this high-scoring vocabulary.
For all the strategies you need, sign up for 3 Keys IELTS.
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