Why templates matter (and how they fail)
Band 7+ candidates use repeatable structures so they never freeze when the cue card appears. However, memorized stories that ignore the prompt trigger examiner warnings. The solution: build modular prompts you can fill with any idea in under 60 seconds.
"I stopped hunting for the perfect story. Instead, I recycle the same intro + timeline + reflection framework." — Band 7.5 candidate
Template 1: Story Arc (Narrative topics)
Best for prompts like "Describe a memorable trip" or "Talk about a person who inspired you."
1. Hook: "I want to share ____ because _____."
2. Background: "This happened in [time/location]."
3. Build-up: "At first... then... eventually..."
4. Highlight: "The most vivid part was _____."
5. Reflection: "It taught me that _____."
Practice move
List three travel destinations, three people, and three events. Combine them randomly and run the Story Arc out loud. This trains spontaneity without rewriting the structure each time.
Template 2: Problem → Solution → Lesson (Processes and challenges)
Ideal for prompts such as "Describe a time you solved a problem" or "Describe something difficult you accomplished."
- Problem: outline the barrier in one sentence.
- Solution: describe the steps you took (use sequencing language: firstly, meanwhile, afterwards).
- Lesson: explain what you learned or how others reacted.
Use dynamic verbs ("tweaked", "experimented", "reframed") to show initiative. End with a band-boosting reflection such as "Since then, I always..."
Template 3: Four Corners (Objects, books, tools)
1. Appearance → Describe the physical look/brand.
2. Function → Explain what it does.
3. Story → When/how you got it.
4. Impact → Why it matters or how it changed you.
This layout keeps you coherent even if the object is simple (e.g., a notebook). Sprinkle in sensory adjectives ("sleek, matte-black cover") to avoid sounding generic.
Timing blueprint
- 0–10 seconds: Intro + paraphrase the prompt.
- 10–30 seconds: Background and setup using your chosen template.
- 30–50 seconds: Main details with linking phrases ("what's more", "on top of that").
- 50–60 seconds: Reflection + future intention.
Record yourself and check the timestamps. If you rush, add descriptive phrases; if you run long, trim the background.
Vocabulary bank for fillers
- "What strikes me most is..."
- "Initially, I wasn't sure..."
- "Looking back, I realize..."
- "Another remarkable aspect was..."
These phrases buy seconds while sounding natural. Pair them with intonation changes to avoid monotony.
Final checklist before test day
- Memorize the three core templates but populate them with fresh examples weekly.
- Build a "story parts" list (people, places, lessons) in your notes app.
- Practice with a timer + recording app three times per week.
- Review transcripts to replace repetitive vocabulary with stronger synonyms.
Flexible templates = confidence under pressure. Use them to walk into Part 2 with a plan, then let your personality fill the details.