People Remember Special Gifts or Presents they Receive – IELTS Writing Task 2

The Secret to Excelling in IELTS Writing Task 2: Analyzing the Topic “People Remember Special Gifts or Presents they Receive”

One of the best ways to succeed in IELTS Writing Task 2 is by honing your essay-writing skills through regular practice with various essay topics, such as “People Remember Special Gifts or Presents they Receive”. This topic falls under the Direct Question Essay category, which usually involves answering two related questions. However, this question asks only one direct question, requiring you to carefully analyze it, identify what is being asked, and respond with clarity and strong arguments supported by examples.

In this blog, we’ll explore how to approach this Direct Question Essay, “People Remember Special Gifts or Presents they Receive”, with sample answers for Band 7, Band 8, and Band 9. To help you practice, you can explore more IELTS Writing Task 2 practice tests as well.

Question:

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Some people say that people remember special gifts or presents that they receive. Why do you think that is?
Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.
You should write at least 250 words.

Outline for the Essay:

• Type of Essay: Direct Question Essay
• Structure Breakdown:
  • Introduction: Briefly explain the question in one or two sentences. Mention what you will discuss in the body paragraphs.
  • Body Paragraph 1: Discuss the first set of points with examples.
  • Body Paragraph 2: Present the next main point and explain with examples.
  • Conclusion: Summarize the main points discussed in the essay.

Band 7 Sample Answer: People Remember Special Gifts or Presents They Receive

Gifts are a common part of life, given on occasions like birthdays, holidays, and milestones. While we receive many presents, only a few stand out in our memory because they were given by someone special or received during a meaningful moment.

For example, I vividly recall receiving a wristwatch after excelling in my final board exams. The effort I put into my studies was acknowledged, and this recognition from my parents motivates me to continue striving for success. Even when I’m facing challenges, this watch reminds me of their support and keeps me connected to them, especially when they’re far away.

Additionally, some gifts serve as lasting reminders of cherished relationships. For instance, I received a bicycle from my college roommates for my birthday in my final year. Despite them living in different parts of the world now, the bike keeps me connected to them and reminds me of the great times we shared.

In conclusion, gifts carry significant emotional value, and they remind us of important moments and people in our lives. (245 words)

Vocabulary

• Pursue (Verb): to chase or follow something, e.g., He decided to pursue a career in content marketing.
• Recall (Verb): to bring to mind, e.g., We need to recall the correct answer to win.
• Recognition (Noun): public appreciation for achievements, e.g., Quarterly recognition of employees boosts motivation.
• Motivates (Verb): to encourage behavior, e.g., Her smile motivates me to work harder.
• Setback (Noun): an obstacle or delay, e.g., The operation had a setback.
• Recipients (Noun): people who receive something, e.g., The award recipients gave speeches.

Band 8 Sample Answer: People Remember Special Gifts or Presents They Receive

Throughout our lives, we receive numerous gifts, but some stand out due to their sentimental value and personal meaning.

Gifts are often a way to express affection and care. For instance, I remember receiving a fountain pen from my grandfather when I got admitted to college. Though I don’t use it often, I carry it with me during every important exam as it feels like his blessing.

Moreover, presents given for achieving something remarkable are cherished for years. For example, in school, teachers rewarded us with chocolates and handwritten notes for excelling in studies. These notes, which I still keep, continue to inspire me to perform well.

Additionally, gifts from loved ones hold a special place in our hearts. After earning some money in high school, I bought a saree for my mother and a shirt for my father. The joy on their faces was unforgettable, and they still treasure these gifts as their most meaningful ones.

In conclusion, gifts symbolize love, gratitude, and memorable experiences. Giving and receiving presents help reinforce emotional connections and express heartfelt emotions. (288 words)

Vocabulary

• Affection (Noun): a feeling of fondness, e.g., His affection for his family was evident.
• Concern (Noun): care or worry, e.g., Her concern for his health was noticeable.
• Commendably (Adverb): in a praiseworthy manner, e.g., She handled the situation commendably.
• Cherish (Verb): to hold dear, e.g., He cherishes the memories of his childhood.
• Overwhelmed (Verb): to be emotionally affected, e.g., She was overwhelmed with happiness.
• Joyous (Adjective): full of happiness, e.g., The joyous event was celebrated by all.
• Embrace (Noun): a hug, e.g., They shared a warm embrace.

Band 9 Sample Answer: People Remember Special Gifts or Presents They Receive

The idea that people remember certain gifts is deeply rooted in emotional and psychological factors, including the sentimental value, the thought behind the gift, and the memories associated with it. I will explore these factors further in this essay.

Unique gifts often carry significant meaning because they are tied to personal experiences or memories. For example, I received my first bicycle from my grandparents after coming first in class. Though I no longer use it, it remains in my room as a reminder of their love and encouragement. Similarly, when someone gives a present that aligns with your interests, it reflects a strong emotional connection. For instance, a close friend gifted me a limited edition book, knowing my love for reading. Her thoughtfulness deeply moved me.

Furthermore, gifts exchanged during special moments like birthdays, holidays, or anniversaries are remembered because they are linked to joyous occasions. For example, I still recall the excitement when I gave my friend a concert ticket to see her idol, Taylor Swift.

In conclusion, the reason people remember certain gifts is because of their emotional significance, the effort behind choosing them, and the special memories they create. These gifts leave lasting impressions that are cherished forever. (291 words)

Vocabulary

• Notion (Noun): an idea or belief, e.g., He had a notion that hard work always pays off.
• Consequential (Adjective): significant, e.g., The decision had a consequential impact on the company.
• Associations (Noun): connections, e.g., There were many associations between the two events.
• Outgrown (Verb): to become too large for something, e.g., The child had outgrown his toys.
• Meaningful (Adjective): significant, e.g., The conversation was deeply meaningful to her.
• Sentimental (Adjective): filled with emotion, e.g., The photo album had a strong sentimental value.
• Everlasting (Adjective): lasting forever, e.g., The impact of her kindness had an everlasting effect on me.

IELTS Writing Task 2 Connectors Used in the Sample Answers

Connectors are essential in IELTS Writing Task 2 to ensure coherence and a high band score. Here are some connectors used in the sample answers for the topic “People Remember Special Gifts or Presents They Receive”:

• First of all
• For example
• Also
• Again
• In conclusion
• To begin with
• Additionally
• For instance
• Moreover
• So
• Still
• To conclude
• First and foremost
• Further
• Therefore
• Above all
• In summary

Gifts carry emotional weight and significance because they represent moments of affection, thoughtfulness, and love from the giver, leaving lasting memories that stay with us for a lifetime