PLAYING PUZZLES

IELTS Speaking Part 2 – Instructions

• You will have 1 minute to think and make notes on the topic.

• The examiner will give you paper and a pencil for note-making.

• Then, you must speak continuously for 1–2 minutes on the topic.

• Usually, this is around 10–12 sentences spoken naturally..

Band 7 Answer

One puzzle I solved recently was a jigsaw puzzle with 500 pieces. It was a picture of a beautiful mountain landscape with a lake and forest in the background. I got it as a gift from a friend during the winter holiday.

At first, it seemed easy, but once I started, I realized it was quite challenging. The sky and the water had very similar colors, so it took a lot of time to find the right pieces. It took me about four days to complete, working on it for a couple of hours each day.

I felt really satisfied when I finished it. I even took a photo of the completed puzzle and framed it. I enjoyed the process because it helped me relax and forget about stress. It also improved my concentration and patience.

Overall, I think puzzles are a great way to spend time and exercise your brain at the same time.

Band 8 Answer

A puzzle I remember solving and really enjoying was a crossword puzzle from a weekend newspaper. I’ve always liked word games, but this particular crossword was especially tricky, filled with clever clues and some difficult vocabulary.

I started working on it on a Saturday morning with a cup of coffee, and it took me about two hours to finish completely. I didn’t use my phone or the internet to help — I challenged myself to solve it using only what I knew. Some clues were straightforward, but others involved wordplay, so I had to really think outside the box.

What I liked most about this experience was the mental workout it gave me. I felt a real sense of accomplishment when I filled in the final square. It was like solving a mystery, and it sharpened my focus and vocabulary at the same time.

To me, puzzles like this are not just fun — they’re a way to stay mentally active, especially in a world where we’re often distracted by screens and fast-paced routines.