Describe a Talk You Gave to a Group of People - IELTS Cue Card

You should say:

Who you gave the talk to

What the talk was about

Why you gave the talk

And explain how you felt about the talk

Introduction

Public speaking can be nerve-wracking for many, but sometimes the right topic, audience, and motivation make it a fulfilling experience. One such moment for me was when I gave a talk to a group of high school students on the topic of mental health awareness. It wasn’t just another presentation—it felt like a meaningful exchange that left a lasting impact, both on the audience and on me.

Who You Gave the Talk To

The talk was given to a group of around 50 students from a local high school in my city. They were in their final year, preparing not only for exams but also for adult life, which can be overwhelming. Most of them were between 16 and 18 years old, and the event was part of a career and wellness week organized by the school.

The environment was quite friendly and informal. I was invited as a former alumnus, which made the experience even more special. It felt like coming full circle.

What the Talk Was About

The core theme of my talk was mental health awareness among teenagers. I covered topics such as:

• Recognizing early signs of anxiety and depression

• The importance of talking openly about emotions

• How to seek help from professionals and peers

• Simple coping strategies like journaling, mindfulness, and time management

I also shared some personal anecdotes from my own high school experience—times when I had felt overwhelmed but didn’t know how to express it. This personal touch helped build a genuine connection with the students.

Why You Gave the Talk

I gave the talk because I genuinely believe that mental health is just as important as physical health, especially during the teenage years when emotions can be intense and confusing.

A teacher who knew I was studying psychology at university reached out and suggested I speak to the students. I saw it as an opportunity not only to share what I’ve learned academically but also to advocate for something I feel strongly about.

Moreover, I remember feeling quite lost during my own teenage years, and I wish someone had spoken to us about these issues back then. That thought really motivated me to accept the invitation.

How You Felt About the Talk

To be honest, I was nervous before the talk began. My hands were a bit shaky, and I rehearsed my opening lines multiple times in my head. But once I started speaking and saw nodding heads and engaged eyes, the nerves slowly melted away.

The students asked thoughtful questions, some even shared their own experiences, and the whole session turned into a lively discussion rather than a one-way lecture. That interaction made me feel both proud and emotional.

After the talk, a few students came up to me and said it helped them feel seen and understood. One even mentioned he would talk to the school counselor for the first time. That moment alone made all the preparation worth it.