A Time You Helped a Friend

🗂️ Part 2 – Cue Card

🗣️ Sample Answer

One time I helped a friend was during our final semester at university, when my best friend Ali was struggling to complete his project presentation. He had been dealing with a family emergency and fell behind on his research and slide preparation. Since we were in the same course, I understood how demanding the deadline was.

I offered to help him by proofreading his work, finding references, and even creating a few slides for his presentation. We spent several evenings together working in the library and on Zoom, making sure everything was completed on time. I also helped him rehearse so he could feel confident during the presentation.

Ali was very grateful. He thanked me repeatedly and even treated me to lunch after the semester ended. I felt really happy that I could support a friend in need. It also strengthened our friendship and reminded me that small efforts can make a big difference when someone is going through a hard time.

🔁 Part 3: Follow-Up Questions

1. Why is it important to help friends?
Helping friends builds trust and emotional connection. It shows that we care and are willing to support them during tough times. This mutual support strengthens and deepens relationships, making them more meaningful.

2. In what ways can friends help each other?
Friends can offer emotional support, practical help, or advice when needed. Whether it’s assisting with studies, offering encouragement, or just being there to listen, all forms of help are valuable. The key is to be available and understanding.

3. Do people today have less time to help others compared to the past?
Yes, modern life is busier with work, studies, and technology occupying most of our time. However, people can still make time for others if they prioritise relationships. Even small gestures, such as sending a message or making a call, can show care.

4. How can schools encourage students to help one another?
Schools can organize group activities or community service projects that promote cooperation. Teachers can reward teamwork and positive behaviour. When helping becomes part of the culture, students naturally learn its value.

5. Is it more common for young people or older people to help their friends?
Both help in different ways. Young people may assist with schoolwork or provide emotional support, while older people may offer advice or financial assistance. The willingness to help depends more on personality than age.

6. Can helping a friend ever create problems?
Yes, if it leads to overdependence or if one friend feels taken for granted. It’s important to set healthy boundaries. Helping should come from care, not from pressure or guilt.

7. Do cultural values influence how people help others?
Absolutely. In many Asian cultures, helping others is considered a social and moral duty. In Western cultures, individualism is stronger, but people still help when they can. Cultural background shapes how people express and receive help.

8. How can technology help us support our friends better?
Technology allows instant communication and remote support. Video calls, messaging, and shared documents make it easier to help, especially during emergencies or long-distance situations. It also allows emotional support through social platforms.

9. Should people expect something in return when they help a friend?
Ideally, no. True friendship is based on kindness and mutual understanding, not transactions. Expecting a return may turn genuine help into a favor that feels like a debt.

10. How do people feel when they help someone successfully?
They often feel a sense of pride and emotional satisfaction. Helping others improves self-esteem and creates a sense of purpose. It also encourages them to be kinder in the future.

Top 10 Topic Vocabulary – A Time You Helped a Friend