Birthdays are special occasions that come once a year, but some linger in memory far longer than others. My last birthday was such a day—filled with colour, laughter, and love. Even now, whenever I recall it, I feel the same joy that brightened my heart on that occasion.
The day began early with greetings from my family. My mother woke me with a warm hug and a prayer, while my father presented me with a new wristwatch that sparkled in the morning sun. My younger siblings jumped on my bed, singing an improvised birthday song that made me laugh until my sides ached. The cheerful start set the tone for the rest of the day.
As the sun rose higher, preparations for the party began in earnest. Our sitting room was transformed into a mini hall, decorated with balloons and colourful streamers. A long table was laid with plates, cups, and bottles of soft drinks. The aroma of fried rice, jollof rice, and chicken drifted from the kitchen, making my mouth water even before the guests arrived. My mother worked tirelessly with my aunties, while my siblings arranged chairs and tables in the compound.
By mid-afternoon, the first set of guests began to arrive. Friends from school trooped in, dressed in their best clothes, bearing small gifts wrapped in shiny paper. The compound soon echoed with laughter and chatter. Music from the rented speakers filled the air, and before long, children and even some adults were dancing to the rhythm of popular songs. The atmosphere was one of pure excitement.
The highlight of the celebration was the cutting of the cake. A beautiful chocolate cake, decorated with cream and cherries, sat majestically on the table. Everyone gathered around as I made a wish and blew out the candles. The room erupted with applause, and my friends took turns smearing a little icing on my face in playful mischief. We all laughed heartily as pictures were taken to capture the moment.
Afterwards, the feast began. Plates of steaming rice, meat pies, snacks, and chilled drinks circulated among the guests. The laughter grew louder as friends exchanged jokes and shared stories. Some of my classmates organized games, and prizes were given to winners. The fun seemed endless, and I wished the day would never end.
As the evening approached, the guests slowly dispersed, leaving behind a compound littered with balloons and empty plates. Though the day ended, the joy lingered in my heart. I carefully unwrapped my gifts—books, pens, shirts, and even a pair of shoes—and felt grateful for the love shown to me.
My last birthday celebration was not just about food or gifts; it was about the warmth of family and the joy of friendship. It remains a memory I will always treasure, and I look forward to even greater celebrations in the years to come.
Examiner’s Comment / Guide
- Content (9/10): The essay provides a detailed description of the birthday—preparations, guests, food, activities, and reflection.
- Organization (8/10): Logical flow from morning greetings → preparations → guests → highlights → conclusion.
- Expression (8/10): Creative use of language (“compound echoed with laughter,” “sat majestically on the table”).
- Mechanical Accuracy (7/10): Accurate grammar and punctuation; very readable.
Overall: 32–34/40. This would comfortably score a B2 or A1.