When discussing creativity in IELTS Speaking, candidates often encounter questions about innovative individuals. This topic frequently appears in both recent and past IELTS examinations, making it essential to prepare thoroughly.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview Questions
Common questions in this section include:
- Do you consider yourself creative?
- What types of creative activities do you enjoy?
- How important is creativity in your field of study/work?
Similar to describe an art form you would like to learn, these questions require personal reflection and specific examples.
Part 2: Cue Card
Task Card
Describe a person you think is very creative
You should say:
- Who this person is
- How you know them
- What they do
- And explain why you think they are creative
Sample Answer (Band 8-9)
“I’d like to talk about my former university professor, Dr. Sarah Chen, who epitomizes creativity in both her teaching and research. I first met her during my sophomore year when she was teaching Advanced Digital Design.
What makes her exceptionally creative is her innovative approach to problem-solving. For instance, she pioneered a unique teaching method that combines traditional lectures with immersive virtual reality experiences. This groundbreaking approach has revolutionized how students learn complex concepts.
Like describe a hobby you picked up during your free time, her creative pursuits extend beyond her primary profession. She’s also an accomplished digital artist who seamlessly integrates technology and art in her work.
Follow-up Questions
- Has this person influenced your creativity?
- What impact has their creativity had on others?
Part 3: Discussion
Question 1: How can schools foster creativity in students?
Band 8-9 Response:
“Schools can nurture creativity by implementing project-based learning and providing students with autonomous learning opportunities. For example, instead of traditional assignments, students could be encouraged to devise innovative solutions to real-world problems, similar to describe a time when you received a gift that surprised you, where unexpected approaches often yield the best results.”
Question 2: Do you think creativity is more important now than in the past?
Band 8-9 Response:
“In today’s rapidly evolving world, creativity has become increasingly paramount. With artificial intelligence and automation transforming traditional industries, the ability to think innovatively and generate unique solutions is more valuable than ever. This shift has fundamentally altered the job market, making creative thinking an essential skill rather than just a desirable trait.”
IELTS examiner and candidate discussing creativity in modern context
Key Vocabulary and Expressions
- Epitomize /ɪˈpɪtəmaɪz/ (v): to be a perfect example of something
- Groundbreaking /ˈɡraʊnd.breɪ.kɪŋ/ (adj): innovative; pioneering
- Seamlessly /ˈsiːm.ləs.li/ (adv): smoothly and continuously
- Pioneer /ˌpaɪəˈnɪər/ (v): to be the first to develop or use something new
Examiner’s Tips
- Use specific examples to illustrate creativity
- Incorporate advanced vocabulary naturally
- Develop ideas fully with supporting details
- Maintain coherent structure in longer answers
- Link ideas using appropriate discourse markers
Like describe a time when you met someone you look up to, your description should focus on what makes this person truly remarkable and influential.
