Books have always been a popular topic in IELTS Speaking tests, particularly in Part 2. As someone who enjoys describe a piece of poetry you like, I understand the importance of expressing our literary interests effectively.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview Questions
Common questions you may encounter:
- Do you enjoy reading books?
- What kinds of books do you prefer?
- How often do you read?
- Do you prefer physical books or e-books?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I’m quite passionate about reading. I typically immerse myself in books for at least an hour daily. While I appreciate both formats, I have a particular fondness for physical books because they offer a more tangible and engaging experience.”
IELTS candidate discussing reading habits with examiner
Part 2: Cue Card
Describe a famous book you have read
You should say:
- What the book is
- When you read it
- What it is about
- And explain why you think it is famous
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
Similar to those who describe a memorable book you read as a child, I’d like to talk about “1984” by George Orwell.
“I first encountered this remarkable novel during my final year of high school. What particularly struck me about this dystopian masterpiece was its chilling portrayal of a totalitarian society. The story revolves around Winston Smith, who lives in a world of constant surveillance and thought control.
The narrative brilliantly explores themes of privacy, truth, and political manipulation. What makes it particularly compelling is how many of its predictions about surveillance and privacy invasion have become eerily relevant in our modern digital age.
The book’s enduring fame stems from its profound influence on political discourse and popular culture. Terms like ‘Big Brother’ and ‘thoughtcrime’ have become part of our everyday vocabulary. Its impact on literature and society cannot be overstated, and its warnings about totalitarianism continue to resonate with readers worldwide.”
IELTS candidate describing 1984 novel during speaking test
Sample Answer (Band 6-7):
“I want to talk about ‘1984’ by George Orwell. I read this book last year because many people recommended it. The story is about a man named Winston who lives in a strict society where the government controls everything. The government watches people all the time and tells them what to think.
The book is famous because it shows how dangerous it can be when governments have too much power. Many people still read it today because some things in the book are similar to real life, like cameras watching people everywhere.”
Part 3: Discussion Questions
For those interested in describe a historical figure you would like to learn more about, these questions often explore deeper themes:
Q: How has digital technology changed reading habits?
A (Band 8-9): “Digital technology has fundamentally transformed our reading patterns. While it has enhanced accessibility and convenience, it has also potentially diminished our attention spans. Research suggests that screen-based reading often leads to more skimming and less deep comprehension.”
Key Vocabulary and Phrases
- To delve into (phrasal verb) /delv ɪnˈtuː/ – to examine something thoroughly
- Thought-provoking (adj) /ˈθɔːt prəˌvoʊkɪŋ/ – stimulating careful consideration
- To resonate with (phrase) /ˈrezəneɪt wɪð/ – to affect people in a meaningful way
- Literary masterpiece (noun phrase) /ˈlɪtəreri ˈmæstərpiːs/ – an outstanding work of literature
Examiner’s Tips
- Structure your response using clear paragraphs
- Use specific examples to support your points
- Demonstrate range in vocabulary and grammar
- Maintain natural fluency and coherence
- Show critical thinking in Part 3 responses
Remember, just as exploring describe a nature park you’d like to explore requires detailed description, discussing books needs similar attention to detail and structure.
