The IELTS Speaking test is an integral part of the IELTS exam, divided into three parts: Part 1 (Introduction and Interview), Part 2 (Long Turn), and Part 3 (Two-way Discussion). An IELTS Speaking Examiner will evaluate your fluency, coherence, lexical resource, grammatical range, accuracy, and pronunciation. One recurring theme in the speaking test is describing adventurous individuals, often tasked in Part 2. This theme also bridges to questions in Part 1 and Part 3 about risk-taking, adventurous activities, and personal experiences.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, examiners may ask about your personal experiences and preferences. Here are typical questions and a sample answer to help you prepare:
Common Questions
- Do you enjoy adventures?
- Can you describe an adventure you had recently?
- What types of adventures are popular in your country?
Sample Question & Model Answer
Question: “Do you enjoy adventures?”
Answer: “Absolutely! I love the thrill and excitement that adventures bring. Whether it’s hiking up a challenging mountain or exploring a new city, the sense of discovery and achievement is incredibly rewarding. I believe that adventures push my limits and help me grow as an individual.”
Part 2: Long Turn
In Part 2, you are given a cue card and a minute to prepare. You must speak for 1-2 minutes on the topic. The cue card might look like this:
Cue Card
Describe A Person Who Is Very Adventurous. You should say:
- Who this person is
- How you know this person
- What this person does that is adventurous
- Explain why you think this person is very adventurous.
Model Answer
One of the most adventurous individuals I know is my friend, John Carter. I’ve known John since high school, and we’ve always been close. What distinguishes John from others is his unquenchable thirst for adventure.
John is an avid mountaineer and rock climber, always seeking out the toughest cliffs and highest peaks. In the past year alone, he’s climbed Mount Kilimanjaro and ventured into the Amazon Rainforest. John’s adventures aren’t just physical; he is also a courageous skydiver and scuba diver.
What makes John truly extraordinary is his fearless attitude. He never shies away from challenges, whether it’s navigating treacherous terrains or experimenting with unconventional pursuits like bungee jumping. His enthusiasm for adventure has a contagious effect, inspiring those around him to step out of their comfort zones.
In essence, John’s daring spirit and reluctance to live a conventional life make him one of the most adventurous persons I’ve ever encountered.
John taking a leap from a cliff
Follow-up Questions
- Why do some people enjoy adventurous activities more than others?
- People have different personalities and levels of risk tolerance. Some individuals find adventure exhilarating because it offers a break from everyday routines and challenges their abilities.
- Is being adventurous beneficial?
- Absolutely! Engaging in adventurous activities can broaden horizons, enhance problem-solving skills, and build resilience.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In Part 3, questions become more abstract and discuss broader themes related to the Part 2 topic.
Discussion Points and Model Answers
Examiner: “Why do you think some people choose to live adventurous lives while others don’t?”
Candidate: “I believe it comes down to individual personalities and values. Some people have a natural inclination towards seeking thrills and new experiences, whereas others may prioritize security and stability. Those who choose adventurous lives might be motivated by the desire to explore the unknown and push their boundaries.”
Examiner: “Do you think that adventurous activities should be promoted more among young people?”
Candidate: “Yes, encouraging young people to engage in adventurous activities can have several benefits. It helps them develop important life skills like problem-solving, resilience, and self-confidence. Furthermore, experiencing adventures can ignite a passion for the environment and nature, fostering a sense of responsibility towards our world.”
Essential Vocabulary & Structures
To score high, use advanced vocabulary and varied sentence structures. Here are useful terms:
-
Thrill-seeker /ˈθrɪl ˌsiː.kər/ (n)
- Someone who enjoys excitement and adventure.
- Example: John is a thrill-seeker who finds joy in extreme sports.
-
Fearless /ˈfɪə.ləs/ (adj)
- Lacking fear, brave.
- Example: His fearless nature pushes him to try skydiving.
-
Unquenchable thirst /ʌnˈkwen.tʃə.bl̩ θɜːst/ (phrase)
- An insatiable desire or enthusiasm.
- Example: She has an unquenchable thirst for discovering new places.
-
Contagious enthusiasm /kənˈteɪ.dʒəs ɪnˌθjuː.ziˈæz.əm/ (phrase)
- Excitement that spreads to others.
- Example: His contagious enthusiasm for adventure inspires everyone around him.
Advice for Practicing
- Practice regularly: Consistent practice helps build confidence and fluency.
- Use a variety of sources: Engage with varied materials like books, podcasts, and videos focusing on adventure.
- Record yourself: Listen to your recordings to identify areas for improvement.
- Seek feedback: Work with a tutor or join a speaking group.
For more topics related to adventure, you might find these helpful:
- Describe a time when you had to take a risk
- Describe a place where you would like to go on an adventure
In conclusion, effectively answering questions about adventurous individuals in the IELTS Speaking test requires a mix of specific vocabulary, structured responses, and personal insights. Practice with these model answers and vocabulary tips to enhance your speaking skills and achieve a high band score.
