Achieving a high score in the IELTS Speaking test requires not just fluency but also an ability to respond to a variety of questions thoughtfully and coherently. In this guide, we’ll delve into a common topic—describing a person who is very good at communicating. We’ll explore different parts of the Speaking test, provide sample questions and answers, and highlight key vocabulary and structures to ensure a top band score.
The Examiner assesses your speaking abilities based on four criteria: Fluency and Coherence, Lexical Resource, Grammatical Range and Accuracy, and Pronunciation. We will break down how to excel in each of these areas while discussing how to describe someone proficient in communication. Given the relevance of this topic, it often appears in IELTS exams, making it essential to master.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, you’ll be asked general questions about yourself and a range of familiar topics. Here are some example questions and a sample answer:
Common Questions
- Can you tell me about a person who inspires you?
- Describe A Person Who Is Very Good At Communicating. Why do you think they are good at it?
Sample Answer
“One person who is exceptionally good at communicating is my friend Sarah. She has an amazing ability to express her ideas clearly and persuasively. I believe she excels in communication because she always listens attentively, uses appropriate body language, and chooses her words carefully to avoid misunderstandings.”
Analysis: The answer uses varied sentence structures, introduces a character (Sarah), and provides specific reasons (listening attentively, using body language, and choosing words carefully) which contribute to a coherent and fluent response.
Part 2: Long Turn
In this part, you will be given a cue card with a topic to speak about for two minutes. Let’s create a cue card and a sample response related to good communication skills.
Cue Card
Describe a person who is very good at communicating. You should say:
- Who this person is
- How you know him/her
- What he/she likes to talk about
- And explain why you think he/she is so good at communicating
Answer
“I’d like to talk about my colleague, John. I met John at my workplace and have known him for about five years. John is someone who can effortlessly engage in conversations with people from all walks of life. He is particularly interested in technology and innovation, topics he discusses with such enthusiasm and depth that he captivates his audience. One reason why John is such an excellent communicator is his ability to empathize with others, making them feel heard and understood. Additionally, he uses a wide range of vocabulary tailored to his listeners’ understanding, ensuring his messages are always clear and engaging.”
Person Communicating
Follow-up Questions
-
What qualities make someone a good communicator?
“A good communicator should be a good listener, empathetic, and articulate. Active listening helps in understanding the other person’s perspective, while empathy builds a connection. Being articulate ensures that the message is clear and comprehensible.” -
Is it important to be a good communicator in today’s world?
“Absolutely, effective communication is crucial in both personal and professional settings. It helps in building relationships, resolving conflicts, and enhancing productivity at work.”
Analysis: The sample response provides a comprehensive profile of John, including how he communicates and why he is effective. The use of specific vocabulary such as “empathize,” “engage,” and “articulate” enhances the lexical resource score.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In this section, you will engage in a more abstract discussion related to the topic in Part 2.
Example Questions
- How important are communication skills in business?
- Can communication skills be taught, or are people born with them?
Sample Answers
Examiner: How important are communication skills in business?
Candidate: “Communication skills are paramount in business. They facilitate better teamwork, clarify goals, and ensure that everyone is on the same page. Clear communication can also prevent misunderstandings and conflicts, thereby boosting efficiency and morale within the workplace.”
Examiner: Can communication skills be taught, or are people born with them?
Candidate: “I believe communication skills can certainly be taught. While some people may have a natural inclination towards effective communication, structured training and practice can significantly improve anyone’s ability to communicate well. Techniques such as public speaking courses, active listening exercises, and feedback sessions are highly effective in honing these skills.”
Analysis: These answers delve into deeper implications and provide well-rounded perspectives. Using terms like “paramount,” “facilitate,” and “structured training” further exhibits a sophisticated range of vocabulary.
Key Vocabulary and Structures
Important Words and Phrases
- Empathy /ˈɛmpəθi/: noun – the ability to understand and share the feelings of another.
- Articulate /ɑːrˈtɪkjʊlɪt/: adjective – able to express ideas clearly and effectively.
- Active listening: noun – fully concentrating, understanding, responding, and remembering what is being said.
- Effortlessly /ˈɛfərtlɪsli/: adverb – in a manner requiring no physical or mental exertion.
- Paramount /ˈpærəmaʊnt/: adjective – more important than anything else; supreme.
Example Sentences
- “Her empathy made her a great leader, as she could easily relate to her team’s concerns.”
- “He is very articulate, which makes his speeches engaging and easy to understand.”
- “Through active listening, we can ensure that we address the real issues of our clients.”
Tips for High Scores
- Practice regularly: Consistent practice helps in building fluency and confidence.
- Expand vocabulary: Learning new words and their usage can enormously enhance your lexical resource score.
- Listen: Pay attention to how native speakers communicate. This can improve your pronunciation and understanding of natural expressions.
- Seek feedback: Have someone review your speaking exercises to identify areas for improvement.
Wrapping up, mastering the art of describing a person who is very good at communicating can significantly boost your performance in the IELTS Speaking test. Use the tips and sample answers provided here to practice and enhance your skills.
