In the IELTS Speaking test, candidates’ abilities are evaluated based on four criteria: Fluency and Coherence, Lexical Resource, Grammatical Range and Accuracy, and Pronunciation. The topic “Describe a person who is very confident” is a popular one, appearing frequently in various forms throughout the test. This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide, including examples, to help you craft high-scoring answers for this topic.
II. Content
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, the examiner will ask simple questions to get to know you better. These questions are usually about familiar topics such as your family, work, studies, and hobbies.
Example Question:
“Who is the most confident person you know?”
Suggested Answer:
One of the most confident people I know is my uncle, John. He is always sure of himself and doesn’t hesitate to take on new challenges. His self-assuredness is evident in the way he speaks and carries himself.
Part 2: Long Turn
Cue Card:
Describe a person who is very confident.
You should say:
- Who this person is
- How you know this person
- What makes this person confident
- And explain how you feel about this person
Suggested Answer:
One of the most confident people I know is my best friend, Emily. We have known each other since high school, and her self-assuredness has always been apparent. Emily’s confidence stems from her expertise and dedication. She excels in her career as a software engineer, and it shows in the way she presents ideas and takes the lead in projects. Besides, she is very self-reliant and can handle stressful situations with ease. I am constantly impressed and inspired by her level of confidence, and it motivates me to be more self-assured.
Follow-Up Questions:
Why do you think confidence is important?
- Suggested Answer: Confidence is crucial because it allows individuals to face challenges head-on and take risks that can lead to personal and professional growth. It also helps in making sound decisions and effectively leading others.
How can a person develop confidence?
- Suggested Answer: Confidence can be developed through continuous learning and practice. It involves stepping out of one’s comfort zone, gaining experience, and receiving affirmation from others. Additionally, setting and achieving small goals can significantly boost one’s confidence over time.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In Part 3, the discussion becomes more abstract. The examiner will ask broader questions related to the topic of confidence.
Example Questions and Suggested Answers:
How does confidence impact a person’s professional life?
- Suggested Answer: Confidence plays a critical role in professional life. A confident individual is more likely to voice their opinions, take on leadership roles, and handle crisis situations effectively. They tend to inspire trust and earn respect from colleagues and superiors.
Can overconfidence be a problem?
- Suggested Answer: Yes, overconfidence can indeed be problematic. It can lead to poor decision-making, as overconfident individuals might underestimate risks or ignore valuable input from others. Such behavior can result in negative outcomes, both personally and professionally.
III. Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
Key Words and Phrases:
Confident (adj): /ˈkɒn.fɪ.dənt/
- Meaning: Sure of oneself.
- Example: “She is a confident speaker who never hesitates to express her thoughts.”
Self-assured (adj): /ˌself.əˈʃɔːd/
- Meaning: Confident in one’s abilities or character.
- Example: “His self-assured demeanor won him many admirers.”
Self-reliant (adj): /ˌself.rɪˈlaɪənt/
- Meaning: Relying on one’s own efforts and abilities.
- Example: “Learning to be self-reliant is crucial for personal growth.”
Sound decision (phrase):
- Meaning: A decision based on good judgment.
- Example: “Making sound decisions requires confidence and a clear understanding of the situation.”
IV. Tips for Practicing Speaking
- Record Yourself: Regularly record your responses to different speaking prompts and analyze them to identify areas for improvement in pronunciation, grammar, and coherence.
- Seek Feedback: Share your recordings with a mentor or peer to receive constructive feedback.
- Expand Vocabulary: Continuously learn and incorporate new words and phrases into your speech.
- Simulate Test Conditions: Practice under timed conditions to get accustomed to the pressure of the actual test environment.
confident public speaker
Remember, consistency and continuous practice are key to mastering the IELTS Speaking test. Focus on presenting your ideas clearly, using rich vocabulary, and maintaining a natural flow in your answers. Good luck!