The IELTS Speaking Test is designed to assess a range of speaking skills, including fluency, vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation. As an IELTS Speaking Examiner, these are the key elements I look for in a candidate’s performance:
- Fluency and Coherence: Ability to speak smoothly and logically.
- Lexical Resource: Usage of a wide-ranging and appropriate vocabulary.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Correct and varied sentence structures.
- Pronunciation: Clear and accurate pronunciation that is easily understood.
One common topic in the IELTS Speaking Test is learning a new language. This theme is often explored as it reveals the candidate’s personal experiences and challenges. In this article, we will break down how to answer this topic effectively in all parts of the test.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
Common Questions
- What languages can you speak?
- Why did you choose to learn a new language?
- How long have you been learning [language]?
Sample Question and Answer
What languages can you speak?
“I can speak Vietnamese, which is my mother tongue, and English, which I have been learning since I was in primary school. Recently, I started learning Spanish because I find the culture fascinating and I plan to travel to Spain next year.”
Analysis: This answer demonstrates fluency, vocabulary variety, and gives personal context which is always appreciated by the examiner.
Part 2: Long Turn
Cue Card
Describe A Time When You Had To Learn A New Language. You should say:
- When it was
- Why you had to learn this language
- How you learned it
- How confident you felt speaking it
Sample Answer
When it was: “I vividly remember the summer of 2019 when I decided to learn French, mainly because I had received an offer to study at a university in France.”
Why you had to learn this language: “I had to learn French because the courses at my university were conducted entirely in French, and being fluent in the language was imperative for my academic success.”
How you learned it: “I embarked on an immersive learning plan that included attending language classes, practicing with French-speaking friends, and using language apps like Duolingo. Furthermore, I dedicated an hour daily to listening to French podcasts and watching French movies with subtitles.”
How confident you felt speaking it: “Initially, I was quite apprehensive and self-conscious. However, as I practiced more, my confidence grew. By the end of six months, I could converse fairly fluently and felt quite at ease speaking French in everyday situations.”
Analysis: This response is structured, covers all bullet points, and includes specific details and examples. The use of phrases like “immersive learning plan” and “quite apprehensive and self-conscious” showcases a rich vocabulary.
Follow-up Questions
- How important is it to speak a foreign language in your country?
- Do you think learning a new language is difficult?
Sample Answers
How important is it to speak a foreign language in your country?
“In my country, speaking a foreign language, particularly English, is highly valued. It not only enhances job opportunities but also allows individuals to access a vast amount of information and connect with people globally.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Discussion Topics
Examiner: “Why do you think it is important to learn a new language?”
Candidate: “Learning a new language is incredibly important as it fosters better communication and understanding between people of different cultures. It also has cognitive benefits, such as improving memory and problem-solving skills.”
Examiner: “What challenges do people face when learning a new language?”
Candidate: “People often face challenges such as limited access to native speakers, finding time to practice regularly, and overcoming fear of making mistakes. Additionally, mastering the pronunciation and grammar of a new language can be daunting.”
Analysis: These responses show the candidate’s ability to discuss broader implications and analyze common obstacles, which are essential skills for achieving a higher band score.
Vocabulary and Key Structures
- Immersive learning plan: A comprehensive and engaging approach to learning.
- Apprehensive: Anxious or fearful.
- Cognitive benefits: Mental advantages such as improved memory.
- Enhances job opportunities: Makes it easier to get a job.
- Fosters better communication: Improves the ability to communicate.
Example Sentences:
- “An immersive learning plan truly helped me dive into the nuances of French culture.”
- “Initially, I felt quite apprehensive about speaking in French.”
Examiner’s Tips
- Practice Regularly: Consistent practice is crucial to improving fluency and confidence.
- Use Real-world Resources: Watch movies, listen to podcasts, and engage with native speakers.
- Expand Vocabulary: Continuously learn new words and phrases to express yourself more precisely.
- Stay Calm: Keep your responses organized and don’t rush. It’s better to pause and think than to ramble.
By incorporating these strategies and preparing thoroughly, you can excel in the IELTS Speaking Test. Good luck!
IELTS Speaking Test Practice
For further tips and sample questions, you might find these links helpful:
