As an experienced IELTS examiner, I’ll guide you through answering questions about making personal sacrifices for the greater good in the IELTS Speaking test. This topic has appeared in recent exams and is likely to remain relevant, as it assesses your ability to discuss complex personal experiences and moral decisions.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about sacrifices and personal choices. Here’s an example question with a suggested answer:
Question: Do you think people today make enough sacrifices for others?
Sample Answer:
That’s an interesting question. I believe it varies greatly depending on the individual and the circumstances. In my experience, many people are willing to make small sacrifices for others, like giving up their seat on public transport or donating to charity. However, when it comes to major sacrifices that significantly impact one’s life, I think people are generally more hesitant. This is understandable, as we all have our own responsibilities and goals. That being said, I’ve also witnessed remarkable acts of selflessness, especially during times of crisis, which gives me hope that people are capable of great sacrifice when it truly matters.
Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)
Here’s a potential cue card related to the topic:
Describe A Time When You Had To Make A Personal Sacrifice For The Greater Good.
You should say:
- What the sacrifice was
- Why you had to make it
- How it affected you
- And explain why you think it was for the greater good
Sample Answer:
I’d like to talk about a time when I had to make a significant personal sacrifice for the greater good. This occurred during my final year of university when I was presented with an opportunity to participate in a voluntary teaching program in a remote village.
The sacrifice I had to make was giving up my summer internship at a prestigious company, which I had worked hard to secure. This internship was seen as a stepping stone to a successful career in my field, and declining it meant potentially jeopardizing my future job prospects.
I had to make this sacrifice because the teaching program desperately needed volunteers with my specific skill set to help educate underprivileged children. The organizers reached out to me personally, emphasizing how much of an impact I could make.
This decision affected me in several ways. Initially, I felt a sense of regret and anxiety about potentially missing out on a valuable career opportunity. However, as I immersed myself in the teaching program, I experienced a profound sense of fulfillment and personal growth. It challenged me to step out of my comfort zone and develop skills I never knew I had.
I believe this sacrifice was for the greater good because it had a ripple effect that extended far beyond my personal career aspirations. By dedicating my time and skills to teaching these children, I was able to empower them with knowledge and skills that could potentially change the trajectory of their lives. Moreover, the experience broadened my perspective on social issues and inspired me to incorporate more volunteering and community service into my long-term career plans.
In retrospect, while it was a difficult decision at the time, I’m grateful for the opportunity to have made a meaningful contribution to society. It taught me that sometimes, the most rewarding paths in life are those that prioritize the needs of others over our own immediate gains.
IELTS Speaking: Personal Sacrifice
Follow-up Questions:
- How did this experience change your outlook on life?
- Do you think everyone should make such sacrifices at some point in their lives?
Sample Answers:
-
This experience profoundly altered my perspective on life. It made me realize that true fulfillment often comes from making a positive impact on others rather than just pursuing personal success. I became more aware of global issues and the importance of using one’s skills to contribute to society. It also taught me the value of stepping out of my comfort zone and embracing new challenges, as these experiences often lead to the most significant personal growth.
-
While I believe that making sacrifices for the greater good can be incredibly rewarding and character-building, I don’t think it should be mandatory for everyone. People have different circumstances, responsibilities, and ways of contributing to society. However, I do think that everyone should be open to the possibility of making sacrifices when the opportunity arises. Even small acts of selflessness can have a significant impact and contribute to a more compassionate world.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In this section, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:
Q: How do you think society benefits when individuals make sacrifices for the greater good?
A: Society benefits in numerous ways when individuals prioritize the greater good. Firstly, it fosters a sense of community and solidarity, which is crucial for social cohesion. When people see others making sacrifices, it often inspires a ripple effect of generosity and kindness. Additionally, many societal problems can only be solved through collective action and sacrifice. For instance, addressing climate change requires individuals to make lifestyle changes for the benefit of future generations. Moreover, personal sacrifices often lead to innovation and progress. Many scientific breakthroughs and social reforms have come about because individuals were willing to dedicate their time, resources, or even safety to a greater cause. Ultimately, a society where people are willing to make sacrifices for the common good tends to be more resilient, compassionate, and capable of tackling complex challenges.
Q: Do you think the concept of sacrifice for the greater good has changed in modern times?
A: I believe the concept has evolved significantly in modern times. With globalization and technology, our understanding of the “greater good” has expanded beyond our immediate communities to encompass global issues. Social media and instant communication have made us more aware of worldwide problems, potentially increasing opportunities for sacrifice but also diluting our sense of direct impact.
Moreover, in many developed countries, there’s a growing emphasis on individual success and personal fulfillment, which can sometimes conflict with traditional notions of sacrifice. However, we’re also seeing new forms of sacrifice emerge, such as ethical consumerism or digital activism, where people make small but consistent sacrifices in their daily lives.
Interestingly, the COVID-19 pandemic has brought the concept of sacrifice for the greater good to the forefront again, with many people making personal sacrifices for public health. This suggests that while the nature of sacrifice may change, the fundamental concept remains relevant in modern society.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
-
To make a sacrifice (phrase) – /meɪk ə ˈsækrɪfaɪs/ – to give up something valuable for a greater cause
Example: He made a sacrifice by turning down a high-paying job to pursue his passion for teaching. -
Greater good (noun phrase) – /ˈɡreɪtər ɡʊd/ – the benefit of society as a whole, rather than individuals
Example: Many volunteers work tirelessly for the greater good, often without recognition. -
Altruism (noun) – /ˈæltruːɪzəm/ – the belief in or practice of selfless concern for the well-being of others
Example: Her decision to donate a kidney to a stranger was an act of pure altruism. -
To prioritize (verb) – /praɪˈɒrətaɪz/ – to arrange items or tasks in order of importance
Example: We need to prioritize environmental protection over short-term economic gains. -
Empathy (noun) – /ˈempəθi/ – the ability to understand and share the feelings of another
Example: Developing empathy is crucial for creating a more compassionate society. -
To weigh the pros and cons (phrase) – /weɪ ðə prəʊz ænd kɒnz/ – to consider the advantages and disadvantages before making a decision
Example: Before making such a significant sacrifice, it’s important to carefully weigh the pros and cons.
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when discussing personal sacrifices:
-
Use a range of vocabulary: Incorporate advanced words and phrases related to sacrifice, morality, and decision-making.
-
Provide specific examples: When describing your experiences, give detailed examples that illustrate your points clearly.
-
Show critical thinking: In Part 3, demonstrate your ability to analyze complex issues from multiple perspectives.
-
Maintain fluency: Practice speaking on this topic to ensure you can discuss it smoothly and confidently.
-
Use appropriate tenses: When describing past events, use past tenses correctly. When discussing general ideas or hypothetical situations, use present or future tenses as appropriate.
-
Showcase your personality: Don’t be afraid to express your genuine thoughts and feelings on the topic, as this adds authenticity to your responses.
Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is not just about language proficiency, but also about effectively communicating your ideas and experiences. Regular practice with a variety of topics will help you feel more comfortable and perform better on test day.
