As an IELTS instructor with over two decades of experience, I often encounter students who feel anxious about the IELTS Speaking test, particularly the dreaded question: “What subject are you studying?” While seemingly simple, this question can be surprisingly tricky to answer effectively. It’s not just about stating your major; it’s about showcasing your language skills and ability to engage in a natural, confident conversation.
This article delves into the nuances of this common IELTS Speaking test question, providing you with the tools and insights to answer it impressively.
Why Does the IELTS Examiner Ask About Your Subject of Study?
The IELTS Speaking test aims to assess your overall English proficiency, including your ability to:
- Communicate personal information: Talking about your studies falls under this category.
- Express your opinions and ideas: You might be asked to elaborate on why you chose your subject, what you find interesting about it, or your future aspirations.
- Use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures: Discussing your academic field allows you to showcase subject-specific vocabulary and demonstrate your command of complex sentence structures.
Navigating “What Subject Are You Studying?”
Let’s break down how to answer this question strategically:
1. State Your Subject Clearly and Confidently
Begin by directly stating your subject. For example:
- “I’m currently pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering.”
- “I’m a second-year Software Development student.”
Important Tip: Avoid using overly academic or obscure terms. While it’s good to demonstrate your vocabulary, clarity is key.
2. Elaborate and Provide Context
Don’t stop after stating your subject. Expand on your answer by providing context and details. This could include:
- Your reasons for choosing this field: “I’ve always been fascinated by how things work, which drew me to Mechanical Engineering.”
- Specific areas of interest within your subject: “Within Software Development, I’m particularly interested in artificial intelligence and its applications.”
- Your future aspirations: “I aspire to work as a software engineer developing innovative mobile applications.”
3. Utilize a Variety of Vocabulary and Grammar
This is your chance to showcase your language skills! Incorporate a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures:
- Vocabulary: Instead of repeating “interesting,” use synonyms like “engaging,” “fascinating,” or “captivating.”
- Grammar: Utilize a mix of simple and complex sentences. For example, instead of “I like my subject because it’s challenging,” say, “The challenging nature of my chosen field is what truly motivates me.”
IELTS Speaking Test Preparation
Illustrative Examples from IELTS Speaking Tests
Here are some examples incorporating the strategies discussed:
Example 1:
Examiner: What subject are you studying?
Candidate: I’m studying Environmental Science. I’ve always been passionate about protecting our planet, and this field allows me to combine my scientific curiosity with my desire to make a positive impact. I’m particularly interested in renewable energy solutions.
Example 2:
Examiner: What are you studying at university?
Candidate: I’m pursuing a degree in Business Administration, specializing in Marketing. I’m fascinated by consumer behavior and the psychology behind marketing strategies. My goal is to work in digital marketing, helping businesses reach their target audiences online.
Tips for Success
- Practice makes perfect: Rehearse talking about your subject beforehand. This will boost your confidence and fluency.
- Think about potential follow-up questions: Prepare for questions about your favorite courses, challenges you’ve faced, or your career goals.
- Be genuine and enthusiastic: Your passion for your subject will shine through, making your response more engaging.
- Don’t memorize answers: Focus on conveying your ideas naturally and spontaneously.
Conclusion
Answering “What subject are you studying?” effectively in your IELTS Speaking test involves more than just stating your major. It’s an opportunity to demonstrate your language proficiency, your ability to express yourself clearly and confidently, and your overall communication skills. By following the strategies outlined in this article and practicing regularly, you’ll be well-equipped to handle this question and other similar prompts with confidence and achieve your desired IELTS score.
