The IELTS Speaking test often includes topics about people who possess unique qualities or expertise. One such topic that frequently appears is describing someone who is well-informed about current affairs. This article will guide you through answering questions related to this theme, providing sample responses and valuable tips to help you achieve a high band score.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In this section, the examiner may ask you general questions about current events and news. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:

1. Do you keep up with current events?
2. How do you usually get your news?
3. Do you think it’s important to stay informed about world affairs?

Let’s focus on the third question:

Examiner: Do you think it’s important to stay informed about world affairs?

Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I think it’s quite important to know what’s happening in the world. It helps us understand different cultures and global issues. Also, being aware of current events can be useful in conversations and at work.

Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely. I believe staying informed about world affairs is crucial in today’s interconnected world. It not only broadens our perspective but also helps us make more informed decisions, both personally and professionally. Moreover, understanding global issues fosters empathy and can inspire us to contribute positively to society.

Part 2: Long Turn

Here’s a sample cue card related to the topic:

Describe a person who is very knowledgeable about current events.
You should say:

• Who this person is
• How you know this person
• What kind of current events this person knows about
• And explain why you think this person is so knowledgeable about current events

Band 6-7 Answer:
I’d like to talk about my uncle, John. He’s my father’s younger brother, and I’ve known him since I was a child. We often meet at family gatherings.

Uncle John knows a lot about politics, economics, and social issues. He always seems to be up-to-date with what’s happening around the world. He can discuss things like elections in different countries, economic trends, and environmental problems.

I think he’s so knowledgeable because he reads a lot. He subscribes to several news websites and watches international news channels. Also, he travels quite often for work, which probably helps him learn about different cultures and issues firsthand.

Band 8-9 Answer:
I’d like to elaborate on my former university professor, Dr. Sarah Thompson. I had the privilege of attending her International Relations classes during my undergraduate studies, and her profound knowledge of global affairs left an indelible impression on me.

Dr. Thompson possesses an encyclopedic understanding of a wide array of current events, ranging from geopolitical tensions and economic policies to social movements and technological advancements. Her expertise isn’t limited to a single region; she can effortlessly discuss the intricacies of Middle Eastern politics one moment and seamlessly transition to analyzing the economic implications of Brexit the next.

I believe her exceptional knowledge stems from a combination of factors. Firstly, her voracious appetite for information is evident in her habit of consuming news from diverse sources, including reputable international publications and academic journals. Secondly, her extensive network of colleagues and former students across the globe provides her with firsthand insights into local perspectives on global issues. Lastly, her analytical mind allows her to connect seemingly disparate events, forming a comprehensive understanding of the complex web of global affairs.

Professor discussing current events with students

Examiner: How do you think this person’s knowledge affects their daily life?

Band 6-7 Answer:
I think Dr. Thompson’s knowledge has a big impact on her daily life. It probably helps her in her teaching and research. She can give interesting lectures and write papers about current issues. Also, I imagine she has many interesting conversations with colleagues and friends about what’s happening in the world.

Band 8-9 Answer:
Dr. Thompson’s extensive knowledge of current events permeates every aspect of her daily life. In her professional sphere, it enriches her lectures, making them dynamic and relevant, and informs her research, allowing her to contribute meaningfully to academic discourse. On a personal level, I believe it shapes her worldview, making her more empathetic and open-minded. Her understanding of global issues likely influences her consumer choices, perhaps leading her to support ethical brands or make environmentally conscious decisions. Moreover, her knowledge undoubtedly enhances her social interactions, enabling her to engage in stimulating conversations and provide valuable insights to those around her.

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

Examiner: What are the benefits of being well-informed about current events?

Band 6-7 Answer:
There are several benefits to knowing about current events. First, it helps you understand what’s happening in the world, which can be useful in many situations. It can also make you a better citizen because you can make informed decisions when voting or participating in community activities. Additionally, being well-informed can help in your career, especially if you work in fields like business or politics.

Band 8-9 Answer:
Being well-versed in current affairs offers numerous advantages. Firstly, it fosters critical thinking and analytical skills, as one learns to evaluate information from various sources and form well-reasoned opinions. This knowledge also enhances cultural competence, promoting greater empathy and understanding of diverse perspectives, which is invaluable in our increasingly globalized world.

Moreover, staying informed empowers individuals to be active and responsible citizens. It enables them to make informed decisions on crucial issues, from voting to consumer choices, thereby contributing to a more engaged society. In the professional realm, a solid grasp of current events can be a significant asset, providing context for business decisions, facilitating networking, and demonstrating intellectual curiosity – a trait highly valued by employers.

Lastly, being knowledgeable about world affairs can enrich personal life, making one a more engaging conversationalist and fostering a sense of connection to the broader human experience. It can also inspire personal growth and motivate individuals to contribute positively to societal issues they feel passionate about.

Person reading news from multiple devices

Examiner: Do you think social media is a reliable source of information about current events?

Band 6-7 Answer:
Social media can be both good and bad for getting information about current events. On one hand, it’s fast and can give you news quickly. Many people share important information on social media platforms. However, there’s also a lot of fake news and misinformation. It’s important to be careful and check the sources of information you find on social media.

Band 8-9 Answer:
The reliability of social media as a source of information about current events is a complex and nuanced issue. While social media platforms undeniably offer unprecedented speed in disseminating information and provide a platform for diverse voices, including citizen journalists and eyewitnesses, they also present significant challenges.

One of the primary concerns is the proliferation of misinformation and disinformation. The viral nature of social media content, combined with algorithmic amplification, can lead to the rapid spread of false or misleading information. Moreover, the echo chamber effect created by personalized feeds can reinforce existing biases and limit exposure to diverse perspectives.

However, it’s important to note that social media can be a valuable tool when used judiciously. Many reputable news organizations and journalists use social media to share breaking news and engage with their audience. The key lies in developing critical media literacy skills – verifying sources, cross-referencing information, and maintaining a healthy skepticism.

Ultimately, while social media can serve as a useful starting point for staying informed about current events, it should ideally be part of a broader, diverse media diet that includes traditional news outlets, academic sources, and direct engagement with primary sources when possible.

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

1. Well-versed (adjective) /wel vɜːrst/: Highly experienced, practiced, or skilled; very knowledgeable
   Example: She’s well-versed in international politics.

2. To keep abreast of (phrasal verb) /kiːp əˈbrest əv/: To stay fully informed about
   Example: He reads several newspapers daily to keep abreast of current affairs.

3. Geopolitical (adjective) /ˌdʒiːəʊpəˈlɪtɪkl/: Relating to politics, especially international relations, as influenced by geographical factors
   Example: The professor analyzed the geopolitical implications of the new trade agreement.

4. To delve into (phrasal verb) /delv ˈɪntuː/: To research or examine something thoroughly
   Example: The journalist delved into the complex history of the region.

5. Ramifications (noun) /ˌræmɪfɪˈkeɪʃnz/: The consequences of an action or event, especially when complex or unwelcome
   Example: We discussed the potential ramifications of the new environmental policy.

Describe a person who inspired you to focus on sustainability can be another interesting topic that combines knowledge of current events with environmental awareness.

Examiner’s Advice

To excel in discussing current events in your IELTS Speaking test:

1. Stay informed: Regularly read or watch news from reputable international sources.
2. Practice articulating opinions: Don’t just memorize facts; practice expressing your views on various issues.
3. Develop a broad vocabulary: Learn and use topic-specific terminology related to politics, economics, and social issues.
4. Use examples: Support your points with relevant, real-world examples from current events.
5. Show balanced thinking: Demonstrate your ability to see issues from multiple perspectives.

Remember, the goal is not just to showcase your knowledge, but to demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively in English about complex, real-world topics.

Describe a subject you didn’t like at school but are interested in now could be relevant if your interest in current events developed later in life.

By following these guidelines and practicing regularly, you’ll be well-prepared to discuss knowledgeable individuals and current events in your IELTS Speaking test, potentially boosting your band score significantly.

IELTS candidate preparing for speaking test

Describe a person who is very knowledgeable about culture is another topic that could complement your discussion about someone knowledgeable in current events, as cultural awareness often intersects with global affairs.

Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is not just knowledge, but the ability to articulate that knowledge clearly and confidently. Regular practice, exposure to diverse topics, and developing a rich vocabulary will all contribute to a strong performance.