Mastering IELTS Speaking: How to Describe an Important Skill You Learned in School

The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about education and personal development. One common topic is describing important skills learned during school years. This question allows candidates to showcase their ability to reflect on past experiences and articulate the value of their education. Let’s explore how to effectively answer this question and maximize your speaking score.

Describe a skill you want to develop in the future is another related topic that may come up in your IELTS Speaking test. Being prepared for both will help you feel more confident on test day.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In Part 1, the examiner may ask general questions about your education and skills. Here are some possible questions:

1. What was your favorite subject in school?
2. Do you think schools teach enough practical skills?
3. What’s the most important skill you learned in school?

Let’s focus on the third question. Here’s a sample answer for band 7-8:

“The most important skill I learned in school was undoubtedly critical thinking. This skill has been invaluable in both my academic and personal life. It has enabled me to analyze information more effectively, make better decisions, and solve complex problems. For instance, when I’m reading news articles or watching debates, I can now identify logical fallacies and question the validity of arguments more readily.”

Part 2: Long Turn

Now, let’s move on to Part 2, where you’ll be given a cue card related to the topic. Here’s a possible cue card:

Important skill learned in school

Describe An Important Skill You Learned In School
You should say:

• What the skill was
• When and how you learned it
• Why it was important
• How you have used this skill in your life

Here’s a sample answer for band 8-9:

“I’d like to talk about an essential skill I acquired during my high school years – effective time management. This skill was gradually developed throughout my secondary education, but it truly crystallized during my final year when I was juggling multiple subjects, extracurricular activities, and university applications.

The process of learning time management was both challenging and enlightening. Our school introduced a series of workshops on productivity and organization, which served as the foundation. However, the real learning came through practical application. I began by meticulously planning my daily schedule, prioritizing tasks, and setting realistic goals. It was a process of trial and error, and I often found myself refining my techniques.

The importance of this skill cannot be overstated. In the short term, it allowed me to balance my academic responsibilities with my personal interests, leading to improved grades and reduced stress levels. More significantly, it prepared me for the demands of university life and, later, the professional world.

Since leaving school, I’ve utilized this skill in numerous ways. During my university years, it enabled me to maintain a healthy work-life balance while excelling in my studies. In my current job, effective time management has been crucial in meeting deadlines, handling multiple projects simultaneously, and even finding time for continuous learning and professional development.

In essence, learning time management in school has been a game-changer, equipping me with a tool that continues to enhance both my productivity and overall quality of life.”

Now, let’s look at some follow-up questions the examiner might ask:

1. Do you think time management is a skill that can be taught, or is it something people learn through experience?
2. How has technology affected the way people manage their time?

Sample answer for question 1 (Band 8-9):

“I believe time management is a skill that can be both taught and refined through experience. The fundamental principles, such as prioritization techniques and goal-setting strategies, can certainly be imparted in a classroom setting. However, the real mastery comes from applying these principles in various real-life situations. It’s a bit like learning to play a musical instrument – you can be taught the notes and theory, but becoming proficient requires consistent practice and adaptation to different scenarios.”

Describe a time when you took on a new challenge could be a great opportunity to discuss how you applied your time management skills in a demanding situation.

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

In Part 3, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some possible questions and sample answers:

Examiner: How has the importance of different skills changed over the years in education?

Sample answer (Band 7-8):

“The landscape of essential skills in education has undoubtedly evolved over the years. In the past, there was a strong emphasis on rote learning and memorization. However, in recent decades, there’s been a significant shift towards developing critical thinking, problem-solving, and digital literacy skills. This change reflects the demands of our rapidly evolving, technology-driven world.

For instance, while basic computer skills were once considered advanced, they’re now fundamental. Instead, we’re seeing a growing focus on more complex digital skills like coding, data analysis, and understanding artificial intelligence. Similarly, soft skills like emotional intelligence, adaptability, and cross-cultural communication have gained prominence, recognizing the increasingly globalized nature of our society and workplaces.

Moreover, there’s been a notable increase in the importance of interdisciplinary skills. Schools are now encouraging students to connect knowledge from different subjects, fostering a more holistic approach to learning and problem-solving. This shift acknowledges that real-world challenges often require solutions that draw from multiple disciplines.”

Examiner: Do you think schools should focus more on teaching practical skills or academic knowledge?

Sample answer (Band 8-9):

“This is a nuanced issue that doesn’t have a one-size-fits-all solution. Both practical skills and academic knowledge play crucial roles in a well-rounded education, and I believe the key lies in striking the right balance.

Academic knowledge provides the theoretical foundation that underpins many practical skills. It develops critical thinking, analytical abilities, and a broader understanding of the world. This knowledge base is essential for innovation and advanced problem-solving in various fields.

On the other hand, practical skills are vital for applying this knowledge in real-world contexts. They enhance employability, foster independence, and often boost students’ confidence and engagement in learning. Skills like financial literacy, digital competence, and effective communication are increasingly important in our rapidly changing world.

I believe the ideal approach would be to integrate practical skill development within the academic curriculum. For example, a science class could include hands-on experiments and real-world problem-solving scenarios. This way, students learn to apply their academic knowledge practically, bridging the gap between theory and application.

Furthermore, the balance might need to shift as students progress through their education. Early years could focus more on foundational academic knowledge, while later years could increasingly emphasize practical application and specialized skills relevant to students’ chosen paths.

Ultimately, the goal should be to produce well-rounded individuals who are not only knowledgeable but also capable of applying their knowledge effectively in various life situations.”

Describe a hobby you took up recently could be an excellent way to demonstrate how you’ve applied both academic knowledge and practical skills in a personal context.

Key Vocabulary and Phrases

To achieve a high score in your IELTS Speaking test, it’s crucial to use a range of advanced vocabulary and complex sentence structures. Here are some key terms and phrases you can incorporate:

1. Crystallize /ˈkrɪstəlaɪz/ (verb): To become clear and definite
   Example: “My understanding of the subject really crystallized during the final year.”

2. Meticulously /məˈtɪkjələsli/ (adverb): In a way that shows great attention to detail
   Example: “I began meticulously planning my daily schedule.”

3. Game-changer /ɡeɪm tʃeɪndʒər/ (noun): An event, idea, or procedure that effects a significant shift in the current way of doing or thinking about something
   Example: “Learning time management has been a game-changer in my professional life.”

4. Interdisciplinary /ˌɪntərdɪsəˈplɪnəri/ (adjective): Involving two or more academic disciplines
   Example: “Schools are now encouraging interdisciplinary approaches to problem-solving.”

5. Nuanced /ˈnjuːɑːnst/ (adjective): Characterized by subtle shades of meaning or expression
   Example: “This is a nuanced issue that doesn’t have a simple solution.”

Describe a person who is very adaptable could be an excellent opportunity to use some of these advanced terms in context.

Examiner’s Advice

To excel in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when describing an important skill learned in school:

1. Prepare a range of examples from your educational experience. This will help you respond quickly and confidently to various questions.

2. Practice articulating the importance and application of skills you’ve learned. This demonstrates your ability to reflect and analyze.

3. Use a variety of tenses correctly when discussing past learning experiences and their current applications.

4. Incorporate advanced vocabulary and idiomatic expressions naturally into your responses.

5. Develop your ideas fully, providing specific examples and explanations to support your points.

6. Show your ability to discuss abstract concepts, especially in Part 3, by considering different perspectives and implications.

Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is not just about what you say, but how you say it. Confidence, fluency, and the ability to express complex ideas clearly are all crucial factors.

Describe a time when you shared an important story with someone could be a great opportunity to practice these skills in a different context.

By following these guidelines and practicing regularly, you’ll be well-prepared to discuss the important skills you learned in school and achieve a high score in your IELTS Speaking test.