Describing a book you read as a child is a common topic in IELTS Speaking tests. This theme allows examiners to assess your ability to recall past experiences, express emotions, and use descriptive language. Given its prevalence in previous exams, it’s likely to appear in future tests as well. Let’s explore how to tackle this topic effectively across all parts of the IELTS Speaking test.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about reading habits and childhood memories. Here are some potential questions with sample answers:
Q: Do you enjoy reading books?
Band 6-7 Answer: Yes, I do enjoy reading books. I find it relaxing and a great way to learn new things. I try to read at least one book a month, usually fiction or self-help books.
Band 8-9 Answer: Absolutely! I’m an avid reader and find immense pleasure in delving into various genres. Reading not only broadens my horizons but also serves as a form of escapism. I make it a point to dedicate at least an hour each day to reading, alternating between fiction, non-fiction, and academic literature to maintain a well-rounded perspective.
Q: What kind of books did you like to read as a child?
Band 6-7 Answer: As a child, I loved reading adventure stories and fairy tales. They were exciting and helped me imagine different worlds.
Band 8-9 Answer: During my childhood, I was particularly drawn to a diverse range of genres. While fairy tales and adventure stories captivated my imagination, I also found myself engrossed in science fiction and mystery novels. These books not only entertained me but also played a pivotal role in shaping my creativity and critical thinking skills from an early age.
Describe a book you would recommend to others to further enhance your speaking skills on this topic.
Part 2: Long Turn
Here’s a sample cue card related to the topic:
Describe A Book You Read As A Child that left a strong impression on you.
You should say:
- What the book was
- When you read it
- What it was about
- And explain why it left a strong impression on you
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
The book that left an indelible impression on me during my childhood was “Charlotte’s Web” by E.B. White. I first encountered this literary gem when I was around eight years old, and it profoundly impacted my young mind.
“Charlotte’s Web” tells the heartwarming tale of an unlikely friendship between Wilbur, a young pig, and Charlotte, a clever spider. Set on a farm, the story revolves around Charlotte’s ingenious efforts to save Wilbur from being slaughtered by weaving praise for him in her web. This act of selflessness and creativity captivated my imagination and taught me valuable lessons about friendship, sacrifice, and the power of words.
What struck me most about this book was its ability to evoke a wide range of emotions. I remember feeling joy at the characters’ triumphs, anxiety during their challenges, and a profound sadness at certain moments. The book’s masterful portrayal of life, death, and the cycles of nature left me contemplating these concepts long after I had finished reading.
Moreover, the character of Charlotte, with her wisdom and selflessness, became a role model for me. Her famous quote, “You have been my friend. That in itself is a tremendous thing,” resonated deeply with me and shaped my understanding of true friendship.
This book left such a strong impression because it was my first encounter with literature that dealt with complex themes in a way that was accessible to a young reader. It opened my eyes to the power of storytelling and how books can teach important life lessons while also entertaining. To this day, I credit “Charlotte’s Web” with sparking my lifelong love for reading and my appreciation for well-crafted narratives.
Child reading Charlotte's Web at bedtime
Follow-up Questions:
- Has your taste in books changed since childhood?
- Do you think children’s books today are different from when you were young?
Band 6-7 Answer:
- Yes, my taste has changed a bit. I now read more complex books and different genres, but I still enjoy a good story like when I was young.
- I think children’s books today are more diverse and cover more topics. They also have more illustrations and interactive elements.
Band 8-9 Answer:
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My literary preferences have certainly evolved over the years. While I still appreciate the simplicity and moral clarity of children’s literature, I now gravitate towards more nuanced and thought-provoking works. I’ve developed a keen interest in literary fiction, philosophical texts, and historical non-fiction, which challenge my perspectives and foster intellectual growth.
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Indeed, I believe children’s literature has undergone a significant transformation. Contemporary children’s books tend to be more inclusive and diverse, tackling complex social issues in age-appropriate ways. They often incorporate interactive elements and digital components, reflecting our changing technological landscape. However, I think the core elements of storytelling and moral guidance remain constant, bridging the gap between generations through timeless narratives.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Q: How do you think reading habits have changed in the digital age?
Band 6-7 Answer: I think people read less physical books now because of smartphones and tablets. Many prefer e-books or short articles online. However, some still enjoy traditional books, especially for relaxation.
Band 8-9 Answer: The digital age has undeniably revolutionized our reading habits. We’re witnessing a significant shift towards digital platforms, with e-books and audiobooks gaining popularity due to their convenience and accessibility. This transition has led to more fragmented reading patterns, with many people opting for shorter articles or blog posts that can be quickly consumed on mobile devices.
However, it’s important to note that this change isn’t universally negative. While some argue that attention spans have diminished, others point out that digital platforms have democratized information, making a vast array of literature accessible to a global audience. Moreover, we’re seeing an interesting resurgence in physical book sales, suggesting a growing appreciation for the tactile experience of reading.
The key challenge moving forward will be to strike a balance between digital convenience and the immersive experience that traditional reading offers, ensuring that deep, critical reading skills are not lost in the digital transition.
Q: Do you think schools should focus more on encouraging children to read for pleasure?
Band 6-7 Answer: Yes, I think schools should encourage reading for fun. It can help children improve their language skills and imagination. Maybe they could have more free reading time or book clubs.
Band 8-9 Answer: Absolutely, I believe schools have a crucial role to play in fostering a love for reading among children. Encouraging reading for pleasure can have far-reaching benefits beyond mere academic achievement. It cultivates critical thinking, enhances emotional intelligence, and broadens horizons in ways that structured curriculum alone cannot achieve.
To implement this effectively, schools could consider integrating various strategies. For instance, dedicating time for free reading during the school day, organizing book clubs or reading challenges, and inviting authors for interactive sessions could spark enthusiasm for literature. Additionally, curating diverse and inclusive reading lists that cater to different interests and reading levels could ensure that every child finds something that resonates with them.
However, it’s important to strike a delicate balance. While encouraging reading, schools should be cautious not to make it feel like another academic obligation. The focus should be on nurturing intrinsic motivation and the sheer joy of reading, rather than extrinsic rewards or compulsory participation.
Diverse children's books in a school library
Describe a teacher who made an impact on your life can provide additional insights into discussing influential figures from your past.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
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Indelible impression (adjective + noun) – A lasting mark or effect
Example: The book left an indelible impression on my young mind. -
To captivate one’s imagination (verb phrase) – To fascinate or enchant someone’s thoughts
Example: The vivid descriptions in the story captivated my imagination. -
To resonate with (verb phrase) – To evoke a feeling of shared emotion or belief
Example: The themes of friendship in the book resonated deeply with me. -
To spark a love for (verb phrase) – To ignite or initiate a passion for something
Example: This early reading experience sparked my love for literature. -
To cultivate (verb) – To develop or improve through attention and effort
Example: Reading diverse books helps cultivate empathy and understanding. -
To foster (verb) – To encourage the development of something
Example: Schools should foster a love for reading among students. -
Far-reaching benefits (adjective + noun) – Extensive or wide-ranging positive effects
Example: Encouraging reading for pleasure can have far-reaching benefits for children’s development. -
To strike a balance (idiom) – To find a compromise between two extremes
Example: It’s important to strike a balance between digital and traditional reading.
Tips from an IELTS Speaking Examiner
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Practice storytelling: Regularly recall and narrate stories from books you’ve read. This improves your ability to structure responses and use descriptive language.
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Expand your vocabulary: Focus on learning and using advanced descriptive words and idiomatic expressions related to books and reading.
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Develop personal opinions: Reflect on how books have influenced you. Being able to express personal views coherently is crucial for higher band scores.
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Use a variety of tenses: When describing past reading experiences and their current impact, practice switching between past and present tenses fluently.
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Record yourself: This helps identify areas for improvement in pronunciation, fluency, and coherence.
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Stay updated: Keep abreast of current trends in reading and literature to discuss the topic more comprehensively in Part 3.
Remember, the key to excelling in the IELTS Speaking test is not just about what you say, but how you say it. Confidence, fluency, and the ability to elaborate on your ideas are crucial factors in achieving a high band score.
Describe a place where you enjoy spending your evenings can help you practice describing settings, which is useful when talking about books.
