The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about reading habits and future plans. One common topic that frequently appears is describing a new book you intend to read. This article will guide you through answering this question effectively, providing sample answers and valuable tips to help you achieve a high band score.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, the examiner may ask general questions about your reading habits. Here’s a sample question with a suggested answer:
Examiner: Do you enjoy reading books?
Band 7-8 Answer:
“Absolutely! I’m quite the bookworm, actually. I find reading to be not only entertaining but also incredibly enriching. It’s a fantastic way to broaden my horizons and gain new perspectives on various subjects. I try to devote at least an hour each day to reading, whether it’s fiction or non-fiction. It’s become an integral part of my daily routine.”
Describe a time when you lost track of time while reading an engaging book. This experience can help illustrate your passion for reading and provide a specific example to support your answer.
Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)
Here’s a sample cue card related to describing a new book:
Describe a new book you plan to read soon
You should say:
- What the book is
- How you heard about it
- Why you want to read it
- And explain how you think this book will impact you
Band 6-7 Answer:
“I’m quite excited about a new book I plan to read soon. It’s called ‘The Midnight Library’ by Matt Haig. I first heard about it from a close friend who raved about its thought-provoking storyline. The book revolves around a woman who finds herself in a library between life and death, where she can try out different versions of her life.
I want to read this book because I’m intrigued by the concept of parallel universes and the idea of exploring ‘what-if’ scenarios in our lives. It seems like a perfect blend of fantasy and philosophy, which are two genres I particularly enjoy.
I believe this book will have a significant impact on me. It’s likely to make me reflect on my own life choices and perhaps appreciate the path I’ve taken more. I think it will also encourage me to be more mindful of the decisions I make, knowing that each choice can lead to a completely different life trajectory.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“I’m eagerly anticipating delving into a new book that’s been creating quite a buzz in literary circles – ‘The Midnight Library’ by Matt Haig. This novel first caught my attention when it was shortlisted for the Goodreads Choice Award for Fiction. Its intriguing premise and the author’s reputation for tackling complex themes with sensitivity and wit piqued my interest immensely.
The book centers around a fascinating concept – a library that exists between life and death, where each book represents a different path the protagonist’s life could have taken. This blend of magical realism and existential philosophy is particularly appealing to me, as I’m drawn to narratives that challenge our perception of reality and explore the human condition.
I’m keen to immerse myself in this story because it promises to be both entertaining and thought-provoking. The idea of exploring the roads not taken in life is a universal theme that I believe will resonate deeply with me and perhaps offer new perspectives on my own choices and experiences.
I anticipate that this book will have a profound impact on my worldview. It’s likely to prompt introspection about the nature of regret, the importance of the choices we make, and the concept of contentment with one’s life path. Moreover, I expect it will enhance my appreciation for the present moment and perhaps inspire me to approach life’s crossroads with greater mindfulness and intention. The novel’s exploration of parallel lives might also serve as a reminder of the infinite possibilities that exist within our own reality, potentially motivating me to pursue opportunities I might have otherwise overlooked.”
Examiner: How do you think reading this book will affect your decision-making in the future?
Band 7-8 Answer:
“I believe reading ‘The Midnight Library’ will have a significant impact on my future decision-making process. The book’s exploration of alternative life paths will likely make me more conscious of the potential consequences of my choices. It might encourage me to be more deliberate and thoughtful when facing important decisions, considering not just the immediate outcomes but also the long-term implications. Moreover, I think it will help me appreciate the value of living in the present and not dwelling too much on ‘what-ifs’, which can be counterproductive.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“I anticipate that immersing myself in ‘The Midnight Library’ will profoundly influence my approach to decision-making in the future. The novel’s premise of exploring multiple life trajectories is likely to heighten my awareness of the ripple effects our choices can have. I expect it will instill in me a greater sense of responsibility and mindfulness when faced with significant life decisions.
Furthermore, I believe it will encourage me to adopt a more balanced perspective when evaluating my choices. Instead of fixating on potential regrets or missed opportunities, I may be more inclined to appreciate the unique experiences and growth that come with the path I’ve chosen. This shift in mindset could lead to more confident and decisive action in future scenarios.
Additionally, the book might inspire me to be more open to taking calculated risks and stepping out of my comfort zone. By illustrating the myriad possibilities that exist in our lives, it could embolden me to pursue opportunities I might have previously hesitated to explore, while still maintaining a grounded appreciation for my current circumstances.”
IELTS Speaking: Impact of reading on decision-making
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Examiner: Do you think reading habits are changing in the digital age?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“Yes, I believe reading habits are definitely changing in the digital age. With the rise of e-books and audiobooks, people have more options for how they consume literature. Many people now prefer to read on their smartphones or tablets because it’s more convenient and they can carry multiple books with them easily. However, this digital trend might be affecting our attention spans and the way we absorb information. Despite these changes, I think traditional printed books still have their place and many people, including myself, enjoy the feeling of holding a physical book.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“Undoubtedly, the digital revolution has precipitated a significant shift in reading habits. The proliferation of e-readers, tablets, and smartphones has democratized access to literature, making it possible for individuals to carry entire libraries in their pockets. This unprecedented convenience has fostered a culture of on-the-go reading, allowing people to engage with text during commutes or in brief moments of downtime.
Moreover, the digital age has ushered in new forms of reading, such as interactive e-books and multimedia storytelling platforms, which are redefining our concept of literature. These innovations are particularly appealing to younger generations who have grown up in a digital-first world.
However, this shift is not without its challenges. The constant connectivity and myriad distractions of digital devices can potentially hamper deep reading and comprehension. There’s a growing body of research suggesting that reading on screens may impact our ability to engage in sustained, focused reading sessions.
Interestingly, we’re also witnessing a parallel trend of ‘digital detox’, where some readers are consciously choosing to return to physical books as a way to disconnect from screens and enjoy a more tactile, immersive reading experience.
In essence, while digital platforms have undeniably transformed reading habits, offering unprecedented access and new forms of storytelling, they haven’t entirely supplanted traditional reading methods. Instead, we’re seeing a diversification of reading practices, with many readers adopting a hybrid approach, seamlessly switching between digital and physical formats depending on their needs and preferences.”
Describe a sport that you only have watched that you would like to try yourself. Similarly, you might describe a book genre you’ve only read about but would like to explore further, drawing parallels between trying new activities and exploring new literary territories.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
Pique one’s interest /piːk wʌnz ˈɪntrəst/ (phrasal verb): To arouse curiosity or interest.
Example: “The book’s unique premise piqued my interest immediately.”Thought-provoking /ˈθɔːt prəˈvoʊkɪŋ/ (adjective): Stimulating careful consideration or attention.
Example: “I enjoy reading thought-provoking novels that challenge my perspectives.”Delve into /delv ˈɪntu/ (phrasal verb): To examine or investigate thoroughly.
Example: “I can’t wait to delve into the complex themes of this new book.”Profound impact /prəˈfaʊnd ˈɪmpækt/ (noun phrase): A deep or significant effect.
Example: “Reading classic literature has had a profound impact on my worldview.”Broaden one’s horizons /ˈbrɔːdn wʌnz həˈraɪznz/ (idiom): To expand one’s range of interests, experiences, or knowledge.
Example: “I read diverse genres to broaden my horizons and gain new perspectives.”
Key vocabulary for IELTS Speaking: Describing a new book
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when describing a book you plan to read:
Elaborate on your answers: Provide detailed explanations and examples to support your points.
Use a range of vocabulary: Incorporate advanced vocabulary and idiomatic expressions relevant to the topic of reading and literature.
Demonstrate critical thinking: Show that you can analyze the potential impact of the book on your thoughts and actions.
Maintain fluency: Practice speaking at length about books and reading habits to improve your fluency on this topic.
Show enthusiasm: Express genuine interest in the book you’re describing to engage the examiner and showcase your language skills naturally.
Remember, regular practice is key to improving your speaking skills. Try to incorporate these advanced vocabulary items and structures into your everyday English conversations to make them feel more natural during the test.
Describe a place where you go to get away from it all, such as a quiet reading nook or a local library. This can be an excellent way to connect your love for reading with a specific location, demonstrating your ability to speak about multiple related topics.
By following these guidelines and practicing regularly, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle any question about books and reading in your IELTS Speaking test, including describing a new book you plan to read soon.