Learning experiences outside the classroom can be incredibly valuable and are often a popular topic in IELTS Speaking tests. This question allows candidates to showcase their ability to narrate personal experiences while demonstrating their language skills. Let’s explore how to effectively answer this question and achieve a high band score.

Describe an English lesson that you really enjoyed can be a great way to prepare for this topic, as it also involves discussing a learning experience.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In Part 1, the examiner may ask some general questions about learning outside of school. Here are some possible questions:

1. Do you enjoy learning new things outside of school?
2. What was the last thing you learned outside of school?
3. How do you prefer to learn new skills?

Let’s look at a sample answer for question 2:

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“The last thing I learned outside of school was actually how to make sourdough bread. During the pandemic lockdown, I became fascinated with baking and decided to tackle this challenging recipe. It was a steep learning curve, but through online tutorials and a lot of trial and error, I eventually mastered the technique. It was incredibly rewarding to see (and taste!) the results of my efforts.”

Part 2: Long Turn

Here’s a sample cue card for this topic:

Describe A Time When You Learned Something Outside Of School
You should say:

• What you learned
• How you learned it
• Why you decided to learn it
• And explain how you felt about the experience

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):

“I’d like to talk about the time I taught myself how to play the guitar. It was something I’d always been passionate about, but never had the opportunity to learn formally.

I decided to take the plunge about two years ago when I found an old guitar in my uncle’s attic. The prospect of being able to play my favorite songs was incredibly enticing, so I set my mind to it.

My learning journey was primarily self-directed. I started with online tutorials and YouTube videos, which were invaluable resources. I also downloaded a guitar tuning app and used various websites with chord diagrams. It was a mix of visual and auditory learning, which suited my style perfectly.

The reason I decided to learn was twofold. Firstly, I’ve always been drawn to music and wanted to be able to create it myself. Secondly, I saw it as a productive way to spend my free time, especially during the evenings when I needed to unwind after work.

The experience was both challenging and rewarding. In the beginning, my fingers would ache after practicing, and some chords seemed impossible to master. However, the sense of achievement I felt when I could finally play a full song was indescribable. It boosted my confidence and made me realize that with perseverance and dedication, I could learn anything I set my mind to.

Overall, learning to play the guitar has been an enriching experience. It’s not only given me a new skill but also a way to express myself creatively and connect with others who share the same passion. It’s truly been one of the most fulfilling things I’ve ever learned outside of a formal educational setting.”

Describe a time when you went out of your comfort zone is another topic that could relate to learning new things, as it often involves challenging yourself in unfamiliar situations.

Examiner’s follow-up questions:

1. Do you think it’s important to continue learning outside of formal education?
2. What are some challenges people face when learning new skills on their own?

Sample Answers:

1. (Band 8-9) “Absolutely. Continuous learning is crucial in today’s rapidly changing world. It helps us stay adaptable, broaden our horizons, and keep our minds sharp. Learning outside formal education also allows us to pursue our passions and develop skills that may not be covered in traditional curricula, which can be immensely fulfilling on a personal level and potentially beneficial for our careers.”

2. (Band 8-9) “Self-directed learning comes with its own set of challenges. Firstly, maintaining motivation can be difficult without the structure of a formal class or deadlines. Secondly, learners might struggle with self-discipline and time management. Another significant challenge is the lack of immediate feedback or guidance, which can lead to uncertainty about progress or the development of bad habits. Lastly, information overload can be overwhelming, especially online, making it hard to discern quality resources from unreliable ones.”

Woman learning guitar through online tutorials

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

In Part 3, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to learning outside of school. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:

1. How has technology changed the way people learn outside of school?

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“Technology has revolutionized self-directed learning in numerous ways. Online platforms and mobile apps have made education more accessible and flexible than ever before. People can now learn at their own pace, from anywhere in the world, often for free or at a fraction of the cost of traditional education. Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) offered by prestigious universities have democratized access to high-quality education. Moreover, interactive tools and gamification have made learning more engaging and enjoyable. Virtual and augmented reality are also beginning to play a role, offering immersive learning experiences. However, this abundance of resources also means learners need to develop strong digital literacy and critical thinking skills to navigate and evaluate the vast amount of information available.”

2. Do you think informal learning experiences are as valuable as formal education?

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I believe both formal and informal learning experiences have their own unique value. Formal education provides a structured curriculum, expert guidance, and recognized qualifications, which are often crucial for career advancement. It also offers a collaborative learning environment and opportunities for networking.

On the other hand, informal learning can be more tailored to individual interests and learning styles. It often promotes self-motivation, creativity, and problem-solving skills. Informal learning experiences, such as travel or hands-on projects, can provide practical, real-world knowledge that may be more immediately applicable than theoretical classroom learning.

In today’s rapidly changing job market, a combination of both is likely the most beneficial approach. Formal education provides a solid foundation, while informal learning allows individuals to stay current, adapt to new technologies, and develop soft skills that are increasingly valued by employers.

Ultimately, the value of any learning experience depends on how effectively it’s applied. An informal learning experience that leads to a innovative solution or a career breakthrough could be just as valuable, if not more so, than a formal degree in certain contexts.”

Describe a special moment with a childhood friend can also involve learning experiences, as childhood friendships often teach us important life lessons.

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

To achieve a high band score, it’s crucial to use a range of vocabulary and complex structures. Here are some key terms and phrases that can elevate your response:

1. Self-directed learning /ˌself daɪˈrektɪd ˈlɜːrnɪŋ/ (noun): The process of taking the initiative and responsibility for learning.
   Example: “I prefer self-directed learning as it allows me to set my own pace and focus on areas I find most interesting.”

2. To delve into /delv ˈɪntuː/ (phrasal verb): To examine or investigate something thoroughly.
   Example: “I decided to delve into the world of photography as a hobby.”

3. Steep learning curve /stiːp ˈlɜːrnɪŋ kɜːrv/ (idiom): A difficult and rapid learning process.
   Example: “Learning to code was a steep learning curve, but it was ultimately rewarding.”

4. To broaden one’s horizons /ˈbrɔːdn wʌnz həˈraɪznz/ (idiom): To expand one’s range of interests, experiences, and knowledge.
   Example: “Traveling abroad really helped me broaden my horizons and gain new perspectives.”

5. Hands-on experience /ˌhændz ˈɒn ɪkˈspɪəriəns/ (noun): Practical experience of doing something rather than just reading about it.
   Example: “The internship provided valuable hands-on experience that complemented my theoretical knowledge.”

Describe an important lesson you learned in school is another topic that can help you practice discussing learning experiences, albeit in a different context.

Examiner’s Advice

To excel in the IELTS Speaking test when discussing learning experiences outside of school:

1. Be specific: Provide concrete details about what you learned, how you learned it, and the impact it had on you.

2. Use a range of tenses: Incorporate past, present, and future tenses to show your language versatility.

3. Employ idiomatic expressions: Use natural, native-like phrases to enhance your fluency score.

4. Demonstrate critical thinking: Reflect on the pros and cons of self-directed learning versus formal education.

5. Practice coherence: Ensure your ideas flow logically from one to the next, using appropriate linking words and phrases.

6. Show enthusiasm: Examiners appreciate candidates who speak passionately about their learning experiences.

7. Prepare examples: Have a few learning experiences ready to discuss, as this topic could come up in various forms.

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

Describe a person who has a positive attitude can be related to learning experiences, as a positive attitude often contributes to successful self-directed learning.

Man practicing a new skill in a workshop

By following these guidelines and incorporating rich vocabulary and complex structures, you’ll be well-prepared to discuss your learning experiences outside of school in the IELTS Speaking test. Remember to practice regularly and seek feedback to continually improve your performance.