Describing a book you want to read in the future is a common topic in IELTS Speaking tests. This theme allows examiners to assess your ability to articulate preferences, discuss literature, and express future intentions. Given its frequency in past exams, it’s likely to appear in future tests as well. Let’s explore how to excel in this topic and boost your IELTS Speaking score.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about books and reading habits. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:

Q: Do you enjoy reading books?

Band 6-7 Answer: Yes, I do enjoy reading books. I find it relaxing and a good way to learn new things. I try to read at least one book a month, usually fiction novels.

Band 8-9 Answer: Absolutely! I’m an avid reader and find immense pleasure in exploring different literary worlds. Reading not only broadens my horizons but also enhances my critical thinking skills. I make it a point to delve into various genres, from classic literature to contemporary non-fiction, to maintain a well-rounded perspective.

Part 2: Long Turn

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

Describe a book you want to read in the future
You should say:

• What the book is about
• Why you want to read it
• Where you heard about this book
• And explain how you think this book will impact you

Sample Answer (Band 6-7):

I’d like to talk about a book I’m planning to read called “Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind” by Yuval Noah Harari. It’s a non-fiction book that explores the history of human beings from ancient times to the present day.

I want to read this book because I’m fascinated by history and human evolution. I’ve heard that it offers a unique perspective on how humans have developed over time, which I find intriguing.

I first heard about this book from a friend who couldn’t stop raving about it. He said it changed the way he thinks about human society and our place in the world.

I think this book will have a significant impact on me. It might challenge my existing beliefs about human history and make me think differently about our society today. I’m looking forward to gaining new insights and perhaps even changing some of my opinions based on what I learn.

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):

I’m eagerly anticipating delving into “The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks” by Rebecca Skloot. This non-fiction work meticulously chronicles the story of Henrietta Lacks, an African American woman whose cells were taken without her knowledge in the 1950s and became one of the most important tools in medicine.

My fervent desire to read this book stems from its unique intersection of science, ethics, and racial issues in medical history. As someone with a keen interest in bioethics, I find the book’s exploration of the ethical implications of using human cells for research without consent particularly compelling.

I first stumbled upon this book while perusing a list of influential science books in a reputable scientific journal. The glowing reviews and its widespread acclaim in both scientific and literary circles piqued my interest immensely.

I anticipate that this book will have a profound impact on my understanding of medical ethics and the historical context of racial disparities in healthcare. It’s likely to challenge my preconceptions about informed consent in medical research and deepen my appreciation for the complex interplay between scientific progress and individual rights. Moreover, I believe it will enhance my critical thinking skills by encouraging me to consider multiple perspectives on these sensitive issues.

Follow-up Questions:

1. How do you think this book might change your perspective on scientific research?
2. Do you prefer to read physical books or e-books? Why?

Band 6-7 Answer: I think this book might make me more aware of the ethical issues in scientific research. As for reading preferences, I prefer physical books because I like the feel of turning pages and it’s easier on my eyes.

Band 8-9 Answer: This book is likely to profoundly alter my perspective on scientific research by illuminating the human stories behind groundbreaking discoveries. It may compel me to scrutinize the ethical implications of research methodologies more critically. Regarding reading preferences, I find myself gravitating towards physical books for their tactile experience and the sense of disconnection from digital distractions they provide. However, I also appreciate the convenience of e-books, especially when traveling or accessing rare texts.

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

Q: How do you think technology has changed the way people read books?

Band 6-7 Answer: Technology has definitely changed how we read books. E-readers and tablets make it easy to carry many books at once. People can also read on their phones now, which is convenient. However, some people still prefer traditional paper books.

Band 8-9 Answer: Technology has revolutionized the reading landscape in multifaceted ways. E-readers and tablets have democratized access to literature, allowing readers to carry entire libraries in their pockets. This ubiquitous availability has led to increased reading frequency for many. Moreover, features like adjustable font sizes and built-in dictionaries have enhanced accessibility, particularly for those with visual impairments or learning difficulties. However, this digital shift has also sparked debates about information retention and the tactile experience of reading. Some studies suggest that deep reading and comprehension may be compromised in digital formats, leading to a resurgence in appreciation for physical books among certain demographics.

Q: Do you think reading habits differ between generations? How?

Band 6-7 Answer: Yes, I think reading habits are different between generations. Younger people seem to read more on devices, while older generations often prefer physical books. Also, younger people might read more short-form content online, like articles and blogs.

Band 8-9 Answer: Indeed, there are discernible disparities in reading habits across generations, shaped by technological advancements and cultural shifts. The digital native generation tends to gravitate towards multimedia content and interactive reading experiences, often seamlessly integrating reading with other forms of digital consumption. They’re more likely to engage with bite-sized content and collaborative reading platforms. In contrast, older generations often exhibit a predilection for traditional, long-form reading, valuing the immersive experience of physical books. However, it’s crucial to avoid overgeneralization, as individual preferences can transcend generational boundaries. The convergence of these diverse reading styles is fostering interesting innovations in publishing, such as enhanced e-books and hybrid reading experiences.

Key Vocabulary and Phrases

1. Meticulously chronicle (phrasal verb): To record or report something in careful detail.
   Pronunciation: /məˈtɪkjələsli ˈkrɒnɪkl/
   Example: The author meticulously chronicled the events leading up to the revolution.

2. Fervent desire (adjective + noun): A very strong or passionate wish.
   Pronunciation: /ˈfɜːrvənt dɪˈzaɪər/
   Example: Her fervent desire to succeed drove her to work tirelessly.

3. Pique one’s interest (idiom): To stimulate or arouse curiosity or interest.
   Pronunciation: /piːk wʌnz ˈɪntrəst/
   Example: The mysterious title piqued my interest, and I had to read more.

4. Profound impact (adjective + noun): A very significant or deep effect.
   Pronunciation: /prəˈfaʊnd ˈɪmpækt/
   Example: Reading that book had a profound impact on my worldview.

5. Deepen one’s appreciation (phrasal verb): To increase understanding or gratitude for something.
   Pronunciation: /ˈdiːpən wʌnz əˌpriːʃiˈeɪʃn/
   Example: Studying art history deepened my appreciation for Renaissance paintings.

IELTS Speaking vocabulary for books and reading

Examiner’s Advice

To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test when describing a book you want to read:

1. Elaborate on your answers: Don’t just state facts; explain your reasoning and feelings.
2. Use a variety of vocabulary: Incorporate advanced words and phrases related to literature and reading.
3. Maintain fluency: Practice speaking about books to improve your ability to discuss them smoothly.
4. Show enthusiasm: Genuine interest in the topic can positively impact your score.
5. Connect ideas: Link your thoughts coherently, especially when moving between different aspects of the book or your reasons for wanting to read it.

Remember, the key to success lies in describing a book character you relate to effectively and demonstrating your language skills through thoughtful, well-articulated responses. With practice and the right approach, you can describe a habit you want to develop – in this case, the habit of reading challenging books – and excel in your IELTS Speaking test.