The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about influential people in our lives, particularly those who have taught us valuable skills. This topic is a common one, appearing frequently in past exams and likely to remain relevant in future tests. The ability to describe such a person eloquently can significantly boost your speaking score.
Describe a person you consider a mentor is a closely related topic that can help you prepare for this question. Let’s explore how to tackle this subject effectively in each part of the IELTS Speaking test.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about learning and skills. Here’s an example question with a suggested answer:
Q: Do you enjoy learning new skills?
A: Absolutely, I’m quite passionate about acquiring new abilities. There’s something incredibly rewarding about mastering a skill you didn’t have before. It not only broadens your horizons but also boosts your confidence. Recently, I’ve been learning to play the guitar, and while it’s challenging, the sense of accomplishment when I play a new chord correctly is unparalleled.
Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)
Here’s a sample cue card related to our topic:
Describe a person who has taught you an important skill
You should say:
- Who this person is
- What skill they taught you
- How they taught you
- And explain why this skill is important to you
Sample Answer (Band 6-7):
The person I’d like to talk about is my uncle, John. He’s been a professional photographer for over 20 years, and he taught me the basics of photography.
It all started when I expressed interest in taking better photos during a family gathering. Uncle John offered to teach me, and over the next few weekends, he showed me how to use a DSLR camera properly. He explained concepts like aperture, shutter speed, and ISO, which form the foundation of photography.
His teaching method was very hands-on. We’d go out to different locations, and he’d demonstrate various techniques. Then, he’d let me practice while giving feedback. He was patient and always encouraged me to experiment.
This skill is important to me because it’s not just about taking photos. It’s taught me to pay attention to details, to be patient, and to see beauty in everyday things. It’s also given me a creative outlet that I really enjoy.
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
I’d be delighted to share my experience about learning an invaluable skill from someone who has had a profound impact on my life. The individual I’m referring to is my uncle, John, a seasoned professional photographer with over two decades of experience in the field.
It all began serendipitously at a family gathering where I expressed my keen interest in elevating my photography skills. Uncle John, with his characteristic enthusiasm, offered to take me under his wing and impart his extensive knowledge.
Over the course of several weekends, Uncle John meticulously guided me through the intricacies of using a DSLR camera. He elucidated complex concepts such as aperture, shutter speed, and ISO, which form the triumvirate of foundational knowledge in photography. His approach was remarkably hands-on; we would venture out to diverse locations where he would demonstrate various techniques with precision, allowing me to observe and then practice under his watchful eye.
What struck me most about his teaching method was his inexhaustible patience and his constant encouragement to push boundaries and experiment. He fostered an environment where mistakes were viewed as learning opportunities rather than failures.
The importance of this skill in my life cannot be overstated. It has transcended mere photo-taking and has fundamentally altered my perception of the world. It has honed my ability to notice intricate details, cultivated patience, and enabled me to discern beauty in the mundane. Moreover, it has provided me with a creative outlet that serves as a form of self-expression and stress relief.
Describe a time when you faced a challenge and succeeded could be a great topic to discuss how you overcame initial difficulties in learning this new skill.
Follow-up Questions:
Q: How has this skill changed your daily life?
A (Band 6-7): This skill has made me more observant. I notice things I didn’t before, like how light falls on objects or interesting patterns in nature. I also take more photos now, which helps me remember special moments better.
A (Band 8-9): The acquisition of this skill has had a transformative effect on my daily life. It has sharpened my observational skills to a remarkable degree. I find myself constantly noticing subtle interplays of light and shadow, intriguing geometric patterns in urban architecture, and the fleeting beauty of everyday moments that I might have previously overlooked. Moreover, the act of photography has become a form of mindfulness practice for me, allowing me to be fully present and engaged with my surroundings. It has also enhanced my ability to visually communicate ideas and emotions, a skill that has proven invaluable in both my personal and professional life.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Q: Do you think it’s better to learn skills from professionals or from friends and family?
A (Band 6-7): I think both have their advantages. Professionals usually have more in-depth knowledge and can teach you the correct techniques from the start. But learning from friends and family can be more comfortable and less pressured. It also depends on the skill you’re trying to learn.
A (Band 8-9): This is a nuanced question that warrants careful consideration. Learning from professionals undoubtedly offers distinct advantages, primarily their comprehensive knowledge base and expertise in teaching specific techniques effectively. They can provide structured learning experiences and expose students to industry standards and best practices.
However, learning from friends and family shouldn’t be underestimated. This approach often creates a more relaxed, pressure-free environment conducive to learning. It can also foster deeper personal connections and provide opportunities for continuous, informal learning.
Ultimately, the ideal learning scenario might involve a combination of both. One could start with basics from family or friends, then seek professional instruction to refine skills and gain advanced knowledge. The choice largely depends on the complexity of the skill, the learner’s goals, and the resources available.
Describe a subject in school that you found very engaging is another topic where you can discuss learning experiences and skills acquisition in a different context.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
Meticulously /məˈtɪkjələsli/ (adverb): In a way that shows great attention to detail.
Example: He meticulously explained each step of the process.Elucidate /ɪˈluːsɪdeɪt/ (verb): To explain or make something clear.
Example: The professor elucidated complex theories in simple terms.Inexhaustible /ˌɪnɪɡˈzɔːstəbl/ (adjective): Never-ending; impossible to use up.
Example: She had an inexhaustible supply of patience when teaching beginners.Transcend /trænˈsend/ (verb): To go beyond the usual limits of something.
Example: The skills I learned transcended photography and impacted other areas of my life.Nuanced /ˈnjuːɑːnst/ (adjective): Characterized by subtle shades of meaning or expression.
Example: He gave a nuanced explanation of the topic, covering various perspectives.
Describe a book that left a lasting impression on you could be an excellent opportunity to practice using some of these advanced vocabulary words in a different context.
A mentor teaching photography skills to a student
Examiner’s Advice
To excel in describing a person who has taught you an important skill:
- Be specific: Provide detailed examples of what and how you learned.
- Show enthusiasm: Demonstrate genuine interest in the skill and appreciation for the teacher.
- Use varied vocabulary: Incorporate advanced words and phrases related to learning and skill development.
- Highlight the impact: Explain how acquiring this skill has affected your life.
- Practice fluency: Aim for smooth delivery with minimal hesitation.
Remember, the key to a high score lies not just in what you say, but how you say it. Confidence, fluency, and the ability to express complex ideas clearly are crucial factors that examiners look for.