As an IELTS instructor with over two decades of experience, I’ve encountered a diverse range of questions in the Speaking test. While many focus on familiar topics like hobbies or hometown, some can seem unexpected, even throwing off well-prepared candidates. One such question is “Can you swim?”. You might be wondering, “How does this relate to my English skills?”. The truth is, the examiner isn’t assessing your swimming abilities but rather your capacity to:

Why “Can You Swim?” Matters in IELTS Speaking

1. Handle Unexpected Questions: The IELTS Speaking test aims to evaluate your ability to communicate spontaneously and think on your feet. Unexpected questions assess how well you adapt and formulate coherent responses.
2. Demonstrate Fluency and Coherence: Even with simple questions, the goal is to deliver a smooth and connected response. Stumbling on a question like “Can you swim?” can disrupt your flow and impact your overall performance.
3. Showcase Vocabulary Range: While the question itself is basic, your answer presents an opportunity to use descriptive language and showcase a wider vocabulary related to swimming, sports, or even fears.

Effectively Answering “Can You Swim?” and Similar Questions

1. Don’t Panic: Take a deep breath, even if the question throws you off guard. Remember, it’s more about your communication skills than the specific answer.
2. Be Honest and Direct: Simply state whether you can swim or not. Don’t feel pressured to invent elaborate stories.
3. Elaborate Briefly: After your direct answer, provide a brief explanation or anecdote. For example:
   • “Yes, I can swim. I learned when I was young and enjoy going to the pool.”
   • “No, I can’t swim. I’m actually quite afraid of water.”
   • “I’m not a strong swimmer, but I can manage a few strokes.”
4. Utilize Linking Words: Use transition words to connect your thoughts and create a smooth flow. For instance:
   • “Although I can’t swim…”
   • “In addition to swimming…”
   • “Despite my fear of water…”

ielts speaking test

Example in an IELTS Speaking Context:

Examiner: “Can you swim?”

Candidate: “Actually, no, I can’t swim. I grew up in a landlocked city, so I never really had the opportunity to learn. However, I’d love to try someday, maybe in a controlled environment like a swimming pool.”

Tips for Success:

• Practice Speaking Off the Cuff: Engage in regular conversations on a variety of topics to improve your fluency and ability to respond spontaneously.
• Expand Your Vocabulary: Learn synonyms and related terms for common topics, even seemingly simple ones like sports or hobbies.
• Record Yourself Speaking: This helps identify areas for improvement in pronunciation, fluency, and coherence.
• Don’t Memorize Answers: Focus on developing communication skills rather than rote memorization. Examiners can easily detect memorized responses.

Remember, the IELTS Speaking test is about demonstrating your ability to communicate effectively in English. By approaching each question with confidence, clarity, and a positive attitude, you’ll be well-equipped to succeed.