As an experienced IELTS examiner, I’ve seen many candidates struggle with the speaking section, particularly when asked to describe a book or article that had a lasting impact on them. This topic has been a popular choice in past IELTS exams and is likely to appear in future tests as well. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll provide you with strategies, sample answers, and key vocabulary to help you excel in this task.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

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

Q: Do you enjoy reading?

Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I do enjoy reading. I try to read a bit every day, usually before bed. It helps me relax and learn new things.

Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely! I’m an avid reader and find immense pleasure in diving into various genres. Reading not only broadens my horizons but also serves as a form of escapism and intellectual stimulation. I make it a point to dedicate at least an hour each day to reading, whether it’s a novel, a non-fiction book, or even thought-provoking articles online.

Q: What kind of books or articles do you prefer?

Band 6-7 Answer:
I like reading fiction books, especially mystery novels. They’re exciting and keep me guessing until the end.

Band 8-9 Answer:
I have quite eclectic tastes when it comes to reading material. While I have a particular fondness for thought-provoking non-fiction works on psychology and sociology, I also enjoy immersing myself in well-crafted fiction. Recently, I’ve been drawn to long-form journalism articles that offer in-depth analysis of current events and societal issues. I find that this diverse reading diet helps me maintain a well-rounded perspective on the world.

Impactful book

Part 2: Long Turn

Cue Card

Describe A Book Or Article That Had A Lasting Impact On You.

You should say:

• What the book or article was about
• When you read it
• Why you decided to read it
• And explain why it had such an impact on you

Sample Answer (Band 6-7)

The book that had a big impact on me is “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho. I read it about two years ago when I was feeling a bit lost in my life. A friend recommended it to me, saying it might help me find some direction.

The book is about a young shepherd who goes on a journey to find his personal legend, which is like his life’s purpose. He faces many challenges and learns important lessons along the way.

I decided to read it because I was looking for some inspiration and guidance. I was at a point where I didn’t know what to do with my future, and this book seemed like it might help.

It had a big impact on me because it taught me about following my dreams and trusting the journey of life. The main character’s determination and faith inspired me to be braver in pursuing my own goals. After reading it, I felt more confident about making decisions and taking risks.

The book also made me think more about the importance of listening to my heart and paying attention to signs around me. It changed how I view obstacles, seeing them as opportunities to learn and grow rather than just problems.

Overall, “The Alchemist” helped me to have a more positive outlook on life and encouraged me to believe in myself more. It’s a book I often think about when I face difficult choices or need some motivation.

Sample Answer (Band 8-9)

The piece of literature that has had a profound and lasting impact on me is “Man’s Search for Meaning” by Viktor E. Frankl. I delved into this remarkable work about three years ago during a period of introspection and personal growth.

This book is a poignant memoir coupled with psychological insights, chronicling Frankl’s experiences as a prisoner in Nazi concentration camps during World War II. However, it goes beyond a mere historical account. Frankl, a psychiatrist, uses his harrowing experiences to develop a psychological approach known as logotherapy, which focuses on the search for life’s meaning as a primary motivational force in humans.

My decision to read this book was prompted by a recommendation from my psychology professor. She emphasized its significance not just in the field of psychology, but as a transformative text for personal development and understanding the human condition.

The impact of this book on me has been immeasurable and multifaceted. Firstly, it fundamentally shifted my perspective on suffering and adversity. Frankl’s assertion that we cannot avoid suffering but we can choose how to cope with it, find meaning in it, and move forward with renewed purpose, was incredibly enlightening. This idea has profoundly influenced how I approach challenges in my own life.

Moreover, the book instilled in me a deep appreciation for the power of purpose. Frankl’s observation that those who had a ‘why’ to live could bear almost any ‘how’ resonated deeply with me. It prompted me to reflect on my own sources of meaning and to cultivate a clearer sense of purpose in my personal and professional endeavors.

Additionally, Frankl’s emphasis on the importance of human dignity and compassion, even in the most dire circumstances, served as a powerful reminder of our capacity for resilience and kindness. It has inspired me to be more empathetic and to strive to make a positive impact on others, no matter how small.

In essence, “Man’s Search for Meaning” didn’t just inform me; it transformed me. It provided a framework for understanding life’s challenges, fostered a deeper sense of empathy, and ignited a passion for finding and creating meaning in my own life and the lives of others. The lessons from this book continue to guide my actions and shape my worldview, making it truly a work that has had a lasting and profound impact on me.

Follow-up Questions

1. How has this book or article changed your perspective on life?

Band 6-7 Answer:
The book changed how I see challenges. Now I try to learn from difficult situations instead of just complaining about them. It also made me think more about what I really want in life.

Band 8-9 Answer:
This book has fundamentally altered my worldview in several ways. Primarily, it has instilled in me a profound appreciation for the power of perspective in shaping our experiences. Frankl’s ability to find meaning and maintain his humanity in the most inhumane conditions serves as a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit. This has led me to approach adversities in my own life with a more constructive mindset, seeking growth and meaning even in challenging circumstances.

Moreover, it has deepened my understanding of the importance of purpose in one’s life. The book has motivated me to continually reflect on and refine my personal goals and values, ensuring that I’m living a life aligned with what truly matters to me. This shift has had a cascading effect on my decision-making processes, relationships, and overall life satisfaction.

2. Do you think books or articles can have a significant impact on society as a whole?

Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I think books and articles can have a big impact on society. They can spread new ideas and make people think differently about important issues. Some books have even started social movements or changed laws.

Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely, I believe that books and articles have the potential to profoundly influence society on multiple levels. Historically, we’ve seen how seminal works like “Uncle Tom’s Cabin” by Harriet Beecher Stowe played a pivotal role in shaping public opinion about slavery in the United States, or how Rachel Carson’s “Silent Spring” catalyzed the environmental movement.

In contemporary times, books and articles continue to wield significant power in shaping public discourse and driving social change. They can bring attention to overlooked issues, challenge prevailing narratives, and offer new perspectives on complex problems. For instance, books on climate change have helped to galvanize global action, while articles exposing corporate or government misconduct have led to policy reforms.

Moreover, in the digital age, the impact of written works can be even more immediate and far-reaching. A single article can go viral, sparking worldwide conversations and movements. We’ve seen this with pieces on social justice issues, which have contributed to the rise of movements like Black Lives Matter or #MeToo.

However, it’s important to note that with this power comes responsibility. The proliferation of misinformation through written works can also have detrimental effects on society. Therefore, it’s crucial for readers to approach texts critically and for writers to uphold high standards of accuracy and integrity.

In essence, books and articles are not just passive reflections of society, but active agents in shaping it. They have the power to inform, inspire, and instigate change, making them invaluable tools for social progress and intellectual advancement.

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

Q: How do you think reading habits have changed in the digital age?

Band 6-7 Answer:
I think people read more on screens now, like on phones and tablets. They might read shorter articles instead of long books. Also, e-books are popular because they’re easy to carry around.

Band 8-9 Answer:
The digital age has fundamentally transformed reading habits in several significant ways. Firstly, there’s been a notable shift towards digital platforms, with e-books, online articles, and digital magazines gaining prominence. This transition has made literature more accessible than ever before, allowing readers to carry entire libraries in their pockets.

However, this convenience has also led to changes in how we consume written content. There’s a growing tendency towards shorter-form content, with many readers preferring bite-sized articles or summarized versions of longer works. This trend aligns with the fast-paced nature of modern life and the abundance of information available at our fingertips.

Another interesting development is the rise of social reading. Platforms like Goodreads and online book clubs have created communities around reading, allowing people to share recommendations, discuss books, and engage with authors in ways that weren’t possible before.

On the flip side, the digital age has also brought challenges. The constant connectivity and multitude of distractions can make it harder for some to engage in deep, focused reading. There are concerns about declining attention spans and the ability to absorb complex, lengthy texts.

Despite these changes, I believe that reading remains as crucial as ever. The key lies in striking a balance between embracing the benefits of digital reading while preserving the value of traditional, immersive reading experiences.

Q: In your opinion, what makes a book or article truly impactful?

Band 6-7 Answer:
I think a book or article is impactful when it makes you think differently about something. It should have new ideas or present information in a way that’s easy to understand. Also, if it connects with your personal experiences, it can be very powerful.

Band 8-9 Answer:
In my view, the true impact of a book or article stems from a combination of factors that coalesce to create a transformative experience for the reader.

Firstly, originality and novelty play a crucial role. A truly impactful work often presents a fresh perspective or introduces groundbreaking ideas that challenge our existing beliefs and paradigms. It should provoke thought and encourage readers to question their assumptions.

Secondly, the quality of writing is paramount. Eloquent prose that is both accessible and profound can elevate a work from merely informative to truly inspiring. The ability to articulate complex ideas in a clear, engaging manner is a hallmark of impactful writing.

Moreover, timeliness and relevance are key factors. A book or article that addresses pressing issues or taps into the zeitgeist of a particular era often resonates more deeply with readers. However, truly impactful works also possess a timeless quality, offering insights that remain relevant across generations.

Emotional resonance is another crucial element. Works that evoke strong emotions, whether through compelling storytelling or powerful argumentation, tend to leave a lasting impression. This emotional connection often serves as a catalyst for personal growth or societal change.

Lastly, practical applicability can significantly enhance a work’s impact. Books or articles that offer actionable insights or provide frameworks for understanding and navigating complex issues can empower readers to make tangible changes in their lives or in society.

In essence, a truly impactful book or article transcends mere information delivery. It challenges, inspires, and transforms the reader, leaving an indelible mark on their thinking and potentially spurring them towards meaningful action.

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

1. Profound impact (adj. + n.): A very deep or significant effect
   Example: The book had a profound impact on my worldview.

2. To delve into (phrasal verb): To examine or investigate something thoroughly
   Example: I delved into the author’s background to better understand their perspective.

3. Poignant (adj.): Evoking a keen sense of sadness or regret
   Example: The memoir was a poignant reflection on the author’s experiences during the war.

4. To resonate with (v.): To evoke or suggest images, memories, and emotions
   Example: The character’s struggles resonated with my own experiences.

5. To foster (v.): To encourage or promote the development of something
   Example: The book fostered a deeper understanding of cultural differences.

6. Paradigm shift (n.): A fundamental change in approach or underlying assumptions
   Example: Reading this article resulted in a paradigm shift in how I view climate change.

7. To galvanize (v.): To shock or excite someone into taking action
   Example: The author’s powerful arguments galvanized readers to join the movement.

8. Thought-provoking (adj.): Stimulating careful consideration or attention
   Example: The book raised several thought-provoking questions about modern society.

9. To challenge preconceptions (v. + n.): To test or dispute previously held ideas
   Example: This groundbreaking research challenged many preconceptions about human behavior.

10. To broaden horizons (v. + n.): To expand or widen one’s range of experiences, interests, or knowledge
    Example: Exploring diverse genres of literature has really broadened my horizons.

Examiner’s Advice

To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test when describing a book or article that had a lasting impact on you:

1. Prepare thoroughly: Think about different books or articles that have influenced you and practice describing them.

2. Use sophisticated vocabulary: Incorporate advanced words and phrases naturally in your responses.

3. Provide specific details: Don’t just give general statements; include concrete examples and personal anecdotes.

4. Show depth of analysis: Explain not just what happened, but why it was impactful and how it changed your perspective.

5. Maintain fluency: Practice speaking continuously for 2 minutes without long pauses or repetition.

6. Use a variety of grammatical structures: Demonstrate your command of English by using complex sentences and different tenses appropriately.

7. Stay relevant: Always keep your answers focused on the question asked.

8. Be authentic: While it’s good to prepare, make sure your responses sound natural and genuine.

Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is not just about what you say, but how you say it. Confidence, clarity, and coherence are just as important as the content of your answers.

For more tips on improving your IELTS Speaking skills, you might find these articles helpful:

• Describing a Person Who Has Influenced Your Worldview
• Discussing a Person Who Has Taught You an Important Life Lesson

By following these guidelines and practicing regularly, you’ll be well-prepared to discuss impactful books or articles in your IELTS Speaking test and achieve a high score.