The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about influential books, making it crucial for candidates to be prepared to discuss literature that has impacted their lives. This topic not only allows you to showcase your language skills but also provides an opportunity to demonstrate critical thinking and personal reflection. In this article, we’ll explore effective strategies to answer questions about impactful books, with a focus on the cue card “Describe a book that had a major impact on your life.”
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In the first part of the IELTS Speaking test, you may encounter questions related to reading habits and preferences. Here are some common questions and suggested answers:
- Do you enjoy reading books?
- What types of books do you usually read?
- How often do you read?
Let’s look at a sample answer for the first question:
Examiner: Do you enjoy reading books?
Candidate (Band 8-9 response): Absolutely! I’m an avid reader and find immense pleasure in exploring different genres and authors. Reading not only broadens my horizons but also serves as a wonderful escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. I particularly enjoy how books can transport me to different worlds and allow me to experience diverse perspectives.
Part 2: Long Turn
Now, let’s focus on the main topic of this article – describing a book that had a major impact on your life. Here’s a sample cue card:
Describe a book that had a major impact on your life
You should say:
- What the book is
- When you read it
- What it is about
- And explain why it had such a big impact on youSample Answer (Band 8-9)
The book that had a profound impact on my life is “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee. I first read this classic American novel when I was in high school, around the age of 16. Set in the 1930s in the Deep South of the United States, the story revolves around Scout Finch, a young girl whose father, Atticus Finch, is a lawyer defending a black man falsely accused of a crime.
What struck me most about this book was its powerful exploration of racial injustice, moral growth, and the loss of innocence. The character of Atticus Finch, in particular, left an indelible mark on me. His unwavering commitment to justice and equality, even in the face of overwhelming societal pressure, taught me the importance of standing up for what’s right, regardless of the consequences.
The impact of this book on my life has been multifaceted. Firstly, it opened my eyes to the harsh realities of racial discrimination and the long-lasting effects of prejudice. This awareness has made me more empathetic and driven me to actively challenge discrimination in my own life and community. Secondly, the book’s emphasis on seeing the world from others’ perspectives – “climbing into someone’s skin and walking around in it,” as Atticus says – has profoundly influenced how I approach relationships and conflicts.
Moreover, the novel’s exploration of moral courage has inspired me to be more principled in my own actions. I’ve found myself reflecting on Atticus’s character in challenging situations, asking myself what the right thing to do is, rather than the easy thing. This has led me to make difficult decisions that align with my values, even when they’re unpopular.
In essence, “To Kill a Mockingbird” didn’t just entertain me; it shaped my worldview, instilled in me a strong sense of justice, and continues to guide my moral compass to this day. It’s a book that I revisit periodically, always finding new insights and drawing fresh inspiration from its timeless themes.
To Kill a Mockingbird book cover illustrating its impact
Follow-up Questions
- How has this book influenced your perspective on social issues?
- Would you recommend this book to others? Why or why not?
Sample answer for question 1 (Band 8-9):
The book has significantly shaped my understanding of social issues, particularly regarding racial inequality and justice. It’s made me more aware of systemic discrimination and the importance of challenging societal norms that perpetuate injustice. Moreover, it’s inspired me to be more proactive in addressing these issues, whether through volunteering, engaging in difficult conversations, or simply being more mindful of my own biases and privileges.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In this section, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:
Examiner: Do you think books have the power to change society?
Candidate (Band 8-9 response): Absolutely, I believe books have an immense potential to instigate social change. Throughout history, we’ve seen numerous examples of books that have sparked revolutions, challenged societal norms, and shifted public opinion on crucial issues. Take George Orwell’s “1984,” for instance. Its vivid portrayal of a dystopian surveillance state has not only entered our cultural lexicon but has also prompted ongoing discussions about privacy and government overreach.
Books have the unique ability to foster empathy by allowing readers to experience different perspectives and realities. This increased understanding can lead to changes in individual behavior, which, when amplified across a population, can result in significant societal shifts. Moreover, books often serve as catalysts for public discourse, bringing important issues to the forefront of social consciousness.
However, it’s important to note that the impact of books on society is not always immediate or direct. Often, their influence is subtle and cumulative, gradually shaping thoughts and attitudes over time. The power of books lies in their ability to plant seeds of ideas that may take years or even generations to fully bloom into societal change.
Examiner: In the age of digital media, do you think traditional books are still relevant?
Candidate (Band 8-9 response): While digital media has undoubtedly transformed our consumption of information, I firmly believe that traditional books remain highly relevant in today’s society. There are several reasons for this enduring relevance.
Firstly, physical books offer a unique, immersive reading experience that digital formats often struggle to replicate. The tactile sensation of turning pages, the ability to easily flip back and forth, and the absence of digital distractions can lead to deeper engagement with the text. This is particularly important for complex or lengthy works that require sustained attention and reflection.
Secondly, traditional books play a crucial role in preserving knowledge and culture. While digital formats are convenient, they’re also vulnerable to technological obsolescence or data loss. Physical books, on the other hand, can last for centuries, ensuring that information and stories are passed down through generations.
Moreover, traditional books contribute to cognitive development in ways that digital media may not. Studies have shown that reading physical books can improve comprehension and retention compared to reading on screens. This is especially significant for children’s literacy development.
That being said, I don’t see it as an either/or situation. Both traditional and digital formats have their place in modern society. The key is to leverage the strengths of each medium. Digital platforms excel at providing quick access to information and reaching wide audiences, while traditional books offer depth, permanence, and a unique reading experience. The coexistence of these formats enriches our literary landscape and caters to diverse reading preferences and needs.
Traditional books and digital devices side by side
Key Vocabulary and Phrases
To enhance your IELTS Speaking performance, consider incorporating these advanced vocabulary items and phrases:
Profound impact (adjective + noun): A very significant or deep effect
Example: The book had a profound impact on my worldview.Indelible mark (adjective + noun): A lasting impression or effect
Example: The character of Atticus Finch left an indelible mark on me.Multifaceted (adjective): Having many different aspects or features
Example: The impact of this book on my life has been multifaceted.To shape one’s worldview (phrase): To influence how someone perceives and interprets the world
Example: Reading diverse literature has shaped my worldview significantly.Moral compass (noun): An inner sense of right and wrong that guides a person’s behavior
Example: The book continues to guide my moral compass to this day.To instigate change (verb phrase): To cause something to happen or begin
Example: Great literature has the power to instigate social change.To foster empathy (verb phrase): To encourage the development of understanding and sharing others’ feelings
Example: Books have the unique ability to foster empathy among readers.
Tips from an IELTS Speaking Examiner
As an experienced IELTS Speaking examiner, I recommend the following strategies to excel in this part of the test:
Practice describing books you’ve read in detail. Focus on not just the plot, but also themes, characters, and your personal reactions.
Develop your ability to discuss abstract concepts related to literature, such as its impact on society or its relevance in the digital age.
Expand your vocabulary, particularly words and phrases related to describing emotions, impacts, and literary themes.
Use specific examples from the book to support your points. This demonstrates both your understanding of the text and your ability to articulate complex ideas.
Practice linking your personal experiences to broader themes in the book. This shows critical thinking and the ability to make connections.
Work on your fluency by regularly discussing books and their impacts with others. This will help you speak more naturally and confidently during the test.
Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is not just about having good language skills, but also about expressing your ideas clearly and engaging with the topic thoughtfully.
For more practice on describing impactful experiences, you might find it helpful to review how to describe a difficult decision you had to make recently. Additionally, to improve your ability to discuss a wide range of topics, you could practice describing a wild animal you have seen or describing a situation when you had to act fast. These exercises will help you develop the versatility needed to excel in the IELTS Speaking test.