The topic of describing a book that had a significant impact on you is a common theme in IELTS Speaking tests. This subject allows examiners to assess your ability to articulate personal experiences, express opinions, and showcase your vocabulary related to literature and emotions. Given its prevalence in past exams, it’s highly likely to appear in future tests as well.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask you some general questions about reading and books. Here’s an example question with a suggested answer:
Question: Do you enjoy reading books?
Answer (Band 7-8):
Absolutely, I’m quite passionate about reading. I find it to be an incredibly enriching experience that not only broadens my knowledge but also stimulates my imagination. I try to dedicate at least an hour each day to reading various genres, from classic literature to contemporary non-fiction. It’s a habit that I believe has significantly contributed to my personal growth and understanding of the world.
Part 2: Long Turn
Cue Card
Describe a book that had a strong impact on you.
You should say:
- What the book was
- When you read it
- What it was about
- And explain why it had such a strong impact on you
Sample Answer (Band 8-9)
I’d like to talk about a book that profoundly influenced my perspective on life – “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee. I first read this renowned classic when I was in high school, about five years ago.
The novel is set in the 1930s in the American South and revolves around the Finch family, particularly the young girl Scout and her father, Atticus. The central theme of the book is racial injustice, as Atticus, a lawyer, defends a black man falsely accused of a crime. Through Scout’s innocent eyes, the reader witnesses the prejudice and discrimination prevalent in society at that time.
This book had an indelible impact on me for several reasons. Firstly, it opened my eyes to the harsh realities of racial discrimination, something I had not personally experienced but could now understand more deeply. The vivid portrayal of the characters and their struggles resonated with me on an emotional level.
Secondly, Atticus Finch’s character left a lasting impression on me. His unwavering integrity, courage, and commitment to justice in the face of societal pressure served as an inspiration. It made me reflect on my own values and the importance of standing up for what’s right, even when it’s difficult.
Lastly, the book’s exploration of empathy, epitomized by the quote “You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view,” had a profound effect on how I approach relationships and conflicts in my own life. It encouraged me to be more compassionate and to try to understand different perspectives before making judgments.
In conclusion, “To Kill a Mockingbird” not only entertained me with its compelling narrative but also challenged my thinking and shaped my moral compass. It’s a book that I frequently revisit and continue to draw lessons from, even years after my first reading.
To Kill a Mockingbird book cover
Follow-up Questions
- Are there any other books that have influenced you significantly?
Answer (Band 7-8):
Yes, absolutely. Another book that had a significant impact on me is “1984” by George Orwell. It opened my eyes to the potential dangers of totalitarian regimes and the importance of individual freedom. The book’s dystopian vision resonated deeply with me, making me more aware of the value of privacy and independent thinking in our increasingly digital world.
- Do you think books can change people’s lives?
Answer (Band 8-9):
I firmly believe that books have the power to transform lives. They can broaden our horizons, challenge our preconceptions, and inspire us to take action. A well-written book can provide new perspectives on life, spark creativity, and even motivate personal growth. For instance, many people report that self-help books have helped them overcome obstacles or achieve their goals. Additionally, literature can foster empathy by allowing us to experience different lives and cultures through characters’ eyes, potentially leading to positive societal changes.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Examiner: Do you think the impact of books on society has decreased with the rise of digital media?
Answer (Band 8-9):
That’s an intriguing question. While it’s true that digital media has transformed the way we consume information, I don’t believe it has necessarily diminished the impact of books on society. Rather, I’d argue that the medium has evolved.
Firstly, e-books and audiobooks have made literature more accessible than ever before. People can now carry entire libraries on their devices, potentially increasing their exposure to a diverse range of ideas and perspectives.
Secondly, social media platforms have created new ways for readers to engage with books and authors. Online book clubs and literary discussions can amplify a book’s impact, allowing ideas to spread rapidly and generate wider conversations.
However, it’s worth noting that the rise of short-form content and quick information consumption habits might affect the depth of engagement with longer texts. This could potentially reduce the profound impact that comes from immersing oneself in a book over an extended period.
In conclusion, while the format and consumption patterns may have changed, I believe books continue to play a crucial role in shaping societal thoughts and values, albeit in new and evolving ways.
Digital vs traditional reading comparison
Examiner: How do you think reading habits will change in the future?
Answer (Band 7-8):
I believe reading habits will continue to evolve with technological advancements. We might see a further shift towards digital formats, with more interactive e-books that incorporate multimedia elements. Artificial intelligence could personalize reading experiences, suggesting books based on individual preferences and even adapting content in real-time.
However, I also think there might be a countermovement valuing traditional print books as a way to disconnect from screens. We might see a balance between digital and print, with people choosing different formats for different purposes or moods.
Ultimately, while the medium may change, the fundamental human desire for stories and knowledge will likely ensure that reading remains an important part of our lives.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
Profoundly influenced (adv. + v.) – /prəˈfaʊndli ˈɪnfluənst/: Had a deep and significant effect on.
Example: The book profoundly influenced my career choice.Resonated with (v.) – /ˈrezəneɪtɪd wɪð/: To evoke a feeling of shared emotion or belief.
Example: The character’s struggles resonated with my own experiences.Indelible impact (adj. + n.) – /ɪnˈdelɪbl ˈɪmpækt/: A lasting, unforgettable effect.
Example: The novel’s message had an indelible impact on my worldview.Broadened my horizons (v. + n.) – /ˈbrɔːdnd maɪ həˈraɪznz/: Expanded one’s range of knowledge, interests, or experiences.
Example: Reading widely has broadened my horizons and made me more open-minded.Shaped my moral compass (v. + n.) – /ʃeɪpt maɪ ˈmɒrəl ˈkʌmpəs/: Influenced one’s sense of right and wrong.
Example: The ethical dilemmas presented in the story shaped my moral compass.
These phrases can help you articulate your thoughts more eloquently and demonstrate a sophisticated command of English, which is crucial for achieving high scores in the IELTS Speaking test.
Examiner’s Advice
To excel in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when discussing books and their impact:
Practice regularly: Familiarize yourself with common book-related vocabulary and phrases. Describe an inspirational quote you read to enhance your ability to express impactful ideas.
Develop your ideas: Don’t just state facts about the book. Explain your thoughts, feelings, and the reasons behind the book’s impact on you.
Use a variety of sentence structures: Mix simple and complex sentences to demonstrate your language proficiency.
Incorporate personal anecdotes: Relate the book’s themes or lessons to your own life experiences. This shows the examiner you can connect ideas and speak naturally about personal topics.
Be prepared for follow-up questions: Think about broader themes related to reading and literature. Consider how a person who has a deep understanding of different cultures might approach literature from various backgrounds.
Maintain fluency: Even if you’re unsure about a word or phrase, try to keep speaking. Use fillers naturally if you need time to think.
Show enthusiasm: Demonstrate genuine interest in the topic. Your engagement can positively influence the examiner’s perception of your speaking skills.
Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is not just about what you say, but how you say it. Describe a person who is good at teaching others might help you articulate how authors effectively convey their messages through books. Practice these strategies, and you’ll be well-prepared to discuss the impact of books in your IELTS Speaking test.