Reading is a gateway to knowledge and personal growth. In IELTS Speaking tests, questions about books are common and can appear in any part of the exam. This topic allows candidates to showcase their vocabulary, cultural awareness, and ability to articulate complex ideas. Let’s explore how to excel in answering questions about a useful book you’ve read.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about reading habits. Here’s a sample question with a suggested answer:

Examiner: Do you enjoy reading books?

Band 6-7 Answer:
“Yes, I do enjoy reading books. I try to read regularly, usually in the evenings before bed. I find it relaxing and a good way to learn new things.”

Band 8-9 Answer:
“Absolutely! I’m an avid reader and I make it a point to dedicate at least an hour each day to reading. It’s not just a hobby for me, but a vital part of my personal growth. I find that books offer a unique opportunity to expand my horizons and gain insights into different perspectives and cultures.”

IELTS Speaking Examiner asking a question

Part 2: Long Turn

In this part, you’ll be given a cue card with a topic to speak about for 1-2 minutes. Here’s a sample cue card related to our theme:

Describe A Book You Read And Found Useful

You should say:

• What the book was
• When you read it
• What it was about
• And explain why you found it useful

Band 6-7 Answer:
“I’d like to talk about a book I read recently called ‘The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People’ by Stephen Covey. I read it last summer during my vacation. The book is about personal development and provides strategies for becoming more productive and successful in both personal and professional life.

The author presents seven principles or habits that he believes are crucial for personal effectiveness. These include being proactive, beginning with the end in mind, and putting first things first. He also talks about thinking win-win, seeking to understand before being understood, synergizing, and continuous improvement.

I found this book incredibly useful because it gave me practical tools to improve my life. For example, the idea of ‘beginning with the end in mind’ has helped me set clearer goals and work towards them more effectively. The principle of ‘seeking to understand before being understood’ has improved my communication skills significantly.

Overall, this book has had a positive impact on how I approach challenges and interact with others. It’s definitely a book I’ll be referring back to often.”

Band 8-9 Answer:
“I’d be delighted to share my thoughts on a book that I found particularly enlightening – ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ by Daniel Kahneman. I immersed myself in this thought-provoking work about a year ago, and it’s left an indelible mark on my understanding of human decision-making.

Kahneman, a Nobel laureate in Economics, delves into the dual systems that drive the way we think – System 1, which is fast, intuitive, and emotional; and System 2, which is slower, more deliberative, and logical. The book meticulously explores various cognitive biases and heuristics that influence our judgment and decision-making processes.

What struck me as particularly insightful was Kahneman’s explanation of how these two systems can lead us to make errors in different scenarios. For instance, he elucidates how our tendency to rely on System 1 thinking can result in overconfidence in our own abilities or jumping to conclusions based on limited information.

I found this book tremendously useful on multiple levels. Firstly, it has heightened my awareness of my own thought processes, allowing me to critically examine my decision-making patterns. This newfound understanding has been invaluable in both my personal and professional life, helping me to make more balanced and rational choices.

Moreover, the book has enhanced my empathy towards others by providing insight into why people might make decisions that seem irrational at first glance. This has significantly improved my interpersonal relationships and communication skills.

Lastly, the book’s rigorous scientific approach, coupled with Kahneman’s engaging writing style, has rekindled my passion for continuous learning and critical thinking. It’s a book that I frequently revisit and one that continues to yield new insights with each reading.”

Follow-up questions:

1. How has this book changed your perspective on decision-making?
2. Would you recommend this book to others? Why or why not?

Band 6-7 Answer:
“This book has definitely made me more aware of how I make decisions. I try to slow down and think things through more carefully now. And yes, I would recommend it to others because it’s really helpful for understanding yourself better.”

Band 8-9 Answer:
“The book has fundamentally altered my approach to decision-making. I’m now much more cognizant of the potential pitfalls of quick, intuitive judgments and strive to engage my analytical faculties more frequently. It’s fostered a habit of questioning my initial reactions and seeking out additional information before reaching conclusions.

I would wholeheartedly recommend this book to others, particularly those in leadership positions or fields requiring complex decision-making. Its insights are universally applicable and can lead to more judicious choices in both personal and professional spheres. Moreover, the book serves as a catalyst for developing critical thinking skills, which I believe are invaluable in our increasingly complex world.”

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

In this section, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here’s an example:

Examiner: How do you think reading habits have changed with the advent of digital technology?

Band 6-7 Answer:
“I think digital technology has changed reading habits quite a lot. Many people now read e-books on tablets or smartphones instead of physical books. It’s more convenient because you can carry many books on one device. However, some people still prefer traditional books because they like the feel of paper and find it easier on their eyes.”

Band 8-9 Answer:
“The impact of digital technology on reading habits has been profound and multifaceted. On one hand, it has democratized access to literature and information, making a vast array of texts available at our fingertips. This has fostered a culture of instant gratification in reading, where people can satisfy their curiosity or need for information immediately.

However, this ease of access has also led to some concerning trends. The prevalence of short-form content and the constant bombardment of information have potentially diminished our capacity for deep, sustained reading. Many people now skim rather than thoroughly engage with texts, which could impact comprehension and critical thinking skills.

That said, digital technology has also opened up new avenues for interactive and multimedia reading experiences, which can enhance engagement and understanding for some learners. Audiobooks, for instance, have made literature more accessible to those with visual impairments or learning difficulties.

Ultimately, while digital technology has undoubtedly transformed our reading habits, I believe the key lies in striking a balance. Embracing the conveniences and opportunities offered by digital platforms while also cultivating the skills and patience required for deep, analytical reading is crucial for reaping the full benefits of literature in the digital age.”

Person reading an ebook on a tablet

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

1. Immerse oneself in /ɪˈmɜːrs/ (phrasal verb): To involve oneself deeply in a particular activity or interest.
   Example: “I immersed myself in the world of classic literature last summer.”

2. Thought-provoking /ˈθɔːt prəˈvoʊkɪŋ/ (adjective): Stimulating careful consideration or attention.
   Example: “The author’s thought-provoking arguments challenged my preconceptions.”

3. Elucidate /ɪˈluːsɪdeɪt/ (verb): To make something clear; to explain.
   Example: “The professor elucidated the complex theory in a way that made it easy to understand.”

4. Meticulously /məˈtɪkjələsli/ (adverb): In a way that shows great attention to detail; very thoroughly.
   Example: “The researcher meticulously analyzed every aspect of the data.”

5. Indelible mark /ɪnˈdelɪbl mɑːrk/ (idiom): A lasting impression or effect.
   Example: “That book left an indelible mark on my understanding of human psychology.”

Examiner’s Advice

To excel in the IELTS Speaking test when discussing books:

1. Prepare diverse examples: Have a range of books to discuss, covering different genres and themes.
2. Practice articulating your thoughts: Work on explaining complex ideas clearly and concisely.
3. Develop your vocabulary: Focus on using descriptive language and academic terms related to literature and reading.
4. Show critical thinking: Don’t just summarize the book; analyze its impact and relevance.
5. Be genuine: Speak about books you’ve actually read and enjoyed to ensure authenticity in your responses.

Remember, the key to a high score lies not just in what you say, but how you say it. Aim for fluency, coherence, and a rich vocabulary. With practice and preparation, you can confidently discuss any book that has influenced you, showcasing your language skills and critical thinking abilities.