The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about books and reading habits. One common topic is describing a book that has had a significant impact on your life or perspective. This article will guide you through answering such questions effectively, focusing on the prompt “describe a book you recently read that changed your perspective.”
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about your reading habits. Here are some common questions and sample answers:
Question: Do you enjoy reading books?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“Yes, I do enjoy reading books. I try to read at least one book a month, usually in the evening before bed. It helps me relax and learn new things.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“Absolutely, I’m an avid reader. Reading is not just a hobby for me; it’s a passion. I find myself immersed in various genres, from fiction to non-fiction, and I particularly relish books that challenge my existing perspectives or introduce me to new ideas.”
Part 2: Long Turn
Cue Card:
Describe a book you recently read that changed your perspective.
You should say:
- What the book was
- When and where you read it
- What it was about
- And explain how it changed your perspective
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to talk about a book I recently read that profoundly impacted my worldview. The book is ‘Factfulness‘ by Hans Rosling, which I read about two months ago during a weekend getaway to the countryside.
This eye-opening book challenges our preconceptions about the state of the world. Rosling, a renowned statistician, meticulously debunks common misconceptions about global trends in health, wealth, and education. He argues that, contrary to popular belief, the world is in a much better state than we think.
What struck me most about this book was its data-driven approach to understanding global progress. Rosling presents compelling evidence that shows how indicators like child mortality, extreme poverty, and education levels have dramatically improved over the past few decades, even in developing countries.
This book completely transformed my perspective on global development. Before reading it, I had a rather pessimistic view of the world, often influenced by sensationalized media coverage. However, Rosling’s factual presentation made me realize that while challenges remain, humanity has made tremendous strides in many areas.
Most importantly, the book taught me the value of critical thinking and questioning my assumptions. It emphasized the importance of looking at reliable data and trends rather than relying on anecdotes or outdated information. This new perspective has made me more optimistic about the future and more discerning in my consumption of news and information.
In conclusion, ‘Factfulness‘ didn’t just change my view of global development; it altered my entire approach to understanding the world around me. It’s a book that I believe everyone should read to gain a more accurate and hopeful perspective on our global situation.”
IELTS Speaking Test: Describing a Book That Changed Perspective
Follow-up Questions:
- How has this book influenced your daily life?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“This book has made me more aware of global issues. I now try to check facts more often before believing news stories, and I’m more interested in learning about different countries.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“The impact of this book on my daily life has been substantial. I’ve become far more critical in my consumption of news and information, always seeking to verify claims with reliable data. Additionally, I’ve developed a keen interest in global development issues and find myself engaging in more informed discussions about world affairs with colleagues and friends.”
- Do you think books can change society’s perspectives?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“Yes, I believe books can change how people think. When many people read an important book, it can spread new ideas and make people see things differently.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“Absolutely, books have the power to revolutionize societal perspectives. Throughout history, we’ve seen how seminal works have catalyzed social movements, challenged entrenched beliefs, and propelled societal progress. Books provide a platform for in-depth exploration of ideas that can permeate through society, gradually shifting collective consciousness and inspiring tangible change.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Question: How do you think digital media is changing the way we read and absorb information?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“Digital media has made information more accessible. We can now read books and articles on our phones or tablets anytime, anywhere. However, it might also be making our attention spans shorter, as we’re used to quick, bite-sized information.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“The advent of digital media has fundamentally altered our reading habits and information consumption patterns. On one hand, it has democratized access to knowledge, making a vast array of information available at our fingertips. This has facilitated rapid learning and cross-pollination of ideas across different fields and cultures.
However, the digital format has also introduced challenges. The constant barrage of information and the tendency towards shorter, more digestible content may be eroding our capacity for deep, sustained focus required for complex subjects. Moreover, the algorithms that curate our digital content can create echo chambers, potentially limiting exposure to diverse perspectives.
That said, I believe we’re in a transitional phase. As we become more aware of these challenges, we’re seeing the emergence of digital tools designed to promote focused reading and critical thinking. Ultimately, the key lies in harnessing the benefits of digital media while consciously cultivating the skills necessary for deep comprehension and analysis.”
Digital Reading vs Traditional Books: Changing Information Absorption
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
Profoundly impacted /prəˈfaʊndli ɪmˈpæktɪd/ (adv. + v.): Had a deep and significant effect.
Example: “The book profoundly impacted my understanding of global economics.”Eye-opening /aɪ ˈəʊpənɪŋ/ (adj.): Revealing new and surprising information.
Example: “It was an eye-opening experience to learn about different cultures through literature.”Meticulously debunks /məˈtɪkjələsli dɪˈbʌŋks/ (adv. + v.): Carefully and thoroughly disproves.
Example: “The author meticulously debunks common myths about climate change.”Data-driven approach /ˈdeɪtə ˈdrɪvən əˈprəʊtʃ/ (adj. + n.): A method based on analyzing data rather than intuition.
Example: “The research presents a data-driven approach to understanding social media trends.”Transformed my perspective /trænsˈfɔːmd maɪ pəˈspektɪv/ (v. + n.): Completely changed my point of view.
Example: “Traveling abroad transformed my perspective on global issues.”
Examiner’s Advice
To score high in the IELTS Speaking test when describing a book that changed your perspective:
- Structure your answer clearly, addressing all parts of the question.
- Use a range of sophisticated vocabulary and grammatical structures accurately.
- Provide specific examples and personal experiences to support your points.
- Show critical thinking by explaining how the book changed your perspective.
- Practice fluency by speaking at a natural pace without long pauses.
- Engage with the examiner during the discussion part, elaborating on your answers and providing thoughtful responses.
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 the ability to express complex ideas are crucial factors in achieving a high score.
For more tips on IELTS Speaking, you might find it helpful to read about how to describe a person who inspires you to be a better leader or how to describe a place in your city where you can relax. These topics can help you practice expressing personal experiences and opinions, which are valuable skills for the IELTS Speaking test.