The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about competitions, as they are a common aspect of many people’s lives. One frequently asked topic is describing a competition you would like to participate in. This article will guide you through answering such questions effectively, helping you achieve a high band score in your IELTS Speaking exam.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about competitions. Here are some common questions and sample answers:
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Do you enjoy watching competitions on TV?
Band 6-7 answer: “Yes, I do. I find it exciting to watch skilled competitors, especially in sports like football or tennis. It’s entertaining and sometimes inspiring.”
Band 8-9 answer: “Absolutely. I’m particularly drawn to high-stakes competitions like the Olympics or World Cup. The intensity and drama of these events are captivating, and I often find myself emotionally invested in the outcomes.”
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Have you ever participated in a competition?
Band 6-7 answer: “Yes, I have. I once took part in a school debate competition. It was challenging but also quite fun.”
Band 8-9 answer: “Indeed, I have. In fact, I’ve participated in several competitions throughout my academic career, ranging from science fairs to public speaking contests. Each experience has been incredibly enriching, helping me develop critical thinking skills and boost my confidence.”
Describe an outdoor sport you want to try can be another interesting topic that may come up in the IELTS Speaking test, as it allows candidates to showcase their vocabulary and express their interests.
Part 2: Long Turn
In this section, 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 competitions:
Describe a competition you would like to participate in.
You should say:
- What the competition is
- Where it would take place
- Who would take part in it
- And explain why you would like to participate in this competitionBand 6-7 Sample Answer:
“I’d like to participate in a cooking competition that takes place in my city. It’s an annual event where amateur chefs from all over the country come to showcase their culinary skills. The competition is usually held in a large convention center downtown.
Participants are mostly food enthusiasts and aspiring chefs who love to cook. They come from different backgrounds and age groups, which makes the competition quite diverse and interesting.
I would love to take part in this competition because cooking is my passion. It would be a great opportunity to test my skills against other talented cooks and learn new techniques. Also, the excitement of competing and the chance to win prizes are quite appealing to me.”
Band 8-9 Sample Answer:
“I’m particularly eager to participate in the prestigious MasterChef competition, which is renowned worldwide for its rigorous culinary challenges. This high-profile event typically takes place in state-of-the-art kitchen studios, equipped with cutting-edge culinary technology.
The competition attracts a diverse array of participants, from passionate home cooks to aspiring professional chefs, all united by their unwavering love for gastronomy. What makes this competition truly captivating is the wide spectrum of culinary backgrounds represented, ranging from traditional home-style cooking to avant-garde molecular gastronomy.
My fervent desire to partake in this competition stems from my profound passion for the culinary arts. I view it as an unparalleled opportunity to push my creative boundaries and refine my techniques under the scrutiny of world-renowned chefs. The prospect of immersing myself in such an intense, high-pressure environment is both exhilarating and daunting. Moreover, I’m enticed by the potential to network with like-minded individuals and possibly catapult my culinary career to new heights.”
Follow-up questions:
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How do you plan to prepare for this competition?
Band 6-7 answer: “I would practice cooking different dishes and try to improve my speed and presentation skills. I’d also read cookbooks and watch cooking shows to learn new techniques.”
Band 8-9 answer: “To prepare for this culinary challenge, I’d devise a comprehensive strategy. This would involve honing my technical skills through intensive practice sessions, expanding my repertoire of dishes, and refining my plating techniques. Additionally, I’d immerse myself in culinary literature and attend workshops to broaden my gastronomic knowledge.”
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What qualities do you think are important for success in competitions?
Band 6-7 answer: “I think determination, skill, and the ability to work under pressure are crucial for success in competitions. Having a positive attitude is also important.”
Band 8-9 answer: “Success in competitions hinges on a multifaceted set of qualities. Paramount among these are unwavering determination, exceptional skill mastery, and the ability to thrive under intense pressure. Equally important are adaptability to unforeseen challenges, mental resilience in the face of setbacks, and the capacity for creative problem-solving. A positive mindset and sportsmanship are also invaluable, as they foster a healthy competitive environment and personal growth.”
Discuss a person who has had a significant impact on your life is another topic that might be explored in the IELTS Speaking test, allowing candidates to demonstrate their ability to describe personal experiences and relationships.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In this section, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some sample questions and answers:
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Do you think competitions are beneficial for society? Why or why not?
Band 6-7 answer: “Yes, I believe competitions can be beneficial for society. They encourage people to improve their skills and can be a source of entertainment. However, too much focus on winning can sometimes be negative.”
Band 8-9 answer: “Competitions, in my view, play a pivotal role in societal progress. They serve as catalysts for innovation and personal growth, pushing individuals to surpass their perceived limitations. Moreover, they foster a spirit of excellence that can permeate various aspects of society, from education to industry. However, it’s crucial to strike a balance, as an overzealous focus on competition can lead to undue stress and potentially undermine collaboration and empathy, which are equally vital for societal well-being.”
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How have competitions changed with the advent of technology?
Band 6-7 answer: “Technology has made competitions more accessible and global. Now people can participate in online competitions from anywhere in the world. It has also made judging more accurate in some sports.”
Band 8-9 answer: “The integration of technology into competitions has been transformative. It has democratized participation, allowing competitors from diverse geographical locations to engage on a global platform. Furthermore, technology has enhanced the precision of judging in many fields, from sports to academic contests, minimizing human error and increasing fairness. The advent of e-sports and virtual competitions has also expanded the very definition of what constitutes a competition. However, this technological shift also presents new challenges, such as ensuring equitable access to technology and maintaining the human element that often makes competitions compelling.”
Describe a project you worked on with friends is another topic that could be relevant in discussions about competitions, as it allows candidates to talk about teamwork and collaboration, which are often important aspects of competitive environments.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
To achieve a high band score, incorporate sophisticated vocabulary and complex sentence structures. Here are some examples:
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Rigorous /ˈrɪɡərəs/ (adjective): Extremely thorough and careful
Example: “The competition involves a rigorous selection process.” -
Prestigious /preˈstɪdʒəs/ (adjective): Inspiring respect and admiration
Example: “Winning this prestigious award would be a significant achievement.” -
To thrive /θraɪv/ (verb): To prosper or flourish
Example: “Some people thrive in competitive environments.” -
Catalyst /ˈkætəlɪst/ (noun): Something that causes an important event to happen
Example: “Competitions can be a catalyst for innovation.” -
To push one’s boundaries (phrase): To extend the limits of one’s abilities
Example: “Participating in competitions allows you to push your boundaries.”
Examiner’s Advice
To excel in the IELTS Speaking test when discussing competitions:
- Use a variety of sentence structures to demonstrate your language proficiency.
- Incorporate relevant personal experiences to make your answers more engaging and authentic.
- Practice speaking about different types of competitions to broaden your vocabulary and ideas.
- Focus on fluency and coherence, ensuring your ideas flow logically.
- Don’t be afraid to express opinions, but remember to support them with reasons and examples.
By following these guidelines and practicing regularly, you can significantly improve your performance in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when discussing competitions and related topics.