Describing a competition you would like to take part in is a common topic in IELTS Speaking tests. This theme allows examiners to assess your ability to express personal interests, future aspirations, and reasons for participating in competitive events. Let’s explore how to effectively tackle this topic and achieve a high band score.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about competitions. Here’s a sample question with a suggested answer:
Q: Do you enjoy watching competitions on TV?
A (Band 7-8): Absolutely! I find televised competitions quite captivating, especially sports tournaments and talent shows. They often showcase human potential and the thrill of competition, which I find both entertaining and inspiring. For instance, I never miss the Olympics or singing contests like “The Voice” – they’re a great way to unwind after a long day.
Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)
Here’s a potential cue card related to the topic:
Describe A Competition You Would Like To Take Part In.
You should say:
- What the competition is
- Why you want to participate in it
- What preparation you would need to do
- And explain how you think you would feel during the competition
Sample Answer (Band 6-7):
I’d really like to participate in a local photography competition that’s held annually in my city. The reason I want to join is that photography has been my hobby for a few years now, and I think this competition would be a great opportunity to showcase my skills and get feedback from professionals in the field.
To prepare, I’d need to practice my techniques, especially in terms of composition and lighting. I’d also need to research the theme of the competition, which changes every year, and brainstorm creative ideas that fit the theme while standing out from other entries.
During the competition, I imagine I’d feel a mix of excitement and nervousness. It would be thrilling to see my work displayed alongside other talented photographers, but I’d also be anxious about how the judges and public would receive my photos. Overall, though, I think it would be a rewarding experience, regardless of the outcome.
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
I’m absolutely enthralled by the prospect of participating in the National Geographic Photo Contest. This prestigious competition has long been a pinnacle of achievement for photographers worldwide, and I’ve been an ardent admirer of their stunning imagery for years.
My desire to partake stems from a deep-seated passion for visual storytelling and a burning ambition to push the boundaries of my photographic skills. The competition’s global platform would provide an unparalleled opportunity to have my work scrutinized by industry luminaries and potentially reach a vast, diverse audience.
Preparation would be an intensive process, requiring me to hone my technical proficiency in various photographic styles and delve into the art of crafting compelling narratives through images. I’d need to conduct extensive research on potential subjects and locations, possibly even embarking on expeditions to capture truly extraordinary moments.
During the competition, I anticipate experiencing a whirlwind of emotions. The adrenaline rush of submitting my work would likely be accompanied by a sense of vulnerability, knowing that my artistic vision would be laid bare for critique. However, I’m certain that the overarching feeling would be one of immense pride and fulfillment, having taken a significant step towards realizing my photographic aspirations.
Follow-up Questions
Q: How do you think participating in competitions affects people’s personal growth?
A (Band 6-7): I believe competitions can really help people grow. They push you to do your best and learn new skills. When you compete, you also learn how to handle pressure and deal with winning or losing. These are all important life lessons.
A (Band 8-9): Participating in competitions can be a catalyst for personal development in numerous ways. Firstly, it fosters a growth mindset by encouraging individuals to push beyond their perceived limitations. The process of preparation often leads to the acquisition of new skills and the refinement of existing ones. Moreover, competitions provide a platform for constructive feedback, allowing participants to gain valuable insights into their strengths and areas for improvement. The experience of competing also cultivates resilience and emotional intelligence, as individuals learn to navigate the pressures of performance and the outcomes of success or failure. Ultimately, these experiences can translate into enhanced self-confidence and a more robust approach to challenges in various aspects of life.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Q: In your opinion, what are the benefits and drawbacks of competitive sports for children?
A (Band 6-7): I think competitive sports can be good for kids because they learn teamwork and how to stay healthy. They also learn about winning and losing gracefully. However, there can be too much pressure on children to win, which might stress them out. Some kids might also feel bad if they’re not as good as others, which could hurt their self-esteem.
A (Band 8-9): Competitive sports for children offer a myriad of benefits, but they also come with potential drawbacks that warrant consideration. On the positive side, such activities foster physical fitness and help children develop crucial life skills such as teamwork, discipline, and goal-setting. The competitive environment can also bolster resilience and teach young individuals how to cope with both success and failure, which are invaluable lessons for their future personal and professional lives.
However, we must also acknowledge the potential downsides. The intense pressure to perform can sometimes lead to undue stress and anxiety, particularly in children who may not have fully developed coping mechanisms. There’s also a risk of overemphasis on winning at the expense of enjoyment and personal growth, which could potentially dampen a child’s enthusiasm for physical activities in the long run. Additionally, for some children, constant comparison with peers might negatively impact their self-esteem, especially if they struggle to excel in these competitive environments.
Ultimately, the key lies in striking a balance – harnessing the positive aspects of competitive sports while mitigating the potential negative impacts through proper guidance and a focus on personal development rather than just winning.
Describe an outdoor sport you want to try in the future is another interesting topic that could come up in your IELTS Speaking test. It’s always good to be prepared for a variety of subjects.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
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Enthralled /ɪnˈθrɔːld/ (adjective): Captivated or spellbound.
Example: I was enthralled by the intense competition during the final match. -
Prestigious /preˈstɪdʒəs/ (adjective): Inspiring respect and admiration.
Example: Winning such a prestigious competition would be a significant achievement for any participant. -
Deep-seated /ˌdiːpˈsiːtɪd/ (adjective): Firmly established.
Example: My deep-seated passion for music drove me to enter the singing contest. -
To push the boundaries (phrase): To extend the limits of what is possible.
Example: This competition encourages contestants to push the boundaries of their creativity. -
Scrutinized /ˈskruːtənaɪzd/ (verb): Examined or inspected closely and thoroughly.
Example: Each entry will be carefully scrutinized by a panel of expert judges. -
Whirlwind of emotions (phrase): A tumultuous mix of feelings.
Example: Participating in the debate competition was a whirlwind of emotions, from anxiety to exhilaration. -
Catalyst /ˈkætəlɪst/ (noun): Something that precipitates a process or event.
Example: The competition served as a catalyst for my personal growth and skill development. -
To foster /ˈfɒstə(r)/ (verb): To encourage or promote the development of something.
Example: Such events foster a spirit of healthy competition among students.
Using these words and phrases appropriately in your responses can significantly enhance the sophistication of your language use, potentially leading to higher band scores.
Examiner’s Advice
To excel in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when describing a competition you’d like to enter, consider the following tips:
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Practice extensively: Regularly describe various competitions to friends or record yourself speaking. This will help you become more fluent and confident.
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Develop your vocabulary: Learn and use topic-specific vocabulary related to competitions, as well as more advanced words and phrases to elevate your language use.
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Structure your answers: Organize your thoughts logically, especially in Part 2. Use linking words to connect your ideas smoothly.
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Provide specific examples: Don’t just give general statements. Support your points with concrete examples or personal experiences to make your answer more engaging and authentic.
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Show enthusiasm: When talking about a competition you’d like to enter, let your interest shine through in your tone and choice of words. This can make your answer more compelling.
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Be prepared for follow-up questions: In Part 3, be ready to discuss broader issues related to competitions, such as their impact on society or their educational value.
Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is not just about what you say, but how you say it. Aim for fluency, accuracy, and a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures.
Describe a place or country where you would like to live or work for a short period is another topic that could help you practice your speaking skills in a similar context.
By following these guidelines and practicing regularly, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle any question about competitions in your IELTS Speaking test. Good luck!