The ability to describe a conversation that altered your perspective is a valuable skill in the IELTS Speaking test. This topic has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to remain relevant in future tests. Let’s explore how to tackle this subject effectively and maximize your score.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about conversations and opinions. Here’s an example question with a suggested answer:
Examiner: Do you often have conversations that change your opinion?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“I’d say it happens occasionally. I’m generally open-minded and willing to consider different perspectives. When I encounter a well-reasoned argument or compelling evidence, I’m not afraid to reassess my stance. However, I also believe in critically evaluating new information before fully changing my opinion.”
Describe a family you know that might have influenced your opinions through conversations. This could be a great way to practice discussing how interactions shape our views.
Part 2: Long Turn
Cue Card
Describe a conversation that made you change your opinion
You should say:
- Who you had the conversation with
- When and where the conversation took place
- What the conversation was about
- Why it changed your opinion
Sample Answer (Band 8-9)
“I’d like to share a pivotal conversation I had with my university professor, Dr. Johnson, about two years ago. It took place in her office after a lecture on environmental sustainability.
The conversation revolved around the impact of individual actions on climate change. Initially, I was quite skeptical about the significance of personal efforts in addressing such a global issue. I believed that only large-scale policy changes could make a real difference.
Dr. Johnson, however, presented a compelling case for the cumulative effect of individual choices. She cited research showing how small changes in consumer behavior can ripple through supply chains, influencing corporate decisions and ultimately impacting policy-making.
What really struck a chord with me was her analogy of a coral reef. She explained how each polyp, though tiny, contributes to building a massive, complex ecosystem. Similarly, our individual actions, when combined, can create significant change.
This conversation fundamentally altered my perspective. I realized that I had been underestimating the power of personal responsibility and collective action. It made me reevaluate my daily habits and inspired me to become more environmentally conscious in my choices.
The professor’s passionate yet logical approach to the topic was truly eye-opening. Her ability to contextualize global issues in relatable terms resonated deeply with me. This conversation not only changed my opinion but also sparked a lasting interest in sustainability that has influenced my academic and personal pursuits ever since.”
Follow-up Questions
Examiner: How did this conversation affect your subsequent actions?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“This conversation profoundly impacted my daily habits. I became much more mindful of my carbon footprint, actively seeking ways to reduce waste and energy consumption. I started using public transportation more frequently, adopted a more plant-based diet, and even initiated a recycling program in my neighborhood. Moreover, it ignited a passion for environmental advocacy, leading me to join local sustainability groups and participate in awareness campaigns.”
Examiner: Do you think it’s important to be open to changing your opinions?
Sample answer (Band 6-7):
“Yes, I believe it’s quite important to be open to changing our opinions. The world is always changing, and new information is constantly becoming available. If we’re not willing to reconsider our views, we might miss out on important insights or opportunities to grow. Being open-minded can help us make better decisions and understand others better.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Examiner: How do you think social media affects people’s opinions?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“Social media undeniably wields significant influence over public opinion. It serves as a double-edged sword in shaping perspectives. On one hand, it facilitates the rapid dissemination of information and exposes users to diverse viewpoints, potentially broadening horizons. However, it also creates echo chambers through algorithms that prioritize content aligning with users’ existing beliefs, potentially reinforcing biases.
Moreover, the brevity and sensationalism often favored on these platforms can lead to oversimplification of complex issues. This may result in polarized opinions rather than nuanced understanding. The viral nature of content on social media can also amplify misinformation, making it crucial for users to critically evaluate the information they encounter.
That being said, social media has also empowered marginalized voices and grassroots movements, bringing important issues to the forefront of public consciousness. It has the potential to catalyze social change by facilitating conversations that might not occur in traditional media.
Ultimately, while social media can be a powerful tool for shaping opinions, its impact largely depends on how individuals engage with it. Cultivating media literacy and maintaining a healthy skepticism are essential in navigating this digital landscape.”
Examiner: Do you think it’s easier or harder for people to change their opinions now compared to in the past?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“I believe it’s a complex issue with arguments on both sides. On one hand, we now have unprecedented access to information and diverse perspectives through the internet and global communication. This exposure could potentially make it easier for people to encounter new ideas and reassess their views.
However, paradoxically, this abundance of information might also make it harder to change opinions. The information overload can be overwhelming, leading people to retreat into familiar viewpoints. Additionally, social media algorithms often create echo chambers, reinforcing existing beliefs rather than challenging them.
Another factor is the rapid pace of modern life, which might leave less time for deep reflection and genuine engagement with opposing viewpoints. In contrast, people in the past might have had more time for in-depth discussions and gradual shifts in perspective.
That said, I think the ease of changing opinions ultimately depends on the individual’s mindset. Those who cultivate critical thinking and remain open to new ideas can benefit greatly from today’s information-rich environment. It’s not necessarily easier or harder to change opinions now, but the process and influences are certainly different from the past.”
Describe a local business you often visit and how your conversations there might have influenced your opinions over time. This could provide an interesting perspective on how everyday interactions can shape our views.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
-
Pivotal conversation /ˈpɪvətl ˌkɒnvəˈseɪʃn/ (adj. + n.): A crucial discussion that leads to important changes.
Example: “Our pivotal conversation about career goals led me to change my major.” -
To revolve around /rɪˈvɒlv əˈraʊnd/ (phrasal verb): To be centered on or focused on a particular subject.
Example: “The debate revolved around the ethical implications of artificial intelligence.” -
Compelling case /kəmˈpelɪŋ keɪs/ (adj. + n.): A very convincing argument or set of reasons.
Example: “The lawyer presented a compelling case for her client’s innocence.” -
To strike a chord /straɪk ə kɔːd/ (idiom): To elicit a strong emotional response or resonate with someone.
Example: “His speech about equality struck a chord with the audience.” -
To reevaluate /riːɪˈvæljueɪt/ (verb): To consider or examine again, especially with the possibility of change.
Example: “After the discussion, I had to reevaluate my stance on the issue.” -
To cultivate critical thinking /ˈkʌltɪveɪt ˈkrɪtɪkl ˈθɪŋkɪŋ/ (verb phrase): To develop and nurture the ability to analyze and evaluate information objectively.
Example: “Universities aim to cultivate critical thinking skills in their students.”
Describe a childhood friend you are still in touch with and how your conversations over the years have influenced each other’s opinions. This could provide a rich example of how long-term relationships can shape our perspectives.
Examiner’s Advice
To excel in describing a conversation that changed your opinion:
- Structure your answer clearly, following the cue card prompts.
- Use a variety of descriptive language to make your account vivid and engaging.
- Explain the reasoning behind your change of opinion to demonstrate critical thinking.
- Use appropriate tenses to narrate the conversation and its effects accurately.
- Practice incorporating advanced vocabulary and idiomatic expressions naturally.
- Reflect on the broader implications of the conversation to show depth of thought.
- Maintain fluency by preparing common phrases for describing conversations and opinions.
Remember, the key to a high score is not just in what you say, but how you say it. Strive for clarity, coherence, and depth in your responses.
Describe an interesting neighbor you have and how conversations with them might have changed your opinions about certain topics. This could provide a unique angle on how everyday interactions can broaden our perspectives.