Having meaningful conversations with people who hold different opinions is a common topic in IELTS Speaking tests. This subject frequently appears across all three parts of the speaking test, as it assesses candidates’ ability to express and defend viewpoints while maintaining respectful discourse.
Similar to describe a conversation that changed your view on something, this topic requires careful preparation and diplomatic language skills.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview Questions
Common questions include:
- Do you enjoy discussing different opinions with others?
- How do you handle disagreements with friends?
- Is it important to respect others’ viewpoints?
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I thoroughly enjoy engaging in discussions where different perspectives are shared. It’s fascinating to gain insights into how others think and their reasoning behind certain viewpoints. When disagreements arise, I make a conscious effort to listen actively and understand their position before expressing my own thoughts.”
Part 2: Cue Card
Describe a conversation you had with someone who had different opinions from yours
You should say:
- Who this person was
- What the topic of discussion was
- Why you had different opinions
- How the conversation ended
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to talk about a thought-provoking discussion I had with my colleague Sarah regarding remote work policies. While I strongly advocated for a fully remote setup, Sarah held firm beliefs about the irreplaceable value of in-person collaboration.
As someone who has described an introvert person you know, I appreciate the flexibility and focus that remote work offers. However, Sarah, having organized a group activity successfully in the past, emphasized the importance of spontaneous interactions and team bonding.
What made this conversation particularly memorable was how we both maintained professional composure while passionately defending our viewpoints. We concluded the discussion by acknowledging that a hybrid model might offer the best of both worlds.”
Part 3: Discussion Questions
- How have social media affected the way people discuss different opinions?
- What skills are important when handling disagreements?
- Why do some people find it difficult to accept different opinions?
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“Social media has fundamentally transformed how we engage in debates. While it has democratized discussion, it has also created echo chambers where people primarily encounter views similar to their own. This can inadvertently reinforce existing beliefs and make it harder to appreciate different perspectives.
Just as describe a public figure you admire for their work, effective communicators demonstrate key skills like active listening, empathy, and the ability to articulate thoughts clearly.”
Key Vocabulary and Expressions
- To see eye to eye (phrase) – /tuː siː aɪ tuː aɪ/ – to agree with someone
- To agree to disagree (phrase) – /tuː əˈɡriː tuː dɪsəˈɡriː/ – to accept different opinions
- To meet halfway (phrase) – /tuː miːt ˈhɑːfweɪ/ – to compromise
- Constructive criticism (n) – /kənˈstrʌktɪv krɪˈtɪsɪzəm/ – helpful feedback
- Common ground (n) – /ˈkɒmən ɡraʊnd/ – shared interests or opinions
Examiner’s Tips
- Focus on using diplomatic language
- Demonstrate critical thinking skills
- Provide specific examples to support your views
- Show respect for different perspectives
- Use appropriate body language and tone
Professional demonstrating diplomatic communication techniques
Remember, similar to describe a meal you enjoyed recently with friends, the key is to create a positive atmosphere while engaging in meaningful dialogue.
