The topic of describing a course you are currently taking is a common one in IELTS Speaking tests. It has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to continue being a popular topic in future tests. This subject allows examiners to assess your ability to discuss educational experiences, express opinions, and use relevant vocabulary. Let’s explore how to effectively answer questions related to this topic and maximize your score.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, the examiner may ask you some general questions about your current studies. Here are some possible questions and a sample answer:
Question: Are you studying at the moment?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“Yes, I am. I’m currently enrolled in a digital marketing course at a local community college. It’s a comprehensive program that covers various aspects of online marketing, including social media strategies, content creation, and search engine optimization. I find it incredibly fascinating and highly relevant to today’s business landscape.”
Describe a skill that took you a long time to learn can be a related topic that you might encounter in your IELTS Speaking test. Being prepared for such questions can help you perform better overall.
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 describing a course:
Cue Card:
Describe A Course You Are Currently Taking
You should say:
- What the course is about
- Where you are taking this course
- Why you decided to take this course
- And explain how you feel about this course
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to talk about the data science course I’m currently taking online through Coursera. This comprehensive program is a collaboration between IBM and one of the top universities in the United States.
The course covers a wide range of topics in data science, including programming in Python, data analysis, machine learning, and data visualization. What I find particularly appealing about this course is its practical approach. We’re not just learning theory; we’re working on real-world projects and using industry-standard tools.
I decided to enroll in this course because data science is an increasingly important field in today’s digital world. As someone working in marketing, I realized that having a solid understanding of data analysis could significantly enhance my career prospects and help me make more data-driven decisions in my current role.
I’m thoroughly enjoying the course so far. It’s challenging but incredibly rewarding. The instructors are experts in their field and present the material in an engaging and accessible manner. I particularly appreciate the flexibility of online learning, which allows me to balance my studies with my full-time job.
Overall, I feel this course is an invaluable investment in my professional development. It’s opening up new perspectives on how data can be used to solve complex problems and drive business decisions. I’m excited about the skills I’m acquiring and looking forward to applying them in my career.”
Data Science Course Online Learning
Follow-up questions:
- How do you manage your time between work and study?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“Balancing work and study can be challenging, but I’ve developed a strict schedule to manage my time effectively. I dedicate specific hours in the evenings and weekends to my coursework, ensuring I stay on track with the syllabus. Additionally, I use productivity apps to keep myself accountable and avoid procrastination.”
- Do you think online courses are as effective as traditional classroom learning?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“In my experience, online courses can be just as effective as traditional classroom learning, if not more so in certain aspects. They offer unparalleled flexibility and allow students to learn at their own pace. However, their effectiveness largely depends on the learner’s self-discipline and the quality of the course content. Online courses often provide interactive elements and real-time feedback that can enhance the learning experience. That said, traditional classroom settings offer immediate face-to-face interaction with instructors and peers, which can be beneficial for certain subjects or learning styles.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In this section, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:
Question: How do you think the education system in your country could be improved?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“I believe there’s room for improvement in our education system. One key area is the integration of more practical, skill-based learning into the curriculum. While theoretical knowledge is important, students would benefit from more hands-on experience and real-world application of what they learn. Additionally, I think there should be a greater emphasis on digital literacy and technology skills, as these are becoming increasingly important in the job market.”
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“The education system in my country could be enhanced in several ways. Firstly, I believe there’s a need for a more holistic approach to education that balances academic achievement with personal development and practical skills. This could involve incorporating more project-based learning and interdisciplinary studies to foster creativity and critical thinking.
Secondly, there’s scope for leveraging technology more effectively in the classroom. This doesn’t just mean using digital tools, but teaching students how to navigate the digital landscape responsibly and critically evaluate information.
Lastly, I think our education system could benefit from a greater focus on personalized learning. With advances in AI and data analytics, it’s becoming possible to tailor educational experiences to individual students’ needs, learning styles, and pace. This could help ensure that all students reach their full potential.”
Question: Do you think lifelong learning is important? Why or why not?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“Yes, I believe lifelong learning is extremely important in today’s rapidly changing world. Technology and industries are evolving at an unprecedented rate, making it crucial for individuals to continuously update their skills and knowledge. Lifelong learning helps people stay relevant in their careers and adapt to new challenges. Moreover, it promotes personal growth and can lead to increased job satisfaction and better quality of life.”
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I firmly believe that lifelong learning is not just important, but essential in our modern, fast-paced world. There are several compelling reasons for this.
Firstly, the rapid pace of technological advancement means that skills and knowledge can become outdated quickly. Lifelong learning allows individuals to stay abreast of these changes and remain competitive in the job market.
Secondly, continuous learning fosters adaptability and resilience. In a world where career changes are becoming more common, the ability to learn and apply new skills quickly is invaluable.
Furthermore, lifelong learning contributes to personal fulfillment and cognitive health. It keeps the mind active and engaged, potentially reducing the risk of cognitive decline as we age.
Lastly, from a societal perspective, a population committed to lifelong learning is better equipped to tackle complex global challenges and drive innovation. It creates a more informed citizenry capable of critical thinking and active participation in democracy.
In essence, lifelong learning is not just about professional development; it’s about embracing a mindset of curiosity and growth that enriches all aspects of life.”
Lifelong Learning: Diverse Group Studying
Describe a skill you are currently learning is another topic that aligns well with the theme of continuous education and personal development. Being able to discuss such topics can demonstrate your commitment to lifelong learning.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
To achieve a high score in your IELTS Speaking test, it’s crucial to use a range of advanced vocabulary and complex sentence structures. Here are some key terms and phrases that can help elevate your responses:
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Comprehensive program (adjective + noun): A course that covers all aspects of a subject thoroughly.
Example: “The data science course is a comprehensive program that covers everything from basic statistics to advanced machine learning techniques.” -
To enroll in (phrasal verb): To officially join a course or program.
Example: “I decided to enroll in this course to enhance my professional skills.” -
Cutting-edge (adjective): Very modern and advanced.
Example: “The course uses cutting-edge technology to simulate real-world data analysis scenarios.” -
To broaden one’s horizons (idiom): To expand one’s knowledge, experiences, or interests.
Example: “Taking this course has really helped me broaden my horizons in the field of digital marketing.” -
Invaluable (adjective): Extremely useful or indispensable.
Example: “The practical experience I’m gaining from this course is invaluable for my career.” -
To stay abreast of (phrasal verb): To keep informed about or up-to-date with.
Example: “This course helps me stay abreast of the latest developments in data science.”
Describe a time when you had to manage multiple tasks at once can be a great opportunity to showcase your ability to use these advanced phrases in context, especially when discussing how you balance your studies with other responsibilities.
Examiner’s Advice
As an IELTS examiner, I recommend the following strategies to improve your performance in the Speaking test:
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Practice regularly: Set aside time each day to speak English, even if it’s just talking to yourself about your daily activities.
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Expand your vocabulary: Learn new words and phrases related to education and personal development. Use them in context to ensure you understand their correct usage.
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Work on pronunciation: Pay attention to word stress and intonation. Clear pronunciation is crucial for effective communication.
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Develop your ideas: Don’t just give short answers. Expand on your points and provide examples to support your opinions.
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Use a variety of grammatical structures: Incorporate complex sentences and different tenses to demonstrate your language proficiency.
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Stay informed: Keep up with current affairs and global issues. This will help you discuss a wide range of topics confidently.
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Record yourself: Listen to your own speaking and identify areas for improvement.
Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is not just about knowing the language, but about using it effectively to communicate your thoughts and ideas.
Describe a time when you volunteered for a community project can be an excellent topic to practice these strategies, as it allows you to demonstrate your ability to discuss personal experiences while using a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures.
By following these tips and practicing regularly, you can significantly improve your performance in the IELTS Speaking test and increase your chances of achieving a high score. Remember, confidence comes with preparation, so invest time in honing your English speaking skills.
