Mastering IELTS Speaking: How to Describe a Future Course with Confidence

The topic “describe a course you want to take in the future” is a common theme in IELTS Speaking tests. It allows examiners to assess your ability to discuss future plans, express aspirations, and articulate reasons for your choices. This topic has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to continue being a popular choice for future tests. Let’s explore how to approach this topic effectively to achieve a high band score.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about education and learning. Here are some possible questions and sample answers:

1. Do you enjoy learning new things?
2. What kind of courses have you taken in the past?
3. How do you prefer to learn: in a classroom or online?

Let’s focus on the third question:

Examiner: How do you prefer to learn: in a classroom or online?

Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“I find that both classroom and online learning have their merits. Personally, I lean towards a blend of both. Classroom settings offer invaluable face-to-face interactions and immediate feedback, which I find particularly beneficial for subjects requiring hands-on practice. On the other hand, online courses provide flexibility and allow me to learn at my own pace, which is ideal for theoretical subjects or when I need to balance studies with other commitments. Ultimately, my preference depends on the nature of the course and my current circumstances.”

Describe a time when someone gave you something that was particularly meaningful can be another interesting topic to explore in your IELTS Speaking preparation.

Part 2: Long Turn

Here’s a sample cue card for this topic:

Describe a course you want to take in the future

You should say:
- What the course is about
- Where you would take this course
- Why you want to take this course
- And explain how this course might be useful for your future

Sample answer (Band 6-7):

“I’ve been thinking about taking a digital marketing course in the near future. This course would cover various aspects of online marketing, including social media management, search engine optimization, and content creation.

I’m planning to take this course at a well-known online learning platform that offers certificates recognized by industry professionals. The main reason I want to take this course is to enhance my professional skills and stay updated with the latest trends in the digital world.

I believe this course will be incredibly useful for my future career. In today’s digital age, marketing strategies are constantly evolving, and having a solid understanding of digital marketing techniques could open up new job opportunities for me. It might also help me if I decide to start my own business someday.”

Sample answer (Band 8-9):

“I’m eagerly anticipating enrolling in an advanced data science course in the near future. This comprehensive program would delve into cutting-edge topics such as machine learning algorithms, predictive modeling, and big data analytics.

I’m contemplating taking this course at a prestigious tech institute in Silicon Valley, known for its state-of-the-art facilities and industry connections. The primary motivation behind my choice is to elevate my expertise in this rapidly evolving field and stay at the forefront of technological advancements.

I’m convinced that this course will be instrumental in shaping my future career trajectory. In our increasingly data-driven world, the ability to extract meaningful insights from complex datasets is becoming indispensable across various industries. This course would not only enhance my analytical skills but also equip me with the tools to tackle real-world problems, potentially leading to groundbreaking innovations in fields like healthcare, finance, or environmental science.”

IELTS Speaking: Describing a Future Course

Follow-up questions:

1. How long do you think this course would take to complete?
2. Are there any challenges you might face while taking this course?

Sample answer for question 1 (Band 8-9):

“I anticipate that this intensive data science course would take approximately six to eight months to complete if pursued full-time. However, considering my current work commitments, I’m leaning towards a part-time option, which might extend the duration to about a year. This timeframe would allow for a thorough exploration of complex topics and provide ample opportunity for hands-on projects and real-world applications. I believe this extended period is crucial for fully absorbing and internalizing the advanced concepts covered in the course.”

Sample answer for question 2 (Band 8-9):

“While I’m excited about the prospect of taking this course, I’m also mindful of potential challenges. The primary hurdle I foresee is balancing the rigorous course requirements with my professional obligations. Additionally, the technical nature of data science might present a steep learning curve, especially when it comes to advanced statistical concepts and programming languages. However, I view these challenges as opportunities for growth and am prepared to dedicate extra time and effort to overcome them. I also plan to leverage online resources and engage with peer groups to enhance my understanding and tackle any difficulties that may arise during the course.”

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

In this section, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some possible questions and sample answers:

Examiner: 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 area that could be enhanced is the integration of practical skills into the curriculum. While theoretical knowledge is important, students often graduate without the necessary skills for the job market. Introducing more internship programs and project-based learning could help bridge this gap.

Another aspect that needs attention is the use of technology in classrooms. With the rapid advancement of digital tools, our education system should adapt to incorporate these technologies effectively. This could include online learning platforms, virtual reality experiences, and coding classes even for non-IT students.

Lastly, I think there’s a need for more emphasis on critical thinking and creativity. Our current system often focuses heavily on memorization and standardized testing. Shifting towards a more holistic approach that encourages students to think independently and creatively could better prepare them for the challenges of the future job market.”

Examiner: Do you think online courses will replace traditional classroom learning in the future?

Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“The future of education is undoubtedly moving towards a more digital landscape, but I don’t believe online courses will completely supplant traditional classroom learning. Instead, I envision a hybrid model becoming increasingly prevalent.

Online courses offer unparalleled flexibility and accessibility, allowing students to learn at their own pace and from virtually anywhere in the world. They’re particularly advantageous for working professionals seeking to upskill or those in remote areas with limited access to educational institutions. The COVID-19 pandemic has certainly accelerated the adoption of online learning platforms and demonstrated their viability on a large scale.

However, traditional classroom learning still holds significant value. The face-to-face interaction between teachers and students, as well as among peers, fosters a unique learning environment that’s difficult to replicate entirely online. Classroom settings are also crucial for developing social skills, collaborative abilities, and hands-on experience in certain fields like sciences or arts.

Moreover, the effectiveness of online learning can vary greatly depending on the subject matter and the individual learning style of students. Some disciplines require physical presence and immediate feedback, which are more readily available in traditional settings.

In light of these factors, I believe the future of education lies in blending the best aspects of both online and traditional learning. This could involve flipped classroom models, where students engage with course material online and use classroom time for discussions and practical applications. Such a hybrid approach would leverage the strengths of both methods, providing students with a more comprehensive and flexible educational experience.”

Online vs Traditional Classroom Learning

Describe a challenging thing you have done could be an excellent topic to practice your speaking skills, especially when discussing personal growth and overcoming obstacles.

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

1. Anticipate /ænˈtɪsɪpeɪt/ (verb): to expect or predict
   Example: “I anticipate that this course will significantly enhance my career prospects.”

2. Cutting-edge /ˈkʌtɪŋ edʒ/ (adjective): very modern and advanced
   Example: “The program covers cutting-edge technologies in artificial intelligence.”

3. Indispensable /ˌɪndɪˈspensəbl/ (adjective): absolutely necessary
   Example: “In today’s job market, digital skills are becoming indispensable.”

4. Leverage /ˈlevərɪdʒ/ (verb): use (something) to maximum advantage
   Example: “I plan to leverage the knowledge gained from this course in my current job.”

5. Rigorous /ˈrɪɡərəs/ (adjective): extremely thorough and careful
   Example: “The course involves a rigorous examination of advanced statistical methods.”

6. Holistic /həʊˈlɪstɪk/ (adjective): characterized by the belief that the parts of something are interconnected and can be explained only by reference to the whole
   Example: “The program takes a holistic approach to business management, covering all aspects from finance to human resources.”

Examiner’s Advice

To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when describing a course you want to take in the future:

1. Use a range of vocabulary: Incorporate advanced and topic-specific words naturally in your responses.
2. Demonstrate critical thinking: Don’t just describe the course, but explain your reasoning and how it fits into your larger goals.
3. Provide detailed responses: Elaborate on your answers with examples and personal experiences.
4. Maintain fluency: Practice speaking on this topic to improve your ability to discuss it smoothly and confidently.
5. Show awareness of broader implications: Connect your course choice to wider trends in education or the job market.

Remember, the key to success in IELTS Speaking is not just about what you say, but how you say it. Practice regularly, record yourself, and seek feedback to continually improve your performance.

Describe a sport you enjoy watching on television can be another interesting topic to practice, helping you develop your descriptive language skills.