When preparing for the IELTS Speaking test, it’s crucial to be ready for a wide range of topics. One topic that has gained increasing relevance in recent years is environmental advocacy. In this article, we’ll explore how to effectively respond to the topic “Describe a famous environmental advocate in your country” in the IELTS Speaking test, with a focus on the Vietnamese context.
Understanding the IELTS Speaking Test Structure
Before we dive into the specific topic, let’s review the structure of the IELTS Speaking test:
- Part 1: Introduction and Interview (4-5 minutes)
- Part 2: Long Turn (3-4 minutes)
- Part 3: Two-way Discussion (4-5 minutes)
Now, let’s explore how to tackle each part when discussing a famous environmental advocate in Vietnam.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this part, the examiner may ask general questions about environmental issues and activism. Here are some possible questions and sample answers:
Question: Are you interested in environmental issues?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I am quite interested in environmental issues. I try to stay informed about climate change and pollution problems in my country.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely. I’m deeply passionate about environmental issues, particularly those affecting Vietnam. I make a concerted effort to stay abreast of the latest developments in climate change mitigation and pollution control strategies, both locally and globally.
Question: Do you think young people in your country are concerned about the environment?
Band 6-7 Answer:
I believe many young people in Vietnam care about the environment. They often participate in clean-up activities and try to reduce plastic use.
Band 8-9 Answer:
I’d say there’s a growing awareness among Vietnamese youth regarding environmental issues. Many are actively engaged in initiatives such as beach clean-ups, tree-planting campaigns, and advocating for sustainable practices. This shift in mindset is encouraging and suggests a promising future for environmental conservation in Vietnam.
Part 2: Long Turn
Here’s a sample cue card for this topic:
Describe a famous environmental advocate in your country
You should say:
- Who this person is
- What they have done for the environment
- How they became famous
- And explain why you think their work is important
Band 6-7 Sample Answer:
I’d like to talk about Nguyen Quang Thach, a famous environmental advocate in Vietnam. He’s known for his work in promoting education and environmental awareness in rural areas.
Thach started a project called “Books for Rural Vietnam” in 2007. He believed that by improving education, people would become more aware of environmental issues. He traveled around the country on his bicycle, distributing books and setting up small libraries in villages.
He became famous when his project gained attention on social media and in the news. Many people were inspired by his dedication and started to support his cause.
I think his work is important because it connects education with environmental awareness. By giving people access to knowledge, he’s helping them understand why protecting the environment is crucial for their future.
Band 8-9 Sample Answer:
I’d like to discuss Nguyen Quang Thach, a prominent environmental advocate in Vietnam who has made significant contributions to both education and environmental awareness in rural areas.
Thach initiated a groundbreaking project called “Books for Rural Vietnam” in 2007. His innovative approach was based on the belief that enhancing education would naturally lead to greater environmental consciousness. He embarked on an extraordinary journey, traversing the country on his bicycle to distribute books and establish small libraries in remote villages.
Thach’s fame burgeoned when his project gained traction on social media platforms and garnered attention from mainstream media outlets. His unwavering dedication and unique approach to combining literacy with environmental awareness struck a chord with many Vietnamese citizens, inspiring a wave of support and emulation.
I believe Thach’s work is profoundly important for several reasons. Firstly, it bridges the critical gap between education and environmental stewardship. By empowering rural communities with knowledge, he’s fostering a deeper understanding of environmental issues and their long-term implications. Secondly, his grassroots approach demonstrates that individual action can catalyze significant change. Lastly, by focusing on youth education, Thach is nurturing a generation of environmentally conscious citizens who will be better equipped to address future ecological challenges.
Follow-up questions:
- How has Thach’s work influenced environmental policies in Vietnam?
- What challenges do you think environmental advocates face in Vietnam?
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In this part, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to environmental advocacy. Here are some possible questions and sample answers:
Question: What role do you think celebrities should play in environmental advocacy?
Band 6-7 Answer:
I think celebrities can be helpful in raising awareness about environmental issues. They have many followers on social media, so they can spread important messages quickly.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Celebrities can play a pivotal role in environmental advocacy due to their extensive reach and influence. Their platform allows them to amplify crucial messages and mobilize public opinion on a scale that few others can match. However, it’s imperative that their involvement is genuine and well-informed. When celebrities champion environmental causes, they should collaborate with experts to ensure their advocacy is grounded in scientific fact and promotes effective solutions. Moreover, they should lead by example, adopting sustainable practices in their own lives to reinforce their message and inspire tangible change among their followers.
Question: How can governments encourage more people to become environmental advocates?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Governments can encourage people by providing education about environmental issues in schools. They can also create campaigns to raise awareness and offer incentives for eco-friendly behaviors.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Governments can play a multifaceted role in fostering environmental advocacy. Firstly, they should prioritize environmental education at all levels, integrating it into curricula from primary school through university. This would help cultivate a generation of environmentally conscious citizens. Secondly, governments can implement robust awareness campaigns leveraging various media channels to disseminate information about pressing environmental issues and potential solutions. Additionally, they could introduce incentive programs that reward environmentally responsible behavior, such as tax breaks for businesses adopting green technologies or individuals reducing their carbon footprint. Lastly, governments should create platforms for public engagement in environmental decision-making processes, thereby empowering citizens to actively participate in shaping environmental policies and initiatives.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test, it’s essential to use a range of sophisticated vocabulary and phrases. Here are some examples related to environmental advocacy:
-
Environmental stewardship /ɪnˌvaɪrənˈmentl ˈstjuːərdʃɪp/ (noun): The responsible use and protection of the natural environment.
Example: “Environmental stewardship is crucial for preserving our planet for future generations.” -
Sustainable practices /səˈsteɪnəbl ˈpræktɪsɪz/ (noun phrase): Methods of using resources that do not deplete or damage natural ecosystems.
Example: “Many companies are now adopting sustainable practices to reduce their environmental impact.” -
Biodiversity conservation /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti ˌkɒnsəˈveɪʃn/ (noun phrase): The protection and management of varied species, habitats, and ecosystems.
Example: “Biodiversity conservation is essential for maintaining the health of our planet’s ecosystems.” -
Carbon footprint /ˈkɑːbən ˈfʊtprɪnt/ (noun): The amount of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere as a result of human activities.
Example: “Reducing our carbon footprint is a key step in combating climate change.” -
Eco-conscious /ˈiːkəʊ ˈkɒnʃəs/ (adjective): Aware of and concerned about environmental issues.
Example: “The younger generation tends to be more eco-conscious than their predecessors.”
Examiner’s Advice
To excel in the IELTS Speaking test when discussing environmental advocacy:
- Stay informed about current environmental issues and advocates in your country.
- Practice using sophisticated vocabulary and complex sentence structures.
- Develop your ideas fully, providing examples and explanations to support your points.
- Show a genuine interest in the topic and be prepared to discuss your personal views.
- Use linking words and phrases to connect your ideas smoothly.
Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is not just about what you say, but how you say it. Confidence, fluency, and the ability to express complex ideas clearly are all crucial factors in achieving a high score.
By following these guidelines and practicing regularly, you’ll be well-prepared to discuss environmental advocacy and other related topics in your IELTS Speaking test. Good luck!
For more tips on improving your IELTS Speaking skills, check out our articles on describing a famous person you would like to meet and discussing why preserving cultural heritage is important.