The topic of describing a personal goal that you set and achieved is a common theme in IELTS Speaking tests. It allows examiners to assess your ability to articulate past experiences, reflect on personal growth, and demonstrate your language skills in discussing achievements. This topic has appeared frequently in past IELTS exams and is likely to remain relevant in future tests. Let’s explore how to approach this topic effectively across all parts of the IELTS Speaking test.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about goals and achievements. Here are some possible questions and sample answers:
Sample Question: Do you often set goals for yourself?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I do set goals for myself quite often. I find it helpful to have something to work towards, whether it’s in my studies or personal life. For example, I recently set a goal to improve my English speaking skills, which is why I’m taking this IELTS test.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely, I’m a firm believer in the power of goal-setting. I make it a habit to set both short-term and long-term goals for various aspects of my life. It’s not just about achieving the end result, but also about the personal growth that occurs during the journey. For instance, apart from preparing for this IELTS test, I’ve also set goals to read one book per week and to learn a new cooking recipe every month. These goals help me stay motivated and continually challenge myself.
Sample Question: How do you feel when you achieve a goal?
Band 6-7 Answer:
I feel really happy and proud when I achieve a goal. It gives me a sense of accomplishment and motivates me to set new goals. For example, when I finished my first 5K run last month, I felt very satisfied with my progress.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Achieving a goal evokes a complex mix of emotions for me. There’s an initial surge of elation and pride, of course, but it’s often accompanied by a profound sense of personal growth and self-reflection. I find myself analyzing the journey – the challenges I overcame, the lessons I learned, and how I’ve evolved as a person. For instance, when I recently completed a challenging coding project, I not only felt a sense of accomplishment but also gained valuable insights into my problem-solving abilities and resilience. This introspection often becomes the catalyst for setting even more ambitious goals.
Describe a goal you want to achieve in the future can be an excellent way to practice articulating your aspirations and plans, which is a crucial skill for the IELTS Speaking test.
Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)
Here’s a sample cue card related to the topic:
Describe a goal you set for yourself and achieved
You should say:
- What the goal was
- When you set this goal
- How you achieved it
- And explain how you felt when you achieved it
Band 6-7 Sample Answer:
The goal I want to talk about is learning to play the guitar. I set this goal about two years ago when I realized I wanted to have a creative hobby. To achieve this goal, I started by buying a second-hand guitar and finding some online tutorials. I practiced for at least 30 minutes every day, even when I was busy with work or studies. It was challenging at first, especially learning the chords and developing calluses on my fingertips. But I persevered and gradually improved. After about six months, I could play several simple songs. When I finally performed a full song for my friends at a small gathering, I felt a great sense of accomplishment. It was rewarding to see how my hard work had paid off, and I was proud of myself for sticking to my goal.
Band 8-9 Sample Answer:
The goal I’d like to elaborate on is mastering the art of public speaking, a skill I deemed essential for both personal and professional growth. I set this ambitious target approximately 18 months ago, prompted by a rather embarrassing experience during a presentation at work where I found myself stumbling over words and battling severe stage fright.
To achieve this goal, I adopted a multifaceted approach. Firstly, I enrolled in a comprehensive public speaking course that covered everything from speech structure to body language. Simultaneously, I joined a local Toastmasters club, which provided a supportive environment to practice regularly and receive constructive feedback. I also made it a point to volunteer for speaking opportunities at work and in community events, pushing myself out of my comfort zone.
The journey was far from smooth sailing. I encountered numerous challenges, including overcoming my inherent introversion and learning to manage my anxiety effectively. However, I persisted, constantly reminding myself of the long-term benefits. I meticulously analyzed recordings of my speeches, identifying areas for improvement and celebrating small victories along the way.
The culmination of my efforts came when I was invited to deliver a TEDx talk in my city. Standing on that red circular carpet, I felt an overwhelming sense of achievement as I delivered my speech with confidence and poise. The feeling was indescribably euphoric – a potent mix of pride, relief, and excitement. More than just the applause, what struck me was the realization of how far I’d come from that nervous presenter 18 months ago.
This experience not only boosted my self-confidence but also opened up new opportunities in my career. Most importantly, it reinforced my belief in the power of setting ambitious goals and working persistently towards them.
Follow-up questions:
- How do you stay motivated when working towards a long-term goal?
- Do you think it’s important to set both short-term and long-term goals? Why or why not?
Band 6-7 Answer (Question 1):
To stay motivated for long-term goals, I try to break them down into smaller, manageable tasks. This helps me see progress more often. I also remind myself why the goal is important to me. Sometimes, I reward myself when I reach small milestones to keep my motivation high.
Band 8-9 Answer (Question 1):
Maintaining motivation for long-term goals requires a multifaceted strategy. Firstly, I employ the technique of visualization, regularly imagining the end result and the benefits it will bring. This helps rekindle my enthusiasm during challenging phases. Additionally, I’ve found that tracking progress meticulously is crucial. I use a combination of digital tools and a physical journal to log my advancements, no matter how small. This tangible evidence of progress serves as a powerful motivator.
Furthermore, I’m a firm believer in the power of accountability. I often share my goals with trusted friends or mentors who can offer support and gentle nudges when my motivation wavers. Lastly, I’ve learned to embrace setbacks as learning opportunities rather than failures. This mindset shift helps me maintain a positive outlook and prevents temporary obstacles from derailing my long-term motivation.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In this section, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic of goals and achievements. Here are some sample questions and answers:
Sample Question: Do you think people today are more or less likely to achieve their goals compared to previous generations?
Band 6-7 Answer:
I think people today might be more likely to achieve their goals compared to previous generations. We have more resources and information available, especially with the internet. This makes it easier to learn new skills or find opportunities. However, there are also more distractions now, which could make it harder for some people to focus on their goals.
Band 8-9 Answer:
This is a nuanced question that requires careful consideration. On one hand, our generation has unprecedented access to information, resources, and global opportunities, which could theoretically make goal achievement more attainable. The democratization of knowledge through the internet has leveled the playing field in many areas, allowing individuals to acquire skills and connect with like-minded people across the globe.
However, this abundance of information and opportunities also presents unique challenges. The constant barrage of stimuli from social media and other digital platforms can lead to decreased attention spans and increased procrastination. Moreover, the rapid pace of technological change means that the goalposts are constantly shifting, requiring continuous adaptation and learning.
Another factor to consider is the evolving nature of goals themselves. Previous generations might have had more straightforward, linear paths to success, while today’s world often demands more flexibility and multifaceted skill sets. This complexity can make goal-setting and achievement both more challenging and more rewarding.
Ultimately, I believe that while the mechanisms for achieving goals have changed, success still boils down to individual determination, adaptability, and resilience. These qualities transcend generational boundaries and remain crucial for turning aspirations into reality.
Describe something you did that made you proud can be an excellent way to practice discussing achievements and personal growth, which is closely related to the topic of setting and achieving goals.
Sample Question: How important do you think it is for children to learn about setting and achieving goals?
Band 6-7 Answer:
I think it’s very important for children to learn about setting and achieving goals. It helps them develop important skills like planning and perseverance. When children set goals and work towards them, they learn that they can make things happen through their own efforts. This can boost their confidence and motivation in other areas of life too.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Teaching children about goal-setting and achievement is, in my opinion, paramount to their overall development. This skill set forms the foundation for numerous life competencies and can significantly shape a child’s future success and well-being.
Firstly, learning to set and achieve goals helps children develop critical thinking and planning skills. It encourages them to envision a desired outcome and then work backwards to identify the steps needed to reach that outcome. This process enhances their ability to think strategically and solve problems methodically.
Moreover, the journey of working towards a goal instills valuable character traits such as perseverance, resilience, and self-discipline. Children learn to navigate setbacks, adjust their strategies, and persist in the face of challenges. These are invaluable life skills that will serve them well beyond childhood.
Goal-setting also fosters a growth mindset in children. By experiencing the process of improvement through effort, they learn that abilities can be developed through dedication and hard work. This mindset can significantly boost their confidence and willingness to take on new challenges.
Furthermore, the achievement of goals, no matter how small, provides children with a sense of accomplishment and self-efficacy. This positive reinforcement can fuel their motivation and enthusiasm for learning and personal growth.
However, it’s crucial to strike a balance. While goal-setting is important, we must be careful not to over-emphasize achievement at the expense of a child’s well-being or natural curiosity. The focus should be on the process of growth and learning rather than just the end result.
In conclusion, teaching children about goal-setting and achievement is not just about preparing them for future success, but about equipping them with a robust toolkit for navigating life’s challenges and finding fulfillment in their pursuits.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
To enhance your responses and aim for higher band scores, consider incorporating these advanced vocabulary items and phrases:
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Multifaceted approach /ˌmʌltiˈfæsɪtɪd əˈprəʊtʃ/ (adj. + n.): A strategy that has many different aspects or features.
Example: I adopted a multifaceted approach to learning English, combining formal classes with immersive experiences and self-study. -
Perseverance /ˌpɜːsɪˈvɪərəns/ (n.): Continued effort and determination despite difficulties.
Example: My success in achieving this goal was largely due to my perseverance in the face of numerous setbacks. -
Meticulously /məˈtɪkjələsli/ (adv.): In a way that shows great attention to detail; very thoroughly.
Example: I meticulously planned each step of my goal achievement process. -
Culmination /ˌkʌlmɪˈneɪʃn/ (n.): The highest or climactic point of something.
Example: Winning the national competition was the culmination of years of hard work and dedication. -
Tangible evidence /ˈtændʒəbl ˈevɪdəns/ (adj. + n.): Proof that can be clearly seen or felt.
Example: The improvements in my test scores provided tangible evidence of my progress. -
To embrace setbacks /tu ɪmˈbreɪs ˈsetbæks/ (phrase): To accept or welcome difficulties as opportunities for growth.
Example: I learned to embrace setbacks as valuable learning experiences rather than failures. -
Democratization of knowledge /dɪˌmɒkrətaɪˈzeɪʃn əv ˈnɒlɪdʒ/ (phrase): The process of making information and learning accessible to everyone.
Example: The internet has led to a democratization of knowledge, making it easier for people to pursue their goals. -
Self-efficacy /self ˈefɪkəsi/ (n.): Belief in one’s ability to succeed in specific situations or accomplish a task.
Example: Achieving small goals along the way boosted my self-efficacy and motivated me to tackle bigger challenges.
Describe a time when you set and achieved a personal goal is an excellent opportunity to practice using these advanced vocabulary items in context.
Examiner’s Advice
To excel in the IELTS Speaking test when discussing goals and achievements:
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Be specific and provide detailed examples. Instead of general statements, focus on one particular goal and describe it vividly.
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Use a variety of tenses correctly to discuss past actions, the process of achievement, and future implications.
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Incorporate advanced vocabulary and idiomatic expressions naturally into your responses.
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Demonstrate critical thinking by discussing both the positive aspects and challenges of goal-setting and achievement.
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Practice speaking about your goals and achievements regularly, recording yourself and analyzing your responses for areas of improvement.
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Focus on fluency and coherence by organizing your thoughts logically and using appropriate linking words.
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Show enthusiasm and engagement with the topic through your tone and body language.
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 band score.
Describe a person who encourages you to pursue your dreams can be an excellent way to expand on the topic of goal achievement, as support from others often plays a crucial role in our success.
By following these guidelines and incorporating the suggested vocabulary and phrases, you’ll be well-equipped to discuss your goals and achievements effectively in the IELTS Speaking test. Remember to practice regularly and seek feedback to continually improve your performance. Good luck with your IELTS preparation!