Learning a new language is a valuable skill that can open doors to new opportunities. In IELTS Speaking tests, candidates are often asked to discuss languages they wish to master. This topic has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to remain relevant in future tests. Let’s explore how to effectively answer questions about languages you want to learn, with sample responses for different band scores.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In this section, the examiner may ask questions like:

1. Do you speak any foreign languages?
2. What language would you like to learn in the future?
3. How important is it to learn a foreign language?

Let’s look at a sample answer for question 2:

Sample answer (Band 7-8):

“I’ve always been fascinated by Mandarin Chinese. It’s not only the most widely spoken language in the world, but it also has a rich cultural heritage. I believe mastering Mandarin would be incredibly beneficial for my career prospects, especially considering China’s growing economic influence. Moreover, I’m intrigued by the challenge of learning a tonal language with a completely different writing system from English.”

Describe a technology you want to use more proficiently to enhance your language learning experience. Many language learners use apps and online platforms to practice their target language regularly.

Part 2: Long Turn

Cue Card

Describe A Language You Wish To Master

You should say:

• What the language is
• Why you want to learn it
• How you plan to learn it
• And explain how learning this language will benefit you

Sample answer (Band 6-7):

“The language I wish to master is Spanish. I’ve always been interested in Hispanic culture, and I think Spanish is a beautiful language. I want to learn it because it’s widely spoken in many countries, and it could be useful for my future career in international business.

To learn Spanish, I plan to take evening classes at a local language school. I also want to use language learning apps on my phone and watch Spanish movies with subtitles. I think immersion is important, so I might try to find a language exchange partner to practice speaking with.

Learning Spanish will benefit me in several ways. Firstly, it will open up job opportunities in Spanish-speaking countries. Secondly, it will allow me to communicate with more people when I travel. Lastly, learning a new language is good for brain health and can improve cognitive skills.”

Sample answer (Band 8-9):

“The language I’m absolutely determined to master is Japanese. I’ve been captivated by Japanese culture since childhood, particularly its rich history of literature and cinema. The intricate writing system, with its combination of kanji, hiragana, and katakana, presents an exciting intellectual challenge that I’m eager to tackle.

My plan to learn Japanese is multi-faceted. I’ve already enrolled in an intensive language course at a reputable institute, which will provide a solid foundation in grammar and vocabulary. To complement this, I’m using spaced repetition software to efficiently memorize kanji characters. I also intend to immerse myself in the language by watching Japanese films without subtitles and participating in language exchange programs with native speakers.

Mastering Japanese will undoubtedly open up a plethora of opportunities. Professionally, it will give me a competitive edge in the Asian market, where Japan remains a economic powerhouse. Culturally, it will allow me to delve deeper into Japanese literature, reading works like Haruki Murakami’s in their original form. Moreover, the cognitive benefits of bilingualism, such as enhanced problem-solving skills and delayed onset of dementia, are well-documented. Ultimately, learning Japanese is not just about acquiring a new skill; it’s about broadening my horizons and gaining a new perspective on the world.”

Japanese language learning materials

Follow-up questions:

1. What challenges do you anticipate in learning this language?
2. How long do you think it will take you to become fluent?

Sample answer (Band 7-8):

1. “The main challenges I anticipate in learning Japanese are mastering the complex writing system and getting used to the different sentence structure. Japanese uses kanji characters borrowed from Chinese, as well as two phonetic writing systems, which can be overwhelming for beginners. Additionally, the sentence structure in Japanese is quite different from English, with verbs typically coming at the end of sentences. This will require a significant mental adjustment.”

2. “Achieving fluency in Japanese is likely to be a long-term endeavor. Given its linguistic distance from English and the complexity of its writing system, I estimate it could take anywhere from 3 to 5 years of consistent, dedicated study to reach a high level of proficiency. However, I believe I could achieve conversational fluency within 1-2 years with intensive study and immersion. It’s important to note that language learning is a lifelong process, and there’s always room for improvement even after reaching fluency.”

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

Examiner: How has technology changed the way people learn languages?

Sample answer (Band 6-7):

“Technology has made learning languages much easier and more accessible. Now, people can use apps on their phones to learn vocabulary and grammar. There are also online platforms where you can connect with native speakers for conversation practice. Video streaming services allow learners to watch movies and TV shows in foreign languages, which helps with listening skills. Overall, technology has made language learning more interactive and convenient.”

Sample answer (Band 8-9):

“Technology has revolutionized language learning in numerous ways. Artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms have enabled the development of adaptive learning platforms that tailor lessons to individual learners’ needs and progress. Virtual reality technology is now being used to create immersive language environments, allowing learners to practice in simulated real-life situations without leaving their homes.

Moreover, speech recognition software has significantly improved pronunciation practice, providing instant feedback on accent and intonation. Social media platforms and language exchange apps have made it easier than ever to connect with native speakers worldwide, facilitating authentic communication and cultural exchange.

However, it’s worth noting that while technology has made language learning more accessible and efficient, it cannot entirely replace the value of human interaction and cultural immersion. The most effective language learning strategies often combine technological tools with traditional methods and real-world practice.”

Describe a film that made you cry in a foreign language. Watching films in your target language can be an excellent way to improve listening comprehension and cultural understanding.

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

1. Captivated by /ˈkæptɪveɪtɪd baɪ/ (adjective phrase): Fascinated or enchanted by something.
   Example: “I’ve been captivated by Japanese culture since I first visited Tokyo.”

2. Immerse oneself /ɪˈmɜːrs wʌnˈself/ (phrasal verb): To involve oneself deeply in a particular activity or interest.
   Example: “To improve my Spanish, I plan to immerse myself in the language by living in Madrid for six months.”

3. Linguistic distance /lɪŋˈɡwɪstɪk ˈdɪstəns/ (noun phrase): The degree of difference between languages or dialects.
   Example: “The linguistic distance between English and Mandarin Chinese makes it challenging for native English speakers to learn.”

4. Cognitive benefits /ˈkɒɡnətɪv ˈbenɪfɪts/ (noun phrase): Advantages related to the process of acquiring knowledge and understanding.
   Example: “The cognitive benefits of bilingualism include improved problem-solving skills and enhanced creativity.”

5. Broaden one’s horizons /ˈbrɔːdn wʌnz həˈraɪznz/ (idiom): To expand the range of one’s knowledge, experience, or interests.
   Example: “Learning a new language is an excellent way to broaden one’s horizons and gain a new perspective on the world.”

Cognitive benefits of language learning

Examiner’s Advice

To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test when discussing languages you wish to master:

1. Demonstrate depth of knowledge: Show that you’ve researched the language and culture you’re interested in.

2. Use advanced vocabulary: Incorporate sophisticated language related to linguistics and learning processes.

3. Provide specific examples: Illustrate your points with concrete examples from your own experiences or plans.

4. Show critical thinking: Discuss both the benefits and challenges of learning your chosen language.

5. Maintain fluency: Practice speaking at length about language learning to improve your ability to discuss the topic fluently.

6. Use idiomatic expressions: Incorporate relevant idioms and collocations to showcase your language proficiency.

Remember, consistent practice and exposure to the language are key to improving your speaking skills. Consider describing a family member you would like to spend more time with in your target language as a way to combine language practice with personal reflection.

IELTS Speaking test preparation

By following these tips and consistently practicing, you can improve your ability to discuss languages you wish to master and increase your chances of achieving a high score on the IELTS Speaking test. Remember, describing a place in nature that brings you peace can be a great way to practice using descriptive language, which is also valuable when discussing your language learning aspirations.