The topic “Describe A Law That You Like” is a common theme in IELTS Speaking tests, particularly in Part 2. This subject allows examiners to assess your ability to discuss legal matters, express personal opinions, and demonstrate your understanding of societal norms. Let’s explore how to tackle this topic effectively to achieve a high band score.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, the examiner may ask general questions about laws and regulations. Here are some common questions you might encounter:
- Do you think laws are important in society?
- Are there any laws in your country that you disagree with?
- How do people in your country generally view law enforcement?
Let’s focus on the first question as an example:
Examiner: Do you think laws are important in society?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“Absolutely, I believe laws play a crucial role in maintaining order and harmony in society. They serve as a framework for acceptable behavior and help protect individuals’ rights. Without laws, we might face chaos and injustice. For instance, traffic laws ensure road safety, while property laws safeguard our possessions. Laws also promote equality by ensuring that everyone, regardless of their status, is held to the same standards.”
Part 2: Long Turn
For this section, let’s create a cue card based on the topic:
Describe a law that you like
You should say:
- What the law is
- When it was introduced
- How you learned about this law
- And explain why you like this law
Here’s a sample answer for Band 8-9:
“I’d like to talk about a law that I particularly appreciate, which is the Right to Education Act in India. This law was enacted in 2009 and mandates free and compulsory education for all children between the ages of 6 and 14.
I first learned about this law during my undergraduate studies in social sciences. We had a module on education policies, and this act was a significant part of our curriculum. As we delved deeper into its implications and impact, I became increasingly fascinated by its potential to transform society.
The reason I admire this law is its far-reaching consequences for social equality and national development. By making education a fundamental right, it aims to break the cycle of poverty and empower marginalized communities. It’s not just about providing access to schools; the act also sets standards for quality education, ensuring that children receive meaningful learning experiences.
What I find particularly commendable is how the law addresses various barriers to education. It prohibits practices like corporal punishment and mandates the formation of School Management Committees to involve parents in the educational process. These provisions create a more inclusive and supportive learning environment.
Moreover, the act has a ripple effect on other social issues. When more children are educated, it leads to better health outcomes, increased awareness of rights, and improved economic prospects for families. It’s a law that truly invests in the future of the nation.
In conclusion, the Right to Education Act stands out to me as a progressive piece of legislation that addresses a fundamental human right and has the potential to bring about significant positive change in society.”
Possible follow-up questions:
- How effectively do you think this law has been implemented?
- Are there any challenges in enforcing this law?
Sample answer for question 1 (Band 8-9):
“While the implementation of the Right to Education Act has made significant strides, its effectiveness varies across different regions of India. In urban areas, we’ve seen a marked improvement in enrollment rates and infrastructure development. However, rural and remote areas still face challenges in terms of teacher availability and quality of education. The law has certainly raised awareness about the importance of education, but bridging the gap between policy and practice remains an ongoing process. It’s encouraging to see various NGOs and government initiatives working together to address these challenges and continuously improve the implementation of this crucial law.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In this section, the examiner might ask more abstract questions related to laws and education. Here’s an example:
Examiner: How do you think education laws impact a country’s economic development?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“Education laws, particularly those ensuring universal access to quality education, can have a profound impact on a country’s economic development. Firstly, they contribute to the creation of a skilled workforce, which is essential for innovation and productivity across various sectors. When more people have access to education, it leads to a more diverse talent pool, driving competition and excellence in the job market.
Moreover, education laws often correlate with reduced income inequality. As more individuals gain access to quality education, they have better opportunities for higher-paying jobs and entrepreneurship. This, in turn, can lead to increased consumer spending and a more robust economy.
Another critical aspect is how education laws can foster technological advancement. Countries with strong educational foundations are better positioned to adapt to and lead in emerging technologies, which is crucial in today’s rapidly evolving global economy.
However, it’s important to note that the effectiveness of these laws depends on their implementation. Simply having laws in place isn’t enough; they need to be backed by adequate funding, infrastructure, and quality teaching to truly impact economic development.
In conclusion, well-crafted and properly implemented education laws can serve as a catalyst for economic growth, creating a more skilled, adaptable, and prosperous society.”
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
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Crucial role /ˈkruːʃəl rəʊl/ (adj. + n.): Vitally important function
Example: Laws play a crucial role in maintaining social order. -
Framework /ˈfreɪmwɜːk/ (n.): A basic structure underlying a system or concept
Example: The constitution provides a framework for all other laws. -
Enacted /ɪˈnæktɪd/ (v.): Put into law
Example: The Right to Education Act was enacted in 2009. -
Mandates /ˈmændeɪts/ (v.): Officially requires
Example: The law mandates free education for all children. -
Far-reaching consequences /fɑː riːtʃɪŋ ˈkɒnsɪkwənsɪz/ (adj. + n.): Extensive effects
Example: This legislation has far-reaching consequences for society. -
Commendable /kəˈmendəbl/ (adj.): Deserving praise
Example: The government’s efforts to improve education are commendable. -
Ripple effect /ˈrɪpl ɪˈfekt/ (n.): A spreading effect or series of consequences
Example: Education has a ripple effect on various aspects of society. -
Progressive piece of legislation /prəˈɡresɪv piːs əv ˌledʒɪsˈleɪʃn/ (phrase): A law that introduces new ideas or changes
Example: The Equal Pay Act is considered a progressive piece of legislation.
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when discussing laws:
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Develop your ideas: Don’t just state your opinion; explain why you hold it and provide examples.
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Use a range of vocabulary: Incorporate legal and formal terms, but ensure you use them correctly.
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Maintain fluency: Practice speaking on various topics to improve your ability to speak at length without hesitation.
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Show critical thinking: Discuss both positive and negative aspects of laws to demonstrate balanced reasoning.
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Stay relevant: Always relate your answers back to the question, even when sharing personal experiences.
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Speaking is not just about knowing the answers, but about expressing your thoughts clearly and confidently. Regular practice with a variety of topics, including those related to laws and societal issues, will help you perform well on test day.
By following these guidelines and practicing regularly, you’ll be well-prepared to describe a law you would like to see changed or any other topic that may come up in your IELTS Speaking test. Good luck with your preparation!