As an IELTS Speaking examiner, I’ve noticed that questions about laws and regulations are becoming increasingly common in the test. The topic “describe a law you would like to introduce in your country” is particularly relevant, as it allows candidates to demonstrate their critical thinking skills and awareness of social issues. Let’s explore how to approach this topic effectively in each part of the IELTS Speaking test.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, the examiner may ask general questions about laws and regulations. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:
- Do you think there are too many laws in your country?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“I believe that while we have a comprehensive legal system in place, there’s always room for improvement. Some areas might benefit from streamlining regulations, while others may require additional laws to address emerging issues. It’s a delicate balance between ensuring public safety and avoiding over-regulation.”
- What kind of people usually make laws in your country?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“In my country, laws are typically crafted by legislators who are elected by the public. These individuals often have backgrounds in law, politics, or public policy. However, the process also involves input from various stakeholders, including legal experts, industry representatives, and sometimes even public consultations. This multi-faceted approach aims to ensure that laws are well-rounded and consider different perspectives.”
Describe a time when you had to follow a strict set of rules can be a related topic that may help you prepare for questions about laws and regulations in the IELTS Speaking test.
Part 2: Long Turn
Here’s a sample cue card for this topic:
Describe a law you would like to introduce in your country
You should say:
- What the law would be
- Why you think this law is needed
- How this law would change people’s lives
- And explain any potential challenges in implementing this law
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to propose a law that mandates comprehensive financial education in all secondary schools across the country. This law would require students to take courses on personal finance, budgeting, investing, and understanding credit from grades 9 to 12.
I believe this law is crucial because financial literacy is a fundamental life skill that many young adults lack when they enter the workforce or higher education. By providing this education early, we can empower the next generation to make informed financial decisions, avoid debt traps, and build long-term wealth.
This law would significantly impact people’s lives by equipping them with the knowledge to manage their finances effectively. It could lead to reduced personal debt, increased savings rates, and better retirement planning among the population. Moreover, it might foster a more financially stable society, potentially reducing the strain on social welfare systems.
However, implementing this law would face some challenges. Firstly, there’s the issue of curriculum development and ensuring that the content remains relevant in a rapidly changing financial landscape. Secondly, we’d need to train teachers or bring in financial experts to deliver these courses effectively. Lastly, there might be resistance from those who believe that financial education should be the responsibility of parents rather than schools.
Despite these challenges, I firmly believe that the long-term benefits of such a law would far outweigh the initial difficulties. It’s an investment in our country’s future financial health and stability.”
Students learning about financial literacy
Follow-up questions:
- How do you think this law would affect different socioeconomic groups?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“This law could have a particularly positive impact on lower-income groups by providing them with knowledge and tools to better manage their finances and potentially break cycles of poverty. However, we’d need to ensure that the curriculum is inclusive and relevant to all socioeconomic backgrounds.”
- What role do you think technology could play in implementing this law?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“Technology could be instrumental in delivering this financial education. We could develop interactive online platforms, mobile apps for practical exercises, and even use virtual reality for simulations of real-world financial scenarios. This would make the learning experience more engaging and accessible, potentially even extending it beyond the classroom to parents and the wider community.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In this part, the examiner might ask more abstract questions related to laws and their impact on society. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:
- How do you think the process of making laws could be improved in your country?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I believe the lawmaking process could be enhanced by increasing public participation and transparency. This could involve leveraging technology to facilitate online public consultations, creating citizen panels to provide input on proposed laws, and using data analytics to assess the potential impact of new regulations. Additionally, incorporating more interdisciplinary expertise in the drafting process could lead to more comprehensive and effective laws.”
- Do you think international laws are becoming more important in today’s globalized world?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“Absolutely. As our world becomes increasingly interconnected, international laws play a crucial role in addressing global challenges such as climate change, cybercrime, and human trafficking. These issues transcend national borders and require coordinated efforts and standardized regulations. However, balancing international laws with national sovereignty remains a complex challenge that requires ongoing diplomacy and cooperation.”
International legal cooperation concept
- How can lawmakers ensure that new laws don’t infringe on personal freedoms?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“Striking a balance between public safety and personal freedoms is indeed a delicate task. Lawmakers should prioritize transparency in the legislative process, allowing for public scrutiny and debate. They should also conduct thorough impact assessments, considering potential unintended consequences on various groups. Additionally, incorporating sunset clauses in certain laws can ensure they’re reviewed and potentially revised or repealed if they prove to be overly restrictive. Ultimately, a robust system of checks and balances, including an independent judiciary, is crucial in safeguarding personal freedoms.”
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
Mandate (verb) /mænˈdeɪt/ – to officially require something
Example: “The new law mandates that all businesses provide health insurance to their employees.”Comprehensive (adjective) /ˌkɒmprɪˈhensɪv/ – including everything or nearly everything
Example: “We need a comprehensive approach to tackle climate change.”Implement (verb) /ˈɪmplɪment/ – to put a plan or system into operation
Example: “Implementing the new curriculum will require additional teacher training.”Stakeholder (noun) /ˈsteɪkhəʊldə(r)/ – a person or group with an interest or concern in something
Example: “All stakeholders were consulted before finalizing the environmental policy.”Transparency (noun) /trænsˈpærənsi/ – the quality of being open and honest
Example: “Greater transparency in government operations can help build public trust.”
Describe a person who motivates you to be creative can provide inspiration for discussing influential figures who might shape your ideas about laws and societal changes.
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when discussing laws and regulations:
Develop your ideas fully: Don’t just state your opinion, but explain your reasoning and provide specific examples.
Use a range of vocabulary: Incorporate legal and political terminology appropriately, but ensure you fully understand the words you’re using.
Demonstrate critical thinking: Show that you can consider multiple perspectives and potential consequences of laws.
Maintain fluency: Practice speaking on complex topics to improve your ability to articulate your thoughts smoothly.
Stay relevant: Ensure your answers directly address the question asked, even when sharing personal anecdotes or examples.
Show awareness of current affairs: Familiarize yourself with recent legal developments or debates in your country and globally.
Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is not just about knowing the right answers, but about communicating your ideas effectively and confidently.
Describe a place in your town that you think should be improved can be a great way to practice discussing societal changes, which is closely related to introducing new laws.
By following these guidelines and practicing regularly, you’ll be well-prepared to discuss laws and regulations in your IELTS Speaking test, demonstrating the language skills and critical thinking abilities that examiners are looking for.