Mastering IELTS Speaking: How to Describe a New Skill You Want to Learn

The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about personal experiences and future plans. One common topic that frequently appears is describing a new skill you want to learn. This subject allows examiners to assess your ability to express ambitions, explain reasons, and discuss potential challenges. Let’s explore how to effectively answer questions related to this topic and maximize your Speaking score.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In Part 1, the examiner may ask general questions about skills and learning. Here are some possible questions and sample answers:

1. Do you enjoy learning new skills?
2. What was the last new skill you learned?
3. Are there any skills you find difficult to learn?

Let’s focus on question 1:

Examiner: Do you enjoy learning new skills?

Sample Answer (Band 6-7):
Yes, I do. I think learning new skills is really important for personal growth. It keeps my mind active and helps me stay competitive in my career. Recently, I’ve been trying to learn how to code, which has been challenging but rewarding.

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
Absolutely! I find the process of acquiring new skills to be incredibly exhilarating and fulfilling. Not only does it broaden my horizons and enhance my cognitive abilities, but it also provides me with a sense of accomplishment. For instance, I’m currently delving into the world of artificial intelligence, which has opened up fascinating avenues for both personal and professional development.

Part 2: Long Turn

Here’s a sample cue card related to describing a new skill you want to learn:

Describe a new skill you want to learn

You should say:

• What the skill is
• Why you want to learn it
• How you plan to learn it
• And explain how this skill might be useful in your future

Sample Answer (Band 6-7):

The new skill I want to learn is public speaking. I’ve always been a bit nervous about talking in front of large groups, but I realize it’s an important skill to have in many jobs.

I want to learn public speaking because I think it will help me in my career. Many jobs require you to give presentations or speak at meetings, and I want to be able to do that confidently. Also, I think it will help me feel more comfortable in social situations.

To learn this skill, I plan to join a local Toastmasters club. They have regular meetings where members practice giving speeches and get feedback. I also want to watch some online tutorials about public speaking techniques.

I think this skill will be really useful in my future. It could help me get better jobs or promotions because many employers value good communication skills. It might also help me in my personal life, like if I ever need to give a speech at a wedding or another important event.

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):

The skill I’m eager to acquire is the art of public speaking. As someone who has always been somewhat reticent in large gatherings, I’ve come to recognize the immense value of being able to articulate one’s thoughts clearly and confidently before an audience.

My desire to master this skill stems from both personal and professional aspirations. In the corporate world, the ability to deliver compelling presentations and engage effectively in high-stakes meetings can be a game-changer. Moreover, I believe that honing this skill will significantly boost my self-confidence and allow me to make a more substantial impact in various social contexts.

To embark on this journey, I’ve devised a multi-faceted approach. Firstly, I plan to join a local Toastmasters club, renowned for providing a supportive environment for budding speakers. Additionally, I intend to immerse myself in online resources, including TED Talks and specialized courses on platforms like Coursera. To complement these efforts, I’ll be seeking opportunities to speak at community events and volunteer organizations, allowing me to practice in real-world settings.

The potential applications of this skill in my future are manifold. In my career, it could open doors to leadership positions that require the ability to inspire and motivate teams. It might also enable me to pursue entrepreneurial ventures, where pitching ideas to investors is crucial. On a personal level, it could empower me to advocate more effectively for causes I’m passionate about, or even share my experiences at conferences in my field of expertise.

Follow-up Questions:

1. What challenges do you anticipate in learning this skill?
2. How long do you think it will take to become proficient in public speaking?

Sample Answer for Question 1 (Band 8-9):
The primary challenge I foresee is overcoming my inherent anxiety associated with public speaking. It’s a deeply ingrained fear for many, often stemming from concerns about judgment or making mistakes. Additionally, mastering the nuances of effective communication, such as body language, voice modulation, and audience engagement, will require consistent practice and keen self-awareness. Another hurdle might be finding sufficient opportunities to practice in authentic settings, as simulated environments can only take you so far in building real-world confidence.

Overcoming challenges in developing public speaking skills

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

Examiner: How do you think the way people learn new skills has changed in recent years?

Sample Answer (Band 6-7):
I think the internet has really changed how people learn new skills. Now, there are so many online courses and tutorials that you can learn almost anything from home. It’s much more convenient than before when you had to go to a physical class or learn from books. Also, social media and YouTube have made it easier to find quick tips and advice on different skills.

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
The landscape of skill acquisition has undergone a paradigm shift in recent years, primarily driven by technological advancements. The proliferation of online learning platforms such as Coursera, Udemy, and edX has democratized access to knowledge, allowing individuals to learn from world-class experts regardless of geographical constraints. This digital revolution has not only made learning more accessible but also more flexible and personalized.

Moreover, the rise of microlearning and mobile-first content has catered to the modern learner’s need for bite-sized, on-the-go information. Augmented and virtual reality technologies are also pushing the boundaries of experiential learning, enabling immersive experiences in fields like medicine and engineering.

Another significant change is the emphasis on peer-to-peer learning through forums, social media, and collaborative platforms. This has fostered a global community of learners, facilitating the exchange of ideas and real-time problem-solving.

However, it’s worth noting that this shift has also necessitated the development of digital literacy and self-discipline, as learners now need to navigate vast amounts of information and maintain motivation in self-paced environments.

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

1. Acquire /əˈkwaɪər/ (verb): To gain or obtain something
   Example: I’m determined to acquire fluency in Mandarin within the next two years.

2. Proficient /prəˈfɪʃənt/ (adjective): Skilled or competent in doing something
   Example: After months of practice, Sarah became proficient in playing the guitar.

3. Paradigm shift /ˈpærədaɪm ʃɪft/ (noun): A fundamental change in approach or underlying assumptions
   Example: The internet caused a paradigm shift in how people access information.

4. Democratize /dɪˈmɒkrətaɪz/ (verb): To make something accessible to everyone
   Example: Online courses have helped democratize education globally.

5. Immersive /ɪˈmɜːrsɪv/ (adjective): Providing or characterized by deep absorption or immersion
   Example: Virtual reality provides an immersive learning experience for medical students.

Online learning platforms revolutionizing skill acquisition

Examiner’s Advice

To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test when describing a new skill you want to learn:

1. Use a wide range of vocabulary related to learning and skill development.
2. Provide specific examples and personal experiences to support your answers.
3. Discuss both the benefits and challenges of learning the new skill.
4. Show your ability to speculate about future applications of the skill.
5. Maintain fluency by practicing your responses beforehand, but avoid sounding rehearsed.
6. Engage with the examiner by elaborating on your answers and showing enthusiasm for the topic.

By following these tips and using the sample answers as inspiration, you can craft compelling responses that showcase your English proficiency and critical thinking skills. Remember, the key is to sound natural and confident while expressing your thoughts clearly and coherently.