Mastering IELTS Speaking: How to Effectively Describe a Recent News Article

The topic “Describe A News Article You Read Recently” is a common one in IELTS Speaking tests. It allows examiners to assess your ability to discuss current events, express opinions, and use relevant vocabulary. This topic has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to continue being a popular choice for future tests. Let’s explore how to approach this topic effectively across all parts of the IELTS Speaking exam.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In Part 1, the examiner may ask some general questions about news and your reading habits. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:

Q: Do you often read the news?

Band 6-7 Answer: Yes, I try to read the news regularly. I usually check headlines on my phone in the morning and sometimes read longer articles in the evening.

Band 8-9 Answer: Absolutely, I make it a point to stay informed about current events. I have a daily routine of perusing various news sources, both local and international, to get a well-rounded view of what’s happening in the world. I find it essential to be aware of global issues and developments in different fields.

Q: What type of news interests you the most?

Band 6-7 Answer: I’m most interested in technology news. I like reading about new gadgets and scientific discoveries. It’s fascinating to see how technology is changing our lives.

Band 8-9 Answer: I’m particularly drawn to news related to environmental issues and sustainable development. I find it compelling to follow stories about innovative solutions to climate change, biodiversity conservation efforts, and renewable energy advancements. These topics not only keep me informed but also inspire me to consider how I can contribute to a more sustainable future.

Describe a recent environmental issue in your country is another topic that often comes up in IELTS Speaking tests, allowing you to demonstrate your knowledge of current affairs and environmental awareness.

Part 2: Long Turn

Here’s a sample cue card for this topic:

Describe a news article you read recently
You should say:
- What the article was about
- Where you read it
- Why you found it interesting
And explain how you felt after reading this article

Band 6-7 Sample Answer:

I recently read an interesting article about a new type of plastic that can decompose in just a few weeks. I came across this article while browsing the BBC News website on my phone. The article explained how scientists have developed a plastic material that breaks down quickly when exposed to sunlight and air, unlike traditional plastics that can take hundreds of years to decompose.

I found this article fascinating because plastic pollution is a huge problem worldwide. The idea that we might have a solution to reduce plastic waste is really exciting. The article mentioned that this new plastic could be used for packaging and other single-use items, which could make a big difference in reducing environmental damage.

After reading the article, I felt hopeful and optimistic. It’s great to see that scientists are working on solutions to environmental problems. I think this kind of innovation could really help in the fight against plastic pollution. At the same time, I felt curious about when this new plastic might become widely available and how it would be implemented in everyday products.

Band 8-9 Sample Answer:

I recently came across a captivating article in Nature, a prestigious scientific journal, detailing groundbreaking research on a novel type of biodegradable plastic. This innovative material, developed by a team of international scientists, has the remarkable ability to decompose within a matter of weeks when exposed to natural elements such as sunlight and air, in stark contrast to conventional plastics that persist in the environment for centuries.

The article delved into the intricacies of the molecular structure of this new plastic, explaining how it was engineered to break down rapidly without leaving harmful microplastics behind. What particularly piqued my interest was the potential wide-ranging applications of this material, from food packaging to disposable medical supplies, and its potential to revolutionize our approach to single-use plastics.

I found this article exceptionally engaging for several reasons. Firstly, it represents a significant breakthrough in addressing one of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time – plastic pollution. The innovative nature of the solution, combining cutting-edge chemistry with environmental consciousness, was truly inspiring. Moreover, the article highlighted the collaborative effort of scientists from diverse backgrounds, underscoring the importance of international cooperation in tackling global issues.

Upon finishing the article, I experienced a mix of emotions. Predominantly, I felt a surge of optimism about the future of environmental conservation. The fact that such ingenious solutions are being developed gave me hope that we can indeed make substantial progress in combating pollution. Simultaneously, I felt a sense of intellectual curiosity, eager to learn more about the practical implications of this discovery and how it might be scaled up for mass production.

This article also prompted me to reflect on my own consumption habits and the role each individual plays in environmental stewardship. It reinforced my belief in the power of science and innovation to address complex global challenges, while also reminding me of the urgency of supporting and implementing such solutions.

IELTS Speaking: Describing a news article about biodegradable plastic

Follow-up questions:

1. How do you think this new plastic will impact the environment?
2. Do you believe this technology will be widely adopted? Why or why not?

Band 6-7 Answer:

1. I think this new plastic could have a big positive impact on the environment. It could really help reduce plastic pollution in our oceans and landfills. If we use this instead of regular plastic, there might be less waste building up over time.

2. I hope it will be widely adopted, but it might take some time. Companies will need to change their manufacturing processes, which could be expensive. Also, people might be unsure about using a new type of plastic at first. But if it works well and isn’t too costly, I think many businesses will want to use it to show they care about the environment.

Band 8-9 Answer:

1. The potential environmental impact of this biodegradable plastic is profound and far-reaching. By significantly reducing the persistence of plastic waste in ecosystems, it could alleviate the burden on marine life, soil health, and even human food chains. Moreover, it might catalyze a shift in our approach to waste management, encouraging more sustainable practices across industries and in everyday life.

2. The adoption of this technology is likely to be a gradual but inevitable process. Initially, we may see niche applications in environmentally conscious markets or industries under strict regulations. However, as consumer awareness grows and environmental policies become more stringent, there will be increasing pressure on businesses to transition to more sustainable materials. The key factors influencing widespread adoption will be scalability, cost-effectiveness, and performance compared to traditional plastics. If these aspects are successfully addressed, we could witness a paradigm shift in plastic use across various sectors.

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

In Part 3, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:

Q: How has the way people consume news changed in recent years?

Band 6-7 Answer: People nowadays mostly read news on their smartphones or computers instead of traditional newspapers. Social media has also become a popular source of news for many people, especially younger generations. This change means we can access news more quickly and from many different sources.

Band 8-9 Answer: The landscape of news consumption has undergone a radical transformation in recent years, primarily driven by technological advancements. We’ve witnessed a significant shift from traditional print media to digital platforms, with mobile devices becoming the predominant means of accessing news. This transition has led to the rise of real-time reporting and personalized news feeds, tailored to individual interests and preferences.

Moreover, social media platforms have emerged as influential news disseminators, often breaking stories before traditional outlets. This democratization of information sharing has its pros and cons – while it allows for rapid dissemination of news, it also raises concerns about the accuracy and credibility of information. The 24/7 news cycle has created an environment where people are constantly connected to current events, which can be both informative and overwhelming.

Another noteworthy change is the increasing popularity of news aggregators and curated content, which allow users to access a diverse range of perspectives on a single platform. This shift has led to more fragmented and diverse news consumption patterns, challenging the traditional model of a few dominant news sources shaping public opinion.

Q: Do you think traditional newspapers will become obsolete in the future?

Band 6-7 Answer: It’s possible that traditional newspapers might become less common in the future. Many people prefer to read news online because it’s more convenient and up-to-date. However, some people still enjoy reading physical newspapers, so they might not disappear completely. It’s hard to predict exactly what will happen.

Band 8-9 Answer: The future of traditional newspapers is a complex and nuanced issue. While it’s undeniable that print media has experienced a significant decline in recent years, I don’t believe traditional newspapers will become entirely obsolete. Instead, we’re likely to see a transformation and adaptation of their role in the media landscape.

Firstly, many established newspapers have already successfully pivoted to digital platforms, offering a blend of online and print content. This hybrid model allows them to maintain their journalistic integrity while catering to changing consumer preferences. Additionally, print newspapers still hold a unique position in terms of in-depth analysis and investigative reporting, which is often challenging to replicate in the fast-paced digital news environment.

Moreover, there’s a tangible quality to print media that some readers continue to value. The physicality of a newspaper, free from digital distractions, can offer a more focused and immersive reading experience. This aspect might ensure a niche market for print newspapers, particularly for special editions or weekend issues.

However, the survival of traditional newspapers will likely depend on their ability to innovate and offer value beyond mere news reporting. This could include leveraging their brand credibility to provide premium content, exclusive insights, or specialized local coverage that digital-only platforms might overlook.

In essence, while the format and distribution of newspapers may evolve, the core principles of quality journalism and in-depth reporting that they represent are likely to endure, albeit in potentially different forms.

Comparing digital and print news consumption trends

Describe a book you recently read that changed your perspective is another interesting topic that allows you to discuss how media, including books and news articles, can influence our thoughts and views.

Key Vocabulary and Phrases

To score high in your IELTS Speaking test, use a range of advanced vocabulary and idiomatic expressions. Here are some relevant terms and phrases:

1. Groundbreaking /ˈɡraʊnd.breɪ.kɪŋ/ (adjective): Very new and a big change from other things of its type.
   Example: “The article described a groundbreaking discovery in plastic technology.”

2. To delve into /delv ˈɪn.tuː/ (phrasal verb): To examine or discuss something in detail.
   Example: “The news article delved into the complexities of the new biodegradable plastic.”

3. Paradigm shift /ˈpær.ə.daɪm ʃɪft/ (noun): A major change in the concepts and practices of how something works or is accomplished.
   Example: “The invention of this new plastic could lead to a paradigm shift in how we approach waste management.”

4. To pique one’s interest /piːk wʌnz ˈɪn.trəst/ (idiom): To arouse someone’s curiosity or interest.
   Example: “The innovative nature of the solution piqued my interest in environmental science.”

5. Cutting-edge /ˌkʌt.ɪŋ ˈedʒ/ (adjective): Very modern and advanced.
   Example: “The article showcased cutting-edge technology in plastic production.”

6. To catalyze /ˈkæt.əl.aɪz/ (verb): To cause or accelerate a reaction.
   Example: “This discovery could catalyze significant changes in the packaging industry.”

Using these terms and phrases appropriately in your responses can demonstrate a high level of English proficiency and help you achieve a better score in your IELTS Speaking test.

Examiner’s Advice

To excel in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when discussing news articles:

1. Stay informed about current events across various fields. Regularly reading news from reputable sources will provide you with a wealth of topics to discuss.

2. Practice expressing your opinions on news stories. Be prepared to not just summarize an article, but also to analyze its implications and share your personal views.

3. Work on expanding your vocabulary, especially terms related to media, technology, and current affairs. Use these words naturally in your responses.

4. Improve your fluency by regularly discussing news stories with others or speaking about them aloud to yourself.

5. When describing a news article, structure your response logically. Start with the main topic, then provide details, and conclude with your reaction or opinion.

6. Use a variety of sentence structures and tenses to demonstrate your language proficiency.

7. Practice answering follow-up questions to improve your ability to think on your feet and extend the discussion beyond the initial topic.

Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is not just about what you say, but how you say it. Aim for clarity, fluency, and depth in your responses.

Describe an important skill you learned in school is another topic that can help you practice articulating your thoughts clearly and providing detailed explanations, which are crucial skills for the IELTS Speaking test.