In the IELTS Speaking test, candidates often encounter questions about describing people, particularly those who stand out for their unique qualities. One such topic that frequently appears is describing a person who always has interesting ideas. This article will guide you through effectively tackling this subject in your IELTS Speaking exam, providing sample answers and valuable tips to help you achieve a high band score.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In this section, the examiner may ask you general questions about creativity and ideas. Here are some potential questions you might encounter:

1. Do you consider yourself a creative person?
2. How important do you think it is to have new ideas?
3. Where do you think people get their ideas from?

Let’s look at a sample answer for the first question:

Examiner: Do you consider yourself a creative person?

Candidate (Band 7-8 response): “I’d say I’m fairly creative, especially when it comes to problem-solving. I often find myself thinking outside the box and coming up with unconventional solutions to challenges at work or in my personal life. However, I wouldn’t claim to be exceptionally creative in artistic pursuits like painting or music.”

This response demonstrates a good range of vocabulary and a nuanced understanding of creativity, which are key factors in achieving a higher band score.

Describe a time when you showed something new to someone is another topic that might come up in this context, as it also relates to sharing ideas and knowledge.

Part 2: Long Turn

In this section, you’ll be given a cue card with a topic to speak about for 1-2 minutes. Here’s a sample cue card related to our main topic:

Describe A Person Who Always Has Interesting Ideas

You should say:
- Who this person is
- How you know this person
- What kind of ideas this person has
- And explain why you think their ideas are interesting

Sample Answer (Band 8-9)

“I’d like to talk about my friend Sarah, who is a constant source of inspiration due to her fascinating ideas. I met Sarah during our university days when we were both studying computer science, and we’ve remained close friends ever since.

Sarah has an uncanny ability to come up with innovative solutions to everyday problems. Her ideas often bridge the gap between technology and social issues, which I find particularly intriguing. For instance, she recently proposed a groundbreaking app that connects lonely elderly people with young volunteers for companionship and assistance.

What makes Sarah’s ideas so interesting is her unique perspective on the world. She has this remarkable talent for identifying overlooked issues and approaching them from unconventional angles. Her ideas are not just creative; they’re often practical and impactful.

I’m constantly amazed by her ability to think outside the box and see connections that others miss. Sarah’s ideas challenge conventional wisdom and often lead to thought-provoking discussions. Her innovative thinking has even inspired me to approach problems in my own life more creatively.”

This response demonstrates a wide range of vocabulary, complex sentence structures, and clear organization – all crucial elements for achieving a high band score in IELTS Speaking.

Creative person with interesting ideas

Follow-up Questions

After your long turn, the examiner might ask you some additional questions. For example:

Examiner: How do you think people can develop their creativity?

Candidate (Band 8-9 response): “I believe there are several ways to cultivate creativity. Firstly, exposing oneself to diverse experiences and perspectives can broaden one’s horizons and spark new ideas. Additionally, practicing mindfulness and allowing time for reflection can help in connecting disparate concepts in novel ways. Engaging in creative exercises, such as brainstorming or free writing, can also stimulate innovative thinking. Lastly, I think it’s crucial to create an environment conducive to creativity, where failure is seen as a learning opportunity rather than a setback.”

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

In this section, the examiner will ask you more abstract questions related to the topic. Here’s a sample question and response:

Examiner: Do you think schools do enough to encourage creativity in students?

Candidate (Band 8-9 response): “While I believe schools are making efforts to foster creativity, there’s still significant room for improvement. Many educational systems still prioritize standardized testing and rote learning, which can stifle creative thinking. However, I’ve observed a gradual shift towards more project-based learning and interdisciplinary approaches, which can nurture creativity.

I think schools could do more by integrating arts into STEM subjects, encouraging open-ended problem-solving, and providing more opportunities for students to pursue passion projects. Additionally, training teachers in techniques to foster creativity and creating a classroom environment that welcomes diverse ideas could significantly enhance students’ creative abilities.

Ultimately, I believe that cultivating creativity is crucial in preparing students for the rapidly changing job market, where innovative thinking and adaptability are increasingly valued.”

This response demonstrates critical thinking, a range of complex vocabulary, and the ability to discuss abstract concepts – all important for achieving a high band score in Part 3.

Describe a person who inspired you to do something interesting is another topic that shares similarities with discussing creative individuals, as inspirational people often have interesting ideas.

Key Vocabulary and Phrases

To boost your IELTS Speaking score, incorporate these words and phrases into your responses:

1. Innovative /ˈɪnəveɪtɪv/ (adjective): Introducing new ideas; original and creative in thinking.
   Example: “Her innovative approach to problem-solving sets her apart from others.”

2. Think outside the box (idiom): To think creatively, unconventionally, or from a new perspective.
   Example: “To solve this complex issue, we need to think outside the box.”

3. Groundbreaking /ˈɡraʊndbreɪkɪŋ/ (adjective): Innovative; pioneering.
   Example: “His groundbreaking research revolutionized the field of artificial intelligence.”

4. Cultivate creativity (phrase): To develop and nurture creative abilities.
   Example: “The company aims to cultivate creativity among its employees through various workshops.”

5. Spark new ideas (phrase): To inspire or generate new thoughts or concepts.
   Example: “Traveling often sparks new ideas and broadens one’s perspective.”

Describe a place in your city you like might also require creative description skills, which can be enhanced by using some of these vocabulary items.

Examiner’s Advice

To achieve a high score in IELTS Speaking when describing a person with interesting ideas:

1. Use a wide range of vocabulary related to creativity and innovation.
2. Provide specific examples to illustrate your points.
3. Demonstrate critical thinking by explaining why you find the person’s ideas interesting.
4. Use complex sentence structures and idiomatic expressions naturally.
5. Practice speaking about creative people and ideas to improve fluency.

Remember, the key to success in IELTS Speaking is not just about having good ideas, but also about expressing them clearly and confidently. Regular practice and expanding your vocabulary will help you achieve your desired band score.

IELTS Speaking practice session

Describe an outdoor sport you have never played is another topic that might require creative thinking and description skills, which can be beneficial when discussing people with interesting ideas.

By following these guidelines and incorporating the provided vocabulary and phrases, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle questions about people with interesting ideas in your IELTS Speaking test. Remember to practice regularly and stay curious about creative individuals and innovative concepts to enhance your performance.