The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about people who have influenced us or possess special qualities. One common topic is describing someone with deep knowledge in a subject you’re interested in. This article will provide you with valuable insights and examples to help you excel in this speaking task.
Describe a person who is very curious about the world around them can be a great way to approach this topic. Curiosity often leads to deep knowledge, making it a relevant starting point for our discussion.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about your interests and the people who have influenced you. Here’s a sample question with a suggested answer:
Examiner: “Do you have any subjects or topics that you’re particularly interested in?”
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“Absolutely. I’ve always been fascinated by astronomy. The vastness of the universe and the mysteries it holds never cease to amaze me. I find myself constantly reading up on the latest discoveries and theories about space exploration and cosmology. It’s a field that combines science, philosophy, and imagination in a way that I find incredibly compelling.”
Part 2: Long Turn
Cue Card:
Describe a person who has a deep knowledge of a subject you are interested in.
You should say:
- Who this person is
- What subject they are knowledgeable about
- How you know this person
- And explain why you find their knowledge impressive
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to talk about my university professor, Dr. Sarah Thompson, who has an extraordinary depth of knowledge in astrophysics, a subject that has captivated my interest for years.
Dr. Thompson is a leading expert in the field of black hole research and has been teaching at my university for over two decades. I first encountered her during my second year when I took her advanced course on celestial mechanics.
What sets Dr. Thompson apart is not just her vast knowledge, but her ability to explain complex concepts in a way that’s both accessible and inspiring. She has this remarkable talent for breaking down intricate theories into digestible pieces, using analogies that resonate with everyday experiences.
Her knowledge is truly impressive for several reasons. Firstly, she’s at the forefront of cutting-edge research, often collaborating with NASA and other space agencies on groundbreaking projects. Secondly, her understanding isn’t confined to astrophysics alone; she seamlessly integrates insights from mathematics, quantum mechanics, and even philosophy to provide a holistic view of the universe.
What I find most inspiring is her insatiable curiosity. Despite her extensive knowledge, she’s always eager to learn more and encourages her students to question established theories. This approach has profoundly influenced my own attitude towards learning and scientific inquiry.
In conclusion, Dr. Thompson’s deep knowledge, coupled with her passion for sharing it, has not only enhanced my understanding of astrophysics but has also ignited a lifelong passion for exploring the mysteries of the cosmos.”
Bullet Point Questions:
Examiner: “How has this person’s knowledge influenced your own interests?”
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“Dr. Thompson’s expertise has profoundly shaped my academic journey. Her passionate lectures and cutting-edge insights have not only deepened my understanding of astrophysics but have also inspired me to pursue graduate studies in this field. She’s opened my eyes to the interconnectedness of various scientific disciplines, encouraging me to adopt a more interdisciplinary approach in my research. Moreover, her emphasis on critical thinking has transformed the way I approach scientific problems, making me a more analytical and inquisitive student.”
Examiner: “Do you think having deep knowledge in a specific subject is important in today’s world?”
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“Absolutely. In today’s rapidly evolving world, deep knowledge in a specific subject is increasingly crucial. It allows individuals to contribute meaningfully to their fields, driving innovation and progress. Specialists with in-depth knowledge are often at the forefront of breakthroughs that can have far-reaching impacts on society. However, I believe it’s equally important to maintain a broader perspective and understand how one’s specialized knowledge fits into the bigger picture. This balance between depth and breadth is what truly empowers individuals to tackle complex, real-world challenges effectively.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Examiner: “How do you think the way people acquire knowledge has changed in recent years?”
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“The acquisition of knowledge has undergone a significant transformation in recent years, primarily due to technological advancements. The internet has democratized access to information, allowing people to learn about virtually any topic at their fingertips. Online courses, webinars, and educational platforms have made it possible for individuals to gain expertise in specific subjects without traditional classroom settings.
Moreover, the rise of social media and content-sharing platforms has created opportunities for peer-to-peer learning and the rapid dissemination of new ideas. However, this abundance of information also presents challenges, such as the need to critically evaluate sources and filter out misinformation.
Another notable change is the shift towards more interdisciplinary approaches to knowledge acquisition. There’s a growing recognition that complex problems often require insights from multiple fields, encouraging people to broaden their learning beyond a single discipline.
Lastly, there’s an increasing emphasis on experiential and applied learning. People are no longer satisfied with just theoretical knowledge; they seek opportunities to put their learning into practice, whether through internships, projects, or real-world problem-solving exercises. This hands-on approach often leads to a deeper, more nuanced understanding of a subject.”
Examiner: “What are some potential drawbacks of having very specialized knowledge?”
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“While specialized knowledge is undoubtedly valuable, it can come with certain drawbacks. Firstly, there’s the risk of developing tunnel vision. Experts in a narrow field might become so focused on their area of expertise that they fail to see the bigger picture or make connections with other disciplines. This can limit innovation and problem-solving capabilities, especially when dealing with complex, multifaceted issues.
Another potential drawback is the rapid pace of change in many fields. Highly specialized knowledge can become outdated quickly, particularly in fast-evolving areas like technology or medicine. This necessitates continuous learning and adaptation, which can be challenging and time-consuming.
There’s also the issue of reduced flexibility in the job market. While specialists are often in high demand in their specific fields, they might find it difficult to transition to other areas if circumstances change or if they wish to explore new career paths.
Furthermore, over-specialization can sometimes lead to communication barriers. Experts might struggle to explain their knowledge to non-specialists, which can hinder collaboration and the practical application of their expertise in broader contexts.
Lastly, there’s a philosophical consideration about the nature of knowledge itself. Some argue that true wisdom comes from a broad understanding of many subjects rather than deep knowledge of just one. This perspective suggests that over-specialization might limit one’s overall intellectual growth and worldview.
However, it’s important to note that these drawbacks don’t negate the value of specialized knowledge. The key lies in striking a balance between depth and breadth of knowledge, and in developing the skills to apply specialized expertise in diverse contexts.”
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
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Captivated /ˈkæptɪveɪtɪd/ (adjective): Attracted and held (someone’s interest or attention) by being extremely interesting, attractive, or impressive.
Example: “I was captivated by her in-depth knowledge of quantum physics.” -
Cutting-edge /ˈkʌtɪŋ edʒ/ (adjective): The most advanced stage of development; innovative or pioneering.
Example: “His research is at the cutting-edge of medical science.” -
Interdisciplinary /ˌɪntərˈdɪsəpləneri/ (adjective): Involving two or more academic disciplines.
Example: “The project requires an interdisciplinary approach, combining insights from psychology and neuroscience.” -
Profoundly /prəˈfaʊndli/ (adverb): Very greatly or extremely; to a great depth or degree.
Example: “Her lectures profoundly influenced my understanding of the subject.” -
Resonates /ˈrezəneɪts/ (verb): Evoke or suggest images, memories, and emotions.
Example: “His explanation of complex theories resonates with students by using relatable analogies.”
Describe a hobby you started during the pandemic could be an interesting way to discuss how you’ve acquired new knowledge or skills recently, showing your ability to learn and adapt.
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test when describing a knowledgeable person:
- Use a variety of advanced vocabulary and complex sentence structures.
- Provide specific examples and personal anecdotes to support your points.
- Demonstrate critical thinking by discussing both the benefits and potential drawbacks of specialized knowledge.
- Show your ability to discuss abstract concepts by relating the topic to broader themes like education, technology, or societal progress.
- Maintain fluency by practicing your responses, but avoid sounding rehearsed.
- Engage with the examiner’s questions thoughtfully, demonstrating your ability to think on your feet.
Remember, the key to success is not just in memorizing answers, but in developing the ability to communicate your thoughts clearly and effectively on a wide range of topics.
Describe a place where you would like to travel can be a great way to showcase your language skills and imagination, much like describing a knowledgeable person allows you to demonstrate your ability to articulate complex ideas.