The IELTS Speaking test consists of three parts: Introduction and Interview (Part 1), Long Turn (Part 2), and Two-way Discussion (Part 3). To excel in this test, candidates need to showcase their ability to engage in natural and fluent conversation, provide detailed responses, and use a variety of vocabulary and grammatical structures accurately. One common topic that might appear is “Describe a person who has a unique talent.”
In this article, we will explore how to answer such a question effectively, providing a sample response, analysis, and useful vocabulary to help you achieve a high band score.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
Common Questions and Example Response
- Question 1: Can you tell me about a person who inspires you?
- Question 2: What kind of qualities makes a person talented in your opinion?
- Question 3: Is there anyone you know who has a unique talent?
Example Response
Question: Is there anyone you know who has a unique talent?
Answer: Yes, I know a person who has an incredibly unique talent. Her name is Maria, and she’s an exceptional musician. She can play multiple instruments, including the piano, violin, and guitar, with incredible skill. Maria’s ability to create beautiful music and her versatility in playing different instruments truly sets her apart.
Part 2: Long Turn
Cue Card
Describe a person who has a unique talent. You should say:
- Who this person is
- What talent or skill they have
- How they developed this talent
- And explain why you think this talent is unique
Example Answer
One person who comes to mind when I think of unique talents is my friend John. John is not only a mathematician but also a remarkable artist. He has a unique ability to blend arts and sciences seamlessly. Ever since high school, John exhibited an exceptional proficiency in both subjects. He would astound his teachers with his mathematical problem-solving skills and at the same time, he created beautiful artworks that were displayed in school galleries.
His talent developed through years of dedicated practice and curiosity. John spent countless hours perfecting his craft, experimenting with different techniques, and learning about both art and mathematics in depth. He often says that the beauty he finds in mathematical patterns translates into his artistic creations.
What makes John’s talent truly unique is his ability to draw connections between disciplines that most people see as unrelated. This has not only set him apart as a student but also as a professional. His works have been exhibited in prestigious art galleries and his innovative approach has been recognized in various academic journals. These achievements clearly illustrate how distinctive and exceptional his talent is.
Follow-up Questions
- How do you think this unique talent has impacted John’s life?
- What are the advantages and disadvantages of having such a talent?
- Do you believe everyone has some sort of unique talent?
Follow-up Answers
Question: How do you think this unique talent has impacted John’s life?
Answer: John’s unique talent has played a significant role in his life, opening up numerous doors for him both academically and professionally. He has been awarded scholarships for his contributions to both fields and has had the opportunity to work on interdisciplinary projects that few others could handle. However, balancing his time between two vastly different disciplines also comes with its challenges and pressures.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Examiner Questions and Example Responses
Examiner: Why do you think people are fascinated by unique talents?
Candidate: I believe people are captivated by unique talents because they represent a combination of dedication, natural ability, and creativity. They inspire others to explore their own potential and push the boundaries of what they thought possible. Unique talents also bring a sense of awe and admiration, as they often involve seeing the world from a different perspective.
Examiner: In your opinion, what role does the environment play in nurturing a talent?
Candidate: The environment plays a crucial role in nurturing a talent. Supportive surroundings, access to resources, and encouragement from family and friends can significantly impact how a talent develops. For instance, someone with a musical gift might need instruments, lessons, and an audience to truly flourish. Conversely, a lack of support or resources can stifle even the most promising talents.
Key Vocabulary and Structures for High Scores
Important Vocabulary
- Proficiency: /prəˈfɪʃ(ə)nsi/ – a high degree of competence or skill.
- Interdisciplinary: /ˌɪntərˈdɪsəplɪn(ə)ri/ – relating to more than one branch of knowledge.
- Dedicated: /ˈdɛdɪkeɪtɪd/ – committed to a task or purpose.
- Astound: /əˈstaʊnd/ – shock or greatly surprise.
Example Sentences:
- Proficiency: John’s proficiency in both mathematics and art is quite impressive.
- Interdisciplinary: The project was interdisciplinary, involving both science and the arts.
- Dedicated: She is dedicated to honing her talent and spends hours practicing every day.
- Astound: His performance in the competition astounded both the judges and the audience.
Examiner’s Tips for High Scores
- Practice Consistently: Regularly practice speaking on a variety of topics to build fluency and confidence.
- Expand Vocabulary: Use a wide range of vocabulary to articulate your thoughts clearly and accurately.
- Structure Your Answers: Organize your responses logically, with a clear beginning, middle, and end.
- Use Natural Intonation: Pay attention to your intonation and stress patterns to sound more natural and engaging.
- Seek Feedback: Practice with a partner or teacher who can provide constructive feedback on your performance.
By focusing on these strategies and carefully crafting your responses, you can significantly improve your performance in the IELTS Speaking test.
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