The IELTS Speaking test often includes topics that allow candidates to showcase their personal experiences and communication skills. One such topic that frequently appears is “Describe a person who has helped you develop a new skill.” This article will guide you through answering this question effectively, providing sample responses and valuable tips to help you achieve a high band score.
Understanding the Topic and Its Relevance
The topic “Describe a person who has helped you develop a new skill” is a common one in IELTS Speaking tests. It allows examiners to assess your ability to:
- Describe a person and their qualities
- Explain a learning process
- Express gratitude and appreciation
- Use appropriate vocabulary and grammar structures
This topic is likely to appear in Part 2 of the Speaking test, where you’ll be given a cue card and asked to speak for 1-2 minutes. However, related questions may also arise in Parts 1 and 3.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, you may be asked general questions related to learning and skills. Here are some possible questions and sample answers:
Q: Do you enjoy learning new skills?
A: Absolutely! I find learning new skills incredibly rewarding. It’s not just about acquiring knowledge, but also about challenging myself and expanding my horizons. Whether it’s picking up a new language or mastering a musical instrument, the process of learning keeps me motivated and engaged.
Q: How do you usually learn new things?
A: I have a multi-faceted approach to learning. Firstly, I often seek guidance from experts or experienced individuals in the field. Additionally, I utilize online resources such as tutorial videos and educational websites. I also believe in hands-on practice, as I find that actively engaging with the subject matter helps me grasp concepts more effectively.
Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)
Here’s a sample cue card for this topic:
Describe a person who has helped you develop a new skill
You should say:
- Who this person is
- What skill they helped you develop
- How they taught you
- And explain why this skill is important to you
Sample Answer:
“I’d like to talk about my aunt, Sarah, who played a pivotal role in helping me develop my cooking skills. Sarah is a professional chef with over 20 years of experience in the culinary industry.
The skill she helped me develop was the art of Mediterranean cooking. I’ve always been fascinated by the flavors and health benefits of Mediterranean cuisine, but I never knew where to start. Sarah took me under her wing and patiently guided me through the intricacies of this culinary style.
Her teaching method was incredibly effective. She started by introducing me to the key ingredients and spices used in Mediterranean cooking. Then, we would spend weekends together in her kitchen, where she would demonstrate various techniques and allow me to practice under her supervision. What I appreciated most was how she encouraged experimentation and creativity, teaching me to trust my instincts and adjust recipes to my taste.
mediterranean-cooking-class|Mediterranean Cooking Class|A photo of a woman in an apron teaching a young person how to cook Mediterranean food in a kitchen. They are smiling and surrounded by fresh ingredients.
This skill is important to me for several reasons. Firstly, it has significantly improved my overall diet and health. Mediterranean cuisine is known for its nutritional benefits, and being able to cook these dishes at home has positively impacted my well-being. Secondly, it has become a wonderful way for me to connect with friends and family. Hosting Mediterranean-themed dinner parties has become a favorite pastime of mine. Lastly, this skill has ignited a passion for exploring different cuisines, broadening my cultural understanding through food.
Learning from Sarah was not just about acquiring cooking skills; it was a journey of discovery that has enriched my life in numerous ways.”
Examiner’s Follow-up Questions:
- How has learning this skill changed your daily life?
- Do you think it’s important for everyone to know how to cook?
- What other skills would you like to learn in the future?
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In Part 3, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some possible questions and sample answers:
Q: How do you think technology has changed the way people learn new skills?
A: Technology has revolutionized skill acquisition in numerous ways. Firstly, it has democratized access to information, allowing people to learn from experts worldwide through online courses and tutorials. This has broken down geographical barriers that previously limited learning opportunities. Additionally, technology has made learning more interactive and engaging through simulations, virtual reality, and gamification. These innovations cater to different learning styles and make the process more enjoyable.
However, it’s worth noting that technology also presents challenges. The abundance of information can be overwhelming, and learners need to develop critical thinking skills to discern credible sources. Moreover, the ease of access might lead to a lack of commitment in some cases, as people can easily jump from one skill to another without mastering any.
Despite these challenges, I believe the benefits of technology in skill development far outweigh the drawbacks. It has opened up possibilities that were unimaginable just a few decades ago, empowering individuals to take control of their learning journey.
Q: Do you think the traditional teacher-student relationship is still important in the digital age?
A: Absolutely. While digital resources have transformed education, the role of a teacher remains crucial. The teacher-student relationship provides several elements that are difficult to replicate in a purely digital environment.
Firstly, teachers offer personalized guidance and feedback, which is essential for effective learning. They can identify individual strengths and weaknesses, adapting their teaching methods accordingly. This level of personalization is challenging to achieve through digital means alone.
Secondly, teachers serve as mentors and role models, inspiring and motivating students beyond just imparting knowledge. This human connection can be a powerful driving force in a student’s educational journey.
Moreover, the classroom environment, whether physical or virtual, fosters collaborative learning and peer interaction, which are vital for developing social skills and diverse perspectives.
That being said, I believe the future lies in blending traditional teaching methods with digital tools. This approach combines the benefits of personal interaction with the vast resources and flexibility offered by technology, creating a more robust and comprehensive learning experience.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
To achieve a high band score, use sophisticated vocabulary and phrases. Here are some examples:
Pivotal role [ˈpɪvətl roʊl] (noun phrase): A crucial or central position.
Example: My mentor played a pivotal role in shaping my career.Intricacies [ɪnˈtrɪkəsiz] (noun): Complex details or features.
Example: He explained the intricacies of the software with great patience.Under one’s wing (idiom): To protect and take care of someone.
Example: The experienced teacher took the new trainee under her wing.Ignite a passion (phrase): To spark strong interest or enthusiasm.
Example: That first painting class ignited my passion for art.Democratize [dɪˈmɑːkrətaɪz] (verb): To make something accessible to everyone.
Example: The internet has democratized access to information.Cater to [ˈkeɪtər tuː] (phrasal verb): To provide what is wanted or needed by someone.
Example: The new curriculum caters to different learning styles.
Tips from an IELTS Examiner
As an experienced IELTS examiner, here are my top tips for excelling in the Speaking test:
Practice regularly: Consistent practice is key to improving your speaking skills. Try to speak English daily, even if it’s just talking to yourself.
Expand your vocabulary: Learn new words and phrases related to common IELTS topics. Use them in context to make them stick.
Work on your pronunciation: Clear pronunciation is crucial for a high score. Focus on stress, intonation, and individual sounds.
Develop your ideas: Don’t just give short answers. Expand on your points and provide examples to showcase your language skills.
Stay calm and confident: Remember, the examiner is there to assess your English, not to trick you. Stay relaxed and speak naturally.
By following these guidelines and using the sample answers provided, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle the topic “Describe a person who has helped you develop a new skill” and other similar questions in your IELTS Speaking test. Remember, practice makes perfect, so keep honing your skills and you’ll be on your way to achieving your desired band score.
For more IELTS speaking practice, you might want to check out our articles on describing a time when you had to adjust to a new environment or describing a person who is very good at making others feel comfortable. These topics will help you further develop your speaking skills and prepare for a variety of potential IELTS questions.