The IELTS Speaking test often includes topics related to personal experiences and influential people in our lives. One common theme is describing someone who has taught us a valuable life skill. This topic allows candidates to showcase their English proficiency while reflecting on meaningful relationships and personal growth. Let’s explore how to tackle this subject effectively in your IELTS Speaking exam.
Understanding the Topic
Before we dive into the sample answers, it’s crucial to understand what the examiner is looking for when they ask you to Describe A Person Who Has Taught You An Important Life Skill. They want to assess your ability to:
- Describe a person and their characteristics
- Explain a life skill and its importance
- Narrate how the skill was taught
- Reflect on the impact of learning this skill
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 come up in Parts 1 and 3.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, the examiner might ask some general questions related to skills and learning. Here are a few possible questions and sample answers:
Q: Do you enjoy learning new skills?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I do. I find it exciting to learn new things. It helps me grow as a person and keeps my mind active.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely! I’m quite enthusiastic about acquiring new skills. Not only does it broaden my horizons, but it also keeps me intellectually stimulated. I believe that continuous learning is essential for personal and professional growth in today’s rapidly changing world.
Q: What’s a skill you’d like to learn in the future?
Band 6-7 Answer:
I’d really like to learn how to play the guitar. I think it would be fun to play music and sing along.
Band 8-9 Answer:
In the near future, I’m keen on mastering the art of public speaking. I believe this skill would be invaluable in both my personal and professional life, as it would enhance my ability to communicate effectively and boost my confidence in various social and business settings.
Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)
Here’s a sample cue card for this topic:
Describe a person who has taught you an important life skill.
You should say:
- Who this person is
- What skill they taught you
- How they taught you
- And explain why this skill is important to you
Sample Answer (Band 8-9)
Who this person is and what skill they taught you:
The person I’d like to talk about is my grandfather, a retired chef who instilled in me the invaluable life skill of cooking. He’s always been a pivotal figure in my life, known for his culinary expertise and warm personality.
How they taught you:
My grandfather’s approach to teaching me how to cook was both practical and inspiring. He would invite me to his kitchen every weekend, creating a hands-on learning environment. We’d start by discussing the nutritional value of different ingredients and how to select the freshest produce. Then, he’d demonstrate various techniques, from knife skills to the art of seasoning. What truly set his teaching apart was his emphasis on creativity. He’d often challenge me to improvise with ingredients, teaching me that cooking is as much about intuition as it is about following recipes.
Why this skill is important to you:
This skill has profoundly impacted my life in numerous ways. Firstly, it has made me self-sufficient, allowing me to prepare healthy meals and reduce my reliance on processed foods. Moreover, cooking has become a creative outlet for me, a way to express myself and connect with my cultural heritage. It’s also a social skill that enables me to bring people together, as sharing a home-cooked meal is a universal way of showing care and affection. Perhaps most importantly, this skill serves as a constant reminder of my grandfather’s love and wisdom, keeping our bond strong even now that he’s no longer with us.
Grandfather teaching cooking skills
Follow-up Questions
- How has learning this skill changed your daily life?
- Do you think it’s important for everyone to learn basic cooking skills? Why or why not?
Band 8-9 Answer for Question 1:
Learning to cook has revolutionized my daily routine. It’s not just about preparing meals; it’s about making informed choices about nutrition and taking control of my health. I now plan my meals more effectively, which has led to better time management and financial savings. Moreover, cooking has become a form of stress relief and a way to express creativity after a long day. It’s also enhanced my social life, as I often invite friends over for dinner, fostering deeper connections through shared meals.
Band 8-9 Answer for Question 2:
I firmly believe that basic cooking skills are essential for everyone in today’s world. Firstly, it promotes healthier eating habits by giving people control over their ingredients and preparation methods. This is particularly crucial given the rising rates of obesity and diet-related health issues. Secondly, cooking skills contribute to financial well-being, as home-cooked meals are generally more cost-effective than eating out or relying on pre-prepared foods. Additionally, cooking is a fundamental life skill that fosters independence and can be a source of personal satisfaction. It also has cultural significance, allowing people to connect with their heritage and share it with others. In essence, cooking skills empower individuals to take charge of their nutrition, finances, and personal growth.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In Part 3, the examiner might ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:
Q: How do you think the way skills are taught has changed over the generations?
Band 8-9 Answer:
The methodology of teaching skills has undergone a significant transformation over generations. In the past, skill acquisition was often based on apprenticeship models, where learners would observe and imitate experts over extended periods. This hands-on approach was common in trades and crafts.
Today, we see a more diverse and technology-driven approach to skill teaching. Online platforms and digital resources have democratized access to information, allowing people to learn at their own pace and from experts worldwide. There’s also a greater emphasis on interactive and experiential learning, with simulations and virtual reality playing increasingly important roles.
Moreover, the focus has shifted from mere skill acquisition to developing adaptability and problem-solving abilities. This change reflects the rapidly evolving job market, where specific skills may become obsolete quickly. Therefore, modern skill teaching often incorporates elements of critical thinking and creativity, preparing learners to apply their knowledge in various contexts.
However, it’s worth noting that traditional methods haven’t been entirely replaced. Many fields still value mentorship and hands-on experience, but these are often complemented by modern techniques. This blended approach aims to provide a more comprehensive and adaptable skill set for learners.
Q: Do you think schools should focus more on teaching life skills? Why or why not?
Band 8-9 Answer:
I strongly believe that schools should indeed place a greater emphasis on teaching life skills. While academic knowledge is undoubtedly important, practical life skills are equally crucial for students’ overall development and future success.
Firstly, life skills such as financial literacy, time management, and effective communication are essential for navigating adulthood. These skills directly impact an individual’s ability to manage personal finances, maintain healthy relationships, and succeed in the workplace. By incorporating these into the curriculum, schools can better prepare students for the challenges they’ll face outside the classroom.
Secondly, teaching life skills can enhance students’ emotional intelligence and resilience. Skills like stress management, conflict resolution, and decision-making are vital for mental health and can help students cope with the pressures of modern life. This is particularly relevant given the increasing awareness of mental health issues among young people.
Moreover, focusing on life skills can bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world application. It helps students understand the relevance of their education to their daily lives and future careers, potentially increasing engagement and motivation in their studies.
However, it’s important to strike a balance. Life skills should complement rather than replace traditional academic subjects. The challenge lies in integrating these skills into existing curricula without overburdening students or sacrificing academic rigor.
In conclusion, while it may require some curriculum restructuring, a greater focus on life skills in schools would ultimately benefit students, equipping them with a well-rounded skill set that prepares them not just for exams, but for life itself.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
To achieve a high band score in your IELTS Speaking test, it’s crucial to use a range of sophisticated vocabulary and complex sentence structures. Here are some key words and phrases that can help elevate your responses:
-
Instill /ɪnˈstɪl/ (verb): To gradually but firmly establish an idea or attitude in a person’s mind.
Example: “My grandfather instilled in me a love for cooking.” -
Pivotal /ˈpɪvətl/ (adjective): Of crucial importance in relation to the development or success of something else.
Example: “She played a pivotal role in shaping my career choices.” -
Profoundly /prəˈfaʊndli/ (adverb): Very greatly or extremely.
Example: “Learning this skill has profoundly impacted my daily life.” -
Revolutionize /ˌrevəˈluːʃənaɪz/ (verb): To change something radically or fundamentally.
Example: “Technology has revolutionized the way we acquire new skills.” -
Foster /ˈfɒstə(r)/ (verb): To encourage the development of something, especially something desirable.
Example: “This experience fostered a sense of independence in me.” -
Invaluable /ɪnˈvæljuəbl/ (adjective): Extremely useful; indispensable.
Example: “The life lessons he taught me have been invaluable throughout my career.”
Examiner’s Advice
To excel in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when describing a person who has taught you an important life skill:
- Be specific: Provide detailed examples and anecdotes to illustrate your points.
- Use a range of tenses: Demonstrate your ability to use past, present, and future tenses accurately.
- Show reflection: Explain not just what happened, but how it affected you and why it’s important.
- Maintain fluency: Practice speaking on this topic to improve your ability to talk without long pauses.
- Expand your vocabulary: Learn and use topic-specific vocabulary related to skills, learning, and personal development.
Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is not just what you say, but how you say it. Practice regularly, record yourself, and listen back to identify areas for improvement.
For more tips on handling different types of IELTS Speaking questions, you might find these resources helpful:
- Describing a time when you had to handle criticism
- Describing a time when you learned from failure
- Describing a person who has motivated you to improve yourself
By following these guidelines and practicing regularly, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle this topic and similar ones in your IELTS Speaking test.
