The IELTS Speaking section is a critical component of the exam, aimed at assessing a candidate’s ability to communicate effectively in English. This part of the exam evaluates fluency and coherence, lexical resource, grammatical range and accuracy, and pronunciation. A common topic that students often face is “Describe a person who is a good listener.” In this article, we will explore effective strategies to tackle this question, including example answers and detailed analysis. Understanding what the examiner is looking for and practicing structured responses can help you achieve higher bands.
Part 1: Common Questions in Introduction and Interview
During the first part of the IELTS Speaking test, the examiner will ask you general questions about yourself and a range of familiar topics, such as your hometown, work, or studies. Here are some examples:
- Do you prefer listening to music or watching TV?
- Who do you usually talk to when you have a problem?
- Describe a person you know who is a good listener.
Example Answer:
Examiner: Who do you usually talk to when you have a problem?
Candidate: I usually talk to my best friend, Sarah, when I have a problem. She is incredibly understanding and offers sound advice. She has this amazing ability to really listen and make me feel heard, which is why I always turn to her when I’m in need.
Part 2: Long Turn
Cue Card
The second part of the test involves a cue card that provides a specific topic to talk about for 1-2 minutes. You will have one minute to prepare your answer, and the examiner will ask you to speak for one to two minutes continuously.
Cue Card Example:
Describe a person who is a good listener. You should say:
- Who this person is
- How you know them
- What they do when they listen to you
- Why you think they are a good listener
Example Answer:
One person I know who is an exceptional listener is my colleague, David. I met David at my workplace where we collaborate on various projects. When David listens, he makes consistent eye contact, nods to show understanding, and never interrupts. He also asks deep and insightful questions that show he is processing what I’m saying. One instance that stands out was when I was going through a tough time personally; David listened patiently, provided support, and offered practical advice without being judgmental. His empathetic and attentive nature makes him a truly remarkable listener.
active-listener|active listener|A photo of a person who is actively listening to someone. He is making eye contact, his body is turned toward the speaker, and he has a compassionate expression on his face.
Follow-up Questions
Examiner: How do you feel when people listen to you attentively?
Candidate: When people listen to me attentively, I feel valued and respected. It fosters a sense of connection and trust, allowing for deeper and more meaningful conversations. It also boosts my confidence, knowing someone genuinely cares about my thoughts and feelings.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In the third part, the examiner will ask questions related to the topic discussed in Part 2. These questions are usually more abstract, prompting you to evaluate and provide opinions.
Examples and Suggested Answers:
Examiner: Why do you think good listening skills are important in communication?
Candidate: Good listening skills are crucial because they ensure clear and effective communication. When people actively listen, they can understand the speaker’s perspective better, which reduces misunderstandings and conflicts. It also builds stronger relationships, as listening shows empathy and respect for the other person’s viewpoints.
Examiner: How can people improve their listening skills?
Candidate: People can improve their listening skills by being more mindful and present during conversations, avoiding distractions like mobile phones. Practicing active listening techniques, such as paraphrasing and asking questions for clarification, can also enhance listening abilities.
Vocabulary and Phrases
Here are some keywords and phrases that can help you score higher:
-
Empathetic (adj.): /ˌempəˈθetɪk/ – Showing an ability to understand and share the feelings of another.
- Example: David is an empathetic listener; he always understands my emotions.
-
Insightful (adj.): /ˈɪnˌsaɪtfəl/ – Having or showing a deep understanding of something.
- Example: His insightful questions make me realize he is genuinely interested.
-
Active listening (noun phrase): – The process of fully concentrating, understanding, responding, and then remembering what is being said.
- Example: Active listening involves nodding and making eye contact.
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Sound advice (noun phrase): – Practical and sensible guidance.
- Example: Sarah always gives me sound advice that I can rely on.
Tips to Improve IELTS Speaking Score
- Practice regularly: Consistent practice helps improve fluency and confidence.
- Record yourself: Listening to your recordings can help identify areas for improvement.
- Expand your vocabulary: Using a wider range of vocabulary words can help you express yourself more clearly.
- Think in English: Try to think and formulate thoughts in English to improve speed and fluency.
- Engage in conversations in English: Real-life practice is invaluable.
By refining these skills and following the guidelines provided, you’ll be well-prepared to achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test.