The IELTS Speaking Test is a critical component that assesses a candidate’s ability to communicate effectively in English. The test is divided into three parts: Introduction and Interview, Long Turn, and Two-Way Discussion. The key to scoring highly in this test involves demonstrating fluency, coherence, lexical resource, grammatical range, and pronunciation. One commonly appearing topic in Part 2 of the test is “Describe a person who is a good speaker.”
In this guide, we’ll explore useful tips and strategies for answering questions related to this topic. We’ll provide detailed sample answers and discuss the nuances that make a response stand out to an IELTS examiner.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, the examiner might ask you general questions to help you settle in. Here are some examples:
Common Questions in Part 1
- What do you do?
- Can you describe yourself?
- Do you often give presentations or speak in public?
Sample Answer for Question 3:
Question: Do you often give presentations or speak in public?
Answer:
Yes, I often give presentations at my workplace. I work as a marketing analyst, and part of my job involves presenting data and trends to management and stakeholders. I enjoy public speaking because it gives me the opportunity to convey my ideas effectively and engage with my audience. However, I always make sure to prepare thoroughly to ensure that I can explain complex information clearly and confidently.
Part 2: Long Turn
In Part 2, you’ll be given a cue card with a specific topic. You’ll have one minute to prepare and then you’ll speak for one to two minutes.
Cue Card Example and Sample Answer
Cue Card:
Describe a person who is a good speaker. You should say:
- Who this person is
- How you know him/her
- What topics he/she speaks about
- And explain why this person is a good speaker
Sample Answer:
One person who is an exceptional speaker is my former university professor, Dr. Sarah Thompson. I had the privilege of attending her lectures during my undergraduate studies in Communications. Dr. Thompson is not only knowledgeable but also incredibly charismatic.
Drawing from a wide range of examples, she speaks about diverse topics including media ethics, public relations, and the dynamics of digital communication. What sets her apart as a good speaker is her ability to engage her audience. She uses interactive methods, such as asking thought-provoking questions and encouraging students to participate in discussions. Additionally, her elocution is impeccable, which makes her lectures not only informative but also enjoyable to listen to. Her speeches are always well-structured, which helps in maintaining clarity and coherence. Overall, her ability to connect with her audience and deliver content in an engaging manner makes her a remarkable speaker.
Follow-up Questions (Bullet Points) and Sample Answers:
-
Why is public speaking important in today’s world?
- Answer: Public speaking is extremely important in today’s world because it allows individuals to articulate their ideas clearly, persuade others, and lead effectively. In today’s interconnected global environment, effective communication can lead to better business outcomes, stronger relationships, and greater societal impact.
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What qualities make a good speaker?
- Answer: A good speaker must possess several qualities such as confidence, clarity, and empathy. They should be well-prepared and able to engage their audience through storytelling, eye contact, and appropriate body language. Additionally, a good speaker should listen actively and respond to their audience’s needs and feedback.
Part 3: Two-Way Discussion
In Part 3, the examiner will ask more complex questions related to the topic discussed in Part 2. This assesses your ability to discuss abstract ideas and issues.
Sample Questions and Answers
Question: How can schools promote public speaking skills among students?
Answer: Schools can promote public speaking skills by incorporating various interactive activities into the curriculum, such as debates, presentations, and group discussions. They can also provide specialized training sessions and workshops that focus on techniques for effective communication. Additionally, schools should create a supportive environment where students feel encouraged to practice and refine their speaking skills without the fear of judgment.
Question: Do you think non-verbal communication is as important as verbal communication in public speaking?
Answer: Yes, I strongly believe that non-verbal communication is just as important as verbal communication. Body language, facial expressions, and gestures play a crucial role in conveying the speaker’s emotions and enthusiasm. For instance, maintaining eye contact can establish a connection with the audience and enhance engagement. On the other hand, gestures can help in emphasizing points and making the content more memorable.
Useful Vocabulary and Phrases
Key Vocabulary
- Articulate (adj.) /ˈɑːtɪkjʊlɪt/: able to express ideas clearly and effectively.
- She is very articulate and always makes compelling arguments.
- Elocution (n.) /ˌɛləˈkjuːʃən/: the skill of clear and expressive speech.
- His elocution is impeccable, making every lecture a joy to attend.
- Engage (v.) /ɪnˈɡeɪdʒ/: to attract and hold the attention of the audience.
- He uses humor to engage the audience.
Phrases and Idiomatic Expressions
- Draw from a wide range of examples: Utilize various examples to illustrate a point.
- She draws from a wide range of examples to make her lectures interesting.
- Interactive methods: Techniques that involve active participation.
- Interactive methods like group discussions can enhance learning.
- Impeccable clarity and coherence: Perfectly clear and logical structure.
- Her speeches are known for their impeccable clarity and coherence.
Tips for Achieving a High Score in Speaking
- Practice Regularly: Consistent practice helps improve fluency and confidence.
- Expand Vocabulary: Use a diverse range of vocabulary to showcase lexical resource.
- Use Connectors: Link your ideas clearly with connectors and cohesive devices.
- Engage with Content: Show enthusiasm and genuine interest in the topic to keep the listener engaged.
- Seek Feedback: Obtain feedback from teachers or native speakers to identify and correct mistakes.
By employing these strategies and practicing the sample answers provided, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle the IELTS Speaking Test with confidence and aim for a high band score.
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