The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about people who have influenced us or possess unique skills. One common topic is describing someone who is an expert in a particular field. This theme has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to remain relevant in future tests. Let’s explore how to effectively answer questions related to this topic and maximize your speaking score.
Describe a time when you taught something to someone can be a related topic that may help you prepare for discussing expertise and knowledge sharing.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about experts or specialized knowledge. Here’s an example question with a suggested answer:
Q: Do you think it’s important to have experts in different fields?
A: Absolutely. Experts play a crucial role in advancing knowledge and solving complex problems in various domains. Their specialized skills and in-depth understanding are invaluable for innovation and progress in fields like medicine, technology, and environmental science.
Part 2: Long Turn
Cue Card
Describe A Person Who Is An Expert In A Particular Subject
You should say:
- Who this person is
- What subject they are an expert in
- How you know about this person
- And explain why you think they are an expert in this subject
Sample Answer (Band 8-9)
I’d like to talk about Dr. Sarah Chen, a renowned marine biologist who is an expert in coral reef ecosystems. I first learned about her through a captivating documentary on ocean conservation that highlighted her groundbreaking research.
Dr. Chen has dedicated her career to studying the intricate relationships between coral reefs and marine life. Her expertise lies in understanding the delicate balance of these ecosystems and developing innovative strategies for their preservation. What sets her apart is her ability to bridge the gap between scientific research and practical conservation efforts.
I became fascinated by her work after attending one of her thought-provoking lectures at a local university. Her passion for marine life was evident in the way she articulated complex concepts, making them accessible to a general audience. She effortlessly fielded questions from students and professors alike, demonstrating her comprehensive knowledge of the subject.
I consider Dr. Chen an expert because of her substantial contributions to the field. She has published numerous peer-reviewed papers in prestigious scientific journals and has been instrumental in developing new techniques for coral reef restoration. Her work has garnered international recognition, and she’s frequently consulted by governments and environmental organizations for her invaluable insights.
Moreover, Dr. Chen’s ability to communicate her expertise to both scientific and non-scientific audiences is remarkable. She has a gift for translating complex scientific concepts into relatable terms, which has helped raise public awareness about the importance of marine conservation.
In conclusion, Dr. Chen’s extensive knowledge, groundbreaking research, and ability to inspire others make her a true expert in her field. Her work serves as a beacon of hope for the future of our oceans and underscores the importance of specialized knowledge in addressing global challenges.
Sample Answer (Band 6-7)
I want to talk about Dr. John Smith, who is an expert in computer science. I learned about him from my university professor who often mentions his work in our classes.
Dr. Smith specializes in artificial intelligence and machine learning. He has written many important papers on these topics and has developed new algorithms that are used by big tech companies.
I think he’s an expert because he has a lot of experience in his field. He has worked on many projects and has taught at top universities. Many people in the computer science community respect his opinions and ideas.
What I find interesting about Dr. Smith is how he can explain complicated ideas in a way that’s easy to understand. He often gives talks at conferences and has written books for both experts and beginners.
In conclusion, Dr. Smith’s knowledge, research, and ability to teach others make him a true expert in computer science. His work is helping to advance the field of artificial intelligence.
Expert teaching computer science
Follow-up Questions
Q: How do you think someone becomes an expert in their field?
A (Band 8-9): Becoming an expert typically requires a combination of factors. Firstly, one needs a solid foundation of knowledge, often acquired through formal education and continuous learning. Secondly, extensive practical experience is crucial, as it allows individuals to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world situations. Thirdly, dedication and passion for the subject are essential, driving individuals to persistently pursue knowledge and stay updated with the latest developments. Additionally, networking and collaborating with other experts can significantly enhance one’s expertise by providing diverse perspectives and opportunities for growth.
A (Band 6-7): I think becoming an expert takes a lot of time and hard work. People need to study a lot and get a good education in their field. They also need to practice what they’ve learned and gain experience. It’s important to keep learning new things and stay up-to-date with changes in their area. Working with other experts and sharing ideas can also help someone become an expert.
Q: Do you think experts are always right about their subject?
A (Band 8-9): While experts possess extensive knowledge in their fields, it would be unrealistic to assume they are infallible. Even the most renowned experts can make mistakes or have biases that influence their judgments. Science and knowledge are constantly evolving, and new discoveries can challenge or refine existing theories. True experts are often the first to acknowledge the limitations of their knowledge and remain open to new evidence and perspectives. This humility and willingness to learn are, in fact, hallmarks of genuine expertise.
A (Band 6-7): I don’t think experts are always right, even about their own subject. They know a lot, but they can still make mistakes. Sometimes new information comes out that changes what we thought we knew. Good experts are usually willing to admit when they’re wrong and learn from new discoveries. It’s important for them to keep an open mind and be ready to change their ideas if necessary.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Q: How has the role of experts changed in the age of the internet?
A (Band 8-9): The internet has drastically transformed the role of experts in several ways. On one hand, it has democratized information, making expert knowledge more accessible to the general public. This has empowered individuals to educate themselves on various topics and challenge traditional sources of authority. However, it has also led to an information overload, making it challenging for people to discern credible expert opinions from misinformation.
Experts now face the additional responsibility of effectively communicating their knowledge through digital platforms and competing for attention in a crowded information landscape. They must also adapt to the rapid pace of information exchange and be prepared to engage with a global audience. Moreover, the internet has facilitated collaboration among experts worldwide, accelerating the pace of research and innovation.
Despite these changes, the fundamental role of experts in advancing knowledge and providing informed insights remains crucial. The challenge lies in navigating the new digital landscape while maintaining the integrity and rigor of their expertise.
A (Band 6-7): The internet has changed how experts work in many ways. Now, anyone can find information online, which means experts need to share their knowledge in new ways. They often use social media or write blogs to reach more people. The internet also helps experts work together more easily, even if they’re in different countries.
However, there’s also a lot of false information online, so experts have to work harder to make sure people know what’s true. They need to explain things clearly and show why their knowledge is reliable. Overall, experts are still important, but they have to adapt to how people use the internet to learn.
Describe a person who has a deep knowledge of a subject you are interested in can provide additional insights into discussing expertise and knowledge in IELTS Speaking.
Q: Do you think there’s a risk of over-specialization in certain fields?
A (Band 8-9): The question of over-specialization is indeed a complex issue with both advantages and drawbacks. On the positive side, specialization allows for in-depth exploration of specific areas, leading to groundbreaking discoveries and advancements that might not be possible with a more generalist approach. It enables experts to delve into the minutiae of their field, potentially uncovering solutions to intricate problems.
However, there are legitimate concerns about over-specialization. It can lead to a narrowing of perspective, potentially causing experts to overlook important connections or applications outside their immediate focus. This siloed approach might hinder interdisciplinary collaboration, which is often crucial for addressing complex, real-world challenges.
Moreover, in rapidly evolving fields like technology or medicine, extreme specialization might render expertise obsolete more quickly as the landscape changes. There’s also the risk of creating a knowledge gap between specialists and the general public, potentially exacerbating issues of scientific communication and public understanding.
Ideally, a balance should be struck between specialized knowledge and broader understanding. Experts should be encouraged to maintain awareness of developments in related fields and to collaborate across disciplines. This approach can foster innovation while ensuring that specialized knowledge remains relevant and applicable in a broader context.
A (Band 6-7): I think there can be risks with too much specialization. When experts focus only on one small area, they might miss important things happening in other related fields. This could make it hard for them to solve big problems that need knowledge from different areas.
Also, if someone is too specialized, their skills might become outdated quickly, especially in fast-changing fields like technology. It’s probably better for experts to have deep knowledge in one area but also understand how their work connects to other subjects. This way, they can work better with other experts and solve more complex problems.
Experts collaborating on interdisciplinary project
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
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Renowned /rɪˈnaʊnd/ (adjective): Famous and respected.
Example: She is a renowned expert in quantum physics. -
Groundbreaking /ˈɡraʊnd.breɪ.kɪŋ/ (adjective): Innovative; pioneering.
Example: His groundbreaking research revolutionized cancer treatment. -
Articulate /ɑːrˈtɪk.jə.lət/ (verb): Express thoughts or ideas fluently and coherently.
Example: The professor articulated complex theories in a way everyone could understand. -
Instrumental /ˌɪn.strəˈmen.təl/ (adjective): Having an important role in making something happen.
Example: Her expertise was instrumental in developing the new vaccine. -
Comprehensive /ˌkɒm.prɪˈhen.sɪv/ (adjective): Including or dealing with all or nearly all elements or aspects of something.
Example: The book provides a comprehensive overview of modern psychology. -
Invaluable /ɪnˈvæl.ju.ə.bəl/ (adjective): Extremely useful; indispensable.
Example: His experience in the field proved invaluable to the project’s success. -
Expertise /ˌek.spɜːrˈtiːz/ (noun): Expert skill or knowledge in a particular field.
Example: Her expertise in artificial intelligence is widely recognized in the industry. -
Captivating /ˈkæp.tɪ.veɪ.tɪŋ/ (adjective): Capable of attracting and holding interest; charming.
Example: His captivating lectures always drew large audiences.
Using these words and phrases effectively can significantly enhance the quality and sophistication of your responses in the IELTS Speaking test.
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when describing an expert:
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Prepare a range of vocabulary related to expertise, knowledge, and specific fields of study. This will allow you to speak more fluently and precisely.
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Practice structuring your answers logically, using clear examples and explanations to support your points.
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Develop your ideas fully, going beyond surface-level descriptions to discuss the implications and importance of expertise in various contexts.
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Use a variety of grammatical structures, including complex sentences, to demonstrate your language proficiency.
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Work on your pronunciation and intonation to ensure your ideas are clearly communicated.
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Stay informed about current issues related to expertise and specialization in different fields, as this can provide valuable content for your responses.
Remember, the key to success is regular practice and reflection on your performance. Consider recording yourself and analyzing your responses to identify areas for improvement.
Describe a person who has strong opinions can be another interesting topic to explore, as experts often have well-formed views in their fields of study.
