As an IELTS Speaking examiner, I’ve noticed that questions about describing experts or influential people in specific fields frequently appear in the test. This topic allows candidates to showcase their vocabulary, fluency, and ability to articulate complex ideas. Let’s explore how to excel in this task, focusing on the prompt “describe a person who is an expert in a specific field.”
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about experts or professionals. Here’s a sample question with a suggested answer:
Question: Do you know any experts in your field of study or work?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“Yes, I do. In my field of computer science, there’s a professor at my university who’s quite well-known for his work in artificial intelligence. He’s published many papers and is often invited to speak at conferences.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“Absolutely. In the realm of computer science, I’m particularly impressed by Dr. Jane Smith, a pioneering researcher in artificial intelligence at our university. Her groundbreaking work on neural networks has not only revolutionized the field but has also garnered international acclaim. She’s a frequent keynote speaker at prestigious tech conferences and has numerous publications in top-tier journals.”
Part 2: Long Turn
Here’s a sample cue card for this topic:
Describe a person who is an expert in a specific field
You should say:
- Who this person is
- What field they are an expert in
- How you know about this person
- And explain why you think they are an expert
Band 6-7 Sample Answer:
“I’d like to talk about Dr. Robert Chen, who is an expert in environmental science. I first learned about him when I attended a guest lecture at my university last year. Dr. Chen is well-known for his research on climate change and its effects on marine ecosystems.
He has been working in this field for over 20 years and has published many important papers. What makes him an expert, in my opinion, is his deep knowledge of the subject and his ability to explain complex ideas in a way that’s easy to understand.
During his lecture, he used clear examples and interesting visuals to show how rising sea temperatures are affecting coral reefs. He also talked about some solutions he’s working on, which I found really inspiring.
I think Dr. Chen is an expert because he not only understands the theory but also does practical research. He often goes on field trips to collect data and observe changes firsthand. His work has influenced environmental policies in several countries, which shows how respected he is in his field.”
Band 8-9 Sample Answer:
“I’d be delighted to describe Dr. Emily Zhang, an eminent expert in the field of neuroscience. I first encountered her work while delving into research for my thesis on cognitive enhancement techniques.
Dr. Zhang has carved out a niche for herself in the cutting-edge area of neuroplasticity, focusing on how the brain adapts and rewires itself in response to new experiences. Her pioneering research has revolutionized our understanding of brain recovery after trauma.
What sets Dr. Zhang apart as an expert is not just her extensive knowledge base, but her innovative approach to research. She’s renowned for integrating insights from diverse disciplines such as psychology, computer science, and even philosophy to inform her work. This interdisciplinary approach has led to several groundbreaking discoveries, including a novel technique for accelerating learning in stroke patients.
Her expertise is evident in her impressive track record of publications in high-impact journals like Nature and Science. Moreover, she’s a sought-after speaker at international conferences and has been awarded numerous prestigious grants, including the Brain Research Through Advancing Innovative Neurotechnologies (BRAIN) Initiative grant.
What truly cements Dr. Zhang’s status as an expert, in my view, is her ability to bridge the gap between complex scientific concepts and practical applications. She frequently collaborates with clinicians to translate her research findings into tangible therapies, demonstrating a rare combination of theoretical brilliance and practical impact.
In essence, Dr. Zhang embodies what it means to be an expert – profound knowledge, innovative thinking, and the ability to effect real-world change through her work.”
Follow-up questions:
- How did this person’s expertise influence your own interests or career choices?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“Dr. Zhang’s work really inspired me to consider a career in neuroscience. Her research showed me how exciting and important this field is. It made me want to learn more about how the brain works and how we can use this knowledge to help people.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“Dr. Zhang’s expertise has been profoundly influential in shaping my academic and career trajectory. Her groundbreaking work in neuroplasticity sparked my fascination with the brain’s adaptive capabilities. This interest has propelled me to pursue advanced studies in cognitive neuroscience, with a particular focus on learning and memory. Moreover, her interdisciplinary approach has inspired me to broaden my skill set, leading me to supplement my neuroscience studies with courses in data science and machine learning, which I believe will be crucial in advancing our understanding of the brain.”
- Do you think it’s important for experts to share their knowledge with the public? Why or why not?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“Yes, I think it’s very important. When experts share their knowledge, it helps everyone understand important issues better. This can lead to more support for research and better decisions in areas like health and the environment.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“I firmly believe that it’s imperative for experts to disseminate their knowledge to the public. This knowledge transfer serves multiple crucial functions. Firstly, it fosters scientific literacy, enabling the general public to make informed decisions on complex issues that affect their lives, such as climate change or public health policies. Secondly, it demystifies the scientific process, potentially inspiring the next generation of researchers and innovators. Moreover, public engagement can build trust in scientific institutions and combat misinformation, which is particularly vital in our current era of ‘fake news’. Lastly, by articulating their work to a lay audience, experts often gain new perspectives on their research, potentially catalyzing novel insights or collaborations.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In this section, the examiner might ask more abstract questions related to experts and their role in society. Here are some sample questions and answers:
- What qualities do you think make someone an expert in their field?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“I think to be an expert, someone needs to have a lot of knowledge about their subject. They should also have experience working in their field. Good experts are usually good at solving problems and explaining things to others. They should also keep learning and stay up-to-date with new developments in their area.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“In my opinion, true expertise is characterized by a multifaceted combination of qualities. Firstly, an expert must possess in-depth, nuanced knowledge of their field, including its historical context and current frontiers. This knowledge should be coupled with extensive practical experience, allowing them to apply theoretical concepts to real-world scenarios.
Moreover, experts typically exhibit exceptional analytical skills and critical thinking abilities, enabling them to dissect complex problems and synthesize novel solutions. They often demonstrate intellectual curiosity and a commitment to lifelong learning, constantly updating their knowledge base as their field evolves.
Another crucial quality is the ability to effectively communicate complex ideas to both peers and laypersons. This skill in knowledge dissemination is vital for advancing their field and fostering public understanding.
Additionally, true experts often possess interdisciplinary knowledge, allowing them to draw connections across different domains and generate innovative insights. Finally, I believe intellectual humility is a hallmark of genuine expertise – the ability to acknowledge the limits of one’s knowledge and remain open to new ideas and perspectives.”
- How has the role of experts in society changed with the rise of the internet and social media?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“The internet and social media have changed how experts share information. Now, they can reach more people more easily. But it’s also made it harder to know who’s really an expert because anyone can share information online. This means people need to be careful about what information they trust.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“The advent of the internet and social media has profoundly altered the role of experts in society, presenting both opportunities and challenges. On one hand, these platforms have democratized information, allowing experts to disseminate their knowledge to a global audience with unprecedented ease and speed. This has the potential to elevate public discourse and enhance scientific literacy on a massive scale.
However, this democratization has also blurred the lines between genuine expertise and mere opinion. The cacophony of voices on social media can sometimes drown out or distort expert opinions, leading to the spread of misinformation. This phenomenon has given rise to what some call the ‘post-truth era‘, where emotional appeals and personal beliefs can sometimes trump factual evidence.
Moreover, the echo chamber effect of social media algorithms can reinforce existing beliefs rather than exposing users to expert opinions that might challenge their views. This has made the task of consensus-building on important issues more challenging.
On a more positive note, social media has also facilitated direct engagement between experts and the public, allowing for real-time clarifications and discussions. This can humanize experts and make science more accessible.
In response to these changes, many experts have had to adapt their communication strategies, learning to navigate the nuances of various platforms and compete for attention in a crowded digital landscape. Some have become adept at using multimedia tools to make their work more engaging and accessible.
Ultimately, while the internet and social media have complicated the role of experts, they have also provided new avenues for impactful public engagement. The challenge lies in leveraging these tools effectively while maintaining the integrity and rigor of expert knowledge.”
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
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Pioneering (adjective) /ˌpaɪəˈnɪərɪŋ/: Introducing new ideas or methods.
Example: “Her pioneering research in quantum computing has opened up new possibilities in data encryption.” -
Groundbreaking (adjective) /ˈɡraʊndˌbreɪkɪŋ/: Innovative; introducing new ideas.
Example: “The scientist’s groundbreaking discovery challenged existing theories about dark matter.” -
To carve out a niche (idiom): To create a special position for oneself within a field.
Example: “Despite the competitive nature of the field, she managed to carve out a niche for herself in sustainable energy research.” -
Cutting-edge (adjective) /ˌkʌtɪŋ ˈedʒ/: At the forefront of progress; very advanced.
Example: “The laboratory is equipped with cutting-edge technology for genetic research.” -
To bridge the gap (phrase): To connect two different things or groups.
Example: “His work aims to bridge the gap between theoretical physics and practical applications in technology.” -
Interdisciplinary (adjective) /ˌɪntərˈdɪsəpləneri/: Involving two or more academic disciplines.
Example: “The project required an interdisciplinary approach, combining insights from biology, chemistry, and computer science.” -
To disseminate (verb) /dɪˈsemɪneɪt/: To spread information widely.
Example: “The conference provided an opportunity for researchers to disseminate their findings to a global audience.” -
To foster (verb) /ˈfɒstər/: To encourage the development of something.
Example: “The mentorship program aims to foster innovation among young scientists.”
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test when describing an expert:
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Use a range of vocabulary: Incorporate advanced words and phrases related to expertise and professionalism. Practice using these in context.
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Develop your ideas: Don’t just list facts about the expert. Explain why their work is important and how it impacts the field or society.
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Speak fluently: Practice speaking about experts in your field without long pauses. Use linking words to connect your ideas smoothly.
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Show critical thinking: When explaining why someone is an expert, provide thoughtful analysis rather than just stating facts.
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Be specific: Use concrete examples and details to support your points. This demonstrates depth of knowledge and enhances your credibility.
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Practice with various experts: Don’t prepare just one example. Be ready to talk about different types of experts across various fields.
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Stay relevant: Always keep your answers relevant to the question asked. It’s easy to go off-topic when discussing complex subjects.
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Use appropriate pronunciation and intonation: Practice pronouncing technical terms correctly and use intonation to emphasize key points.
Remember, describing an expert effectively in the IELTS Speaking test is not just about showcasing your English skills, but also about demonstrating your ability to articulate complex ideas clearly and coherently. Regular practice with these strategies will help you learn something new and improve your performance significantly.