In the IELTS Speaking test, candidates are evaluated on several criteria such as fluency and coherence, lexical resource, grammatical range and accuracy, and pronunciation. One common topic that often comes up in the test is describing a person who is good at handling stress. This is a crucial skill indicative of emotional resilience and effective problem-solving abilities, making it a relevant topic in Part 2 and Part 3 of the Speaking test.
Let’s delve into the example questions and suggested answers that can help you achieve a high band score.
II. Content
1. Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, the examiner will ask questions about your personal life, interests, and habits. Here are some common questions you might encounter:
- Can you describe a typical day at your job/school?
- What do you do to relax when you are stressed?
- How do you balance your work and personal life?
Sample Answer for “What do you do to relax when you are stressed?”:
“I usually engage in deep breathing exercises and meditation when I am stressed. These practices help calm my mind and restore my focus. Additionally, I find that talking to a close friend about my worries often provides a sense of relief.”
2. Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)
Based on the keyword “Describe a person who is good at handling stress,” here’s a sample cue card:
Cue Card
Describe a person who is good at handling stress.
You should say:
- Who this person is
- How you know him/her
- What stress management techniques he/she uses
- And explain why you think he/she is good at handling stress
Sample Answer:
“One person who is extremely good at handling stress is my friend John. John and I have known each other since college, where we both faced a lot of academic pressure. He uses a variety of stress management techniques, such as maintaining a strict exercise regimen, practicing mindfulness, and adhering to a well-balanced diet. Additionally, John is an advocate of time management and always ensures that he plans his tasks in advance to avoid last-minute rushes. What I find most impressive is his ability to stay calm and composed even in the most challenging situations, making him a role model for effective stress management.”
calm-person-meditation|Calm Person Meditating|A person sitting cross-legged with their eyes closed, meditating peacefully in a serene environment with soft lighting. Surround them with lush greenery and a calming aura.
Bullet Points for Sub-questions:
- What advice would you give to someone who struggles with stress?
- Do you think organizations should provide stress management training to their employees?
- Can stress be entirely eliminated, or should one focus on managing it?
Sub-question Answer Suggestions:
“What advice would you give to someone who struggles with stress?”
“I would suggest identifying the sources of stress and addressing them methodically. Techniques such as deep breathing, regular physical activity, and maintaining a balanced diet can be highly effective. Furthermore, it is crucial to maintain a support system, whether through friends, family, or professional counselors.”
3. Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In Part 3, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic in Part 2 to evaluate your ability to discuss and analyze ideas comprehensively.
Examiner’s Question:
“How do you think stress management techniques have evolved over time?”
Sample Answer:
“Stress management techniques have significantly evolved over the years. In the past, people relied heavily on traditional methods such as rest and talking to close friends. However, with advancements in science and psychology, there are now more effective and scientifically-backed techniques available. Practices like mindfulness and yoga have gained prominence, and workplaces are increasingly incorporating mental health programs. The use of technology, such as stress management apps and online counseling, has also made stress relief more accessible.”
III. Important Vocabulary and Structures
To help you achieve a higher band score, here are some crucial vocabulary and phrases used in the sample answers:
- Engage in – [verb] involve oneself in.
*Example: “I usually engage in deep breathing exercises.” - Restore focus – [verb phrase] bring back attention to something.
*Example: “These practices help restore my focus.” - Stress management techniques – [noun phrase] methods used to handle stress.
*Example: “He uses a variety of stress management techniques.” - Mindfulness – [noun] the quality of being present and fully engaged with what you’re doing.
*Example: “Practicing mindfulness helps in stress reduction.” - Support system – [noun phrase] a network of people who provide assistance.
*Example: “It is crucial to maintain a support system.”
IV. Tips for Practicing Speaking
- Practice Regularly: Engage in speaking practice regularly to improve your fluency and coherence.
- Record Yourself: Record your responses to cue cards and listen back critically to identify areas for improvement.
- Seek Feedback: Partner with a friend or a teacher to get constructive feedback.
- Expand Vocabulary: Continuously add to your lexical resource by reading extensively and noting down useful phrases.
By consistently practicing and integrating these strategies, you’ll be well-prepared to excel in your IELTS Speaking test.