Speaking about individuals involved in social work requires both descriptive skills and understanding of humanitarian activities. This topic frequently appears in IELTS Speaking tests, particularly in Part 2 cue cards, making it essential for test-takers to prepare thoroughly.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview Questions
Common questions you may encounter:
- Do you participate in any social work?
- What kinds of social activities are popular in your country?
- Should young people be encouraged to do social work?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I occasionally volunteer at a local food bank, helping to distribute essential supplies to underprivileged families. It’s incredibly rewarding to see how our efforts can make a tangible difference in people’s lives.”
Young volunteers sorting food donations at local food bank
Part 2: Cue Card
Topic
Describe a person who is very active in social work
You should say:
- Who this person is
- What kind of social work they do
- How you know about them
- And explain why you think their work is important
Similar to describe a person who is a good role model for others, this topic requires careful consideration of personal qualities and achievements.
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to talk about Sarah Chen, a remarkable individual who has dedicated her life to helping homeless youth in our city. I first learned about her through describe a social event you attended recently at a community fundraiser.
Sarah established a non-profit organization called ‘Youth Haven’ that provides shelter, education, and job training to homeless teenagers. She works tirelessly to secure funding and resources, often spending weekends organizing outreach programs and mentoring sessions.
What makes her work particularly impactful is her holistic approach to addressing homelessness. She doesn’t just offer temporary solutions but focuses on long-term rehabilitation and skill development. Through describe a time when you participated in a community activity, I witnessed firsthand how her programs transform lives.
Her work is invaluable because it addresses one of society’s most pressing issues while giving young people a second chance at life. The ripple effect of her efforts extends beyond individual beneficiaries to positively impact entire communities.”
Social worker assisting homeless teenagers at youth center
Part 3: Discussion Questions
Q: What motivates people to engage in social work?
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“People are often driven by a combination of factors, including altruistic impulses and a desire to create positive change. Some individuals have personally experienced hardship and want to prevent others from facing similar challenges, while others are motivated by their ethical principles or religious beliefs. The satisfaction of making a tangible difference in someone’s life can be incredibly fulfilling and self-reinforcing.”
Q: How has social work changed with technology?
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“Technology has revolutionized the way social work is conducted. Digital platforms enable broader reach and more efficient resource allocation, while social media facilitates awareness-raising and fundraising efforts. However, it’s crucial to maintain the human element in social work, as describe a book that left a lasting impact on you often reminds us about the importance of personal connection in helping others.”
Key Vocabulary and Expressions
- Philanthropist /fɪˈlænθrəpɪst/ (n): Someone who helps others through charitable activities
- Grassroots initiative /ˈɡræsruːts ɪˈnɪʃətɪv/ (n): Community-level organization or movement
- Humanitarian /hjuːˌmænɪˈteəriən/ (adj): Concerned with improving people’s lives and reducing suffering
- Empowerment /ɪmˈpaʊəmənt/ (n): The process of becoming stronger and more confident
- Social justice /ˈsəʊʃəl ˈdʒʌstɪs/ (n): Fair and just relations between individual and society
Practice these expressions in context to enhance your speaking fluency and demonstrate sophisticated vocabulary usage during your IELTS test.
