In the IELTS Speaking Test, examiners assess various components of your spoken English, such as fluency and coherence, lexical resource, grammatical range and accuracy, and pronunciation. One commonly asked topic is to describe a person who is very creative in solving problems. Understanding how to answer such a question comprehensively and impressively is crucial. This guide will provide detailed answers and analysis to help you achieve a high band score.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
The examiner typically starts with general questions to make you comfortable. Here are some common questions and sample answers:
Sample Question 1:
Examiner: Can you tell me about a friend or a family member who is good at fixing things?
Candidate: Sure. My uncle is exceptionally skilled at fixing things. Whenever something breaks down, whether it’s a car, an electronic device, or even household appliances, he always finds a way to repair it. His ability to think outside the box and come up with innovative solutions never ceases to amaze me.
Analysis: Notice the use of words like “exceptionally skilled” and “think outside the box”, which adds richness to the vocabulary and demonstrates the ability to describe qualities effectively.
Sample Question 2:
Examiner: How do you generally solve problems in your daily life?
Candidate: I usually approach problems methodically. First, I identify the root cause of the issue. Then, I brainstorm several potential solutions and evaluate their pros and cons. Finally, I implement the most feasible solution and monitor the results.
Analysis: The structured approach and coherent explanation showcase your organizational skills and ability to articulate your thought process clearly.
Part 2: Long Turn
In this section, you will be given a cue card with a task. Here’s an example related to our topic:
Cue Card:
Describe a person who is very creative in solving problems.
You should say:
- Who the person is
- How you know this person
- What kinds of problems they solve
- And explain why this person is very creative
Sample Answer:
One person who stands out as being incredibly creative in solving problems is my colleague, Jane. I met Jane at my previous workplace, where we worked together on several challenging projects.
Jane has an uncanny ability to tackle complex issues with innovative solutions. For instance, during a major client project, we faced a significant software bug that threatened to delay our timeline. While the rest of the team was considering conventional debugging methods, Jane proposed an entirely different approach. She suggested using a machine learning algorithm to predict and identify the root cause of the bugs, which was unprecedented in our company.
Her approach not only saved us time but also enhanced the system’s efficiency. What makes Jane particularly creative is her knack for integrating technology with practical solutions and her relentless pursuit of knowledge. She constantly reads up on the latest tech trends and experiments with new tools.
In essence, Jane’s ability to combine technical expertise with creative problem-solving techniques makes her a standout individual in our organization.
Analysis: This answer uses specific examples to illustrate Jane’s creativity, demonstrating the candidate’s ability to provide detailed and relevant content. Words and phrases like “uncanny ability”, “integrating technology with practical solutions”, and “relentless pursuit of knowledge” add depth and academic rigor to the response.
woman-working-on-laptop-solving-problem|problem-solving|A woman deeply focused, working on her laptop, trying to solve a complex problem. Her desk is filled with notes, diagrams, and coffee mugs, indicating long hours of work.
Follow-up Questions:
- Examiner: Do you think creativity is more important than technical knowledge in problem-solving?
- Candidate: I believe both creativity and technical knowledge are essential. Creativity allows individuals to think outside traditional boundaries and come up with innovative solutions, while technical expertise provides the necessary foundation to implement these solutions effectively.
Analysis: This follow-up encourages the candidate to express their opinion and justify it with reasons, showcasing critical thinking and evaluative skills.
Part 3: Two-Way Discussion
Sample Discussion Questions:
Examiner: Why do you think some people are more creative than others when it comes to solving problems?
Candidate: Creativity often stems from exposure to diverse experiences and environments. Individuals who engage in varied activities, travel, or work in dynamic settings are likely to develop a broader perspective, which can lead to more creative problem-solving. Additionally, innate curiosity and a willingness to take risks also contribute significantly to creativity.
Analysis: The answer demonstrates analytical skills and an understanding of the factors influencing creativity, using terms like “diverse experiences”, “broader perspective”, and “innate curiosity”.
Examiner: Can creativity in problem-solving be taught, or is it an innate skill?
Candidate: While certain aspects of creativity can be enhanced through training and practice, such as brainstorming techniques and lateral thinking exercises, it’s largely an innate trait. However, a conducive environment that encourages experimentation and rewards innovative thinking can significantly foster and nurture creativity.
Analysis: This response balances the view of creativity as both a teachable and innate skill. The use of specialized vocabulary like “lateral thinking” and “conducive environment” reflects a higher command of language.
Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
Key Vocabulary
- Innovative /ˈɪnəvətɪv/ (adj.) – involving new ideas or methods.
- Example: Jane’s innovative approach helped solve a major issue swiftly.
- Uncanny /ʌnˈkæni/ (adj.) – strange or mysterious, especially in an unsettling way.
- Example: His uncanny ability to find solutions amazed everyone.
- Feasible /ˈfiːzəbl/ (adj.) – possible and practical to do easily or conveniently.
- Example: We needed a feasible solution to the problem.
- Perspective /pərsˈpɛktɪv/ (n.) – a particular attitude towards or way of regarding something; a point of view.
- Example: Her perspective on the issue provided new insight.
Advice for Practice
To excel in the Speaking Test:
- Practice regularly: Use sample questions and record your answers to review later.
- Expand your vocabulary: Learn new words and phrases related to various topics.
- Engage in discussions: Join English-speaking clubs or groups to improve fluency.
- Seek feedback: Have a teacher or proficient speaker critique your performance.
By following these tips and using the detailed examples provided, you can significantly improve your IELTS Speaking skills and aim for a higher band score.