The IELTS Speaking test evaluates candidates on key aspects such as fluency, pronunciation, grammatical range and accuracy, and lexical resource. One common topic that appears in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly in Part 2, is describing a person who is very dedicated to their family. This topic helps the examiner assess the candidate’s ability to articulate personal experiences and observations about others.
By mastering this topic, candidates can effectively demonstrate their fluency, coherence, and ability to use a wide range of vocabulary and grammatical structures. Let’s dive deeper into the structure and suggested answers for this common theme in the IELTS Speaking test.
II. Main Content
1. Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, the examiner will ask general questions to make the candidate comfortable and to gauge their basic speaking ability.
Sample Question:
- Can you describe a person who has had a significant impact on your life?
Suggested Answer:
“Yes, certainly. One person who has profoundly influenced my life is my mother. She has always been a paragon of dedication and commitment, particularly towards our family. Her love and unwavering support have shaped me into who I am today.”
2. Part 2: Long Turn
In Part 2, the candidate will be given a cue card with a specific topic and will have one minute to prepare a monologue that lasts between 1 to 2 minutes. Here’s a typical cue card for describing a person who is very dedicated to their family:
Cue Card:
Describe a person who is very dedicated to their family. You should say:
- Who this person is
- How you know this person
- What they do to show dedication
- And explain how you feel about this person
Sample Answer:
“Today, I would like to talk about a person who epitomizes dedication to their family – my uncle, Mr. John Smith. He is my mother’s elder brother, and we have always been very close.
From as far back as I can remember, my uncle has been the cornerstone of our extended family. He is a physician by profession and, despite his demanding job, he always makes time for his family. Every evening, he ensures to have dinner with his family, discussing the day’s events and planning for the future. On weekends, he organizes and participates in various family activities such as picnics, game nights, and even vacations.
One of the most significant ways he demonstrates his dedication is through his support for his children’s education. He spends countless hours helping them with their homework and encouraging them to pursue their passions.
I admire my uncle immensely. His actions have instilled in me the values of family commitment and responsibility. His dedication is not only inspirational but also a reminder of the importance of prioritizing family in our busy lives.”
Follow-up Questions:
- Why do you think it is important to be dedicated to one’s family?
Suggested Answer: “Family is the foundation of a person’s values and support system. Being dedicated to one’s family ensures emotional and sometimes financial stability. It reinforces bonds and instills strong moral values that are essential in life’s journey.”
3. Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In Part 3, the examiner will engage in a more abstract discussion related to the topic introduced in Part 2. The aim is to evaluate the candidate’s ability to express opinions and provide justifications.
Sample Questions and Answers:
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Do you think people are less dedicated to their families than in the past?
Suggested Answer: “While some may argue that people today are less dedicated due to the fast-paced lifestyle and numerous distractions, I believe that dedication now manifests in different forms. Modern technology, for example, allows family members to stay connected no matter the distance, which shows a different kind of dedication.” -
How can parents instill a sense of family commitment in their children?
Suggested Answer: “Parents can instill a sense of family commitment through leading by example. Demonstrating selfless acts of support, regularly spending quality time together, and upholding family traditions can profoundly influence children’s attitudes towards family dedication.”
III. Useful Vocabulary and Structures
To achieve a higher band score, it’s crucial to use a range of vocabulary and complex grammatical structures. Here are some terms and phrases that might help:
Vocabulary:
- Paragon /ˈpærəɡɒn/ (noun): A model of excellence
- Unwavering /ʌnˈweɪvərɪŋ/ (adjective): Steadfast and firm
- Cornerstone /ˈkɔːrnərstəʊn/ (noun): An important quality or feature
- Instilled /ɪnˈstɪld/ (verb): Gradually but firmly establish
Example Sentences:
- “My uncle is a paragon of dedication, always setting an example for the entire family.”
- “Her unwavering support has been the bedrock of our family’s success and happiness.”
- “He is the cornerstone of our family, holding us together during tough times.”
IV. Examiner’s Tips and Advice
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Practice fluidity: Focus on speaking smoothly and at a natural pace. Avoid long pauses and fillers like “um” or “uh”.
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Expand your vocabulary: Use a variety of words and expressions to rephrase and elaborate on your points.
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Prepare structure: Having a clear structure in your mind helps in organizing your thoughts. Use linking words and phrases to connect your ideas coherently.
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Engage with the examiner: Make eye contact and respond to the examiner’s body language to create a conversational tone.
Consistently practicing these strategies will not only enhance your chances of achieving a high band score but also boost your confidence during the IELTS Speaking test.
By understanding these insights and consistently practicing, candidates can effectively prepare for the IELTS Speaking test and aim for a high score. Best of luck!