In the IELTS Speaking test, examiners look for fluency, coherence, lexical resource, grammatical range, and pronunciation. One of the common topics you might get asked is to describe a person who is very innovative. Here’s a detailed guide on how to tackle this topic effectively to get a high band score.
Introduction
The IELTS Speaking test is a three-part examination where your ability to communicate effectively in English is assessed. When describing a person who is very innovative, you’ll want to demonstrate your language proficiency by incorporating a range of vocabulary, complex sentence structures, and fluent speech.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, you will be asked general questions about yourself and a range of familiar topics. Here are some common questions an examiner might ask you:
- Can you tell me about your hometown?
- What are your hobbies?
- Who is someone you admire for their creativity?
A sample question related to our topic:
“Who is someone you admire for their creativity?”
Sample Answer:
“One person that comes to mind is Elon Musk. He is known for his groundbreaking work in various fields such as space travel, electric vehicles, and renewable energy. His visionary ideas and ability to turn them into reality are truly inspiring.”
Part 2: Long Turn
Cue Card
Describe a person who is very innovative:
- Who this person is
- How you know this person
- What this person does
- And explain why you think this person is very innovative
Sample Answer
“I would like to talk about Elon Musk, who is widely regarded as one of the most innovative individuals of our time. I first came to know about him through various tech news articles and TED Talks. He is the CEO of multiple companies including SpaceX and Tesla. What sets him apart is his relentless pursuit of new technologies and his ability to foresee the future. For instance, his work on reusable rockets has revolutionized space travel, making it more cost-effective and sustainable. Similarly, his contribution to electric cars has pushed the entire automotive industry towards a greener future. I believe his innovative mindset and perseverance make him a standout figure in modern times.”
Examiner Questions
What is the impact of innovative people on society?
- Sample Answer: “Innovative individuals like Elon Musk have a profound impact on society. They not only bring new technologies to life but also inspire others to think outside the box. For example, Musk’s work in renewable energy has influenced many to adopt sustainable practices.”
Do you think innovation is always positive?
- Sample Answer: “While innovation generally drives progress, it can have negative consequences if not managed properly. For instance, technological advances can lead to job losses in some sectors. However, the overall benefits often outweigh the drawbacks, paving the way for a better future.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Examiner Questions and Sample Answers
How can governments support innovative individuals?
- “Governments can provide funding, establish research grants, and foster a conducive environment for innovation. For instance, offering tax incentives to startups can significantly boost their growth.”
Is being innovative a natural talent or can it be learned?
- “While some individuals might have a natural inclination towards innovative thinking, I believe it can certainly be cultivated. Exposure to diverse fields, continuous learning, and a supportive environment can nurture innovation in anyone.”
Can you give an example of an innovative solution to a global problem?
- “One notable example is the development of vertical farming which addresses the issue of food scarcity. This method uses less land and water compared to traditional farming, making it a sustainable option for feeding the growing global population.”
Important Vocabulary and Structures
Vocabulary:
- Visionary – (adj.) /ˈvɪʒ.ən.er.i/: having clear ideas about what should happen or be done in the future.
- Groundbreaking – (adj.) /ˈɡraʊndˌbreɪ.kɪŋ/: new and likely to have an effect on how things are done in the future.
- Sustainable – (adj.) /səˈsteɪ.nə.bəl/: able to be maintained at a certain rate or level without exhausting resources.
Examples:
- “His visionary approach has led to many technological breakthroughs.”
- “The groundbreaking research in AI is transforming multiple industries.”
- “Adopting sustainable practices is crucial for long-term environmental health.”
Elon Musk
Advice for High Scores
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test:
- Practice Regularly: Consistent practice will improve your fluency and coherence.
- Expand Your Vocabulary: Use a wide range of vocabulary related to the topic.
- Work on Pronunciation: Clear and accurate pronunciation makes a significant difference.
- Structure Your Responses: Organize your ideas logically.
- Stay Relaxed and Confident: Confidence will help you speak more naturally.
By focusing on these areas and practicing with examples like those given above, you can significantly improve your performance in the IELTS Speaking test. Good luck!