In the IELTS Speaking test, examiners will assess various aspects of your spoken English, including fluency, coherence, lexical resource, grammatical range and accuracy, and pronunciation. One common topic that may appear is describing a person who is very knowledgeable about a particular topic. This kind of question not only tests your ability to speak about someone else but also gauges your descriptive abilities and the way you organize your thoughts.
To effectively tackle this part of the test, you need to be prepared with potential questions, rich vocabulary, and structured responses. Let’s explore this topic in detail.
II. Main Content
1. Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, you will have a conversation with the examiner, who will ask you general questions about yourself, your life, and your interests. Here’s an example question and a suggested response:
Question: “Do you know anyone who is an expert in a particular field?”
Suggested Response:
“Yes, I do. My uncle is an expert in environmental sciences. He has been working in this field for more than twenty years and has conducted numerous studies on climate change. He’s also published several articles and papers in reputable journals. I often seek his advice when I have questions related to environmental issues.”
2. Part 2: Long Turn
For Part 2, you will be given a cue card with a specific topic to talk about for 1-2 minutes. Here is a cue card example related to our topic along with a model answer and potential follow-up questions.
Cue Card:
Describe a person who is very knowledgeable about a particular topic. You should say:
- Who the person is
- What topic they are knowledgeable about
- How you know they are knowledgeable
- And explain how this person’s knowledge has influenced you.
Model Answer:
“The person I’d like to talk about is Dr. Jane Smith, a renowned astrophysicist who specializes in black holes. She is a professor at a prestigious university and has made groundbreaking discoveries in her field. I first learned about Dr. Smith through a series of documentaries on space science that aired on national television. Her keen insight and in-depth explanations of complex topics fascinated me.
Her extensive knowledge stems from years of dedicated research, numerous publications, and presentations at international conferences. Her work is often cited by other experts in the field, which, to me, is a clear indication of her expertise.
Dr. Smith’s knowledge has had a profound impact on my interests. Due to her influence, I developed a passion for astronomy and even pursued related courses during my undergraduate studies. She has shown me the importance of perseverance and curiosity in scientific inquiry.”
Follow-up Questions:
- Why do you think it is important to have experts in various fields?
- What can be the drawbacks of being highly knowledgeable about a very specific topic?
Suggested Responses:
“Why do you think it is important to have experts in various fields?”
“It’s crucial to have experts in different fields because they drive progress and innovation. For instance, scientists like Dr. Smith push the boundaries of our understanding of the universe, while experts in medicine work tirelessly to find cures for diseases. Such depth of knowledge in specific areas contributes to the overall advancement of society.”
“What can be the drawbacks of being highly knowledgeable about a very specific topic?”
“One potential drawback is that these individuals might have a narrower perspective, potentially missing out on interdisciplinary approaches that could enhance their work. Additionally, their intense focus on a specific subject might limit their social interactions and broader world views.”
3. Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In Part 3, the examiner will ask questions related to the topic in Part 2 but require more abstract thinking and depth.
Examiner Question: “How has the role of experts changed over the years?”
Suggested Response:
“The role of experts has evolved significantly due to advancements in technology and the accessibility of information. Today, experts not only conduct research but also engage in public education through various platforms like social media and online courses. This shift has democratized knowledge, allowing wider access to specialized information. However, it also means that experts are now responsible for combating misinformation and ensuring that the public receives accurate and reliable data.”
4. Essential Vocabulary and Phrases to Enhance Your Answer
- Renowned (/rɪˈnaʊnd/): well-known, famous and respected. Example: She is a renowned scholar in the field of linguistics.
- Groundbreaking (/ˈɡraʊndˌbreɪ.kɪŋ/): innovative, pioneering. Example: The professor’s groundbreaking research in nanotechnology has received worldwide acclaim.
- Keen Insight (/kiːn ˈɪn.saɪt/): sharp, perceptive understanding. Example: His keen insight into human behavior is evidenced by his bestselling psychology books.
- In-depth (/ˈɪn-depθ/): thorough, comprehensive. Example: Her in-depth analysis of the topic impressed the panel of experts.
- Profound (/prəˈfaʊnd/): deep, intense. Example: His teachings have had a profound impact on my career choices.
III. Examiner’s Tips for High Scores
- Practice Regularly: Consistent practice helps improve fluency and confidence.
- Expand Vocabulary: Use wide-ranging and advanced vocabulary to convey ideas more vividly.
- Structure Responses: Organize your thoughts logically with a clear beginning, middle, and end.
- Use Natural Intonation: Speak naturally with appropriate intonation to express meaning and emotion.
- Seek Feedback: Regularly seek constructive feedback from teachers or peers to identify areas for improvement.
Related Articles for Further Reading:
- Describe a person who is very knowledgeable about technology
- Describe a person who is very knowledgeable about culture
By following this guide and consistently practicing, you’ll be better equipped to handle the “describe a person who is very knowledgeable about a particular topic” question in your IELTS Speaking test. Good luck!