The IELTS Speaking test is composed of three parts, each designed to assess different aspects of your speaking abilities. Examiners evaluate your fluency, coherence, lexical resource, grammatical range and accuracy, and pronunciation. Among the numerous topics that can arise in the IELTS Speaking test, describing a knowledgeable person is quite common. This comprehensive guide will help you master this task, offering model answers and detailed analyses.
Part 1: Common Questions and Example Answer
Common Questions
Part 1 of the speaking test is the introduction and interview segment, where the examiner asks you questions about yourself. Example questions:
- What is your favorite subject?
- Do you prefer studying alone or with others?
- What kind of books do you like to read?
- How important is it to have knowledgeable people in a society?
Example Answer
Question: How important is it to have knowledgeable people in a society?
Answer: Knowledgeable people play a crucial role in any society as they contribute to innovation, progress, and the overall well-being of the community. They bring expertise in various fields such as medicine, engineering, and education, which is essential for addressing complex problems and ensuring sustainable development.
Part 2: Long Turn
Cue Card
You will be asked to describe a person who is very knowledgeable in a specific area. The cue card usually includes prompts to help you structure your talk.
Cue Card Format
Describe a person who is very knowledgeable in a specific area. You should say:
- Who this person is
- How you know this person
- What specific knowledge they have
- And explain why you think this person is very knowledgeable
Model Answer
Who this person is: The person I would like to describe is Dr. Sarah Thompson, a renowned biologist.
How you know this person: I came to know Dr. Thompson during my undergraduate studies, as she was one of the leading researchers at our university.
What specific knowledge they have: Dr. Thompson has extensive knowledge in the field of genetics. She has conducted pioneering research on gene therapy and has published numerous papers in high-impact journals.
Explain why you think this person is very knowledgeable: I believe Dr. Thompson is incredibly knowledgeable because she has a profound understanding of her subject, combined with the ability to convey complex ideas in an understandable manner. Her research has led to significant advancements in medical treatments, impacting countless lives positively. Her dedication and passion for science inspire her students and colleagues alike.
Bullet Points for Follow-up Questions
- Why is it important to be knowledgeable in a specific area?
- Being knowledgeable in a specific area allows individuals to solve problems effectively, innovate, and contribute to societal progress. It also earns them respect and recognition in their field.
- How can a person become highly knowledgeable?
- Gaining deep knowledge in a field requires dedication, continuous learning, and practical experience. Engaging in research, attending workshops, and collaborating with other experts are also essential.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Examiner’s Questions
The questions in this part are more abstract and require you to express and justify your opinions.
Examiner: How does having knowledgeable people benefit a community?
Candidate: Knowledgeable individuals bring specialized skills that are vital for economic growth, innovation, and problem-solving. They contribute to education, healthcare, and infrastructure, improving the quality of life for the entire community. They often act as role models, inspiring future generations to pursue education and contribute to society.
Examiner: Do you think the way people acquire knowledge has changed over the years?
Candidate: Definitely. The advent of the internet and digital resources has revolutionized the way we acquire knowledge. People now have access to a vast amount of information at their fingertips. Online courses, webinars, and interactive platforms offer new ways for individuals to learn and grow. This shift has made knowledge more accessible and democratized the learning process.
Essential Vocabulary and Structures for High Scores
Vocabulary
- Renowned (adj.): /rɪˈnaʊnd/ – well-known, famous, and respected.
- “Dr. Sarah Thompson is a renowned biologist with expertise in genetics.”
- Pioneering (adj.): /ˌpaɪəˈnɪərɪŋ/ – involving new ideas or methods.
- “Her pioneering research has led to significant advancements in medical treatments.”
- Profound (adj.): /prəˈfaʊnd/ – having deep insight or understanding.
- “She has a profound understanding of gene therapy.”
Structures
- Relative Clauses:
- “Dr. Sarah Thompson, who is one of the leading researchers at our university, has influenced many students.”
- Complex Sentences:
- “Because of her ingrained passion for genetics, she has made incredible advances in the field.”
- Passive Voice:
- “Numerous papers have been published by Dr. Sarah Thompson on the subject of gene therapy.”
Final Advice for Achieving a High Band Score
- Practice Regularly: Consistent practice helps improve fluency and coherence.
- Expand Your Vocabulary: Use a diverse range of vocabulary and idiomatic expressions.
- Work on Pronunciation: Clear and accurate pronunciation contributes significantly to your overall score.
- Stay Calm and Confident: Confidence enhances performance and fluency during the test.
By following these guidelines and continuously improving your skills, you can achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test. Good luck!