The IELTS Speaking test evaluates a candidate’s ability to communicate effectively in English. Examiners look at four key criteria: Fluency and Coherence, Lexical Resource, Grammatical Range and Accuracy, and Pronunciation. Common topics in the cue card section often revolve around personal experiences, descriptions of people, objects, or events. One such popular topic is “Describe a person who is very patient and understanding.”
In this detailed guide, we’ll break down how to answer such questions thoughtfully and confidently to achieve a high score.
II. Main Content
1. Common IELTS Speaking Part 1 Questions
Part 1 of the Speaking test involves a conversation between the candidate and the examiner. Here’s a common question:
Q: Do you often meet with your friends?
Sample Answer:
“Yes, I try to meet my friends at least once a week. We usually gather on weekends to catch up over a cup of coffee or sometimes engage in activities like hiking or playing sports. Meeting with them is a great way to relax and unwind from the stresses of daily life.”
2. Part 2: Long Turn
Cue Card Example:
Describe a person who is very patient and understanding. You should say:
- Who this person is
- How you know this person
- What this person does
- And explain why you think this person is very patient and understanding
Sample Answer:
“I would like to talk about my grandmother, who is one of the most patient and understanding people I have ever met. Her name is Mary, and she has been a significant influence in my life since I was a child.
I know her because she is my grandmother, and we have always been close. From helping me with schoolwork to giving me life advice, she has always been there for me. She is a retired school teacher, and I believe her profession has instilled in her a great deal of patience and empathy.
One particular instance that showcases her patience was when I was struggling with algebra in high school. Despite her own busy schedule, she spent hours explaining the concepts to me patiently and never got frustrated, no matter how many times I asked the same question.
grandmother-grandchild-love|Grandmother and Grandchild Love|A heartwarming photo of a grandmother hugging her grandchild, both with genuine smiles of love and affection.
What truly sets her apart is her ability to listen without interrupting. She makes people feel valued and understood, which is why everyone in the family turns to her for advice. Her calm demeanor and wisdom have taught me the importance of being patient and understanding in every situation.
To conclude, I believe her remarkable patience and understanding stem not just from her career as an educator but also from her nature. She remains an inspiring figure in my life.”
Possible Follow-up Questions:
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Q: How do you think patience can benefit a person in their daily life?
Sample Answer:
“I think patience is a crucial quality because it helps people handle stress and setbacks more effectively. It allows individuals to think things through before reacting, leading to better decision-making and relationships. Moreover, patience can significantly improve one’s mental health by reducing anxiety levels.” -
Q: Are people in your country generally patient and understanding?
Sample Answer:
“In my view, it varies from person to person. Generally, I think many people strive to be patient and understanding, but the fast-paced nature of modern life can make it challenging. However, cultural teachings often emphasize the importance of empathy and patience, which many people try to practice in their daily lives.”
3. Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Examiner Question and Sample Dialogue
Examiner: “Do you think patience is more important now than in the past?”
Particpant: “Absolutely, given the rapid pace of today’s world, patience has become more critical than ever. With the increasing demands at work and in personal life, being patient can help individuals manage their time better and maintain better relationships.”
Examiner: “How can parents teach their children to be patient and understanding?”
Particpant: “Parents can lead by example by demonstrating patience in their own actions. Encouraging children to wait for their turn, listening to them attentively, and explaining the importance of patience through stories or personal experiences can also be effective ways.”
III. Vocabulary and Structures for a High Score
Key Vocabulary and Phrases:
- Patient (ˈpeɪʃənt) – Willing to wait without becoming annoyed.
- “My grandmother is remarkably patient.”
- Understanding (ˌʌndərˈstændɪŋ) – Sympathetic awareness of other people’s feelings.
- “She is incredibly understanding and always listens to my problems.”
- Empathy (ˈɛmpəθi) – The ability to understand and share the feelings of another.
- “Her empathy makes her approachable to everyone.”
- Calm demeanor (kɑːm dɪˈmiːnər) – A calm and composed manner.
- “Her calm demeanor helps defuse tense situations.”
- Influence (ˈɪnfluəns) – The capacity to have an effect on the character or behavior of someone.
- “She has been a significant influence in my life.”
Example Sentences:
- “Her calm demeanor in stressful situations is something I deeply admire.”
- “Empathy and patience are often intertwined qualities that lead to better relationships.”
IV. Tips for Scoring High in Speaking
- Practice Regularly: Regular practice can significantly improve your fluency and coherence.
- Expand Your Vocabulary: Learning new words and phrases will help you articulate your thoughts more precisely.
- Listen and Imitate: Listen to native English speakers and try to imitate their pronunciation and intonation.
- Stay Calm and Confident: Confidence can greatly influence your performance. Take deep breaths and stay composed.
By incorporating these strategies and practicing diligently, you can improve your performance and achieve a higher band score in the IELTS Speaking test.