The IELTS Speaking Test is a vital component of the IELTS examination. In this test, candidates are assessed on their speaking abilities across three parts: Introduction and Interview (Part 1), Long Turn (Part 2), and Two-Way Discussion (Part 3). Examiners evaluate fluency, coherence, lexical resource, grammatical range and accuracy, and pronunciation. One frequent topic is describing a person who is very talented in their craft. This article provides a detailed guide on how to handle this topic and excel in your IELTS Speaking Test.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, the examiner will ask general questions about you, your daily life, or interests. Here are some examples of the typical questions you might encounter:
Common Questions in Part 1
- Can you describe a person who has inspired you?
- Is there someone you know who is exceptionally talented?
- How do you usually spend your free time?
- What qualities do you think a talented person should have?
Sample Answer for a Common Question
Question: Can you describe a person who has inspired you?
Answer: “Sure! There’s my friend Anna, who is exceptionally talented in painting. Her ability to transform a blank canvas into a vibrant piece of art never ceases to amaze me. Each stroke of her brush appears so effortless and filled with emotion.”
Analysis: Using specific examples like “transform a blank canvas” and “effortless strokes filled with emotion” showcases your ability to convey vivid and descriptive imagery, essential for higher band scores.
Part 2: Long Turn
In Part 2, you will be given a cue card and have one minute to prepare. You then speak for up to two minutes on the given topic.
Cue Card Example for the Topic
Describe a person who is very talented in their craft. You should say:
- Who this person is
- How you know them
- What their craft is
- And explain why you think they are talented
master chef
Sample Answer for the Cue Card
Answer:
“One person I would like to talk about is John, a master chef I met during my culinary course. I first encountered him at a workshop where he was the guest speaker, and his culinary skills left an indelible mark on me. John owns a renowned restaurant and has developed a reputation for innovative dishes that not only taste amazing but also appear visually stunning.
What sets John apart is his dedication and passion for culinary arts. He spends hours perfecting his recipes and is always willing to experiment with new ingredients and techniques. This commitment to excellence and his ability to inspire others make him truly remarkable in his field.
John’s talent is evident in his ability to balance flavors and textures to create a harmonious dining experience. Additionally, he maintains a humble demeanor, always eager to learn from others, embodying a growth mindset that I deeply admire.”
Analysis: This example uses descriptive language, specific details like “innovative dishes” and “balance flavors and textures,” and personal anecdotes to create a compelling narrative.
Follow-Up Questions (Bullet Points) and Suggested Answers
How do you think people become talented in their craft?
Answer: “I believe that dedication and passion play significant roles in developing talent. This, coupled with consistent practice and a willingness to learn from mistakes, allows individuals to hone their skills over time.”
Do you think talent is more important than hard work?
Answer: “While natural talent gives an edge, I think hard work is indispensable. Talent can help you get started, but it’s the persistent effort and determination that ultimately lead to mastery.”
Part 3: Two-Way Discussion
Part 3 involves a deeper and often more abstract discussion based on the topic from Part 2.
Examiner Questions and Suggested Answers
Question: Do you think society values certain talents more than others? Why?
Answer: “Yes, I think society tends to value talents that have a direct impact on economic progress or public visibility, such as talents in technology, sports, or entertainment. This may be because such talents often result in high financial rewards and media attention, influencing cultural norms and attitudes.”
Analysis: This answer demonstrates the ability to discuss abstract ideas with clarity and provides logical reasoning.
Question: In what ways can we encourage people to develop their talents?
Answer: “There are numerous ways to foster talent development, such as providing access to education, mentorship programs, and having a supportive community that recognizes and nurtures individual strengths. Additionally, creating opportunities for practical, hands-on experiences can significantly contribute to this development.”
Analysis: By highlighting methods like mentorship and practical opportunities, the response shows a good balance of specificity and authenticity.
Key Vocabulary and Structures for High Band Scores
Vocabulary
- Indelible /ɪnˈdɛləb(ə)l/: making marks that cannot be removed
- Harmony /ˈhɑːr.mə.ni/: the combination of simultaneously sounded musical notes to produce chords and chord progressions having a pleasing effect
- Dedication /ˌdɛdəˈkeɪʃ(ə)n/: the quality of being committed to a task or purpose
- Innovation /ˌɪnəˈveɪʃən/: the action or process of innovating
- Commitment /kəˈmɪtmənt/: the state or quality of being dedicated to a cause or activity
Examples
- “Her dedication to her craft is remarkable.”
- “His recipes show an incredible level of innovation.”
Tips for Practicing Speaking
- Practice regularly: Make speaking English a part of your daily routine.
- Record yourself: Listen to your recordings to identify areas for improvement.
- Seek feedback: Engage with friends or tutors who can provide constructive criticism.
- Expand your vocabulary: Use new words and phrases to express your ideas more clearly.
- Focus on fluency: Don’t worry about making mistakes; aim to speak smoothly and without long pauses.
By diligently applying these strategies and familiarizing yourself with typical topic areas, you can enhance your speaking abilities and perform exceptionally well in the IELTS Speaking Test. Good luck!