The IELTS Speaking Test is a vital part of the overall IELTS examination, and it can be particularly challenging for many candidates. As an examiner, I understand what makes a candidate’s response stand out. In this detailed guide, we will explore specific strategies and provide sample answers to help you effectively tackle the common topic: “Describe A Person Who Is Very Talented In Their Field.”
I. Introduction
The IELTS Speaking test is divided into three parts: Part 1 (Introduction and Interview), Part 2 (Long Turn), and Part 3 (Two-way Discussion). Understanding the examiner’s expectations can significantly enhance your performance. Examiners look for fluency, coherence, lexical resource, grammatical range, and pronunciation. The topic “Describe a person who is very talented in their field” often appears, making it essential to prepare effectively.
II. Main Content
1. Part 1: Introduction and Interview
Examiners often start with general questions to make you comfortable. Here are some common questions:
Example Question: “Who is your role model?”
Suggested Answer:
“My role model is Elon Musk. His exceptional talent in engineering and entrepreneurship inspires me greatly. He has revolutionized several industries, including automotive and space exploration, demonstrating not just his innovative mindset but also his relentless drive towards achieving his visions.”
2. Part 2: Long Turn
In Part 2, you will be given a cue card with a specific prompt.
Cue Card Example:
Describe a person who is very talented in their field. You should say:
- Who this person is
- What their talent is
- How you know about this person
- Explain why you think they are talented
Suggested Answer:
“I’d like to talk about Marie Curie, who is profoundly talented in the field of science, particularly physics and chemistry. She is renowned for her groundbreaking research on radioactivity, which significantly advanced the scientific community’s understanding in the early 20th century.
I first learned about her during a high school science project, where we had to research influential scientists. Her story captivated me because she had not only won two Nobel Prizes in different scientific fields, but also faced and overcame enormous challenges, including gender biases and health hazards related to her research.
What makes her so talented is her intellectual brilliance combined with unparalleled perseverance. She didn’t just contribute to science theoretically; her practical applications of radioactivity have had long-lasting effects in medicine and energy production, which is still relevant today. Her legacy continues to inspire countless scientists and students around the world, including myself.”
Follow-Up Questions:
- How do you think people can cultivate their talents?
- Can talent be nurtured through hard work, or is it something people are born with?
Suggested Answers:
“People can cultivate their talents through consistent practice, learning, and dedication. Exposure to mentors and real-world experiences also enriches their skill set.”
“I believe talent is a combination of innate ability and hard work. While some people might have a natural inclination towards certain skills, dedication and practice are crucial for honing those abilities to their fullest potential.”
3. Part 3: Two-Way Discussion
In this part, the examiner engages you in a more abstract discussion related to the topic.
Examiner’s Question:
“Some people believe that a person’s talent is innate. Do you agree or disagree?”
Suggested Answer:
“I partially agree. While innate ability plays a role, it must be coupled with diligent effort and proper training. For instance, many athletes may have a natural predisposition to sport, but their success often hinges on rigorous training and mental toughness. It’s the combination of natural talent and hard work that propels someone to excellence.”
Examiner’s Question:
“What impact do talented individuals have on society?”
Suggested Answer:
“Talented individuals can have a profound impact on society by inspiring innovative solutions to complex problems. For example, Nikola Tesla’s talents in electrical engineering have shaped modern technology, from electricity to wireless communication. Their contributions can lead to economic growth, improved quality of life, and societal progress.”
III. Key Vocabulary and Structures
Vocabulary:
- Groundbreaking: /ˈɡraʊndˌbreɪ.kɪŋ/ (adj.) making new discoveries
- Perseverance: /ˌpɜː.sɪˈvɪə.rəns/ (n.) continued effort to do or achieve something despite difficulties
- Renowned: /rɪˈnaʊnd/ (adj.) known and admired by many people
- Legacy: /ˈleɡ.ə.si/ (n.) something handed down by a predecessor
- Innate: /ɪˈneɪt/ (adj.) inborn or natural
Structures:
- “What makes [subject] so [adjective] is…”
- “I first learned about [subject] when…”
- “This person’s contribution to [field] is significant because…”
IV. Conclusion and Advice
Practicing these responses and understanding the format of the IELTS Speaking Test can significantly improve your score. Here are some tips:
- Practice Regularly: Use cue cards to practice Part 2 regularly.
- Seek Feedback: Have someone, preferably a teacher or a native speaker, critique your responses.
- Stay Updated: Read about various talented individuals across different fields.
- Stay Relaxed: During the test, stay calm and think of it as a conversation.
By following these practices, you should be well-prepared to answer any question related to describing a talented person. Good luck!
