The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about influential people in our lives, particularly those who have taught us valuable lessons. One common topic is describing someone who has imparted knowledge about nature. This theme combines personal experiences with environmental awareness, making it a popular choice for examiners. As an experienced IELTS Speaking examiner, I’ll guide you through answering such questions effectively to achieve a high band score.
Describe a person who is always calm can be a related topic, as people who appreciate nature often exhibit calmness. Let’s explore how to tackle this speaking task comprehensively.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about nature and learning experiences. Here are some potential questions:
- Do you enjoy spending time in nature?
- What’s your favorite natural place to visit?
- How do you think people can learn about nature?
- Have you ever had a memorable experience in nature?
Let’s look at a sample answer for question 3:
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I believe there are numerous ways people can learn about nature. Firstly, hands-on experiences like hiking, camping, or even just spending time in local parks can provide invaluable insights into the natural world. Additionally, documentaries and nature programs offer a wealth of information and stunning visuals that can spark curiosity and deepen understanding. Moreover, reading books or scientific articles about ecology and environmental issues can provide a more academic perspective. Ultimately, I think a combination of personal experiences and educational resources is the most effective approach to learning about nature.”
Part 2: Long Turn
Here’s a sample cue card related to our topic:
Describe a person who taught you an important lesson about nature.
You should say:
- Who this person is
- What lesson they taught you
- How they taught you this lesson
- And explain why this lesson was important to you
Sample Answer (Band 6-7):
“I’d like to talk about my grandfather, who taught me an important lesson about nature. He was an avid gardener and spent a lot of time in his backyard. The lesson he taught me was about the importance of biodiversity in ecosystems.
He showed me this by creating a small pond in his garden. He explained that the pond would attract different insects, birds, and small animals. Over time, I saw how the area around the pond became more lively and diverse.
My grandfather taught me this lesson by involving me in the process. We built the pond together, planted various plants around it, and observed the changes over several months. He encouraged me to keep a journal of the different species we saw.
This lesson was important because it helped me understand how everything in nature is connected. It made me more aware of the impact humans can have on the environment, both positive and negative. Thanks to my grandfather, I developed a deeper appreciation for nature and the need to protect it.”
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to elaborate on my high school biology teacher, Dr. Johnson, who imparted a profound lesson about nature’s delicate balance and the far-reaching consequences of human actions on ecosystems.
Dr. Johnson enlightened us about the intricate web of relationships in nature through a compelling case study of the reintroduction of wolves to Yellowstone National Park. She meticulously explained how the wolves’ return triggered a trophic cascade, dramatically altering the park’s entire ecosystem.
Her teaching method was remarkably engaging. She utilized a combination of multimedia presentations, interactive discussions, and a hands-on experiment where we simulated ecosystem changes using a complex board game. This multifaceted approach made the concepts tangible and memorable.
This lesson was tremendously significant as it opened my eyes to the ripple effects of environmental changes. It instilled in me a deep sense of responsibility towards nature and sparked my passion for environmental conservation. Dr. Johnson’s lesson fundamentally shifted my perspective, making me acutely aware of how our actions, no matter how small, can have far-reaching implications for the natural world.”
Teacher and student discussing ecosystem
Follow-up questions:
- How has this lesson influenced your daily life?
- Do you think schools should focus more on teaching about nature?
Sample Answer for question 1 (Band 8-9):
“This lesson has profoundly impacted my daily life in numerous ways. Firstly, I’ve become significantly more conscious of my environmental footprint. I now meticulously sort my waste for recycling, opt for eco-friendly products, and make a concerted effort to reduce my energy consumption. Moreover, I’ve developed a keen interest in local flora and fauna, often spending my weekends exploring nearby natural areas and documenting the biodiversity I encounter. This newfound awareness has also influenced my dietary choices, leading me to adopt a more plant-based diet to minimize my impact on natural resources. Ultimately, this lesson has transformed my worldview, making me a more environmentally responsible citizen and an advocate for nature conservation in my community.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In this section, the examiner might ask more abstract questions related to nature education and environmental awareness. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:
- How do you think technology has changed the way people learn about nature?
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“Technology has revolutionized the way people learn about nature in myriad ways. On one hand, it has made information incredibly accessible. With just a few clicks, anyone can access high-quality documentaries, interactive learning platforms, and vast databases of scientific information about the natural world. Virtual reality and augmented reality technologies have taken this a step further, allowing people to immerse themselves in natural environments without leaving their homes.
However, there’s a flip side to this technological advancement. The ease of access to digital content might be discouraging people from experiencing nature firsthand. There’s a growing concern that excessive screen time is leading to what some experts call ‘nature deficit disorder‘, particularly among younger generations.
Nevertheless, when used judiciously, technology can complement and enhance our understanding of nature. Citizen science apps, for instance, allow people to contribute to scientific research by recording their observations of local wildlife. GPS tracking has revolutionized our understanding of animal migration patterns. Ultimately, I believe the key lies in striking a balance between utilizing technology and experiencing nature directly.”
- What role do you think governments should play in educating people about nature conservation?
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“Governments have a crucial role to play in educating the public about nature conservation, and I believe this responsibility should be approached from multiple angles.
Firstly, governments should integrate comprehensive environmental education into school curricula from an early age. This would ensure that future generations grow up with a solid understanding of ecological issues and the importance of conservation.
Secondly, governments can launch public awareness campaigns using various media channels. These campaigns could highlight local environmental challenges, provide practical tips for conservation, and showcase success stories to inspire action.
Moreover, governments can establish and fund nature education centers and programs. These could include interactive museums, wildlife sanctuaries, and community gardens, providing hands-on learning experiences for people of all ages.
Additionally, governments should incentivize businesses and organizations that promote environmental education. This could be through tax breaks, grants, or public recognition for initiatives that raise awareness about nature conservation.
Lastly, governments have the power to enact and enforce policies that protect natural areas and mandate sustainable practices. By doing so, they not only preserve nature but also set a strong example of the importance of conservation.
In conclusion, I believe governments should take a multifaceted approach, combining education, awareness campaigns, practical initiatives, and policy measures to effectively educate the public about nature conservation.”
Government nature conservation education program
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
To achieve a high band score, incorporate sophisticated vocabulary and phrases into your responses. Here are some examples:
Biodiversity /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti/ (noun): The variety of plant and animal life in a particular habitat.
Example: “The rainforest’s rich biodiversity is crucial for maintaining ecological balance.”Ecosystem /ˈiːkəʊˌsɪstəm/ (noun): A biological community of interacting organisms and their physical environment.
Example: “Human activities can have far-reaching effects on delicate ecosystems.”Conservation /ˌkɒnsəˈveɪʃn/ (noun): The protection of plants, animals, and natural areas.
Example: “Wildlife conservation efforts have helped save several species from extinction.”Sustainability /səˌsteɪnəˈbɪləti/ (noun): The ability to maintain ecological balance without depleting natural resources.
Example: “Many companies are now focusing on sustainability in their business practices.”Environmental stewardship /ɪnˌvaɪrənˈmentl ˈstjuːədʃɪp/ (noun): The responsible use and protection of the natural environment.
Example: “As global citizens, we all have a responsibility for environmental stewardship.”
Examiner’s Advice
To excel in the IELTS Speaking test when discussing nature-related topics:
- Use a variety of sentence structures to demonstrate linguistic flexibility.
- Incorporate relevant vocabulary and idiomatic expressions naturally.
- Provide specific examples to support your points.
- Show critical thinking by discussing both positive and negative aspects of issues.
- Practice speaking about nature topics regularly to build confidence and fluency.
Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is not just about what you say, but how you say it. Aim for clarity, coherence, and confidence in your responses.
Describe a person who has taught you about environmental conservation is a closely related topic that you might also encounter. The strategies and vocabulary discussed here can be equally applicable to that topic as well.