The IELTS Speaking test often includes topics related to personal relationships and daily interactions. One common theme that frequently appears is describing people we know well or interact with regularly. This article will guide you through effectively answering questions about a person you often talk to, providing sample responses and valuable tips to help you achieve a high band score.
Describe a travel experience that went wrong can be challenging, but describing a person you often talk to is a more familiar topic that allows you to showcase your English language skills in a relatable context.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask you general questions about people you talk to regularly. Here are some potential questions and a sample answer:
Sample Question: Who do you talk to most often?
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d say I talk to my best friend, Sarah, most frequently. We’ve known each other since high school and have remained close ever since. We communicate daily, either through text messages or phone calls, and often meet up for coffee or dinner when our schedules align. Our conversations cover a wide range of topics, from our day-to-day experiences to more profound discussions about our future aspirations and current global issues.”
Part 2: Long Turn
Cue Card:
Describe a person you often talk to
You should say:
- Who this person is
- How you know this person
- What you usually talk about
- And explain why you talk to this person often
Sample Answer (Band 6-7):
“The person I often talk to is my older sister, Emma. We grew up together in the same household, so we’ve known each other our entire lives. Emma is five years older than me, which means she’s always been someone I look up to and seek advice from.
We usually talk about various things, including our daily lives, work challenges, and family matters. Emma works in marketing, while I’m studying engineering, so we often share our experiences from these different fields. We also enjoy discussing our hobbies, like cooking and traveling, and sometimes plan family gatherings together.
I talk to Emma frequently because she’s not just my sister but also my closest friend. She’s always been supportive and understanding, offering a listening ear when I need it. Her perspective on life, shaped by her additional years of experience, is invaluable to me. Moreover, our conversations help maintain our strong sibling bond despite our busy lives and the physical distance between us, as she lives in a different city.”
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“The individual I frequently engage in conversation with is my mentor, Dr. Johnson, who has been an instrumental figure in my professional development. Our acquaintance began three years ago when I enrolled in his advanced research methodology course during my postgraduate studies.
Our discussions typically revolve around a myriad of topics, ranging from cutting-edge developments in our field of study to philosophical debates about the ethical implications of scientific advancements. We often delve into complex problem-solving scenarios, where Dr. Johnson challenges my critical thinking skills and encourages me to approach issues from multiple perspectives.
The frequency of our interactions stems from several factors. Primarily, Dr. Johnson’s vast expertise and insightful guidance have proven invaluable in navigating my research projects and career decisions. Moreover, his ability to distill complex concepts into comprehensible explanations has significantly enhanced my understanding of our field. Beyond the academic realm, I find our conversations intellectually stimulating and often thought-provoking, pushing me to expand my horizons and consider ideas I might not have otherwise explored.
In essence, our regular dialogues serve as a catalyst for my personal and professional growth, making them an indispensable part of my ongoing learning journey.”
Mentor and student engaging in discussion
Follow-up Questions:
- How has this person influenced your life?
- Do you think it’s important to have someone you can talk to regularly?
Sample Answers (Band 8-9):
“Dr. Johnson has had a profound impact on my life, both academically and personally. His mentorship has significantly enhanced my analytical skills and research capabilities, propelling my academic career to new heights. Moreover, his wisdom and life experiences have broadened my perspective on various issues, encouraging me to think more critically and empathetically about the world around me. His influence has extended beyond the confines of our professional relationship, inspiring me to become a more reflective and socially conscious individual.”
“Absolutely, I believe having a regular conversational partner is crucial for one’s mental and emotional well-being. Such relationships provide a valuable outlet for expressing thoughts and emotions, which is essential for maintaining good mental health. Moreover, engaging in frequent dialogues stimulates cognitive function, enhances communication skills, and broadens one’s perspective through the exchange of ideas. In our increasingly interconnected yet often isolating world, having someone to talk to regularly serves as an anchor, providing stability and support amidst life’s uncertainties.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Sample Questions and Answers:
Q: How do you think technology has changed the way people communicate?
Answer (Band 6-7):
“Technology has greatly changed how we communicate. Nowadays, people use smartphones and social media to stay in touch more easily. We can send messages instantly and make video calls to people far away. This has made communication faster and more convenient. However, some people think it has reduced face-to-face interactions, which might affect our social skills.”
Answer (Band 8-9):
“Technology has revolutionized communication in profound ways. The advent of smartphones and social media platforms has drastically altered the landscape of interpersonal interactions. On one hand, these advancements have facilitated instantaneous global connectivity, enabling real-time communication across vast distances through video calls and instant messaging. This has undoubtedly enhanced our ability to maintain relationships and foster connections despite geographical barriers.
However, this technological shift has also introduced new challenges. The prevalence of digital communication has, in some instances, led to a decline in face-to-face interactions, potentially impacting the development of crucial social skills and emotional intelligence. Moreover, the constant connectivity afforded by these technologies can sometimes result in information overload and decreased attention spans.
Ultimately, while technology has undeniably expanded our communicative capabilities, it has also necessitated a reevaluation of how we balance digital and in-person interactions to ensure meaningful and authentic communication.”
Contrast between digital and face-to-face communication
Q: Do you think the quality of conversations has improved or declined with the rise of social media?
Answer (Band 8-9):
“The impact of social media on the quality of conversations is a complex and nuanced issue. On one hand, social media platforms have democratized information sharing and expanded our access to diverse perspectives and ideas from around the globe. This has the potential to enrich our conversations with a broader range of topics and viewpoints.
However, there are several factors that suggest a potential decline in conversation quality. The character limitations and fast-paced nature of many social media platforms often lead to abbreviated or superficial exchanges, rather than in-depth discussions. Additionally, the echo chamber effect, where algorithms reinforce existing beliefs by showing users content they already agree with, can limit exposure to diverse opinions and hinder constructive debate.
Furthermore, the asynchronous nature of social media interactions can lack the immediacy and non-verbal cues of face-to-face conversations, potentially leading to misunderstandings or a loss of emotional nuance. The constant stream of information can also contribute to shorter attention spans and a tendency to skim rather than deeply engage with content.
That being said, it’s important to note that social media can also facilitate meaningful conversations when used thoughtfully. Online communities centered around specific interests or causes can foster in-depth discussions and collaborative problem-solving. Ultimately, the quality of conversations on social media largely depends on how individuals and communities choose to utilize these platforms.”
Describe a market you often go to is another topic that allows you to practice describing familiar places and experiences, much like discussing a person you often talk to.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
Frequently engage in conversation (phrase) – /ˈfriːkwəntli ɪnˈɡeɪdʒ ɪn ˌkɒnvəˈseɪʃən/ – To often talk with someone
Example: “I frequently engage in conversation with my colleagues during lunch breaks.”Instrumental figure (noun phrase) – /ˌɪnstrəˈmentl ˈfɪɡə/ – A person who plays a crucial role
Example: “My grandfather was an instrumental figure in shaping my career choices.”Myriad (noun/adjective) – /ˈmɪriəd/ – A countless or extremely large number
Example: “We discussed a myriad of topics during our long conversation.”Delve into (phrasal verb) – /delv ˈɪntu/ – To examine or discuss something thoroughly
Example: “In our talks, we often delve into complex philosophical questions.”Thought-provoking (adjective) – /ˈθɔːt prəˈvəʊkɪŋ/ – Stimulating careful consideration or attention
Example: “Her comments are always thought-provoking, making me see things from new perspectives.”
Tips from an IELTS Examiner
Practice regularly: Engage in conversations on various topics to improve your fluency and vocabulary range.
Use a variety of sentence structures: Mix simple and complex sentences to demonstrate your language proficiency.
Develop your ideas: Don’t just give short answers. Explain your thoughts and provide examples to support your points.
Work on pronunciation: Clear pronunciation is crucial for effective communication. Practice difficult sounds and word stress.
Stay calm and confident: Remember, the examiner is interested in your language skills, not judging your personal opinions.
By following these guidelines and practicing regularly, you can significantly improve your performance in the IELTS Speaking test. Remember, the key is to communicate effectively and demonstrate your English language skills confidently.
Describe a person who has a very busy lifestyle could be another interesting topic to explore, especially if the person you often talk to leads a hectic life.