When discussing wisdom in the IELTS Speaking test, candidates often need to demonstrate their ability to articulate personal experiences and observations thoughtfully. This topic frequently appears in both Part 2 and Part 3 of the speaking test, making it essential to prepare thoroughly.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview Questions
Common questions you might encounter:
- Do you think wisdom comes with age?
- What qualities make someone wise?
- How can people become wiser?
Similar to how candidates approach describe an expensive activity that you enjoy occasionally, discussing wisdom requires personal reflection and specific examples.
Part 2: Cue Card
Your task is to describe a person you think is wise. You should say:
- Who this person is
- How you know them
- What makes them wise
- And explain how their wisdom has influenced you
Sample Answer (Band 8-9)
“I’d like to talk about my grandfather, who has been a remarkable source of wisdom in my life. He’s a retired professor of philosophy who has dedicated his life to both academic pursuits and practical problem-solving.
What makes him particularly wise is his extraordinary ability to see beyond the surface of any situation. For instance, when I was struggling with career choices, instead of giving direct advice, he guided me through a process of self-discovery. He would ask thought-provoking questions that helped me understand my own values and aspirations.
His wisdom manifests in his balanced perspective on life. He often says that true wisdom lies not in knowing all the answers, but in asking the right questions. This approach has profoundly influenced my decision-making process.”
Elderly man sharing wisdom with younger generation
Just as describe a library that you visited requires detailed observation, describing a wise person demands careful attention to their unique characteristics.
Follow-up Questions
- How has this person’s wisdom helped others?
- What specific advice from them do you remember most?
Part 3: Discussion Questions
Q: Do you think wisdom is valued differently in modern society compared to the past?
Band 8-9 Response:
“In my view, wisdom has undergone a significant transformation in modern society. While traditional societies revered elderly wisdom based on life experience, today’s world seems to place greater emphasis on technological literacy and adaptability. However, I believe we’re seeing a resurgence in appreciating timeless wisdom, particularly as people seek guidance in navigating life’s complexities.”
Similar to describe someone who made a good decision recently, discussing wisdom requires analyzing decision-making processes and outcomes.
Key Vocabulary and Expressions
- Sagacious /səˈɡeɪʃəs/ (adj): having good judgment and deep understanding
- Discerning /dɪˈsɜːnɪŋ/ (adj): showing good judgment about quality and value
- Prudent /ˈpruːdənt/ (adj): careful and showing good judgment
- To impart wisdom (phrase): to pass on knowledge and understanding
- Voice of reason (idiom): someone who gives sensible advice
Examiner’s Tips
- Use specific examples to illustrate wisdom
- Include personal experiences and observations
- Demonstrate critical thinking in Part 3 responses
- Balance emotional and logical aspects in descriptions
- Maintain coherent structure in longer answers
Remember, just as with describe a documentary you watched recently, your response should be well-structured and engaging while maintaining authenticity in your personal narrative.
