The IELTS Speaking test is a vital part of your proficiency assessment, and it evaluates your ability to communicate effectively in English. The Speaking test is divided into three parts: Introduction and Interview, Long Turn, and a Two-Way Discussion. This guide focuses on how to answer typical questions related to the cue card topic “Describe a place where you can learn something new.”
An IELTS Speaking Examiner looks for coherence, fluency, lexical resource, grammatical range, and pronunciation when assessing your speaking abilities. Preparing well for common cue cards and practicing extensively can significantly boost your performance.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, the Examiner will ask you general questions about yourself and topics such as home, work, school, and your interests. This part typically lasts 4-5 minutes.
Common Questions and Sample Answer
Question: Do you enjoy learning new things?
Sample Answer:
“Yes, I absolutely love learning new things. It’s a way to broaden my horizons and stay intellectually stimulated. For example, last year I took up a cooking class to learn about different cuisines, and it was a fascinating experience.”
In this answer, phrases like “absolutely love” and “fascinating experience” demonstrate enthusiasm and provide depth, which can boost your lexical resource score.
Part 2: Long Turn
During this part, you’ll receive a task card with a topic you’ll need to speak about for 1-2 minutes. You will have one minute to prepare, taking notes if necessary. The Examiner will listen and may ask one or two follow-up questions on the same topic.
Cue Card
Describe a place where you can learn something new.
You should say:
- What this place is
- What you can learn there
- How you came to know about it
- And explain why you think it is a good place for learning something new.
Sample Answer
“One remarkable place where I can learn something new is a community center located close to my neighborhood. This center offers a wide array of courses ranging from languages to cooking, and even technology workshops.
I first learned about this place from a friend who enrolled in a photography course there. Intrigued, I decided to check it out myself and was astonished by the variety and quality of learning opportunities available.
What really stands out about this community center is the inclusive environment and the expert tutors who guide you through each lesson. For instance, during a spanish class I attended there, the tutor used engaging methods like interactive speaking exercises and multimedia resources.
I believe it’s an ideal place for anyone looking to expand their skill set because it offers a supportive community and expert instruction, making learning both fun and effective.”
Follow-up Questions:
- How often do you go there?
- I try to go there every weekend. It’s a regular part of my routine now because the classes are both informative and enjoyable.
- What’s the most valuable skill you’ve learned there?
- The most valuable skill I’ve learned so far is basic coding. It has opened up a new realm of opportunities for me in terms of career advancement.
Part 3: Two-Way Discussion
In this part, the Examiner will ask further questions related to the topic in Part 2, focusing on more abstract ideas and issues. This will last 4-5 minutes.
Example Discussion
Examiner: Why do you think it’s important for people to continue learning new things throughout their lives?
Candidate:
“I believe it’s crucial for people to keep learning throughout their lives because it keeps our minds sharp and drives personal development. Lifelong learning allows us to adapt to changing environments, stay competitive in the job market, and enrich our lives with new knowledge and skills. For instance, in the twenty-first century, technology is evolving rapidly, and keeping up with these changes is essential.”
In this response, terms like “crucial”, “keeps our minds sharp”, and “enrich our lives” effectively showcase a range of vocabulary and insightful viewpoints.
Examiner: What are the benefits of learning in a community setting?
Candidate:
“Learning in a community setting offers numerous benefits. Firstly, it creates a collaborative environment where ideas can be exchanged freely. For example, in group discussions, you can gain different perspectives, which enriches your understanding. Moreover, a community setting promotes social interaction, helping learners build networks and friendships, which can be extremely motivating.”
Examiner: Are there any downsides to learning in a community setting compared to self-study?
Candidate:
“While community learning has many benefits, there are some downsides to consider. One significant drawback is the lack of individualized attention, as tutors have to cater to the entire group. This may result in slower progress for some individuals. Additionally, scheduled classes might not always be convenient for everyone, unlike self-study, which provides flexibility.”
Vocabulary and Structures for High Scores
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Remarkable (adjective): /rəˈmɑrkəb(ə)l/ – worthy of attention; striking.
- “The display of remarkable talent at the concert was impressive.”
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Array (noun): /əˈreɪ/ – an impressive display or range of a particular type of thing.
- “The museum had a wide array of ancient artifacts.”
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Inclusive (adjective): /ɪnˈklusɪv/ – not excluding any of the parties or groups involved in something.
- “She appreciated the school’s inclusive approach to education.”
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Engaging (adjective): /ɪnˈɡeɪdʒɪŋ/ – charming and attractive.
- “The lecturer used engaging examples to explain the concept.”
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Astonished (adjective): /əˈstɒnɪʃt/ – greatly surprised or impressed; amazed.
- “I was astonished by the immediate improvement in my skills.”
Examiner’s Tips for Preparation
- Practice Regularly: Dedicate a portion of your day to practice speaking English. The more you speak, the more fluent and confident you will become.
- Use a Range of Vocabulary: Try to incorporate new and varied vocabulary in your answers to demonstrate lexical resource.
- Engage with Native Speakers: If possible, engage in conversations with native speakers to improve your pronunciation and understand natural speech patterns.
- Record Your Practice: Recording your responses can help you identify areas for improvement in coherence and pronunciation.
- Stay Calm and Confident: Being relaxed can significantly enhance your performance. Focus on communicating your ideas clearly and naturally.
By following these guidelines and using the sample answers provided, you can approach your IELTS Speaking test with confidence and aim for the highest band score possible.