The topic of describing future plans is a common one in IELTS Speaking exams, particularly in Part 2. This theme allows examiners to assess a candidate’s ability to discuss abstract concepts, use future tenses, and express ambitions coherently. Let’s explore how to tackle this topic effectively to maximize your IELTS Speaking score.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, you may encounter questions related to your future plans. Here’s an example question with a suggested answer:
Q: Do you often make plans for your future?
A: Absolutely. I’m quite a forward-thinking person, so I frequently find myself contemplating my future goals. I believe it’s crucial to have a roadmap for personal and professional development, even if plans sometimes change along the way.
Part 2: Long Turn
Here’s a sample cue card related to future plans:
Describe a plan you have for your future.
You should say:
- What the plan is
- When you made this plan
- How you will achieve it
- And explain why this plan is important to you
Sample Answer (Band 6-7):
One significant plan I have for my future is to start my own business in the field of sustainable fashion. I came up with this idea about two years ago when I realized how much waste the fashion industry produces. To achieve this goal, I’m currently studying business management and fashion design to gain the necessary skills. I’m also saving up money and networking with people in the industry. This plan is important to me because I want to make a positive impact on the environment while pursuing my passion for fashion.
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
One ambitious plan I’ve set my sights on for the future is to establish a groundbreaking startup in the realm of sustainable fashion. This brainchild of mine was conceived approximately two years ago when I became acutely aware of the staggering amount of waste generated by the fashion industry. To bring this vision to fruition, I’m currently immersing myself in business management and fashion design studies to acquire the requisite expertise. Simultaneously, I’m diligently building up my financial reserves and cultivating a robust network within the industry. This plan holds immense significance for me as it represents the perfect confluence of my passion for fashion and my deep-seated desire to make a tangible, positive impact on our environment.
Follow-up Questions:
Q: How do you think your plan might change in the future?
A (Band 6-7): I think my plan might change as I learn more about the industry. I might focus on a specific type of sustainable fashion or expand into other eco-friendly products. I’m open to adjusting my goals as I gain more experience.
A (Band 8-9): As I delve deeper into the intricacies of the industry, I anticipate that my plan may undergo some evolution. I might narrow my focus to a niche area of sustainable fashion or potentially broaden my horizons to encompass a wider range of eco-friendly products. I’m remaining flexible and receptive to new ideas, understanding that adaptability is key in the ever-changing business landscape.
Q: What challenges do you think you might face in achieving this plan?
A (Band 6-7): I expect to face several challenges, such as securing funding for my business and competing with established brands. It might also be difficult to source sustainable materials at affordable prices. However, I’m prepared to work hard and overcome these obstacles.
A (Band 8-9): I anticipate encountering a myriad of challenges on this entrepreneurial journey. Securing substantial funding in a competitive market and establishing a foothold against well-entrenched brands are likely to be formidable hurdles. Additionally, sourcing eco-friendly materials that are both sustainable and cost-effective could prove to be a complex undertaking. Nevertheless, I’m steeling myself for these challenges and am resolute in my determination to surmount these obstacles through perseverance and innovative problem-solving.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Q: How important do you think it is for young people to have clear plans for their future?
A (Band 6-7): I believe it’s quite important for young people to have clear plans for their future. Having goals gives them direction and motivation. However, it’s also important to be flexible because life can be unpredictable. Plans can help young people make better decisions about their education and career paths.
A (Band 8-9): I firmly believe that having clear plans for the future is paramount for young individuals. Such plans serve as a crucial compass, providing direction and instilling a sense of purpose. They act as a powerful motivator, encouraging young people to strive for excellence in their endeavors. However, it’s equally imperative to maintain a degree of flexibility, given the inherently unpredictable nature of life. Well-thought-out plans can significantly inform critical decisions regarding education and career trajectories, while also fostering resilience and adaptability in the face of unforeseen circumstances.
Q: Do you think people’s plans for the future are influenced by their culture or society?
A (Band 6-7): Yes, I think culture and society have a big influence on people’s future plans. In some cultures, there’s a lot of pressure to follow certain career paths or get married by a certain age. Society’s values can shape what people see as successful or desirable. However, I think this is changing with globalization, and people are becoming more independent in their choices.
A (Band 8-9): Undoubtedly, culture and society wield significant influence over individuals’ future plans. Cultural norms and societal expectations often exert considerable pressure on people to conform to certain life trajectories, be it in terms of career choices or personal milestones like marriage. These deeply ingrained values tend to shape perceptions of success and desirability. However, it’s worth noting that the advent of globalization has begun to shift this paradigm. We’re witnessing a gradual erosion of these traditional constraints as people become increasingly exposed to diverse perspectives and alternative lifestyles. This cultural cross-pollination is fostering a more individualistic approach to future planning, with people feeling more empowered to chart their own course, often diverging from conventional paths.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
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To set one’s sights on (phrasal verb) – /tə set wʌnz saɪts ɒn/ – to choose something as a goal
Example: I’ve set my sights on becoming a renowned environmental lawyer. -
To bring (something) to fruition (phrase) – /tə brɪŋ (ˈsʌmθɪŋ) tə fruˈɪʃən/ – to make something happen or become successful
Example: It took years of hard work to bring my business idea to fruition. -
Confluence (noun) – /ˈkɒnfluəns/ – a situation where two or more things come together
Example: My career represents a confluence of my passion for technology and my desire to help others. -
To delve deeper (phrase) – /tə delv ˈdiːpə/ – to examine or investigate something thoroughly
Example: As I delve deeper into my field of study, I discover new areas of interest. -
Formidable (adjective) – /ˈfɔːmɪdəbl/ – impressive; causing fear, dread, or awe
Example: Starting a business in today’s competitive market is a formidable challenge.
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when discussing future plans:
- Use a variety of tenses accurately, especially future tenses.
- Incorporate idiomatic expressions and advanced vocabulary naturally.
- Provide specific examples to support your points.
- Show your ability to discuss abstract concepts and hypothetical situations.
- Maintain fluency by practicing regularly and developing strategies to buy thinking time.
Remember, the key to success is not just having a good plan for your future, but also being able to articulate it clearly and confidently in English. Regular practice with these techniques will help you describe a trip you would like to take in the future or any other future plans with ease and sophistication during your IELTS Speaking test.