Mastering IELTS Speaking: How to Effectively Describe Your Current Project

The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about ongoing activities or projects. One common topic that candidates may encounter is describing a project they are currently working on. This article will provide valuable insights and strategies to help you excel in this particular speaking task.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In Part 1 of the IELTS Speaking test, you may be asked general questions about your current projects or activities. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:

1. Are you working on any interesting projects at the moment?
2. What kind of projects do you usually enjoy working on?
3. How do you manage your time when working on multiple projects?

Let’s focus on the first question:

Sample answer (Band 7-8):

“Yes, I’m currently involved in an exciting project at work. We’re developing a new mobile app that aims to help people track their daily water intake and promote better hydration habits. It’s quite challenging but also very rewarding to be part of a team that’s creating something potentially beneficial for people’s health.”

describe a skill you learned during your education

Part 2: Long Turn

In this section, you’ll be given a cue card with a topic and some prompts. Here’s a sample cue card related to describing a current project:

Describe A Project You Are Working On Currently

You should say:
- What the project is about
- Why you are working on this project
- Who else is involved in the project
- How long you think it will take to complete

Sample answer (Band 6-7):

“I’m currently working on a personal photography project that I started a few months ago. The project is about capturing the changing seasons in my local park throughout the year. I decided to undertake this project because I wanted to improve my photography skills and also create a visual record of how nature transforms over time.

I’m working on this project independently, but I occasionally share my progress with a local photography group I’m part of. They provide valuable feedback and suggestions, which helps me refine my techniques.

I estimate that the entire project will take about a year to complete since I want to capture all four seasons. I visit the park at least once a week to take photos, and I spend additional time editing and organizing the images.

This project has been a great way for me to develop patience and persistence, as it requires long-term commitment. It’s also helping me to observe nature more closely and appreciate the subtle changes that occur throughout the year.”

Sample answer (Band 8-9):

“I’m currently immersed in a fascinating personal photography project that I initiated a few months ago. The essence of this project revolves around meticulously documenting the metamorphosis of seasons in my local park over the course of a year. My primary motivation for embarking on this endeavor was twofold: to hone my photographic prowess and to create a compelling visual narrative of nature’s cyclical transformations.

While I’m spearheading this project independently, I regularly seek input from a local photography collective I’m affiliated with. Their invaluable insights and constructive criticism have been instrumental in helping me refine my techniques and push the boundaries of my artistic vision.

I anticipate that this project will span approximately a year, as my goal is to encapsulate the full spectrum of seasonal changes. My approach involves conducting weekly excursions to the park to capture images, followed by dedicated time for meticulous editing and thoughtful curation of the photographs.

This long-term commitment has proven to be an excellent exercise in patience and perseverance. Moreover, it has heightened my awareness of the subtle nuances in nature’s transitions, fostering a deeper appreciation for the intricate dance of seasons. The project has not only enhanced my technical skills but also broadened my perspective on the interplay between time, nature, and artistic expression.”

describe a technology you want to use more proficiently

Follow-up questions:

1. How do you stay motivated during long-term projects?
2. What challenges have you faced in this project so far?

Sample answer for question 1 (Band 8-9):

“To maintain motivation throughout long-term projects, I employ several strategies. Firstly, I break down the project into manageable milestones, which allows me to celebrate small victories along the way. This approach helps me maintain a sense of progress and accomplishment. Additionally, I regularly revisit my initial objectives to remind myself of the project’s significance and the skills I’m developing. I also find that sharing my progress with like-minded individuals or on social media platforms provides external validation and encouragement, which can be incredibly motivating during challenging phases of the project.”

describe a library you visited recently

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

In this part, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:

1. Why do you think some people prefer working on long-term projects while others prefer short-term tasks?
2. How do you think technology has changed the way people approach projects?
3. In your opinion, what skills are essential for managing large-scale projects?

Let’s focus on the third question:

Sample answer (Band 7-8):

“I believe that managing large-scale projects requires a diverse set of skills. Firstly, strong leadership and communication abilities are crucial. Project managers need to effectively coordinate team members, delegate tasks, and ensure everyone is aligned with the project goals.

Secondly, organizational skills are essential. This includes the ability to break down complex projects into manageable tasks, set realistic deadlines, and keep track of progress. Time management is also a critical component of this skill set.

Thirdly, problem-solving and adaptability are vital. Large projects often encounter unexpected challenges, so being able to think on your feet and come up with creative solutions is important.

Lastly, I think having a good understanding of the specific field or industry related to the project is beneficial. This knowledge can help in making informed decisions and anticipating potential issues.”

Sample answer (Band 8-9):

“Managing large-scale projects demands a multifaceted skill set that encompasses various crucial competencies. Paramount among these is the ability to provide strong leadership coupled with exceptional communication skills. Effective project managers must adeptly coordinate diverse teams, delegate responsibilities judiciously, and ensure all stakeholders are aligned with the overarching objectives of the project.

Equally critical are superior organizational abilities. This entails the capacity to deconstruct complex undertakings into manageable components, establish realistic timelines, and meticulously monitor progress. Time management, an integral facet of organizational prowess, is indispensable in orchestrating the myriad elements of a large-scale project.

Furthermore, the ability to problem-solve and adapt in the face of unforeseen challenges is essential. Large projects invariably encounter unexpected hurdles, necessitating the ability to think critically and innovatively to formulate effective solutions swiftly.

Lastly, I would argue that a profound understanding of the specific domain or industry pertinent to the project is invaluable. This specialized knowledge enables project managers to make well-informed decisions, anticipate potential pitfalls, and leverage industry-specific best practices to enhance project outcomes.

In essence, the successful management of large-scale projects requires a harmonious blend of interpersonal, organizational, cognitive, and technical skills, all underpinned by a deep understanding of the project’s context and objectives.”

describe an ambition that you have had for a long time

IELTS Speaking examiner and candidate in discussion

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

To elevate your speaking performance, consider incorporating these advanced words and phrases:

1. To embark on (phrasal verb) – /ɪmˈbɑːrk ɒn/ – to start or begin a course of action
   Example: “I decided to embark on this project to challenge myself.”

2. To spearhead (verb) – /ˈspɪəhed/ – to lead or organize
   Example: “I’m spearheading this initiative within our department.”

3. Multifaceted (adjective) – /ˌmʌltɪˈfæsɪtɪd/ – having many different aspects or features
   Example: “Managing a large project requires a multifaceted approach.”

4. To foster (verb) – /ˈfɒstə(r)/ – to encourage the development of something
   Example: “This project has fostered a deeper appreciation for teamwork.”

5. Intricate (adjective) – /ˈɪntrɪkət/ – very complicated or detailed
   Example: “The project involves intricate planning and coordination.”

describe a park or garden you would like to design

Examiner’s Advice

To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when describing a project:

1. Develop your ideas fully: Don’t just list facts; explain your thoughts and provide reasons for your opinions.

2. Use a range of vocabulary: Incorporate advanced vocabulary and idiomatic expressions naturally in your responses.

3. Maintain fluency: Practice speaking at length about various topics to improve your ability to speak continuously without long pauses.

4. Show flexibility: Be prepared to discuss the topic from different angles, especially in Part 3.

5. Use appropriate tenses: When describing ongoing projects, use present continuous and present perfect tenses accurately.

6. Provide specific examples: Support your points with concrete examples from your project or experience.

7. Demonstrate critical thinking: In Part 3, show your ability to analyze and evaluate ideas related to projects and work.

By following these strategies and practicing regularly, you can enhance your performance in the IELTS Speaking test and confidently discuss your current projects or any other topic that may arise.