The IELTS Speaking test is designed to assess your oral English proficiency. It consists of three parts: Part 1 – Introduction and Interview, Part 2 – Long Turn, and Part 3 – Two-Way Discussion. Examiners evaluate you based on fluency and coherence, lexical resource, grammatical range and accuracy, and pronunciation. One common topic that might appear is “Describe a recent change in your lifestyle.” Let’s explore how to address this topic effectively to achieve a high band score.
I. Introduction
IELTS Speaking Part 2, also known as the long turn, requires you to speak about a given topic for 1-2 minutes. Examiners often ask about recent changes in lifestyle because it’s a relatable and insightful topic. This question assesses your ability to narrate experiences, explain changes, and reflect on their impacts. Here, we will analyze a sample question and provide a detailed answer, highlighting key vocabulary and phrases to help you score well.
II. Main Content
1. Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, the examiner will ask general questions about yourself, your home, work, studies, and other familiar topics to make you feel comfortable. Here are some common questions and a sample answer:
Examiner Question: What do you do to relax?
Sample Answer: “To relax, I often read books or listen to music. Specifically, I enjoy reading fiction because it allows me to escape reality and immerse myself in different worlds. Music, particularly soft instrumental, helps me unwind after a hectic day.”
2. Part 2: Long Turn
Cue Card: Describe a recent change in your lifestyle.
You should say:
- What the change was
- When it happened
- How it affected your life
- And explain how you feel about this change
Sample Answer:
**”A recent change in my lifestyle has been incorporating a regular exercise routine into my daily schedule. This change took place about six months ago. Previously, I led a rather sedentary life, primarily due to my desk job, but I decided to join a local gym.
Since then, I have been working out at least four times a week. This shift profoundly impacted my life. Not only have I become physically fitter, but my mental health has also improved significantly. I feel more energetic throughout the day, and my stress levels have decreased. This newfound activity has also improved my sleeping patterns and overall positivity.
Overall, I feel extremely pleased with this change. It has brought a new dimension to my life, and I am more conscious of maintaining a balanced lifestyle. I intend to keep this routine going and perhaps even take up new forms of physical activity, such as yoga or swimming, to diversify my fitness regimen.”**
Follow-up Questions:
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Do you think changes in lifestyle are usually positive or negative? Why?
“It depends on the nature of the change. Generally, changes aimed at improving health, reducing stress, or enhancing productivity can be positive. However, changes that lead to unhealthy habits or increased stress levels can be detrimental.”
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How can people adapt to significant changes in their lives?
“People can adapt to significant changes by maintaining a positive mindset, seeking support from friends and family, and gradually incorporating new habits. It’s essential to stay patient and persistent, even when facing challenges.”
3. Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Examiner: Let’s talk more about changes people make in their lives.
Examiner Question: What are some reasons why people change their lifestyles?
Sample Answer:
“People often change their lifestyles for various reasons such as health concerns, personal growth, or life transitions. For instance, someone might adopt a healthier diet after a medical diagnosis or start exercising regularly to improve their fitness. Additionally, significant life events like starting a new job, getting married, or having children can prompt changes in lifestyle to better accommodate new responsibilities or priorities.”
Examiner Question: In your opinion, what are the most important changes that people can make in their lives?
Sample Answer:
“I believe the most important changes are those that enhance one’s well-being and personal fulfillment. Quitting harmful habits like smoking, developing a balanced diet and exercise routine, and pursuing activities that bring joy and satisfaction are crucial. These changes can lead to a more fulfilling and healthier life.”
III. Essential Vocabulary and Phrases
Vocabulary
- Sedentary /ˈsednˌterē/ (Adj.): Tending to spend much time seated; inactive.
- Regimen /ˈrej‧ə‧mən/ (N.): A system or planned way of doing things, especially one imposed from above.
- Profound /prəˈfaund/ (Adj.): Very great or intense.
- Incorporate /ɪnˈkɔːpəreɪt/ (V.): Take in or contain (something) as part of a whole; include.
- Conscious /ˈkɒnʃəs/ (Adj.): Aware of and responding to one’s surroundings.
Phrases
- Incorporating a regular routine: The term effectively describes the action of making new habits a part of daily life.
- Profound impact on my life: This phrase emphasizes the significant effect the change has had.
- New dimension to my life: This phrase can help describe how the change has added value or variety to your life.
Example Sentence: Incorporating a regular fitness regimen into my schedule has had a profound impact on my mental and physical well-being.
IV. Tips for High Scores
- Practice Regularly: Consistently practicing speaking about various topics can build your confidence and fluency.
- Expand Your Vocabulary: Use a wide range of vocabulary to demonstrate your lexical resource.
- Be Coherent: Make sure your answers are well-structured and logically organized.
- Pronunciation: Pay attention to your pronunciation. Clear, accurate pronunciation can significantly impact your score.
- Seek Feedback: Practice with a mentor or peer and seek constructive feedback to improve.
For additional practice, consider topics like “Describe a person who has made a positive impact on your life” and “Describe an important tradition in your culture that is changing”.
In summary, achieving a high score in the IELTS Speaking test involves mastering content, fluency, and clarity. Practice diligently, and you will see improvement over time. Good luck!