The topic “describe a risk you took that ended with a positive result” is a common theme in IELTS Speaking tests, particularly in Part 2. This subject allows examiners to assess candidates’ ability to narrate personal experiences, express emotions, and reflect on outcomes. Given its relevance to real-life situations, this topic has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to remain popular in future tests.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, the examiner may ask general questions related to risk-taking. Here’s an example question with a suggested answer:
Examiner: “Do you consider yourself a risk-taker?”
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“I’d say I’m a calculated risk-taker. While I don’t shy away from challenges, I always weigh the pros and cons before making decisions. I believe taking measured risks is essential for personal growth and success in life.”
Part 2: Long Turn
Cue Card
Describe a risk you took that ended with a positive result.
You should say:
- What the risk was
- Why you took it
- What the result was
- And explain how you felt about the experience
Sample Answer (Band 6-7)
“I’d like to talk about a time when I took a risk that turned out well. A few years ago, I decided to quit my stable job and start my own small business. It was a big risk because I was leaving a secure position with a good salary to venture into the unknown world of entrepreneurship.
I took this risk because I felt unfulfilled in my job and had always dreamed of being my own boss. I had a passion for graphic design and believed I could turn it into a successful business. Despite the uncertainty, I felt it was the right time to take the leap.
The result was surprisingly positive. Within six months, I had secured several clients and was earning more than I did in my previous job. My business continued to grow steadily over the next couple of years.
Looking back, I feel incredibly proud of myself for taking that risk. It was nerve-wracking at first, but the experience taught me a lot about my own capabilities and the importance of pursuing your dreams. The whole journey was exhilarating, and I’m glad I had the courage to take that initial step.”
Sample Answer (Band 8-9)
“I’d like to recount a significant risk I took that culminated in a remarkably positive outcome. Several years ago, I made the audacious decision to resign from my lucrative corporate position and embark on a journey of entrepreneurship by launching my own boutique graphic design agency.
The risk was substantial as I was relinquishing a secure, well-compensated role to venture into the unpredictable realm of self-employment. However, I was compelled to take this leap of faith due to a profound sense of creative stagnation in my corporate role and an unwavering belief in my ability to offer unique value in the design industry.
The result far exceeded my expectations. Within the first year, I had not only matched my previous salary but had also cultivated a diverse portfolio of high-profile clients. The business experienced exponential growth, and by the third year, I was leading a team of talented designers and had established a reputable presence in the industry.
Reflecting on this experience, I feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude and accomplishment. The initial period was undoubtedly fraught with anxiety and self-doubt, but overcoming these challenges has been immensely rewarding. This risk not only revolutionized my career trajectory but also instilled in me a profound appreciation for the power of calculated risk-taking and the importance of pursuing one’s passion with unwavering determination.”
Follow-up Questions
Examiner: “How did this experience change your attitude towards risk-taking?”
Sample answer (Band 6-7):
“This experience definitely made me more open to taking risks. I realized that sometimes, the potential rewards outweigh the fear of failure. Now, I’m more willing to step out of my comfort zone and try new things, both in my personal and professional life.”
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“This transformative experience has fundamentally altered my perception of risk-taking. It has instilled in me a profound understanding that calculated risks are often catalysts for personal and professional growth. I’ve become more adept at discerning between reckless gambles and strategic risks, and I now approach challenges with a more balanced perspective, weighing potential gains against possible setbacks with greater acumen.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Examiner: “Do you think young people and older people have different attitudes towards risk-taking?”
Sample answer (Band 6-7):
“Yes, I believe there’s often a difference. Young people tend to be more willing to take risks because they have less to lose and more time to recover if things go wrong. They’re usually more enthusiastic about trying new things. Older people, on the other hand, might be more cautious because they have more responsibilities and experience that makes them aware of potential consequences.”
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“Indeed, I believe there’s a discernible disparity in risk-taking attitudes between younger and older generations. Young individuals often exhibit a greater propensity for risk-taking, driven by their inherent optimism, resilience, and the longer time horizon they possess to recover from potential setbacks. Their unbridled enthusiasm and desire for novel experiences frequently override concerns about potential negative outcomes.
Conversely, older individuals tend to adopt a more measured approach to risk-taking. This cautiousness is often a product of their accumulated life experiences, which have instilled a deeper understanding of potential consequences. Furthermore, the increased responsibilities and established commitments that typically accompany age can serve as deterrents to high-risk behaviors.
However, it’s crucial to note that these are generalizations, and individual attitudes towards risk can vary significantly based on personal experiences, cultural background, and specific circumstances.”
Examiner: “In what ways can taking risks be beneficial for society?”
Sample answer (Band 6-7):
“Taking risks can be very beneficial for society in several ways. Firstly, it can lead to new inventions and innovations that improve our lives. Many great discoveries and technological advancements came from people who were willing to take risks. Secondly, risk-taking can promote economic growth by encouraging entrepreneurship and investment in new ideas. Lastly, it can inspire others to be more courageous and pursue their dreams, which can lead to a more dynamic and progressive society.”
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“Risk-taking can yield multifaceted benefits for society, playing a pivotal role in driving progress and innovation. Primarily, it serves as a catalyst for groundbreaking advancements across various fields, from science and technology to social reform. History is replete with examples of paradigm-shifting discoveries and inventions that emerged from individuals or groups willing to challenge the status quo and venture into uncharted territories.
Moreover, risk-taking is intrinsically linked to entrepreneurship, which is a key driver of economic growth and job creation. By fostering a culture that values and supports calculated risk-taking, societies can cultivate a more dynamic and resilient economy, better equipped to adapt to global challenges and opportunities.
Furthermore, a society that embraces risk-taking tends to be more adaptable and resilient in the face of unforeseen challenges. It encourages a mindset of continuous improvement and problem-solving, which is crucial in our rapidly evolving world.
Lastly, risk-taking can contribute to social progress by challenging outdated norms and pushing for positive change. Many significant social movements and reforms throughout history were initiated by individuals willing to take risks for the greater good.
However, it’s important to note that the benefits of risk-taking are maximized when balanced with responsible decision-making and ethical considerations. A society that encourages thoughtful, well-informed risk-taking is likely to reap the most significant rewards while minimizing potential negative consequences.”
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
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Calculated risk /ˈkælkjʊleɪtɪd rɪsk/ (noun phrase): A risk that has been carefully considered and evaluated.
Example: “Starting my own business was a calculated risk, not a reckless gamble.” -
Leap of faith /liːp əv feɪθ/ (idiom): An act of believing in or attempting something whose existence or outcome cannot be proved.
Example: “Quitting my job to travel the world was a real leap of faith.” -
Venture into the unknown /ˈventʃə ˈɪntə ðə ʌnˈnəʊn/ (phrase): To do something new and potentially risky.
Example: “By starting her own company, she ventured into the unknown world of entrepreneurship.” -
Weigh the pros and cons /weɪ ðə prəʊz ænd kɒnz/ (idiom): To consider the advantages and disadvantages of something.
Example: “Before making any major decision, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons carefully.” -
Step out of one’s comfort zone /step aʊt əv wʌnz ˈkʌmfət zəʊn/ (phrase): To do something that you are not comfortable with in order to grow or improve.
Example: “Taking public speaking classes helped me step out of my comfort zone.”
Describe a time when you handled a misunderstanding can also involve taking risks in communication, which is an essential skill in both personal and professional contexts.
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when discussing risks and their outcomes:
- Use a variety of vocabulary and complex sentence structures to demonstrate your language proficiency.
- Provide specific examples and personal experiences to support your points.
- Practice speaking about different types of risks and their potential outcomes to improve fluency.
- Focus on clear pronunciation and natural intonation to enhance your delivery.
- Develop your ideas fully, providing reasons and examples for your opinions.
Remember, describe a time when you offered help to someone could also involve an element of risk-taking, as helping others sometimes requires stepping out of our comfort zones.
By following these guidelines and practicing regularly, you can significantly improve your performance in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when discussing risks and their outcomes. Remember, the key is to speak confidently, coherently, and with a rich vocabulary that showcases your English language skills.
Describe an occasion when you were very excited could be an excellent opportunity to discuss the positive emotions associated with taking a successful risk.