Achieving a high score in the IELTS Speaking exam requires not only good command of the English language but also the ability to present your thoughts clearly and confidently. This article will guide you through how to effectively answer the common IELTS Speaking question: “Describe a situation when you felt nervous.”
I. Introduction
The IELTS Speaking test evaluates your speaking abilities across various parameters such as fluency, coherence, lexical resource, grammatical range, and pronunciation. It is divided into three parts: Part 1 (Introduction and Interview), Part 2 (Long Turn), and Part 3 (Two-way Discussion).
Questions related to describing a situation when you felt nervous are frequently encountered, as they assess your ability to narrate personal experiences and reflect on your emotional responses, which involve a complex use of language.
II. Main Content
1. Part 1: Introduction and Interview
Examiner might ask questions about your everyday life, interests, and personal background. Here are some common questions:
- What do you do to relax when you feel nervous?
- Have you ever felt nervous about speaking in public?
- What was your first experience of feeling nervous about something?
Sample Question and Answer:
Question: What do you do to relax when you feel nervous?
Sample Answer: When I feel nervous, I usually take a few deep breaths and listen to some calming music. Sometimes, a brisk walk also helps me clear my mind and reduce anxiety. Additionally, talking to a close friend about what’s making me nervous can be very comforting.
2. Part 2: Long Turn
Cue Card:
Describe a situation when you felt nervous:
You should say:
- When it happened
- What caused you to feel nervous
- How you dealt with the situation
- And explain how you felt afterwards
Sample Answer:
One situation that comes to mind when I think about feeling nervous happened about three years ago. It was my first job interview after graduating from university. The interview was for a highly coveted position at a renowned multinational company. Given the stakes, it’s no wonder I was extremely nervous.
The anxiety set in the moment I walked into the interview room. I recall my palms being sweaty and my heart racing. To cope with my nerves, I tried to focus on breathing steadily and maintained a positive mindset, reminding myself that I had prepared thoroughly.
The interviewers were quite friendly, which helped me relax gradually. After answering a few questions, I began to find my rhythm and my confidence grew. In the end, I didn’t get the job, but the experience taught me a lot about managing stressful situations. Afterwards, I felt a mix of relief and contentment, knowing that I had done my best under pressure.
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Follow-up Questions:
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How do you think people can better prepare for nerve-wracking situations?
- Sample Answer: People can better prepare by practicing mindfulness and relaxation techniques. Preparation is also crucial; the more confident you are in your knowledge or skills, the less nervous you’ll be.
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Why is it important to overcome nervousness?
- Sample Answer: Overcoming nervousness is essential because it helps us perform better in various aspects of life, be it public speaking, job interviews, or even personal situations. It enables us to present our best selves and seize opportunities without hesitation.
3. Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In this section, the Examiner asks more abstract questions related to the topic discussed in Part 2, demanding deeper analysis and evaluation.
Examiner’s Questions and Sample Answers:
Question: Why do people often feel nervous in new situations?
Sample Answer: People tend to feel nervous in new situations due to the fear of the unknown and the uncertainty of potential outcomes. This lack of familiarity can trigger feelings of vulnerability and stress.
Question: How can schools and workplaces support individuals in overcoming nervousness?
Sample Answer: Schools and workplaces can support individuals by providing workshops on stress management and public speaking. Creating a supportive environment where people feel safe to express their concerns and practice new skills without fear of judgment is also crucial.
Question: In your opinion, what are the long-term effects of not addressing nervousness?
Sample Answer: Not addressing nervousness can have long-term effects such as diminished self-esteem, chronic stress, and missed opportunities. Over time, the constant state of anxiety might also lead to more severe mental health issues, including anxiety disorders.
4. Vocabulary and Structures for High Scores
To excel in the Speaking test, it’s essential to use a wide range of vocabulary and complex sentence structures. Here are some key words and phrases:
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Nervous /ˈnɜːrvəs/ (adj) – feeling worried or anxious.
- Example: She was nervous about her performance.
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Cope with /koʊp wɪð/ (v) – to manage or deal with.
- Example: He learned to cope with his anxiety by practicing mindfulness.
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Anxiety /æŋˈzaɪəti/ (n) – a feeling of worry, nervousness, or unease.
- Example: The upcoming exam filled him with anxiety.
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Steady breathing /ˈstedi ˈbriːðɪŋ/ (n) – controlled, even breaths.
- Example: Practicing steady breathing can help reduce stress.
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Overcome /ˌoʊvərˈkʌm/ (v) – to successfully deal with or control a problem or feeling.
- Example: She overcame her fear of public speaking with practice.
III. Lời Khuyên
To achieve a high band score in the IELTS Speaking test, here are some final tips:
- Practice regularly: Regular practice helps build fluency and confidence.
- Use a wide range of vocabulary: Avoid repetition and use synonyms.
- Stay calm and composed: It’s normal to feel nervous, but try to stay calm to think clearly.
- Seek feedback: Practice with a teacher or a speaking partner to get constructive feedback.
- Simulate exam conditions: Time yourself and simulate real test scenarios.
For more related topics, you can also read about a situation when you were scared, a time when you felt very happy, and a time when you worked with a difficult person.
By following these guidelines, you can improve your chances of succeeding in the IELTS Speaking exam and achieve the band score you aim for.