Mastering IELTS Speaking: How to Eloquently Describe a Skill You’re Proud Of

The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about personal skills and achievements. One common topic that frequently appears is describing a skill you are proud of. This subject allows candidates to showcase their language abilities while discussing something meaningful to them. Let’s explore how to effectively approach this topic and maximize your speaking score.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In the first part of the speaking test, the examiner may ask some general questions about skills and abilities. Here are some potential questions you might encounter:

1. What skills do you think are important in life?
2. Are there any skills you’d like to improve?
3. How do you usually learn new skills?

Let’s look at a sample answer for the first question:

Examiner: What skills do you think are important in life?

Candidate (Band 7-8 response): I believe there are several crucial skills that can greatly contribute to one’s success in life. Firstly, effective communication is paramount as it helps in building relationships and advancing in one’s career. Additionally, critical thinking and problem-solving skills are invaluable in navigating challenges both personally and professionally. Lastly, I’d say adaptability is increasingly vital in our rapidly changing world, allowing individuals to thrive in diverse situations.

Important life skills illustration

Part 2: Long Turn

For the second part, you’ll be given a cue card with a topic and some prompts. Here’s a sample cue card related to describing a skill you’re proud of:

Describe a skill that you are proud of
You should say:
- What the skill is
- How you learned it
- Why you are proud of this skill
- And explain how this skill has helped you in your life

Here’s a sample answer for Band 8-9:

I’d like to talk about my skill in public speaking, which I’m particularly proud of. Public speaking is the ability to effectively communicate ideas to an audience, and it’s a skill I’ve developed over several years.

I initially learned this skill through my involvement in the debate club during high school. We had regular practice sessions where we would research topics, construct arguments, and deliver speeches. This foundation was further strengthened when I joined Toastmasters International during university, which provided a supportive environment to hone my speaking abilities.

I’m proud of this skill for several reasons. Firstly, it’s something I’ve worked hard to improve, overcoming my initial nervousness and stage fright. Secondly, I’ve seen how it has positively impacted various aspects of my life, from academic presentations to job interviews. Lastly, it’s a skill that allows me to inspire and influence others, which I find incredibly rewarding.

This skill has been invaluable in my life. In my academic career, it helped me excel in presentations and group projects. Professionally, it’s given me the confidence to lead meetings and pitch ideas to clients. On a personal level, it’s improved my overall communication skills, making me more articulate and persuasive in everyday conversations.

In conclusion, my public speaking skill is something I’m truly proud of. It’s not just about standing in front of an audience, but about effectively conveying ideas and connecting with people. It’s a skill that continues to open doors and create opportunities in both my personal and professional life.

describe a memorable outdoor activity

Follow-up questions:

1. How long did it take you to become confident in public speaking?
2. Do you think public speaking is a skill that everyone should learn?

Sample answers:

Question 1 (Band 7-8 response): It took me approximately two years to feel truly confident in public speaking. The journey was gradual and required consistent practice. I remember feeling nervous for my first few speeches, but as I gained more experience and received constructive feedback, my confidence grew. Milestone moments, like successfully delivering a keynote speech at a university event, really boosted my self-assurance.

Question 2 (Band 8-9 response): Absolutely, I firmly believe that public speaking is an essential skill for everyone to develop. In today’s interconnected world, the ability to articulate ideas clearly and persuasively is invaluable across various aspects of life. Whether it’s presenting in a classroom, pitching ideas at work, or even expressing oneself in social situations, proficiency in public speaking can significantly enhance one’s personal and professional growth. Moreover, it fosters critical thinking and helps individuals become more confident and self-assured.

Public speaking skill development

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:

Examiner: How do you think technology has changed the way people learn new skills?

Candidate (Band 8-9 response): Technology has revolutionized skill acquisition in numerous ways. Firstly, the internet has made information more accessible than ever before, allowing people to learn at their own pace through online courses, tutorials, and webinars. Platforms like Coursera and Udemy have democratized education, making it possible for anyone with an internet connection to learn from experts worldwide.

Furthermore, technology has enabled more interactive and immersive learning experiences. Virtual reality simulations, for instance, can provide hands-on practice for skills ranging from surgical procedures to aircraft piloting, without the risks associated with real-world training. Additionally, artificial intelligence-powered apps can offer personalized learning paths, adapting to individual strengths and weaknesses.

However, it’s worth noting that while technology has expanded learning opportunities, it also requires individuals to develop digital literacy and self-discipline. The abundance of information can be overwhelming, and learners need to discern credible sources and maintain focus in an environment full of distractions.

In conclusion, I believe technology has dramatically enhanced our ability to acquire new skills, making learning more accessible, flexible, and tailored to individual needs. Yet, it also challenges us to be more discerning and self-motivated in our learning journey.

describe a project you completed that required teamwork

Examiner: Do you think traditional methods of learning skills are becoming obsolete?

Candidate (Band 7-8 response): While technology has certainly transformed learning, I don’t believe traditional methods are becoming obsolete. Instead, I think we’re seeing a blend of old and new approaches.

Face-to-face instruction still holds significant value, especially for skills that require physical demonstration or immediate feedback. Apprenticeships, for example, remain crucial in trades and crafts where hands-on experience is irreplaceable.

Moreover, traditional methods often foster important soft skills like interpersonal communication and teamwork, which can be challenging to develop solely through online platforms. Book learning and classroom discussions also promote critical thinking and debate in ways that digital methods might not fully replicate.

That being said, many traditional institutions are adapting to incorporate technological elements, creating a hybrid learning environment. This combination often provides the best of both worlds – the personal touch of traditional methods with the flexibility and resources of modern technology.

In essence, I believe traditional methods are evolving rather than becoming obsolete, and the most effective learning often comes from a judicious combination of both traditional and modern approaches.

describe a hobby you had in childhood

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

To elevate your speaking performance, incorporate these sophisticated words and phrases:

1. Paramount (/ˈpærəmaʊnt/) – adj. more important than anything else
   Example: Developing strong communication skills is paramount for success in many careers.

2. Invaluable (/ɪnˈvæljuəbl/) – adj. extremely useful; indispensable
   Example: The experience I gained through internships has been invaluable to my professional growth.

3. To hone (/həʊn/) – v. to refine or perfect over a period of time
   Example: I’ve spent years honing my writing skills through practice and feedback.

4. Articulate (/ɑːˈtɪkjuleɪt/) – adj. having or showing the ability to speak fluently and coherently
   Example: Her articulate presentation impressed the entire audience.

5. Proficiency (/prəˈfɪʃənsi/) – n. a high degree of skill; expertise
   Example: Achieving proficiency in a foreign language requires consistent practice and immersion.

describe a challenge you faced at work or school

IELTS Speaking tips infographic

Examiner’s Advice

To excel in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when describing a skill you’re proud of:

1. Prepare diverse examples: Have a range of skills you can discuss confidently, from professional abilities to personal talents.

2. Use the STAR method: When explaining how you developed a skill, use the Situation, Task, Action, Result approach to structure your response.

3. Showcase advanced vocabulary: Incorporate sophisticated words and phrases relevant to skill development and personal growth.

4. Demonstrate critical thinking: Don’t just describe the skill; analyze its importance and impact on your life.

5. Practice fluency: Aim for smooth delivery with minimal hesitations. Regular practice with a speaking partner can help achieve this.

6. Engage with the examiner: Show enthusiasm for the topic and maintain eye contact to demonstrate confidence and interpersonal skills.

By following these guidelines and incorporating the provided vocabulary and structures, you’ll be well-equipped to impress the examiner and achieve a high score in your IELTS Speaking test. Remember, the key is to sound natural and confident while showcasing your language abilities.