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

The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about personal achievements and abilities. One common topic is describing a skill you are proud of. This theme frequently appears in Part 2 and Part 3 of the speaking test, making it crucial for test-takers to be well-prepared.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In Part 1, the examiner may ask general questions about your skills and abilities. Here’s an example question with a suggested answer:

Examiner: Do you have any special skills or talents?

Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“Yes, I’d say I have a knack for languages. I’m fluent in three languages besides my native tongue, and I’m currently working on mastering a fourth. It’s a skill I’m quite proud of as it allows me to connect with people from various cultures and backgrounds.”

Describe a time when you did something new for the first time can also be related to acquiring a new skill. Being able to articulate such experiences effectively can significantly boost your speaking score.

Part 2: Long Turn

Here’s a sample cue card for Part 2:

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

Sample Answer (Band 6-7):

“The skill I’d like to talk about is cooking. I started learning to cook when I was in university, about five years ago. At first, it was out of necessity because I was living away from home for the first time. I began by watching cooking videos online and trying simple recipes.

Over time, I became more interested in cooking and started experimenting with different cuisines. I’m proud of this skill because it allows me to be creative and make delicious meals for myself and others. It has also helped me save money and eat healthier.

This skill has been very useful in my life. It has made me more independent and confident. I can now host dinner parties for my friends, which is always enjoyable. Moreover, cooking has become a great way for me to relax after a long day at work.”

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):

“I’d like to elaborate on my skill in public speaking, which I’ve honed over the past decade. My journey began in high school when I reluctantly joined the debate club at my teacher’s insistence. Initially, I was terrified of speaking in front of an audience, but through consistent practice and constructive feedback, I gradually overcame my fear.

What makes me particularly proud of this skill is the personal growth it represents. Transforming from a shy, reserved individual to someone who can confidently address large crowds has been an incredibly rewarding experience. This skill has opened numerous doors for me, both professionally and personally.

In my professional life, proficiency in public speaking has enabled me to excel in presentations, lead team meetings, and even represent my company at industry conferences. On a personal level, it has boosted my self-esteem and allowed me to advocate effectively for causes I’m passionate about.

Moreover, this skill has taught me the invaluable lesson that with dedication and perseverance, one can overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles. It’s a constant reminder that stepping out of our comfort zones often leads to the most significant personal development.”

Confident public speaker addressing an audience

Follow-up questions:

1. How long did it take you to become proficient in this skill?
2. What challenges did you face while learning this skill?
3. Would you recommend others to learn this skill? Why or why not?

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

In Part 3, the examiner might ask more abstract questions related to skills and personal development. Here are some sample questions and answers:

Examiner: Do you think schools should focus more on teaching practical skills?

Sample answer (Band 6-7):
“Yes, I believe schools should teach more practical skills. Many students graduate without knowing how to manage their finances or cook basic meals. These are important life skills that everyone needs. However, schools should still teach academic subjects too, as they’re also important for future careers.”

Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I firmly believe that educational institutions should strike a balance between academic knowledge and practical skills. While traditional subjects form the foundation of intellectual growth, practical skills are equally crucial for navigating real-world challenges. Integrating life skills such as financial literacy, time management, and effective communication into the curriculum would significantly enhance students’ preparedness for adulthood. However, it’s imperative to maintain a holistic approach, ensuring that this integration doesn’t come at the expense of academic rigor. The ideal scenario would be a symbiotic relationship between theoretical knowledge and practical application, fostering well-rounded individuals capable of excelling in various life aspects.”

Examiner: How important do you think it is for people to continue learning new skills throughout their lives?

Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“I believe it’s incredibly important for people to continually acquire new skills throughout their lives. In today’s rapidly evolving world, staying stagnant in terms of skills and knowledge can lead to obsolescence, both personally and professionally. Lifelong learning not only enhances employability but also contributes to personal growth and mental well-being. It keeps the mind active, fosters adaptability, and can open up new opportunities that one might not have previously considered. Moreover, learning new skills can be a source of fulfillment and can help individuals remain relevant in an ever-changing global landscape.”

Describe a healthy habit you maintain is another topic that can be linked to continuous skill development, as maintaining good habits often requires learning and refining new skills.

Key Vocabulary and Phrases

To achieve a high score in IELTS Speaking, it’s crucial to use a range of sophisticated vocabulary and complex sentence structures. Here are some key terms and phrases that can help elevate your responses:

1. Hone (verb) /həʊn/ – to improve or perfect over time
   Example: “I’ve been honing my public speaking skills for years.”

2. Proficiency (noun) /prəˈfɪʃənsi/ – a high degree of skill or expertise
   Example: “Achieving proficiency in a new language takes time and dedication.”

3. Invaluable (adjective) /ɪnˈvæljuəbl/ – extremely useful or indispensable
   Example: “The experience I gained was invaluable to my professional development.”

4. Perseverance (noun) /ˌpɜːsɪˈvɪərəns/ – persistence in doing something despite difficulty
   Example: “Success often comes down to perseverance in the face of challenges.”

5. Advocate (verb) /ˈædvəkeɪt/ – to publicly support or recommend a particular cause
   Example: “My public speaking skills allow me to advocate effectively for environmental issues.”

Describe a time when you took on a new challenge can be an excellent opportunity to showcase these vocabulary items in context, demonstrating your language proficiency.

Diverse group engaged in lifelong learning

Examiner’s Advice

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

1. Practice regularly: Dedicate time each day to speaking English, focusing on describing your skills and experiences.

2. Use a variety of language: Incorporate idiomatic expressions, advanced vocabulary, and complex sentence structures in your responses.

3. Be specific: Provide concrete examples and details when describing your skill and its impact on your life.

4. Stay on topic: Ensure your answers directly address the question asked and the points mentioned in the cue card.

5. Speak fluently: Aim for smooth delivery with minimal hesitation. If you need time to think, use filler phrases naturally.

6. Show enthusiasm: When discussing a skill you’re proud of, let your passion and confidence shine through in your tone and body language.

7. Reflect on the skill’s broader impact: Discuss how the skill has affected various aspects of your life and potentially benefited others.

Describe a traditional event in your culture can be an excellent opportunity to practice these tips, as it allows you to showcase cultural knowledge alongside language skills.

Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is not just about having good English skills, but also about effectively communicating your thoughts and experiences. By following these guidelines and consistently practicing, you can significantly improve your performance and achieve a higher band score.

Describe a person who has a deep understanding of different cultures is another topic where you can apply these strategies, demonstrating your ability to discuss complex subjects with depth and nuance.