Mastering IELTS Speaking: How to Effectively Describe a Skill You’ve Been Practicing Recently

The topic of describing a recently practiced skill is a common one in IELTS Speaking tests. It allows examiners to assess candidates’ ability to articulate personal experiences and reflect on their learning process. This theme has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to remain relevant in future tests due to its versatility and relevance to everyday life.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In this section, the examiner may ask questions to warm up the conversation and get you talking about skills and learning. Here are some potential questions:

1. Do you enjoy learning new skills?
2. What’s a skill you’ve recently started learning?
3. How do you usually go about learning a new skill?

Let’s focus on question 2 and provide a sample answer:

Examiner: What’s a skill you’ve recently started learning?

Candidate (Band 7-8 response): Well, I’ve recently taken up photography as a hobby. I’ve always been fascinated by the way professional photographers capture moments, so I decided to give it a try myself. I’ve been dedicating a few hours each week to learning about composition, lighting, and editing techniques. It’s been quite challenging at times, but I’m finding it incredibly rewarding as I see my skills improve.

describe a recent holiday you had

Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)

Now, let’s move on to the cue card task. Here’s a sample cue card related to our topic:

Describe a skill you have been practicing recently

You should say:
- What the skill is
- How long you have been practicing it
- Why you decided to learn this skill
- And explain how you feel about learning this skill

Sample Answer (Band 8-9)

I’d like to talk about a skill I’ve been honing recently, which is public speaking. I’ve been actively working on this for about six months now, and it’s been quite an enlightening journey.

I decided to embark on this skill development when I realized that my career progression was being hindered by my reluctance to speak up in meetings or give presentations. It dawned on me that being articulate and confident in front of an audience could open up numerous opportunities, both professionally and personally.

To improve my abilities, I joined a local Toastmasters club, where I’ve been practicing regularly. We meet twice a month, and each session provides an opportunity to deliver speeches, receive constructive feedback, and learn from others. Additionally, I’ve been watching TED Talks, analyzing the speakers’ techniques, and incorporating them into my own style.

The learning process has been both challenging and exhilarating. Initially, I felt quite apprehensive about speaking in front of others, but as I’ve practiced more, I’ve noticed a significant boost in my confidence. There’s a real sense of accomplishment when I manage to engage an audience or convey a message effectively.

What I find particularly rewarding about developing this skill is its versatility. The techniques I’m learning aren’t just applicable to formal presentations; they’re helping me communicate more effectively in everyday situations too. I’m becoming more articulate in expressing my ideas and more attuned to my audience’s reactions.

Overall, I’m thoroughly enjoying the process of honing this skill. It’s opening up new avenues for personal growth and professional development that I hadn’t anticipated. I’m excited to see how much further I can progress and how I can leverage this skill in various aspects of my life.

Follow-up Questions

Examiner: How do you plan to continue improving this skill?

Candidate (Band 8-9): To further enhance my public speaking abilities, I’ve set several goals for myself. Firstly, I plan to seek out more challenging speaking opportunities, such as participating in local speech competitions or volunteering to give presentations at work. Additionally, I’m considering enrolling in an advanced course on rhetoric and persuasion to deepen my understanding of effective communication techniques. I also believe in the power of consistent practice, so I’ve committed to rehearsing speeches in front of a camera at least twice a week, allowing me to critically analyze my performance and pinpoint areas for improvement.

describe a conversation that made you think differently

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

In this section, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic of skills and learning.

Examiner: Do you think the education system in your country adequately prepares students with practical skills for the job market?

Candidate (Band 7-8 response): That’s an intriguing question. In my opinion, our education system has both strengths and weaknesses when it comes to preparing students for the job market. On the positive side, it provides a solid foundation in academic subjects and critical thinking skills, which are undoubtedly valuable in many professions. However, I believe there’s room for improvement in terms of practical, hands-on training.

Many graduates find themselves lacking in essential workplace skills such as effective communication, project management, or digital literacy. I think our education system could benefit from incorporating more internships, work-based learning experiences, and courses that focus on soft skills development. This would help bridge the gap between academic knowledge and practical application, making students more job-ready upon graduation.

Examiner: How do you think the rise of online learning platforms has affected skill acquisition?

Candidate (Band 8-9 response): The proliferation of online learning platforms has revolutionized skill acquisition in numerous ways. Firstly, it has democratized access to education, allowing people from diverse backgrounds and geographical locations to learn new skills without the constraints of traditional educational institutions. This accessibility has opened up opportunities for lifelong learning and career transitions that were previously much more challenging.

Moreover, online platforms offer unprecedented flexibility in terms of learning pace and schedule, enabling individuals to tailor their learning experience to their personal needs and commitments. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for working professionals or those with family responsibilities.

However, it’s important to acknowledge that online learning also presents challenges. The lack of face-to-face interaction can make it difficult for some learners to stay motivated or to gain practical experience in certain fields. Additionally, the abundance of options can be overwhelming, and learners may struggle to discern the quality and credibility of different courses.

Despite these challenges, I believe the positive impact of online learning platforms far outweighs the negatives. They have made continuous skill development more accessible and affordable, which is crucial in today’s rapidly evolving job market. As these platforms continue to evolve, incorporating more interactive elements and virtual reality technologies, I anticipate they will become even more effective in facilitating skill acquisition across a wide range of disciplines.

describe a family gathering you enjoyed

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

1. To embark on /ɪmˈbɑːrk ɒn/ (phrasal verb): To start or begin a course of action
   Example: I decided to embark on a new career in technology.

2. Articulate /ɑːˈtɪkjʊleɪt/ (adjective): Able to express thoughts and feelings easily and clearly
   Example: She’s known for being an articulate speaker who can explain complex ideas simply.

3. To hone /həʊn/ (verb): To refine or perfect, especially a skill
   Example: He spent years honing his craft as a writer.

4. Versatile /ˈvɜːsətaɪl/ (adjective): Able to adapt or be adapted to many different functions or activities
   Example: Learning a versatile skill like coding can open up many career opportunities.

5. To leverage /ˈliːvərɪdʒ/ (verb): To use something to maximum advantage
   Example: She leveraged her networking skills to secure a new job.

Person leveraging skills for career advancement

Tips from an Examiner

1. Practice regularly: Set aside time each day to practice speaking English, even if it’s just for 10-15 minutes.

2. Expand your vocabulary: Learn new words and phrases related to skills and learning, and use them in context.

3. Use personal examples: When describing your skill, provide specific details and anecdotes to make your answer more engaging and memorable.

4. Focus on fluency: While accuracy is important, don’t let fear of making mistakes hinder your speech. Aim for a natural, flowing conversation.

5. Listen actively: Pay close attention to the examiner’s questions and respond directly to what is asked.

describe a skill you recently developed

By following these strategies and incorporating the suggested vocabulary and structures, you’ll be well-prepared to discuss your recently practiced skill in the IELTS Speaking test. Remember, the key is to speak confidently and naturally while showcasing your language abilities.