IELTS Speaking examiners often ask candidates to describe a skill they have recently learned. This topic allows test-takers to showcase their ability to talk about personal experiences and demonstrate their language proficiency. Let’s explore how to effectively answer questions related to this topic and achieve a high score in your IELTS Speaking test.
Describe a challenging experience that you handled well can be similar to describing a recently learned skill, as both topics require you to reflect on personal growth and overcoming obstacles. Let’s dive into the specific parts of the IELTS Speaking test and how to approach this topic.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about skills and learning. Here are some possible questions and sample answers:
Examiner: Do you enjoy learning new skills?
Band 6-7 Answer: Yes, I do. I find it exciting to learn new things and improve myself. It’s a great way to stay motivated and keep my mind active.
Band 8-9 Answer: Absolutely! I’m passionate about continuous self-improvement and find the process of acquiring new skills both intellectually stimulating and personally rewarding. It’s not just about the end result, but also the journey of discovery and growth that comes with learning something new.
Part 2: Long Turn
Here’s a sample cue card for this topic:
Describe A Skill You Have Recently Learned
You should say:
- What the skill is
- How you learned it
- Why you decided to learn it
- And explain how you feel about learning this new skillSample Answer (Band 8-9)
I’d like to talk about a skill I’ve recently acquired, which is digital illustration using graphic design software. This is a skill I’ve been eager to develop for quite some time, given its relevance in today’s digital age.
I learned this skill primarily through a combination of online courses and hands-on practice. I enrolled in a comprehensive course on a popular e-learning platform, which covered everything from the basics of digital art to advanced techniques in illustration. The course was structured systematically, starting with an introduction to the software interface and gradually progressing to more complex projects.
My decision to learn digital illustration stemmed from both personal interest and professional considerations. As someone with a background in traditional art, I was intrigued by the possibilities that digital mediums offer. Moreover, I recognized the growing demand for digital artists in various industries, from advertising to game design, which made this skill particularly valuable from a career perspective.
Learning this new skill has been an incredibly fulfilling experience. It’s opened up a whole new world of creative possibilities for me. I find myself constantly amazed by the versatility of digital tools and how they allow me to bring my ideas to life in ways I never thought possible. While there was certainly a learning curve, particularly in mastering the software, the process has been thoroughly enjoyable.
What I appreciate most about this skill is how it has enhanced my ability to express myself visually. It’s not just about creating pretty pictures; it’s about communicating ideas and emotions through visual storytelling. This aspect of digital illustration has been particularly rewarding and has given me a new perspective on art and design.
In conclusion, learning digital illustration has been a transformative experience that has not only expanded my skill set but also broadened my horizons as an artist and a professional. It’s a skill I’m excited to continue developing and applying in various aspects of my life and work.
Follow-up Questions
Examiner: How long did it take you to become proficient in digital illustration?
Band 6-7 Answer: It took me several months of regular practice to feel comfortable with digital illustration. I spent about an hour each day working on different projects and experimenting with the software.
Band 8-9 Answer: Achieving proficiency in digital illustration was a gradual process that spanned approximately six months of dedicated learning and practice. I adopted a structured approach, allocating at least two hours daily to hone my skills. This involved not only completing course modules but also undertaking personal projects to apply what I had learned. I found that consistent practice and pushing my boundaries with increasingly complex designs were key to my rapid progress.
Examiner: Do you think digital skills are becoming more important in today’s world?
Band 6-7 Answer: Yes, I believe digital skills are very important nowadays. Many jobs require some level of digital knowledge, and it’s becoming essential in our daily lives too.
Band 8-9 Answer: Absolutely, the increasing digitalization of virtually every sector has made digital skills not just important, but indispensable in today’s world. We’re witnessing a paradigm shift where traditional roles are being redefined by technology. Digital literacy is no longer a nice-to-have but a fundamental requirement for professional success and even effective participation in society. Moreover, the rapid pace of technological advancement means that continuous learning and adaptation of digital skills is necessary to remain relevant in both personal and professional spheres.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Examiner: How do you think the way people learn new skills has changed in recent years?
Band 6-7 Answer: I think people now learn skills differently because of technology. We can use the internet to find information and take online courses, which wasn’t possible before. It’s easier to learn at our own pace and from home.
Band 8-9 Answer: The landscape of skill acquisition has undergone a significant transformation in recent years, primarily driven by technological advancements. The proliferation of online learning platforms has democratized education, making a vast array of skills accessible to anyone with an internet connection. This shift has led to a more self-directed and flexible approach to learning, allowing individuals to tailor their education to their specific needs and schedules.
Moreover, the rise of interactive and immersive learning technologies, such as virtual reality and AI-powered tutoring systems, has revolutionized the learning experience. These tools provide hands-on practice and instant feedback, enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of skill acquisition. Additionally, the growing emphasis on micro-learning and bite-sized content caters to our increasingly busy lifestyles, enabling people to learn in short bursts throughout the day.
Another notable change is the increased focus on peer-to-peer learning and community-based skill sharing. Social media and specialized forums have created spaces for learners to connect, share experiences, and learn from each other, fostering a more collaborative learning environment.
Describe an online video you watched that taught you something new is closely related to this topic, as it highlights the importance of digital platforms in modern learning methods.
Examiner: Do you think traditional methods of learning skills are still relevant?
Band 6-7 Answer: Yes, I believe traditional methods are still important. Some skills, like playing a musical instrument or cooking, are better learned in person. Also, not everyone has access to technology, so traditional methods are still necessary.
Band 8-9 Answer: While digital learning has undoubtedly revolutionized skill acquisition, traditional methods of learning still hold significant relevance in today’s educational landscape. These time-tested approaches offer unique benefits that complement and, in some cases, surpass modern methods.
Firstly, traditional learning often involves face-to-face interaction, which facilitates immediate feedback and personalized guidance. This is particularly crucial for skills that require nuanced understanding or physical demonstrations, such as fine arts, craftsmanship, or certain medical procedures. The ability to observe an expert in person and receive real-time corrections is invaluable in these fields.
Secondly, traditional methods often emphasize foundational knowledge and critical thinking skills that are essential for deep understanding. The rigorous approach of traditional academic settings, with their focus on comprehensive study and analysis, helps develop a solid theoretical base that is often necessary for advanced skill development.
Moreover, traditional learning environments foster important soft skills such as interpersonal communication, teamwork, and time management. These skills, while not the primary focus of the learning, are crucial for professional success and personal development.
It’s also worth noting that traditional methods are often more inclusive, especially in regions where access to technology is limited. They ensure that education and skill development remain accessible to a wider population.
In conclusion, while modern methods offer unprecedented access and flexibility, traditional learning approaches continue to play a vital role in comprehensive skill development. The ideal approach often involves a blended methodology, leveraging the strengths of both traditional and modern learning techniques to provide a well-rounded educational experience.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
To elevate your IELTS Speaking performance, incorporate these sophisticated terms and expressions:
-
Acquire /əˈkwaɪər/ (verb): To gain or obtain something.
Example: “I’m eager to acquire new skills that will enhance my career prospects.” -
Proficiency /prəˈfɪʃənsi/ (noun): A high degree of skill or expertise.
Example: “Achieving proficiency in a new language requires consistent practice and immersion.” -
Paradigm shift /ˈpærədaɪm ʃɪft/ (noun phrase): A fundamental change in approach or underlying assumptions.
Example: “The rise of online learning has caused a paradigm shift in education.” -
Indispensable /ˌɪndɪˈspensəbl/ (adjective): Absolutely necessary or essential.
Example: “In today’s digital age, computer literacy has become an indispensable skill.” -
Self-directed /ˌself daɪˈrektɪd/ (adjective): Guided by or originating from oneself rather than others.
Example: “Online courses promote self-directed learning, allowing students to progress at their own pace.”
Describe a skill that you can teach other people is another topic where you can effectively use this vocabulary to demonstrate your language proficiency.
Examiner’s Advice
To excel in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when describing a recently learned skill:
- Structure your answer clearly, addressing all parts of the question.
- Use a variety of vocabulary and grammatical structures to showcase your language proficiency.
- Provide specific examples and personal experiences to make your answer more engaging and authentic.
- Practice speaking on various topics regularly to improve fluency and confidence.
- Listen carefully to the examiner’s questions and ask for clarification if needed.
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Speaking is not just about what you say, but how you say it. Aim for clarity, fluency, and confidence in your delivery.
By following these guidelines and incorporating sophisticated vocabulary and structures, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle any question about recently learned skills in your IELTS Speaking test. Remember, describe a new development in your country could also be an opportunity to discuss new skills that are becoming important in your society. Good luck with your preparation!