The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about personal experiences and achievements. One common topic is describing a skill you’ve recently developed. This theme allows examiners to assess your ability to articulate personal growth and reflect on learning processes. Let’s explore how to excel in this speaking task, focusing on structure, vocabulary, and delivery techniques.
Describe a time when you taught something to a friend can be a related topic that helps you practice explaining processes and skills, which is valuable for this task as well.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, the examiner may ask general questions about skills and learning. Here’s a sample question with a suggested answer:
Examiner: “Do you enjoy learning new skills?”
Candidate (Band 8-9 response): “Absolutely. I find the process of acquiring new skills both challenging and rewarding. There’s something incredibly satisfying about pushing my boundaries and seeing tangible progress. Recently, I’ve been particularly enthusiastic about learning skills that enhance both my personal and professional life.”
Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)
Here’s a sample cue card for this topic:
Describe a skill you recently developed
You should say:
- What the skill is
- How you learned it
- Why you decided to learn it
- And explain how this skill has benefited you
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to talk about a skill I’ve recently developed, which is data visualization using Python.
As a marketing analyst, I frequently work with large datasets, and I realized that presenting this information in a visually appealing and easily digestible format was becoming increasingly important. This prompted me to delve into data visualization techniques.
I began my learning journey by enrolling in an online course offered by a renowned data science platform. The course was comprehensive, covering everything from basic plotting to advanced interactive visualizations. Alongside the structured lessons, I also spent countless hours practicing, experimenting with different libraries like Matplotlib and Seaborn, and working on real-world projects.
What motivated me to acquire this skill was the realization that in today’s data-driven world, the ability to tell compelling stories through data is invaluable. I wanted to enhance my professional toolkit and bring more value to my team and clients.
This skill has significantly benefited me in numerous ways. Professionally, I’m now able to create impactful presentations that clearly communicate complex data trends to stakeholders. This has led to more informed decision-making within my organization. On a personal level, it has boosted my confidence and opened up new career opportunities. I’ve even started a blog where I share data visualizations on various topics, which has been a fulfilling creative outlet.
In essence, developing this skill has not only made me more effective in my current role but has also broadened my horizons and given me a new way to explore and understand the world around me.”
Data visualization using Python for effective presentation
Examiner: “That’s interesting. How long did it take you to become proficient in this skill?”
Candidate (Band 8-9 response): “Developing proficiency in data visualization with Python was a gradual process. While I grasped the basics within a few weeks, attaining a level of expertise where I could create sophisticated, publication-quality visualizations took about six months of dedicated practice. I found that consistent daily engagement, even if just for an hour, was key to my progress. It’s a skill that I’m still refining and expanding as new libraries and techniques emerge in this rapidly evolving field.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Examiner: “In your opinion, what are the most important skills for success in today’s job market?”
Candidate (Band 8-9 response): “In today’s rapidly evolving job market, I believe several skills are crucial for success. Firstly, digital literacy is paramount. This goes beyond basic computer skills and includes proficiency in data analysis, understanding of AI and machine learning concepts, and the ability to adapt to new technologies quickly.
Secondly, critical thinking and problem-solving skills are increasingly valuable. With the abundance of information available, the ability to analyze, evaluate, and create innovative solutions is highly prized by employers.
Thirdly, emotional intelligence and strong communication skills are essential. As automation takes over more routine tasks, uniquely human skills like empathy, leadership, and the ability to collaborate effectively in diverse teams become more significant.
Lastly, I’d emphasize the importance of adaptability and continuous learning. The job market is constantly shifting, and the willingness and ability to upskill and reskill throughout one’s career is vital for long-term success.”
Describe a public facility that was recently renovated can be an interesting topic to practice discussing improvements and changes, which relates to skill development in a broader societal context.
Examiner: “How do you think the skills needed for success will change in the next decade?”
Candidate (Band 8-9 response): “I believe the skills landscape will undergo significant transformation in the coming decade. Firstly, as AI and automation continue to advance, there will likely be an increased emphasis on skills that complement these technologies rather than compete with them. This might include skills in AI ethics, human-AI collaboration, and the ability to leverage AI tools effectively in various professions.
Secondly, with the growing focus on sustainability and climate change, skills related to green technologies, sustainable business practices, and environmental management are likely to become increasingly valuable.
Thirdly, as remote work becomes more prevalent, skills in virtual collaboration, digital project management, and cross-cultural communication will become even more critical.
Lastly, I anticipate a rising demand for interdisciplinary skills. The ability to synthesize knowledge from multiple fields – for instance, combining biotechnology with data science, or psychology with user experience design – will be highly prized as innovation increasingly occurs at the intersection of different disciplines.
Overall, while technical skills will remain important, I believe the most successful individuals will be those who can adapt quickly, think creatively, and effectively navigate the complex, globalized, and technology-driven world of the future.”
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
Delve into (phrasal verb) /delv ˈɪntu/: To examine or investigate something thoroughly.
Example: “I decided to delve into the world of artificial intelligence to enhance my programming skills.”Comprehensive (adjective) /ˌkɒmprɪˈhensɪv/: Complete and including everything that is necessary.
Example: “The course offered a comprehensive overview of data analysis techniques.”Prompt (verb) /prɒmpt/: To cause or bring about an action or feeling.
Example: “The rapidly changing job market prompted me to learn new digital skills.”Invaluable (adjective) /ɪnˈvæljuəbl/: Extremely useful; indispensable.
Example: “The experience I gained from this project was invaluable to my career development.”Impactful (adjective) /ɪmˈpæktfl/: Having a major impact or effect.
Example: “His presentations were always impactful, clearly conveying complex information.”
Describe a time when you tried a new sport or activity can be a great way to practice discussing the process of learning and developing new skills in a different context.
Examiner’s Advice
To score high in the IELTS Speaking test when describing a recently developed skill:
- Structure your answer clearly, covering all points in the cue card.
- Use a wide range of vocabulary, including idiomatic expressions and topic-specific terms.
- Demonstrate fluency by speaking at a natural pace with minimal hesitation.
- Show flexibility by elaborating on your answers and connecting ideas coherently.
- Practice describing various skills and learning experiences to improve your ability to articulate personal growth.
Remember, the key to success is not just in having developed the skill, but in your ability to articulate your experience clearly and engagingly. Good luck with your IELTS preparation!
Describe an object you have owned for a long time can help you practice discussing long-term experiences and personal growth, which can be related to skill development over time.