Discussing academic struggles is a common topic in IELTS Speaking tests, particularly when candidates are asked to describe a subject they found difficult in school. This theme allows examiners to assess your ability to articulate past experiences, express emotions, and reflect on personal growth. Given its relevance to most test-takers’ experiences, it’s likely to remain a popular topic in future IELTS exams.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about your school experiences. Here’s a sample question with a suggested answer:
Question: “What was your favorite subject in school?”
Answer (Band 7-8):
“My favorite subject in school was definitely Biology. I was always fascinated by how living organisms function and interact with their environment. The practical experiments we conducted in the lab were particularly enjoyable, as they allowed me to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios. Moreover, learning about the human body and various ecosystems sparked my curiosity and motivated me to pursue further studies in this field.”
Biology lab experiment for IELTS Speaking
Part 2: Long Turn
Cue Card:
Describe A Subject You Struggled With At School
You should say:
- What the subject was
- Why you found it difficult
- How you tried to improve in this subject
- How you feel about this subject now
Sample Answer (Band 6-7):
“The subject I really struggled with in school was Physics. I found it challenging because it involved a lot of complex mathematical calculations and abstract concepts that were hard for me to visualize. The formulas and equations often seemed like a foreign language to me, and I had trouble connecting them to real-world applications.
To improve in Physics, I tried several strategies. First, I started attending extra tutorial sessions after school, where the teacher would explain concepts in more detail and at a slower pace. I also formed a study group with some classmates who were better at Physics, hoping that their explanations might help me understand the subject better. Additionally, I began watching online video tutorials and using interactive simulations to help visualize the concepts.
Despite my efforts, I still found Physics quite difficult throughout my school years. However, now that I’m no longer studying it, I actually have a newfound appreciation for the subject. I can see how important it is in understanding how the world works, and I respect those who excel in it. While I may not have become an expert, I’m proud of the effort I put into trying to improve my understanding of such a challenging subject.”
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“The subject that posed a significant challenge for me during my academic years was undoubtedly Physics. The complexity of this discipline stemmed from its heavy reliance on abstract mathematical concepts and the need to visualize phenomena that often defy everyday observation. The intricate interplay between various laws and principles, coupled with the necessity to apply mathematical formulas to solve real-world problems, initially left me feeling overwhelmed and somewhat discouraged.
Determined to overcome this hurdle, I embarked on a multi-faceted approach to improve my understanding and performance in Physics. Firstly, I sought out additional support from my teacher, attending extra tutorial sessions where concepts were broken down and explained in greater detail. This one-on-one interaction proved invaluable in clarifying misconceptions and filling gaps in my knowledge. Secondly, I initiated a peer study group, collaborating with classmates who excelled in the subject. This collaborative learning environment allowed for dynamic discussions and alternative explanations that often resonated more effectively than traditional textbook descriptions.
Furthermore, I leveraged technology to enhance my learning experience. I immersed myself in online educational platforms, watching video tutorials that offered visual representations of complex phenomena. Interactive simulations and virtual labs became integral to my study routine, allowing me to manipulate variables and observe outcomes in a risk-free environment. This hands-on approach significantly improved my ability to grasp abstract concepts and apply theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios.
Reflecting on my journey with Physics, I now hold a profound appreciation for the subject. While it may not have become my strongest academic area, the process of grappling with its challenges has instilled in me a resilience and problem-solving mindset that extends far beyond the classroom. I’ve come to recognize the elegance of physical laws in explaining natural phenomena and their crucial role in technological advancements. This newfound perspective has transformed my initial struggle into a source of intellectual curiosity, and I find myself more engaged with scientific news and discoveries related to Physics. The experience has taught me that with perseverance and the right approach, even the most daunting subjects can become accessible and even fascinating.”
Follow-up questions:
- How did your struggle with this subject affect your overall academic performance?
Answer (Band 7-8):
“My difficulties with Physics certainly had an impact on my overall academic performance, but it wasn’t as detrimental as I initially feared. While my grades in Physics were lower compared to other subjects, I managed to maintain a good average by excelling in areas I was stronger in, such as languages and biology. The experience taught me the importance of time management and prioritization. I learned to allocate more study time to Physics while ensuring I didn’t neglect my other subjects. Additionally, the struggle enhanced my problem-solving skills and perseverance, which positively influenced my approach to other academic challenges.”
- Do you think schools should change how they teach difficult subjects like Physics?
Answer (Band 8-9):
“I believe there’s definitely room for improvement in how challenging subjects like Physics are taught in schools. The traditional lecture-based approach often falls short in engaging students and helping them grasp complex concepts. Schools could benefit from adopting more interactive and experiential teaching methods. For instance, incorporating more hands-on experiments, real-world applications, and technology-aided visualizations could make abstract concepts more tangible and relatable.
Moreover, I think there should be a greater emphasis on differentiated instruction to cater to various learning styles and paces. This could involve offering additional support for struggling students, providing advanced materials for those who excel, and using diverse assessment methods beyond traditional exams. Collaborative learning environments, such as group projects and peer tutoring, could also foster a more supportive and engaging classroom atmosphere.
Interdisciplinary approaches that highlight the connections between Physics and other subjects like mathematics, engineering, and even art could help students see the broader relevance and applications of what they’re learning. Ultimately, the goal should be to cultivate curiosity and critical thinking skills rather than mere memorization of formulas and facts. By making these changes, schools could potentially transform challenging subjects like Physics from sources of frustration into catalysts for intellectual growth and innovation.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Examiner: “Do you think it’s important for students to study subjects they find difficult?”
Answer (Band 7-8):
“Yes, I believe it’s crucial for students to engage with subjects they find challenging. Tackling difficult subjects builds resilience and problem-solving skills that are valuable in all areas of life. It also helps students develop a growth mindset, teaching them that abilities can be developed through dedication and hard work. Moreover, struggling with a subject often leads to a deeper understanding once the concepts are grasped, which can be very rewarding. However, it’s important to balance this with adequate support and resources to prevent students from becoming overwhelmed or discouraged.”
Answer (Band 8-9):
“I firmly believe that studying challenging subjects is an essential component of a well-rounded education. Engaging with difficult material not only expands one’s intellectual horizons but also fosters crucial life skills. When students grapple with complex concepts, they develop perseverance, critical thinking abilities, and innovative problem-solving techniques that extend far beyond the classroom.
Moreover, the process of overcoming academic challenges cultivates a growth mindset, which is invaluable in both personal and professional spheres. Students learn that intelligence and ability are not fixed traits but can be developed through effort, good strategies, and input from others. This realization can significantly boost self-confidence and motivation across all areas of study and life.
However, it’s crucial to strike a balance. While pushing boundaries is important, it should be done in a supportive environment that prevents frustration from overshadowing the learning process. This might involve providing additional resources, personalized guidance, or alternative teaching methods to ensure that all students have the opportunity to succeed.
Ultimately, the skills and attitudes developed through tackling difficult subjects – resilience, adaptability, and a thirst for knowledge – are precisely what prepare students for the complexities of the real world and the challenges of lifelong learning.”
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
To grapple with /ˈɡræpl wɪð/ (phrasal verb): to struggle or contend with.
Example: “I had to grapple with complex mathematical formulas in my Physics class.”Abstract /ˈæbstrækt/ (adjective): existing in thought or as an idea but not having a physical or concrete existence.
Example: “The abstract concepts in quantum physics were particularly challenging for me to understand.”To leverage /ˈlevərɪdʒ/ (verb): to use something to maximum advantage.
Example: “I leveraged online resources to supplement my classroom learning in Physics.”Resilience /rɪˈzɪliəns/ (noun): the capacity to recover quickly from difficulties; toughness.
Example: “Struggling with Physics helped me develop resilience in the face of academic challenges.”Interdisciplinary /ˌɪntərdɪsəˈplɪnəri/ (adjective): relating to more than one branch of knowledge.
Example: “An interdisciplinary approach to teaching Physics, connecting it with other subjects, might make it more accessible to students.”To cultivate /ˈkʌltɪveɪt/ (verb): to develop or acquire a quality, sentiment, or skill.
Example: “Studying difficult subjects helps cultivate problem-solving skills and perseverance.”
Examiner’s Advice
To excel in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when discussing challenging subjects:
- Use a variety of vocabulary and complex sentence structures to demonstrate your language proficiency.
- Provide specific examples and personal experiences to support your points.
- Show reflection and critical thinking by discussing how your experiences have shaped your current perspective.
- Practice expressing your thoughts fluently and coherently, even on topics you find difficult.
- Develop your ideas fully, providing reasons and examples for your opinions.
Remember, the key to success is not just in knowing the language, but in using it effectively to communicate your thoughts and experiences.
For more practice on describing personal experiences, you might want to describe a challenging experience that changed your life. This can help you develop the skills needed to discuss difficult subjects in a more engaging and reflective manner.
