The ability to describe a complex mental calculation is a valuable skill that often appears in IELTS Speaking tests. This topic not only assesses your linguistic abilities but also your capacity to explain intricate processes clearly and concisely. Let’s explore how to excel in this speaking task and secure a high band score.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about mathematics and calculations. Here’s a sample question with a suggested response:
Examiner: “Do you enjoy doing mental calculations?”
Candidate (Band 8-9 response): “To be honest, I find mental calculations quite challenging yet rewarding. While I’m not a math whiz, I derive a sense of satisfaction from solving problems in my head, especially when I’m out and about without a calculator handy. It’s like a mental workout that keeps my brain sharp and agile.”
Describe a time when you completed a lengthy calculation without a calculator to improve your speaking skills and prepare for this type of question in your IELTS exam.
Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)
Here’s a sample cue card related to the topic:
Describe a time when you did a lengthy calculation without a calculator
You should say:
- What the calculation was about
- Why you had to do it without a calculator
- How you managed to complete it
- How you felt about doing this calculation
Sample Answer (Band 8-9)
“I’d like to share an experience from my university days when I had to perform a complex calculation without a calculator. It was during a pivotal moment in my final year physics exam.
The calculation revolved around determining the trajectory of a projectile, taking into account various factors such as initial velocity, angle of projection, and air resistance. It was a multi-step problem that required applying several formulas and crunching numbers mentally.
The reason I couldn’t use a calculator was simple – they weren’t allowed in this particular exam. The rationale behind this rule was to test our fundamental understanding of the concepts rather than our ability to punch numbers into a machine.
To manage this daunting task, I broke down the problem into smaller, more manageable chunks. I started by jotting down the key formulas and then methodically worked through each step, double-checking my calculations along the way. I used estimation techniques to ballpark some of the more complex calculations, which helped me verify that my final answer was in the right ballpark.
Completing this calculation left me feeling both exhausted and exhilarated. It was a true test of my mathematical skills and my ability to perform under pressure. The experience boosted my confidence in my analytical abilities and reinforced the importance of mastering fundamental concepts rather than relying solely on technology.
In retrospect, this experience was invaluable. It honed my problem-solving skills and taught me the importance of staying calm and focused when faced with complex challenges. It’s a skill that has served me well in various aspects of my life, both academic and professional.”
IELTS Speaking: Describing a Lengthy Calculation
Follow-up Questions
Examiner: “How do you think technology has affected people’s ability to do mental calculations?”
Candidate (Band 8-9 response): “In my opinion, the widespread use of technology has had a significant impact on people’s mental calculation abilities. While calculators and smartphones have made complex calculations more accessible and efficient, they’ve also led to a decline in mental math skills. People often rely heavily on these devices, even for simple calculations, which can atrophy their mental math muscles. However, it’s worth noting that technology has also opened up new avenues for learning and practicing mental math through apps and online platforms, providing a counterbalance to this trend.”
Examiner: “Do you think it’s important for children to learn mental calculation skills in the digital age?”
Candidate (Band 8-9 response): “Absolutely. I believe mental calculation skills remain crucial in the digital age. These skills foster critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and number sense, which are fundamental to many aspects of life and various professions. Moreover, mental math enhances cognitive flexibility and builds confidence in handling numerical information. While technology is undoubtedly useful, having a solid foundation in mental calculation equips children with the ability to estimate, verify results, and think on their feet – skills that are invaluable in both personal and professional contexts.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Examiner: “How do you think education systems should balance teaching mental math skills with using technology?”
Candidate (Band 8-9 response): “I believe education systems should strike a delicate balance between fostering mental math skills and incorporating technology. It’s crucial to build a strong foundation in mental arithmetic and problem-solving strategies, especially in the early years of education. This lays the groundwork for understanding more complex mathematical concepts later on.
At the same time, we can’t ignore the reality of our increasingly digital world. Students should be taught how to leverage technology effectively for complex calculations and data analysis. The key is to ensure that technology enhances rather than replaces fundamental mathematical understanding.
A blended approach could be beneficial. For instance, schools could dedicate specific periods to mental math exercises, alongside lessons that integrate calculators and computers. This way, students develop both mental agility and technological proficiency.
Moreover, project-based learning that combines mental calculations with technological tools could help students understand when and how to apply each skill appropriately. This approach would prepare students for real-world scenarios where they might need to switch between mental calculations and technological aids.”
Education Balancing Mental Math and Technology
Examiner: “In what situations do you think mental calculation skills are still important in today’s world?”
Candidate (Band 8-9 response): “Mental calculation skills remain relevant and valuable in numerous situations in today’s world. In day-to-day life, these skills are indispensable for quick estimations while shopping, cooking, or managing personal finances. They allow for on-the-spot decision making without relying on external devices.
In professional settings, mental math skills can be a significant asset. For instance, in business negotiations or sales, the ability to quickly crunch numbers can give one a competitive edge. Similarly, in fields like engineering or architecture, mental calculations can help in rapid prototyping or troubleshooting scenarios.
Moreover, these skills are crucial in emergency situations where quick thinking is required, such as in healthcare or disaster response. They also play a vital role in developing overall numerical literacy, which is essential for critically evaluating statistical information in media and research.
Lastly, mental math skills contribute to cognitive health. They help keep the mind sharp and may even play a role in preventing cognitive decline as we age. In essence, while technology has its place, mental calculation skills continue to be a valuable tool in navigating both personal and professional aspects of modern life.”
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
Pivotal moment (/ˈpɪv.ə.təl ˈməʊ.mənt/) – A crucial or decisive point in time
Example: “The exam was a pivotal moment in my academic career.”To revolve around (/rɪˈvɒlv əˈraʊnd/) – To be centered on or focused on
Example: “The project revolved around implementing new sustainability measures.”Rationale (/ræʃ.ənˈæl/) – The fundamental reasons or logical basis for something
Example: “The rationale behind the policy change was to improve efficiency.”To ballpark (/ˈbɔːl.pɑːk/) – To estimate or make an approximate calculation
Example: “I tried to ballpark the project costs before creating a detailed budget.”Exhilarated (/ɪɡˈzɪl.ə.reɪ.tɪd/) – Very happy and excited
Example: “After completing the marathon, I felt both exhausted and exhilarated.”To hone (/həʊn/) – To refine or perfect, especially a skill
Example: “Regular practice helps to hone your public speaking skills.”Atrophy (/ˈæt.rə.fi/) – To waste away or deteriorate due to disuse
Example: “Without regular exercise, muscles can atrophy.”To foster (/ˈfɒs.tər/) – To encourage the development of something
Example: “The new curriculum aims to foster critical thinking skills.”
Mental Math Skills in the Modern World
Examiner’s Advice
To excel in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when describing complex processes like mental calculations:
Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. Use a variety of sentence structures and advanced vocabulary to demonstrate your language proficiency.
Structure your response logically, using clear transitions between ideas.
Use specific examples to illustrate your points and make your description more vivid and engaging.
Demonstrate critical thinking by discussing both the challenges and benefits of the experience you’re describing.
Maintain fluency by speaking at a natural pace, using appropriate pauses, and avoiding long hesitations.
Show awareness of context by relating your personal experience to broader themes or societal trends.
Engage with the examiner’s questions thoughtfully, providing detailed and relevant responses.
Remember, the key to a high score is not just in what you say, but how you say it. Confidence, clarity, and the ability to express complex ideas effectively are crucial elements of a successful IELTS Speaking performance.