In the IELTS Speaking Test, candidates are assessed on their ability to communicate effectively in English. The test is divided into three parts: Part 1 (Introduction and Interview), Part 2 (Long Turn), and Part 3 (Two-way Discussion). As an IELTS Speaking Examiner, I look for fluency and coherence, lexical resource, grammatical range and accuracy, and pronunciation. One frequently asked topic is “Describe a time when you felt inspired.” This topic not only tests your ability to narrate an experience but also your capacity to reflect on its significance.
II. Main Content
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner will ask you general questions about yourself and a range of familiar topics, such as your home, family, work, studies, and interests.
Example Question:
- Can you describe a hobby that inspires you?
Suggested Answer:
“Absolutely! One hobby that truly inspires me is painting. Every time I stand in front of a blank canvas, I feel a surge of creativity and freedom. The process itself is incredibly therapeutic and allows me to express my emotions in a way words cannot.”
Part 2: Long Turn
In Part 2, you will be given a cue card with a topic and asked to speak about it for up to 2 minutes. You will have one minute to prepare.
Cue Card Example:
- Describe a time when you felt inspired.
- When and where did it happen?
- Who or what inspired you?
- How did it affect you?
- How do you feel about it now?
Suggested Answer:
“I vividly recall a time when I felt extraordinarily inspired. It was during a university lecture, roughly three years ago, on the subject of environmental sustainability. The speaker was a renowned environmental activist, Dr. Jane Goodall. Her passion and dedication to wildlife conservation were contagious. Her stories of groundbreaking research and tireless efforts in saving endangered species struck a chord deep within me. As a result, I decided to volunteer at a local animal shelter, which has fundamentally changed my perspective on environmental issues. Even today, I carry that inspiration with me, striving to make more eco-friendly choices and encouraging others to do the same.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In this advanced section, you will discuss more abstract ideas related to the topic introduced in Part 2.
Example Questions and Suggested Answers:
-
How can inspiration impact someone’s life decisions?
“Inspiration plays a crucial role in shaping our life decisions. It ignites a sense of purpose and can steer us towards a particular career path or cause. For example, someone inspired by stories of social justice might pursue a career in law or human rights advocacy.” -
Do you think schools should focus on inspiring students or merely teaching them skills?
“I believe schools should strike a balance. While imparting essential skills is critical, equally important is the ability to inspire students. Inspiration can fuel their passion, making learning more meaningful and engaging. It encourages students to explore beyond textbooks and develop a love for lifelong learning.”
III. Vocabulary and Structures to Impress
Key Vocabulary:
- Inspired (adj) /ɪnˈspaɪərd/: motivated by a particular feeling or idea.
- E.g., “I felt incredibly inspired after hearing the speech.”
- Vividly (adv) /ˈvɪvɪdli/: in a way that produces powerful feelings or strong, clear images in the mind.
- E.g., “I vividly remember the moment I decided to become a teacher.”
- Fundamentally (adv) /ˌfʌndəˈmentəli/: in a way that affects the basic nature of something.
- E.g., “The experience fundamentally changed my attitude towards volunteering.”
Useful Phrases:
- A surge of creativity: A sudden intense feeling of creativity.
- E.g., “Every time I paint, I feel a surge of creativity.”
- Struck a chord deep within me: To evoke a strong emotional response.
- E.g., “Her speech struck a chord deep within me.”
- Ignites a sense of purpose: To inspire and motivate someone to follow a particular path.
- E.g., “The documentary ignited a sense of purpose in me to help the environment.”
IV. Advice for Preparation
To excel in the IELTS Speaking Test, practice consistently. Record yourself speaking on various topics and seek feedback. Expand your vocabulary and familiarize yourself with a range of topics by reading widely. Stay calm during the test, and remember that the examiner is interested in how well you can communicate your ideas clearly and accurately.
By incorporating these strategies and practicing regularly, you can significantly enhance your speaking skills and perform confidently on the IELTS Speaking Test.
For more related topics and practice, check out Describe a time when you had to challenge a norm and Describe a time when you were influenced by social media.
This comprehensive guide should help you in your preparation for the IELTS Speaking Test. Best of luck!