The IELTS Speaking test comprises three parts, each designed to evaluate different aspects of your speaking abilities: fluency, coherence, lexical resource, grammatical range, accuracy, and pronunciation. One typical question you might encounter is “Describe a time when you fixed something.” This guide will provide model answers and detailed analysis to help you score high.
Exam Format Breakdown
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, the examiner asks general questions to get to know you better. Here are some possible questions related to fixing something:
- Do you like fixing things in your home?
- Have you ever fixed a broken appliance?
Model Answer for Part 1
Question: Do you like fixing things in your home?
Answer:
Yes, I thoroughly enjoy fixing things at home. There’s something incredibly satisfying about diagnosing a problem and finding a solution. It also helps save money and prolong the life of the items I own.
Key Phrases:
- Thoroughly enjoy
- Incredibly satisfying
- Diagnosing a problem
Part 2: Long Turn
In Part 2, you will be given a cue card with a specific topic. You’ll have one minute to prepare and then you need to speak for 1-2 minutes.
Cue Card:
Describe a time when you fixed something.
- What it was
- How you fixed it
- How you felt after fixing it
- Why it was important
Model Answer:
One time, I had to fix my laptop, which had suddenly stopped charging. It turned out the charging port was faulty. I watched a few tutorial videos and realized I needed a soldering iron to fix the connection. Initially, I felt a bit intimidated, but I was determined to get it done. After carefully dismantling my laptop, I managed to solder the loose connections. When I plugged it in and saw the charging light come back on, I felt a strong sense of accomplishment. It was important because I needed my laptop for work and fixing it saved me a lot of money on repairs.
Follow-up Questions:
- What did you learn from this experience?
- Would you consider fixing similar issues in the future?
Model Answers:
- I learned that patience and perseverance are crucial when tackling technical issues. I also gained a better understanding of how electronics work.
- Absolutely, having successfully fixed my laptop, I feel more confident to take on similar challenges in the future.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In Part 3, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to Part 2, evaluating your ability to discuss complex topics.
Example Questions for Part 3:
- How important are practical skills like fixing things in today’s world?
- Do you think schools should teach more practical skills?
Model Answers for Part 3
Question: How important are practical skills like fixing things in today’s world?
Answer:
In today’s world, practical skills like fixing things are extremely important, especially in an era of consumerism and disposable goods. These skills not only help in reducing waste but also encourage a more sustainable way of living. Moreover, they can be very empowering for individuals, giving them a sense of self-reliance and resourcefulness.
Question: Do you think schools should teach more practical skills?
Answer:
Yes, schools should definitely incorporate more practical skills into their curriculums. Such skills prepare students for real-life situations and can also complement theoretical learning. For instance, understanding basic home repairs can save money and equip students with valuable life skills that are often underestimated.
Useful Vocabulary and Structures to Score High
Key Vocabulary
- Accomplishment (/əˈkʌmplɪʃmənt/): A sense of completing something successfully.
- Resourcefulness (/rɪˈsɔːsflnəs/): The ability to find quick and clever ways to overcome difficulties.
- Perseverance (/ˌpɜːrsɪˈvɪərəns/): Steadfastness in doing something despite difficulty.
- Empower (/ɪmˈpaʊər/): To give someone the authority or power to do something.
Example Usage:
- “Fixing my laptop gave me a profound sense of accomplishment.”
- “Her resourcefulness in handling the problem was impressive.”
- “It was her perseverance that got her through the challenge.”
- “Learning to fix things can empower individuals in many ways.”
Tips for High Scores
- Practice regularly: Consistent speaking practice helps improve fluency.
- Learn from feedback: Use feedback to refine your answers.
- Use varied vocabulary: A rich lexical resource can boost your score.
- Stay calm: Confidence can greatly improve your performance.
By following these tips and carefully studying the model answers and structures provided, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle the speaking section of the IELTS with confidence.
The IELTS Speaking Test is a challenge, but with preparation and practice, you can achieve excellent scores. Good luck!