The IELTS Speaking Test is divided into three parts: Part 1 (Introduction and Interview), Part 2 (Long Turn), and Part 3 (Two-way Discussion). In evaluating candidates, IELTS Speaking Examiners focus on four key criteria: Fluency and Coherence, Lexical Resource, Grammatical Range and Accuracy, and Pronunciation.
Questions requiring candidates to describe times when they had to deliver bad news are quite common in IELTS Speaking Test. This requires them to demonstrate their capability to use rich language, structure their answers logically, and empathize with their audiences. Below is a comprehensive guide to help you master such questions, with detailed examples and tips.
Common Part 1 Questions and Suggested Answers
Common Questions in Part 1
- What is your favorite way to relax after a long day?
- Do you like to read the news?
- Have you ever had to give someone bad news?
Question Example and Suggested Answer
Question: Have you ever had to give someone bad news?
Suggested Answer:
“Yes, unfortunately, I have. I remember an incident when I had to inform my best friend about a scholarship application rejection. She had worked extremely hard and was hopeful about securing it. To deliver the news gently, I chose a quiet and private setting where we could talk without interruptions. I started by acknowledging her effort and expressing my admiration for her determination before revealing the outcome. I made sure to stay empathetic and supportive throughout the conversation, emphasizing her potential and encouraging her to apply again in the future.”
Part 2: Long Turn
Cue Card
Describe a time when you had to deliver bad news
You should say:
- Who you gave the news to
- What the news was
- How you felt before and after delivering the news
- Explain why it was important to deliver the news
Suggested Answer
“One significant moment when I had to deliver bad news was to my younger brother. The news was about our family cat, which he adored, passing away suddenly due to an illness. I knew this would be particularly hard for him as he is very sensitive and deeply attached to our pet.
Before breaking the news, I felt a mix of anxiety and sadness because I understood how devastated he would be. To deliver the news, I waited until we were at home, ensuring a comforting environment. I started the conversation by showing appreciation for how well he took care of the cat, then gently explained that despite every effort by the veterinary team, our cat couldn’t survive the disease.
After delivering the news, I felt a sense of relief mixed with sorrow. It was crucial to deliver the news calmly and supportively, allowing him space to process his emotions. I stayed with him, offering comfort and highlighting the happy memories we shared with our cat to help him cope.”
delivering-bad-news|delivering bad news|a person telling bad news to their friend while sitting in the living room
Additional Follow-up Questions
How did your brother react to the news?
Suggested Answer: “He was understandably very upset and cried a lot. However, with time and support from the whole family, he gradually came to terms with the loss.”Would you do anything differently if you had to deliver similar news again?
Suggested Answer: “I believe I handled the situation well, but if I had to do it again, I might also try to prepare some comforting activities or distractions for immediately after delivering the news to help ease the emotional impact.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Examiner Questions and Suggested Answers
Question: How can people deliver bad news effectively?
Suggested Answer:
“Effectively delivering bad news requires empathy, honesty, and clarity. It’s crucial to choose an appropriate setting, away from distractions, where the receiver feels comfortable. The person delivering the news should be direct but gentle, allowing the other person to ask questions and express their feelings. It’s also beneficial to offer support and solutions if applicable.”Question: What impact does delivering bad news have on the person giving it?
Suggested Answer:
“Delivering bad news can be highly stressful and emotionally taxing for the person giving it. It often involves anticipation of the other person’s reaction and managing one’s own emotions in the process. It can lead to feelings of guilt, anxiety, or even a sense of relief if done appropriately and with compassion.”Question: Are there any cultural differences in how people deliver bad news?
Suggested Answer:
“Absolutely, cultural norms greatly influence how bad news is conveyed. In some cultures, people prefer to be very direct and straightforward, while in others, more indirect and softened approaches are taken to avoid hurting the receiver’s feelings. Understanding these nuances is crucial, especially in multicultural environments.”
Vocabulary and Structures to Achieve High Scores
- Empathy /ˈempəθi/: (n) the ability to understand and share the feelings of another.
- “Delivering bad news with empathy ensures the receiver feels understood and supported.”
- Compassion /kəmˈpaSHən/: (n) sympathetic pity and concern for the sufferings or misfortunes of others.
- “Approaching the situation with compassion can significantly soften the emotional impact of bad news.”
- Clarity /ˈklari-ti/: (n) the quality of being coherent and intelligible.
- “Effective communication requires clarity to prevent misunderstandings.”
Tips for Practicing Speaking
- Practice regularly: Consistent practice helps build confidence and fluency.
- Record yourself: Listening to your recordings can you identify areas for improvement.
- Expand your vocabulary: Reading articles, listening to podcasts, and engaging in discussions can help.
- Receive feedback: Get feedback from a teacher or a fluent English speaker to refine your skills.
For more tips on improving your Speaking abilities, check out the article on Pull Yourself Together and understand the use of regret in various contexts with Use of Regret: Gerund or Noun Phrase.
Good luck with your preparation!