As an experienced IELTS examiner, I’ve seen countless candidates struggle with the task of describing a time when they had to explain something complicated. This topic is not only common in IELTS Speaking tests but also highly relevant to real-life situations. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore how to tackle this challenge effectively and score high marks in your IELTS Speaking exam.
Understanding the IELTS Speaking Test Structure
Before we dive into the specific topic, let’s briefly review the structure of the IELTS Speaking test:
- Part 1: Introduction and Interview (4-5 minutes)
- Part 2: Long Turn (3-4 minutes)
- Part 3: Two-way Discussion (4-5 minutes)
Now, let’s explore how to handle each part when faced with the topic of explaining something complicated.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner might ask general questions related to explanations or complex topics. Here are some possible questions and suggested answers:
Sample Question 1: Do you often have to explain things to others?
Sample Answer: “Yes, I frequently find myself in situations where I need to explain concepts or procedures to others. In my current job as a software developer, I often have to break down complex technical ideas for my non-technical colleagues. It’s a skill I’ve been honing over the years, and I find it quite rewarding when I see the light of understanding in someone’s eyes.”
Sample Question 2: What qualities do you think are important for explaining things clearly?
Sample Answer: “I believe several qualities are crucial for effective explanation. Firstly, patience is key, as not everyone grasps new concepts at the same pace. Secondly, the ability to empathize with your audience and understand their perspective is vital. Lastly, having a clear and logical thought process allows you to structure your explanation in a way that’s easy to follow. These qualities combined can make a significant difference in how well your explanation is received and understood.”
Part 2: Long Turn
In this section, you’ll be given a cue card with a topic and some bullet points to discuss. Here’s a sample cue card related to our main topic:
Cue Card
Describe a time when you had to explain something complicated to someone.
You should say:
- What you had to explain
- Who you explained it to
- Why it was complicated
- How you managed to explain it successfully
Sample Answer
“I’d like to talk about a time when I had to explain the concept of blockchain technology to my grandmother. This happened about a year ago when cryptocurrencies were making headlines, and she was curious about what all the fuss was about.
The topic was inherently complex due to its technical nature and the fact that it involves several abstract concepts like decentralization and cryptography. Moreover, my grandmother, being from a different generation, wasn’t very familiar with digital technologies in general, which added an extra layer of difficulty.
To tackle this challenge, I decided to use a multi-pronged approach. First, I used a simple analogy comparing blockchain to a public ledger that everyone can see but no one can alter without everyone else knowing. Then, I broke down the concept into smaller, more digestible parts, explaining each one step by step.
I also used visual aids, drawing simple diagrams to illustrate how transactions are verified and added to the blockchain. Throughout the explanation, I made sure to check her understanding regularly and encouraged her to ask questions.
What made this explanation successful was my patience and willingness to rephrase and revisit concepts as needed. I also tried to relate the technology to things she was familiar with, like traditional banking systems, to help her grasp the significance of the innovation.
By the end of our conversation, my grandmother had a basic understanding of blockchain and even expressed interest in learning more about modern technologies. This experience taught me the importance of adapting my communication style to my audience and the power of using relatable examples when explaining complex ideas.”
Follow-up Questions
- How did you feel after successfully explaining the concept?
- Do you think the ability to explain complex ideas is an important skill in today’s world?
Sample Answers:
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“After successfully explaining blockchain to my grandmother, I felt a profound sense of accomplishment. It was immensely satisfying to see her eyes light up with understanding. This experience boosted my confidence in my communication skills and reinforced my belief in the power of patient, clear explanation.”
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“Absolutely, I believe the ability to explain complex ideas is increasingly crucial in today’s fast-paced, information-rich world. With rapid advancements in technology and science, there’s often a gap between experts and the general public. Those who can bridge this gap through clear communication are invaluable in fields ranging from education and journalism to business and politics. It’s a skill that fosters understanding, promotes innovation, and facilitates collaboration across diverse groups of people.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In this section, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:
Question 1: Why do some people find it challenging to explain complex ideas?
Sample Answer: “There are several reasons why individuals might struggle to explain complex ideas effectively. Firstly, there’s often a phenomenon known as the ‘curse of knowledge,’ where experts in a field become so familiar with a topic that they find it difficult to put themselves in the shoes of a novice. This can lead to using jargon or making assumptions about baseline knowledge that the listener may not have.
Secondly, complex ideas often involve multiple interconnected concepts, and some people might find it challenging to break these down into simpler, more digestible parts. The ability to create a logical structure for explanation is a skill that needs to be developed.
Lastly, effective explanation often requires a degree of creativity – the ability to come up with analogies, metaphors, or real-world examples that make abstract concepts more concrete. Not everyone has honed this skill, which can make explaining complex ideas a daunting task.”
Question 2: How has technology affected the way we explain and understand complex concepts?
Sample Answer: “Technology has revolutionized the way we explain and understand complex concepts in several ways. On one hand, it has provided us with powerful tools for visualization and simulation. Complex scientific or mathematical concepts that were once only describable through equations can now be illustrated through interactive 3D models or animations, making them more accessible to a wider audience.
Moreover, the internet has democratized access to information, allowing people to delve deeper into topics at their own pace. Online courses, video tutorials, and interactive learning platforms have made it possible for individuals to tackle complex subjects in a structured, step-by-step manner.
However, technology has also increased the complexity of many fields, creating new challenges in explanation. For instance, explaining how artificial intelligence works requires understanding multiple layers of abstraction that didn’t exist a few decades ago.
Interestingly, technology has also changed our attention spans and learning habits. The challenge now often lies in capturing and maintaining attention long enough to explain complex ideas thoroughly. This has led to the rise of microlearning and bite-sized content, where complex topics are broken down into smaller, more manageable chunks.
Overall, while technology has provided new tools and platforms for explanation, it has also created a need for more sophisticated explanation techniques to keep up with the increasing complexity of our world.”
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
To achieve a high band score in IELTS Speaking, it’s crucial to use a range of sophisticated vocabulary and expressions. Here are some key terms and phrases that can elevate your response:
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Break down /breɪk daʊn/ (phrasal verb): To divide a complex idea into simpler parts.
Example: “I had to break down the concept of quantum physics for my younger sister.” -
Elucidate /ɪˈluːsɪdeɪt/ (verb): To explain or make something clear.
Example: “The professor was able to elucidate the complex theory in a way that everyone could understand.” -
Analogous /əˈnæləɡəs/ (adjective): Comparable in certain respects, typically used to make an explanation clearer.
Example: “I used an analogous situation from everyday life to explain the scientific principle.” -
Simplify /ˈsɪmplɪfaɪ/ (verb): To make something easier to understand by explaining it in a simpler way.
Example: “The challenge was to simplify the technical jargon without losing the essence of the concept.” -
Articulate /ɑːˈtɪkjuleɪt/ (verb): To express an idea or feeling fluently and coherently.
Example: “She was able to articulate the complex policy in a way that resonated with the public.” -
Demystify /diːˈmɪstɪfaɪ/ (verb): To make a difficult subject easier to understand.
Example: “My goal was to demystify the process of photosynthesis for my students.”
Tips from an IELTS Examiner
As an experienced IELTS examiner, here are my top tips for scoring high on this topic:
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Practice structuring your explanations: Use clear signposting language to guide your listener through your explanation.
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Develop a repertoire of analogies: Having a range of relatable comparisons at your disposal can greatly enhance your explanations.
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Work on your paraphrasing skills: Being able to rephrase complex ideas in multiple ways is crucial for effective explanation.
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Expand your vocabulary: Familiarize yourself with topic-specific terminology as well as general academic vocabulary.
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Record yourself: Practice explaining complex topics and listen back to identify areas for improvement in your clarity and fluency.
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Speaking is not just about what you say, but how you say it. Confidence, clarity, and the ability to engage with the examiner are all crucial factors in achieving a high band score.
For more tips on IELTS Speaking, you might find these resources helpful:
By following these guidelines and practicing regularly, you’ll be well-equipped to handle any question about explaining complex ideas in your IELTS Speaking test. Good luck!