When it comes to the IELTS Speaking test, being able to explain difficult concepts clearly and confidently is a valuable skill. The topic “describe a time when you had to explain something difficult” is a common theme that often appears in IELTS Speaking Part 2. This article will provide you with strategies and sample answers to help you excel in this task and boost your overall speaking performance.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, the examiner may ask you some general questions related to explaining things. Here’s a sample question with a suggested answer:
Q: Do you find it easy to explain things to others?
A: Well, I’d say it depends on the subject matter. If it’s something I’m passionate about or have in-depth knowledge of, I find it quite enjoyable to break down complex ideas into simpler terms. However, when it comes to topics I’m less familiar with, I sometimes struggle to find the right words or analogies to make my explanations clear. I believe effective explanation is a skill that improves with practice and experience.
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Part 2: Long Turn
Here’s a sample cue card related to the topic:
Describe a time when you had to explain something difficult to someone.
You should say:
- What you had to explain
- Who you explained it to
- Why it was difficult to explain
- How you managed to explain it
Sample Answer (Band 6-7):
I’d like to talk about a time when I had to explain a complex scientific concept to my younger sister. She was struggling with her biology homework, which was about DNA replication. It was challenging because the topic involves many intricate steps and unfamiliar terms.
To make it easier for her to understand, I decided to use everyday objects as props. I used colored strings to represent DNA strands and paper clips to show how the strands separate and replicate. I broke down the process into simple steps and used analogies she could relate to, like comparing DNA to a recipe book for making proteins.
It took some time and patience, but eventually, she began to grasp the concept. I encouraged her to ask questions throughout the explanation, which helped me identify areas that needed more clarification. By the end of our session, she was able to complete her homework with confidence.
This experience taught me the importance of adapting my communication style to suit the listener’s level of understanding. It also reinforced the value of using visual aids and relatable examples when explaining complex ideas.
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
I’d like to recount an instance where I was tasked with elucidating the intricacies of blockchain technology to my grandmother, who has limited exposure to modern digital concepts. The challenge lay not only in the complexity of the subject matter but also in bridging the generational gap in technological understanding.
To tackle this formidable task, I employed a multi-faceted approach. Firstly, I drew parallels between blockchain and concepts my grandmother was familiar with, likening it to a public ledger that everyone can see but no one can alter without consensus. I used the analogy of a neighborhood watch program where everyone keeps an eye on each other’s property, ensuring security through collective vigilance.
To visualize the concept, I created a simple diagram using household items. I used a chain of interlocking paperclips to represent the blockchain, with each clip symbolizing a block of transactions. This tactile representation helped my grandmother grasp the idea of interconnected, immutable records.
Throughout the explanation, I was mindful of using age-appropriate language and avoiding technical jargon. When introducing necessary technical terms, I provided clear, concise definitions and repeated them in different contexts to reinforce understanding.
What made this explanation particularly effective was my patience and willingness to rephrase and revisit concepts as needed. I encouraged my grandmother to interrupt with questions, which allowed me to gauge her comprehension and adjust my explanation accordingly.
By the end of our discussion, my grandmother had not only grasped the basic principles of blockchain but also developed a genuine interest in its potential applications. This experience underscored the importance of empathy, creativity, and adaptability in communication, especially when bridging significant knowledge gaps.
Follow-up Questions:
- How do you feel when you successfully explain something difficult?
- What strategies do you use to make complex ideas easier to understand?
Sample Answers:
(Band 6-7) When I successfully explain something difficult, I feel a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction. It’s rewarding to see the other person’s face light up with understanding. It boosts my confidence in my communication skills and motivates me to take on more challenging explanations in the future.
(Band 8-9) Successfully elucidating a complex concept engenders a profound sense of fulfillment. It’s not merely about imparting knowledge; it’s about fostering intellectual connections and bridging cognitive gaps. The moment of comprehension in the listener’s eyes is incredibly gratifying, affirming the efficacy of one’s pedagogical approach. Moreover, it reinforces the notion that with the right methodology, even the most abstruse ideas can be rendered accessible, which is a powerful motivator for continuous improvement in one’s explanatory skills.
(Band 6-7) To make complex ideas easier to understand, I often use analogies and real-life examples. Breaking down the concept into smaller, more manageable parts is also helpful. I try to use simple language and avoid jargon when possible. Visual aids like diagrams or props can be really useful too, especially for visual learners.
(Band 8-9) When tasked with simplifying complex ideas, I employ a multi-pronged approach. Foremost is the principle of scaffolding – building upon familiar concepts to introduce new, more complex ones. I also leverage the power of multimodal learning, incorporating visual, auditory, and kinesthetic elements to cater to diverse learning styles. Analogies and metaphors serve as cognitive bridges, linking abstract concepts to concrete, relatable experiences. Additionally, I practice active listening and adaptive communication, continuously gauging the listener’s comprehension and adjusting my explanation accordingly. This dynamic approach ensures that the explanation evolves in response to the listener’s needs, facilitating a more effective and personalized learning experience.
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Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Q: Why do some people find it challenging to explain complex ideas?
A: (Band 6-7) There are several reasons why people might struggle to explain complex ideas. Firstly, they might not have a deep understanding of the subject themselves. It’s hard to explain something clearly if you’re not confident about it. Another reason could be a lack of communication skills or experience in breaking down complex information into simpler terms. Some people might also find it difficult to put themselves in the shoes of someone who doesn’t have the same level of knowledge, making it hard to know where to start or what details to include.
A: (Band 8-9) The difficulty in elucidating complex ideas stems from a multitude of factors. Primarily, it’s a cognitive challenge that involves translating abstract concepts into concrete, relatable terms. This process requires not only a profound understanding of the subject matter but also the ability to deconstruct and reconstruct knowledge in a way that’s accessible to others. Moreover, effective explanation necessitates a high degree of empathy and perspective-taking, as one must anticipate the listener’s background knowledge and potential points of confusion. The ‘curse of knowledge’ – where experts struggle to remember what it’s like not to know something – can be a significant barrier. Additionally, the explainer must navigate the delicate balance between oversimplification and overwhelming detail, tailoring the explanation to the listener’s cognitive capacity and interest level. Lastly, the pressure of real-time communication can exacerbate these challenges, as one must simultaneously recall information, formulate explanations, and respond to feedback.
Q: How can technology be used to help explain difficult concepts?
A: (Band 6-7) Technology can be a great tool for explaining difficult concepts. Visual aids like animations and interactive diagrams can help people see how things work, which is often easier than just hearing about it. Online platforms and apps can provide step-by-step tutorials that people can follow at their own pace. Virtual reality could even let people experience complex ideas in a more immersive way. Plus, technology makes it easier to access a wide range of explanations on any topic, so people can find the one that works best for them.
A: (Band 8-9) Technology offers a plethora of innovative approaches to elucidate complex concepts. Augmented and virtual reality technologies, for instance, can create immersive learning environments that allow individuals to interact with abstract ideas in a tangible, spatial manner. This can be particularly effective for explaining scientific or mathematical concepts that are difficult to visualize. Additionally, adaptive learning algorithms can tailor explanations to individual learning styles and paces, providing personalized learning experiences. Interactive simulations and data visualization tools can transform static information into dynamic, manipulable models, facilitating a deeper understanding of complex systems and relationships. Moreover, artificial intelligence-powered chatbots and virtual tutors can provide on-demand explanations, adapting their communication style based on the learner’s responses and progress. Collaborative platforms and social learning tools also leverage the power of peer-to-peer explanations and discussions, often leading to novel insights and perspectives. By harnessing these technological advancements, we can create multisensory, adaptive, and engaging explanatory experiences that cater to diverse learning needs and cognitive styles.
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Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
Elucidate /ɪˈluːsɪdeɪt/ (verb): To explain or make something clear; to throw light upon.
Example: “I tried to elucidate the complex theory in simple terms.”Articulate /ɑːˈtɪkjʊleɪt/ (verb): To express thoughts or ideas clearly and effectively.
Example: “She was able to articulate her ideas clearly, despite the topic’s complexity.”Analogous /əˈnæləɡəs/ (adjective): Comparable in certain respects, typically in a way that makes clearer the nature of the things compared.
Example: “I used an analogous situation from everyday life to explain the scientific principle.”Cognitive dissonance /ˈkɒɡnətɪv ˈdɪsənəns/ (noun): The state of having inconsistent thoughts, beliefs, or attitudes, especially as relating to behavioral decisions and attitude change.
Example: “Explaining the concept led to cognitive dissonance as it challenged their existing beliefs.”Scaffold /ˈskæfəʊld/ (verb): To support or provide a framework for learning.
Example: “I scaffolded my explanation by starting with basic concepts and gradually introducing more complex ideas.”
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Tips from an IELTS Examiner
Practice explaining complex topics: Regularly challenge yourself to explain difficult concepts to friends or family members. This will help you develop your explanatory skills and identify areas for improvement.
Develop a rich vocabulary: Expand your lexicon with precise and varied words to articulate your thoughts more effectively. However, ensure you use these words naturally and appropriately.
Master the art of analogy: Practice creating analogies to simplify complex ideas. This skill is highly valued in the IELTS Speaking test.
Improve your clarity and coherence: Organize your thoughts logically before speaking. Use discourse markers to connect your ideas smoothly.
Enhance your non-verbal communication: Your body language and tone of voice can significantly impact how well your explanation is received. Practice speaking with confidence and enthusiasm.
Seek feedback: After explaining something, ask for feedback on your clarity and effectiveness. This will help you refine your communication skills.
Stay informed: Keep up with current affairs and various fields of knowledge. This will provide you with a rich pool of examples and contexts to draw from during your explanations.
By implementing these strategies and continuously practicing, you can significantly improve your ability to explain difficult concepts, which will undoubtedly boost your performance in the IELTS Speaking test.
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IELTS Speaking practice session with an examiner
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Speaking is not just about having extensive knowledge, but also about effectively communicating that knowledge. By mastering the art of explanation, you’ll be well-equipped to handle a wide range of topics and questions in your IELTS Speaking test.