The IELTS Speaking test comprises three parts, designed to evaluate a variety of skills and language proficiency. Today, we will explore an example of the topic: “Describe a time when you had to learn a new process.” This detailed guide aims to assist candidates in understanding how to respond effectively to this type of question to achieve a high band score.
I. Introduction
The IELTS Speaking section is divided into three parts: Part 1 (Introduction and Interview), Part 2 (Long Turn), and Part 3 (Two-way Discussion). An IELTS Examiner generally evaluates the candidates based on Fluency and Coherence, Lexical Resource, Grammatical Range and Accuracy, and Pronunciation.
The topic “Describe a time when you had to learn a new process” is quite common. It covers aspects of personal experience, problem-solving, and learning ability, making it a popular choice among examiners.
II. Main Content
1. Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, the examiner usually asks the candidate general questions about themselves and various topics. Here’s an example of an introductory question and how to answer it:
Question:
“Have you ever had to learn a new skill for your job?”
Suggested Answer:
“Yes, absolutely. When I started my current job, I had to learn how to use a sophisticated software system for managing our projects. It was quite challenging at first, but with the help of online tutorials and some practice, I became competent fairly quickly.”
2. Part 2: Long Turn
Cue Card:
Describe a time when you had to learn a new process:
- What the process was
- Why you had to learn it
- How you learned it
- How you felt after learning it
Suggested Answer:
“A few years ago, I embarked on a new job where I had to learn how to use an advanced Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system. This was crucial since the company depended heavily on this system for tracking client interactions and sales processes.
Initially, the sheer complexity of the CRM software was daunting. I had no prior experience, so it felt like starting from scratch. My manager provided me with a comprehensive manual and arranged a series of training sessions.
To ensure I grasped the process, I set up a step-by-step practice plan. This involved watching tutorial videos, attending webinars, and hands-on training sessions. I also found it beneficial to shadow a more experienced colleague. This gave me insight into practical applications that weren’t covered in the training materials.
After a few weeks, I felt proficient and confident using the CRM system. This experience was an invaluable lesson in patience and perseverance. It underscored the importance of continuous learning and adaptation in a dynamic work environment.”
Bullet Points:
- What the process was
- Why you had to learn it
- How you learned it
- How you felt after learning it
3. Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In Part 3, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic discussed in Part 2.
Examiner:
“Why do you think some people find it difficult to learn new processes?”
Suggested Answer:
“Many people find it hard to learn new processes due to a combination of factors. Firstly, resistance to change can play a significant role. People tend to be comfortable with routines and may feel overwhelmed by the prospect of learning something new. Additionally, the learning curve for complex processes can be steep, which requires significant time and effort, leading to frustration and discouragement. However, providing appropriate support and resources can mitigate these challenges.”
Examiner:
“How can organizations help their employees learn new processes efficiently?”
Suggested Answer:
“Organizations can facilitate efficient learning by offering structured training programs, which may include tutorials, hands-on workshops, and mentorship from experienced colleagues. Making use of e-learning platforms can also be beneficial, as they allow employees to learn at their own pace. Moreover, fostering a supportive and encouraging environment can motivate employees to engage with and master new processes. Utilizing feedback mechanisms can further ensure that any challenges are promptly addressed, leading to a smoother learning experience.”
III. Vocabulary and Structures to Boost Your IELTS Speaking Score
Important Vocabulary:
-
Embark /ɪmˈbɑːrk/ (verb): To begin or start something new.
- “I embarked on a new journey to learn digital marketing.”
-
Daunting /ˈdɔːntɪŋ/ (adjective): Intimidating or challenging.
- “The new software was initially daunting to use.”
-
Grasp /ɡræsp/ (verb): To understand thoroughly.
- “I needed to grasp the fundamentals of the new process quickly.”
-
Proficient /prəˈfɪʃnt/ (adjective): Competent or skilled.
- “After some training, I became proficient in using the new system.”
-
Mitigate /ˈmɪtɪɡeɪt/ (verb): To make something less severe.
- “Proper training can mitigate the challenges of learning new processes.”
Example Sentences:
- “Learning a new language can be daunting at first.”
- “The comprehensive guide helped me grasp the main concepts easily.”
IV. Tips for High Band Scores in Speaking
- Practice Regularly: Regular practice helps build fluency and confidence.
- Expand Your Vocabulary: Use a variety of vocabulary to express ideas precisely.
- Structure Your Thoughts: Organize your answers clearly with a beginning, middle, and end.
- Stay Calm and Collected: Staying calm helps improve pronunciation and coherence.
- Seek Feedback: Regular feedback from teachers or peers can point out areas of improvement.
By following these suggestions and practicing diligently, candidates can significantly improve their chances of achieving a high band score in the IELTS Speaking test.