The IELTS Speaking test evaluates candidates based on four criteria: Fluency and Coherence, Lexical Resource, Grammatical Range and Accuracy, and Pronunciation. An engaging answer to a common question like “Describe A Time When You Had To Take A Risk” can score highly in each of these areas. This topic frequently appears in Speaking Part 2 (Long Turn) and is a great opportunity to showcase storytelling skills, vocabulary, and complex grammatical structures.
In this article, we will discuss sample questions and model answers, analyze key elements for a high-scoring response, and provide useful vocabulary.
Common Questions in Speaking Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, the examiner asks general questions about yourself to make you comfortable. Here are some common questions:
- Can you tell me about your hometown?
- Do you enjoy reading books?
- Have you ever taken a risk?
Sample Answer for Part 1 Question:
Question: Have you ever taken a risk?
Answer: Yes, I have taken several risks in my life, but one that stands out was when I decided to quit my stable job to start my own business. It was a nerve-wracking decision, but I felt passionate about my idea and was willing to take the plunge.
Part 2: Long Turn
Cue Card for “Describe a time when you had to take a risk”
You should say:
- What the risk was
- Why you decided to take it
- What the outcome was
- How you felt about it
Model Answer:
About two years ago, I took a significant risk by quitting my stable corporate job to launch my own startup. I had always nurtured a dream of becoming an entrepreneur, but leaving a well-paying job was undoubtedly a daunting decision.
The idea pivoted on creating eco-friendly products. Initially, I grappled with various fears, especially financial instability and uncertainties about the business’s success. However, the urge to bring innovative, sustainable products to the market surpassed all my apprehensions.
The outcome was remarkably positive. After months of painstaking work and numerous setbacks, the business started to gain traction. It was incredibly exhilarating when we secured our first big client. The sense of accomplishment and the overwhelming support from family and friends made the risk worth taking.
Reflecting back, I am proud of taking that leap of faith. The journey expanded my horizons and fortified my resilience in ways I had never imagined. This chapter of my life taught me that taking calculated risks can lead to substantial personal and professional growth.
taking-risks-business-growth|business growth|A chart showing upward trend of business growth with a person standing in front of it celebrating the success.
Key Phrases:
- a significant risk
- pivoted on
- uncertainties
- fortified my resilience
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In Part 3, the examiner will engage you in a two-way discussion, exploring more abstract concepts related to the cue card topic.
Sample Questions:
- Do you think people are more willing to take risks now than in the past? Why?
- What are the potential benefits and drawbacks of taking risks?
- In what situations do you think taking risks is not advisable?
Model Answer for Discussion Question:
Question: Do you think people are more willing to take risks now than in the past? Why?
Answer: Absolutely, I believe people today are more inclined towards taking risks compared to previous generations. This shift can be attributed to the rapidly changing world driven by technological advancements and greater access to information. Nowadays, individuals have better resources to understand and evaluate potential risks. Furthermore, the evolving job market and the rise of entrepreneurial culture have encouraged a risk-taking mindset. However, while taking risks can open doors to remarkable opportunities, it’s essential to approach these decisions with a prudent, informed outlook.
Key Phrases:
- inclined towards taking risks
- technological advancements
- evaluating potential risks
- entrepreneurial culture
- prudent, informed outlook
Essential Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
Key Vocabulary:
- Leap of faith: A belief in or acceptance of something uncertain.
- Daunting: Seemingly difficult to deal with in prospect.
- Entrepreneur: A person who sets up a business, taking on financial risks in the hope of profit.
Example Sentences:
- Quitting my job was undoubtedly a leap of faith, as I ventured into the uncertain world of entrepreneurship.
- The task seemed daunting at first, but with perseverance, I overcame the challenges.
- Becoming an entrepreneur required me to constantly be on my toes, ready to innovate and adapt.
Tips for High Scores in the IELTS Speaking Exam
- Practice Regularly: Regular practice enhances fluency and coherence.
- Expand Your Vocabulary: Use varied and precise vocabulary to express your ideas.
- Stay Calm: Nervousness can affect performance. Stay calm and focused.
- Be Natural: Speak naturally and avoid memorizing responses, as examiners can easily detect rehearsed answers.
- Use Complex Sentences: Incorporate a mix of simple and complex sentences to demonstrate grammatical range.
Internal Links:
For more tips and sample answers on similar topics, visit:
- Describe a time when you took on a challenge
- Describe a time when you had to be very brave
- Describe a time when you received good advice
- Describe a time when you tried something adventurous
By practicing these strategies and familiarizing yourself with the types of questions and effective responses, you can significantly enhance your performance in the IELTS Speaking test and achieve a high band score.
