The IELTS Speaking test is designed to assess a candidate’s ability to communicate effectively in English across a variety of topics. Examiners will evaluate fluency and coherence, lexical resource, grammatical range and accuracy, and pronunciation. Questions related to working with people from different backgrounds are common and test your ability to describe experiences inclusively and with clarity.
In this article, we will provide comprehensive guidance on answering the question, “Describe A Time When You Had To Work With People From Different Backgrounds,” with sample answers for each part of the speaking test and tips to achieve a higher band score.
II. Main Content
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
- Examiner Questions:
- “Do you enjoy working in teams?”
- “Have you ever worked with someone from a different country?”
- “Can you tell me about the team projects you have been involved in?”
Sample Answer:
“Yes, I do enjoy working in teams. One memorable experience was during a university project where I collaborated with students from various countries. This required us to appreciate and respect each other’s cultural differences to achieve our common goal.”
Part 2: Long Turn
Cue Card:
Describe a time when you had to work with people from different backgrounds. You should say:
- When it was
- Who you worked with
- What the project was
- And explain how you felt about working with these people.
Sample Answer:
“One particular time that stands out was during my final year at university. I participated in an international research project, and my team comprised members from China, Brazil, and Germany. We were assigned to develop a sustainable business model for a startup. Working with varied backgrounds brought in diverse perspectives which were both enlightening and challenging.
**Throughout the project, I learned a lot about different cultural approaches to problem-solving. For instance, my Chinese teammate was exceptional at data analytics, providing us critical insights, while my Brazilian peer’s creativity shone in marketing strategies. The German member was fantastic at project management, ensuring that we stayed on track.
Although it was initially overwhelming to coordinate with such a varied team, I soon realized the immense value each member brought to the table. This experience not only helped me grow professionally but also personally, making me more open-minded and culturally sensitive.”
Follow-up Questions:
- “How did you manage communication challenges in your team?”
- “We made use of various communication tools like emails and video calls, and we also established clear guidelines to ensure everyone was on the same page.”
- “What skills did you develop from this experience?”
- “I developed effective communication skills, cultural sensitivity, and the ability to adapt quickly to different working styles.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Examiner Questions:
- “Why is diversity important in the workplace?”
- “What are some challenges that teams face when members come from diverse backgrounds?”
- “How can companies foster an inclusive work environment?”
Sample Answers:
Why is diversity important in the workplace?
“Diversity is crucial because it brings a variety of viewpoints and ideas, leading to more innovative solutions. It also promotes cultural awareness and understanding, which are essential in today’s global market.”
What are some challenges that teams face when members come from diverse backgrounds?
“One significant challenge is the potential for miscommunication due to language barriers or different cultural norms. Moreover, there might be conflicting work ethics and expectations, which can lead to misunderstandings if not managed well.”
How can companies foster an inclusive work environment?
“Companies can encourage inclusivity by promoting cultural competence training, creating policies that support diversity, and ensuring that everyone has equal opportunities for advancement. It’s also important to celebrate cultural differences through events and initiatives that highlight and respect diverse backgrounds.”
III. Important Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
- Cultural sensitivity [ˈkʌltʃərəl ˌsɛnsɪˈtɪvɪti] (n): Awareness and respect for cultural differences.
- Example: Developing cultural sensitivity is crucial when working in a global team.
- Inclusive work environment [ɪnˈkluːsɪv wɜrk ɪnˈvaɪrənmənt] (n): A workspace where all employees are valued and included.
- Example: An inclusive work environment boosts employee morale and productivity.
- Miscommunication [ˌmɪskəˌmjunɪˈkeɪʃən] (n): Failure to communicate ideas or intentions effectively.
- Example: Miscommunication can lead to project delays and team discord.
- Diverse perspectives [daɪˈvɜrs pərˈspɛktɪvz] (n): Varied viewpoints stemming from different backgrounds.
- Example: Diverse perspectives can drive more innovative solutions to problems.
IV. Tips for Practicing for a Higher Score
- Practice fluency: Speak continuously and try to expand your ideas coherently without unnecessary pauses.
- Expand your vocabulary: Use a variety of words and expressions appropriately.
- Work on pronunciation: Ensure clarity and correct stress patterns in your speech.
- Record and review: Regularly record your answers, listen to them, and note areas for improvement.
For more guided practice, consider exploring related topics such as Describe a time when you were involved in a cross-cultural activity or Describe a time when you worked with people from different cultures.
Diverse Team
By carefully preparing your responses for different parts of the speaking test, ensuring thorough practice, and incorporating diverse vocabulary and structures, you can achieve a high band score in your IELTS Speaking test.
