The IELTS Speaking test often includes topics that explore candidates’ experiences and interactions with others. One such topic that frequently appears is “describe a time when you showed something new to others.” This article will guide you through answering questions related to this theme, providing sample responses and valuable tips to help you achieve a high band score.
Describe a person you know who has an interesting hobby can be a related topic that may come up in your IELTS Speaking test. Being prepared for various subjects will enhance your overall performance.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask you general questions about teaching or showing new things to others. Here are some possible questions and sample answers:
Do you enjoy teaching others new things?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“Absolutely. I find it incredibly rewarding to share knowledge with others. There’s something deeply satisfying about seeing someone grasp a new concept or skill that I’ve helped them understand. It’s not just about imparting information; it’s about fostering curiosity and inspiring a love for learning.”What was the last new thing you taught someone?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“Recently, I had the opportunity to teach my younger cousin how to code using Python. It was a challenging yet exhilarating experience. I had to break down complex programming concepts into digestible chunks and use relatable analogies to help him understand. Seeing his eyes light up when he successfully ran his first program was truly gratifying.”
Part 2: Long Turn
Cue Card
Describe a time when you showed something new to others.
You should say:
- What you showed
- Who you showed it to
- How you showed it
- And explain why you decided to show it to others
IELTS Speaking: Showing Something New to Others
Sample Answer (Band 6-7):
“I’d like to talk about the time I showed my colleagues how to use a new project management software. Our company had just implemented this system, and as I had some experience with it from my previous job, I volunteered to guide my team through it.
I demonstrated the software to a group of five team members in our office meeting room. I used a projector to display my screen and walked them through the main features step-by-step. I showed them how to create tasks, assign them to team members, set deadlines, and track progress.
I decided to show it to them because I knew it would significantly improve our workflow and communication. The software allows for better organization and real-time updates, which I thought would be beneficial for our team’s productivity.
During the demonstration, I made sure to go at a pace that everyone could follow and encouraged questions throughout. I also provided some practical examples relevant to our current projects to make the learning more applicable.
Overall, it was a positive experience, and my colleagues appreciated the guidance. They found the software helpful, and we’ve been using it effectively ever since.”
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d be delighted to share an experience where I introduced my colleagues to an innovative project management software that has revolutionized our workflow. As our company had recently acquired this cutting-edge system, and given my prior expertise with it, I took the initiative to guide my team through its intricacies.
I orchestrated a comprehensive demonstration for a group of five team members in our state-of-the-art conference room. Utilizing a high-resolution projector, I meticulously walked them through the software’s myriad features. I elucidated the process of creating and assigning tasks, setting realistic deadlines, and efficiently tracking progress in real-time.
My decision to showcase this software stemmed from my firm belief in its potential to dramatically enhance our team’s productivity and communication. The platform’s robust capabilities for seamless organization and instantaneous updates promised to streamline our operations significantly.
Throughout the demonstration, I was acutely aware of the varied technical backgrounds within my audience. Consequently, I deliberately paced my explanation to ensure comprehensive understanding. I actively encouraged questions and fostered an interactive environment, believing that engagement is key to effective learning.
To make the session more relatable and practical, I incorporated several pertinent examples from our ongoing projects. This approach helped bridge the gap between theory and application, allowing my colleagues to envision how the software could be immediately integrated into our daily operations.
The entire experience was overwhelmingly positive and mutually enriching. My colleagues expressed genuine appreciation for the in-depth guidance and quickly recognized the software’s potential to elevate our collective performance. Since then, we’ve been leveraging the system to its fullest potential, resulting in marked improvements in our project management efficiency.”
Follow-up Questions:
How did your colleagues react to the new software?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“My colleagues’ reaction was overwhelmingly positive. They were particularly impressed by the software’s intuitive interface and comprehensive features. Many expressed enthusiasm about how it would streamline our communication and boost productivity. There was a palpable sense of excitement in the room as they began to grasp the potential impact on our daily operations.”What challenges did you face while teaching them?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“The primary challenge was accommodating diverse learning styles and technical proficiencies within the group. Some colleagues were quick to grasp the concepts, while others required more detailed explanations. I had to strike a balance between maintaining a pace that kept everyone engaged and ensuring that no one felt left behind. Additionally, overcoming initial resistance to change from a few team members required tactful persuasion and demonstration of the software’s tangible benefits.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Examiner: Let’s talk more about teaching new things to others. In your opinion, what qualities make someone a good teacher?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“I believe there are several key qualities that contribute to being an effective teacher. Firstly, patience is crucial, as learners often need time to grasp new concepts. Secondly, strong communication skills are essential to explain complex ideas in simple terms. A good teacher should also be empathetic, understanding the challenges students face. Additionally, adaptability is important, as different students may require different teaching approaches. Lastly, passion for the subject matter can inspire and motivate learners.”
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“In my view, an exemplary teacher possesses a multifaceted skill set that goes beyond mere subject expertise. Paramount among these qualities is an inexhaustible well of patience, coupled with the ability to empathize with learners’ struggles. Exceptional communication skills are indispensable, enabling the teacher to distill complex concepts into easily digestible information.
Moreover, a truly outstanding educator demonstrates remarkable adaptability, effortlessly tailoring their approach to accommodate diverse learning styles and backgrounds. They possess an intuitive understanding of when to challenge students and when to offer support. Perhaps most crucially, they harbor a genuine passion for their subject, which invariably proves contagious, igniting a similar enthusiasm in their students.
Furthermore, I believe the best teachers are those who cultivate a growth mindset in their students, encouraging them to view challenges as opportunities for learning rather than insurmountable obstacles. They foster an environment where curiosity is celebrated and questions are welcomed, thereby nurturing independent thinking and lifelong learning habits.”
Examiner: How has technology changed the way we learn new things?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“Technology has dramatically transformed the learning landscape. It has made information more accessible than ever before, with online courses and tutorials available at our fingertips. Interactive learning platforms have made education more engaging and personalized. Virtual and augmented reality technologies are providing immersive learning experiences. However, it’s important to note that technology also presents challenges, such as information overload and the need for digital literacy skills.”
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“Technology has fundamentally revolutionized the way we acquire and process new information, ushering in an era of unprecedented access to knowledge. The proliferation of online learning platforms has democratized education, making high-quality instruction available to anyone with an internet connection, transcending geographical and socioeconomic barriers.
Moreover, the advent of artificial intelligence and machine learning has enabled the creation of adaptive learning systems that can tailor educational content to individual needs, pace, and learning style. This level of personalization was previously unattainable in traditional educational settings.
Augmented and virtual reality technologies have pushed the boundaries of experiential learning, allowing students to immerse themselves in historical events, explore the human body, or conduct virtual science experiments with a level of interactivity and engagement that was once the realm of science fiction.
However, it’s crucial to acknowledge that this technological revolution in learning also presents significant challenges. The sheer volume of information available can lead to cognitive overload, making it essential for learners to develop strong critical thinking and information literacy skills. Additionally, the digital divide remains a pressing issue, with disparities in access to technology potentially exacerbating educational inequalities.
In essence, while technology has undeniably enhanced our capacity to learn and share knowledge, it has also necessitated a paradigm shift in how we approach education, emphasizing the need for digital fluency, critical evaluation of sources, and the ability to synthesize information from diverse platforms.”
Describe a time when you felt grateful for something is another topic that can help you practice expressing emotions and experiences, which is crucial for the IELTS Speaking test.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
To implement (verb) /ɪmˈplɪmənt/ – to put a plan or system into action
Example: “Our company implemented a new project management system last month.”To elucidate (verb) /ɪˈluːsɪdeɪt/ – to explain or make something clear
Example: “The professor elucidated the complex theory in simple terms.”Innovative (adjective) /ˈɪnəvətɪv/ – introducing new ideas; original and creative in thinking
Example: “The innovative software revolutionized our workflow.”To streamline (verb) /ˈstriːmlaɪn/ – to make a system or organization more efficient and effective
Example: “The new process helped streamline our operations.”Comprehensive (adjective) /ˌkɒmprɪˈhensɪv/ – including or dealing with all or nearly all elements or aspects of something
Example: “I gave a comprehensive explanation of how to use the new software.”
Describe a time when you felt a sense of community can be an interesting topic to explore, especially when discussing shared learning experiences or teaching others in a group setting.
Examiner’s Advice
To excel in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when describing experiences like showing something new to others:
Practice extensively: Regularly practice speaking about various topics, including your experiences teaching or showing new things to others.
Develop your vocabulary: Learn and use a wide range of vocabulary related to teaching, learning, and technology.
Use idiomatic expressions: Incorporate natural-sounding phrases and idioms into your responses.
Provide specific examples: When describing your experience, give detailed examples to support your points.
Work on fluency: Aim to speak smoothly and confidently, without long pauses or hesitations.
Improve your pronunciation: Focus on clear pronunciation and natural intonation.
Listen carefully: Pay close attention to the examiner’s questions and respond appropriately.
Expand your answers: Provide detailed responses, but stay relevant to the question asked.
Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is to communicate effectively and confidently while showcasing your English language skills.
Describe a time when you felt proud of a family member and describe a skill you learned from a family member are additional topics that can help you practice describing personal experiences and relationships, which are valuable skills for the IELTS Speaking test.
IELTS Speaking Practice Tips
By following these guidelines and practicing regularly, you can significantly improve your performance in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when discussing topics like showing something new to others. Remember to stay calm, speak naturally, and showcase your English language abilities to the best of your potential.