The IELTS Speaking test often includes topics related to personal experiences and achievements. One such topic that frequently appears is describing a time when you taught someone something new. This task allows candidates to showcase their communication skills, ability to explain complex concepts, and reflect on their personal growth. Let’s explore how to effectively tackle this speaking topic and achieve a high band score.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In the first part of the speaking test, the examiner may ask you some general questions about teaching and learning. Here are some potential questions and a sample answer:
Question: “Do you enjoy teaching others?”
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“Absolutely. I find teaching to be an incredibly rewarding experience. There’s something deeply satisfying about sharing knowledge and seeing that moment of understanding light up in someone’s eyes. It’s not just about imparting information; it’s about fostering curiosity and helping others develop new skills. Plus, I often find that I learn a great deal myself in the process of explaining concepts to others.”
describe a person who has taught you an important skill
Part 2: Long Turn
For the second part of the speaking test, you may receive a cue card related to teaching someone something new. Here’s a sample cue card and response:
Cue Card:
Describe a time when you taught someone something new.
You should say:
- What you taught
- Who you taught it to
- Why you taught it
- How you felt about the experience
Sample Answer (Band 6-7):
“I’d like to talk about a time when I taught my younger brother how to ride a bicycle. He was around 7 years old at the time, and I was 14. I decided to teach him because our parents were busy with work, and I wanted to help my brother gain some independence.
I started by explaining the basics of balance and pedaling. Then, I held the back of the seat while he tried to pedal. It took a few days of practice, but eventually, he was able to ride on his own.
I felt really proud and happy when he finally managed to ride without my help. It was a great bonding experience for us, and I enjoyed being able to pass on a skill that I had learned earlier.”
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to recount an experience where I imparted a new skill to my younger sibling. The task at hand was teaching my 7-year-old brother the art of cycling, a milestone I had achieved some years prior at the age of 14.
The impetus behind this endeavor was twofold: firstly, our parents’ demanding work schedules left little time for such activities, and secondly, I was keen on fostering a sense of autonomy in my brother.
I approached the task methodically, beginning with an exposition on the fundamental principles of balance and pedaling. This theoretical groundwork was followed by practical sessions where I provided physical support, holding the bicycle’s seat as he acclimatized to the motion.
The process was not without its challenges, requiring several days of persistent effort and encouragement. However, the culmination of our endeavors was immensely rewarding. Witnessing my brother’s triumphant solo ride filled me with an overwhelming sense of pride and joy.
This experience proved to be a significant bonding opportunity, strengthening our sibling relationship. Moreover, it gave me a profound appreciation for the art of knowledge transfer and the satisfaction that comes from nurturing another’s growth.”
Follow-up questions:
- How did you feel when your brother finally learned to ride independently?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“The moment my brother achieved independent cycling was truly exhilarating. I felt an overwhelming sense of pride and accomplishment, not just for him but also for myself as his teacher. It was a tangible manifestation of our combined efforts and perseverance. Moreover, it gave me a newfound appreciation for the challenges and rewards of teaching, sparking a genuine interest in mentoring that has stayed with me ever since.”
- Do you think everyone has the ability to teach?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“While I believe that the capacity to share knowledge is inherent in most individuals, effective teaching is a skill that requires cultivation. It demands patience, clear communication, and the ability to adapt one’s approach to suit different learning styles. Some people may have a natural predisposition towards teaching, but I’m convinced that with dedication and practice, anyone can develop these skills to become a competent instructor in their area of expertise.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In this part, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to teaching and learning. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:
Question: “What qualities do you think make a good teacher?”
Sample answer (Band 6-7):
“I think a good teacher needs to be patient and understanding. They should be able to explain things clearly and be passionate about their subject. It’s also important for teachers to be approachable so students feel comfortable asking questions.”
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“In my opinion, an exemplary educator possesses a multifaceted skill set. Foremost among these qualities is the ability to ignite curiosity and foster a genuine love for learning. A proficient teacher should be adept at tailoring their approach to accommodate diverse learning styles, demonstrating both flexibility and empathy.
Moreover, effective communication is paramount. This involves not just clarity in explanation, but also the capacity to actively listen and respond thoughtfully to students’ queries and concerns. Passion for the subject matter is equally crucial, as it invariably inspires and motivates learners.
Lastly, I believe that resilience and adaptability are indispensable traits in today’s rapidly evolving educational landscape. A teacher who can embrace change, incorporate new technologies, and continuously refine their methods is best equipped to prepare students for the challenges of the modern world.”
describe a unique custom in your culture
Question: “How has technology changed the way people learn new skills?”
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“Technology has revolutionized the learning landscape in myriad ways. Firstly, it has democratized access to information, allowing individuals to acquire knowledge on virtually any subject at their convenience. Online platforms and mobile applications have made learning more interactive and engaging, often incorporating gamification elements to enhance retention.
Furthermore, technology has facilitated personalized learning experiences. Adaptive learning systems can tailor content to individual needs, pace, and preferences, maximizing the efficiency of the learning process. Virtual and augmented reality technologies have opened up new possibilities for immersive learning, particularly beneficial in fields like medicine or engineering where hands-on experience is crucial.
However, it’s important to note that technology is not without its challenges. The abundance of information can sometimes lead to information overload, and the quality of online resources can vary significantly. Additionally, the reduced face-to-face interaction in online learning environments may impact the development of certain soft skills.
On balance, though, I believe technology has overwhelmingly positive implications for skill acquisition, making learning more accessible, flexible, and tailored to individual needs than ever before.”
Technology revolutionizing the learning landscape
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
To achieve a high band score in your IELTS Speaking test, it’s crucial to use a wide range of vocabulary and complex sentence structures. Here are some key terms and phrases that can help elevate your responses:
Impart (verb) /ɪmˈpɑːrt/ – to pass on or communicate knowledge or information
Example: “I was eager to impart my cycling skills to my younger brother.”Methodical (adjective) /məˈθɒdɪkl/ – done in a careful and systematic way
Example: “I took a methodical approach to teaching, breaking down the process into simple steps.”Exhilarating (adjective) /ɪɡˈzɪləreɪtɪŋ/ – making one feel very happy, animated, or elated
Example: “Watching my brother ride independently for the first time was truly exhilarating.”Cultivate (verb) /ˈkʌltɪveɪt/ – to develop or improve by education or training
Example: “Effective teaching is a skill that needs to be cultivated over time.”Exemplary (adjective) /ɪɡˈzempləri/ – serving as a desirable model; very good
Example: “An exemplary educator possesses a wide range of skills and qualities.”
describe a hobby you used to have as a child
Examiner’s Advice
As an IELTS examiner, I recommend the following strategies to excel in the Speaking test:
Practice regularly: Engage in English conversations daily to improve fluency and confidence.
Expand your vocabulary: Learn new words and phrases related to common IELTS topics and use them in context.
Use a variety of sentence structures: Incorporate complex sentences and idiomatic expressions to demonstrate language proficiency.
Develop your ideas: Provide detailed responses with examples and personal experiences to support your points.
Stay calm and composed: Remember that the examiner is there to assess your language skills, not to trick you. Maintain a positive attitude throughout the test.
Listen carefully: Make sure you understand the questions fully before responding. It’s okay to ask for clarification if needed.
Be authentic: While it’s important to showcase your language skills, ensure your responses reflect your genuine thoughts and experiences.
describe an event that made you proud
By following these tips and incorporating the sample answers and vocabulary provided, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle the IELTS Speaking test topic of teaching someone something new. Remember, the key to success lies in consistent practice and a genuine effort to improve your English language skills.