The COVID-19 pandemic has brought unprecedented changes to our lives, and IELTS examiners are keen to explore how candidates have adapted to these challenging times. One common speaking topic that has emerged is describing a new challenge taken on during the pandemic. This article will guide you through answering this question effectively, providing sample responses and key vocabulary to help you achieve a high band score.
IELTS Speaking Exam
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about your experiences during the pandemic. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:
Q: How has the pandemic affected your daily routine?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“The pandemic has significantly changed my daily routine. I now work from home most days, which means I don’t have to commute. I also spend more time cooking at home and exercising indoors.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“The pandemic has revolutionized my daily routine. The shift to remote work has eliminated my daily commute, allowing me to reallocate that time to personal development activities. I’ve also embraced home cooking and indoor fitness regimens, which have become integral parts of my new lifestyle.”
Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)
Cue Card:
Describe A Time When You Took On A New Challenge During The Pandemic.
You should say:
- What the challenge was
- Why you decided to take it on
- How you prepared for it
- And explain how you felt about the experience
Band 6-7 Sample Answer:
“During the pandemic, I decided to take on the challenge of learning a new language, specifically Spanish. I chose this challenge because I had always wanted to learn Spanish, and the lockdown provided me with extra free time. To prepare, I downloaded several language learning apps and signed up for online classes. I also started watching Spanish TV shows with subtitles to improve my listening skills.
The experience was both rewarding and frustrating at times. There were moments when I felt overwhelmed by the grammar rules, but I also experienced a great sense of achievement when I could understand parts of Spanish conversations. Overall, I’m glad I took on this challenge as it gave me a sense of purpose during a difficult time and helped me develop a new skill.”
Band 8-9 Sample Answer:
“Amidst the upheaval caused by the pandemic, I embarked on the formidable challenge of mastering the Spanish language. This endeavor was prompted by a long-standing desire to expand my linguistic repertoire, coupled with the unprecedented abundance of time afforded by lockdown measures.
To tackle this challenge systematically, I curated a comprehensive learning strategy. This involved leveraging cutting-edge language acquisition applications, enrolling in immersive online courses, and immersing myself in Spanish-language media to hone my auditory comprehension skills.
The journey was an emotional rollercoaster, characterized by moments of exhilaration and frustration in equal measure. The intricacies of Spanish grammar occasionally left me feeling disheartened, but these moments were counterbalanced by the euphoria of successfully navigating real-world conversations.
On reflection, undertaking this challenge proved to be an invaluable decision. It not only provided a much-needed sense of direction during a period of global uncertainty but also equipped me with a valuable skill set that will undoubtedly serve me well in our increasingly interconnected world.”
Follow-up Questions:
- Did you face any unexpected difficulties during this challenge?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“Yes, I found it difficult to stay motivated sometimes, especially when progress seemed slow. I also struggled with pronunciation more than I expected.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“Indeed, I encountered several unforeseen obstacles. The most significant was maintaining consistent motivation, particularly during periods when progress appeared to plateau. Additionally, mastering the nuances of Spanish pronunciation proved to be more challenging than anticipated, requiring extensive practice and patience.”
- How has this experience changed your approach to learning new skills?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“This experience has taught me the importance of setting realistic goals and being patient with myself. I’ve learned that consistency is key when acquiring new skills.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“This experience has fundamentally transformed my approach to skill acquisition. It has underscored the critical importance of establishing attainable objectives and cultivating patience throughout the learning process. Moreover, it has instilled in me a deep appreciation for the power of consistent, incremental progress in mastering new competencies.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Q: How do you think the pandemic has affected people’s willingness to take on new challenges?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“I think the pandemic has had mixed effects on people’s willingness to take on new challenges. On one hand, many people have had more free time to try new things. On the other hand, the stress and uncertainty of the situation might have made some people less likely to take risks.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“The pandemic has precipitated a dichotomy in people’s attitudes towards new challenges. For many, the enforced isolation and disruption of routine have catalyzed a renaissance of personal growth and skill development. The abundance of time has fostered an environment conducive to exploration and self-improvement. Conversely, the pervasive uncertainty and psychological toll of the crisis have engendered a sense of caution in others, potentially inhibiting their propensity for risk-taking and new endeavors. This divergence in responses underscores the complex psychological impact of the pandemic on individual motivation and resilience.”
Q: Do you believe that overcoming challenges during difficult times like a pandemic can lead to personal growth?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“Yes, I think overcoming challenges during difficult times can definitely lead to personal growth. It can help people become more resilient and adaptable. When we face and overcome obstacles, we often discover strengths we didn’t know we had.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“Absolutely. I firmly believe that surmounting challenges during periods of adversity, such as a pandemic, can serve as a powerful catalyst for personal growth. Such experiences tend to forge resilience and enhance adaptability, qualities that are invaluable in navigating life’s complexities. The process of confronting and overcoming obstacles often unveils latent capabilities and fosters a deeper sense of self-awareness. Moreover, successfully navigating these turbulent waters can instill a profound sense of self-efficacy, empowering individuals to approach future challenges with greater confidence and resourcefulness. In essence, these trials can function as crucibles for personal development, transforming adversity into opportunity for growth and self-discovery.”
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
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To embark on (phrasal verb) – /ɪmˈbɑːrk ɒn/ – to start or begin a new project or activity
Example: “I decided to embark on a fitness journey during the lockdown.” -
To curate (verb) – /kjʊəˈreɪt/ – to select, organize, and look after items in a collection
Example: “I curated a list of online resources to help me learn Spanish efficiently.” -
Formidable (adjective) – /fɔːˈmɪdəbl/ – inspiring fear or respect through being impressively large, powerful, or capable
Example: “Learning a new language from scratch was a formidable challenge.” -
To leverage (verb) – /ˈliːvərɪdʒ/ – to use something to maximum advantage
Example: “I leveraged my free time during the pandemic to develop new skills.” -
Invaluable (adjective) – /ɪnˈvæljʊəbl/ – extremely useful or indispensable
Example: “The experience of learning a new language proved invaluable for my personal growth.”
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when discussing challenges faced during the pandemic:
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Develop a rich vocabulary: Use a variety of sophisticated words and phrases to express your ideas clearly and precisely.
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Practice fluency: Work on speaking smoothly and confidently, minimizing hesitations and fillers.
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Elaborate on your answers: Provide detailed responses with examples and personal experiences to showcase your language skills.
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Use a range of grammatical structures: Incorporate complex sentences and a mix of tenses to demonstrate your grammatical range and accuracy.
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Stay relevant: Ensure your answers directly address the questions asked while providing insightful and well-developed responses.
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Show reflection: Demonstrate your ability to analyze experiences and their impact on your personal growth.
By following these tips and practicing regularly, you can enhance your performance in the IELTS Speaking test and effectively describe your experiences with new challenges during the pandemic.
For more guidance on IELTS Speaking topics, you may find these related articles helpful:
- How to Describe a Person Who Has Inspired You to Be More Resilient
- How to Describe a Time You Had to Adapt to a New Situation in IELTS Speaking
- Describe a Time When You Had to Be Very Flexible in a Situation
Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is practice and preparation. Good luck with your IELTS journey!
