The IELTS Speaking test is designed to assess your spoken English skills in a real-world context. As an IELTS Speaking Examiner, I can assure you that fluency, coherence, lexical resource, grammatical range, and pronunciation are the key elements we assess during the test. This article will focus on mastering the task of describing a time when you took the initiative, a frequent topic in Part 2 of the Speaking test.
You’ll find detailed examples, tips, and strategies to help you excel and achieve a higher band score.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1 of the Speaking test, the examiner asks personal questions about yourself, such as work, studies, and hobbies. Here’s a commonly asked question and a suggested answer to help you get started.
Example Question
Question: Can you tell me about a hobby or interest you enjoy?
Suggested Answer:
“Absolutely, I really enjoy photography. It’s a hobby that allows me to capture and preserve special moments. I started taking photos when I was a teenager, and it has become more of a passion over the years. Nowadays, I try to take my camera with me whenever I travel, looking for interesting subjects and beautiful landscapes to photograph.”
Analysis: Terms like “absolutely,” “capture,” and “preserve” demonstrate a good lexical range. Discussing the broad evolution of your hobby adds depth, indicating coherence and fluency.
Part 2: Long Turn
Cue Card and Sample Answer
Example Cue Card
Describe A Time When You Took The Initiative.
You should say:
- What the situation was
- What you did
- Why you took the initiative
- How you felt about the outcome
Sample Answer
“There was a time at my previous job when our team was struggling to meet a project deadline. Our manager was out of town, and everyone seemed overwhelmed. I decided to step up and take charge of the situation. I organized a meeting with my colleagues and created a prioritized action plan.
I divided the tasks among the team members based on their strengths and expertise. Additionally, I scheduled regular check-ins to ensure we stayed on track. I took this initiative because I wanted to demonstrate my leadership skills and help the team succeed.
In the end, we completed the project two days before the deadline, which not only impressed our manager but also boosted the team’s morale. I felt a great sense of accomplishment and pride for being able to make a positive impact.”
Analysis: Words like “struggling,” “overwhelmed,” “step up,” and “accomplishment” enhance your lexical resource. Mentioning specific actions like “organized a meeting,” “created a prioritized action plan” shows coherence and clear, structured storytelling.
team meeting
Follow-Up Questions and Suggested Answers
Question: How important is it to take the initiative at work?
Suggested Answer: “It’s extremely important. Taking the initiative can lead to increased efficiency and productivity. It shows that you’re proactive and willing to go beyond your usual responsibilities to ensure successful outcomes. This can also create a positive work environment and motivate others to do the same.”
Question: Why do some people hesitate to take the initiative?
Suggested Answer: “Many people hesitate because they fear making mistakes or facing rejection. They might also feel that it’s not their place to take charge, especially in hierarchical workplaces. However, overcoming this hesitation is crucial for personal and professional growth.”
Part 3: Two-Way Discussion
Example Questions and Suggested Answers
Question: In your opinion, are leaders born or made?
Suggested Answer: “I believe leaders can be made. While some individuals may have natural leadership traits, most of the skills required for effective leadership, such as communication, empathy, and strategic thinking, can be developed through experience and learning. Organizations should invest in leadership training to cultivate these qualities.”
Question: How can taking the initiative impact your career progression?
Suggested Answer: “Taking the initiative can significantly accelerate career progression. It demonstrates ambition and a strong work ethic, qualities that are highly valued in any organization. When you take on additional responsibilities or create solutions to problems, it can lead to promotions and greater opportunities for advancement.”
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for a High Score
Important Words and Phrases
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Initiative (/ɪˈnɪʃətɪv/): the ability to assess and initiate things independently.
- “She showed great initiative in starting the community project.”
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Overwhelmed (/ˌoʊvərˈwelmd/): feeling pressured due to a heavy workload or significant stress.
- “He felt overwhelmed by the number of assignments.”
-
Proactive (/proʊˈæktɪv/): acting in anticipation of future problems or needs.
- “Proactive employees are always looking for ways to improve.”
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Efficiency (/ɪˈfɪʃənsi/): the ability to accomplish tasks effectively with minimum waste of time and resources.
- “Improving efficiency is crucial for the company’s success.”
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Ambition (/æmˈbɪʃən/): a strong desire to achieve something, usually requiring determination and hard work.
- “Her ambition drove her to work tirelessly towards her goals.”
Example Usage in Sentences
- “Taking the initiative can often lead to outstanding career opportunities.”
- “Feeling overwhelmed by tasks is common, but organizing and prioritizing can alleviate stress.”
Examiner’s Advice for High Scoring
Here are some tips to practice and excel in the IELTS Speaking test:
- Practice Regularly: Speak English daily to improve your fluency.
- Record Yourself: Recording yourself can help identify areas for improvement.
- Expand Your Vocabulary: Use a wide range of vocabulary to avoid repetition.
- Seek Feedback: Practice with a partner or tutor and seek constructive feedback.
- Stay Calm and Composed: Anxiety can affect performance, so practice relaxation techniques.
Excel in your IELTS Speaking exam by applying these strategies and using the sample answers and cues provided. Remember, preparation and practice are key to achieving a high band score.
