In the IELTS Speaking exam, your ability to express ideas clearly, use a range of vocabulary and grammar, and demonstrate fluency and coherence are evaluated. One common topic that can appear in the Speaking test is “Describe a time when you tried something new.” This type of question assesses your narrative skills and your ability to describe personal experiences.
Understanding the popularity of such questions, we’ll delve into effective strategies, model answers, and additional guidance to help you excel.
IELTS Speaking Exam Overview
The IELTS Speaking exam is divided into three parts:
- Part 1: Introduction and Interview: General questions about yourself, your life, and your interests.
- Part 2: Long Turn: A cue card with a topic to discuss for 1-2 minutes, with 1 minute to prepare.
- Part 3: Two-way Discussion: More abstract questions related to the Part 2 topic to discuss in-depth.
Potential Questions in Part 1
In Part 1, the examiner may ask simple questions to get to know you better. Here are examples related to “trying something new”:
- Do you enjoy trying new activities? Why or why not?
- What new skill would you like to learn in the future?
Sample Answer for Part 1
Examiner: Do you enjoy trying new activities?
Candidate: Absolutely, I find trying new activities quite invigorating. It allows me to broaden my horizons and discover aspects of myself that I might not have been aware of. For instance, I recently tried rock climbing, which not only tested my physical endurance but also my mental strength.
Part 2 Cue Card: Describe a Time When You Tried Something New
Cue Card
Describe a time when you tried something new.
- What you did
- Why you did it
- How you felt before doing it
- How you felt after doing it
Model Answer for Part 2
One memorable experience of trying something new happened last year when I decided to take a cooking class. I’ve always been somewhat of a kitchen novice, usually avoiding complex recipes. However, I felt it was crucial to equip myself with culinary skills not only for the sake of self-reliance but also to explore different cultures through their cuisines.
Before joining the class, I was a bit apprehensive. The thought of making complicated dishes from scratch made me anxious. Nevertheless, I was also excited because I viewed this as an opportunity to step out of my comfort zone.
During the first class, we prepared a traditional Italian dish – lasagna. The instructor was very supportive, guiding us through each step meticulously. As the aroma of freshly baked lasagna wafted through the kitchen, my earlier apprehensions began to fade away.
After the class, I felt immensely proud of myself. Not only had I managed to prepare a delicious meal, but I also discovered a newfound passion for cooking. This experience boosted my confidence and inspired me to continue trying new recipes at home.
Additional Follow-up Questions
Here are potential follow-up questions for Part 2 with brief responses:
-
Did you face any challenges while trying it?
Yes, initially, following precise measurements and steps was challenging, but with practice, it became more manageable. -
Would you recommend this activity to others?
Absolutely, cooking not only provides a valuable life skill but also allows for creativity and personal expression.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In Part 3, examiner questions become more abstract and analytical. Here, the focus shifts to general trends and broader implications of trying new things.
Example Questions and Model Answers
Examiner: Why do people hesitate to try new activities?
Candidate: Many individuals hesitate to try new activities due to fear of failure or the unknown. This fear often stems from a lack of confidence in one’s abilities or the comfort of routine. Additionally, societal pressure and the fear of judgment can also deter people from stepping out of their comfort zones.
Examiner: How can schools encourage students to embrace new experiences?
Candidate: Schools can play a pivotal role by incorporating experiential learning in their curriculum. This can include field trips, workshops, and extracurricular activities that push students to explore varied interests. Fostering an environment that celebrates curiosity and promotes a growth mindset can also motivate students to embrace new experiences.
Tips for Success in the IELTS Speaking Exam
- Practice Fluently: Get comfortable speaking in English through regular practice. Join speaking clubs, use language exchange apps, or practice with friends.
- Expand Vocabulary: Keep a vocabulary journal of new words and phrases. Try to include varied vocabulary in your answers.
- Stay Coherent: Structure your answers clearly with a beginning, middle, and end.
- Use Real Examples: Use personal stories or experiences to make your answers more engaging and believable.
For additional resources and idiomatic expressions to boost your vocabulary, explore articles such as Keep Your Chin Up and Stretch The Truth. These can provide valuable content and advanced phrases suitable for high-band responses.
By understanding the structure of the IELTS Speaking exam and practicing with these strategies, you can elevate your performance and achieve a higher band score. Good luck!