In the IELTS Speaking test, fluency, coherence, lexical resource, grammatical range, and pronunciation are the core criteria examiners evaluate. One common type of question that may arise in Part 2 of the IELTS Speaking exam is to “describe a time when you were very brave.” Understanding how to respond to such questions effectively can significantly boost your speaking score. This article will guide you through possible questions related to bravery, provide a model answer for Part 2 long turn, and offer tips for success.
Common Questions in Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, the examiner will ask you general questions about your background, interests, and daily activities. Questions may include:
- “Do you enjoy taking risks?”
- “What was the most challenging situation you have ever faced?”
Example Question and Suggested Answer
Question: “Do you enjoy taking risks?”
Answer:
“Personally, I think taking risks can be quite exhilarating, although I believe it’s important to assess the potential outcomes before diving into any risky endeavor. For instance, when I decided to start my own business, it was a significant risk, but the experience was incredibly rewarding as it taught me resilience and perseverance.”
Part 2: Long Turn
In this section, you’ll be given a cue card with a topic. You have a minute to prepare and you must speak for up to two minutes.
Cue Card Topic
Describe a time when you were very brave.
You should say:
- When it happened
- Where you were
- What you did
And explain why you think it was a brave thing to do.
Model Answer
Answer:
“One instance that stands out vividly in my memory when I had to be exceptionally brave occurred about three years ago. I was on a hiking trip in the mountains with a group of friends. It was mid-autumn, and the weather was unpredictable. As we were climbing, a sudden storm hit the area.
We were about halfway up the trail when the downpour began, making the ground extremely slippery and the visibility incredibly poor. Despite the daunting circumstances, I took initiative and guided the group to a nearby cave which provided temporary shelter from the relentless rain. I had to navigate through precarious terrain and ensure the safety of everyone, which was no small feat given the challenging conditions.
For me, this act was a test of courage because it required me to stay calm under pressure, make quick decisions, and maintain a level of composure that was necessary to prevent panic among my friends. Looking back, I’m proud of how I handled the situation, and it reinforced my belief in the importance of staying collected and resourceful during emergencies.”
Follow-up Questions and Answer Suggestions
Bullet Points
- “How did others respond to your actions that day?”
- “What lessons did you learn from this experience?”
Answer:
“Initially, there was some nervousness among my friends, but once we were all safe in the cave, they expressed gratitude and relief. This experience taught me the value of being prepared and decisive because, in critical moments, quick and accurate decisions can have a significant impact.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
This part involves a deeper discussion on the topic of the cue card. The examiner might ask more abstract questions related to bravery.
Example Questions and Suggested Answers
Question: “Do you think being brave is something people are born with, or can it be learned?”
Answer:
“I believe bravery is a combination of both innate courage and learned behavior. While some people might have a natural inclination towards fearless actions, most of us develop bravery through experiences and challenges we encounter in life. For instance, overcoming small hurdles builds confidence and resilience, which contribute to more significant acts of bravery in the future.”
Question: “Can bravery be demonstrated in everyday life, or is it reserved for extraordinary circumstances?”
Answer:
“Bravery can certainly be demonstrated in everyday life. It is not limited to extraordinary situations alone. Simple acts like standing up for what is right, voicing an unpopular opinion, or helping someone in need require considerable bravery. These daily acts of courage are just as important as facing a dangerous situation head-on.”
Vocabulary and Structures for High Scores
Enhancing your vocabulary and incorporating complex sentence structures can elevate your speaking score. Here are some key words and phrases:
Exhilarating /ɪɡˈzɪlərətɪŋ/ (adjective): very exciting and thrilling.
- “Skydiving was an exhilarating experience.”
Perseverance /ˌpɜːrsɪˈvɪərəns/ (noun): persistence in doing something despite difficulty or delay in achieving success.
- “Her perseverance in studying paid off with excellent exam results.”
Navigating /ˈnævɪɡeɪtɪŋ/ (verb): planning and directing the route or course.
- “He successfully navigated the team through the complex project.”
Composure /kəmˈpəʊʒər/ (noun): the state of being calm and in control of oneself.
- “She managed to maintain her composure despite the chaos.”
Examiner’s Advice for IELTS Speaking Success
- Practice Speaking Regularly: Frequent practice helps you become comfortable with the format.
- Expand Your Vocabulary: A rich vocabulary allows you to express ideas more precisely.
- Use Natural Intonation: Fluent and natural speech enhances comprehensibility.
- Stay Calm: Anxiety can hinder your performance; try to stay relaxed.
- Seek Feedback: Regularly ask for feedback on your speaking to identify areas of improvement.
By focusing on these aspects and preparing thoroughly, you’ll enhance your ability to tackle the IELTS Speaking test with confidence and achieve a high band score.
Bravery in the Mountains
Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is preparation, practice, and staying calm under pressure. Good luck!