Teaching is a fundamental skill that many of us engage in throughout our lives, whether formally or informally. In the IELTS Speaking test, you may be asked to describe a time when you taught something new to a younger person. This topic is quite common and has appeared in various forms in past IELTS exams. It’s likely to remain relevant in future tests as it allows examiners to assess your ability to narrate experiences, express thoughts on education, and discuss intergenerational interactions.
Let’s explore how you can effectively address this topic in each part of the IELTS Speaking test.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask you general questions about teaching and learning. Here are some possible questions and sample answers:
Question: Do you enjoy teaching others?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I do enjoy teaching others. It’s satisfying to share knowledge and see someone understand something new. I’ve had a few experiences teaching my younger cousins, and it’s always been rewarding.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely, I find teaching others immensely gratifying. There’s a unique sense of fulfillment that comes from imparting knowledge and witnessing the moment when understanding dawns on someone’s face. I’ve had numerous opportunities to tutor younger students, and each experience has been both challenging and rewarding in its own way.
Part 2: Long Turn
In this section, you’ll be given a cue card with a topic to speak about for 1-2 minutes. Here’s a sample cue card related to our theme:
Cue Card:
Describe a time you taught something new to a younger person
You should say:
- Who you taught
- What you taught them
- How you taught them
- And explain how you felt about the experience
Band 6-7 Sample Answer:
I’d like to talk about a time when I taught my younger sister how to ride a bicycle. She was about 7 years old at the time, and I was 15.
I decided to teach her in our local park on a Sunday afternoon. First, I explained the basics of balancing and pedaling. Then, I held the back of her bike seat while she practiced pedaling. Gradually, I let go for short periods, allowing her to balance on her own.
The process took about two hours, with lots of encouragement and a few minor falls. But by the end of the session, she was able to ride short distances without my help.
I felt really proud and happy about the experience. Seeing her face light up when she finally rode on her own was amazing. It made me feel like a good big brother and gave me confidence in my ability to teach.
Band 8-9 Sample Answer:
I’d be delighted to share an experience where I had the opportunity to impart knowledge to a younger individual. The instance that springs to mind is when I taught my 10-year-old cousin, Emma, the intricate art of origami.
Emma had always been fascinated by the colorful paper cranes adorning my room, so I decided to introduce her to this Japanese craft. We began with the fundamental folds – valley, mountain, and petal folds – before progressing to more complex shapes.
My teaching approach was multi-faceted. I started with visual demonstrations, carefully folding each crease while Emma observed intently. Then, I guided her hands through the motions, helping her feel the precision required. As she gained confidence, I transitioned to verbal instructions, allowing her to fold independently while I offered encouragement and tips.
The experience was profoundly rewarding on multiple levels. Witnessing Emma’s frustration transform into determination and ultimately triumph as she completed her first crane was incredibly fulfilling. It rekindled my own passion for the craft and highlighted the joy of sharing knowledge.
Moreover, the process taught me valuable lessons about patience, clear communication, and the importance of breaking complex tasks into manageable steps. It was a mutually enriching experience that strengthened our bond and left me with a deeper appreciation for the art of teaching.
Describe a skill you taught to someone
Follow-up questions:
- Do you think you would make a good teacher? Why or why not?
Band 6-7 Answer:
I think I might be a decent teacher. I’m patient and I enjoy explaining things. However, I’m not sure if I have the skills to manage a whole classroom of students.
Band 8-9 Answer:
While I believe I possess some qualities that could make me an effective educator, such as patience, enthusiasm for sharing knowledge, and the ability to break down complex concepts, I recognize that professional teaching requires a diverse skill set. I excel in one-on-one tutoring scenarios, but classroom management and curriculum development are areas where I would need significant training and experience to become proficient. Teaching is a multifaceted profession that demands continuous learning and adaptation, which I find both challenging and intriguing.
- What qualities do you think are important for a good teacher?
Band 6-7 Answer:
I think good teachers need to be patient, knowledgeable about their subject, and able to explain things clearly. They should also be kind and understanding towards their students.
Band 8-9 Answer:
In my opinion, an exceptional teacher embodies a constellation of qualities. Profound subject knowledge is fundamental, but equally crucial is the ability to convey complex ideas with clarity and enthusiasm. A good teacher should possess empathy and emotional intelligence to understand and address the diverse needs of students. Adaptability is key, as every student learns differently. Moreover, the capacity to inspire curiosity and foster critical thinking sets apart truly remarkable educators. Lastly, I believe resilience and a growth mindset are essential, as teaching often involves overcoming challenges and continuously evolving one’s pedagogical approach.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In this section, the examiner will ask you more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:
Question: How has technology changed the way we teach and learn?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Technology has made a big difference in education. Now we have online courses and educational apps that make learning more accessible. Students can find information quickly on the internet, which wasn’t possible before. However, some people worry that too much technology might be distracting for students.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Technology has revolutionized the educational landscape in myriad ways. The advent of e-learning platforms and Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) has democratized access to education, allowing individuals from diverse backgrounds to engage with high-quality content from renowned institutions. Interactive learning tools and educational apps have transformed the way we absorb and retain information, catering to various learning styles through multimedia approaches.
Moreover, technology has facilitated collaborative learning on a global scale, enabling students to engage in cross-cultural exchanges and broaden their perspectives. The integration of Artificial Intelligence in education is paving the way for personalized learning experiences, adapting to individual student needs and pace.
However, this technological revolution is not without its challenges. Issues such as digital divide, screen addiction, and the need for digital literacy among both educators and students are significant concerns that need to be addressed. Striking a balance between technological integration and traditional teaching methods remains a crucial consideration in modern education.
Question: Do you think the role of teachers will change in the future? How?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I think teachers’ roles will change. With more information available online, teachers might become more like guides who help students find and understand information, rather than just giving lectures. They might need to focus more on teaching critical thinking skills.
Band 8-9 Answer:
The role of teachers is indeed likely to undergo a significant transformation in the coming years. As information becomes increasingly accessible, the teacher’s role may shift from being a primary source of knowledge to that of a facilitator and mentor. This evolution will likely place greater emphasis on developing critical thinking skills, fostering creativity, and nurturing emotional intelligence in students.
Teachers may need to become adept at leveraging technology to enhance learning experiences, curating digital resources, and designing blended learning environments. The focus might shift towards teaching metacognitive strategies – helping students learn how to learn effectively in an information-rich world.
Moreover, as automation and AI continue to advance, teachers may need to concentrate on developing uniquely human skills in their students, such as empathy, complex problem-solving, and adaptability. The concept of lifelong learning will likely become more crucial, with teachers potentially taking on roles as continuous learning coaches beyond traditional educational settings.
However, it’s important to note that while the methods and focus may change, the fundamental role of teachers in inspiring, motivating, and guiding learners will remain irreplaceable. The human connection and personalized support that skilled educators provide will continue to be vital in shaping well-rounded, thoughtful individuals.
Describe a skill you want to teach others
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
To enhance your IELTS Speaking performance, incorporate these sophisticated vocabulary items and phrases:
-
Impart knowledge (phrasal verb) – to pass on or communicate information to others
Example: As a mentor, I strive to impart knowledge that goes beyond textbook learning. -
Pedagogical (adjective) – /ˌpedəˈɡɑdʒɪkəl/ related to teaching methods
Example: Her pedagogical approach focuses on interactive learning experiences. -
Multifaceted (adjective) – /ˌmʌltiˈfæsɪtɪd/ having many different aspects or features
Example: Teaching is a multifaceted profession that requires various skills. -
Nurture (verb) – /ˈnɜrtʃər/ to encourage or help develop
Example: Good teachers nurture their students’ curiosity and creativity. -
Paradigm shift (noun phrase) – /ˈperəˌdaɪm ʃɪft/ a fundamental change in approach or underlying assumptions
Example: The integration of technology in education has led to a paradigm shift in teaching methods. -
Facilitate (verb) – /fəˈsɪlɪteɪt/ to make an action or process easier
Example: Teachers should facilitate independent learning rather than simply lecturing.
Examiner’s Advice
To excel in the IELTS Speaking test when discussing teaching experiences:
- Use a range of tenses accurately to describe past experiences and future possibilities in education.
- Incorporate idiomatic expressions related to learning and teaching to demonstrate language fluency.
- Provide specific examples from your personal experiences to support your points.
- Express opinions clearly and support them with logical reasoning.
- Use linking words to connect your ideas smoothly and coherently.
- Demonstrate critical thinking by discussing both advantages and challenges in educational contexts.
- Practice speaking on various education-related topics to improve fluency and confidence.
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Speaking is not just about using advanced vocabulary, but also about expressing your ideas clearly, coherently, and confidently. Regular practice and exposure to English-language media can significantly enhance your performance.
Describe a skill you learned from a family member
By following these guidelines and incorporating sophisticated language into your responses, you can significantly enhance your performance in the IELTS Speaking test when discussing teaching experiences or any related educational topics. Remember to practice regularly and seek feedback to continually improve your speaking skills.