When asked to describe an interesting animal, candidates should demonstrate their ability to provide detailed descriptions while showcasing advanced vocabulary and natural fluency. This topic frequently appears in IELTS Speaking tests and allows examinees to exhibit their language proficiency through vivid descriptions and personal opinions.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
Common questions include:
- Do you have any pets at home?
- What’s your favorite animal?
- Are you afraid of any animals?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“Actually, I’ve always been fascinated by animals, particularly cats. I currently have two Persian cats at home, and they’re absolutely adorable. They’re not just pets; they’re integral members of our family who bring so much joy and companionship to our daily lives.”
Part 2: Cue Card
Describe an animal you think is fascinating
You should say:
- What the animal is
- Where you saw it
- Why you find it fascinating
- And explain how you learned about this animal
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to talk about dolphins, which I find absolutely captivating. I first encountered these remarkable creatures during a marine biology documentary, similar to describe a documentary you watched recently.
These highly intelligent marine mammals have consistently amazed scientists with their cognitive abilities. What particularly fascinates me is their sophisticated communication system using echolocation. They can produce up to 1,000 clicking sounds per second to navigate and locate prey.
I distinctly remember watching them at an oceanarium in Singapore, where their graceful movements and playful nature left me spellbound. Their ability to form complex social bonds and demonstrate empathy towards other species is truly remarkable.
My interest in dolphins grew through various scientific journals and nature documentaries. Like describe a person who is passionate about their hobby, I’ve become quite passionate about learning more about these extraordinary creatures.”
Sample Answer (Band 6-7):
“I want to talk about dolphins. I saw them at a sea park last year. They are very smart animals that can do many tricks. I like them because they are friendly and can swim very fast. I learned about dolphins from TV shows and the internet. They use special sounds to talk to each other and find food. I think they are very interesting animals.”
Part 3: Discussion Questions
Q: How do you think animals contribute to human society?
Band 8-9 Response:
“Animals make invaluable contributions to human society in numerous ways. Beyond their roles as companions, they play crucial parts in maintaining ecological balance, similar to how describe a natural landscape you’d like to visit showcases nature’s interconnectedness. They also serve in therapy, law enforcement, and scientific research, demonstrating remarkable adaptability and intelligence.”
Key Vocabulary and Phrases
- Captivating (adj.) /ˈkæptɪveɪtɪŋ/ – fascinating or engaging
- Remarkable (adj.) /rɪˈmɑːrkəbl/ – extraordinary or noteworthy
- Sophisticated (adj.) /səˈfɪstɪkeɪtɪd/ – complex or advanced
- Spellbound (adj.) /ˈspelbaʊnd/ – completely fascinated
- Integral (adj.) /ˈɪntɪɡrəl/ – essential or fundamental
Examiner’s Tips
- Use specific examples and personal experiences
- Demonstrate range of vocabulary
- Maintain natural flow and coherence
- Include relevant details and explanations
- Show enthusiasm and engagement with the topic
Remember to structure your response logically and support your points with specific examples, much like how describe a story from history that fascinates you requires organized storytelling.