The IELTS Speaking test is designed to assess a candidate’s ability to communicate effectively in English. It is conducted in three parts: Part 1 (Introduction and Interview), Part 2 (Long Turn), and Part 3 (Two-way Discussion). Examiners evaluate candidates based on four criteria: Fluency and Coherence, Lexical Resource, Grammatical Range and Accuracy, and Pronunciation. Questions about government decisions are common in the exam due to their relevance and ability to provoke a detailed response.
In this guide, I will provide you with a detailed sample answer and strategic advice for handling the cue card topic, “Describe an important decision made by your government,” along with supplemental questions and tips to maximize your score.
Common Questions in Part 1: Introduction and Interview
Examples of Common Questions:
- “What do you do?”
- “Do you enjoy your work/studies?”
- “Do you think your government makes good decisions?”
- “Have you ever been affected by a government decision?”
Sample Answer for Part 1:
Examiner: “Have you ever been affected by a government decision?”
Candidate: “Yes, certainly. A recent decision by the government to implement stricter environmental regulations had a significant impact on my daily life. For instance, single-use plastics were banned, which encouraged me to adopt more sustainable habits like using reusable bags and containers. This decision, in my opinion, was crucial for promoting environmental awareness and responsibility among citizens.”
Part 2: Long Turn – Cue Card and Sample Answer
Cue Card Related to Topic:
Describe an important decision made by your government. You should say:
- What the decision was
- Why the decision was made
- Who the decision affected
- And explain why this decision was important
Sample Answer:
Candidate:
“An important decision made by my government last year was the introduction of a comprehensive healthcare reform policy. The decision was largely driven by the necessity to improve healthcare accessibility and affordability for all citizens, especially those in rural and underserved areas. This reform included the construction of new healthcare facilities, subsidization of medical treatments, and the implementation of a national health insurance scheme.
The decision directly affected millions of citizens who previously had limited access to medical services. By subsidizing treatments, the financial burden on low-income families was significantly reduced, leading to better health outcomes and increased productivity.
This decision was crucial because it addressed long-standing disparities in healthcare access and ensured that everyone, regardless of their socioeconomic status, could receive adequate medical care. Moreover, it highlighted the government’s commitment to improving the overall quality of life and well-being of its people.”
Healthcare Reform Impact
Follow-up Questions and Suggested Answers:
Examiner: “What were the challenges faced during the implementation of this decision?”
Candidate:
“One major challenge was the logistical aspect of building and staffing new healthcare facilities in remote areas. Additionally, there was resistance from private healthcare providers who were concerned about potential losses in profits. However, the government persevered by collaborating with local communities and providing incentives to private sectors to ensure a smoother transition.”Examiner: “How do you think this decision has affected public perception of the government?”
Candidate:
“I believe this decision has positively influenced public perception. The public appreciates the government’s effort to prioritize health care, which is a fundamental need. It demonstrated that the government was responsive to the concerns of its citizens and was willing to take bold steps to address them.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Examiner’s Questions:
Examiner: “What are the key factors to consider when the government makes a significant decision?”
Candidate:
“When making a significant decision, the government must consider the potential impact on all stakeholders, the financial feasibility, and the long-term benefits versus short-term gains. Additionally, public opinion and the current socio-political climate are crucial. For instance, in healthcare reforms, considerations included cost, accessibility, and public acceptance to ensure the decision’s sustainability and effectiveness.”Examiner: “How can governments balance economic growth with environmental sustainability?”
Candidate:
“Balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability requires an integrated approach that includes regulatory frameworks, incentives for green technologies, and public awareness campaigns. Governments need to promote industries that are both economically viable and environmentally friendly. For example, investing in renewable energy sources can create jobs while reducing carbon footprint, thus achieving both economic and environmental goals.”
Vocabulary and Key Expressions for High Scores
Important Vocabulary:
- Implement (verb) /ˈɪmplɪmɛnt/: to put (a decision, plan, agreement, etc.) into effect.
Example: The government decided to implement new environmental policies. - Subsidize (verb) /ˈsʌbsɪˌdaɪz/: to support (an organization or activity) financially.
Example: The government subsidized renewable energy projects. - Disparity (noun) /dɪˈspærɪti/: a great difference.
Example: There was a marked disparity in income distribution.
Useful Phrases:
- “Address long-standing disparities”: To deal with inequalities that have existed for a long time.
- “Highlight the government’s commitment”: To showcase the determination and dedication of the government.
- “Public perception”: How the public views or understands something.
Tips for Achieving a High Score
- Be Fluent and Coherent: Practice speaking smoothly and logically. Link your ideas naturally.
- Boost Your Lexical Resource: Use a range of vocabulary relevant to the topic and avoid repetition. Incorporate synonyms and advanced terms.
- Vary Your Sentence Structures: Utilize a mix of simple, compound, and complex sentences to show grammatical range and accuracy.
- Pronounce Clearly: Work on articulation, intonation, and stress to ensure clarity.
Conclusion
By practicing with cues related to significant government decisions and utilizing the tips provided, candidates can enhance their performance in the IELTS Speaking test. For further practice, you may find additional relevant topics useful, such as describe a time when you supported a cause, describe an important piece of news you heard, and others listed within our resources.