The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about personal experiences and learning. One common topic is describing an important lesson learned outside of formal education. This article will provide sample answers and tips to help you excel in this type of question, which has appeared frequently in past IELTS exams and is likely to continue being a popular topic.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In the first part of the Speaking test, the examiner may ask general questions about your learning experiences. Here’s a sample question with a suggested answer:

Examiner: “Do you think people can learn important lessons outside of school?”

Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“Absolutely. I believe that some of the most valuable lessons in life come from experiences outside the classroom. Real-world situations often present challenges and opportunities for growth that can’t be replicated in a traditional educational setting. For instance, learning to navigate relationships, manage finances, or adapt to unexpected changes are all crucial skills that we typically develop through personal experiences rather than formal instruction.”

describe a valuable lesson you learned from someone

Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)

Here’s a sample cue card related to the topic:

Describe An Important Thing You Learned Outside Of School
You should say:

• What the lesson was
• How you learned it
• Why it was important
• And explain how it has affected your life

Sample answer (Band 6-7):
“I’d like to talk about an important lesson I learned outside of school, which was the value of perseverance. I learned this lesson when I was trying to learn how to play the guitar. At first, I found it really difficult and wanted to give up many times. But I kept practicing every day, even when my fingers hurt.

This lesson was important because it taught me that success doesn’t come overnight. It takes time and effort to get good at something. Now, whenever I face a challenge in my life, I remember my experience with the guitar. It has affected my life by making me more patient and determined. I don’t give up easily on things that are important to me, even when they’re hard.”

Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to delve into an invaluable lesson I acquired outside the realm of formal education, which was the profound importance of emotional intelligence. This enlightening experience occurred during my time volunteering at a local community center.

The lesson unfolded gradually as I interacted with people from diverse backgrounds, each facing unique challenges. I observed how those who could effectively manage their emotions and empathize with others were more successful in resolving conflicts and building strong relationships.

This lesson was particularly significant because it opened my eyes to a crucial aspect of personal and professional success that isn’t typically emphasized in traditional academic settings. Emotional intelligence, I realized, is often more important than raw intellectual ability in navigating complex social situations and achieving one’s goals.

The impact of this lesson on my life has been profound and far-reaching. It has transformed the way I approach interpersonal relationships, both in my personal life and in professional settings. I’ve become more attuned to the emotions of others, which has enhanced my communication skills and allowed me to build stronger, more meaningful connections. Moreover, it has boosted my leadership capabilities, as I’m now better equipped to motivate and inspire others by understanding and addressing their emotional needs.

In essence, this lesson has enriched my life immeasurably, providing me with a skill set that complements my academic knowledge and contributes significantly to my overall success and well-being.”

Important lesson learned outside school

Examiner: “How do you think this lesson compares to what you learn in school?”

Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“That’s an intriguing question. I believe this lesson complements formal education in a unique way. While school provides us with foundational knowledge and critical thinking skills, lessons like emotional intelligence often come from real-world experiences. They’re equally crucial but different in nature. School teaches us ‘what’ and ‘how’, but these life lessons often teach us ‘why’ and help us apply our knowledge in practical, nuanced ways. It’s the synergy between academic learning and life experiences that truly prepares us for the complexities of the real world.”

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

Examiner: “Do you think the education system should incorporate more real-life lessons?”

Sample answer (Band 6-7):
“Yes, I think it would be good if schools taught more real-life lessons. Many students finish school without knowing how to do important things like manage money or cook healthy meals. If schools included these topics, it would help students be more prepared for adult life. However, it might be challenging to fit everything into the school day, and some people might argue that these things should be taught at home.”

Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I firmly believe that integrating more real-life lessons into the education system would be immensely beneficial. While traditional academic subjects are undoubtedly important, there’s a compelling argument for broadening the curriculum to include practical skills that are essential for navigating adult life.

For instance, financial literacy is a critical skill that many young adults lack when they enter the workforce. By incorporating lessons on budgeting, investing, and understanding credit, we could empower students to make sound financial decisions from an early age. Similarly, teaching emotional intelligence, effective communication, and problem-solving in real-world contexts could significantly enhance students’ ability to thrive in both personal and professional spheres.

However, it’s important to acknowledge the challenges of implementing such changes. Curriculum design is a complex process, and there are already concerns about overloading students with too much information. Additionally, there might be debates about which life skills are universally essential and how they should be taught.

Striking a balance between academic knowledge and practical life skills would require careful planning and execution. Perhaps a solution lies in integrating these lessons into existing subjects or offering them as elective courses. This approach could provide students with a more holistic education without compromising on core academic content.

In conclusion, while there are challenges to overcome, I believe the potential benefits of incorporating more real-life lessons into the education system far outweigh the difficulties. It could lead to graduating students who are not only academically proficient but also better equipped to face the complexities of modern life.”

describe a memorable school project

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

1. Invaluable lesson /ɪnˈvæljuəbl ˈlesn/ (adj. + n.): An extremely useful or important lesson.
   Example: “The experience taught me an invaluable lesson about persistence.”

2. To delve into /delv ˈɪntuː/ (phrasal verb): To examine or investigate something thoroughly.
   Example: “I’d like to delve into the details of how this experience changed my perspective.”

3. Profound importance /prəˈfaʊnd ɪmˈpɔːrtns/ (adj. + n.): Having great significance or influence.
   Example: “The lesson was of profound importance in shaping my future career choices.”

4. To unfold gradually /ʌnˈfəʊld ˈgrædʒuəli/ (v. + adv.): To develop or reveal itself slowly over time.
   Example: “The true value of the lesson unfolded gradually as I applied it to various aspects of my life.”

5. To open one’s eyes /ˈəʊpən wʌnz aɪz/ (idiom): To make someone aware of something they hadn’t realized before.
   Example: “This experience really opened my eyes to the importance of cultural sensitivity.”

describe a person who has influenced your lifestyle choices

Examiner’s Advice

To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test, especially when discussing lessons learned outside school:

1. Use a variety of complex sentence structures to demonstrate your language proficiency.
2. Employ a wide range of vocabulary, including idiomatic expressions and phrasal verbs.
3. Provide specific examples to support your points and make your answer more engaging.
4. Show critical thinking by discussing both the positive aspects and potential challenges of the topic.
5. Practice speaking fluently about your experiences, focusing on maintaining a natural rhythm and pace.

Remember, the key to success is not just in what you say, but how you say it. Confidence and clarity in your delivery are just as important as the content of your answers.

describe a situation where you were forced to think outside the box

IELTS Speaking practice tips

By following these guidelines and practicing regularly, you can significantly improve your performance in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when discussing important lessons learned outside of formal education settings.