Describing an online class you’ve taken is a common topic in IELTS Speaking exams. This subject has appeared frequently in past tests and is likely to remain relevant in future exams. To help you excel in this task, let’s explore effective strategies and sample answers for each part of the IELTS Speaking test.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask questions about your experience with online classes. Here’s a sample question with a suggested answer:
Q: Have you ever taken an online class?
A: Yes, I have. In fact, I recently completed an online course on digital marketing. It was a comprehensive six-week program that covered various aspects of online advertising and social media strategies. I found it incredibly convenient as I could access the lectures and materials at any time, fitting the coursework around my busy schedule.
Describe a time when you did something exciting can be similar to describing an engaging online class, as both involve sharing a memorable experience.
Part 2: Long Turn
Cue Card
Describe an online class you took.
You should say:
- What the class was about
- When you took it
- Why you chose this class
- And explain how you felt about the class
Sample Answer (Band 8-9)
I’d like to talk about an online photography class I took last summer. The course was titled “Mastering Digital Photography: From Beginner to Pro” and was offered by a renowned photography school.
I enrolled in this class in June 2022, primarily because I had always been passionate about photography but felt I lacked the technical skills to truly capture the images I envisioned. The course promised to cover everything from basic camera operations to advanced composition techniques and post-processing skills.
What drew me to this particular class was its comprehensive curriculum and the instructor’s reputation. The course was structured in a way that allowed for both theoretical learning and practical application, which I found incredibly appealing.
Throughout the six-week duration of the class, I felt a mixture of excitement and challenge. Each week brought new concepts and techniques to master, which was sometimes overwhelming but always rewarding. The instructor’s teaching style was engaging and accessible, making even complex topics easy to understand.
One aspect I particularly appreciated was the interactive nature of the course. We had weekly live Q&A sessions where we could ask questions and get immediate feedback on our work. This real-time interaction, despite being online, created a sense of community among the students.
By the end of the course, I felt a significant boost in my confidence as a photographer. Not only had I gained technical knowledge, but I had also developed a keener eye for composition and lighting. The class exceeded my expectations in many ways, providing me with skills that I continue to use and refine in my photography endeavors.
Student learning digital photography online
Follow-up Questions
Q: How did the online format of the class affect your learning experience?
A (Band 6-7): The online format was quite convenient. I could watch lectures whenever I had free time, which helped me balance the course with my other commitments. However, I sometimes missed the face-to-face interaction you get in a traditional classroom.
A (Band 8-9): The online format significantly enhanced my learning experience. It offered unparalleled flexibility, allowing me to revisit complex topics multiple times and pace my learning according to my needs. Moreover, the digital nature of the course meant that we could easily share and critique each other’s work through online galleries, fostering a collaborative learning environment that transcended geographical boundaries.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Q: Do you think online classes will eventually replace traditional classroom learning?
A (Band 6-7): I think online classes are becoming more popular, but they probably won’t completely replace traditional classrooms. Both have their advantages. Online classes are convenient and can reach more people, but face-to-face learning has benefits like direct interaction with teachers and classmates.
A (Band 8-9): While online classes have undoubtedly revolutionized the education landscape, I believe a complete replacement of traditional classroom learning is unlikely. Online education offers unparalleled accessibility and flexibility, breaking down geographical and time constraints. However, the tangible benefits of face-to-face interaction, such as immediate non-verbal feedback and the development of interpersonal skills, are difficult to replicate fully in a virtual environment. I anticipate a future where blended learning models become increasingly prevalent, combining the strengths of both online and traditional methods to create more dynamic and personalized educational experiences.
Describe a recent purchase you made could be relevant if you’ve bought any equipment or subscriptions for online classes.
Q: What skills do you think are essential for success in online learning?
A (Band 6-7): I think self-discipline and good time management are really important for online learning. You need to be able to motivate yourself and stick to a schedule without someone checking on you all the time. Being comfortable with technology is also helpful.
A (Band 8-9): Success in online learning hinges on a combination of self-directed learning skills and digital literacy. Paramount among these is self-discipline, as the autonomy of online learning demands a strong ability to manage time effectively and maintain motivation without external structure. Additionally, proficiency in digital tools and the capacity for virtual collaboration are crucial. The ability to engage proactively in online discussions and seek clarification independently also plays a vital role. Furthermore, adaptability is key, as online learners must navigate various digital platforms and adjust to evolving online learning methodologies.
Essential skills for online learning success
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
Comprehensive curriculum /ˌkɒmprɪˈhensɪv kəˈrɪkjələm/ (adj. + n.): A complete and thorough course of study.
Example: The online class offered a comprehensive curriculum covering all aspects of digital marketing.Interactive nature /ˌɪntərˈæktɪv ˈneɪtʃər/ (adj. + n.): The quality of allowing two-way communication or action.
Example: The interactive nature of the online forum allowed for lively discussions among students.Exceeded expectations /ɪkˈsiːdɪd ˌekspekˈteɪʃənz/ (v. + n.): Performed better than anticipated.
Example: The depth of content in the course exceeded my expectations.Unparalleled flexibility /ʌnˈpærəleld ˌfleksəˈbɪləti/ (adj. + n.): Flexibility that is better than any other.
Example: Online learning offers unparalleled flexibility in terms of study hours and pace.Blended learning models /ˈblendɪd ˈlɜːnɪŋ ˈmɒdlz/ (adj. + n. + n.): Educational approaches that combine online and traditional face-to-face methods.
Example: Many institutions are adopting blended learning models to provide the best of both worlds.
Describe a situation that made you angry could be relevant if discussing challenges faced during online learning.
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test when describing an online class:
- Use a variety of advanced vocabulary and complex sentence structures.
- Provide detailed and specific examples to support your points.
- Speak fluently and coherently, organizing your thoughts logically.
- Show your ability to discuss abstract concepts, especially in Part 3.
- Practice describing different aspects of online learning to improve your spontaneity.
Remember, regular practice and familiarity with common IELTS topics will help you feel more confident and perform better during the actual test. Good luck with your IELTS preparation!
Describe something you taught to your friend or relative could be an interesting topic to practice, as it relates to the learning process, similar to taking an online class.