The topic of describing an online video that taught you something new is a common theme in IELTS Speaking tests. It has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to remain relevant in future tests. This topic allows examiners to assess your ability to articulate personal experiences, describe learning processes, and express opinions on digital content.
Describe a time when you learned something by watching a video is a closely related topic that may also come up in your IELTS Speaking test. Being prepared for both will give you an advantage.
Let’s break down the IELTS Speaking test and explore how to effectively answer questions related to this topic.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about online videos and learning. Here are some possible questions and sample answers:
- Do you often watch online videos?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“Yes, I frequently watch online videos. In fact, I’d say it’s become an integral part of my daily routine. I find them to be an incredibly convenient and engaging way to stay informed about current events, learn new skills, and even unwind after a long day. The variety of content available is truly astounding, ranging from educational tutorials to entertaining vlogs.”
- What kind of videos do you usually watch?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I have quite eclectic tastes when it comes to online videos. I’m particularly drawn to educational content, especially videos that break down complex topics in science and technology. I also enjoy watching culinary videos that showcase various cooking techniques and recipes from around the world. Additionally, I find myself gravitating towards thought-provoking documentaries and TED talks that offer fresh perspectives on social issues and personal development.”
Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)
Here’s a sample cue card related to the topic:
Describe an online video you watched that taught you something new.
You should say:
- What the video was about
- Where you watched it
- Why you decided to watch it
- And explain what you learned from it
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to talk about an enlightening online video I watched recently that taught me a fascinating new skill. The video was a comprehensive tutorial on the art of origami, specifically focusing on creating an intricate paper crane.
I came across this video while browsing through YouTube one evening. I was initially drawn to it because I’ve always been intrigued by Japanese culture, and origami is such an iconic representation of their artistic traditions. Moreover, I was looking for a new hobby that could help me unwind and improve my concentration, and origami seemed like the perfect fit.
The video was exceptionally well-produced, with clear, close-up shots of each fold and crease. The instructor’s voice was soothing yet engaging, which made the learning process both enjoyable and effective. What particularly stood out to me was how the instructor contextualized the art form, explaining its historical significance and the symbolism behind the crane in Japanese culture.
Through this video, I learned not just the technical aspects of folding a paper crane, but also the meditative quality of origami. The instructor emphasized the importance of patience and precision, which I found to be valuable life lessons extending beyond the craft itself. I was fascinated to discover how a simple square of paper could be transformed into such a beautiful, three-dimensional object through a series of precise folds.
This experience opened my eyes to the world of origami and inspired me to explore more complex designs. It also reinforced my belief in the power of online learning platforms to impart practical skills and cultural knowledge. Overall, this video not only expanded my artistic abilities but also provided me with a new way to practice mindfulness and appreciate the beauty of simplicity.”
Follow-up questions:
- How has this video changed your perspective on online learning?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“This video has significantly altered my view on online learning. Previously, I was somewhat skeptical about the effectiveness of learning practical skills through videos. However, this experience has shown me that with the right instructor and well-structured content, online tutorials can be incredibly effective. It’s made me more open to exploring other skills through online platforms and has highlighted the accessibility and convenience of digital learning resources.”
- Do you think online videos can replace traditional classroom learning?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“While online videos are undoubtedly a powerful learning tool, I don’t believe they can entirely replace traditional classroom learning. They certainly complement formal education and offer unique advantages such as flexibility and the ability to pause and replay. However, classroom learning provides invaluable face-to-face interaction, immediate feedback, and a structured environment that’s crucial for many learners. I think the future of education lies in blending these two approaches, leveraging the strengths of both online and in-person learning to create a more comprehensive and adaptable educational experience.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In this section, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to online learning and video content. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:
- How has the rise of online educational videos impacted traditional education systems?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“The proliferation of online educational videos has fundamentally transformed the landscape of traditional education systems. These videos have democratized access to knowledge, allowing learners from diverse backgrounds to access high-quality educational content that was once limited to formal institutions. This shift has prompted a reevaluation of traditional teaching methods and curriculum design.
Many schools and universities are now adopting blended learning approaches, incorporating online video content into their courses to enhance student engagement and provide more flexible learning options. This integration has led to the flipped classroom model, where students watch instructional videos at home and use class time for interactive discussions and problem-solving activities.
Moreover, the availability of online educational videos has fostered a culture of lifelong learning. People are no longer confined to learning within the walls of a classroom or during specific periods of their lives. This has challenged the traditional notion of education as a finite process and encouraged continuous skill development and knowledge acquisition.
However, this shift has also raised concerns about the quality and credibility of online content. Traditional education systems are now tasked with teaching students critical thinking skills to evaluate online resources effectively. Additionally, there’s a growing need to address the digital divide to ensure that all students have equal access to these online learning opportunities.
In essence, while online educational videos have undoubtedly enriched the learning experience, they have also compelled traditional education systems to adapt and evolve to remain relevant in the digital age.”
- What are the potential drawbacks of relying too heavily on online videos for learning?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“While online videos offer numerous benefits for learning, over-reliance on them can lead to several potential drawbacks. Firstly, the lack of direct interaction with instructors and peers can limit opportunities for immediate feedback and collaborative learning. This isolation may hinder the development of important social and communication skills.
Secondly, the self-paced nature of video learning requires a high level of self-discipline and motivation, which not all learners possess. Without external structure, some individuals might struggle to stay focused and complete their studies effectively.
Another concern is the potential for information overload. With the vast amount of content available, learners might find it challenging to discern quality information from unreliable sources, leading to confusion or misunderstanding.
Additionally, excessive screen time associated with video learning can lead to physical issues such as eye strain and poor posture. It may also impact sleep patterns if not managed properly.
Lastly, there’s a risk of developing a passive learning style. Unlike interactive classroom settings, video learning might encourage a more passive approach to education, potentially reducing critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
To mitigate these drawbacks, it’s crucial to strike a balance between online video learning and other forms of education, ensuring a well-rounded and effective learning experience.”
- How might the trend of learning through online videos evolve in the future?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“The future of learning through online videos is likely to be shaped by emerging technologies and changing educational paradigms. We can anticipate several exciting developments in this field.
Firstly, artificial intelligence and machine learning are poised to revolutionize online video learning. These technologies could enable personalized learning experiences, where content is tailored to individual learning styles, pace, and preferences. AI could analyze a learner’s progress and automatically adjust the difficulty level or suggest supplementary materials.
Virtual and augmented reality technologies are likely to enhance the immersive aspect of video learning. Imagine studying biology through a 3D virtual tour of a cell or learning about history by virtually walking through ancient cities. This level of immersion could significantly boost engagement and retention.
We might also see a rise in interactive video content, where learners can actively participate rather than passively watch. This could involve real-time quizzes, branching scenarios, or even AI-powered virtual tutors that can answer questions and provide instant feedback.
The gamification of learning through videos is another trend that’s likely to gain traction. By incorporating game-like elements such as points, levels, and rewards, educational videos could become more engaging and motivating, especially for younger learners.
Furthermore, we can expect increased integration of online video learning with formal education systems. Universities and schools might develop more sophisticated blended learning models, where online videos complement in-person instruction in innovative ways.
Lastly, as global connectivity improves, we might see a surge in cross-cultural collaborative learning through videos. This could involve real-time video interactions between students from different countries, fostering global understanding and cooperation.
In conclusion, the future of learning through online videos is likely to be more interactive, personalized, and immersive, leveraging cutting-edge technologies to create highly effective and engaging educational experiences.”
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
To enhance your speaking performance, consider using these advanced vocabulary items and phrases:
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Integral part (phrase) – /ˈɪntɪɡrəl pɑːrt/ – An essential or fundamental component
Example: “Watching educational videos has become an integral part of my learning routine.” -
Eclectic (adjective) – /ɪˈklektɪk/ – Deriving ideas, style, or taste from a broad and diverse range of sources
Example: “I have eclectic tastes in online videos, ranging from scientific documentaries to culinary tutorials.” -
Gravitate towards (phrasal verb) – /ˈɡrævɪteɪt təˈwɔːdz/ – To be attracted to or drawn to something
Example: “I find myself gravitating towards thought-provoking content that challenges my perspectives.” -
Enlightening (adjective) – /ɪnˈlaɪtnɪŋ/ – Giving new or valuable information
Example: “The video was truly enlightening, offering insights I had never considered before.” -
Contextualize (verb) – /kənˈtekstʃuəlaɪz/ – To place or study in context
Example: “The instructor did an excellent job of contextualizing the art form within its cultural background.” -
Meditative (adjective) – /ˈmedɪtətɪv/ – Relating to or characterized by meditation
Example: “I discovered the meditative quality of origami through this instructional video.” -
Democratize (verb) – /dɪˈmɒkrətaɪz/ – To make something accessible to everyone
Example: “Online educational videos have helped democratize access to knowledge.” -
Proliferation (noun) – /prəˌlɪfəˈreɪʃən/ – Rapid increase in numbers
Example: “The proliferation of online learning platforms has transformed the education landscape.”
By incorporating these words and phrases into your responses, you can demonstrate a rich vocabulary and sophisticated language use, which are key factors in achieving high scores in the IELTS Speaking test.
Describe an online video in which you learned something new is another way this topic might be phrased in the IELTS Speaking test. The strategies and vocabulary discussed in this article can be applied to answer this variation as well.
Examiner’s Advice
To excel in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when describing an online video that taught you something new, consider the following tips:
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Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and coherently. Focus on developing your ideas with relevant details and examples.
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Work on expanding your vocabulary, especially words related to technology, education, and learning processes. Use these words naturally in your responses.
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Pay attention to your pronunciation and intonation. Clear pronunciation and natural intonation can significantly improve your fluency score.
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When describing the video and what you learned, try to use a variety of tenses accurately. This demonstrates your grammatical range and accuracy.
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Show your ability to express and justify opinions, especially in Part 3 of the test. Don’t just state facts; explain your reasoning and provide balanced arguments.
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Practice speaking for 2 minutes uninterrupted for Part 2. Time yourself to ensure you can speak for the full duration without running out of things to say.
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Listen carefully to the questions asked and address all parts of the question in your response. This is particularly important for the cue card in Part 2.
Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is practice and preparation. Regularly engaging with English content, including online videos, can help improve your language skills and provide you with interesting topics to discuss during the test.
Describe an online video that taught you something new is a topic that allows you to showcase your ability to narrate personal experiences and reflect on your learning process. By following these tips and using the sample answers as inspiration, you can confidently approach this topic in your IELTS Speaking test.