The topic of describing a personal achievement is a common theme in IELTS Speaking tests, particularly in Part 2. This subject allows examiners to assess your ability to articulate experiences, emotions, and reflections in English. Given its frequency in past exams, it’s likely to remain a popular topic in future tests. Let’s explore how to excel in answering questions related to personal achievements across all parts of the IELTS Speaking test.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about achievements and pride. Here are some potential questions with sample answers:
Q: Do you often feel proud of yourself?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I do feel proud of myself sometimes. Usually, it’s when I accomplish something important or overcome a difficult challenge. For example, I felt really proud when I passed my driving test last year.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Indeed, I occasionally experience a sense of pride, particularly when I’ve pushed my boundaries or achieved a long-term goal. For instance, I felt an immense sense of accomplishment when I recently completed a marathon after months of rigorous training. It’s not just about the end result, but also the journey of self-improvement that makes me feel proud.
Part 2: Long Turn
Cue Card:
Describe something you are proud of achieving
You should say:
- What the achievement was
- When you achieved it
- How you achieved it
- And explain why you feel proud of this achievement
Band 6-7 Sample Answer:
One achievement I’m really proud of is passing my university entrance exam. I achieved this about three years ago, just after finishing high school.
To achieve this, I studied really hard for several months. I attended extra classes after school and on weekends. I also practiced a lot of past exam papers to familiarize myself with the format and types of questions.
I feel proud of this achievement because it was a very competitive exam. Only a small percentage of students who took the test were accepted into the university. It required a lot of dedication and hard work, and I’m happy that my efforts paid off. This achievement opened up new opportunities for me in terms of education and future career prospects.
Band 8-9 Sample Answer:
An achievement I’m particularly proud of is spearheading a community recycling initiative in my neighborhood. This accomplishment came to fruition about 18 months ago, after nearly a year of planning and hard work.
The journey to this achievement was multi-faceted and challenging. Initially, I conducted extensive research on effective recycling programs and their implementation. Subsequently, I drafted a comprehensive proposal and presented it to our local council. Once approved, I orchestrated a grassroots campaign to educate residents about the importance of recycling and the mechanics of our new program. This involved organizing workshops, creating informative materials, and leveraging social media platforms to spread awareness.
I feel an immense sense of pride in this achievement for several reasons. Firstly, it required me to step out of my comfort zone and develop new skills, such as public speaking and project management. Secondly, the initiative has had a tangible positive impact on our community, significantly reducing waste and fostering a more environmentally conscious mindset among residents. Lastly, seeing the community come together and embrace this change has been incredibly rewarding, reinforcing my belief in the power of collective action for the greater good.
IELTS Speaking – Describing a Proud Achievement
Follow-up Questions:
Q: How do you usually celebrate your achievements?
Band 6-7 Answer:
I usually celebrate my achievements by treating myself to something nice, like a good meal or a small gift. Sometimes I also share the news with my family and close friends.
Band 8-9 Answer:
When it comes to celebrating achievements, I prefer a two-pronged approach. Firstly, I believe in personal reflection – taking time to acknowledge my growth and the effort invested. This might involve journaling or meditation. Secondly, I enjoy sharing the moment with loved ones, perhaps through a special dinner or outing. I find that celebrating with others not only amplifies the joy but also creates lasting memories associated with the achievement.
Q: Do you think it’s important for people to have goals?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I think having goals is very important. Goals give people something to work towards and can motivate them to improve themselves. Without goals, people might not know what direction to take in life.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely, I believe goals play a pivotal role in personal and professional development. Goals serve as a roadmap for progress, providing clarity and direction in our often complex lives. They foster a sense of purpose and can significantly boost motivation and productivity. Moreover, the process of setting and pursuing goals can enhance self-awareness and resilience, as we learn to navigate challenges and adapt our strategies. However, it’s crucial to strike a balance, ensuring that our goals are both ambitious and realistic to avoid burnout or disillusionment.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Q: How do societal expectations of achievement differ across generations?
Band 6-7 Answer:
I think societal expectations of achievement have changed quite a bit over generations. In the past, people often focused on stable jobs and starting a family early. Now, younger generations seem to value personal growth and experiences more. They might prioritize travel or starting their own business over traditional markers of success.
Band 8-9 Answer:
The evolution of societal expectations regarding achievement across generations is indeed a complex and multifaceted phenomenon. Traditionally, success was often equated with tangible milestones such as homeownership, a stable career, and raising a family. However, we’re witnessing a paradigm shift in recent generations.
Millennials and Gen Z, for instance, tend to place a higher premium on experiences, personal fulfillment, and work-life balance. This shift can be attributed to various factors, including technological advancements, globalization, and changing economic landscapes. There’s a growing emphasis on entrepreneurship, digital nomadism, and careers that align with personal values rather than just financial security.
Moreover, the concept of lifelong learning and career pivots has gained traction, challenging the notion of a linear career path that was more prevalent in previous generations. This shift reflects a more fluid and adaptable approach to personal and professional development.
However, it’s crucial to note that these changes aren’t universal and can vary significantly based on cultural, socioeconomic, and individual factors. The interplay between traditional values and evolving aspirations often creates a unique set of expectations and pressures for each generation.
Generational Differences in Achievement Expectations
Q: In what ways do cultural differences influence perceptions of achievement?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Cultural differences can greatly influence how people view achievements. In some cultures, academic success is highly valued, while in others, entrepreneurship might be more appreciated. Some cultures might focus on individual achievements, while others value collective success more. These differences can affect what people strive for and how they measure success in life.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Cultural differences play a pivotal role in shaping perceptions of achievement, often leading to diverse and sometimes contrasting views across societies. This cultural lens through which achievements are viewed can significantly impact individual aspirations, societal norms, and even national policies.
In many Eastern cultures, for instance, there’s often a strong emphasis on collective achievement and harmony. Success might be measured not just by personal accomplishments, but by how one’s actions benefit the family or community. This can manifest in a preference for stable, prestigious careers that bring honor to the family name.
Conversely, many Western cultures tend to celebrate individual achievements and innovation. There’s often a greater emphasis on personal fulfillment and breaking new ground, which can foster a more entrepreneurial spirit and a willingness to take risks.
The definition of achievement itself can vary widely. In some cultures, spiritual or philosophical growth might be considered the highest form of achievement, while in others, material success or social status might take precedence.
Moreover, the timeframe in which achievements are expected can differ. Some cultures value early success and prodigies, while others respect the wisdom and achievements that come with age and experience.
It’s also worth noting that globalization is leading to a cross-pollination of ideas about achievement. This is creating interesting hybrid perspectives, especially among younger generations who are exposed to diverse cultural influences through technology and media.
Understanding these cultural nuances is crucial in our increasingly interconnected world, as it fosters empathy and enables more effective cross-cultural collaboration and communication.
Describe a time when you felt a sense of community can often be linked to achieving something collectively, which relates to how different cultures view achievements.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
To spearhead (verb) /ˈspɪəhed/ – to lead an attack or an important activity
Example: She spearheaded the campaign to reduce plastic waste in our city.To come to fruition (phrase) /kʌm tə fruˈɪʃən/ – to become real or successful
Example: After years of hard work, her plans for the business finally came to fruition.To step out of one’s comfort zone (phrase) – to do something that you find difficult or that makes you feel nervous
Example: Giving a presentation in front of a large audience really forced me to step out of my comfort zone.Paradigm shift (noun) /ˈpærədaɪm ʃɪft/ – a major change in the concepts and practices of how something works or is accomplished
Example: The internet caused a paradigm shift in how businesses operate and communicate.To foster (verb) /ˈfɒstə(r)/ – to encourage or promote the development of something
Example: The new policy aims to foster innovation in small businesses.
Describe a difficult task you completed at work or study often requires using vocabulary related to overcoming challenges and achieving goals.
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test when discussing achievements:
Provide specific details: Instead of general statements, give concrete examples and elaborate on your experiences.
Use a range of vocabulary: Incorporate advanced vocabulary and idiomatic expressions naturally in your responses.
Demonstrate critical thinking: Show your ability to analyze and reflect on your achievements and their impact.
Maintain fluency: Practice speaking at length about your achievements without long pauses or repetition.
Show enthusiasm: Let your pride and excitement about your achievements come through in your tone and expressions.
Connect ideas: Link your thoughts coherently and use appropriate transition words and phrases.
Remember, consistent practice and expanding your vocabulary are key to improving your performance. Consider recording yourself and analyzing your responses to identify areas for improvement.
Describe a significant accomplishment in your life can help you practice articulating your achievements effectively.
IELTS Speaking Practice Tips
By following these guidelines and incorporating rich vocabulary and complex sentence structures, you’ll be well-prepared to discuss your proudest achievements in the IELTS Speaking test. Remember, the key is to not only describe what you achieved, but also to articulate why it matters to you and how it has impacted your life or others around you. This level of reflection and analysis will demonstrate your English proficiency and critical thinking skills, helping you achieve a higher band score.
Describe a time when you felt proud of a family member can provide additional practice in discussing achievements from a different perspective.
Describe a time when you went out of your comfort zone is often closely related to achieving something you’re proud of, as many significant achievements require stepping outside our comfort zones.