As an IELTS instructor with over 20 years of experience, I’ve encountered this seemingly simple question countless times: “Do you have a favourite teacher?”. While it seems straightforward, like all IELTS Speaking Part 1 prompts, it’s designed to assess more than just your vocabulary. It tests your fluency, coherence, grammar range, and ability to provide thoughtful responses. Let’s delve into how to approach this question effectively and confidently.
Understanding the Intent Behind the Question
Remember, the examiner isn’t actually interested in the life story of your favourite teacher. They are looking for your ability to:
- Extend your answer: Provide more than just a “yes” or “no” response.
- Provide reasons: Explain why you liked this particular teacher.
- Use descriptive language: Employ adjectives and adverbs to make your answer engaging.
- Demonstrate grammatical accuracy: Use a variety of sentence structures correctly.
Crafting Your Response
Here’s a breakdown of how to structure your answer, along with example responses:
1. Direct Answer:
- “Yes, I did have a favourite teacher.”
- “Absolutely! There was one teacher who really stood out for me.”
2. Teacher’s Name and Subject:
- “His name was Mr. Smith, and he taught us History.”
- “It was my English Literature teacher, Ms. Johnson.”
3. Reasons for Favouritism (Key Part):
- Teaching Style: “He had a knack for making history come alive. His lessons were always engaging and interactive.”
- Personality: “She was incredibly passionate about literature and her enthusiasm was contagious. She made me want to learn more.”
- Impact: “Mr. Smith challenged us to think critically and question everything. He instilled in me a lifelong love of learning.”
4. Optional: Brief Anecdote (Keep it Concise)
- “I remember one time, he dressed up as a historical figure to teach us about the French Revolution. It was unforgettable!”
Example Response:
“Yes, I did have a favourite teacher. Her name was Ms. Johnson, and she taught English Literature. What I admired most about her was her passion for the subject. She truly made the stories come alive and instilled in me a love for reading that I still hold today.”
Additional Tips
- Prepare beforehand: Think about teachers who’ve had a positive impact on you. Jot down some keywords and phrases that describe them.
- Be specific: Avoid vague responses like “He was nice” or “She was a good teacher.” Provide concrete examples to illustrate your points.
- Don’t memorize: While preparation is key, avoid sounding robotic. Speak naturally and conversationally.
Conclusion
The “favourite teacher” question, while seemingly simple, presents an excellent opportunity to demonstrate your English fluency and ability to deliver a well-structured, detailed response. By following the tips and strategies outlined above, you can confidently tackle this common IELTS Speaking Part 1 question and make a positive impression on the examiner.