As an IELTS instructor with over two decades of experience, I often encounter students who get flustered by seemingly simple Speaking test questions. One such question is “Do you like photos?” This question, while appearing straightforward, is designed to assess your ability to elaborate on your ideas, use descriptive language, and demonstrate a range of vocabulary related to hobbies and interests. Let’s delve into how to tackle this question effectively and impress your examiner.
Understanding the Question’s Purpose
The examiner isn’t just interested in a simple “yes” or “no” answer. They want to understand:
- Your ability to express personal preferences: Can you articulate what you like and dislike, and why?
- Your vocabulary range: Can you use a variety of adjectives and descriptive phrases related to photography and visual arts?
- Your fluency and coherence: Can you speak naturally and connect your ideas smoothly?
Crafting Your Response
Expressing Your Opinion
Start by clearly stating your preference. Instead of just saying “yes” or “no,” use phrases like:
- “Yes, I’m quite fond of photos…”
- “To be honest, I’m not particularly drawn to photos, but…”
- “I have a love-hate relationship with photos. While I enjoy…”
Providing Reasons and Examples
This is where you elaborate on your initial statement. Consider these aspects:
- Why do you like or dislike photos? Do you find them nostalgic? Do you appreciate their ability to capture moments in time? Or do you find them overwhelming or impersonal?
- What kind of photos do you prefer? Portraits? Landscapes? Black and white or color? Explain why these appeal to you.
- Do you have any personal experiences related to photos? Perhaps a memorable photograph you took, or a time when a photo sparked a conversation.
Example:
“Yes, I’m quite fond of photos, especially ones that capture candid moments. I find that posed photos can sometimes feel artificial, but candid shots have a certain authenticity that I really appreciate. For instance, I have a photo of my grandparents laughing together at a family picnic, and it always brings back such happy memories.”
Utilizing Rich Vocabulary
Instead of repetitive words like “good,” “nice,” or “beautiful,” strive to use more descriptive vocabulary:
- To describe photos you like: stunning, breathtaking, captivating, evocative, poignant, nostalgic, timeless, striking, vivid, powerful
- To describe photos you dislike: clichéd, staged, superficial, uninspired, impersonal, overwhelming, cluttered
Demonstrating Coherence
Use linking words and phrases to connect your ideas and ensure a smooth flow:
- Addition: Furthermore, Moreover, In addition to
- Contrast: However, On the other hand, While I enjoy… I’m not as fond of…
- Example: For instance, For example, A good illustration of this is…
Sample Answer
“Do I like photos? Absolutely! I find them incredibly evocative. I’m particularly drawn to black and white photographs; they have a timeless quality that I find very appealing. For instance, I recently visited an exhibition of photographs by Dorothea Lange, and her portraits of people during the Great Depression were incredibly powerful and moving. They truly captured the resilience of the human spirit during challenging times. While I appreciate color photography as well, I find that black and white images often have a greater emotional impact on me.”
Conclusion
Remember, the key to acing the “Do you like photos?” IELTS Speaking question is to go beyond a simple yes or no answer. Express your preferences clearly, provide specific examples, and use a wide range of vocabulary to create a compelling and engaging response. By following these tips, you can turn a seemingly straightforward question into an opportunity to showcase your English language skills.