As an IELTS instructor with over 20 years of experience, I often get asked by my students how to tackle the “reading books” topic in the IELTS Speaking test. It’s a common theme, and rightly so! Reading offers a window into culture, learning, and personal growth, all areas the IELTS exam aims to assess.
This article will delve into why this topic appears, how to formulate compelling responses, and provide practical tips to help you confidently discuss your reading habits and preferences.
Why “Do You Read Books?” Matters in IELTS Speaking
The IELTS Speaking test assesses your ability to communicate effectively in English. Examiners look beyond simple vocabulary and grammar; they want to see if you can articulate your thoughts and opinions clearly and engagingly.
The topic of reading allows you to demonstrate:
- Vocabulary range: From genres (fiction, non-fiction, biographies) to describing books (captivating, thought-provoking, informative), you can showcase a wide range of vocabulary.
- Fluency and coherence: Discussing a book’s plot, characters, or your overall impressions helps demonstrate fluency and your ability to connect ideas.
- Grammar accuracy: Using different tenses to discuss past reads, present habits, and future reading goals allows you to display grammatical range.
Mastering the “Do You Read Books?” Topic
1. Be Honest and Specific
There’s no need to pretend you’re a voracious reader if you’re not. Honesty is key. If you prefer articles or online content, be upfront about it. However, try to relate this back to your interests and how they might translate into book choices. For example, you might say:
“While I don’t read novels as often, I devour articles about technology and innovation. I find biographies of tech pioneers particularly fascinating.”
2. Showcase Your Passion
If you are an avid reader, share your enthusiasm! Talk about books that have impacted you, genres you adore, or authors you admire. Instead of simply stating you like fantasy novels, delve deeper:
“I’m drawn to fantasy because it allows me to escape reality and explore worlds with magic systems and complex characters.”
3. Use Descriptive Language
Instead of saying, “The book was good,” use vivid language to describe it:
- “The author’s writing style was so captivating; I couldn’t put the book down.”
- “The historical details were meticulously researched, transporting me back in time.”
- “The characters felt so real; I found myself laughing and crying alongside them.”
4. Structure Your Response
A structured response is easier to follow and demonstrates coherence. Consider using this framework:
- Introduce your reading habits: “I’m an avid reader and…” or “I tend to read more when…”
- Talk about a specific book or genre: “One book that really stayed with me is…”
- Explain why you liked/disliked it: “I enjoyed it because…” or “It wasn’t really my cup of tea because…”
- Connect it to your life/learning: “This book taught me…” or “It made me think about…”
5. Practice Makes Perfect
Practice talking about different books and articles. Think about what you enjoyed, what you learned, and how you would describe them to someone else.
IELTS Speaking Test Preparation
Example IELTS Speaking Questions and Answers
1. Do you like reading?
Yes, I’m an avid reader. I particularly enjoy historical fiction. I find it fascinating to immerse myself in different time periods and learn about historical events through a narrative lens.
2. What was the last book you read?
The last book I read was “Sapiens” by Yuval Noah Harari. It’s a non-fiction book that explores the history of humankind from the Stone Age to the present day. I found it incredibly insightful and thought-provoking.
3. Do you prefer reading physical books or e-books?
While I appreciate the convenience of e-books, I’m still quite attached to physical books. I love the feeling of turning pages and the tactile experience of holding a well-worn book in my hands.
Conclusion
Remember, the “Do You Read Books?” question in the IELTS Speaking test is not just about listing the books you’ve read. It’s about showcasing your ability to converse fluently and interestingly in English. By being genuine, using descriptive language, and demonstrating your passion for reading (or even your preference for other forms of learning), you can turn this potentially simple question into an opportunity to shine!
