Fear is a common topic in IELTS Speaking tests, particularly when candidates are asked to describe personal experiences. Being well-prepared to discuss overcoming fears can significantly boost your performance, similar to how you might approach describe a task you found challenging but rewarding.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview Questions
Common questions about fear include:
- Are you afraid of anything?
- What were you afraid of as a child?
- Do you think people have different fears at different ages?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“Well, like many people, I used to be terrified of public speaking. However, I’ve gradually learned to manage this fear through extensive practice and positive self-talk. It’s fascinating how our fears can evolve and transform as we grow older.”
Part 2: Cue Card
Your task is to describe a time when you had to overcome a fear. You should say:
- What the fear was
- When this happened
- How you dealt with it
- And explain how you felt afterward
Sample Answer (Band 6-7):
“I want to talk about when I had to overcome my fear of heights. It happened last summer when my friends invited me to go rock climbing. At first, I was really nervous and kept making excuses. However, I decided to face my fear and joined them. The instructor helped me understand the safety equipment and taught me proper techniques. Step by step, I managed to climb higher. After reaching the top, I felt incredibly proud of myself.”
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to share my experience of conquering my acrophobia, or fear of heights. This transformative journey began when I voluntarily participated in an advanced rock climbing course last summer. Initially, I was absolutely petrified, but I was determined to push through my comfort zone. The professional instructor methodically guided me through safety protocols and gradually built up my confidence through progressive challenges. By the end of the session, I had not only reached unprecedented heights but also experienced an overwhelming sense of accomplishment.”
Just as with describe a time when you helped a friend solve a problem, structuring your response effectively is crucial.
Part 3: Discussion Questions
Q: Why do you think some people develop specific fears?
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I believe fears often stem from a combination of personal experiences and environmental factors. Some phobias might be deeply rooted in evolutionary survival instincts, while others could be triggered by traumatic experiences. It’s fascinating how our brains can associate certain situations with danger, even when there’s no rational threat.”
Professional Therapist Helping Client Overcome Fear
Q: How can society help people overcome their fears?
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“Society can play a pivotal role in helping individuals overcome their fears through various approaches. This might include providing access to professional therapy, creating support groups, and fostering an environment where discussing fears is normalized. Additionally, educational institutions could implement programs focusing on emotional resilience and coping strategies.”
For more examples of personal growth stories, you might find describe a recent goal you achieved helpful.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases
- Conquer/Overcome (v.) – to defeat or succeed in controlling something
- Phobia (n.) – an extreme or irrational fear
- Gradually (adv.) – slowly and steadily
- Push through (phrasal verb) – to continue despite difficulties
- Transformative (adj.) – causing a marked change
- Methodically (adv.) – in a systematic way
- Build up confidence (phrase) – to increase self-assurance
- Face your fears (idiom) – to confront what frightens you
Remember to practice these responses while maintaining natural speech patterns and appropriate body language, similar to preparing for describe an exciting activity you did recently.
