Learning new skills or knowledge is a fundamental part of human growth and development. In IELTS Speaking, you may be asked to describe a time when you learned something new. This topic allows you to showcase your ability to narrate experiences, express emotions, and reflect on personal growth. Let’s explore how to effectively tackle this topic and impress the examiner with your speaking skills.
Understanding the Topic
The theme of learning something new is a common one in IELTS Speaking tests. It’s a versatile topic that can appear in any part of the speaking exam, from Part 1’s introductory questions to Part 2’s long-turn task or Part 3’s abstract discussions. Examiners often use this topic to assess your ability to:
- Describe a process or experience
- Express feelings and opinions
- Use appropriate vocabulary related to learning and personal development
- Demonstrate your range of tenses, particularly past tenses
Let’s break down how you can approach this topic in each part of the IELTS Speaking test.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, you might encounter questions related to learning new things. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:
Sample Question 1: Do you enjoy learning new things?
Sample Answer: “Absolutely! I’m quite passionate about acquiring new knowledge and skills. There’s something incredibly fulfilling about expanding my horizons and challenging myself to learn unfamiliar concepts or techniques. Whether it’s picking up a new language or trying my hand at a new hobby, I find the process of learning deeply rewarding.”
Sample Question 2: What was the last new thing you learned?
Sample Answer: “The most recent skill I’ve acquired is digital photography. I’ve always been fascinated by the art of capturing moments, but I never really understood the technical aspects behind it. Over the past few months, I’ve been immersing myself in online tutorials and practical exercises to grasp the fundamentals of composition, lighting, and post-processing techniques. It’s been a steep learning curve, but I’m thoroughly enjoying the journey of honing this new skill.”
IELTS Speaking: Learning Photography
Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)
For Part 2, you might receive a cue card asking you to describe a time you learned something new. Here’s a sample cue card and response:
Sample Cue Card:
Describe a time when you learned something new.
You should say:
- What you learned
- When and where you learned it
- Why you decided to learn it
- And explain how you felt about learning this new thing
Sample Answer:
“I’d like to talk about the time I learned to cook Italian cuisine. This culinary adventure began about two years ago when I was living alone for the first time as a university student.
The decision to delve into Italian cooking was sparked by my love for the cuisine and the desire to eat healthier, home-cooked meals. I was tired of relying on takeaways and wanted to impress my friends with some gourmet dishes.
My journey started with online cooking classes and YouTube tutorials. I immersed myself in learning about different pasta shapes, the art of making the perfect tomato sauce, and the importance of using fresh, high-quality ingredients. I practiced religiously every weekend, starting with simple dishes like spaghetti aglio e olio and gradually progressing to more complex recipes like homemade ravioli and tiramisu.
The learning process was both challenging and rewarding. There were moments of frustration when my pasta would stick together or my sauce would be too watery. However, with each attempt, I gained confidence and honed my skills. The sense of accomplishment I felt when I finally mastered a difficult recipe was indescribable.
What I found most fascinating about this experience was how cooking connected me to Italian culture. I learned about the regional differences in Italian cuisine and the stories behind traditional dishes. It wasn’t just about following recipes; it was about understanding the philosophy behind Italian cooking – the emphasis on simplicity, quality ingredients, and sharing meals with loved ones.
Looking back, I feel incredibly grateful for this learning experience. It has not only expanded my culinary repertoire but also boosted my confidence in trying new things. The skills I’ve acquired have become a valuable part of my life, allowing me to create memorable meals and bring people together around the dining table. This journey has ignited a passion for cooking that I’m sure will stay with me for years to come.”
Follow-up Questions:
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Did you face any challenges while learning this new skill?
Sample Answer: “Certainly, there were several hurdles to overcome. One of the main challenges was perfecting the art of pasta making. It required a lot of practice to get the dough consistency right and to shape the pasta correctly. I encountered setbacks, like pasta sticking together or falling apart during cooking, but each mistake was a learning opportunity. Another challenge was sourcing authentic ingredients in my area, which sometimes required trips to specialty stores or ordering online. Despite these difficulties, I found that perseverance and patience were key to mastering the techniques.”
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How has learning this new skill impacted your life?
Sample Answer: “Learning Italian cooking has had a profound impact on various aspects of my life. Firstly, it has significantly improved my diet and overall health, as I now prepare fresh, balanced meals regularly. Secondly, it has become a wonderful way to socialize and connect with others. I often host dinner parties where I can showcase my culinary skills and share the joy of good food with friends. Moreover, this skill has boosted my confidence and opened doors to new experiences, such as joining cooking clubs and even considering a culinary tour of Italy in the future. It’s remarkable how a seemingly simple skill can enrich one’s life in so many unexpected ways.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In Part 3, the examiner might ask more abstract questions related to learning new things. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:
Question 1: Do you think the way people learn new things has changed with technology?
Sample Answer: “Absolutely, technology has revolutionized the learning landscape. The advent of online platforms, educational apps, and virtual reality has transformed how we acquire new skills and knowledge. These tools have made learning more accessible, flexible, and interactive.
For instance, massive open online courses (MOOCs) allow people to learn from top experts worldwide without geographical constraints. Gamification in educational apps has made learning more engaging, especially for younger generations. Virtual reality simulations provide immersive experiences in fields like medicine or aviation, allowing learners to practice in safe, controlled environments.
However, this technological shift also presents challenges. The abundance of information available online can be overwhelming, and learners need to develop critical thinking skills to discern reliable sources. There’s also the risk of decreased face-to-face interaction and hands-on experience in some fields.
Overall, while technology has undoubtedly enhanced learning opportunities, I believe the most effective approach is a blend of digital and traditional methods, leveraging the strengths of both to create comprehensive learning experiences.”
Question 2: In your opinion, what are the key factors that contribute to successful learning?
Sample Answer: “I believe several crucial elements contribute to successful learning. Firstly, intrinsic motivation plays a vital role. When learners are genuinely interested in the subject matter and see its relevance to their lives or goals, they’re more likely to persist through challenges and retain information long-term.
Secondly, an effective learning environment is essential. This doesn’t just mean a physical space conducive to concentration, but also a supportive atmosphere that encourages curiosity and allows for mistakes as part of the learning process.
Another key factor is the application of varied learning strategies. This includes techniques like spaced repetition, active recall, and teaching others, which have been proven to enhance understanding and retention.
Consistent practice and feedback are also crucial. Regular application of new knowledge or skills, coupled with constructive feedback, allows learners to identify areas for improvement and refine their understanding.
Lastly, I’d emphasize the importance of metacognition – the ability to reflect on one’s own learning process. When learners are aware of how they learn best and can monitor their progress, they can adapt their strategies for more effective learning.
In essence, successful learning is a multifaceted process that requires a combination of personal motivation, supportive environments, effective strategies, and self-awareness.”
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
To achieve a high score in IELTS Speaking when discussing learning new things, incorporate these sophisticated vocabulary items and phrases:
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To acquire (verb) /əˈkwaɪər/ – to gain or obtain something
Example: “I’ve acquired several new skills during my time at university.” -
To delve into (phrasal verb) /delv ˈɪntuː/ – to research or explore a subject deeply
Example: “I decided to delve into the history of photography to improve my understanding.” -
To grasp (verb) /ɡræsp/ – to understand or comprehend something
Example: “It took me a while to grasp the complexities of quantum physics.” -
Steep learning curve (phrase) /stiːp ˈlɜːrnɪŋ kɜːrv/ – a difficult and rapid learning process
Example: “Learning to code presented a steep learning curve, but it was worth the effort.” -
To immerse oneself (verb phrase) /ɪˈmɜːrs wʌnˈself/ – to involve oneself deeply in an activity or subject
Example: “To improve my language skills, I immersed myself in French culture and media.” -
To hone (verb) /həʊn/ – to refine or perfect a skill
Example: “I spent months honing my public speaking skills before the conference.” -
Culinary (adjective) /ˈkʌlɪnəri/ – related to cooking or the kitchen
Example: “My culinary adventures have introduced me to flavors from around the world.” -
To spark (verb) /spɑːrk/ – to trigger or initiate an interest or action
Example: “The documentary sparked my interest in environmental conservation.” -
Gourmet (adjective) /ˈɡʊrmeɪ/ – of high quality or specializing in fine food
Example: “I learned to prepare gourmet meals that impressed even my foodie friends.” -
To master (verb) /ˈmæstər/ – to gain complete knowledge or skill in a subject
Example: “It takes years of practice to truly master the art of photography.”
Tips from an IELTS Speaking Examiner
As an experienced IELTS Speaking Examiner, I recommend the following strategies to excel in describing a time you learned something new:
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Structure your answer: Use a clear introduction, body, and conclusion in your Part 2 response. This demonstrates good organization skills.
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Use a range of tenses: Since you’re describing a past event and its impact, incorporate past simple, past continuous, present perfect, and present tenses appropriately.
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Show, don’t tell: Instead of simply stating emotions, describe them vividly. For example, instead of saying “I was happy,” say “I felt a surge of excitement and pride when I successfully prepared my first authentic Italian dish.”
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Incorporate idioms and colloquial expressions: Use phrases like “It was a piece of cake” or “I bit off more than I could chew” to add flavor to your speech.
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Practice regularly: Familiarize yourself with various learning-related topics and practice describing them. This will help you build confidence and fluency.
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Reflect on personal experiences: Draw from your own life to make your answers more authentic and detailed.
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Develop your ideas: In Part 3, don’t just give short answers. Expand on your points, provide examples, and consider different perspectives.
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Speaking is not just about using advanced vocabulary, but about communicating your ideas clearly, confidently, and coherently. Good luck with your IELTS preparation!
For more tips on how to excel in other IELTS Speaking topics, check out our guides on how to describe a person who is very good at giving advice and how to describe a time you worked on a challenging project.