The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about personal experiences, including times when candidates demonstrated determination. This topic is not only common in IELTS but also allows examiners to assess your ability to narrate events, express emotions, and use a range of vocabulary. Let’s explore how to effectively describe a time you were very determined in your IELTS Speaking test.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, the examiner may ask general questions about determination. Here’s a sample question with a suggested answer:
Question: Do you consider yourself a determined person?
Sample Answer: “Absolutely. I’d say I’m quite determined, especially when it comes to achieving my goals. For instance, when I set my mind on learning English, I committed to practicing for at least an hour every day, rain or shine. This determination has paid off, as I’ve seen significant improvement in my language skills over time.”
Part 2: Long Turn
For Part 2, you’ll be given a cue card with a topic. Here’s a sample cue card related to determination:
Cue Card:
Describe a time when you were very determined to do something.
You should say:
- What you were determined to do
- Why you were so determined
- What you did to achieve it
- And explain how you felt about the experience
Sample Answer:
“I’d like to talk about a time when I was extremely determined to improve my public speaking skills. This determination stemmed from a particularly embarrassing experience I had during a presentation at university.
The reason I was so determined was that I realized how crucial effective communication is, not just for academic success, but also for my future career. I set my sights on overcoming my fear of public speaking and becoming a confident presenter.
To achieve this goal, I took a multi-faceted approach. Firstly, I joined a local Toastmasters club, which provided a supportive environment to practice speaking. Additionally, I made it a point to volunteer for presentations in my classes, pushing myself out of my comfort zone. I also spent time watching TED Talks, analyzing the speakers’ techniques, and practicing in front of a mirror.
Looking back on this experience, I feel incredibly proud of my perseverance. It was challenging at times, and there were moments when I wanted to give up. However, seeing my progress was incredibly rewarding. This experience taught me the power of determination and how it can help overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles. It’s a lesson that has served me well in many other aspects of my life.”
Follow-up Questions:
- Did you face any setbacks during this process?
Sample Answer: “Absolutely. There were several instances where I stumbled during presentations or received critical feedback. However, I viewed these as learning opportunities rather than failures. Each setback fueled my determination to improve further.”
- How has this experience changed you?
Sample Answer: “This experience has significantly boosted my self-confidence. It’s taught me that with determination and consistent effort, I can overcome my fears and develop new skills. This mindset has spilled over into other areas of my life, making me more resilient and ambitious in pursuing my goals.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In Part 3, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some potential questions with sample answers:
Question 1: Why do you think some people are more determined than others?
Sample Answer: “I believe that determination often stems from a combination of factors. Firstly, personal experiences play a crucial role. People who have overcome challenges in the past are likely to have developed a stronger sense of determination. Secondly, the environment one grows up in can significantly influence this trait. For instance, children raised in households that emphasize perseverance and hard work are more likely to exhibit determination in their own lives. Lastly, I think individual personality traits and innate drive also contribute. Some people naturally have a stronger desire to achieve their goals, which fuels their determination.”
Question 2: Do you think determination is always a positive trait?
Sample Answer: “While determination is generally considered a positive trait, I believe it’s not always beneficial in every situation. On the positive side, determination can help people overcome obstacles, achieve difficult goals, and push through challenging times. It’s often a key factor in personal and professional success. However, excessive determination can sometimes lead to negative outcomes. For example, if someone is so determined to achieve a goal that they neglect their health, relationships, or ethical considerations, it can be detrimental. Additionally, being overly determined might make a person inflexible or unable to recognize when it’s time to change course. Therefore, I think it’s important to balance determination with flexibility and a willingness to reassess one’s goals when necessary.”
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
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Stem from (/stem frəm/) – phrasal verb: to originate from or be caused by
Example: “My determination stemmed from a desire to prove myself.” -
Set one’s sights on (/set wʌnz saɪts ɒn/) – idiom: to decide to achieve something
Example: “I set my sights on getting a promotion this year.” -
Multi-faceted approach (/ˌmʌltiˈfæsɪtɪd əˈprəʊtʃ/) – noun phrase: a strategy that has several different aspects or features
Example: “We took a multi-faceted approach to solving the problem.” -
Push oneself out of one’s comfort zone (/pʊʃ wʌnˈself aʊt əv wʌnz ˈkʌmfət zəʊn/) – idiom: to make oneself do something difficult or frightening in order to improve
Example: “Learning to speak in public really pushed me out of my comfort zone.” -
Serve someone well (/sɜːv ˈsʌmwʌn wel/) – phrase: to be very useful or beneficial to someone
Example: “The skills I learned have served me well in my career.”
Examiner’s Advice
To score high in the IELTS Speaking test when describing a time you were determined:
- Use a range of vocabulary related to determination, perseverance, and overcoming challenges.
- Structure your answer clearly, especially in Part 2, following the cue card prompts.
- Provide specific examples and details to support your points.
- Show your ability to discuss abstract ideas in Part 3 by considering different perspectives.
- Practice speaking about your experiences of determination regularly to improve fluency and confidence.
Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is not just about what you say, but how you say it. Demonstrating fluency, a wide vocabulary range, and the ability to express complex ideas will help you achieve a high score.
For more tips on describing personal qualities and experiences in IELTS Speaking, check out our guides on how to describe a person who is very hardworking and describing a time when you had to push yourself to achieve something.