Introduction: Tackling Societal Issues in IELTS Speaking

The IELTS Speaking test is designed to assess your ability to communicate effectively in English on a variety of topics. One such area that often arises is societal issues, which can range from the environment and education to cultural norms and personal values. “Should we get married?” is a question that encapsulates many of these themes, making it a potentially rich discussion point during your IELTS Speaking exam.

While the topic might seem daunting at first, remember that the examiner is not evaluating your personal opinion but rather your ability to articulate your thoughts clearly, use a range of vocabulary, and demonstrate grammatical accuracy.

Understanding the Scope: “Should We Get Married?”

The question “Should we get married?” isn’t about providing a simple yes or no answer. It delves into the evolving perspectives on marriage, individual choices versus societal expectations, and the factors influencing these decisions.

Keywords and LSI to consider:

• Marriage: Traditional marriage, modern marriage, arranged marriage, love marriage, civil partnership, cohabitation
• Societal Expectations: Cultural norms, family pressure, religious beliefs, social status
• Individual Choice: Personal happiness, financial stability, career aspirations, freedom and independence
• Alternatives: Living together, singlehood, conscious uncoupling

Couple Contemplating Marriage

Navigating the IELTS Speaking Test

Part 1: Keeping it Personal

In Part 1, you might be asked general questions about marriage and relationships.

Example: “Is marriage important in your culture?”

Here, focus on providing a concise and clear response about your culture’s perspective. You can personalize it slightly by mentioning your family’s views or common trends you’ve observed.

Part 2: Developing Your Argument

Part 2 could present you with a cue card like:

“Describe a conversation you had with someone about whether or not to get married.”

• Who did you speak to?
• What were their reasons for or against marriage?
• How did this conversation make you feel?

Tips:

• Structure is key: Introduce the conversation clearly, outline both sides of the argument, and conclude by sharing your reflections.
• Vocabulary is crucial: Utilize a diverse range of vocabulary related to relationships, societal pressures, and personal values.
• Examples enhance your points: Briefly mention specific examples or anecdotes to illustrate your points effectively.

Part 3: Broadening the Discussion

Part 3 elevates the conversation to a more abstract level. Be prepared for questions like:

• “What factors influence people’s decisions about marriage today?”
• “Do you think marriage is becoming more or less important in modern society?”

Tips:

• Acknowledge different perspectives: Demonstrate your ability to consider various viewpoints, even if you don’t personally agree with them.
• Provide balanced answers: Avoid extreme opinions. Instead, acknowledge the complexity of the issue and present a nuanced viewpoint.
• Support your claims: Use reasons and examples to justify your stance. You can draw upon personal observations, historical context, or current events.

Conclusion

The key to successfully discussing “Should we get married?” or any societal topic in the IELTS Speaking test lies in preparation and thoughtful articulation. By familiarizing yourself with potential questions, expanding your vocabulary, and practicing structured responses, you can confidently express your ideas and achieve your desired IELTS score.