As an IELTS instructor with over 20 years of experience, I’ve encountered countless students grappling with the IELTS Speaking test. One question that frequently arises, even at the beginner levels, is “What are you studying?”. While it might seem straightforward, this question can be surprisingly tricky to answer well, especially if you’re caught off guard.
This article delves into the nuances of this common IELTS Speaking prompt, providing you with the knowledge and strategies to deliver a confident and impressive response.
Understanding the Intent Behind “What Are You Studying?”
The examiner isn’t simply looking for a one-word answer like “Engineering” or “Medicine.” They’re interested in assessing your:
Fluency and Coherence:
Can you speak naturally and smoothly about your studies?
Vocabulary Range:
Do you use a variety of words and phrases related to education and your field of study?
Grammatical Accuracy:
Are you using correct grammar structures?
Pronunciation:
Is your pronunciation clear and easy to understand?
Crafting Your Response
Here’s a breakdown of how to structure your answer effectively:
1. State Your Field of Study Clearly
Begin by directly answering the question. Use clear and concise language.
For example:
- “Currently, I’m pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering.”
- “I’m a student at [University Name], majoring in Business Administration.”
2. Elaborate on Your Studies
Provide some context and details about your program.
- Mention specific subjects or modules you are currently studying: “This semester, my coursework is focused on thermodynamics and fluid mechanics, which are quite challenging but fascinating.”
- Explain the structure of your program: “The curriculum is a blend of theoretical lectures and practical lab sessions, giving us a well-rounded understanding.”
- Highlight any specializations or research areas: “I’m particularly interested in renewable energy sources, so I’m hoping to specialize in solar power technology later in my studies.”
3. Express Your Interest and Motivation
Why did you choose this particular field?
- Connect your studies to your passions: “I’ve always been fascinated by how things work, which drew me to the hands-on nature of engineering.”
- Explain your career aspirations: “I aspire to work in the automotive industry, designing more fuel-efficient vehicles.”
- Share any positive experiences related to your studies: “Recently, we had a guest lecture from a leading expert in robotics, which further ignited my interest in this field.”
4. Conclude Naturally
Wrap up your response concisely, leaving a positive impression.
- Reiterate your enthusiasm: “Overall, I’m thoroughly enjoying my studies and excited for the opportunities that lie ahead.”
- Look towards the future: “I believe this degree will equip me with the skills and knowledge to make a real contribution to the field.”
Example Response
Let’s put it all together:
Examiner: What are you studying?
You: “I’m currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Environmental Science at the University of California, Berkeley. My coursework covers a wide range of topics, from climate change modeling to conservation biology. I’m particularly drawn to research on sustainable agriculture, as I believe it’s crucial for addressing global food security. It’s a challenging field, but incredibly rewarding, and I’m eager to apply my knowledge to real-world solutions.”
Key Tips to Remember:
- Practice makes perfect: Rehearse answering this question and similar ones beforehand to build confidence and fluency.
- Be authentic: Speak passionately about your studies. Your enthusiasm will shine through!
- Keep it concise: Avoid rambling or providing excessive detail. Aim for a response that’s about 1-2 minutes long.
- Stay positive: Even if you have some challenges with your studies, focus on the aspects you find engaging and rewarding.
By following these tips and preparing thoroughly, you can confidently answer “What are you studying?” and create a positive first impression on the IELTS examiner. Good luck!