As an IELTS instructor with over 20 years of experience, I’ve encountered this question countless times. “What’s your major?” or variations like “What do you study?” or “What’s your field of study?” are staples in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly in Part 1. This seemingly simple question can actually reveal a lot about your vocabulary, fluency, and ability to elaborate on familiar topics. Let’s delve into why it’s so important and how you can craft an impressive response.
Why the IELTS Speaking Test Asks About Your Major
The examiner isn’t necessarily interested in the intricate details of your chosen field. Instead, they are assessing:
- Vocabulary Range: Can you use subject-specific vocabulary accurately?
- Fluency and Coherence: Can you speak smoothly and connect your ideas logically?
- Grammatical Accuracy: Are you using correct grammar and sentence structures?
- Pronunciation and Intonation: Are you clear and easy to understand?
Crafting Your Perfect Response
Here’s a breakdown of how to formulate a strong answer when asked about your major:
1. State Your Major Clearly:
Begin with a clear and concise statement of your major.
- “I’m currently majoring in Computer Science.”
- “My field of study is English Literature.”
- “I’m a student of Mechanical Engineering.”
2. Provide Context and Elaboration:
Don’t stop at just stating your major. Expand on your response by:
- Explaining your choice: “I chose this major because I’ve always been passionate about…”
- Describing your coursework: “My studies focus on areas like…”
- Mentioning your career aspirations: “I hope to pursue a career in…”
3. Showcase Your Vocabulary:
This is your chance to demonstrate your vocabulary within the context of your major. Use specific terms and avoid generic language.
- Instead of: “I learn about computers,” say: “I study algorithms, data structures, and software development.”
- Instead of: “History is interesting,” say: “I’m particularly drawn to the sociopolitical complexities of 20th-century history.”
4. Maintain Natural Flow:
Speak naturally and try to connect your ideas smoothly using linking words and phrases:
- “Furthermore,” “Moreover,” “In addition to…”
- “This interest led me to…”
- “One aspect I find particularly fascinating is…”
Example Responses:
Here are examples demonstrating how to apply these tips:
Prompt: “What’s your major?”
Example 1 (Computer Science):
“I’m majoring in Computer Science. I’ve always been fascinated by technology and its potential to solve complex problems. My coursework covers programming languages, software development, and artificial intelligence. I find the field incredibly dynamic and I’m excited to explore career opportunities in software engineering.”
Example 2 (English Literature):
“My field of study is English Literature. I’ve always loved reading and analyzing texts, so pursuing a degree in this area felt like a natural choice. Currently, my studies are focused on Shakespearean dramas and their social context. I find it fascinating to delve into the language and themes of those plays.”
Key Takeaways
Remember, “What’s your major?” in the IELTS Speaking test is more than just a simple question about your studies. It’s an opportunity to showcase your language skills and impress the examiner. By preparing well, speaking clearly, and demonstrating your vocabulary, you can confidently tackle this question and excel in your IELTS Speaking test.