IELTS Speaking: What to do when you are unfamiliar with a topic
When you encounter a question on a topic that you are not familiar with, there are two approaches that you can take to answer it effectively:
- Be honest and explain your lack of knowledge.
- Make an educated guess and inform the examiner that you are doing so.
Take a look at the following example that illustrates both tactics:
Question:
How has technology influenced the preference in music among young people?
Answer:
(1) To be honest, I am not well-versed in the current trends of music among young people as I am not actively engaged in that aspect, and I am not particularly fond of popular music.
(2) However, I can make an assumption that technology has had an impact on music. It is possible that young individuals are now drawn to music produced using computer software instead of traditional musical instruments like the piano or guitar.
Note:
You have the option to use either of these methods or to combine them, as demonstrated in the answer provided above. Now, give it a try for yourself!
Furthermore, it is important to keep a few additional points in mind when applying these strategies:
- Expand your vocabulary: Make an effort to familiarize yourself with a diverse range of topics and associated vocabulary. This will enable you to discuss various subjects with more confidence.
- Practice improvisation: Regularly practice responding to questions on unfamiliar topics by making use of the above strategies. This will help you develop your ability to think on your feet and effectively articulate your thoughts.
- Provide supporting details: Whenever possible, offer specific examples or details to further explain your responses. This demonstrates your ability to think critically and support your arguments.
Remember, the goal is not necessarily to provide a correct answer but to showcase your language skills and ability to express yourself coherently. Embrace the opportunity to improvise and showcase your speaking abilities!
