Speaking Part 3: Longer answers
To give longer and more detailed answers in the speaking part 3 of the IELTS exam, you can use the following techniques:
- Keep asking yourself “why?”:
It is important to delve deeper into the reasons behind your initial answer. By constantly asking yourself "why?", you will be able to provide a more comprehensive explanation. For instance:
Question: Do you think that school children should be encouraged to have their own ideas, or is it more important for them to learn what their teachers give them?
Answer: I believe that it is crucial to encourage children to have their own ideas. (Why?) This is because allowing children to develop their creativity and individuality is vital for their personal growth and future success. (Why?) As adults, they will often face situations where they won't have someone to guide or instruct them. By nurturing their ability to think independently and solve problems, they can become more adaptable and self-reliant in the future.
- Explain the alternatives:
When discussing a topic, it is helpful to consider different perspectives or alternatives. This shows a broader understanding of the issue and enhances the depth of your response. For example:
Question: Do you think that school children should be encouraged to have their own ideas, or is it more important for them to learn what their teachers give them?
Answer: I believe that it is important for children to have their own ideas. (Why?) This is because it promotes critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills. (Alternatives?) On the other hand, if we only focus on what teachers provide, we risk stifling children's individuality and limiting their ability to think outside the box. By encouraging their own ideas, we allow them to challenge existing knowledge, generate innovative solutions, and become more engaged in their learning process.
- Give an example:
Supporting your answer with examples makes it more vivid and relatable. It demonstrates your ability to apply the concept in real-life situations. Consider the following example:
Question: Do you think that school children should be encouraged to have their own ideas, or is it more important for them to learn what their teachers give them?
Answer: I strongly believe that encouraging children to have their own ideas is essential. (Why?) This is particularly important because children need to develop the confidence to voice their opinions and make informed decisions. (Alternatives?) If they only rely on what teachers give them, they may become overly dependent and lack the necessary skills to navigate the challenges of adulthood. (Example?) For instance, a doctor may encounter a medical emergency that falls outside their training or textbooks. In such cases, their ability to think critically and independently can be life-saving, as they need to make timely decisions that could potentially save a patient's life.
By incorporating these techniques into your responses, you will be able to provide well-rounded, detailed answers in the speaking part 3 of the IELTS exam. It is important to practice applying these strategies in your preparation to enhance your speaking skills and achieve a higher band score.
