Speaking Part 2: Describe a skill
In this Speaking Part 2 task, you are asked to describe a practical skill you have learned and explain its significance.
Sample Question:
Describe a practical skill that you have learnt (e.g. cooking, driving). You should mention:
- What the skill is,
- How you learnt it,
- Why you learnt it, and
- How this skill has helped you.
Sample Answer:
Today, I am going to discuss the skill I acquired - driving, which I find extremely useful and utilize almost every day.
I first learned to drive a car when I was just 17 years old. In order to get the necessary training, my parents arranged driving lessons for me with a professional driving instructor. Through regular practice, I gradually familiarized myself with the basic operations such as steering, gear-changing, and effectively using the mirrors. After mastering these fundamental techniques, we moved on to more complex maneuvers like reversing and parking. Additionally, I had to study the highway code, which serves as a comprehensive guidebook about road signs and driving rules in the United Kingdom.
As a 17-year-old, I was primarily attracted to the physical aspect of driving, the excitement of accelerating along a road and successfully navigating corners. Furthermore, since many of my friends were already passing their driving tests, there was a certain amount of peer pressure involved. Moreover, driving represented independence and the beginning of adulthood; I suddenly gained the ability to visit friends' houses or travel to the city center without the need to rely on public transport which often involves walking or taking a bus.
The skill of driving has immensely benefited me in various aspects of my life. In the area where I reside, the public transport system is not very efficient. Consequently, I use my car for commuting to work on a daily basis. Owning a vehicle makes tasks such as grocery shopping or visiting friends and family significantly more convenient. A few weeks ago, I experienced a situation where my car was undergoing repairs, and I had to rely on walking to the train station and taking the train to get to work. This incident made me realize the importance of driving in my life and the ease it provides in daily routines and responsibilities.
