Speaking Part 2: Describe a website
In this speaking part 2 task, you will be asked to describe a website that you find helpful in your work or studies. Your response should include the following points:
- What the website is.
- How often you use the website.
- What information the website provides.
- How your work or studies would be impacted if this website did not exist.
Sample Answer:
The website that I would like to talk about is Wikipedia, an online encyclopaedia available for free. I frequently use this website for my studies as it offers an extensive range of information on practically any subject matter. I consider it as a valuable resource for obtaining an overview of topics before delving into books or academic articles.
I utilize Wikipedia whenever I need to verify factual information, which is quite often. Typically, I visit the site at least once a week during a normal week. However, if I am working on an assignment that requires thorough research, I may find myself visiting the website multiple times a day. For instance, just yesterday, while writing about the psychology of language learning, I spent over an hour cross-referencing factual details on various psychologists and their theories.
While Wikipedia covers a wide array of subjects, I find it particularly useful for understanding the historical context of the topics I study. As my field of interest lies in language learning, Wikipedia provides a plethora of fascinating articles on the different learning theories and methodologies proposed over the past century or so. Suppose, for example, I need to ascertain when the 'Communicative Language Teaching' approach was first introduced, who proposed it, and the reasons behind its development. In that case, I am confident that Wikipedia would have a dedicated page offering comprehensive insights into this topic.
If Wikipedia were to cease to exist, my research process would largely rely on the resources available at my local library, just as I did before the internet became a prominent source of information. During my university years in the 1990s, I recall spending considerable time in the library, scouring through piles of books, and meticulously taking notes. Despite the convenience and efficiency of online resources like Wikipedia, I hold fond memories of that time. Without the constant distractions of phones and computers, I genuinely enjoyed the serene environment of the old library building, leafing through tangible books. Thus, while I appreciate platforms like Wikipedia and the internet, I am confident that I could adapt and carry on even without them.
Study Task:
The sample answer provided above is deemed to be at a band 9 level, primarily because of the extensive range of relevant phrases and collocations it incorporates. Please make a note of these phrases and collocations as they can greatly enhance your speaking performance. Feel free to share your list in the comments section below.
