IELTS Speaking Part 2, also known as the “long turn,” is your chance to shine and show off your English skills. To truly impress, it’s not just about talking for a while, but about crafting detailed, captivating responses that flow naturally. Here are some insider tips to elevate your answers and make a lasting impression on the examiner.
Level Up Your Language Game
Unleash the Power of Subordinate Clauses
These little grammatical gems can add depth and complexity to your sentences. Instead of simply stating, “I love cooking,” you could say, “I love cooking because it allows me to express my creativity and experiment with different flavors, which I find incredibly satisfying.” See the difference?
Craft Complex Sentences
Don’t be afraid to combine multiple ideas into longer, more sophisticated sentences. For instance, “Last year, I visited the breathtaking Amalfi Coast in Italy, where I indulged in delicious seafood pasta while overlooking the turquoise waters, creating memories that will last a lifetime.” This paints a vivid picture and showcases your linguistic prowess.
Time Travel with Tenses
Prove your mastery of English by using a variety of tenses. For example, “I’ve always been fascinated by history, and last year, I visited the ancient ruins of Pompeii, which transported me back in time and gave me a deeper appreciation for the past.” This demonstrates your ability to express events across different timelines.
Set the Scene
Don’t just give bare-bones answers. Provide context and background information to create a richer narrative. For instance, “My favorite movie is ‘Parasite,’ a Korean dark comedy thriller that explores themes of class inequality and social satire, which I found both thought-provoking and entertaining.” This gives the examiner a deeper understanding of your interests and opinions.
Compare and Contrast
Add a touch of sophistication by comparing and contrasting different aspects of your topic. For example, “While I love the convenience and excitement of city living, I sometimes crave the peace and quiet of the countryside, where I can reconnect with nature and enjoy a slower pace of life.” This shows you can think critically and see different perspectives.
Example Questions and Answers
Let’s see these techniques in action:
Question 1: Describe a memorable meal you have had.
You should say:
• When and where you had it
• What you ate
• Who you were with
• Why it was memorable
Answer:
One of the most memorable meals I’ve had was during a vacation in Kyoto, Japan, last summer. We dined at a traditional Japanese restaurant in the Gion district, known for its historic charm and geisha culture. The restaurant was an old wooden building with tatami mats and sliding paper doors, enhancing the authentic experience. We enjoyed a kaiseki dinner, a multi-course Japanese meal featuring delicacies such as sashimi, tempura, miso soup, pickled vegetables, and beautifully presented sushi. Each course was meticulously prepared, emphasizing seasonal ingredients and artistic presentation. I was with my close friends, who were also on the trip. Sharing this exquisite meal with them made the experience even more special, as we all appreciated the flavors, textures, and aesthetics of each dish. What made this meal particularly memorable was the combination of exquisite food, the traditional ambiance of the restaurant, and the company of good friends. It was not just a meal but a cultural experience that deeply connected us to the rich culinary heritage of Japan. The careful attention to detail in both the food and the setting created a lasting impression that I cherish.
