Looking to improve your how to improve ielts score in the IELTS Speaking test? The topic of describing a book is frequently tested, requiring candidates to demonstrate both language proficiency and critical thinking skills.
Part 1: Introduction Questions
Common questions examiners ask about books and reading:
- Do you enjoy reading books?
- What types of books do you usually read?
- How often do you read books?
- Do you prefer physical books or e-books?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I’m an avid reader and try to dedicate at least an hour each day to reading. I particularly gravitate towards non-fiction books, especially those focused on personal development and psychology. While I appreciate the convenience of e-books, I have a profound preference for physical books as they allow me to fully immerse myself in the reading experience.”
IELTS candidate discussing reading habits during speaking test
Part 2: Cue Card
Task Card
Describe a book that you read and found useful
You should say:
- What the book was about
- When you read it
- Why you found it useful
And explain how it influenced you
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to talk about ‘Atomic Habits’ by James Clear, which I thoroughly delved into last summer. This groundbreaking book meticulously explores the science behind habit formation and behavior change.
The author masterfully breaks down complex psychological concepts into digestible pieces, illustrating how tiny changes can lead to remarkable results. What particularly resonated with me was the concept of identity-based habits, where you focus on becoming the type of person who can achieve your goals rather than just focusing on the goals themselves.
This book has profoundly influenced my approach to personal development. I’ve implemented numerous strategies from it, such as habit stacking and environment design. For instance, I now consciously create systems that make good habits inevitable and bad habits impossible.
The knowledge I gained has been invaluable in transforming various aspects of my life, from my study routine to my fitness regimen. It’s not just a book you read once; it’s a reference guide that I frequently revisit for continued inspiration and guidance.”
Similar to describe an educational experience you had outside of school, this book has been a transformative learning experience.
Candidate describing influential book during IELTS speaking test
Part 3: Discussion Questions
Q1: How have reading habits changed in the digital age?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“The digital revolution has fundamentally transformed reading habits. People are increasingly gravitating towards bite-sized content and multimedia formats. However, this shift has also democratized access to knowledge, making literature more accessible than ever before. Just as describe a famous writer you enjoy reading, many authors are adapting their writing styles to suit modern readers’ preferences.”
Q2: What makes a book influential in society?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“A truly influential book captures the zeitgeist while offering fresh perspectives on universal themes. It needs to strike a delicate balance between being accessible and profound, much like describe a memorable experience from a school trip that stays with you forever. The most impactful books often challenge prevailing assumptions and spark meaningful discussions across different segments of society.”
Key Vocabulary and Expressions
- To thoroughly delve into (phrasal verb) – /ˈθʌrəli dɛlv ˈɪntu/ – to explore deeply
- To meticulously explore (adverb + verb) – /məˈtɪkjʊləsli ɪkˈsplɔː/ – to investigate carefully
- To profoundly influence (adverb + verb) – /prəˈfaʊndli ˈɪnfluəns/ – to affect deeply
- To consciously create (adverb + verb) – /ˈkɒnʃəsli kriˈeɪt/ – to deliberately make
- To fundamentally transform (adverb + verb) – /ˌfʌndəˈmɛntəli trænsˈfɔːm/ – to change completely
Just as describe an invention you wish had existed in the past, discussing books requires creativity and analytical thinking.
