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IELTS Mentor
onMay 23, 2025

IELTS Writing Task 2: Sample Essays on Renewable Energy Subsidies for Band 6, 7, and 8

Should renewable energy be subsidized by governments? Explore sample IELTS essays analyzing government funding for clean energy vs healthcare/education. See Band 6-8 examples with detailed scoring explanations.
Renewable Energy Subsidies vs Public Services Dilemma
6 min read

Renewable energy subsidies have become an increasingly popular topic in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. This subject has appeared multiple times in recent years, reflecting its growing importance in global discussions on environmental sustainability and economic policy. Given its relevance, candidates should be well-prepared to address this topic in future IELTS exams.

Nội dung bài viết

Let’s examine a specific question that has been featured in past IELTS tests and is likely to reappear in various forms:

Some people think that governments should provide financial assistance to help develop renewable energy sources. Others believe that this money would be better spent on other important areas such as healthcare and education. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Analyzing the Question

This question requires candidates to:

  1. Discuss arguments for government subsidies on renewable energy
  2. Present counterarguments favoring spending on healthcare and education
  3. Provide a personal opinion on the issue

The essay should be balanced, addressing both viewpoints before concluding with a well-supported personal stance.

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8)

Governments worldwide face the challenging decision of allocating limited resources among various crucial sectors. While some advocate for financial support towards renewable energy development, others argue that these funds should be directed towards essential services like healthcare and education. In my opinion, a balanced approach that prioritizes both renewable energy and traditional public services is the most beneficial strategy for long-term societal well-being.

Proponents of government subsidies for renewable energy sources argue that such investments are critical for addressing climate change and ensuring a sustainable future. By providing financial incentives, governments can accelerate the transition to clean energy technologies, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating the impacts of global warming. Moreover, this support can stimulate innovation in the renewable sector, potentially creating new jobs and fostering economic growth. For instance, countries like Germany have successfully boosted their solar and wind energy industries through targeted subsidies, positioning themselves as global leaders in green technology.

On the other hand, those who prioritize spending on healthcare and education contend that these sectors form the foundation of a strong society. Investing in healthcare ensures a healthier population, reducing long-term medical costs and improving overall quality of life. Similarly, funding education equips citizens with the knowledge and skills necessary for personal and national development. Countries like Finland, which consistently ranks high in global education indices, demonstrate the profound impact of prioritizing educational investments.

In my view, the most effective approach is to strike a balance between these competing priorities. Governments should allocate resources to both renewable energy and essential public services, recognizing their interconnected nature in building a sustainable and prosperous society. By investing in renewable energy, countries can create healthier environments that indirectly benefit public health. Simultaneously, robust healthcare and education systems can produce the skilled workforce needed to drive innovation in clean energy technologies.

In conclusion, while the debate between funding renewable energy and traditional public services is complex, I believe that a nuanced strategy addressing both areas is crucial. Governments should seek synergies between these sectors, ensuring that investments in renewable energy complement rather than compete with essential services. This balanced approach will pave the way for a more sustainable, healthy, and educated society capable of tackling future challenges.

(Word count: 365)

Renewable Energy Subsidies vs Public Services DilemmaRenewable Energy Subsidies vs Public Services Dilemma

Explanation of Band 8 Score

This essay demonstrates the characteristics of a Band 8 response:

  1. Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both viewpoints and providing a clear personal opinion.

  2. Coherence and Cohesion: Ideas are logically organized with clear progression throughout. Paragraphs are well-linked, and cohesive devices are used effectively.

  3. Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used accurately and appropriately. For example, “allocating limited resources,” “mitigating the impacts,” and “fostering economic growth.”

  4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a variety of complex structures accurately. Errors are rare and do not impede communication.

  5. Development of Ideas: Each main point is well-developed with relevant examples and explanations, such as referencing Germany’s success in renewable energy and Finland’s educational achievements.

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

These days, there is a debate about whether governments should give money to support renewable energy or spend it on other important areas like healthcare and education. Both sides have good points, and I will discuss them before giving my opinion.

On one hand, people who support giving money to renewable energy say it’s important for the environment. If governments help companies develop things like solar and wind power, it can reduce pollution and fight climate change. This could also create new jobs in the green energy sector, which is good for the economy. For example, some countries have already seen benefits from investing in renewable energy technologies.

However, others believe that money should go to healthcare and education instead. They argue that these are basic needs for all people. Better healthcare means people can live longer and healthier lives, while good education helps people get better jobs and improve their lives. Many think that without strong healthcare and education systems, a country cannot develop properly.

In my opinion, I think both areas are important, but if I had to choose, I would say healthcare and education should come first. While renewable energy is crucial for the future, people need to be healthy and educated to solve environmental problems. Maybe governments could find ways to support both, like teaching about renewable energy in schools or using clean energy in hospitals.

To conclude, although renewable energy is very important, I believe that spending on healthcare and education should be the priority. However, the best solution might be to find a way to support all these areas together for the benefit of society.

(Word count: 279)

Explanation of Band 6-7 Score

This essay demonstrates characteristics of a Band 6-7 response:

  1. Task Achievement: The essay addresses all parts of the task, but the treatment of the two views and the writer’s opinion could be more fully developed.

  2. Coherence and Cohesion: There is a clear overall progression, but the use of cohesive devices is sometimes inaccurate or mechanical (e.g., “On one hand,” “However”).

  3. Lexical Resource: There is a sufficient range of vocabulary, but some repetition occurs. The language is sometimes imprecise (e.g., “good points” instead of more sophisticated alternatives).

  4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A mix of simple and complex sentence forms is used, with generally good control, though errors occur when more complex structures are attempted.

  5. Development of Ideas: Main ideas are present but could be more fully extended. Examples are given but are not as specific or well-developed as in the Band 8 essay.

Key Vocabulary to Remember

  1. Renewable energy (noun) – /rɪˈnjuːəbəl ˈenədʒi/ – energy from a source that is not depleted when used
  2. Subsidize (verb) – /ˈsʌbsɪdaɪz/ – support financially
  3. Allocate (verb) – /ˈæləkeɪt/ – distribute for a particular purpose
  4. Prioritize (verb) – /praɪˈɒrətaɪz/ – determine the order for dealing with a series of items or tasks according to their relative importance
  5. Mitigate (verb) – /ˈmɪtɪɡeɪt/ – make less severe, serious, or painful
  6. Sustainable (adjective) – /səˈsteɪnəbəl/ – able to be maintained at a certain rate or level
  7. Innovation (noun) – /ˌɪnəˈveɪʃən/ – a new method, idea, product, etc.
  8. Infrastructure (noun) – /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃə/ – the basic physical and organizational structures and facilities needed for the operation of a society or enterprise
  9. Transition (noun) – /trænˈzɪʃən/ – the process or a period of changing from one state or condition to another
  10. Synergy (noun) – /ˈsɪnədʒi/ – the interaction or cooperation of two or more organizations, substances, or other agents to produce a combined effect greater than the sum of their separate effects

Key Vocabulary for Renewable Energy EssaysKey Vocabulary for Renewable Energy Essays

Conclusion

The topic of government subsidies for renewable energy is likely to remain relevant in future IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on related themes such as:

  1. The role of government in promoting green technologies
  2. Balancing economic growth with environmental protection
  3. The impact of renewable energy on job markets and local economies
  4. Public opinion on climate change policies and renewable energy initiatives

Remember to structure your essays clearly, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and support your arguments with relevant examples. We encourage you to practice writing an essay on this topic and share it in the comments section for feedback and discussion. This active approach to learning can significantly improve your IELTS Writing skills.

IELTS Mentor
onMay 23, 2025
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IELTS Mentor
onMay 20, 2025

Mastering the IELTS Speaking Test: How to Describe a Time When You Felt Very Accomplished

Learn proven strategies for answering “describe a time when you felt very accomplished” in your IELTS Speaking test. Get expert tips, sample answers, and key vocabulary to boost your band score.
Large-scale fundraising event in the park
8 min read

The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about personal experiences and achievements. One common topic that frequently appears is describing a time when you felt very accomplished. This question allows examiners to assess your ability to articulate your thoughts, use appropriate vocabulary, and structure your response coherently. Let’s explore how to effectively answer this question and maximize your score.

Nội dung bài viết

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In Part 1, the examiner may ask some general questions related to accomplishments. Here are a few examples:

  1. Do you often feel accomplished?
  2. What kind of accomplishments make you feel proud?
  3. How do you celebrate your accomplishments?

Let’s look at a sample answer for the first question:

Examiner: Do you often feel accomplished?

Band 6-7 Answer:
“Yes, I’d say I feel accomplished quite often. I try to set goals for myself regularly, both big and small, and I feel a sense of achievement when I complete them. For example, I might feel accomplished after finishing a challenging project at work or even after tidying up my apartment.”

Band 8-9 Answer:
“I would say that I experience a sense of accomplishment fairly frequently. I’m a firm believer in setting both short-term and long-term goals for personal and professional growth. When I achieve these milestones, whether it’s successfully completing a complex project at work or mastering a new skill I’ve been practicing, I definitely feel a strong sense of accomplishment. However, I also try to appreciate the smaller victories in my day-to-day life, like maintaining a consistent exercise routine or helping a colleague solve a problem.”

Part 2: Long Turn

Here’s a sample cue card related to the topic:

Describe a time when you felt very accomplished.
You should say:

  • What the accomplishment was
  • When and where it happened
  • Who you were with
  • And explain why you felt so accomplished

Band 6-7 Answer:
“I’d like to talk about a time when I felt very accomplished. It was when I successfully organized a charity event for my local community. This happened last year in my hometown. I worked with a team of volunteers to plan and execute the event.

The accomplishment was organizing a fundraising run to support a local children’s hospital. We managed to get over 500 participants and raised a significant amount of money. It took place in the city park on a sunny Saturday morning.

I felt very accomplished because it was the first time I had taken on such a big responsibility. Seeing all the people come together for a good cause and knowing that our efforts would make a real difference to the hospital made me feel proud. The positive feedback from the participants and the hospital staff also added to my sense of achievement.”

Band 8-9 Answer:
“I’d like to share an experience that left me feeling incredibly accomplished. It was when I successfully spearheaded a major charity event in my local community. This milestone achievement took place last summer in my hometown, where I collaborated with a dedicated team of volunteers to bring this vision to life.

The accomplishment in question was organizing a large-scale fundraising run to benefit our local children’s hospital. We managed to surpass our expectations by attracting over 500 participants and raising a substantial sum that significantly exceeded our initial target. The event unfolded in our city’s central park on a gloriously sunny Saturday morning, creating a perfect backdrop for this community-driven initiative.

Large-scale fundraising event in the parkLarge-scale fundraising event in the park

I felt a profound sense of accomplishment for several reasons. Firstly, it marked my debut in taking on such a monumental responsibility. The sheer scale of the event and the logistical challenges we overcame were unprecedented in my experience. Secondly, witnessing the community rally together for a noble cause was incredibly heartening. The knowledge that our collective efforts would make a tangible difference to the hospital’s resources and, by extension, to countless young patients, filled me with an overwhelming sense of pride and purpose.

Moreover, the overwhelmingly positive feedback we received from participants, spectators, and hospital staff alike further reinforced my sense of achievement. It was incredibly rewarding to see how our hard work had not only met but exceeded everyone’s expectations. This experience bolstered my confidence in my organizational and leadership abilities, proving to myself that I could successfully execute complex projects with far-reaching impacts.”

Follow-up questions:

  1. How did this accomplishment change you?
  2. Do you think it’s important to celebrate accomplishments? Why or why not?

Band 6-7 Answer for question 1:
“This accomplishment changed me in several ways. It boosted my confidence and made me realize I’m capable of taking on big challenges. I also learned a lot about teamwork and project management, which has been useful in other areas of my life.”

Band 8-9 Answer for question 1:
“This accomplishment was truly transformative for me on multiple levels. It significantly boosted my self-confidence and expanded my perception of what I’m capable of achieving. The experience honed my leadership skills, teaching me how to effectively delegate tasks, motivate team members, and navigate unexpected challenges. Moreover, it ignited a passion for community service that has since become an integral part of my life. I’ve become more proactive in seeking out opportunities to make a positive impact, and I approach complex projects with a newfound sense of self-assurance and strategic thinking.”

A person standing confidently in front of a successful event setupA person standing confidently in front of a successful event setup

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

In Part 3, the examiner might ask more abstract questions related to accomplishments and success. Here are some examples:

Examiner: Do you think society places too much emphasis on individual accomplishments?

Band 6-7 Answer:
“I think there’s definitely a strong focus on individual accomplishments in many societies today. While it’s important to recognize personal achievements, sometimes this emphasis can be too much. It might lead to people feeling pressured to constantly achieve and compare themselves to others. However, individual accomplishments can also inspire others and drive progress, so it’s a complex issue.”

Band 8-9 Answer:
“This is a nuanced issue that merits careful consideration. On one hand, recognizing individual accomplishments can serve as a powerful motivator and inspire others to strive for excellence. It can foster innovation and drive societal progress. However, an excessive emphasis on individual achievements can have detrimental effects. It may create undue pressure and contribute to mental health issues like anxiety and depression, especially among young people. Moreover, it can overshadow the importance of collective efforts and undervalue roles that may not result in easily quantifiable accomplishments.

I believe a more balanced approach would be beneficial. We should celebrate individual successes while also recognizing the value of teamwork, community contributions, and personal growth that may not always result in tangible achievements. This could help create a more supportive and collaborative social environment.”

Examiner: How do cultural differences affect the way people view accomplishments?

Band 6-7 Answer:
“Cultural differences can have a big impact on how people view accomplishments. In some cultures, academic or professional achievements are highly valued, while in others, personal relationships or spiritual growth might be seen as more important. Some cultures focus on individual success, while others place more emphasis on group achievements. These differences can affect what people strive for and how they measure success in life.”

Band 8-9 Answer:
“Cultural differences play a significant role in shaping perceptions of accomplishments. These variations can be observed across multiple dimensions:

Firstly, the nature of valued accomplishments differs across cultures. In many Western societies, there’s often a strong emphasis on individual professional or academic achievements. Conversely, some Eastern cultures might place higher value on collective accomplishments or maintaining harmonious relationships.

Secondly, the timeframe in which accomplishments are viewed can vary. Some cultures, particularly those influenced by Confucian philosophy, tend to take a long-term perspective, valuing accomplishments that contribute to family legacy or societal progress over generations. In contrast, other cultures might focus more on immediate or short-term achievements.

Diverse group of people engaged in various activities representing successDiverse group of people engaged in various activities representing success

Moreover, the way accomplishments are celebrated differs culturally. In some societies, there’s a tendency to publicly acknowledge and celebrate individual successes, while others prefer more subtle or private recognition.

It’s also worth noting that globalization is increasingly blurring these cultural lines, leading to more hybrid perspectives on accomplishments in many parts of the world. This underscores the importance of cultural intelligence in our increasingly interconnected global society.

Understanding these cultural nuances is crucial as it affects not only personal motivations but also interpersonal dynamics in multicultural environments, be it in educational institutions or international business settings.”

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test, it’s crucial to use a wide range of vocabulary and complex sentence structures. Here are some key words and phrases that can help elevate your responses:

  1. Milestone achievement /ˈmaɪlstəʊn əˈtʃiːvmənt/ (noun): A significant or important achievement in one’s life or career.
    Example: Completing my master’s degree was a milestone achievement in my academic journey.

  2. To surpass expectations /tə səˈpɑːs ɪkˌspekˈteɪʃənz/ (verb phrase): To do better than what was expected.
    Example: The fundraising event surpassed our expectations, raising twice the amount we had initially aimed for.

  3. To spearhead /tə ˈspɪəhed/ (verb): To lead an activity or project.
    Example: I was given the opportunity to spearhead the company’s new environmental initiative.

  4. Profound sense of accomplishment /prəˈfaʊnd sens əv əˈkʌmplɪʃmənt/ (phrase): A deep feeling of achievement.
    Example: Crossing the marathon finish line gave me a profound sense of accomplishment.

  5. To bolster confidence /tə ˈbəʊlstə ˈkɒnfɪdəns/ (verb phrase): To increase or strengthen one’s confidence.
    Example: Successfully completing this challenging project really bolstered my confidence in my abilities.

Using these words and phrases appropriately can demonstrate your language proficiency and help you achieve a higher band score in your IELTS Speaking test.

Describe a famous actor from your country can be another interesting topic that might come up in your IELTS Speaking test. Being prepared for a variety of topics will help you perform better overall.

Examiner’s Advice

As an experienced IELTS examiner, I would offer the following advice to test-takers aiming for a high score in the Speaking test:

  1. Practice regularly: Consistent practice is key to improving your speaking skills. Try to speak English every day, even if it’s just talking to yourself.
  2. Expand your vocabulary: Learn new words and phrases related to common IELTS topics, and practice using them in context.
  3. Work on your pronunciation: Clear pronunciation is crucial for effective communication. Pay attention to word stress and intonation.
  4. Develop your ideas: Don’t just give short answers. Expand on your points and provide examples to support your ideas.
  5. Use a variety of grammatical structures: Demonstrate your language proficiency by using a mix of simple and complex sentence structures.
  6. Stay calm and confident: Remember, the examiner is there to assess your English, not to trick you. Stay relaxed and speak naturally.
  7. Listen carefully to the questions: Make sure you understand what’s being asked before you start answering.

Remember, describing accomplishments is just one of many topics you might encounter. Being prepared to discuss a wide range of subjects, such as describing a famous actor or singer from your country, will help you feel more confident during the test.

By following these tips and consistently practicing, you can improve your chances of achieving a high score in the IELTS Speaking test. Good luck with your preparation!

IELTS Mentor
onMay 20, 2025
Share
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Mastering IELTS Speaking: How to Effectively Describe Daily Technology Use

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Mastering IELTS Speaking: How to Eloquently Describe a Famous Historical Building in Your Country

IELTS Mentor
onMay 20, 2025

Mastering the IELTS Speaking Test: How to Describe a Time When You Felt Very Accomplished

Learn proven strategies for answering “describe a time when you felt very accomplished” in your IELTS Speaking test. Get expert tips, sample answers, and key vocabulary to boost your band score.
Large-scale fundraising event in the park
8 min read

The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about personal experiences and achievements. One common topic that frequently appears is describing a time when you felt very accomplished. This question allows examiners to assess your ability to articulate your thoughts, use appropriate vocabulary, and structure your response coherently. Let’s explore how to effectively answer this question and maximize your score.

Nội dung bài viết

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In Part 1, the examiner may ask some general questions related to accomplishments. Here are a few examples:

  1. Do you often feel accomplished?
  2. What kind of accomplishments make you feel proud?
  3. How do you celebrate your accomplishments?

Let’s look at a sample answer for the first question:

Examiner: Do you often feel accomplished?

Band 6-7 Answer:
“Yes, I’d say I feel accomplished quite often. I try to set goals for myself regularly, both big and small, and I feel a sense of achievement when I complete them. For example, I might feel accomplished after finishing a challenging project at work or even after tidying up my apartment.”

Band 8-9 Answer:
“I would say that I experience a sense of accomplishment fairly frequently. I’m a firm believer in setting both short-term and long-term goals for personal and professional growth. When I achieve these milestones, whether it’s successfully completing a complex project at work or mastering a new skill I’ve been practicing, I definitely feel a strong sense of accomplishment. However, I also try to appreciate the smaller victories in my day-to-day life, like maintaining a consistent exercise routine or helping a colleague solve a problem.”

Part 2: Long Turn

Here’s a sample cue card related to the topic:

Describe a time when you felt very accomplished.
You should say:

  • What the accomplishment was
  • When and where it happened
  • Who you were with
  • And explain why you felt so accomplished

Band 6-7 Answer:
“I’d like to talk about a time when I felt very accomplished. It was when I successfully organized a charity event for my local community. This happened last year in my hometown. I worked with a team of volunteers to plan and execute the event.

The accomplishment was organizing a fundraising run to support a local children’s hospital. We managed to get over 500 participants and raised a significant amount of money. It took place in the city park on a sunny Saturday morning.

I felt very accomplished because it was the first time I had taken on such a big responsibility. Seeing all the people come together for a good cause and knowing that our efforts would make a real difference to the hospital made me feel proud. The positive feedback from the participants and the hospital staff also added to my sense of achievement.”

Band 8-9 Answer:
“I’d like to share an experience that left me feeling incredibly accomplished. It was when I successfully spearheaded a major charity event in my local community. This milestone achievement took place last summer in my hometown, where I collaborated with a dedicated team of volunteers to bring this vision to life.

The accomplishment in question was organizing a large-scale fundraising run to benefit our local children’s hospital. We managed to surpass our expectations by attracting over 500 participants and raising a substantial sum that significantly exceeded our initial target. The event unfolded in our city’s central park on a gloriously sunny Saturday morning, creating a perfect backdrop for this community-driven initiative.

Large-scale fundraising event in the parkLarge-scale fundraising event in the park

I felt a profound sense of accomplishment for several reasons. Firstly, it marked my debut in taking on such a monumental responsibility. The sheer scale of the event and the logistical challenges we overcame were unprecedented in my experience. Secondly, witnessing the community rally together for a noble cause was incredibly heartening. The knowledge that our collective efforts would make a tangible difference to the hospital’s resources and, by extension, to countless young patients, filled me with an overwhelming sense of pride and purpose.

Moreover, the overwhelmingly positive feedback we received from participants, spectators, and hospital staff alike further reinforced my sense of achievement. It was incredibly rewarding to see how our hard work had not only met but exceeded everyone’s expectations. This experience bolstered my confidence in my organizational and leadership abilities, proving to myself that I could successfully execute complex projects with far-reaching impacts.”

Follow-up questions:

  1. How did this accomplishment change you?
  2. Do you think it’s important to celebrate accomplishments? Why or why not?

Band 6-7 Answer for question 1:
“This accomplishment changed me in several ways. It boosted my confidence and made me realize I’m capable of taking on big challenges. I also learned a lot about teamwork and project management, which has been useful in other areas of my life.”

Band 8-9 Answer for question 1:
“This accomplishment was truly transformative for me on multiple levels. It significantly boosted my self-confidence and expanded my perception of what I’m capable of achieving. The experience honed my leadership skills, teaching me how to effectively delegate tasks, motivate team members, and navigate unexpected challenges. Moreover, it ignited a passion for community service that has since become an integral part of my life. I’ve become more proactive in seeking out opportunities to make a positive impact, and I approach complex projects with a newfound sense of self-assurance and strategic thinking.”

A person standing confidently in front of a successful event setupA person standing confidently in front of a successful event setup

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

In Part 3, the examiner might ask more abstract questions related to accomplishments and success. Here are some examples:

Examiner: Do you think society places too much emphasis on individual accomplishments?

Band 6-7 Answer:
“I think there’s definitely a strong focus on individual accomplishments in many societies today. While it’s important to recognize personal achievements, sometimes this emphasis can be too much. It might lead to people feeling pressured to constantly achieve and compare themselves to others. However, individual accomplishments can also inspire others and drive progress, so it’s a complex issue.”

Band 8-9 Answer:
“This is a nuanced issue that merits careful consideration. On one hand, recognizing individual accomplishments can serve as a powerful motivator and inspire others to strive for excellence. It can foster innovation and drive societal progress. However, an excessive emphasis on individual achievements can have detrimental effects. It may create undue pressure and contribute to mental health issues like anxiety and depression, especially among young people. Moreover, it can overshadow the importance of collective efforts and undervalue roles that may not result in easily quantifiable accomplishments.

I believe a more balanced approach would be beneficial. We should celebrate individual successes while also recognizing the value of teamwork, community contributions, and personal growth that may not always result in tangible achievements. This could help create a more supportive and collaborative social environment.”

Examiner: How do cultural differences affect the way people view accomplishments?

Band 6-7 Answer:
“Cultural differences can have a big impact on how people view accomplishments. In some cultures, academic or professional achievements are highly valued, while in others, personal relationships or spiritual growth might be seen as more important. Some cultures focus on individual success, while others place more emphasis on group achievements. These differences can affect what people strive for and how they measure success in life.”

Band 8-9 Answer:
“Cultural differences play a significant role in shaping perceptions of accomplishments. These variations can be observed across multiple dimensions:

Firstly, the nature of valued accomplishments differs across cultures. In many Western societies, there’s often a strong emphasis on individual professional or academic achievements. Conversely, some Eastern cultures might place higher value on collective accomplishments or maintaining harmonious relationships.

Secondly, the timeframe in which accomplishments are viewed can vary. Some cultures, particularly those influenced by Confucian philosophy, tend to take a long-term perspective, valuing accomplishments that contribute to family legacy or societal progress over generations. In contrast, other cultures might focus more on immediate or short-term achievements.

Diverse group of people engaged in various activities representing successDiverse group of people engaged in various activities representing success

Moreover, the way accomplishments are celebrated differs culturally. In some societies, there’s a tendency to publicly acknowledge and celebrate individual successes, while others prefer more subtle or private recognition.

It’s also worth noting that globalization is increasingly blurring these cultural lines, leading to more hybrid perspectives on accomplishments in many parts of the world. This underscores the importance of cultural intelligence in our increasingly interconnected global society.

Understanding these cultural nuances is crucial as it affects not only personal motivations but also interpersonal dynamics in multicultural environments, be it in educational institutions or international business settings.”

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test, it’s crucial to use a wide range of vocabulary and complex sentence structures. Here are some key words and phrases that can help elevate your responses:

  1. Milestone achievement /ˈmaɪlstəʊn əˈtʃiːvmənt/ (noun): A significant or important achievement in one’s life or career.
    Example: Completing my master’s degree was a milestone achievement in my academic journey.

  2. To surpass expectations /tə səˈpɑːs ɪkˌspekˈteɪʃənz/ (verb phrase): To do better than what was expected.
    Example: The fundraising event surpassed our expectations, raising twice the amount we had initially aimed for.

  3. To spearhead /tə ˈspɪəhed/ (verb): To lead an activity or project.
    Example: I was given the opportunity to spearhead the company’s new environmental initiative.

  4. Profound sense of accomplishment /prəˈfaʊnd sens əv əˈkʌmplɪʃmənt/ (phrase): A deep feeling of achievement.
    Example: Crossing the marathon finish line gave me a profound sense of accomplishment.

  5. To bolster confidence /tə ˈbəʊlstə ˈkɒnfɪdəns/ (verb phrase): To increase or strengthen one’s confidence.
    Example: Successfully completing this challenging project really bolstered my confidence in my abilities.

Using these words and phrases appropriately can demonstrate your language proficiency and help you achieve a higher band score in your IELTS Speaking test.

Describe a famous actor from your country can be another interesting topic that might come up in your IELTS Speaking test. Being prepared for a variety of topics will help you perform better overall.

Examiner’s Advice

As an experienced IELTS examiner, I would offer the following advice to test-takers aiming for a high score in the Speaking test:

  1. Practice regularly: Consistent practice is key to improving your speaking skills. Try to speak English every day, even if it’s just talking to yourself.
  2. Expand your vocabulary: Learn new words and phrases related to common IELTS topics, and practice using them in context.
  3. Work on your pronunciation: Clear pronunciation is crucial for effective communication. Pay attention to word stress and intonation.
  4. Develop your ideas: Don’t just give short answers. Expand on your points and provide examples to support your ideas.
  5. Use a variety of grammatical structures: Demonstrate your language proficiency by using a mix of simple and complex sentence structures.
  6. Stay calm and confident: Remember, the examiner is there to assess your English, not to trick you. Stay relaxed and speak naturally.
  7. Listen carefully to the questions: Make sure you understand what’s being asked before you start answering.

Remember, describing accomplishments is just one of many topics you might encounter. Being prepared to discuss a wide range of subjects, such as describing a famous actor or singer from your country, will help you feel more confident during the test.

By following these tips and consistently practicing, you can improve your chances of achieving a high score in the IELTS Speaking test. Good luck with your preparation!

IELTS Mentor
onMay 20, 2025
Share
Previous Article

Mastering IELTS Speaking: How to Effectively Describe Daily Technology Use

Next Article

Mastering IELTS Speaking: How to Eloquently Describe a Famous Historical Building in Your Country

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