Introduction
Students, specifically from non-native English-speaking backgrounds, experience a lack of confidence when it comes to performing flawlessly in the IELTS speaking test.When candidates are asked questions that involve differentiation, they take a step back, as they fail to utilize appropriate language even when they are aware of the answer, and hence, end up scoring less than desired. This blog will give you knowledge on what you should expect in the IELTS speaking part 3, along with tips to give your answer in an organized manner, and an example of such a question with an answer.
What to expect in Speaking Part 3?
In IELTS Speaking part 3, the examiner tries to engage in a discussion where he asks questions on conceptual and complicated topics. This can be a two-way communication of almost 5-7 minutes. You need to listen to the question carefully and then give your response accordingly.
The questions will be based on the topic that you have spoken about in Speaking Part 2. Ensure that you are prepared to articulate your answers in a detailed format.
Types of Comparison
Speaking part 3 consists of various types of contrasting questions. They are:
- Comparisons based on Time duration: In this question type, you are asked to talk about the present and the past patterns of a particular topic.
For example, how has technology changed the lives of people now than the lives of people in the past?
- Comparisons based on Age groups and gender: Here, you are questioned keeping in mind different social groups such as children, elderly people, males, females, young individuals, or adults.
For instance, do elderly people accept change easily than the young generation? OR Do boys and girls prefer to play with similar kinds of toys?
- Comparisons based on geographic features: The questions here are based on the different aspects, like the environment, locations, cultures, etc.
To cite an example, do people now prefer to live in urban areas or the countryside?
How to strategize your answer?
Before you start speaking, it is essential to know how to frame your answer in such a way that the examiner is fully convinced by the response. Below are some of the strategies that you should apply in order to answer beautifully.
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Include both sides in your response:
When you are asked a comparison-type question, discuss both perspectives in a tactful manner. This approach provides more content and demonstrates balanced thinking.
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Use an appropriate structure for the answer:
Organize your response properly by starting with the main point, followed by an explanation, a relevant example, and finally ending with your conclusion or final standpoint.
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Make proper use of grammar:
Use past, present, and future tenses correctly to show alertness, fluency, and grammatical accuracy in your response.
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Utilize comparative language:
Choose suitable linking and comparative words according to the context. Use words like
similarly or parallelly to show similarities, and phrases like
on the opposite side to highlight differences.
Step-wise guide to answer questions based on comparison
Follow the steps mentioned below to sound natural and clever during the speaking test. Always see to it that you tell two distinctions, if possible, to let the examiner get better clarity on your answer.
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Always employ linking phrases:
Linking phrases help to show relationships and connectivity in your thoughts. Phrases such as
certainly, clearly, indisputably, definitely, and
surely can provide a strong foundation to your answer.
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Give a statement that mentions the variance:
After using a strong linking phrase, state a sentence that indicates the extent of difference in the topic. Sentences like
there are a plethora of reasons for this,
there is a sea change in the way that, or
there is a large amount of variation here can help begin your reasoning effectively.
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Commence with stating your first difference, followed by a description:
Present your first point clearly and explain it with reasoning. For example, you may say,
I think the most compelling factor of elderly people resisting change is due to the old mentality and rigidity of the culture they were brought up in, or
the first and foremost reason for this development is the advancement of technology in recent years.
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Place the language of comparison:
Use comparative language to introduce the opposite viewpoint. Words and phrases such as
whereas, on the flip side, conversely,
however, and in contrast to can help transition smoothly into the contrasting idea.
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Give your contradictory statement:
After introducing comparison language, explain the differing thought or perspective. For example, you may say,
Conversely, girls like to play more with Barbie dolls and kitchen sets.
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Put forward the second opposing point:
Once the first difference is explained, introduce another contrasting idea using phrases like
to follow through, to add on, furthermore,
additionally, besides this, or
in addition to the earlier point.
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Repeat the activity from the second pointer:
Continue by mentioning another contrast using statements such as
the second most influencing factor can be or
another point of dissimilarity is that.
Then explain the reason, use comparative language, discuss the variation, and finally conclude your answer with a clear final thought.
What grammar structure to use?
Generally, when you are asked to make comparisons in your response, there are two simple grammar structures that you should use. The tenses that you need to apply are:
- Simple Past Tense: For talking about past events, use the formula of Subject + V2 + Object (if any). You can also try words such as, used to, to mention the occurrences of earlier times. Say, in the old times, people used to spend more time with their families, or children were more involved in physical activity decades ago.
- Simple Present Tense: To narrate the current circumstance, ensure to utilize the simple present tense, which is Subject + V1 + Object. To exemplify, these days, individuals rely greatly on private transportation, while elderly people tend to listen to traditional music more.
An example of a comparison question
Have a look at the following example and practice such questions to get a grip on your fluency while answering this type of question.
QWho likes to stay at home more, young people or old people?
AUndoubtedly, old people like to spend more time at home than youngsters, and there are multiple reasons behind it. The most apparent cause is because of their age and health. Not all senior citizens have a physically fit body. Thus, they wish to stay at their house. On the other hand, youngsters like to experience challenges and new things in their life, so they feel bored when they be at home for a longer duration. Moreover, the second most influencing factor is that elderly people prefer comfort and belongingness over any other materialistic pleasures, whereas the youth desire to attain happiness by travelling to different places, eating various cuisines, and spending money on technologies. Therefore, the older generation remains at home more than the younger ones.
Conclusion
The most challenging part of the speaking test can now be dealt with ease by following all the uncomplicated steps written in this blog. You can also contact any study abroad consultants or the IELTS coaching institutes, where the faculty can help you practice many questions of this type. Remember, speaking with logic will fetch you more bands.
