IELTS Speaking
language
Practice questions
- 1.How has learning a second language changed your perspective on your native language?
- 2.What do you think is the most effective method for improving speaking fluency in a foreign language?
- 3.In what ways do you think the popularity of English as a global language affects linguistic diversity?
- 4.Do you believe that technology, such as translation apps, reduces the motivation to learn new languages? Why or why not?
- 5.How does the language we speak influence the way we think, in your opinion?
Model answer
Learning a second language has profoundly altered my view of my native language. Initially, I took my mother tongue for granted, rarely analyzing its structure or nuances. However, while studying Spanish, I began to notice grammatical features I had never considered before, such as the subjunctive mood and gendered nouns. This forced me to compare both languages and appreciate the complexity inherent in my own. For instance, English's extensive vocabulary and flexible word order suddenly seemed remarkable, whereas before they were just background. Additionally, I became more aware of idioms and cultural references that are untranslatable, reinforcing how language is intertwined with identity. This experience has made me more mindful in using my native language, avoiding clichés and striving for precision. Ultimately, learning another language has not only equipped me with a new skill but has also deepened my respect for the linguistic heritage I already possessed.
Target vocabulary
nuances
subtle or slight differences in meaning, expression, or tone
subjunctive mood
a verb form used to express wishes, demands, or hypothetical situations
gendered nouns
nouns that have grammatical gender (masculine, feminine, or neuter)
intertwined
twisted or connected closely together
clichés
overused phrases or ideas that have lost their original impact
linguistic heritage
the language or languages passed down through generations as part of culture
precision
the quality of being exact, accurate, and careful in expression
untranslatable
not able to be expressed in another language with the same meaning or effect