education ielts speaking part 3

Education is a follow-up speaking topic that often comes up in the IELTS speaking part 3. Below you will find a list of some exam questions and answers that you could encounter during part 3 of the IELTS Speaking test.

The questions below are based on the real IELTS speaking exam. They serve as a great IELTS Speaking part 3 prediction questions to help you prepare better before your test.

Education Speaking Part 3 – Discussion 1

  1. Let’s speak about communication skills.
    Sure!
  2. Why are communication skills so important?
    I guess these skills are needed because most people need to communicate with someone every single day whether face-to-face or virtually. It just makes life easier if we are able to communicate smoothly with others, and enjoy a hassle-free life. Careless communication skills have wrecked marriages, spoiled family relationships and friendships too which is why people need to communicate with respect and always draw boundaries.
  3. What kind of professions require people to communicate effectively?
    I think teachers really need to be able to communicate well not only with the students they teach but also with faculty members, principals, and parents. Kids these days suffer from attention disorders and other mental issues making the role of the teacher equally important to that of parents.
  4. What other professions require effective communication skills?
    Hmm, I think that all those who work in the service industry are required to have a high degree of communication skills. So that would include doctors, teachers, bankers, even airline staff. They need to understand human behavior, anticipate problems that could arise, and be very careful with their tone and choice of words. Jobs have been lost because of poor communication skills, and due to this belief that the “Customer is always King!”

Education Vocabulary Speaking Part 3 – Discussion 1

  • aesthetic – concerned with beauty or the appreciation of beauty
  • opening act – the first act at a concert, esp before a main act
  • satirical – sarcastic, critical
  • draw boundaries – boundaries help you define what you are comfortable with and how you would like to be treated by others

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Discussion 2

  1. What are the advantages of learning a language?
    If you can speak another language, it opens up communication when you travel, breaking down any language barrier. This makes booking tables, talking to locals and understanding expressions easier. In addition, learning a language can open up job and career opportunities. If you speak English, the world is your oyster and you can work internationally.
  2. What are the easiest ways to learn a new language?
    One of the easiest ways is to watch videos online. They are free and they can teach you about grammar and vocabulary. There are also lots of useful apps you can download. I found watching TV series very useful as my English got better and I wanted to become more fluent. Doing things you don’t enjoy in English can put you off learning and make it more difficult.
  3. Can children learn languages better than adults?
    Absolutely! They say that a child’s mind is like a sponge, soaking up new information and I believe this is true for languages. We could learn a lesson from kids because they pick up words through immersion rather than formal teaching. It is quite incredible that a child can learn thousands of words so quickly.
  4. Why do children learn faster?
    I am not sure but it could be because they have a blank slate. Their brains are not full of other useless information taking up all the space. As we get older I think the brain must start to degenerate and is not as flexible to change and therefore adults find it more challenging and demanding to learn something new, like a language.

Vocabulary for Discussion 2

  • the world is your oyster – you can do anything you want
  • put you off – to lose interest
  • soak up – to absorb (information)
  • pick up – learn something without effort
  • blank slate – something original, not changed
  • demanding – difficult task

Discussion 3

  1. What skills should children learn from an early age?
    Most skills like walking and talking come naturally, but I think kids should be taught to share and be kind to others. This can be taught to young children through modelling social behaviours, children spending time with other children and giving them praise when they show good behaviour.
  2. Is it easier for children to learn new skills compared to adults?
    Yes, I think it is easier for children to learn as they don’t know anything else so they absorb the information easily. Adults can be more resistant to change and they can be stubborn. Children are motivated and interested in learning – their brains are keen to take in lots of new information.
  3. Do children need to know about science ?
    I think it is fundamental that children learn about the world around them, especially about the environment, the importance of saving the planet and the effects of human life. Also, science can teach children logic, decision making and practical skills. A lot of jobs require an understanding of science and we need this generation to grow up to be doctors and scientists that can develop medicine and technology.
  4. What scientific discoveries have changed the world the most?
    From my perspective, the discovery and invention of modern medicine had changed the world the most. In the past, minor illnesses and ailments could have killed a person yet now these conditions are treatable. The discovery of fossil fuels is two fold; humans were able to fuel machines and build modern machines but now we know how polluting these substances are.

Vocabulary for Discussion 3

  • praise – compliment somebody, say nice things
  • take in – absorb and understand information
  • fundamental – very important
  • ailments – illnesses
  • two fold – with positives and negatives

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 Discussion 4

  1. People can learn something without teachers these days. How do they do that?
    Nowadays, it is easier than ever to learn a new skill without a formal teacher. You can access a wealth of information online for free or you can sign up for an online course. There are plenty of apps that you can download to practice languages for example. Alternatively, you can be self-taught from books or other information.
  2. What are the differences between human teachers and other ways to teach yourself something?
    There are several differences between having a real teacher and teaching yourself. For instance, a teacher can motivate you and help you work through problems when you get stuck. They can also prepare lessons that are designed specially for you. On the other hand, teaching yourself means you can go at your own pace.
  3. What are the essential skills that children should learn?
    Children need to learn fundamental things like saving money, basic cooking and cleaning and skills that will help them in later life. In addition, I think languages are critical nowadays due to globalization and international business. This will help them to pursue a career abroad if they choose too.
  4. Why can children learn faster than adults?
    Children are able to absorb information more quickly than some adults because they are enthusiastic to learn. People say their brain is like a sponge, taking in information like water. I believe that children have a better memory for facts too as they don’t have other responsibilities and pressures taking up their brain space.

Vocabulary for Discussion 4

  • wealth of (information) – a lot of
  • get stuck – unable to move forward
  •  to pursue – to follow
  •  (like) a sponge – ability to absorb information

Discussion 5

  1. Should children learn about arts more?
    I don’t think children need to learn more than they do about arts and crafts. In my country, art is part of the school curriculum alongside maths and science. Children take part in art projects and there are plenty of resources to find out more if you want to.
  2. What are the benefits of making handcrafts?
    Handcrafts take a lot of time and effort so I think the good thing is that people appreciate how much work and effort you have put into something. When you give them as gifts, the person knows that you care about them and are thoughtful. That makes you feel proud of your craft.
  3. Why do some people think that art is difficult to understand?
    Art can be difficult to interpret, especially if you haven’t studied art at university. Museums can be overwhelming as you can be expected to have an opinion on art that you don’t understand. Some art is less accessible or abstract and can be tricky to understand.
  4. What can be done for young people to pay more attention to traditional arts?
    Traditional art will always be part of our culture but I don’t think you can make young people focus on it more. Often young people are bored by art and art galleries but it is inevitable that when they grow up they will develop an appreciation for the beauty of art.
  5. Do you think it’s important to cultivate an appreciation of arts in children?
    I believe that children are born creative and have a natural appreciation for art and colours. This should be encouraged and children ought to have the opportunity to express themselves through drawing or painting. This may lead them to an artistic career as a painter or sculptor.
  6. Do you think art should be included in the school curriculum? Why?
    Art is already a lesson in most schools, certainly in my country. I don´t think it should be compulsory as not everyone has an artistic flair but it should be an option for those that want to pursue it. Some countries don’t focus on arts which is a shame for those pupils.
  7. Have you attended any art lessons?
    I had art lessons at my school when I was younger but that was really painting and drawing. We didn’t study anything about arts or history for example. The only other time was when I went to a painting class for a laugh. We didn’t take it very seriously and just went along for fun.
  8. What have you learned from these lessons?
    I think my school lessons and the painting class made me realise that you don’t need to be born with a natural talent to practice art. You can give it a go and use it as an outlet for expression or a bit of fun. You can ignore the snobby art critics and just enjoy what you like about art.

Vocabulary for Discussion 5

  • put effort into – try hard to do something
  • overwhelming – difficult to fight against
  • inevitable – certain to happen
  • ought to – should
  • compulsory – mandatory
  • for a laugh – for fun
  • snobby – belief that you are of a better social class, condescending

Discussion 6

  1. Do your friends know about your talent?
    My friends are aware that I can sing and always encourage me to sing for them or at a karaoke for example. It is lovely to receive praise from your friends and family. One of my best friends asked me to sing at his wedding a few years ago; it was terrifying singing with a live band but worth it.
  2. Do you think it is important for children to have a special talent?
    In my opinion children should be encouraged but it is not crucial for them to have a special talent. Sometimes children don’t discover what they are good at until later in life so it would not be fair to expect them to be born talented.
  3. Should parents help them to develop their talent?
    If a child is demonstrating a natural talent their parents should encourage them to develop it to the best of their ability. In the case that the child does not want to pursue that dream, parents should not become pushy and pressure the child. So in short, I think they should be given the opportunity and then the freedom to choose.
  4. What should everyone do to take their special talent to the next level?
    If you have a talent and want to pursue it, you should seek the advice of a professional or somebody more experienced in that field. You should push yourself out of your comfort zone and try new things to develop the skills you need. Fortune favours the brave they say!

Vocabulary for Discussion 6

  • receive praise – get compliments
  • pushy – overly assertive
  • fortune favours the brave – expression

Discussion 7

  1. What is the best invention in the past 100 years?
    The world wide web or simply the internet is by far the best invention in the past 100 years. The ability to exchange information quickly between people even if they are on the opposite side of the world has been a huge help to humanity.
  2. What is the influence of science on human life?
    The biggest influence of science on human life is the quality and comfort it brings us in everyday life. The majority of the gadgets we use originated from science and its various innovations. Medical science, for example, has improved both health and life expectancy.
  3. Do you think it is mandatory to teach science in schools?
    Yes, it should be mandatory to teach science in schools because it is the field that cultivates and hones children to be future innovators and inventors. It might be a difficult subject to learn but it would help develop humanity as a whole.
  4. Do you think children love to learn science nowadays? Why?
    Not as much as they used to in the past. Early on, science was still a relatively easy subject. For some, new discoveries allure them to love the subject more. However, science quickly turned as clear as mud for some children as the science concepts become more advanced and the lectures get more complicated.
  5. What are the modern methods of teaching science subjects to children?
    Having children learn science hands-on is the best way to teach them the subject. Children will pay more attention to a topic when there is an accompanying experiment they can take part in. Engaging them in activities that would create spark to their brains would definitely be beneficial.
  6. Are they effective? Why do you think so?
    Yes, because capturing the attention of a child is much easier if they are participating and enjoying the process, instead of simply learning it by the book. Likewise, children will have a chance to experience the practical application of their learnings to their daily lives.
  7. Do you think that museums help to educate children about science? Why?
    To a certain degree yes, because children get excited when they go out and explore. Science museum’s displays of gadgets and inventions can pique the children’s interests. They might appreciate the evolution of science as they go through its history as well.
  8. In your daily life where can you see or practice science?
    Daily activities such as cooking, cleaning, driving, operating smartphones or using computers are clear signs of practicing science. We are seeing science in action as inventions are being created, refined, and continuously improved on a daily basis. The more we explore, the more we discover things.
  9. Are all mysteries solved by science?
    No. Even if science is about the process of trying to explain how and why these mysteries occur, there are still some mysteries that to this day are unknown and not yet proven by science. Speculations and doubts keep rising every time a new research or discovery has been found. I feel that science won’t be able to provide answers to all mysteries.

Vocabulary for Discussion 7

  • cultivate – to encourage or develop
  • hone – advances or moulds one
  • as clear as mud – difficult to see or understand
  • hands-on – very closely involved in something
  • by the book – strictly based on standard rules as exactly written
  • pique – to cause one to become interested in something
  • to this day – up to and including the present time

Discussion 8

  1. Do you think universities should only offer courses which will lead to employment?
    In the majority, I think this should be the case as lots of young people complete degrees and then can’t find a job so the degree is not worth the paper it is written on. On the other hand, some people study as a hobby or later in life so I think everyone should have the freedom to choose their interest. There should be more incentive to study for a degree like nursing, jobs that are understaffed.
  2. Are qualifications or experience more important when finding a job?
    It depends on the employer and the job but for students graduating, qualifications are more important. You have to be willing to start at the bottom and work your way up. In high paid jobs or senior positions, experience and being able to prove your worth is probably more important than what level of degree you obtained.
  3. What do you think is more important?
    If I’m completely honest, I think experience probably has the upper hand. Although a degree teaches you the textbook information and theory, it is only when you get out there and do it for real that you start to develop your skills. This will improve your confidence and take you into bigger and better things.

Vocabulary for Discussion 8

  • not worth the paper it is written on – no value
  • prove your worth – show your value
  • the upper hand – have the power of control of a situation

Discussion 9

  1. What are the advantages to learning a foreign language?
    For one, they open doors to new cultures and new friendships. Studying them also helps people learn about their own native language. Not only does it provide insight into the workings of societies, but it increases people’s understanding of themselves. Moreover, it offers individuals a wider range of career opportunities.
  2. Which is easier, speaking or writing in a different language?
    I think that it is easier to speak the language in the early stages of learning. It’s difficult to write words you don’t know, and, especially when it comes to languages with a different alphabet, it is quintessential to learn to say the words before reading and eventually writing them.
  3. Is it easier to learn a foreign language or a foreign culture?
    I think that language and culture are intrinsically linked, and it is therefore difficult to learn either one without the other. Without the cultural aspect, it hard to learn the correct language to use in various situations, and without the language, it is difficult to relate to the culture.
  4. Are you able to speak a foreign language like a native speaker?
    I seem to be able to pick up the language relatively easily, however, pronunciation is sometimes a struggle. There are some unfamiliar sounds which my mouth is not trained to produce. But I strive to speak as accurately as I can. There is certainly no harm in trying!
  5. Is it easier for children to learn a foreign language?
    I believe so. Children absorb information like sponges, because everything is new to them. The earlier they begin to learn a language, the sharper their language learning skills will be as they grow older. Early language acquisition is highly beneficial to forming a solid understanding of the way languages work.
  6. Do you think that governments should support people who are studying languages in foreign countries?
    I think that is a reasonable expectation. Governments have a responsibility to care for their people’s well-being on a number of levels. Language programmes abroad are excellent ways of enriching a person’s life and increasing their chances of finding jobs. They should therefore be supported by governments.

Vocabulary for Discussion 9

  • open doors = (in this case) to provide opportunities
  • insight = deeper understanding
  • quintessential = basic and fundamental
  • intrinsically linked = naturally and essentially connected
  • no harm in trying = trying can’t hurt
  • absorb information like sponges = learn large amount of information
  • enriching = (in this case) add valuable experience and knowledge to someone’s life

Discussion 10

  1. What techniques help you study?
    I find that using flashcards for specific terms I need to memorise help a lot. I also like to paraphrase information I read about, so that I can explain it to myself in my own words, and then be able to explain to others
  2. Is it best to study in classrooms or online?
    Some subjects are practical and a person’s physical presence may be needed, such as engineering and some art modules which require the use of art studios. However, online learning can be quite helpful to individuals who struggle to follow a given routine, and prefer to study at their own pace.
  3. How do you feel about group studying?
    I believe it can be very useful in making people stay on track and motivated to complete work. On the other hand, it can sometimes do the opposite with people interacting and distracting each other instead of studying. It takes willpower and mutual agreement to be productive during such sessions.
  4. Does it help to vary techniques when studying a specific subject?
    It can sometimes be helpful to do so. In some cases, sticking to old habit can cause disinterest and be counter-productive. Changing methods can prove to be quite fruitful by providing a new approach and outlook on the subject being studied. It may also regenerate enthusiasm for a particular subject.
  5. Are academic qualifications more important than practical experience?
    It depends on the circumstance. If applying for a more hands-on type of job, academic qualifications will be useful in proving knowledge of a given subject, however, practical experience will be invaluable, as most of the job would consist of physical actions.

Vocabulary for Discussion 10

  • at their own pace = in their own time
  • stay on track = stay focused
  • willpower = inner willingness to complete a certain task
  • disinterest = lack of interest
  • counter-productive = not helpful
  • fruitful = very productive

Discussion 11

  1. Is it more difficult to learn a new skill with age?
    I believe some skills can be, but it is not true of all people. Children tend to be quick studies because everything is new to them, and their brain absorbs information like a sponge. It may be a little more challenging as years go by, but not for all people.
  2. Who are you most likely to learn from, your friends, your teacher or your parents?
    It really depends on the skill and the situation. It would be preferable to learn a new skill from someone whose area of expertise it is, especially if it is a skill I intend to learn out of personal interest, and not as a requirement.
  3. What is the difference between children learning something they are interested in, and something they are required to learn?
    Very young children in the early stage of their development focus on their own interests, and begin to shape their personality. They will therefore be more inclined to learn something they are interested in, than something they must learn. The trick is to make compulsory skills interesting to them!
  4. Should boys and girls learn the same skills?
    Absolutely. Teaching them the same skills will encourage them to explore their full potential and will increase their sense of self-confidence. It will also help establish a notion of gender equality, which they will carry with them as they grow older. It could also help them develop a strong sense of belonging.
  5. Do you enjoy continuously learning new skills?
    I do. There is so much to learn in this world, and I welcome any new skills that could come in handy or enrich my life in any way. When I learn a new skill, I feel I am more connected with the better and understand it better.
  6. What is the most difficult skill you’ve had to learn?
    That would be driving! When I was learning to drive, I remember being very nervous on the road. I’ve lost count of the number of mistakes I made! I had three different instructors, and, luckily, the last one was a great fit for my personality and learning style.

Vocabulary for Discussion 11

  • quick studies = fast learners
  • areas of expertise = a subject someone knows inside out
  • inclined to = likely to
  • compulsory = required, obligatory
  • come in handy = be helpful
  • enrich = bring value to
  • I’ve lost count of = I can’t remember how many (in this case) I can’t remember how many mistakes I made, because I made so many of them.

Discussion 12

  1. Were you able to study well at home?
    I could study well at home, so long as I alternated between studying there and in other locations. Once I get too familiar with a place, it is easier for me to get distracted in it. That is why a change of scenery was important for me.
  2. Do you prefer learning in a classroom or online?
    I personally prefer to attend in-person classes. Following a lecture behind a screen seems to take away from the overall experience, and makes me feel less engaged. There is something motivating about meeting with fellow students in person. It makes me feel like we are all in the same boat.
  3. Is home-schooling a good idea?
    Home-schooling can be very helpful for a number of reasons, including families who move a lot. There are also some students who struggle to socialise or integrate, and who still need to catch up on content taught in their school. Learning at home can therefore be highly beneficial for them.
  4. What are ways of helping people study?
    It depends on people’s learning styles and personalities. Some people learn best while listening to music in the background. Others may have a short attention span, where studying with more frequent breaks may help them. Certain individuals, such as myself, love to use flashcards and read through their notes.

Vocabulary for Discussion 12

  • a change of scenery = seeing something different, or being in a different location
  • all in the same boat = all going through the same experience
  • short attention span = struggling to remain focus for extended periods of time

Discussion 13

  1. Should schools focus solely on teaching such skills as reading and writing?
    While such skills are essential to teach and learn, schools should also teach children primordial social skills, such as sharing and resolving issues with controlled behaviour. Mathematics should also be taught from a young age. As they grow older, other subjects, such as geography and history will also be necessary.
  2. Which skill is more important, reading or writing?
    Both skills are equally important. Because they have to do with visually producing or assimilating characters, they are quite interconnected. It is important to teach them both from a young age, starting with easier words, in order to build up confidence and ability to read and write more complex ones.
  3. Why are good writing skills important?
    Good writing skills are important when trying to convey written messages. Certain words may sound the same but have a very different spelling, making the reader scratch their head. Good writings kills and grammar are very important for professionalism, especially in advertisements and corporate emails.
  4. Where can a person get more information from, a picture or words?
    They do say that a picture paints a thousand words, and that is true in many cases, where art provokes emotions or ideas that are best expressed visually. However, words certainly do carry meaning, and hearing certain words might resonate with some people in a way that pictures never could

Vocabulary for Discussion 13

  • primordial = fundamental
  • scratch their head = be confused
  • a picture paints a thousand words = a visual can express endless ideas or feelings
  • resonate = (in this case) be relatable/agree with someone’s views, feelings experience

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