IELTS Speaking Part 2 – Topic: Describe a new skill you would like to learn

I’d like to talk about a new skill that I want to learn. I’ m the kind of adventurous person who enjoys the challenge of learning new things, whether it is a new sport or a skill that would be useful to me.

I would like to have the skills to set up my own website. Probably the best place to learn to do this would be online, using a distance-learning course run by a university, which I could take free of charge. I wouldn’t need to travel and I could complete the course at my own pace in my spare time.

Although there would be a lot to learn, I already use computers all the time, so I think that I could pick up the basics quite quickly. With practice, I would become more creative and able to incorporate new features on my website.

Of course, I imagine that I would find the course interesting, but I have a practical reason for wanting to master this skill. I have recently started my own company, selling sports goods, so it would be a really cost-effective and attractive way to advertise my products.

– adventurous: [adjective] willing to take risks and try new ideas.
Example: My friend is very adventurous and she loves to try the local cuisine when we travel to other countries.

– challenge: [noun] a new or difficult task that tests someone’s ability or skill.
Example: It will be a big challenge to pass my final exams.

– set up: [phrasal verb] create or start something.
Example: The government has set up a new clinic in the city centre.

– distance learning: [noun] a system of education where people study at home with the help of special Internet sites, and e-mail work to their teachers.
Example: Although he lives in the countryside, he is able to take a distance learning course to qualify as an engineer.

– at my own pace: [expression] at the speed which is best for me.
Example: She prefers to study alone, so that she can work at her own pace.

– pick up: [phrasal verb] get information or a skill quite easily, without too much work.
Example: I picked up a lot of English during my visit to New York.

– creative: [adjective] able to use skill and imagination to produce something new.
Example: The advertising company employs a creative team to think of new ideas and designs.

– incorporate: [verb] to include something, so that it then forms part of something else.
Example: The teacher incorporates music into his English lessons, to make them more enjoyable.

– master: [verb] learn or understanding something completely.
Example: I was never able to master the French language when I was at school.

– cost-effective: [adjective] giving the best possible results for the money and time spent on something.
Example: Using more security cameras in public places is a cost-effective way to reduce crime.

– attractive: [adjective] having features or qualities that make something seem interesting or pleasant.
Example: My flat is opposite some attractive gardens, which are full of trees and flowers.