By: Desi Indrawati, S.Pd., M.Hum.

 

Source: learntalk

 

Impromptu Speaking – Abstract Conversation

Abstract conversation involves discussing topics that do not restrict the speaker to think in a particular direction. The speaker is free to fly in any direction with his thoughts. E.g., ‘Black’.

    For a topic like ‘Black’, the average speaker might stand there wondering about the beautiful colour which has no shades, no hue and yet, is elegant. He might also speak about ‘black’ as a colour, what it represents in his life and where all does, he/she see that colour. But that’s it.

Innovation in Thinking

One unique feature about the abstract topics is that they give the speaker the freedom to think and imagine. The speaker can shape and mould the topic in any way he/she wants. It’s the widening of thoughts that’s the most important here.

Most often than not, abstract topics appear in the form of famous quotes or idioms or proverbs. “You can lead a horse to water, but you cannot make it drink” is a proverb and is an abstract topic.

This topic is not related to geo-politics, education, business, society or environment. However, it can be shaped into a topic on any of these. An average speaker will just talk about what the proverb means and how forcing someone to do something cannot help the person. Someone may even cite the example of criminals, whose character doesn’t change much even after spending years of self-introspection in prison.

 

Application of Abstract Topics

Abstract topics are a must for essay writing contests. Moreover, these days even the group discussion for campus placements and B-school selection rounds happen around abstract topics. Debates can be fought around abstract topics too. For instance, consider a topic ‘Does an early bird always catch the worm?’ The debaters can speak at length on the topic.

The examples of abstract topics are as follows:

  • Beauty is only skin deep.
  • Don’t judge a book by its cover.
  • Red and blue.
  • United we stand, divided we fall.
  • Strike the iron while it is hot.

The speaking component assesses your use of spoken English. Every test is recorded:

  • Part 1 – the examiner will ask you general questions about yourself and a range of familiar topics, such as home, family, work, studies and interests. This part lasts between four and five minutes.
  • Part 2 – you will be given a card which asks you to talk about a particular topic. You will have one minute to prepare before speaking for up to two minutes. The examiner will then ask one or two questions on the same topic.
  • Part 3 – you will be asked further questions about the topic in Part 2. These will give you the opportunity to discuss more abstract ideas and issues. This part of the test lasts between four and five minutes.
    Speaking Section of the IELTS.

Resources:

  • Impromptu Speaking – Abstract Conversation (tutorialspoint.com)
  • Some ielts speaking topics with examples and exercises. (languages247.com)

BINUS @Bandung