IELTS Speaking Part 2: Describe a historical period you would like to learn more about

Describe a historical period/moment you would like to learn more about

You should say:

when it happened

what you are interested in

what you know about it

and why you would like to know more

 

SUGGESTED IDEAS

When it happened:

• The Industrial Revolution (18th-19th century)
• World War II (1939-1945)
• The Renaissance (14th-17th century)
• The American Civil War (1861-1865)
• The French Revolution (1789-1799)

What you are interested in:

• The key events that took place during the period/moment
• The people who played important roles during that time
• The social, economic, and cultural changes that occurred
• The impact that the period/moment had on the world
• The reasons behind the events that took place

What you know about it:

• Any general knowledge you have about the period/moment
• Specific events, people, or ideas you have learned about in the past
• Any historical figures or events that pique your interest
• Your personal curiosity or desire to learn more about a particular topic

Why you would like to know more:

• To gain a deeper understanding of history and how it has shaped the world
• To expand your knowledge and gain new insights into the period/moment
• To be able to appreciate and understand the world around you more fully
• To gain a better appreciation of the challenges and triumphs of the people who lived during that time
• To be able to draw parallels between the events of the past and current events in the world today

USEFUL PHRASES

• I’ve always been fascinated by…
• I’ve heard a lot about…
• One period/moment that I find particularly interesting is…
• I’ve done some research on it, but I feel like there’s still so much to learn…
• What I find most intriguing about this period/moment is…
• It’s such an important moment in history because…
• I believe that understanding this period/moment is crucial in understanding the world we live in today…
• I would love to learn more about the people involved in this period/moment and what motivated them…
• The more I learn about this period/moment, the more I realize how little I know…
• It’s a period/moment that has had a lasting impact on society and culture even today…
• There are so many unanswered questions about this period/moment that I would like to explore…

SUGGESTED ANSWER

One historical period/moment that I would like to learn more about is the Renaissance, which took place from the 14th to the 17th century in Europe. I have always been fascinated by this transformative era and its impact on art, culture, and intellectual advancements.

During the Renaissance, there were numerous key events that unfolded, such as the emergence of humanism, the rise of great artists like Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo, and the spread of new scientific ideas. I am particularly interested in exploring the interactions between artists, thinkers, and patrons of the time, as well as the exchange of ideas across different city-states and regions.

While I have some general knowledge about the Renaissance, including its focus on individualism and the revival of classical Greek and Roman art, there is so much more to discover. I want to delve deeper into the social, economic, and cultural changes that occurred during this period, and understand how they influenced the subsequent development of Europe.

Studying the Renaissance is important to me because it was a pivotal moment in history that shaped the world we live in today. The achievements and innovations of that era laid the foundation for modern art, literature, and scientific inquiry. By learning more about the Renaissance, I hope to gain a better appreciation of the challenges and triumphs faced by the people of that time and how their ideas continue to resonate in our society.

Moreover, understanding the Renaissance can provide insights into the current artistic and intellectual landscape. Drawing parallels between the events of the past and the present can help us comprehend the evolution of human civilization and gain new perspectives on contemporary challenges.

In summary, the Renaissance is a historical period that captivates my curiosity. Exploring its key events, influential figures, and the cultural transformations it brought about will not only expand my knowledge but also allow me to understand the world in a broader historical context. By unraveling the mysteries of this period, I aim to gain a deeper understanding of the past and its enduring impact on our lives today.