Focus: Story Adaptation
Interactive Lesson
Tips & Examples
Talking about books, movies, and stories can be extremely similar. If a candidate isn’t much of a reader, they can describe a movie they know well. So many books are made into movies that the examiner won’t know for sure whether you’re telling the truth or not. If they ask just say “I didn’t know it was a movie?” or “I’m sure it was a book before it was a movie. All I know is the book is way better and the movie left out a lot.” Ultimately, the examiner doesn’t care and only wants to hear you speak English.
Example Questions and Answers
Do you enjoy reading books?
Example Answer 1
“I’m not really into reading books. I don’t think I’ve ever read a book from cover to cover. I guess it’s just hard for me to depict the authors meanings in my head. “
Example Answer 2
“Yeah, I crack open a good book every now and again. I’m kinda weird about books, though. I have to read a hardcover or paperback book because I like keeping them as trophies. When I read an e-book there’s nothing”
Do you enjoy reading fiction?
Example Answer 1
“I can’t stand reading anything fiction. I know that fiction is inspirational and good for creativity, but for me, I need to make sure I’m learning something I can use in the real world when I’m reading.”
Example Answer 2
“I love fiction books. Every night before bed I read and try and get lost in the different worlds with new friends. It’s my escape from reality and it really helps me be happy.”
What types of things do you like reading?
Example Answer 1
“This will sound a bit odd, but I usually read a German newspaper. It’s something that I use to keep up my German that I learned in high school.”
Example Answer 2
“I like to read tabloids like entertainment weekly. I enjoy the gossip and intriguing lives of the celebs. I pick one up at the local store about every 2 weeks or so.”
Do you like watching movies when you’ve read the book?
Example Answer 1
“Yep, I still enjoy watching movies even if I’ve read their books first. Hollywood always depicts the books in a different way and uses cool special effects that make the movie stand apart from the book.”
Example Answer 2
“I haven’t watched a movie that I thought was a good depiction of the book. They all dropped the ball and usually miss some of the more important parts of books.”
Additional questions you might see.
What is your favorite author/story?
What genre do yo like reading most?
What is the longest book you've ever read?
What are some books you recommend?
* Remember, the IELTS exam is constantly changing. You will need to make sure you are confident talking about all subjects.