This recent IELTS speaking test includes questions about:
- Part 1 | Work, Weather
- Part 2 | A time you overheard a stranger talking on their phone
- Part 3 | Dealing with strangers, Bad behavior, Public behavior
IELTS Speaking Part 1
WorkWhat kind of work do you do?
I'm currently employed as a software engineer at a tech startup.
Why did you choose that profession?
I chose this profession because I've always been fascinated by technology and the impact it has on our daily lives, plus I enjoy solving complex problems.
Is there anything you dislike about your current job?
If I had to pinpoint something I dislike, it would be the occasional long hours, which can be quite draining and impact my work-life balance.
Weather
How would you describe the weather where you live?
The weather in my area is quite unpredictable; I'd say it's a mix of everything. One day it might be sunny and bright, and the next, you could be reaching for an umbrella due to sudden downpours. It's like living in a climate lottery - you never know what you're going to get! But honestly, it keeps things interesting, and I've learned to always be prepared for any type of weather.
What kind of weather do you like best?
Oh, hands down, I'd have to say I love sunny weather the best. There's something about the warmth of the sun on my skin and the bright blue skies that just lifts my spirits. It's like the world's a bit more cheerful and inviting, you know? Plus, it's perfect weather for a picnic or a day at the beach, and who doesn't love that? It's really the cherry on top of a great day.
Do people often talk about the weather?
Yes. Chatting about the weather is like the universal icebreaker here. Whether you're waiting in line for your morning coffee or bumping into a neighbor, chances are, you'll end up talking about whether it's going to rain or shine. It's kind of like our version of small talk, but I think it also shows how we're all in this together, facing whatever the sky throws at us. Plus, it's a safe bet for a conversation starter - nobody's going to get too heated about whether it's cloudy or clear!
IELTS Speaking Part 2
Describe a time when you were in a public place and you overheard a stranger talking on the phone.
You should say:- where this happened
- when it happened
- what the person was talking about
Sample Cue Card Answer
Let me tell you about this one time I found myself in a cozy little café in the heart of the city. It was a brisk autumn afternoon, and the café was buzzing with the murmur of conversations and the clinking of coffee cups. I had nestled myself in a corner with a cappuccino, trying to catch up on some reading, when my attention was hijacked by a conversation.
A woman at the table next to me was on the phone, speaking in hushed yet fervent tones. Curiosity got the better of me, and I found myself eavesdropping. She was talking about planning a surprise birthday party for her husband. The plan was elaborate, involving family and friends flying in from all over, a secret venue booking, and a themed decoration setup. What caught my ear was the sheer excitement and love in her voice as she spoke about the lengths she was going to ensure the day was special.
At first, I felt a bit guilty for prying, like I was intruding into someone’s private world uninvited. But as I continued to listen, that feeling was slowly replaced by a warmth. It was a beautiful reminder of the love and effort people are willing to put into making their loved ones happy.
In a world where we often get caught up in the hustle and bustle, overhearing that conversation felt like a breath of fresh air. It made the world seem a little smaller, a little kinder, and a lot more connected. And truth be told, it left me itching to plan a surprise for someone dear to me, just to spread that ripple of joy a little further.
IELTS speaking Part 3 | Behavior
Bad behavior
In what ways do you think people sometimes behave badly to strangers?
You know, it seems like some folks just forget their manners when dealing with strangers. Take cutting in line, for instance; it's as if people think their time is more valuable than everyone else's, a classic case of "me first" mentality.
Then there's the joy of getting an earful because someone’s blasting music in public spaces—talk about breaking the sound barrier of common courtesy! And don't get me started on littering; it’s like they think the world is their personal trash can.
It boils down to a lack of empathy, really. If everyone took a moment to walk a mile in someone else’s shoes, or at the very least, remember the golden rule to treat others how you’d want to be treated, I reckon we’d see a lot less of this bad behavior.
What should be done about people who are behaving badly, is it best to ignore them or say something about their bad behaviour?
Oh, that's a tricky one. Ignoring bad behavior feels like you're letting them get away with it, right? But then, calling them out often feels like poking a bear with a stick.
The way I see it, there's a bit of a tightrope to walk here. Sometimes, a gentle reminder of manners can work wonders, a sort of "kill them with kindness" approach.
Other times, especially if the behavior is downright disruptive or harmful, it might be best to seek help from someone in authority, like store managers or security.
The key, I reckon, is to not escalate the situation. After all, you catch more flies with honey than you do with vinegar.
Behavior in public
What can be done to help improve how people behave in public?
Getting people to behave better in public is a bit like herding cats, isn't it? It's a tough nut to crack, but I believe education and clear, visible guidelines can set the stage. Imagine if, from a young age, children were taught not just to share and say please and thank you, but also the why behind these actions—how they make others feel valued and respected.
Stepping up the game, public campaigns highlighting the consequences of bad behavior could serve as a wake-up call. It's about creating an environment where good manners are as contagious as a yawn in a crowded room. Coupling this with a sprinkle of positive reinforcement, like recognizing and rewarding good public conduct, could make all the difference. After all, it's not rocket science; sometimes, all it takes is a little nudge in the right direction.
Do you think that people are more silent in public now than in the past? Why do you think this is?
That's an interesting one. Yes, I reckon folks are more buttoned-up in public nowadays, and it's not exactly hard to see why.
For starters, we're all practically glued to our screens, aren't we? It's like everyone's in their little world, headphones in, scrolling away. Then there's the whole social media minefield - say something out of turn, and you might as well have painted a target on your back.
It's like walking on eggshells. Plus, with the world being a bit of a powder keg these days, people are likely keeping their cards close to their chest to avoid any unnecessary kerfuffles. All in all, it seems the art of chinwagging with strangers is becoming a rare gem.
What are some reasons why some people might feel that silence is uncomfortable?
Well, you see, some folks find silence as awkward as a penguin in the Sahara, not just because it's deafening, but because it's like uncharted waters. In our buzz-buzz, non-stop world where gab is the norm, a sudden lack of it feels like we've missed a step walking downstairs. It's that jolt of, "Hey, what's amiss?"
Plus, in silence, people often reckon they're left alone with their thoughts, which can be as welcome as a skunk at a lawn party. And don't get me started on social cues; without them, some feel like they're navigating a maze blindfolded. In a nutshell, for many, silence isn't golden; it's just plain uncomfortable.