IELTS Speaking Test: A Quick How To Guide
Here's a quick guide to answering IELTS Speaking Test questions.
Part 1: Personal Questions
- Keep it simple and natural. Answer directly but expand on your answers. For example, instead of "I like my area" say "I like my area because it's quiet and green".
- Use a range of vocabulary. Show off your language skills but don't use too many big words.
- Practice common topics. Get familiar with questions about work, studies, hobbies and daily life.
Part 2: Topic-Based Talk (Long Turn)
- Plan your talk. Use the one minute to prepare to structure your ideas.
- Tell a story. Make your answer interesting by using storytelling techniques.
- Expand your points. Give details, examples and personal opinions to show your language ability.
- Use connectors. Words like 'however', 'although' and 'in addition' help you link your ideas.
Part 3: Discussion
- Give your opinion. Explain your point clearly and support it with reasons.
- Use speculative language. Words like 'might', 'could' and 'possibly' show you can consider different views.
- Give examples. Use real-life examples to back up your points to make your answers more convincing.
IELTS Speaking Test Part 1
Examiner: What’s your name?
Candidate: Alex.
Examiner: Where are you from?
Candidate: Seoul, South Korea.
Examiner: Do you live in a busy or quiet area?
Candidate: I live in a pretty busy part of Seoul. So, there’s always something going on which I love. And it’s lively and full of life.
Examiner: What do you like about your area?
Candidate: I like the convenience of living in a busy area. There are shops, restaurants and public transportation right on my doorstep. And I love the city.
Examiner: What’s your favourite number?
Candidate: Seven. It’s a lucky number in many cultures, and I’ve always liked the way it sounds.
Examiner: Are you good at remembering phone numbers?
Candidate: Yes! I have a good memory for numbers. And I guess it’s helpful in my line of work.
Examiner: Did you like maths growing up?
Candidate: Maths was okay. I was decent at it, but I preferred history and literature. Numbers are powerful, but stories and human connections interest me more.
Examiner: How often do you use the internet?
Candidate: I’m online most of the time. It’s become part of daily life for work, socializing and keeping up with the world.
Examiner: Have you ever had to leave your house to use the internet?
Candidate: Not really. I have internet at home and usually have data on my phone. But I remember when I was traveling in a remote area, I had to find an internet cafe.
Examiner: If you didn’t have access to the internet for 24 hours, what would you do?
Candidate: That would be a challenge! I’d probably spend more time outdoors, also read a book or maybe even try to learn a new skill like cooking or painting.
IELTS Speaking Test Part 2
Examiner: Now I’d like you to talk about a party you recently attended. I’ll give you one minute to think about it, and then I’d like you to speak for about one to two minutes. Is that okay?
Candidate: Yes.
Examiner: Here’s some paper and a pencil if you’d like to make some notes.
Talk about a party that you recently attended.
You should say- what the party was for
- why you attended this party
- what happened at the party
IELTS Speaking Test Long Turn Sample Answer
Candidate: So the last party I went to was my cousin’s wedding reception. It was a big one held at a fancy hotel in the city. I went because, well, family is everything to me, and I wanted to celebrate this special occasion with my loved ones. Plus, I hadn’t seen some of my relatives in ages, so it was an opportunity to catch up.
The reception was really enjoyable. The ballroom was transformed into a fairytale setting with beautiful decorations and soft lighting. What's more, there was a live band playing a mix of old and new songs, which got everyone dancing. And the food was delicious, a big buffet with a wide range of Korean and international dishes. Of course, there was also an open bar, which added to the party atmosphere.
One of the highlights of the night was the couple’s first dance. They looked so happy together, and it was lovely to see their love story unfold. I also enjoyed chatting with my aunts, uncles and cousins, sharing stories and laughter. It was great to reconnect with people I hadn’t seen in a long time.
Overall, it was a great party. It was a night of joy, love and unforgettable memories. And being surrounded by family and friends made it even more special. I’m so glad I could be there to celebrate my cousin’s new chapter in life.
IELTS Speaking Test Part 3
Examiner: Is it worth hosting an international sports event? Why or why not?
Candidate: It’s a tough one. On one hand, hosting a big sports event could boost a country’s image and economy. And it’s a great chance to show off a nation’s culture and achievements. But there’s a massive investment involved, and there’s always a risk of things going wrong. So, you have to weigh the pros and cons.
Examiner: Would you want someone from your country to represent you internationally?
Candidate: I would be very proud. Having someone from your own country excel on the world stage is inspiring. And it gives people a sense of unity and national pride. Plus, it can encourage young people to chase their dreams in sports and other fields.
Examiner: How important is it for athletes to represent their country in international sports events?
Candidate: Representing your country is a big honour. It’s also a chance to compete against the best in the world and possibly bring glory to your nation. But I think personal achievement and love for the sport could also be strong motivators.
Examiner: What are the challenges for countries in hosting international sports events?
Candidate: There are many. First, the financial burden is enormous. Building stadiums, infrastructure and ensuring security all require massive financial commitments. And second, the environmental impact from construction to waste management could be detrimental. Finally, the pressure to deliver a flawless event might be stressful for organizers.
Examiner: How do international sports events affect the local economy and infrastructure of the host country?
Candidate: Sports events can bring a serious boost to the local economy. Why? Because tourism increases, and jobs are created in hospitality and related industries. Also, investment in infrastructure, such as transportation and accommodation, can have long-term benefits. But it’s vital to make sure the benefits are shared fairly among the local population.
Examiner: How do international sports events impact tourism in the host country?
Candidate: Sports events can attract a huge number of visitors from around the world. And this can lead to increased hotel bookings, restaurant reservations and spending on souvenirs and other goods. So, it’s a fantastic opportunity to showcase a country’s attractions and encourage repeat visits.
-- End of IELTS Speaking Test --
Good luck with your IELTS Speaking Test preparation!
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