IELTS Speaking – General and Academic

IELTS Speaking: Overview of Parts 1, 2, and 3

The IELTS speaking exam is the same for the General and Academic exams. The IELTS Speaking test is designed to assess your spoken English skills in a structured environment. The test is divided into three parts: Part 1 (Introduction and Interview), Part 2 (Long Turn), and Part 3 (Discussion). Here’s an in-depth look at each part of the exam, with sample questions and advice on how to answer them effectively.

Introduction of the IELTS Speaking Interview (about 2 minutes)

In Part 1, the examiner will ask you some introductory questions about yourself. These questions usually cover familiar topics such as your personal life, work, studies, hobbies, family, and lifestyle. The goal of the IELTS Speaking exam is to assess how comfortably you can speak about yourself and give clear, concise answers in English.

Sample Questions and How to Answer

1. What is your name?
This is typically the first question. The answer is simple: give your full name or just say “My name is [First Name] [Last Name].”

2. Where are you from?
Again, the answer is straightforward: “I’m from [City/Country].”
However, you should be prepared to give a bit more detail if the examiner asks for clarification, such as:

• “It’s a small town/city in [Region].”
• “It’s known for [a famous landmark or feature].”

3. What do you do? Do you work or are you a student?
Your answer here depends on your situation. If you’re working, you can say:

• “I work as a [your job]. I’m employed at [Company Name].”
  If you’re a student, you can say:
• “I am a student, and I’m currently studying [Subject] at [University Name].”
  If the examiner asks for more details, briefly explain what your job or studies involve. For example:
• “I work as a software engineer, where I help design and develop applications for mobile phones.”
• “I’m studying economics, and I focus on how global markets affect local economies.”

4. What do you like to do in your free time?
This question is meant to gauge your ability to talk about hobbies or personal interests. A good strategy is to explain why you enjoy these activities. For example:

• “In my free time, I like reading books, especially novels. It helps me relax and escape into different worlds.”
• “I love playing basketball with my friends because it keeps me active and it’s a great way to socialize.”

5. How do you relax?
This question is designed to see how you manage stress or unwind. The key here is to describe activities that help you relax, and again, briefly explain why they are effective. For example:

• “I relax by listening to music. It calms me down after a long day at work.”
• “I like going for walks in the park to clear my mind and enjoy some fresh air.”

Key Tips for Part 1:

• Answer questions clearly and confidently.
• Use simple, natural language, but don’t be afraid to elaborate slightly to make your answers more interesting.
• Keep your responses brief but provide enough detail to give the examiner a clear understanding of your personal life.
• Don’t overthink; just speak naturally about your experiences.

Part 1: IELTS Speaking – Discussion section

In Part 1 of the IELTS Speaking test, the examiner will ask a series of introductory questions about familiar topics such as your personal life, interests, work, studies, family, and health. This part of the test lasts about 4-5 minutes, and its main aim is to assess your ability to give clear, structured, and detailed answers in response to everyday questions. The examiner will also be looking for how naturally you speak and how well you can elaborate on your answers.

The questions in Part 1 are often straightforward and cover topics that most people are familiar with. In your answers, you should aim to provide more than just a “yes” or “no” answer; offer reasons, explanations, or examples where possible to demonstrate your ability to expand on a topic.

Likely Questions in Part 1 (Health Focus)

1. Is it important to eat healthy food? [Why/Why not?]

What the question tests:
This question evaluates your ability to explain the importance of health and diet. The examiner is looking for a response that goes beyond a simple opinion, asking you to support your answer with reasons or examples.

Sample Answer:
“Yes, it’s definitely important to eat healthy food because it provides our bodies with the nutrients we need to function properly. A balanced diet helps us maintain energy levels, improve our immune system, and even boost our mood. For example, eating a variety of fruits and vegetables ensures that we get the vitamins and minerals we need, while whole grains can help us maintain a healthy weight. Additionally, a healthy diet can lower the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and obesity, which are becoming more common these days.”

2. If you catch a cold, what do you do to feel better?

What the question tests:
This question assesses your ability to describe your personal actions and explain how you respond to a common situation. You may also be asked to provide details about habits or remedies.

Sample Answer:
“When I catch a cold, I usually try to rest as much as possible because that helps my body recover faster. I also drink plenty of fluids like warm tea with honey or water to stay hydrated. I avoid cold drinks, as they can sometimes make my symptoms worse. If my nose is congested, I use a saline nasal spray to clear it. And if I feel particularly unwell, I take over-the-counter cold medicine to ease my symptoms. Of course, I also try to eat nutritious food to support my immune system.”

3. Do you pay attention to public information about health? [Why/Why not?]

What the question tests:
This question is designed to see how much importance you place on public health advice and whether you engage with health information. You should explain why or why not, and provide examples where possible.

Sample Answer:
“Yes, I do pay attention to public health information because it helps me stay informed about how to protect my health and well-being. For example, during flu season, health authorities often give advice on vaccinations or preventive measures like washing hands regularly. I also follow news reports on healthy eating and lifestyle habits to ensure that I’m making informed choices. Public health campaigns can be very helpful, especially when it comes to tackling issues like smoking or promoting physical activity.”

4. What would you do to have a healthier lifestyle?

What the question tests:
This question looks at your personal approach to health and fitness. It assesses your ability to express how you would improve your habits or maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Sample Answer:
“To have a healthier lifestyle, I would focus on making some small but important changes to my daily routine. First, I would aim to exercise more regularly, such as going for a run or doing yoga several times a week. I’d also make sure to eat more fresh fruits and vegetables and cut back on processed foods. Another thing I’d like to do is get more sleep because I know that rest is essential for good health. Finally, I would try to manage stress better by practicing mindfulness techniques, like meditation, and making time to relax.”

Summary of Part 1 Test and Approach:

What the examiner is testing:
In Part 1, the examiner is looking at how clearly and naturally you can answer personal questions. They want to assess:

• Fluency and coherence: Can you speak clearly and without hesitation?
• Vocabulary range: Can you use a variety of words to explain yourself?
• Pronunciation: Is your speech easy to understand?
• Grammar: Are your sentences grammatically correct, and do you use a variety of sentence structures?

How to answer questions in Part 1:

• Keep your answers brief but informative. Provide enough detail to show your ability to elaborate, but don’t go off-topic.
• Be natural and confident in your responses. Don’t worry too much about making mistakes; focus on explaining your answers clearly.
• Use examples or personal experiences to back up your answers whenever possible.
• Avoid giving one-word answers; instead, expand on your thoughts to show the examiner you can discuss a topic in more depth.

Part 2: Long Turn (3-4 minutes)

In Part 2, the IELTS Speaking examiner will give you a task card with a topic, and you will have 1 minute to prepare your response. After the preparation time, you will be asked to speak for 1-2 minutes on the topic. It is important to organize your thoughts during the IELTS Speaking preparation time and speak for the full time without interruption.

Sample Question 1:

Describe a book you have recently read. You should say:

• What the book is about
• When you read it
• Why you decided to read it
• And explain what you liked about it.

How to Answer:
Start by answering each bullet point clearly, one after the other. For example:

• “The book I want to talk about is ‘The Alchemist’ by Paulo Coelho. It’s a philosophical novel about a shepherd named Santiago who embarks on a journey to find a hidden treasure.”
• “I read this book about six months ago, during a holiday trip I took to the mountains.”
• “I decided to read it because I’d heard many people praise it for its inspiring message about following your dreams. I also enjoy reading books that provide life lessons.”
• “What I really liked about the book was its message of perseverance and the idea that the universe conspires to help you achieve your personal legend. It inspired me to take more risks in my own life and pursue my passions.”

This format allows you to cover all aspects of the question, and providing examples or personal reflections can make your response more engaging.

Sample Question 2:

Describe a place you would like to visit in the future. You should say:

• Where it is
• What you know about this place
• Why you want to visit it
• And explain what you would like to do there.

How to Answer:

• “The place I would like to visit is Kyoto, Japan. It is known for its beautiful temples, traditional tea houses, and the stunning cherry blossoms in spring.”
• “I’ve read a lot about Kyoto’s rich history and culture, particularly its ancient architecture and the preserved traditional gardens.”
• “I want to visit Kyoto because I’ve always been fascinated by Japanese culture and history. It’s a place where I could experience the tranquility of old Japan.”
• “In Kyoto, I would love to visit the Kinkaku-ji temple, take part in a traditional tea ceremony, and explore the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.”

For Part 2, remember to use your 1-minute preparation time wisely. Jot down quick notes to guide your response, but make sure to speak naturally and maintain a steady flow. You don’t need to memorize anything; just talk about the topic with as much detail as you can within the time limit.

Key Tips for Part 2:

• Use your preparation time wisely; plan your answer in bullet points.
• Speak for the full 1-2 minutes. Don’t rush your response.
• Stay focused on the topic, and try to provide clear details, examples, and personal opinions.
• Use linking words (like “firstly,” “in addition,” “finally”) to structure your speech.

Part 3: Discussion (4-5 minutes)

Part 3 of the IELTS Speaking involves a deeper discussion of abstract or more complex issues. The examiner will ask questions related to the topic you spoke about in Part 2. This section evaluates your ability to discuss more sophisticated ideas and express your opinions clearly, using appropriate language.

Sample Question 1:

Why do people like to travel to different countries?
To answer this, start by giving an overview and then provide specific examples.

• “There are several reasons why people like to travel to different countries. One major reason is to experience new cultures and traditions. Traveling allows people to broaden their horizons and learn about the world.”
• “Additionally, people travel to relax and escape their routine lives. Visiting a new destination can be refreshing and provide a much-needed break from everyday stresses.”

Sample Question 2:

How do you think tourism affects the economy of a country?
Here, your response should cover both positive and negative effects.

• “Tourism can have a significant positive impact on a country’s economy. It creates jobs, boosts local businesses, and generates revenue from attractions and services.”
• “However, excessive tourism can also lead to problems like overcrowding, environmental degradation, and increased costs of living for local residents. It’s important for countries to find a balance between welcoming tourists and protecting local communities.”

Key Tips for Part 3:

• Provide well-thought-out responses and avoid giving overly simple answers.
• Express your opinion and support it with examples or reasons.
• Stay calm and focused, even if the questions are challenging.
• Don’t worry if you don’t have an answer to a specific question—explain why or give your best guess.

Final Tips for All Parts of the IELTS Speaking:

• Speak naturally and confidently. Don’t worry about making mistakes—focus on expressing your ideas clearly.
• Listen carefully to the examiner’s questions and take a moment to think if necessary.
• Practice regularly to get comfortable with speaking English for extended periods.
• Stay on topic and give detailed answers to show your ability to communicate effectively.

By preparing for each part of the IELTS Speaking test, you can increase your chances of performing well and achieving a high score.

9.0, 8.0,… IELTS Speaking Responses

Certainly! Here’s a breakdown of how responses for Part 2 of the IELTS Speaking test could vary in quality, from a score of 9.0 to 5.0. The sample question is:

Describe a place you would like to visit in the future. You should say:

• Where it is
• What you know about this place
• Why you want to visit it
• And explain what you would like to do there

Band 9.0 Response (Fluent, Fully Detailed, and Natural)

Response:
“One place I’ve always dreamed of visiting is Kyoto, Japan. Kyoto is a city steeped in history, known for its breathtaking temples, ancient shrines, and traditional tea houses. It’s located in the Kansai region of Japan, and what makes it particularly special is its preservation of traditional Japanese culture, despite being close to modern cities like Osaka.

I first learned about Kyoto through a documentary on Japanese culture and later did some more reading. What fascinated me the most is how Kyoto has managed to preserve its centuries-old heritage, particularly through its famous UNESCO World Heritage sites, such as the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji) and the Fushimi Inari Shrine, with its thousands of red torii gates. I’ve always been drawn to places that offer a blend of historical significance and natural beauty.

The main reason I want to visit Kyoto is to experience Japan’s rich culture firsthand. For me, it would be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to immerse myself in a city where history and modernity coexist harmoniously. I love the idea of exploring the Zen gardens, visiting the traditional Geisha districts like Gion, and maybe even trying a traditional tea ceremony. I’m also particularly excited about the cherry blossoms in spring, which I’ve seen in photos and would love to experience in person.

If I had the chance to visit, I’d probably spend most of my time exploring the temples, learning about the ancient customs, and savoring the traditional Japanese food. I’d also love to go for a walk in the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, which seems like a truly peaceful and magical place to connect with nature. Overall, Kyoto is the perfect combination of history, culture, and natural beauty, and I can’t wait to see it with my own eyes someday.”

Band 8.0 Response (Clear and Detailed with Some Minor Issues)

Response:
“A place I would really like to visit in the future is Kyoto, Japan. Kyoto is a beautiful city, known for its historical significance and its stunning temples. It’s located in the Kansai region of Japan, and it used to be the capital of Japan for over a thousand years. What makes Kyoto special is its ability to maintain traditional Japanese culture while being close to a modern city like Osaka.

I’ve read a lot about Kyoto, especially about its famous temples, such as the Golden Pavilion and the Fushimi Inari Shrine, which has these iconic red gates. The city is also famous for its tea houses and beautiful gardens. I find it interesting how the people there have kept the old traditions alive, like the tea ceremony and wearing kimonos.

The main reason I want to visit Kyoto is to experience the culture and history that I’ve heard so much about. I’ve always been fascinated by Japanese culture, and Kyoto seems like the perfect place to immerse myself in it. I also want to see the cherry blossoms during spring because they are so iconic in Japan.

When I visit, I would like to spend a lot of time exploring the temples and shrines. I would also like to try some traditional Japanese food and maybe visit a tea house. I think walking through the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove would be really peaceful, and I’ve seen photos that make it look magical. Overall, I think Kyoto is a perfect blend of tradition and beauty, and it’s at the top of my list.”

Band 7.0 Response (Good, but May Have Some Hesitation or Minor Language Errors)

Response:
“A place I’d really like to visit in the future is Kyoto, Japan. Kyoto is a city with lots of history and is famous for its temples, gardens, and traditional culture. It used to be the capital of Japan for many years before Tokyo took over. Kyoto is in the Kansai region, and it’s known for places like the Golden Pavilion and the Fushimi Inari Shrine, which is famous for its red gates.

I learned about Kyoto from a travel book, and I was really interested in the traditional culture, like the Geisha districts and the tea ceremonies. I think what attracts me most is how the city mixes modern life with old traditions. I’ve always been fascinated by Japanese culture, so Kyoto seems like the perfect place to experience that.

The main reason I want to go is because of its culture and history. I really want to see the temples and try the food, which I’ve heard is delicious. I also want to see the cherry blossoms in spring, as they’re such an important part of Japanese culture. When I visit, I’d like to explore the temples, and I think I’d enjoy going to a tea house and having a traditional Japanese meal.

In conclusion, Kyoto is a place that offers a lot of cultural experiences and beautiful sights, and I hope I can visit it in the future.”

Band 6.0 Response (Clear, but Lacks Detail or Has Some Limited Language Use)

Response:
“A place I want to visit is Kyoto in Japan. Kyoto is known for its temples and old buildings. It used to be the capital of Japan. I learned about Kyoto from a documentary. The Golden Pavilion and the Fushimi Inari Shrine are very famous.

I want to go to Kyoto because I think it has a lot of old history. I also heard that the food there is really good, and I would like to try it. Kyoto is famous for its cherry blossoms, and I want to see them because I know they are beautiful.

If I visit, I would visit the temples and take pictures. I would also like to go to a tea ceremony and try Japanese food. I think it will be a very interesting place to see.”

Band 5.0 Response (Limited Response, Some Hesitation or Lack of Detail)

Response:
“I would like to go to Kyoto. It’s in Japan and it has a lot of temples. I think it used to be the capital. I read about it before, but I don’t know much. The Golden Pavilion is there, I think.

I want to go because it’s famous for its temples and I think I would like to see them. I also heard the food is good, so I want to try it. And I know there are cherry trees there.

I think I will visit the temples, maybe take some pictures. I want to try Japanese food too. It will be fun.”

Summary of the IELTS Speaking Band Descriptions:

• Band 9.0: The response is fluent, with detailed information, good organization, and no hesitation. The speaker uses a wide range of vocabulary and grammar accurately.
• Band 8.0: Clear and detailed response with minor issues. The speaker may occasionally have a slight hesitation or less natural phrasing, but still communicates effectively.
• Band 7.0: The response is good but may lack some depth, detail, or variety in vocabulary. The speaker may have occasional pauses or simpler sentence structures.
• Band 6.0: The response is clear but lacks detailed examples. Vocabulary and grammar may be limited, and there may be some hesitations or errors in structure.
• Band 5.0: The response is basic, with a lot of hesitations or a lack of detail. The speaker struggles to organize thoughts or uses limited vocabulary and grammar.

To achieve a higher score, focus on providing detailed, well-structured answers and avoid long pauses.

For more information on the IELTS Speaking and to get more IELTS Speaking questions, please check here