Recent changes in lifestyle patterns have made this topic increasingly relevant in IELTS Speaking tests. Similar to describe a place in your city where people gather for social activities, this question explores how people adapt their daily lives.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview Questions
Common questions include:
- Do you follow a daily routine?
- How often do you change your routine?
- What affects your daily schedule most?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I generally maintain a structured daily schedule, but I’m also flexible enough to adapt when necessary. External factors like work deadlines or family commitments occasionally necessitate adjustments to my routine.”
IELTS candidate discussing daily routine changes with examiner
Part 2: Cue Card
Speaking prompt:
Describe a time when you changed your daily routine
You should say:
- What the change was
- Why you made this change
- How you felt about it
And explain if this change was successfulSample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to talk about a significant modification I made to my daily schedule last year, similar to describe an outdoor activity you enjoy doing regularly. I implemented a morning exercise routine, shifting my wake-up time from 7:00 AM to 5:30 AM.
The catalyst for this change was my deteriorating health and constant fatigue. After consulting with a wellness expert, I realized the importance of morning exercise for both physical and mental well-being.
Initially, it was tremendously challenging to adjust my body clock. However, I gradually acclimated to the new schedule by incrementally adjusting my sleeping time. The most rewarding aspect was experiencing increased energy levels throughout the day.
This change proved remarkably successful. Not only did my physical health improve substantially, but I also noticed enhanced productivity at work. It’s been over a year, and I’ve maintained this routine consistently.”
Sample Answer (Band 6-7):
“I want to talk about when I changed my morning routine. I started waking up earlier to exercise. I made this change because I was feeling tired all the time. At first, it was very hard to wake up early, but slowly I got used to it. Now I feel better and have more energy during the day.”
Person exercising early morning as part of new routine
Part 3: Discussion Questions
Q1: Why do people sometimes need to change their routines?
Band 8-9 response:
“People often necessitate routine changes due to various factors. Career advancement might demand increased flexibility, while personal development goals could require time reallocation. Additionally, significant life events, as discussed in describe a piece of technology that has improved your life, frequently precipitate substantial lifestyle adjustments.”
Q2: Is it easier for younger or older people to change their routines?
Band 8-9 response:
“While younger individuals generally demonstrate greater adaptability, owing to their neuroplasticity and fewer established habits, older people often possess more disciplined approaches to implementing changes. The key factor isn’t necessarily age but rather one’s mindset and motivation.”
Key Vocabulary and Phrases
- Implement changes (phrasal verb) – to put changes into effect
- Acclimate (verb) /ˈækləmeɪt/ – to adjust to new conditions
- Catalyst (noun) /ˈkætəlɪst/ – something that causes activity between two or more persons or forces
- Precipitate (verb) /prɪˈsɪpɪteɪt/ – to cause something to happen suddenly
- Neuroplasticity (noun) /ˌnjʊərəʊplæˈstɪsəti/ – the brain’s ability to adapt to changes
Examiner’s Tips
- Focus on specific details when describing the change
- Use a variety of tenses appropriately
- Include personal feelings and reactions
- Structure your answer with clear progression
- Support main points with relevant examples
Remember to practice these responses while maintaining natural speech patterns and appropriate pace. Like describe an animal you have kept as a pet, personal experiences make the most convincing answers.
