The IELTS Speaking test is a face-to-face interview between the test-taker and an examiner, lasting between 11 to 14 minutes. It is divided into three parts:
- Part 1: Introduction and Interview.
- Part 2: Long Turn.
- Part 3: Two-way Discussion.
To excel in the speaking test, it is crucial to understand what the examiners look for. These include fluency and coherence, lexical resource, grammatical range and accuracy, and pronunciation. In Part 2, you will be given a cue card and have one minute to prepare before speaking for up to two minutes on a given topic.
One popular topic you might encounter is “Describe a recent change in your daily routine.” This article will provide model answers, key vocabulary, and tips to help you prepare for this question.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, the examiner will ask you general questions about yourself. Here are some examples.
Question: What do you like to do in your free time?
Answer: In my free time, I enjoy reading novels, particularly mysteries and thrillers. I find them incredibly engaging and a great way to unwind after a long day. Additionally, I like to go for walks in the park, which helps me stay physically active and mentally refreshed.
Part 2: Long Turn
Cue Card
Describe a recent change in your daily routine. You should say:
- What the change was
- When it happened
- How you felt about it
- And explain what difference it has made to your daily life.
Sample Answer
A recent change in my daily routine is that I started waking up one hour earlier than usual to incorporate a morning workout into my schedule. This change happened about two months ago when I decided that I needed to improve my physical health and overall well-being.
Initially, it was quite challenging to adjust to waking up earlier, as I had been accustomed to sleeping in a bit later. However, I soon began to notice the benefits of this new routine. I felt more energetic and focused throughout the day, and my overall mood improved significantly.
The most evident difference this change has made is in my productivity levels. By starting my day with a workout, I have more time to plan and accomplish my tasks effectively. Furthermore, my physical health has shown considerable improvement—I feel fitter and more agile.
To sum up, this adjustment in my daily routine has been a significant positive change. It has not only helped me achieve my fitness goals but also allowed me to manage my time better and face the day with more determination and enthusiasm.
Follow-up Questions
Question: Do you think it’s important to have a daily routine?
Answer: Yes, having a daily routine is crucial as it helps manage time efficiently and brings structure to our lives. It can lead to increased productivity and better mental health.
Question: How do people’s routines differ on weekdays and weekends?
Answer: Generally, weekdays are more structured and busy due to work or school, whereas weekends are typically more relaxed and provide an opportunity to unwind, pursue hobbies or social activities.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Sample Examiner Questions and Answers
Examiner: How do new technologies affect people’s daily routines?
Candidate: New technologies have dramatically transformed our daily routines. For instance, smartphones and computers allow us to work remotely, manage our schedules more efficiently, and stay connected with others easily. Digital calendars and planning apps have become essential tools for many. However, there is a downside as well; the constant connectivity can sometimes lead to stress and an inability to disconnect from work.
Examiner: Can you think of any significant changes in daily routines across generations?
Candidate: Yes, there are considerable differences. For example, previous generations followed more traditional schedules with fixed eating and sleeping times. Nowadays, many people’s routines are more flexible, often influenced by late-night work shifts or irregular meal patterns due to hectic lifestyles. We rely more on technology to manage our time, compared to earlier generations who might have relied more on natural cues or manual scheduling.
Vocabulary and Phrases to Boost Your Speaking Score
Here are some key terms and phrases to help you craft a high-scoring response:
Incorporate (v) /ɪnˈkɔːrpəreɪt/ – to include something as part of a plan or system.
Example: I’ve started incorporating a 30-minute meditation session into my routine every morning.Accustomed (adj) /əˈkʌstəmd/ – familiar with something so that it seems normal or usual.
Example: I had become accustomed to working late into the night.Energetic (adj) /ˌenərˈdʒetɪk/ – having or showing a lot of energy.
Example: After starting my day with exercise, I feel more energetic.Agile (adj) /ˈædʒaɪl/ – able to move quickly and easily.
Example: I feel fitter and more agile since I began working out regularly.
Tips for High Scores in IELTS Speaking
- Practice regularly: Regular practice will help you improve your fluency and coherence.
- Use varied vocabulary: Demonstrate a wide range of vocabulary.
- Mind your grammar: Pay attention to your grammatical range and accuracy.
- Work on pronunciation: Clear pronunciation is essential for effective communication.
- Stay calm and focused: Nervousness can affect your performance, so try to stay calm.
By following these tips and thoroughly preparing for your IELTS Speaking test, you can maximize your chances of achieving a high band score.
morning workout routine
For more useful articles and tips on how to succeed in the IELTS exam, check out these links:
- Describe a recent experience that changed your outlook
- Describe a recent social media trend
- Describe a recent health or fitness trend
Incorporate this advice into your preparation, and you will be well-equipped to tackle the IELTS Speaking test with confidence.