Speaking Part 3 is a crucial component of the IELTS speaking test that typically lasts 4-5 minutes. This two-way discussion requires candidates to demonstrate their ability to express and justify opinions on abstract topics related to the Part 2 cue card. Similar to what’s the weather like today ielts answers, your responses should be well-developed and natural.
IELTS examiner and candidate engaged in Part 3 discussion
Common Part 3 Question Types
Abstract Questions
- What role does technology play in modern education?
- How might society change in the next 50 years?
- What are the major challenges facing urban development?
Like describe an activity you do to unwind, these questions require thoughtful analysis and personal insight.
Sample Question and Responses
Question: “How do you think social media affects relationships between people?”
Band 6-7 Response:
“I think social media has both positive and negative effects on relationships. On one hand, it helps people stay connected with friends and family who live far away. However, it can also make people less social in real life.”
Band 8-9 Response:
“Social media has fundamentally transformed interpersonal relationships in the digital age. While it has undeniably enhanced our ability to maintain long-distance connections and facilitate instant communication, it has simultaneously led to a concerning decline in face-to-face interactions. This paradoxical nature of social media means that while we’re more connected than ever digitally, we might be experiencing less meaningful personal interactions.”
Strategies for High Scores
Development of Ideas
When discussing topics like are there many places to swim near you ielts, ensure to:
- Provide detailed explanations
- Include relevant examples
- Consider multiple perspectives
Candidate demonstrating speaking strategies during IELTS test
Advanced Language Features
Key Vocabulary:
- Paradoxical nature
- Profound impact
- Fundamental shift
- Intrinsic value
- Paradigm change
Similar to describe an unexpected act of kindness you witnessed, use sophisticated vocabulary naturally within context.
Critical Analysis
- Compare and contrast different viewpoints
- Analyze cause and effect relationships
- Provide balanced arguments with supporting evidence
As with describe a moment when you received unexpected help, demonstrate critical thinking skills through well-structured responses.
Time Management Tips
Response Structure
- Initial response (30-40 seconds)
- Supporting points (60-90 seconds)
- Examples and elaboration (60-90 seconds)
- Conclusion (30 seconds)
Advanced Speaking Techniques
Signposting Language
- “Let me approach this from a different angle…”
- “This brings me to my next point…”
- “To illustrate this further…”
- “What’s particularly interesting about this is…”
Extended Response Formula
- Main idea
- Supporting explanation
- Real-world example
- Personal insight
- Broader implication
These techniques help maintain fluency and coherence throughout the 4-5 minute discussion, ensuring comprehensive responses that demonstrate high-level English proficiency.
