The IELTS Speaking test evaluates your ability to communicate effectively in English. As an experienced IELTS examiner, I’ll share proven strategies and sample answers to help you excel in all three parts of the speaking test.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
Common questions examiners frequently ask:
About Your Home/Accommodation
Sample Question: “Where do you live?”
Band 6-7 Answer:
“I live in an apartment in the city center with my family. It’s quite convenient because it’s close to my workplace.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“I currently reside in a spacious apartment in the heart of the city. What I particularly appreciate about the location is its proximity to various amenities, including my workplace and several cultural venues.”
IELTS speaking test interaction between examiner and candidate
Part 2: Long Turn
Sample Cue Card
Describe a recent memorable family meal. You should say:
- When and where it took place
- Who was present
- What you ate
- And explain why it was memorable
[describe a recent memorable family meal]
Band 6-7 Sample Answer:
“I want to talk about a family dinner we had last month. It was my grandmother’s birthday, and we all gathered at her house. There were about 10 people, including my parents, siblings, and cousins. We had traditional dishes like roasted chicken and vegetables. It was special because we rarely get together like this anymore.”
Band 8-9 Sample Answer:
“I’d like to share about an extraordinary family gathering that took place at my grandmother’s charming countryside home last month. The occasion was her 70th birthday celebration, which brought together three generations of our family. The highlight of the evening was an exquisitely prepared traditional feast, featuring her signature roasted chicken with herbs from her garden. What made this occasion particularly memorable was how it fostered such intimate conversations and strengthened our family bonds.”
[describe an annual celebration in your family]
Part 3: Discussion
Question: “Do you think family meals are becoming less important in modern society?”
Band 6-7 Answer:
“Yes, I think family meals are becoming less common because people are busier now. Many people work late or have different schedules, making it hard to eat together.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“There’s been a noticeable shift in how families approach mealtimes in contemporary society. The demands of modern life, including irregular work schedules and digital distractions, have undeniably impacted traditional dining patterns. However, I believe this makes family meals even more significant as they provide a rare opportunity for meaningful connection and maintaining family traditions.”
[describe a situation where you felt very emotional]
Key Vocabulary and Expressions for High Scores
-
Sophisticated Vocabulary:
- Cultivate (relationships)
- Foster (connections)
- Integral (part)
- Paramount (importance)
-
Advanced Structures:
- “What strikes me about…”
- “I can’t help but think…”
- “It’s worth noting that…”
[describe a time when you participated in a community activity]
Examiner’s Tips
- Practice Natural Delivery:
- Record yourself speaking
- Focus on intonation and stress
- Maintain appropriate pace
- Expand Your Responses:
- Provide relevant examples
- Support opinions with reasons
- Use connecting phrases
[why people drop things on the street ielts part 2]
Essential strategies for IELTS speaking test preparation
Remember to maintain eye contact, speak confidently, and use a variety of vocabulary and grammatical structures to demonstrate your language proficiency. Regular practice with these strategies will help you achieve your desired band score.