Similar to describe an item of clothing you like to wear, questions about shoes are common in IELTS Speaking tests, particularly in Part 1. Let’s explore how to answer them effectively to achieve a high band score.
Part 1: Common Questions and Sample Answers
Typical Questions
- What type of shoes do you usually wear?
- Do you have a favorite pair of shoes?
- How often do you buy new shoes?
- What do you consider when buying shoes?
Sample Answer (Band 8-9)
“I’m particularly fond of sneakers, especially my Nike Air Max. They’re incredibly versatile and provide exceptional comfort for my daily activities. I tend to prioritize both style and functionality when choosing shoes, and these perfectly strike that balance.”
Part 2: Cue Card
Topic
Describe your favorite type of shoes.
You should say:
- What type of shoes they are
- When you bought them
- Why you like them
- And explain how often you wear them
Candidate describing favorite sneakers with enthusiasm
Sample Answer (Band 8-9)
“Let me tell you about my absolute favorite pair of shoes, which are my Nike Air Max sneakers. I acquired them about six months ago during a describe a recent shopping experience you had at a specialty store.
What particularly appeals to me about these shoes is their exceptional versatility. They’re remarkably comfortable for both casual wear and athletic activities. The innovative air cushioning technology provides outstanding support for my feet, especially during long walks or workouts.
I make a point of wearing them at least four times a week. They complement most of my casual outfits perfectly, much like how describe an occasion when you wore a costume requires careful consideration of the overall look.”
Part 3: Discussion Questions
Sample Questions and Answers
Q: How have shoe trends changed over the years?
Band 8-9 Answer:
“Shoe trends have undergone a significant transformation over the decades. We’ve witnessed a remarkable shift from purely functional footwear to shoes that blend aesthetics with practicality. The rise of athleisure has revolutionized how people view everyday footwear, making comfort-focused designs more socially acceptable in various settings.”
Historical evolution of shoe trends discussion
Key Vocabulary and Phrases
Advanced Terms
- Versatile (adj.) /ˈvɜːsətaɪl/ – adaptable to many uses
- Ergonomic (adj.) /ˌɜːɡəˈnɒmɪk/ – designed for efficiency and comfort
- Aesthetically pleasing (phrase) – visually attractive
- Durability (n.) /djʊəˈbɪləti/ – ability to last long
Examiner’s Tips
- Use specific examples to illustrate your points
- Incorporate advanced vocabulary naturally
- Maintain good fluency while discussing different aspects
- Include personal experiences to make answers more authentic
Like describe a film you want to watch again, your responses should be detailed and engaging, showing both language proficiency and genuine interest in the topic.
