Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Rayhan Chowdhury
CONTENTS
General Dos and Donts........................................................................................................ 3
Band expectations .................................................................................................................. 4
General Preparation............................................................................................................... 6
Vocabulary for Band 6-6.5..................................................................................................... 8
Vocabulary for Band 7-9 ........................................................................................................ 9
Conversation fillers .............................................................................................................. 10
If you forget words ............................................................................................................... 10
Asking for clarification......................................................................................................... 12
Being spontaneous ............................................................................................................... 14
Pronunciation tips ................................................................................................................ 15
Dealing with nerves .............................................................................................................. 17
Develop your answers ......................................................................................................... 18
Grammar for part 1............................................................................................................... 19
If you do not have an opinion .............................................................................................. 21
Sample answers for part 1 .................................................................................................. 22
Using preparation time (part 2) .......................................................................................... 26
Beginning your answer (part 2) .......................................................................................... 27
Time management (part 2) .................................................................................................. 28
Describing people ................................................................................................................ 29
Describing objects ............................................................................................................... 33
Describing an event ............................................................................................................. 35
Describing places ................................................................................................................. 37
Buying time ............................................................................................................................ 39
Speaking topics .................................................................................................................... 41
Grammar for part 3............................................................................................................... 43
Giving opinions ..................................................................................................................... 46
Connecting ideas .................................................................................................................. 47
Giving examples.................................................................................................................... 51
GENERAL DOS AND DONTS
Before discussing specific strategies to help you in the IELTS speaking test, lets look at
some general dos and donts. These will give you a general idea of what is required to get
a successful band in the test. This Book will discuss and explain these tips in more detail.
Do
listen to the questions carefully
speak clearly
Dont
give very short answers
3
BAND EXPECTATIONS
Be realistic about your goals. If your level of English is around band 5, then do not expect to
achieve a band 7. Try to aim slightly above your current level. For example, if you took the
test and achieved a band 5.5, then you should try to aim for a 6-6.5 next time.
If you are too ambitious and try to learn very advanced idioms or phrasal verbs that are
inappropriate for your level, you might use them incorrectly, and your English will not sound
very natural. In the worst case, the examiner will not understand what you are trying to say.
Here are some simplified requirements for each band according to the IELTS official site. Try
to decide what level you are or ask your teacher.
You can sometimes use synonyms, but in general you have problems saying things in
a different way.
You can easily produce simple sentences (e.g. I live in Dhaka), but you have
difficulty with more complex sentences (e.g. I moved to England when I finished my
studies).
It is sometimes difficult to understand what you are trying to say when you try
to produce a more complex sentence.
Your pronunciation and sentence stress is sometimes clear enough but at other times
it is difficult for the listener to understand you.
4
SPEAKING BAND 6
You can speak at length more easily, but you sometimes hesitate and
correct yourself.
You can use a range of connecting words and phrases (e.g. however, but, yet, so, on
the other hand), but not always appropriately.
Your vocabulary is wide enough to talk about different topics at length and the
meaning of what you are trying to say is generally clear.
You can use synonyms and say same the same things in different ways, but
not always successfully.
You can use a mix of simple and complex grammatical structures but you may
make frequent mistakes with complex structures, e.g. conditionals, perfect tenses.
SPEAKING BAND 7
You can speak at length with only occasional hesitation and self-correction.
You can use a wide range of connecting words and phrases.
You can use less common vocabulary, idiomatic phrases and collocations.
However, you sometimes make bad choices.
You can easily use synonyms and say the same things in different ways.
You can use complex grammatical structures (conditionals, perfect tenses, etc.)
but with occasional mistakes.
Your pronunciation is generally good enough for you to be understood clearly.
SPEAKING BAND 8
You can speak fluently with occasional self-correction.
You only hesitate when thinking about what to say, not how to express it in English.
You can develop topics easily and appropriately.
You have a wide vocabulary and you can express very precise meaning.
You can use less common vocabulary, idiomatic phrases and collocations, with only
occasional inaccuracies.
You can use a wide range of complex grammatical structures with only occasional
errors.
Your pronunciation is good and it is very easy to understand what you are saying.
SPEAKING BAND 9
You can speak fluently with very rare self-correction.
You only hesitate when thinking about what to say, not how to express it.
You have a wide vocabulary and you can express very precise meaning.
You can use less common vocabulary, idiomatic phrases and collocations.
You can use a wide range of complex grammatical structures with only
occasional slips that a typical native speaker would make.
Your pronunciation is very accurate and it is very easy to understand you.
5
GENERAL PREPARATION
The best way to prepare for the IELTS speaking test is to practise with a teacher as much
as possible. However, if you are preparing by yourself or if you want to use your spare time
more efficiently, you will find the following suggestions useful.
THINK ALOUD
Instead of thinking in your own language, try thinking aloud in English. For instance, instead
of planning your day in your native language, say it in English, for example Okay, today
Ive got an important meeting. I should get going. Im going to be late, etc. This will make
you feel more comfortable speaking English.
6
WATCH FILMS
Watching films is a good way to improve your spoken English. The more you listen to native
speakers, the more confident you will become in speaking. Try to understand what the actors
are saying. Pay attention to the subtitles or look up words in a dictionary. Try to follow the
subtitles in your own language first, and then in English when you feel more confident. Some
students find it useful to watch English comedies, for example Monty Python. In order to
understand the jokes, you will need to look up the meaning of certain words.
www.mylanguageexchange.com
www.italki.com www.busuu.com
www.podcastsinenglish.com
www.bbc.co.uk/worldservice/learningenglish
www.eslpod.com
7
VOCABULARY FOR BAND 6-6.5
If you are aiming for band 6-6.5 your vocabulary must be wide enough to talk about any
topic at length, and you need to be more precise with your words than for lower bands.
For example, if you repeatedly describe the weather as good, this shows that you have a
limited range of vocabulary. If you want to get a 6 or higher, you need to be more precise.
How is the weather good? Is it nice and sunny? Is it clear and dry?
Lets study the difference between precise vocabulary and imprecise vocabulary.
Imprecise: The weather in my country is good in summer and not good in winter.
Precise: The weather in my country is nice and sunny in summer and very cold in
winter.
Imprecise: There are many people in my country who are without job.
Precise: There are many unemployed people in my country. /
Unemployment is very high in my country.
8
VOCABULARY FOR BAND 7-9
In order to achieve a very high band in the IELTS speaking test, you need to demonstrate
that you can use less common vocabulary, including idioms and less common collocations.
Lets look at how you can say common sentences in a less common way:
Common: Korean people think that they are good singers, so they enjoy karaoke.
Less common: Korean people regard themselves as being talented singers, so they
enjoy karaoke.
Common: People in my country are spending less money because of the crisis.
Less common: People in my country are tightening their belts because of the crisis.
Common: In my country, if you are rich you can do bad things and not get punished.
Less common: In my country, if you are wealthy you can get away with murder.
9
CONVERSATION FILLERS
In the IELTS speaking test, you often need to think about what to say next. But this does not
mean that you cannot demonstrate your command of English while you are thinking. When
English native speakers do not know what to say, they are not completely silent. They use
conversation fillers words and phrases to fill the space. Here are some examples.
Well, .
So, .
Let me think .
Lets see
I guess
I suppose
I would say
Basically
Examiner: Is there any other work you would like to do in the future?
Candidate: Hmm well, I suppose consulting would be interesting.
10
IF YOU FORGET WORDS
During the IELTS speaking test you might forget some words because you are nervous.
Try not to worry! You can use other words to describe what you want to say.
The expressions below will help you explain what you mean and at the same time
demonstrate your speaking skills to the examiner.
I dont know what you call it, but you use it to cut grass.
(a lawnmower)
I cant remember the word for it, but its used for changing the TV channel.
(a remote control)
I cant remember the word for them, but they help you to see under water.
(goggles)
Ive forgotten the name for it, but its a type of fish with large head and is normally
quite expensive.
(King prawn)
I dont recall the word for this profession, but its a person who helps passengers on a
plane.
(a flight attendant)
Ive forgotten the verb, but its when you change the colour of something, for
example your hair or your car.
(dye)
ADVANCED EXPRESSIONS
Consider using these expressions if you aiming for band 7-9:
The name of this crime is on the tip of my tongue but I cant quite recall it. Its a form
of crime where someone dishonestly takes money that is entrusted to him or her.
(embezzlement)
The name of this condition has completely slipped my mind. Its when you have problems
breathing. (asthma)
Ive never come across the name of this animal in English. Its a nocturnal bird
with large eyes, a flat face and a flexible neck. (an owl)
11
ASKING FOR CLARIFICATION
If the examiner asks you a question that you do not understand, do not panic. Instead,
see this as an opportunity to demonstrate your communication skills by asking for
clarification. Study the expressions below.
I havent heard that word before. Could you explain what you mean?
Sorry, Im not sure what that word means. Could you explain it another way?
Sorry, I dont know what exaggerate means. Could you explain it another
way?
Sorry, Ive forgotten what exaggerate means. Could you explain it another
way?
Excuse me, I didn't quite catch that. Could you say it again?
Sorry, I didnt hear what you said. Could you repeat it?
I'm sorry, but would you mind repeating that? (more polite)
12
CHECKING UNDERSTANDING
If you want to check that you understood something correctly, you can say something like:
By , do you mean ?
Examples of use
13
BEING SPONTANEOUS
While you are speaking, many new ideas may come into your head. This is another good
opportunity to show your communication skills. Here are some examples of expressions
you can use to introduce new ideas in a natural, spontaneous way.
Here are some examples of how these expressions can be used. In the examples below,
the candidate is talking about why she likes a particular child (for part 2 of the test).
14
PRONUNCIATION TIPS
In order to get a high band in the IELTS speaking test, you dont need to speak with a British
or American accent, but you must be easily understood. This tip presents a few general tips
on how to make your English easier on the examiners ears.
You can listen to the correct pronunciation of any word by going to www.ivona.com,
entering the word in the text-to-speech box and pressing PLAY.
THE SCHWA //
The schwa is an unstressed vowel sound that is found in many English words. It is the
most common vowel sound in the English language and it can be spelled in many different
ways, for example:
Make the schwa with your jaws slightly open, your lips relaxed, and do not move
your tongue!
The schwa is represented by unstressed suffixes, for example -er, -ar, -or, -um, -an, -al,
-ous, -ough, -our, -and, -ent and -ion. Enter the words below at www.ivona.com and
repeat them.
-ous /s/ -ough // -our // -and /nd/ -ent /nt/ -ion /n/
dangerous thorough armour England ancient operation
tedious borough behaviour thousand current television
spacious flour husband basement nation
nervous harbour island competent action
precious humour highland silent region
15
The schwa is represented by unstressed prefixes, for example su-, pro-, to-, a-, sur- and
con-.
su- /s/ pro- /pr/ to- /t/ a- // sur- /s/ con- /kn/
suppose protect together ago surprise control
suffice provide tomorrow around survive connect
success proliferate today appropriate survivor convert
suspect (vb.) professional tonight allow surround conclude
subtract pronounce torrential affect surreal condition
ADVANCED TIP
When native speakers speak at a natural speed, the pronunciation of many words changes
schwa becomes even more common. In the examples below, the schwa sound is highlighted
in yellow:
Read the sentences below first slowly and then quickly. Compare yourself to a native
speaker if possible.
16
DEALING WITH NERVES
Most people feel nervous before an oral exam. This is normal. Although stress is a personal
thing and can affect different people to different degrees, here are some tips on how to
reduce nerves before and during your IELTS speaking test.
THINK POSITIVE
Stress is caused by the way you think. If you imagine a negative experience during your
exam, for example not being able to understand the questions, you will start to panic a little.
It is important to realize that you have no idea how the exam will go until you take it. It
could be much easier than you expect. Before you go into the exam, try to remember a test
that you took in the past which was much easier than you had expected.
EXERCISE
Try to get a good nights sleep before the exam and start the day with a healthy breakfast.
Doing some exercise is also a good idea go for a run, walk or swim. This will take your
mind off the exam and help you to relax.
MEDITATE
On the day of your exam, you will have a lot of thoughts about the test How will it go? Will I
understand the questions? What will I do if I fail? What will I say if the examiner asks me .?
Find a quiet place to sit for 15-30 minutes. When a thought or image comes into your head,
try to observe it and feel the tension in your body. The thought and tension will disappear
and you will start to become a little more relaxed. Do not try to stop thinking. Just observe
your thoughts like you are watching a film.
IMAGINE A CONVERSATION
Try to think of the exam as a conversation with an acquaintance of yours, especially for parts
1 and 3. If you go into the exam thinking that you are going to take a test, you will put more
pressure on yourself.
17
DEVELOP YOUR ANSWERS
During part 1 of the IELTS speaking test, try to give full, relevant answers to the examiners
questions. Take a look at the sample answers below. Do not memorize any of these
answers, unless you can repeat them without sounding unnatural!
18
GRAMMAR FOR PART 1
In part one of the IELTS speaking test, you are asked about 12 general questions.
These questions will be about yourself, for example your hometown, your favourite
holiday destination, what books or films you like, your family, your neighbours, etc.
It is important to use correct grammar in your answers, so listen carefully to the questions
and pay special attention to the verb tenses that the examiner uses. You may be able to
answer using the same tense or you might prefer to use a different tense.
The examiner uses the present simple (do you do). We use the present simple when
we talk about regular, repeated activities in the present.
You can begin your answer with the same tense, for example:
I dont really have much spare time, but when I do, I like to
Here, the present continuous is used. We use the present continuous when we talk
about an activity that is taking place around the present time (but not necessarily right
at this present moment).
19
USING A DIFFERENT TENSE
You can also begin your answers with a different tense if appropriate.
If you are confident enough, you can try to use a more complex tense or structure than in the
question, especially if you are aiming for a high band. Study this example:
Candidate: No, Ive never met them personally, but my wife has chatted to them on
several occasions.
In the above example, the examiner uses the present simple but the candidate begins the
answer with the present perfect simple. We often use the present perfect simple to talk
about our general experiences things that we have done in the past without saying when
we did them.
Candidate: Well, I would if I had the time. Unfortunately, Im just too busy.
In the above example, the examiner uses the present simple but the candidate begins
the answer with a second conditional structure. We often use the second conditional to
talk about a hypothetical or imagined situation in the present or future.
20
IF YOU DO NOT HAVE AN OPINION
You do not need to have great ideas or opinions. The examiner is only evaluating your ability
to communicate in English. However, you have to give a relevant response to every
question. This shows that you have understood the question correctly. So, what do you say
if you dont have any ideas or opinions on a particular topic?
You can try inventing an opinion -- the examiner is not interested in the truth. However, if you
really have nothing to say, then its okay to tell the examiner that you do not have an opinion.
However, try to give your reasons and show good communication skills. You can say:
ADVANCED EXPRESSIONS
Consider using these expressions if you are aiming for band 7-9:
21
SAMPLE ANSWERS FOR PART 1
Read and listen to different answers for part 1 of the IELTS speaking test.
Study the analysis of each answer. Please do not learn these answers word for word. The
examiner is trained to notice pre-prepared answers.
Finally, remember that in the speaking test, you might hesitate and correct yourself, which
is natural. The possible band scores for each answer take that into account.
Candidate (Girl): Well, at the moment I study accounting. I want to later become an
accountant.
Her answer is a little short. She also makes a clear grammatical mistake: I want to later
become an accountant. She should say: I want to become an accountant later or I want to
become an accountant in the future.
This time she develops her answer well. She doesnt make any grammatical mistakes.
However, if she wants to be sure of getting a very high band, she could try using some less
common, more complex vocabulary.
Candidate: Well, right now Im still a student Im doing a degree in accounting. When I
graduate next year, fingers crossed, I hope to find a job in a reputable international company.
In this answer, She doesnt make any grammatical mistakes. She shows that she can
paraphrase and use collocations correctly (do a degree in something instead of
studying). She also demonstrates that she can use less common words (reputable) and
appropriate idiomatic vocabulary (fingers crossed).
22
EXAMINER: WHAT DO YOU DO TO STAY HEALTHY?
Candidate: Well, in general I try to eat healthy food lots of fruits and vegetables. And I
dont smoke. But I dont exercise and I like coffee very much.
She doesnt make any grammatical mistakes and uses appropriate vocabulary. However,
she only uses very common words in her answer.
Candidate: Well, I do try to keep a balanced diet, you know, eat lots of fruits and vegetables.
Besides that, I dont smoke. However, I dont do much exercise and Im rather fond of coffee.
In this answer, She speaks more naturally. She connects her sentences well and uses less
common vocabulary -- Im rather fond of coffee.
If she wants to be sure of getting an even higher band, she could use more less
common vocabulary, for example I try to refrain from smoking instead of I dont smoke.
Candidate: I think tenses are very difficult. You have too many tenses! In my language
there are only three. It is difficult to use them in speaking because I dont have time to think
which tense am I supposed to use.
She makes only one grammatical mistake she should say I dont have time to think which
tense I am supposed to use. Her vocabulary is generally appropriate, but she uses very
common words in her answer. If she wants to be sure of getting a higher band, she could try
to be more precise, e.g. Its more challenging to use them in speaking than in writing
because you have to think on the spot.
23
Candidate: I would say learning the phrasal verbs is pretty tricky. Its easy to memorize
a long list of them but its not that easy to put them into practice.
In this answer, She doesnt make any grammatical mistakes and she shows that she can
use less common vocabulary, for example tricky instead of difficult. If she wants to be sure
of achieving an even higher band, she could try using more less common vocabulary. For
example, instead of repeating the word easy, she could say so something like putting them
into practice can be a daunting task.
Candidate: Well, I like to spend my free time outside the home. I walk in the mountains a lot
I enjoy the fresh air and the nice views.
Niki doesnt make any grammatical mistakes. However, she uses very common vocabulary.
Instead of saying walk in the mountains, she could use the more precise expression go hiking
in the mountains.
Candidate: Well, I spend much of my free time outdoors. I especially enjoy hiking in the
mountains and I live near the mountains which is really convenient. I love the fresh air
and the spectacular views.
She doesnt make any grammatical mistakes and uses less common vocabulary, for
example hiking instead of walking, spectacular instead of nice.
If she wants to be sure of getting an even higher band, she could try using an idiomatic
expression in her answer, for example I live just a stones throw away from instead of I
live near ...
24
WHAT IS THE IMPORTANCE OF COMPUTERS NOWADAYS?
Candidate: Computers are very important in our lives. Without computers we cannot do
many things. For example, we cannot find many jobs, we cannot communicate with
email, we cannot find information very easy.
In this answer, She generally communicates her ideas well, but the phrase we cannot find
many jobs is a little unclear. Perhaps she wanted to say we cannot find work so easily. She
also makes a small mistake -- she uses the adjective *easy* instead of the adverb easily.
In this answer, She develops her ideas clearly and doesnt make any grammatical mistakes.
She uses less common vocabulary, for example absolutely essential instead of very
important and the phrasal verb do without. She also does well to correct her pronunciation
of the work multi-task.
If She wants to be sure of achieving an even higher band, she could try using even more
precise and less common vocabulary such as absolutely indispensible instead of absolutely
essential. She could say how computers automate common work tasks or how there are so
many things that we take for granted which would be impossible without computers.
25
USING PREPARATION TIME (PART 2)
In part 2 of the IELTS speaking test, you may be asked to describe a cultural event, a place
you have been to, a person you know, a TV show you have watched, etc.
You have one minute to prepare, and you have to talk for 1-2 minutes. The examiner will
give you a pencil and some paper to make notes while you prepare. You should make notes
that you find useful in English or in your native language.
Most tasks contain two main parts: describing the topic, and explaining your feelings about
it. To do well, you have to include both in your answer.
Write down all the vocabulary related to the topic that you
can think of.
Just write down the keywords which you can talk about
(you dont have time to write full sentences).
26
BEGINNING YOUR ANSWER (PART 2)
When your preparation time has ended, you are ready to begin talking. It helps to have an
idea how to begin. If you are not sure how to begin, you can use one of the expressions
below.
Alternatively, you can begin your answer without using a fixed expression. Pay attention
to the grammatical structure used in the in first sentence of the cue card, for example:
Recall that if you are aiming for a high band, you need to show that you can paraphrase and
use synonyms effectively. If you are confident, try to paraphrase the cue card instruction:
27
TIME MANAGEMENT (PART 2)
For part 2 of the IELTS speaking test, there are four points that you need to talk about. There
are three short points (who, where, why, how long, what, etc.) and one longer part which
asks you to explain something. After you have completed the task, the examiner will ask you
a short follow-up question.
When you practise this task, try to set yourself a time limit for each part, for example:
20 seconds
20 seconds
20 seconds
1 minute
Have the first sentence ready when the examiner asks you to speak.
Try to say one or two sentences for each of the first three parts.
If you feel you are going to finish in less than one minute and you have
nothing else to say, try to use conversation fillers (see page 10).
If you have spoken for at least one minute and you feel that you
have nothing more to say and your fluency is getting worse, just stop
talking and give the cue card back to the examiner.
When the examiner asks you the follow-up question, answer with one
or two sentences.
28
DESCRIBING PEOPLE
In the IELTS Speaking Test part 2, it is very common that the questions on the card will be
about a person, for example a role model, a neighbour, a child that you know, a celebrity or a
friend. You may need to describe the persons appearance, personality, what the person
does, why you like or respect the person, etc.
If you are aiming for a high band, consider using adjectives from the table on the next page.
Hair (colour) black, dark brown, light brown, red, blond, dyed blond, fair, grey, ginger
Hair (type/state) short, long, medium-length, shoulder-length, straight, wavy, curly, bald,
untidy, spiky, thick, thin
Body thin, slim, fat, tall, big, short, straight, curvy, muscular, well-built
overweight, hairy
TIP
Make your descriptions more interesting by using qualifying adverbs such as a
bit, a little, slightly, quite, fairly, very, really, extremely. For example:
Practice ideas
1. Look at photos of your friends and family. Practise describing them using
the vocabulary above.
2. Next time you are walking down the street, describe the people you see in your head.
29
ADJECTIVES FOR DESCRIBING APPEARANCE (BAND 7-9)
Consider using any of the adjectives in the table below if you are aiming for a very high band.
However, be careful when using unfamiliar words in the exam. Use a good dictionary to
check their meaning and do a Google search to see examples of how these words are used
in practice.
Body slight, heavy set, burly, gangly, lanky, leggy, stocky, thickset
30
DESCRIBING PERSONALITY
In the table below you will find useful adjectives that you can use for describing a persons
personality. If you dont know any of the words, look them up in a dictionary. Use Google
to search for examples of how the words are used.
If you are aiming for a high band, consider using adjectives from the table on the next page.
TIP
Peoples moods and personality can change depending on the situation. Try
to make your descriptions more precise by using adverbs of frequency such
as usually, normally, sometimes, never, hardly ever, occasionally.
For example:
Practice ideas
1. Think of your friends and family. Practise describing their personalities using the
vocabulary above.
2. Next time you meet someone new, describe his/her personality in your head.
31
ADJECTIVES FOR DESCRIBING PERSONALITY (BAND 7-9)
Consider using any of the adjectives in the table below if you are aiming for a very high band.
However, be careful when using unfamiliar words in the exam. Use Google search to see
examples of how these words are used in practice or check with your teacher that you are
using them correctly.
Qualities Flaws
amiable clingy
courageous needy
courteous cowardly
compassionate devious
fearless dull
frank grumpy
larger-than-life hostile
industrious impulsive
resourceful indifferent
sensible nasty
charismatic timid
balanced vain
sincere self-conscious
jovial insecure
wise stuck-up
witty absent-minded
easy-going big-headed
level-headed hot-tempered
self-disciplined two-faced
thick-skinned self-centred
warm-hearted tight-fisted
TIP
If you are aiming for a very high band, consider using more complex qualifying
words and expressions, for example:
He is usually quite an amiable guy. But theres also a hostile side to him.
She seems a bit stuck-up. But once you get to know her, shes
really easy-going.
32
DESCRIBING OBJECTS
In the IELTS Speaking Test part 2, it is possible that the questions on the card will be about
an object, for example a present, a gadget, a photo, something you bought recently, an
important possession, etc. You may need to describe the appearance of the object as well
as its use and importance.
Examples of use
My iPhone is small, thin and shiny black. It weighs about 100 grammes.
My first mobile phone was the size of a brick. It was very thick and heavy.
My wallet is small and brown. Its rectangular and its made of leather.
I use it to
It can be used to
Its used for ing
It has lots of features like
I use it to chat with my friends. Its used for making phone calls.
It can be used to send emails. It has lots of features like video and an MP3 player.
33
DESCRIBING THE IMPORTANCE OF AN OBJECT
Study the expressions below. They will help you describe the importance of an object.
Examples of use
Examples of use
Its an essential part of my life. I keep my contacts there, my photos, I can make calls
with it. I simply couldnt live without it. (an iPhone)
Its very important to me because it brings back memories of my childhood. (a photo or toy)
Practice ideas
1. Think of some objects you own. Practise describing their appearance, use and
importance.
2. Look at some important photos. Practise describing why they are important to you.
34
DESCRIBING AN EVENT
In the IELTS Speaking Test part 2, it is possible that the questions on the card will be about
an event. You may need to describe the type of event, the people involved and the
activities that took place. There may also be a question about how you felt at the event or
why it was important to you.
TYPE OF EVENT
a birthday party
a wedding
a concert
a sports event
a festival
a class reunion
a stag party (UK) / bachelor party (US)
a hen night (UK) / bachelorette party (US)
35
Look at the cue card and the sample answers below.
SAMPLE ANSWER
Im going to describe my friend's birthday party, last month. We went for a meal in an
Indian restaurant and then to different places.
There were about 10 of us, some close friends, old friends and work colleagues.
We started the evening at the restaurant. We ate a delicious meal and then we went to fancy
shop in my town. We were dressed like kids. It is a party tradition in my country to wear a
costume.
How did I feel? Well, it was a lot of fun. Everybody enjoyed themselves very much. And it
was great to meet old friends who I hadnt seen since my childhood. It was really
interesting to find out about what they were doing in their lives. What else? I cant talk
about everything we did, but lets just say that everybody had a great time.
Im going to describe my friend's birthday party, last month. We went for a meal in an
Italian restaurant and then to different shops.
There were about 10 of us -- some close friends, old friends and work colleagues, most of
them were people I've known since university.
We started the evening at the restaurant. We ate a delicious meal and then we went out to
some shops in my town. We were all dressed up like superheroes. It is a party tradition in
my country to wear a costume.
How did I feel? Hmmmwell, it was a lot of fun. And it was great to catch up with old
friends and make some new ones. I cant reveal everything we did because it got a little
crazy, but lets just say that everybody enjoyed themselves very much.
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DESCRIBING PLACES
In the IELTS Speaking Test part 2, it is possible that the questions on the card will be about
a place. You may need to talk about the type of place it is, its location, its history, its purpose
and the type of activities that happen there. There may also be a question about how you
feel about the place. Learn the adjectives and expressions on this page.
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Look at the cue card and the sample answer below.
SAMPLE ANSWER
OK, so what would be my ideal home? Well I think it would have to be a big flat, about 100
square metres. It would have five rooms a bedroom, a kitchen, a bathroom, a living room
and two spare rooms. Everything should be modern modern furniture, a flat-screen TV
and a gaming PC. There should be plenty of natural light.
It should be located in the centre of my city, near the market square in the old town.
But on a quiet street.
I would like to live there for several reasons. Firstly, its big and I like lots of space. Secondly,
I enjoy entertaining guests and the flat has everything I need modern appliances, space and
nice furniture. Also, I really like cooking, so a big kitchen is very important to me. I would also
like to live there because its well-located. It would be nice to live in the centre because I often
go there with my friends to eat out, visit some bars, go for a walk, and so on. I like meeting new
people and the centre of my town is very crowded, which is perfect for me.
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BUYING TIME
In part 3 of the IELTS speaking test, you will be asked a question related to the topic of part
2, and you might need more time to think than you did in part 1. Simple conversation fillers
(see page 10) might not be enough to buy yourself the time that you need before
answering the question. Here are some more effective techniques.
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ASK FOR TIME
Another way to give yourself extra time to think about your response is simply to ask for time.
This is a technique that everybody uses in normal conversation. Study these examples:
Okay, thats a difficult question. Can you give me a moment to think about it?
If you are aiming for a very high band, you can consider using the following expressions.
Okay, thats a tricky question. I just need a moment to ponder over it.
Hmm.I suppose that train travel is the most common form of transport.
Well, umm, basically I think that sport can help us to live a much healthier lifestyle.
COMBINE TECHNIQUES
In order to buy yourself the maximum time that you need, consider all three approaches:
Candidate: Hmm.so you would like to know the different types of food that people eat in
my country. Hmminteresting question. Can I think about it for a moment?
Well, I guess traditional Bangladeshi cuisine is still very popular.
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SPEAKING TOPICS
You do not need a high level of general knowledge to achieve a successful result in your
IELTS speaking test. If you can communicate your ideas (or lack of ideas) fluently and
coherently, you will do well. However, it will help you to practise talking at length about a
variety of topics. Here are some possible part 3 questions that you can practise.
Do you think eating habits will change in Can sports be dangerous? How?
the future? How?
What types of sports do you think are better,
team sports or individual sports?
SHOPPING
Do you enjoy shopping?
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TELEVISION TRAVEL
How popular is watching television in What are the benefits of travelling?
your country?
Do people travel much in your country?
What types of television programme Which destinations are popular?
are popular in your country?
Has the travel industry changed in your
Why do you think people like country in recent years?
watching television?
Which countries would you like to visit in
What are the dangers of watching the future? Why?
television?
How can the type of school you go to affect your How safe is your countrys transport
career success? system?
Do you prefer to live in the city What are some of the causes of pollution?
or the countryside? Why?
What can people or governments do to
What are the problems living minimize pollution?
in big cities?
Do you think problems with pollution will
What do you think cities will be improve in the future?
like in 50 years time?
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GRAMMAR FOR PART 3
In part 3 of the IELTS speaking test, you need to think about the grammar that you are going to
use in your answer. Pay attention to the type of question that the examiner asks you.
example: Has transport changed much in your country over the last few decades?
If you get such a question, you need to think carefully about the tenses that you are going
to use in your answer.
If you want to talk about a current trend, use the present continuous (verb be + -ing):
If you want to say how a situation has changed over time up to the present moment, use the
present perfect (have/has + past participle):
If you want to talk about something that people did regularly in the past, but not today, use
used to/didnt use to + infinitive:
example: Which countries would you like to visit in the future? Why?
How would you spend your time if you didnt have to work?
If you get such a question, you need to think about the structure you are going to use.
If you talk about an imaginary situation in the present or future, use would + infinitive:
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If you want to talk about an imaginary situation with if., use a second conditional
structure. We form the second conditional in the following way:
You should try to use appropriate connecting words and comparative structures in
your answer.
If you want to introduce a contrast, use words and phrases like however, on the other
hand or though:
Shopping online is very convenient. You can do it from the comfort of your home. However,
in my opinion it is not a good way to shop for things like clothes.
If you want to compare two different things, use while or whereas. For example:
I prefer to live in the city than in the countryside. In the city you have more shops and places
of entertainment, whereas in the countryside there isnt much to do.
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Things to remember
3) With some two-syllable adjectives, you can use -er/-est or more/most, for example:
simple clever gentle friendly quiet narrow
The plane is the fastest option. He is one of the most interesting people I know.
6) To say that one thing is less than another thing, you can also say not as as:
7) If you want to say that two things are the same, you can say as as:
8) If you want to say that two things are same, you can also say the same as:
9) If you want to say that two things are similar, you can say similar to:
10) If you want to say that two things are different, you can say different than/to/from:
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GIVING OPINIONS
In the IELTS speaking test, the examiner will ask you for your opinions on particular topics.
You may need to express opinions in part 1, part 2 or part 3 of the test. Therefore, it is a
good idea to learn some special phrases that you can use in your responses.
In my opinion, good exercise and a healthy diet are important for a long life.
I believe that many jobs are more suited to men.
Personally, I think that many jobs are still more suited to men.
I feel that the gap between rich and poor is growing.
I find Indian food a bit too spicy.
If you want to give an opinion that something is not true with I think, I feel,
I believe, etc. you say I dont feel, I dont believe, etc. For example:
I dont believe that there is enough equality between men and women.
I dont feel that the gap between rich and poor is getting smaller.
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CONNECTING IDEAS
In parts 2 and 3 of the IELTS speaking test, you will need to speak at length about a
particular issue. In order to get a high band, it is important to develop your ideas using
appropriate connecting words and phrases. Study how the connecting words/phrases in
bold are used in the answer below.
Well, I think on the whole Id prefer to live in a big city. Firstly, there are more job
opportunities. On top of that, the standard of living is higher and the infrastructure is more
developed. Also, there are more places to go shopping. In short, there are lots of
advantages.
On the other hand, I think there are several important drawbacks. First of all, big cities
tend to be more polluted because of all the cars. Secondly, there is more noise. Regarding
transport, big cities can be very stressful. For example, my home city Dhaka has a very
crowded transport system. In fact, its one of the most stressful transport systems in the
world.
Summarizing In short,
The next page presents some more words and expressions that you can use to develop
an argument.
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WELL
Use well to introduce a remark or give yourself time to think.
Who is my favourite family member? Well, I need to think about that one.
SO / THEREFORE
Use so or therefore to introduce a logical result. So is more informal than therefore.
BASICALLY
Use basically to introduce the most important aspect of something. It is very common in
spoken English (dont use it in formal writing) and often used as a conversation filler
(see page 10).
Basically, there are three reasons why Id like to live in a big city.
HOWEVER / YET
Use however or yet to make a contrast.
I agree with that opinion. However, I dont know if it will be true in the future.
I agree with that opinion. Yet I dont know if it will be true in the future.
THOUGH
Though is used to make a contrast. It normally goes at the end of the sentence.
Living in a big city has lots of advantages. Id still prefer to live in a small town, though.
IN OTHER WORDS
Use in other words to simplify or summarize what you just said before.
In big cities, there are more offices and shops. In other words, there is more work.
IF WERE TALKING
Use If were talking to introduce a new topic.
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AS FAR AS IS CONCERNED
We use as far as something is concerned when we introduce a new topic. It is a little
more formal that If were talking
As far as shopping is concerned, it is much better to live in a big city than a small town.
EVENTUALLY
Use eventually to say what happens after a long time and/or many problems. The
meaning is similar to in the end.
We drove for two hours trying to find the hotel. Eventually, we gave up and decided to stay
at a hostel.
The hotel was awful. On top of that, the weather was cold and wet.
The hotel was awful. Whats more, the weather was cold and wet.
These connectors are more informal than in addition, furthermore and moreover, so
dont use them in formal writing.
ANYWAY / ANYHOW
Use anyway or anyhow to confirm or support a point or idea just mentioned in
a conversation.
When I was in Italy, I didnt have time to go for a pizza. Anyway, I dont really like pizza.
You can also use anyway or anyhow to return to something you were talking about
before the subject was changed.
ACTUALLY
Use actually to give an unexpected or surprising response.
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IN FACT
Use in fact to modify a previous statement, for example if you said something that is slightly
inaccurate and you want to be more precise.
You can also use actually: I used to get up at 7am. Actually, it was around 6.30.
OVERALL
Use overall to make a final concluding statement.
You can also use: all in all, on the whole, all things considered.
Big cities have more developed public transport. For instance, in my city there are
trams, metro systems, buses and trains.
ALTERNATIVELY
You can use alternatively to provide an alternative idea.
In my town, you can get to the city centre by tram. Alternatively, you can take the bus.
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GIVING EXAMPLES
In parts 2 and 3 of the IELTS speaking test, and for some questions in part 1, you can extend
your answers and make them more interesting by giving personal examples to support your
points. Try to use real examples and stories about yourself where possible. Look the
examples below and study how the expressions in bold are used to introduce the examples.
Note: tighten your belt is an idiom which means spend less money.
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