IELTS Speaking Practice Test 1

IELTS Speaking Test 1

Sample test 1

The examiner begins the test by asking the candidate the following questions:

•   May I know your name?
•   How can I address you? 
•   May I have a look at your ID, please?

PART 1: HOUSES/APARTMENTS

1.   Tell me about the kind of accommodation you live in.
2.   Who do you live with?
3.   How long have you lived there?
4.   What’s your favorite room in your home?
5.   What sort of accommodation would you most like to live in?
6.   Why do you think some people invest a huge amount of money in buying houses?

PART 2: CUE CARD 

Describe an interesting speech or talk you heard recently.

You should say:

1.   Who the speaker was
2.   When you heard him/her or talked with him/her
3.   What the speech/conversation was about
4.   Why it was interesting to you

PART 3: FOLLOW-UP QUESTIONS 

1.   Why do people feel nervous when they are giving a speech to others?
2.   How can people improve their public speaking skills?
3.   Can you suggest any methods that would help reduce nervousness?
4.   Is it good for people to visit schools and talk to children about different things?
5.   What type of person is best suited to give a talk to a group of students?
6.   Is it hard to strike up a conversation with a stranger?

SAMPLE  ANSWERS [High Band score]

PART 1 

1.   I live in a fairly big apartment with my family. The place has four bedrooms, a guest room, and a huge dining area, and it is on the fourth story. It's a multi-story building with a welcoming neighborhood around. Also, the building is close to the town center, and our unit has a nice view. 
2.   I reside with my family. There are 4 of us, and every member has a separate room, which is much more comfortable as we get older and need more privacy for ourselves. I believe that even though it is large enough for us, our home is still cozytown and pleasant to me.
3.   My family had to relocate frequently when I was growing up, but I've now lived in the most recent home for almost ten years. I believe that this apartment has so far outperformed the older homes. We all have private spaces of our own, but there is also a large dining area where we can spend the entire evening together watching TV or eating.
4.   Without a doubt, my bedroom is my favourite space in the house. I spend most of my time in my comfort zone. The ceiling is painted white and has lovely lights, while its walls are painted in salmon pink color. Also, my room has everything I need, including an air conditioner, a big TV, a cabinet, a comfy bed, and a recliner. It also has a bathroom right next to it.
5.   I must say, I would rather live in a house than an apartment. However, purchasing or renting a residence in the city center is almost unfeasible due to rising housing and accommodation needs. We, therefore, feel content with our place for the time being. But given the option, I would move to a town and buy a sizable home with a lovely lawn in front of it.
6.   People purchase real estate for a variety of reasons. The most crucial one, in my opinion, is privacy. Since you are the owner, you will have far more autonomy and freedom to make any improvements you like. Additionally, it would foster a sense of ownership. Your home, no matter how big or tiny, is your property.

PART 2  

In my spare time, I enjoy listening to various speeches and podcasts because they are inspiring and informative. To be specific Ted talks are a great way to improve your general knowledge on several topics. They cover a lot of subjects and are surely a constructive form of entertainment.  

Just recently, I was listening to a speech, delivered by Tim Urban, a very popular writer and public speaker. It was titled “Inside the Mind of a Procrastinator”. I am not surprised that I could instantly relate to it, just by reading the title. He starts his talk by firmly establishing himself as a procrastinator, Which I think was pretty hilarious. He mentions that although procrastination doesn't make any sense, he has never been able to shake his habit of waiting until the last minute to get things done.

He talked about an incident that took place during his college days when he had to submit a research paper.  He mentioned the fact that other people normally tried to spread out their work over the multiple weeks or days that were available before the deadline. He himself took a 'procrastinating' approach and undertook the task of finishing the workload in a single day. He then explains how he started writing about the issue of procrastination.

In this insightful talk, he wanted to explain what goes on in the heads of procrastinators. Through various stories and instances from his own life, he managed to keep it light-hearted and yet give out such a powerful message. He concluded his talk with a compelling visual, which represented the fact that we only have limited time in this world and that is our final deadline.

I think this was one of the most inspiring talks I have ever heard. I remember sending it to all of my friends and family because I knew a lot of people would relate to it.

PART 3 

1.   I think one of the biggest hurdles for everyone has always been public speaking, especially for those who haven't had much practice. Delivering a thorough yet interesting speech to a group of strangers needs a few things, just like any other interpersonal skill. In my opinion, the two main causes of failure are the topic itself and the dread of the audience's response. With the pressure to make every aspect perfect and the fact that people are judging animals who can cast aspersions on nearly everything, presenters experience some difficulties. Additionally, if a speaker chooses to discuss a subject that is new to him or too complex for the audience, it could not be as well-received as the subject he is more knowledgeable about. 
2.   Since information is now widely accessible and spread globally thanks to the Internet, anyone may offer advice on any topic, including public speaking. As long as people are willing, there are many ways to learn and use such skills, like signing up for an online course or taking part in forums where people with similar interests come together and exchange experiences. This is quite effective, flexible, and most importantly, free of charge. Speak with some professionals in public speaking at some conferences or seminars if you want something more formal and scholarly. They will provide you with more insights and tips to begin with. Last but not least, practice makes perfect.
3.   We will all undoubtedly feel anxious at least once during our lifetimes. Before a crucial presentation or job interview, before meeting your future in-laws for the first time, and so forth. Anxiety may be a positive indicator because it demonstrates our concern. However, you should learn to regulate your emotions in order to perform better at such momentous occasions. Take a big breath first. Without easy breathing, you cannot perform at your best. Second, resist the need to try to prevent anxiety. You won't have to keep telling yourself to ignore it if you accept it as any other emotion. Finally, talk to yourself positively. Remind yourself to stay positive and that you are here for a reason.
4.   I believe it would be a beneficial experience for youngsters to hear personal accounts from their forebears who have had ups and downs in order to learn vital lessons and recommendations. Many schools today have already started inviting speakers to the classroom, who may be graduates or powerful community members. A child's existence is like a blank piece of paper that each person writes on. Therefore, they will grow better the sooner we plant a good seed and encourage them.
5.   As long as the speakers' experiences and words are pertinent and meaningful, I don't think any special skills are required to give kids a speech that is very motivational and inspiring. Therefore, those living adventurous lives have the potential to catch students' attention and cause them to reevaluate their objectives and purposes. And by this, I mean a person who has succeeded in his job despite facing challenges and going through similar situations. I think that a person cannot comprehend their inner ability to overcome obstacles and genuinely enjoy their accomplishment if they have never experienced failures and disappointments, which is something kids should consider while they are still in school.
6.   Some people can strike up a conversation with anyone; even complete strangers. But many others find it difficult to talk to a stranger. It is for me, despite what other people may think. I would take a very long time to approach someone unless I had a specific question I wanted to ask. I should truly conquer this phobia of mine.