220 IELTS SPEAKING TOPICS With Practical Tips & Useful Expressions220 IELTS Speaking Topies Taraneh Sadeghian Mabkdich AzaminejadACKNOWLEDGEMENTS The authors would like to acknowledge the following people who made publication of this book possible: First and foremost, we would like to express our deepest gratitude to our families whose support, patience, and words of encouragement carry us forth. Our special thanks would also go to Mrs. Fereshteh Ghorbani , Head of Language Dept. at Academic Center of Education, Culture & Research (ACECR), who kindly accepted to edit the first draft of the book and honored us with her copious remarks and suggestions. We would also like to express our gratitude to Mr. A. Yusefzadeh, Deputy for Education at Language Center, ACECR, Dr. M.Khalaji, and Mr. M. Jesmani, our colleagues whose insightful comments and sincere cooperation enabled us to accomplish our task. We are also profoundly indebted to Ms. Ameneh Barzgar who made the recording of the Audio CD possible. Also we would like to appreciate Mrs. Kathy Sullivan for her invaluable comments on the recordings. Our heartfelt thanks and appreciation must go to Ms. Rezvan Behtouie for designing the book cover.220 IELTS Speaking Topics TABLE OF CONTENTS Acknowledgements. Table of Contents. Introduction.. IELTS Speaking Test (Chapter 1)... Format of the Test. How Speaking Is Assessed...... Description of Band Scores... IELTS Speaking Tips...... How to Improve Your Speaking... Most Common Connecting Words... Useful Expressions........... IELTS Speaking Part I (Chapter 2). Animal, Bicycle, Book Color, Computer Clothing, City. Dance, Dream, Food Friend, Family, Favorite Festival, Film, Job Health, Hobby Hometown. Museum, Music, News, Photograph, School. Sea, Sport. Televis n, Travel Transportation, Weather, Wedding IELTS Speaking Part IL dent, Advertisement. Ambition, Animal, Apartment. Book. pes pi TIT 17 19 37 38 39 39220 IELTS Speaking Topics Building. 40 Choice, Childhood. 141 City. 42 Competition... Dream, Day, Event... Environment, Family. Favorites... Festival. Food.. Free times. Game. Hazard, Health...... Holiday. History, Job...... Letter . Movie Music. Money Magazine, Museum Natural Scenery. Object hc ir Party, Person (famous, influential) Personal Possession Place...... Photograph, School. Shopping, Skill, Sports. 82 Stress, Travel. 83 ‘Transportation 86 Writing, Website... spoil seeerdinddnisdngeeneDE IELTS Speaking Part II1..... 88 Animal, Advertisement. stare neta ibid pe BS) Apartment, Book ce Hive tilatashis teed st BS220 IELTS Speaking Topics Building, Choice, City Competition, Computer.... Communication, Dream. Environment, Event... Family, Festival. Food... Free times. Friend. 195 Gift. 96 Hazard, Health. 96 History, Influential (Person) 97 Job... Luck, Magazine. Movie, Money... Music, Museum. Natural Scenery, Object. Party, Person... Personal Possession... Photograph, School... Shopping. Skill, Sport. Travel Transportation.. 109 Real Tests Part I (Chapter 3)..... Book, Building, Clothes 109 Daily Routine, Education. 110 Family, Festival. Siar d LO. Friend, Food, Games........... 111 Health, Hometown. , : i 112 Home, Hobby... eae i apahD Internet, Job, Movie. : 413 Music, News... i 114 Shopping, Sports 114220 IELTS Speaking Topics Television, Transportation... Weather, Real Test (Part II & III). Advertisement, Advice... Age, Animal.... Article, Book... Child, Change... Collect, Dance Decision, Evening. Equipment, Environment. Excited, Exercis: Favorite. Film, Flower.... Free times, Friend. Game, Happy event. Historical Place/figure.... History, Hobby... Holiday, Hotel... Household chore, Natural Feature... Invention, Indoor activity... Job, Language Letter, LIDParYescssscnsnctssnsenense Magazine, Musical instrument 36 Museum, Neighbor. Newspaper, News. Old person... Party, Pet. Photograph, Present. 141 Project, Restaurant. ue 142 Season, SChOOl...... tbo onaeutapestaltue eres EAS Shopping Center, Skill : i 144 Sports activity, Success. Travel, Typlcal Mayen. sntinttendersinngeienionintntasitiherpsnt1A6,220 IELTS Speaking Topics Toy, Vehicles. etireccntinactess eran oer Weather. 148 LAST Words. 149 DOs and DON'Ts List... +149 Sample Scripts. Sample Test 1. Sample Test 2.. Sample Test 3.. Sample Test 4........ Sample Test 5. Sample Test 6.... Sample Test 7........0. Sample Test 8..... Sample Test 9..... Sample Test 10. References.Introduction The present book is compiled to help IELTS candidates have easy access to ample IELTS Speaking samples, collected from various IELTS preparation course books. It contains 220 IELTS Speaking Topics that are arranged alphabetically to enable candidates to find the topics of their interest very quickly and easily. This book also aims to build up the candidates speaking skill as well as their confidence by exposing them to useful expressions, and suggested tips. It has an audio CD which contains 10 sample tests. The main purpose of the audio CD is to give the candidates enough confidence to organize their mind and answer the questions especially in part 2 & 3, when they are given intangible and abstract topics. The book consists of three chapters. Chapter 1 starts with the format of the IELTS speaking module, scoring of the test, some suggested tips, and ends with the useful expressions. Chapter 2 contains compiled topics which are sorted alphabetically and divided into three parts: part 1, part 2 and part 3 of the IELTS speaking test. The reference of each topic card is written right below the box and the reference of the round-up questions are brought in front of the questions. For the questions which lack reference and page number, the reference is already given in bolded form in front of the previous questions. In Chapter 3, the real test topic samples are sorted alphabetically for the easy use. At the end of the book, there is a check list of Dos & Don'ts which i strongly recommended. III220 IELTS Speaking Topics Vv Chapter 1 IELTS SPEAKING TEST terview which assesses how well a candidate can The speaking test of IELTS is an ‘communicate in spoken English. It is a general speaking skill and is broadly the same for all candidates. In the Speaking Module, each candidate has a face-to-face interview with an examiner. The interview consists of three parts and takes between 11-14 minutes. The examiner records the interview for remarking, if necessa FORMAT OF THE TEST Part 1: Introduction & Interview In this part, the examiner will ask you some general questions about yourself such as your home, family, education, job, interests/hobbies, and a range of similar topic areas. The questions on familiar topies will give you chance to convey a lot of information about yours fand your life. This part lasts between 4-5 minutes. Part 2: Individual Long Turn In this part, you will be given a task card (cue card) and asked to talk on a particular topic for about 2 minutes. You have one minute to organize your mind and prepare yourself before speaking at length, for 1-2 minutes. This part will last between 3-4 minutes. The examiner then asks one or two rounding-off questions. For example: Describe a TV program that you watch or know about You should say - When it is on and which channel it is on ~ What kind of program it is What kind of people watch it And say if you think that program is popular in other countries or not, and whyVv 220 IELTS Speaking Topics Part 3: Two-way Discussion In this part, the examiner and candidate engage in a discussion of more abstract issues and concepts which are thematically linked to the topic prompt in Part 2.The discussion lasts between 4-5 minutes. In this part, the candidate's ability to justify opinions, analyze, discuss, and speculate about the issues will be assessed. The follow-up questions related to the above topics could be: - Why do you think some countries produce TV programs for another country? = What factors do you think TV program producers consider for preparing a certain program? However, recently it is understood that the above format is not fully observed by the examiners. The reason might be that the examiner can not be sure of the candidate's ability and level of proficiency from only part 1. Moreover, most of the candidates are fully prepared for this part and sometimes they memorize certain samples. ‘Therefore, examiners may ask candidates their names, candidate numbers, and directly start with Part 2. So, as preparing yourself for some general questions, such as the reason for taking IELTS test, your country, your town, your past studies, and your plans for future; be mentally prepared to skip this part if necessary.220 IELTS Speaking Topics Vv How Speaking Is Assessed The speaking proficiency is evaluated on the following criteria: = Fluency and Coherence: Express your ideas and opinions coherently and clearly. without long pauses and hesitations. = Lexical Resource: Use correct expressions and wide range of vocabulary. = Grammar & Accuracy: Use wide range of structures with the minimum number of mistakes. * Pronunciation: Make sure your conversation is understood. The Result is translated into a score on the IELTS nine-band scale. There is no pass mark for the IELTS exam. Different universities and colleges will have their own IELTS score requirements. Band 9- Expert User The candidate has fully operational command of the language and is fluent with a complete und Band 8-Very Good User tanding of English. The candidate is a good user’ of English with only occasional mistakes with accuracy . but his overall command of English is excellent and he ean handle | and appropriaten complex detailed arguments well Band 7-Good User The candidate is a ‘good user’ of English. He can use English well in most situations but oc sionally make mistakes with accuracy and appropriateness of language and has isunderstandings in some situations. Band 6-Competent User "The candidate has ellective command of language despite some inaccuracies and misunderstandings. He can use and understand fairly complex language, particularly in familiar situations. Band 5-Modest User “Of language, “He has some command of English and can The candidate is a ‘modest us cope with the overall meaning in most situations, though he is likely to make some mistakes. He ible to handle basie communication in his won field.V 220 IELTS Speaking Topics Band 4-Limited User The candidate is a “limited user” of language. He has a basic ability to use English in familiar situations, He may have frequent problems with understanding and expression and is unable to use complex language. Band 3-Extremely Limited User ‘The candidate is an “extremely limited user” — this means that he can express and understand only general meaning in very familiar situations. He will have frequent breakdowns in communication, Band 2-Intermittent User The candidate is an “intermittent user’ — this means that no real communication is possible except for expressing the most basic information using isolated words or short | basic sentences in familiar situations. He will have a lot of difficulty understanding spoken and written English Band 1-Non-User The candidate i ai the lowest level and means he is a ‘non-user’ — this means he does not | | have the ability to use English except for a few isolated words. | | Band 0-Did not attempt the test The candidate has no asses Te information and productio From 1 July, 2007, a small but important change has been made in IELTS Band Scores. Scores for each part of the test will be reported on the scale from 1 to 9, but now the Writing & Speaking modules will be reported in whole or halfbands in the same way as the Reading and Listening modules, There will be two main benefits 10 the new arrangements: a) Recognized Organizations will be able to meet their requirements for admission, and recruitment more precisely, based on more detailed information about the test-taker's performance. bb) Test takers will get a report that gives them more information on their strengths and weaknesses.220 IELTS Speaking To Description of Band Scores You belong to Band 0 if you do not attend the interview. You belong to Band 1 if you can not communicate in Engl any way. You belong Band 2 if you . Pause lengthily before most words: = Have little communication ability = Produce isolated words or memorized sentences = Ifyou can not produce basic sentence forms . Your speech is unintelligible You belong to Band 3 if you . Speak with long pauses = Haye limited ability to link simple sentences, = Give only simple response and unable to convey basic message = Use simple vocabulary to express personal information * Have insufficient vocabulary for less familiar topics * Make numerous errors You belong to Band 4 if you = Can not respond without noticeable pause and may speak slowly, with frequent repetition and self-correction d some Link basic sentences but with repetitious use of simple connecti breakdowns in sentences . Produce ba ic sentence forms and some correct simple sentences but subordit structures are rare Use limited range of pronunciation features * Have frequent mispronuneiations You belong to Band 5 if you . Keep sentences con 12 slowly (without pauses) (See item 3, tips for part3) ,use repetition, and correct yourself220 IELTS Speaking Topics Can use simple sentences easily, but complex sentences are difficult for you Can not say the same thing in a different way (rephrase) or use a synonym for a word Use grammatically correct simple sentences most of the time. It is rare that you use more complex sentences and when you do, you make grammatical errors or it is difficult to understand what you're saying. You belong to Band 6 if you Can speak for some time keeping the right speed (like in your first language), with litle difficulties when you repeat words, correct yourself or get lost in words and stop making mistakes. Use some connecting words, even if it is not always appropriate Can cuss topies (familiar or not) for a long time, using wide range of vocabulary and making yourself clear Successfully rephrase and use synonyms Mix simple and complex sentences when you ask, but in making complex one: make mistake. Mistakes are mostly grammatical and examiner can still understand you.(See Item 9, Tips for part 3) You belong to Band 7 if you Have no problem speaking for some time keeping the right speed (like your first language); your speech is smooth and easy to understand; it is rare that you pause and look for a word to say, repeat or correct yourself, Can discuss any topic using a lot of smart words, use English expressions correctly. Use complex sentences without a lot of grammatical mistakes. There are more correct sentenees in your speech than incorrect. You belong to Band 8 if'you Speak fluently with only occasional repetition or self-correction Develop topic coherently and appropriately Use a wide range of vocabularies Can use paraphrases effectively as required Use a wide range of structures Use a wide range of pronunciation features Can produce majority of error-free sentences with only occasional mistakes220 IELTS Speaking Topics You belong to Band 9 if you Speak fluent with only rare repetition or self correction Develop topic fully and appropriately Use vocabulary with full flexibility and precision all topics Use a full range of structures naturally and appropriately Produce consistently accurate structures apart from "slips"- characteristic of native speaker speech Use a full range of pronunciation features with precision and subtlety Are effortless to understandVv 220 IELTS Speaking Topics TETLS SPEAKING TIPS. Before the Interview 1- Be present at the venue at least 30 min. before the interview. 2- Before going into the interview room, take a DEEP breath! 3- Dress appropriately: neither too casual nor too formal. 4- Greet the exau Sir/Madam or "Good Afternoon’. ier, Say "Good Mor 5- Be polite, friendly, and relaxed. During the Int TIPS for Part 1 1. Make eye contact with the examiner. Although theoretically you can speak great English with your head down, the fact is you may not seem as confident, Although there is no mark for confidence, you need to present yourself in as posi ive way as possible. 2. Make sure you understand the examiner and are able to communicate without grammar mistakes. 3. Consider this part of the test as meeting someone for the first time and telling him about yourself, Try to be relaxed and keep conversation going. 4. Speak clearly and don't worry about your accent, Everyone has an accent when they speak English. The important point is that you enunciate the best you can so the examiner can understand you. Rehearse in advance to overcome any obvious problems. Jf you make a mistake, don’t worry, just correct yourself and keep going 5. If the examiner asked you questions about your home town, neighborhood. or city: use good words about your home town, etc. to impress the examiner. Do use negative expressions to talk about your country or city. If'you express all bad things always when you220 IELTS Speaking Topics Vv are talking, the examiner won't be impressed by your words unless you are asked to explain the problems. Tips for Part 2 1. In part 2, you have one minute to think about the topic and organize your mind. The ise speaking for two examiner will give you a piece of paper and a pencil to take notes be minutes without stopping is not easy. The biggest mistake students make is not to take notes. Candidates who do not take notes often say, "Uh, I think may be, um,... well. Ur..., It seems to me, "Um and Uh" are the sign of hesitations. It means you are not sure of what to say or you do not have any ideas to express. In both with long, ses, You are most likely to lose scores pauses and hesitations. Therefore, use notes to help you organize your mind and ideas, remember what to say and how to say " method. 2. In this part, use P.R {with "P"- make one sentence about your main Point! topic. Then give two or three sentences to provide "R", a Reason. You need to support your ideas, Next give "E", an Example. Describe the example using two or three sentences. F . your main points, but use a different sentence. If you ‘ish by repeating have extra time, give a second example. Do not memorize answers to prepare for the test. The interviewer has enough experience to recognize that you are not speaking naturally and will change the subject or give you a lower score. 4, Avoid short, "yes" , "no" answers. 5. Explain names or words which are in another language. For example, if you are asked to speak about a festival, which involves using words in your language, say the words clearly and give the meaning so the examiner can follow your expressions. 6. Try o make good sentences to make good impression. For example, in part 1, if you give easy answers, the examiner can not be sure of your level whether you are Band 4 or may be Band 5. But if you give good and specific answers with short explanations, the examiner will think you could be Band 6 or even Band 7Vv 220 IELTS Speaking Topics 7. Keep a steady pace. Do not speak too fast or too slow. 8. Do not take so much time, Two sentences for each answer are usually enough. IF'you have a long time introduction, the examiner may think you do not know how to answer the questions. 9, Remember you do not need to present true ideas or facts. Some ti you do not have any personal idea or example on a certain topic to say. Avoid words such as: Thave no idea. I don't know what to say, etc. Try to make up your own story related to the topic and explain the connection. For example, if you are asked to talk about a foreign country you have been to, but in fact you have never visited a foreign country before, try to make your own story. 10, Do not worry about the time. Try to organize your conversation for about 2 minutes but the examiner will stop you when time is up. 11, Record yourself. Play the recordings back to see how easy you are to understand and how you could improve, You should practice one or two topics every day before your e: 12, Avoid using slang or very informal language. 13, Use easy words and expressions if you are not very confident 14, Remember to practice. Use a wateh: give yourself one minute to take notes on a topic, and then two minutes to make four or five sentences to express your ideas on the topic, Make sure to provide answers to all of the questions in Part 2. Tips for Part 1. In part 3, which seems to be the most difficult part of speaking test, when the examiner says "Now, I would like to ask you some more questions related to part 2, you know that Part 3 is starti Be ready! 2. In Part IH, you could be asked to talk about chan: es either in your country or in Intemational trends, Remember in this part, you need to justify and support what you say by exa mples, exphanatic story, and statistics. about the recent chai ample 1: Tell n aduation in your country ges in university220 IELTS Speaking Topics W Answer: Well, not only in my country but also around the world, there is a remarkable increase in the number of university graduates. | can't speak for the world, but in my country this is partly due to subsidized study costs. Only 10-15 years ago, the option of going to university was open to those who were wealthy enough, but now people from. all backgrounds have an equal opportunity to follow their education. | think, this is definitely a step in the right direction, although there are still potential studemts who don’t have the means. Comment: As you see, the first sentence includes the candidate's main idea and the following sentences are supporting the main idea. Example 2: Do you prefer to watch a movie on TV or in the cinema? Why? Answer: Actually, I much prefer to go to cinema because the sereen is bigger than any TV, and the sound is really good. For example, { thought the film "Titanic" was great because the music was romantic, and it just wouldn't have been the same if it was played at home on a normal television. 3. Try to use "FILLERS" instead of pausing and hesitating. Fillers are set of the words which can give you the opportunity of filling the gaps you face during speaking such as: I mean......; You see....; Well, let me see.....: If you see what I mean,..; Let's get this into perspective,....; You know,....; Well,......; Uh,. 4, Before you start speaking. think of different tenses. You must use past and present tenses to compare two aspects of a topic, For example, if you are asked: "How has the method of teaching changed in recent years’ You should say: Well, in the past teacher used to be the only speaker in the class, whereas nowadays, students are also involved in teaching and learning proc 5. Use the General-Specific technique. As soon as you hear the question, give a general opinion about the topic. Then give a specific reason or example in the next sentence or wo, Among other things in part 3, you will be asked to speculate about the future, give opinions, suggest a solution to a problem, or describe a process or a procedure, Try to come up with a complete answer. For example, if you are asked how you would solve traffic problems world wide, don’t just talk about buying more buses; consider where the money forVv 220 IELTS Speaking Topics the buses would come from, explain how you would raise the money for the buses and persuade people how to use them. This certainly impresses the examiner. 6. You can not ask questions on part! and Part 2, but you ean ask questions on Part 3 if you do not understand the question or you do not know the meaning of a word. For example, the interviewer says. "Do you like traveling on the tube?" You can say that you don’t understand: -I'm sorry. I don’t understand. 'm sorry, I don’t follow.” - [haven't come across that word / expression before." Could you explain what you mean? If you just didn't understand what the interviewer has id, ask him to repeat the question: "Sorry, I didn’t catch that, Could you say that again? "Excuse me. Could you repeat that? Ifyou are looking for clarification, ask the interviewer to confirm what you think: "Do you mean..." "When you say... are ou asking/ do you mean....... Hopefully these simple questions will get the interview back on track and you ean also impress the interviewer with your conversation skills, 7. Ifyou are asked a question about a subj for which you have no idea to express, use the following expressions to give yourself time to think more or remember what to say = Well, it's difficutt to say. but. * [don't have any idea, but I suppose, = Lam no expert to comment, but. * Actually, that’s not something l've really thought about, but + Minm... Lam not really sure, but = [dot know much about that, but. = That's an interesting point and 1 think I would have to say that % I'm not exactly sure what you mean, but. © That’s a rather difficult question, but perhaps... f you still can not think of anything to say after a few seconds, you should focus on the question o an asoegt of the auestion and move vour answer onto at related but more familiar topics. This is not ideal, but itis still better than saying nothing220 IELTS Speaking Topics W 8. When you can not remember an English word, use other words. Try to explain or give examples, Sometimes you can use the opposites. For example, if you forget to say the word. “tidy” while you are describing your roommate or your neighbor, you can say “clean” or "not messy". 9, Part 3 is where the final score is given to you. So, try to use a wide range of vocabularies, different expressions, and also various structures to present your ability in using language in different situations. For example, if you are asked, "what do you think about the balance between the work and leisure”, you can say: "Lam a big table tennis fan, even though I am not very good at playing table tennis myself. | love to watch the match on TV.I play table tennis whenever I get a chance. Playing table tennis not only refreshes my body and makes me mentally alert, but it also makes me ready and eager to engage in the work of day. In addition, a reasonable amount of exercise dulgence in physical prepares the body for a good night sleep. However, over- exercise can do more harm than good because it will make you too tired to stay awake during the work. 10. Try to see the following websites which offer in-depth articles on a variety of topics of t. Read some of the articles, cheek the vocabulary you don't know, try to get a eneral inter tanding of what an article is about and understand some of the specific details. general unders Try to pick up something from the articles there in order to improve your general knowledge. t that you can use in the test, it will improve your confidence! If you remember just one fa The Economist: www.the economist.com = National Geographic :www.nationalgeographic.com = New Scientist: ww cients ne’ com © Go articles: www. goarticles.com ® Find articles: ww. findarticles.com After the Interview At the end of the interview. you should say "Thank you and Goodbye. 2. De not ask the examiner about your score because he not in a position to tell you.V 220 IELTS Speaking Topics HOW TO IMPROVE YOUR SPEAKING 1 Sentence Building: Make a better sentence, get a better score. The following questions and answers will give you hints on how to improve your performance and therefore get a better score Question: Tell me about your family. Common Answer: There are two people in my family. Better answer: In [ran today, a majority of families have two members and my family i no exception OR: A typical Iranian family has two members; however, my family is an exception. | am from rather a big family Question: What is your home town like? Common Answer: It is very nice and clean. Better answer: it is a populous city with variety of things to do. It has many parks, restaurants, and shopping centers. However, traffic and pollution are two disadvantages of my hometown, Question: How do you feel about your job? Common Answer: | like my job very much Better answer: | really enjoy what | am doing everyday. Believe me, although it has long, working hours, itis a very well-paid job and it is very rewarding. Question: What do you dislike about your class Common Answer: Studying is very difficult, Better answer: When I think about how hard my lessons are, I feel like quitting, which is one reason I've decided to go abroad Note: the question is about your feeling and the answer is correc So, it shows the candidate has understood the question and has given correct and good reply Question: What do you do in your free times? Common A. wer: jogging and sometimes read papers.220 IELTS Speaking Topics W Better answer: I rarely haye free times. If I got free time, | would probably do many different things, including playing sports, going out with my friends, listening to music, and soon, Question: What do you want to do in future? Common Answer: I want to be a lawyer. Better answer: when I was a child | have always wanted to become a lawyer. Now after many years of study, I plan to have become a lawyer. I hope my dream comes true. Note: Excellent! Compare the past dream with the present; hard work to show the bright future, Question: Tell me about a celebration or a holiday in your country. Common Answer: The New Year Holiday is the biggest and the most famous festive in my country. Better answer: When spring comes and the nature is green, it means it is the time to celebrate the biggest Iranian Festival, known as Nowrouz. It is the time when people dress new clothes, children receive gifs from the elders, and people visit their relatives. Note: Good Job! Not only have you named the specific holiday, but you also have provided explanations with few sentences to show how the Holiday is celebrated in your country: Quesi Common Answer: | hate shopping, but I have to do it. ion: Do you like shopping? Better answer: When | think of shopping, | think of crowds, all the difficult choices, and the money I have to spend, so I hate shopping Do not use too many connectors when you speak. It may sound unnatural For example: After resting all the night, waking up ev g, and doing my chores, 1 look ry mort ard to a new day Don't say: Afier resting all the night and waking up every morning, and after that doin my chores, | look forward to a new day 3- Mis i mportant to use different stru jous tenses to present your speaking ability. Moreover, you have to be sure of a tense and grammar you are using. It is important rect and accurate, For example, when you are asked to compare recent changes inVv 220 IELTS Speaking Topics your country with the past, you have to start with the past tense and simply shift to present tense. Example: How has travel changed in your country over the last 20 years? Answer: Well, the first thing is that there are more and more cars on the road, so traffic congestion is becoming a serious issue. We used to have a good and smooth public transportation system, but fewer people use it now; the numbers of services have been er reduced. 4- Try to use a wide range of vocabularies throughout the test. Use different expressions and vocabularies, but make sure you know the correct usage of the words you are using. In this way, you can a d repeating yourself. 5- Try to improve your pronunciation by listening to native speakers. Listening will help ‘You to learn how to stress important words, how to speak naturally and even how to organize your speech. When you learn a new word, lean how to pronounce it correctly. Then, make sentet ces with the new vocabulary. Afier that practice pronunciation every week (3-4 times a week) by reading out loud a short passage.220 IELTS Speaking Topics VW MOST COMMON CONNECTING WORDS, "After " or " Before" = Afier the car hit me, I was taken to the hospital. "Before she goes to school, she has to review her lessons. = After that, I took a deep breath and started speaking, = Before that, I was working as a clerk in an office. "Although" , " even though", " However, "yet" , "but" , "while", and "whereas" — (For Contrast) * Although my hometown is very small, it has many interesting places to visit. . Even though | was tired, | managed to give him a ride. * Tbasically agree with you, However, I don't know if that will be true in future . That is what I have thought most of my life. Yet, | wonder if | am wrong. . This is usually true, but | think we have to consider another aspect of it. = In most cases that is true, but + Inatypical situation that may happen, but.. . In an ideal situation we can do it that way, but. = While the number of cars is increasing, the quality of life is decreasing. . The number of unemployment is on rise, where as the life standards are increasing. Note : Notice the use of " In contrast" and" On the other hand" n the other hand" and "in contrast". If Many candidates often make mistakes when using you are contrasting ideas about the same general subject, use "on the other hand” if you are contrasting the ideas (the object) , use " in contrast” Ex: lam improving my vocabulary. On the other hand, I am getting worse in grammar. Ex: The Company lost 20%. in contrast to last year, when it gained 80%, "Another" * Another good thing about my job is flexi working hours. * Another way to solve the problem would be to relocate the factories. "As with "or" just like" = As with the first question, we must consider this one very earefully. . Just like Tokyo and London, Sydney has fast and developed transportation systemV 220 IELTS Speaking Topics "At the same time" = wanted to be frank with him. At the same time I didn’t want to offend him. = There are too many cars in Tokyo. At the same time, the city is building subway lines and adding more buses. "Besides" or "In addition to" (to add extra information) + Besides that fact, here is another interesting point that I would like to mention and that is the low rate of unemployment . In ad cidents. jon to that law, there are many other laws to prevent traffic "Because" or "the reason is" (to give reasons) = Many people believe that is true. I disagree because. . My point of view is......The reason | believe that is because. * ‘The reason I doubt that is. * Ido not agree with that at all. The reason is that... "Except foi = Except for that one case, I do not know of any other problems. = Except for the main character, all the others were bad people. "For example" = believe that moving the factories to the remote areas is the best way. Let me give you an example, "When" or "whenever" = When I think about such a topic, I think about . When I remember how I ew up, realize... . Whenever I think about my studies, 1 wonder how I survived!220 IELTS Speaking Topics Vv Some useful expressions you need to know to give personal or non-personal information especially in PART 2 & PART 3, when you need to give reasons and support your statements. "Introducing" = I'm going to talk about . = I've chosen to talk about. = The aspect/factor/ issue I've looked at is. = What I'm going to cover is.. "I've decided to talk about = remember There are a lot that I've enjoyed, but the best one was "Opening expressions to get going” = One of the most important things I did was to... * Idid a number of important things such as. = Last year was an important year because i = Ofall the things I did, | enjoyed skydiving the best. * There are a lot that I've enjoyed, but the best one was... = The main reason why there is much traffic in this city is lack of roads and proper public transportation, = Most importantly. = Last but not least. The only explanation I can think of is. = My impression is that... xemplifying" * Consider... for example Take...as one example of.w 220 IELTS Speaking Topics = Inthe case of..., * For instance, industrial factories have to be displaced to remote areas. + I, personally believe that several factors such as, "Expressing a Preference = [prefer A to B because. (I preter watching TV to reading newspapers in my free times.) = If Thave a choice, I will ......(a real possibility) (If T have a choice, I will swim in the pool not in the sea because sea sometimes has rough waters, but the indoor pool is always calm.) + If Thad a choice, | would. ( not a real possibility, just whishing) (If Thad a choi e, I would travel by plane not by train since airplane is safer, faster and more conve nt in long distances = Form . A is much more attractive/ interesting/ preferable than B because (For me, watching a film is more entertai ¢ than reading a book because when I watch a movie, I can see different scenes and spi ial effects whereas; in a book I have to imagine the characters to follow the story line.) + Twould much rather do/have/eat/ listen to......A than B. Note: "Would rather" is always followed by an infinitive WITHOUT "TO". (1 would rather shop in an old market than ina modem shopping mall, Expressing Opinions" + This is only my opinion but + Aftera lot of thought, [ have come to the conclusion that . = I've never thought about this question much before, but it seems to me that there ought to be some facilities for senior citizens such as free medication. * In my opinion/ in my view... * Personally, I think/ believe... + Tomy mind. * As faras 1am concemed..... + From my point of view. + | think/ reckon/ presume. = 1 (strongly/personally honestly/tirmly) believe that..220 IELTS Speaking Topics WV = I'm convinced that = My own feeling is "Comparing and Contrasting” = Ais much better/ worse than B * — Aisnot nearly as good as B = When I compare these two items, it's clear that . + E-mails and memos can be equally effective as means of communication. = But/while/ whereas: communica jon by fax is almost instant, whereas letters ean take days to arrive. “Describing likes/ = Imkeen on... (ex: fi = I'm fond of... (ex: watching TV) * I'm into... (ex: mountain climbing) = Ladore... (ex: snorkeling) Lam interested in... (ex: swimming) * What | love to do is...(ex: jogging) = l'mnot keen on...(ex: playing chess) = Ican't stand...(ex: waiting in the queues for a long time) = Ihate/ dislike. ..(ex: watching football match) = I'mnot into... (ex: fashion/cooking) Describing the Past & Present Events (PART III) “Describing the Past” = Inthose days, = It was common to see. = Onee, * Back in... (Period of time or past memory), they would... . They used to. = Until quite recently...Vv 220 IELTS Speaking Topics Describing the Present = Nowadays, ... = They no longer have to... = Since then, + Things are getting (better/ worse/improved) = People are becoming. + These days. Giving reasons (Just ing opinions) (for part 111) The (main) reason: The reason I believe this is low crime rate "That's because of ... = The most important evidence supporting my belief is... = Because: because children spend so much time indoors, they may have health problems. = Becaus off as a result of: their schoolwork can suffer because off as a result of having incompetent principle. So/such: some games are so realistic that children may * That's why...: Fatty foods are fattening .That why I usually avoid them. Speculating / Making Prediction about the future = I'm not sure what might happen, but one possibility is. = It’s hard to predict the future, but I suppose it/ we might * Idon't really know whether It’s quite likely that .. = It's possible that .. * It’s not very likely that... * In the future, I think = [doubt whether ........vould happen. = Inthe long run... + Inyears to come Analyzing (for part III) «There are several points to consider, first of which is. We can break this question down into several parts. First, Let's look at this step by step, To begin with.220 IELTS Speaking Topics “Conversation Repair” = May be I'm not making myself clear. I want to say that.. = What I mean to say is... + What I'm trying to say is... = Another way to put it i “Opening the Discussion” + Well, in my view there's one main. + [think it depends on It's difficult to say because I've never... + Idon't ....but = [think there are a number of reasons. It's hard to say whether... + Itseems likely that “Describing Feelings & Concerns” * [feel very strongly that. = I'm rather concerned / worried about... . makes me feel a bit (worried/ upset)..... = I'm very much in favor of ... I don't have terribly strong views about = For me, this was interesting/horrible/fantastic/special because... “Expressing the effects of something” It was then that I saw the value of... + Tttaught me how to... * [realized the importance of. * From that point on, I've always. * Twas touched beeaus the movie was based on true story “Expressing your Agreement” * Yes, absolutely (because). = Yes. (thi k we should actually, (because), + Yes, | personally like this (because)220 IELTS Speaking Topics = [completely agree with this idea. * [couldn't agree more on this. “1 n't agree more. "My view about this is positive. + I think itis a good idea because... * There's a lot to be said for it, for instance... “Expressing Disagreement” + Not really, (because)... * [don't really think... = I'm afraid I can’t agree with that + I'm not sure that I agree with... = To be honest, no (because). = partially agree with you. "That's one way of looking at it, but... + I guess this idea is impractical. «Lam (completely) against it because... = There are too many drawbacks/ dangers such as... “Expressing your Partial Agreement (Hedging)” * F'm not so sure. You could say...., but. "It's hard to say. One way of looking at itis..., but... = You may have a point, but... * I partially (partly) agree with you. “Making a suggestion Or Giving Advice” Maybe, Perhaps, Possibly Ex: perhaps you have to work hard to gain success. = One possibility that I can think of is... * Another idea to think about is. . I think we should. = One idea would be to.220 IELTS Speaking Topics VW = One thing we could do, would be to... = Itwould be a good idea to. = I'mnotan expert, but. = Yes, in theory....but in practice... = Tread somewhere that ... = it portant / essential/ a good idea to.. = Try to (avoid/use/buy/ spend), etc... = When (traveling/ on holiday), people shouldn't’ ought to, ought not to, must/ must Summarizing = Altogether, there were In the end, they had to .. = Considering all of these factors, may be the best thing wouldW 220 IELTS Speaking Topics Chapter 2 IELTS SPEAKING PARTI Warm-up 1. Can you tell me your name? (IELTS Test Builder 2: 35,64) 2. What's your name? 3. Where do you come from? 4. Tell me something about your family. (High Impact IELTS: 8, 118) 5. Tell me something about your parents, 6. What is your full name? (IELTS practice test: 68) 7. What do people usually call you? 8. Where are you from? ANIMAL 1. What is your favorite animal? Why? (IELTS Test Builder 2,:64) 2, Do you like the same animal you liked when you were younger? 3. What can you learn about people from the animals they like? 4, Which animals are popular as pets in your country? BICYCLE 1. Tell me about the use of bieyeles in your country. IELTS Test Builder 2:119) 2. How popular are bieyeles in your country? 3. Are they used more now than in the past? Why? 4. What do bieycles mean to you? BOOK 1. What kinds of thi s do you enjoy readi 71) in English ?(1ELTS Masteretas 2. Are you someone who can read any where, or do you have a favorite place? 3. Do you need peace and quiet place to be able to read, or can you concentrate even in noisy situations 4. How did you first learn to read? (Step Up ELTS:79) 5. What did you prefer reading as a child? 6. Has your reading habit changed since you were a child?220 IELTS Speaking Topics nv ae) Er enironicns: ae . What can you learn about people from the colors the; COLOR . What is your favorite color? Why? (Cambridge 5:54) . Do you like the same colors now as you did when you were younger? Why? like? . Do colors have special meaning in your culture? COMPUTER . When did you first use a computer? (Step Up to IELTS: 97) Do you think computers are bad for your health? Which computer software do you use more? |. What purpose did you use your computer for? CLOTHING How important are clothes and fashion to you? (Cambridge What kind of clothes do you dislike? Why? How different are the clothes you wear now from those you wore10 years ago? What do you think the clothes we wear say about us? How do you feel about shopping for clothes? (Focus on IELTS: 132 (new) . Would you prefer to have a lot of clothes or only a few, better quality ones? city Which town or city do you come from?(Focus on IELTS: 30) What's the best thing about living there? Is there any thing you don't like? Which places would you recommend a tourist to visit? DAILY ROUTINE What would you like to change in your daily routine?(Cambridge 3: 99) Are all your days the sam Tell me about your typical weekday and your typical weekend. What is the balan ze of work/ study and free time in your normal days?v 220 IELTS Speaking Topics DANCE, 1. Do you enjoy dancing? Why? (Cambridge 6: 32) Has any one ever taught you to dance? . Tell me about any traditional daneing in your country, Rep . Do you think that traditional dancing will be popular in the future? DREAM 1. How often do you have dreams?(IETLS Objectives: 66) What do you dream about? . Why do some people have nightmares? - Is dreaming important to our well-being and health? Why? EATING HABIT/ FOOD |, What are your most/ least favorite foods? (Focus on IELTS: 16) 2. Ifyou invite a friend round for a meal, what are you likely to offer him? Do you prefer eating at home or in a restaurant? Why? . What special dish from your country would you recommend to a visitor? . What sorts of food do you enjoy eating mor . Do you spend much time shopping for food? WDE . Which one do you prefer, eating at home or eating out? 8. Do you think people should be careful about what they eat? 9. Who prepares the meals you eat? Do you ever cook? 10, What do you think makes cooking easy, and what makes it difficult? 11, What is your opinion of time-saving kitchen equipment, such as a dishwasher or food processor? (Qs 5 Exam Essentials IELTS: 130) 12. What types of kitehen appliances and gadgets do you think will be useful in the future? (Qs9-12, IELTS Object ) 13. What kind of food do you like? (I igh Impact IETLS: 118) 14, What do you know about Genetically Modified (GM) food? 15, What are the purposes of GM food? 16. Do you think there are any potential dangers of GM food? What are they? (Qs 14-16, Instant IELTS 9)220 IELTS Speaking Topics W 17, What are your favorite foods? (IELTS practice test: 68) 18, Is there anything you never eat? 19. Where do you normally eat? Why 20. In what ways are people’s eating habits changing these days? 21, What kinds of foods do you like to eat? (Cambridge 4: 56) What kind of new food would you like to try? 23. What was the last meal you cooked? 24. Do you prefer home-made food or food fiom restaurants? Why? FRU D 1, Do you preter to have one particular friend or a group of friends? (Cambridge6:100) 2. What do you like doing most with your friends? 3. Do you think it's important to keep in touch with childhood friends? 4. What makes a good friend? 5. Tell me about your best friend. (404 Essential Tests for IELTS, GT:83) 6. Are you friends mostly your age or different ages? (Cambridge 4: 33) 7. Do you usually see your friends during the week or at weekends? 8, The last time you saw your friends, what did you do together? 9, In what ways are your friends important to you? FAMILY, 1. Who do you live with? (404Essential Tests for IELTS: 38) 2. Do you spend much time with your family? 3. Is your family small or quite large? (IELTS practice test: 68) 4. What do you do when you are all together? 5. Do you have a large or small family? (Cambridge 3: 29) 6. What sort of things do you do with your family members? 7. Do you get on well with your family? Why? FAVORITE/ SHOP 1, Are you loyal to any brands, i.e, do you always try to buy that particular brand? (IELTS Objectives: 20) 2. Do you want other people to know you buy a particular brand?Vv 220 IELTS Speaking Topics 3. Do you buy any products without considering the brand name? 4. How do you feel about going shopping? 5. Do you like buying clothes or goods on the Intemet? Why? 6. What don't you like about shopping?” FESTIVAL 1. Can you describe one of the main festivals celebrated in your country? (IELTS Strategies For Study: 129) 2. Tell me something about the most important festival in your country? 3. What special food and activities are connected with this festival? 4. What do you most enjoy about it? 5. Do you think festivals are important for a country? Why? (Qs 2-8, Cambridge 3: 83) 7 LM /MOVIE 1. Are film stars paid too much money, in your opinion? 2. Do you think there is too much violence in modern mov 3. What do you think about film censorship? Is it necessary? (Qs 1-3, Focus on IETLS: 165) 4. What was the last film you saw? Did you enjoy 2 (Step Up to IELTS: 68) « Which actor do you like the most? 6. What do you know about Hollywood? JOB 1, Can you tell me about the job you are doing? (IELTS Masterclass : 34) w What do you like or dislike about it? ‘What plans do you have for your career in the future? 5 How serious is unemployment your country? (IELTS Strategies For Study:129) Is English important in your chosen career? (Test builder: 69) 2 What do you hope to do in future? . Have you ever ven up anything you used to do in free time? if'so, what? 8. Which other hobbies or sports would you like to do? 9. Do you share similar interes 's with your friends? 10, How serious is unemployment in your country? (IELTS Strategies for study:129)220 IELTS Speaking Topics Vv HEALTH/ KEEPING FIT 1. What kind of exercise do you do regularly? (Focus on IELTS :9) 2. What nd of exercise do you enjoy least? 3. Why is exercise good for health? 4. What kind of exercise would you suggest to someone who is very unfit? 5. What are the best ways to get fit and stay healthy? (IELTS Masterclass: 33) 6. Can attempts to improve fitness and health be dangerous? 7. What are the biggest dangers to our health these days? 8. What are the most significant recent breakthroughs in medicine? HOBBY/ LEISURE ACTIVITY 1. What do you do in your spare time? (IELTS Masterclass : 136) How long have you been interested in this activity? 3. Do you do this alone or with other people? 4. How much time do you spend doing this activity? 5. Where do you do it? 6. Do you need any special equipment to do it? 7. What is it about this particular activity that suits your personality? 8. Why is it generally beneficial for people to have hobbies? 9. How do you benefit from yours? 10. Is itan expensive hobby? 11, What are the disadvantages of your hobby? 12. What hobbies are popular in your country? 13. Which hobbies or interest you enjoy? (Exam Es 14, Which hobbies or interest you had when you were a child? 15, Do you think parents should encourage their children to have a hobby or interest? 16, Talk about your hobbies.(High Impact IELTS 3) 17. Do you prefer to be indoors or outdoors? (404,GT,:68, 83) 18. How do you keep fit? 19, What do you do to relax in the evenings? 20, Do you like to relax with others or by yourself? How do you spend your free times? (Barron's IELTS: 118)VW 220 IELTS Speaking Topics 22. How often do you do this activity or hobby? 23. Do you do it on your own or with other people? 24, Do you belong to a club related to this hobby/ activity? 25. How did you learn about how to do this hobby/ 26. Do you need special equipment for it? 27. What do you like most about it? 28. What kind of things do you do in your free time? (Fest builder: 26) 29. How long have you been doing them? 30. What is it about them that you enjoy particularly? 31. What you do in your spare time? (IELTS practice tes 32. Do you have any hobbies or interest? 33. How did you t become interested in that? 34. Do you have any hobbies or interests? Why? (Cambridge 4: 80) 35. How did you become interested in (whatever hobbies the candidate mentions)? 36. What is ther in your country/ hometown to do in your free times? HOMETOWN / BIRTHPLACE I. Describe a place where you were born? (ELTS Test Builder 2:35) Tell me about the main types of buildings there. . How have buildings in your hometown changed since you were a child? mw, . Can you deseribe your home town for me? (404, GT: 8) Which part of your country do most people live? (Cambridge 5:31) Tell me about the main industries in your city . Tell me about your hometown. (High Impact IETLS : 58, 118,213) eae . Can you deseribe your home town? 9. Where is your hometown? (Step Up to IELTS: 97), 10. Where were you born2(ELTS Strategies for study :121) 11. What part of the city do you live in? 12. What are the main tourist attras fons in your country?220 IELTS Speaking Topics MUSEUM 1- Which museums have you visited recently? (IELTS Masterclass : 158) 2- What did you enjoy seeing there? 3- Which famous museum would you like to visit? 4- Which collections would you particularly like to see there? MUSIC 1. Which instruments do you like listening to most? Why? (Cambridge 6 : §4) 2. Have you ever leamed to play a musical instrument at school? Why? 3. Do you think children should learn to play a musical instrument at school? 4, How easy would it be to learn to play an instrument without a teacher? 5. What is the national music of your country? What instruments are used? 6, How important is music in your culture and traditions? 7. On what occasions does music play an important role in your country? (Qs $-7, Focus on IELTS:56) 8. How important is music in your life? (ELT Objectives:58) NEWS 1, Where do you normally get news from? (IELTS practice test:68) 2, How do you think news reporting in your county differs from the abroad? 3. Tell me about an interesting news items you've read or heard recently? PHOTOGRAPH 1. Is photography becoming more popular these days, in your experience? (Focus on TELTS :165) Camera never lies"? 2. Would you agree with the say 3. Would you say photography is an art? SCHOOL, 1, Do you enjoy your time at school? (IELTS Practice Test: 129) 2. Would you recommend your school to others?Vv 220 IELTS Speaking Topics 3. What subject did you find most interesting when you were at school? 4. Apart from classes, what else did you enjoy at school? 5, Do you think you will stay friends with people from your school? 6. What study or training would you like to do in the future? (Qs 3-6, Exam Essentials IELTS: 130) 7. What were your favorite subjects at school? (404 IELTS, GT: 68) 8. Did you learn a language at school? (Test builder: 37) 9, How long have you been studying? 10. What subject did you find the most difficult to study? 11, What do you like/dislike about studying? 12. Do you hope to gain any qualifications? 13. Do hope to do any further studies in the future? (IELTS Practice Test:95) 14, What do you remember about your first school, when you were a child? 15. In what ways have life changed since you were a child? 16. What was your favorite subject? Why? 17. What did you study at high school? (IELTS Strategies for stud; 18. Which is the most popular sport in your country? 19, How do people spend their weekends in your home town? 20. Could you tell me why you choose to study at ......University? SEA 1. Do you live near the sea? (Step Up to TELTS: 28) 2. How do you feel when you are near the sea’? 3. What do you like/ disl e about the sea? 4. Would you like to live on an island? Why? SPORT 1. What sports do you like? (High Impact IELTS: 34) 2. What sports are played in your country 3. What are sporting facilities like in your home town? (IELTS Strategies for Study: 128,129) 4. What is your favorite sport? (Step Up to IELTS:9) 5. When did you become interested in it? 6. How often do you participate in this sport?220 IELTS Speaking Topics Vv 7. What equipment do you need for that sport? 8. Where do you do this sport? 9, What sports are played in your country? ( IELTS Strategies for study :128-129) 10, What are sporting facilities like in your home town? TELEVISION 1, Do you watch a lot of TV? (ELTS Test Builder 2:92) 2. Tell me bout TV in your country 3. Do you watch a lotof TV? 4W at is your favorite TV program? 5. Is TV more important to you now than in the past? 6, How often do you watch TV? (High Impact IELTS:213) TRAVEL/TOURISM/HOLIDAY 1. Wha are the benefits of visiting different countr 2. What are the negative effects of tourism? 3. What do you need to do before you go abroad on holiday? 4, What type of problems can people have on holiday? 5, How should countries encourage tourists to come to their country? 6. How do you think tourism in your country will change in the future? 7. How easy is it to travel around your country? (Cambridge 5 8. Where would you like to travel in future? (404, G1:83) 9. What role does tourism play in your country’s economy? (IELTS Strategies For Study: 128) 10. Is there any thing you don't like doing on holiday’ (Step Up to IELTS:9) 11, Do you prefer to spend your holidays alone or with your friends? 12. What is your favorite holiday activity? 13, Do you enjoy traveling? (Step Up to TELTS:22) 14, Tell me about the best place you have ever visited. 15, Do you agree with the saying” Travel broadens the mind"? 16. What experience do you have of traveling to other countries? 17. Country would you especially like to visit? Why? (Qs 16-17, IELTS practice test 18. What are the main tourist attractions there? (IELTS practice test :117)220 IELTS Speaking Topics IETLS SPEAKING TOPICS PART 2 Describe a minor You should say How the accident happened What you did about it How long you took to recover and explain how you felt about the accident ident that you had in the past. Step Up To IETLS: 55 ADVERTISEME! Describe an advertisement that you have seen recently. You should say What the advertisement was about Where you saw it How effective the ad was and explain how you felt about it 404 Essential Tests for IELTS: 83 (Real Test) Describe an advertising photo or TV image you have seen and you think was effective You should say: Where you saw it What it was advertising What it showed and explain why you think this photo or TV image was effective Focus on IELTS: 132 (new)220 IELTS Speaking Topics AMBITION Describe an ambition you have for the future. You should say What this ambition is When you expect to achieve it How it will change your life in the future and explain why this ambition is important to you IELTS Objectives: 89 ANIMAL/ PET Talk about a pet that you once had. You should say What kind of animal it was What kind of care it needed What you liked/didn’t like about it and say whether it is a popular pet to own or not and why Barron’s IELTS :120 (Real Test) APARTMENT/ HOUSE. Describe a house/ an apartment you have lived You should say Why you liked living there When you lived there How it looked inside and explain what kind of area it was in. Focusing on IELTS: 93am 220 IELTS Speaking Topics Describe an ambition you have for the future. You should say: What this ambition is When you expect to achieve it How it will change your life in the future and explain why this ambition is important to you Talk about a pet that you once had. ‘You should say: What kind of animal it was What kind of care it needed What you liked/didn’t like about it and say whether it is a popular pet to own o not and why. Describe a house/ an apartment you have lived ‘You should sa\ Why you liked living there When you lived there How it looked inside and explain what kind of area it was in.el eee Describe a book you enjoyed reading You should say: ‘What the book was ‘What it was about When you read it and explain whether you liked it or not and why. Describe an important book you have read. ‘You should say: ‘What it was about Why you read it ‘When you read it and explain what impact it had on you. Describe a book you have read You should say: What type of book it was What it was about When you read it and explain how you liked it.220 IELTS Speaking Topics Describe a book you have read. You should say: What the name of book is What it is about When you read it and explain whether you like it or not, and why Preparation and Practice: 58 Describe a book you have enjoyed reading, You should say What the book was and who it was written by What it was about When and where you read it and explain what you liked about it. IELTS Masterclass: 172 (Real Test) Describe a building or construction you have seen that impressed you, You should say: What it was an old or new construction Where it was How big it was and explain what you liked or disliked about it IELTS Preparation And Practice: 65 (Real Test)220 IELTS Speaking Topics CHOICE Describe an important choi You should say: When you had to make this choice What you had to choose between Whether you made a good choice and explain how you felt about your choice. ‘ou had to make in your life: Cambridge 6 :100 CHILDHOOD Describe something you enjoy doing as a child. You should say What you did When you did it If you still do it and explain why you enjoyed it so much High Impact IEL’ Talk about a person from your childhood whom you particularly admired You should explain: Your relationship to him or her What he or she did What you admired about this person IELTS Practice Test : 27Describe a city you know well. ‘You should say: How big the city is ‘What kind of building it has ‘What transportation is available there and explain what you particularly like or dislike about, that city. Describe a city that you would like to visit in the future. ‘You should say: Where the city is How you would travel there What you would do there and explain why you woul Describe a place you have lived in that you particularly liked. You should say: When you lived there Who you lived with What was most memorable about this place and explain why you liked it so much, j i) eg Speaking Topics220 IELTS i nan Describe a city you have visited which has impressed you. You shouid say: Where it is located Why you visited it What you liked about it and explain why it impressed you. Describe a town you have enjoyed visiting. ‘You should say: Why you went to the town Who you saw there What you did there and explain why you enjoyed visiting the town. Describe a competition that you have entered You should say: When the competition took place What you had to do How well you did it and explain why participated in that competition.220 IELTS Speaking Topics DREAM Describe a dream you remember well. You should say: What it was about How you felt about that What it could indie: and explain why you remember it so well. IELTS Objectives: 69 (Real Test) DAY Describe a typical day at work, school or college. You should say What you do When you do it How long you've had this routine and what would you like to change in your work or study routine IELTS Plus 2:37 EVENT-EXPERIENCE Describe a memorable event in your life. You should say When the event took place Where the event took place What happened and explain why this event was memorable for you actly Cambridge 3: 75220 IELTS Speal a Describe a particular event in which you were successful, eg. an exam, sport event, etc. You should say’ What the situation was. When and where it happen What preparation was involved and explain how you felt about achieving this success. Describe a special occasion for which you arrivedlate, You should say: What occasion you were late for When it happened How you felt and explain why you were late. Describe an exciting experience in your life. You should say: When the experience took place Where the experience took place What happened exactly and explain why the experience was so exciting.iL eh, ee a Describe an interesting or important event in your life. ‘You should si What the event was Where and when it took place Who else was there at the time and explain what made it so interesting for you. Describe a big public event that you have attended. ‘You should say: What it was. When it was held ‘What happened and describe why it was held. Describe an enjoyable event that you experienced when you were at school. ‘You should say: What happened ‘What was good about it Why you particularly remember this event.220 IELTS — a, jet Describe a family event you are looking forward to. You should say: ‘What the event is Where it will be held What you will do at this event and explain why you are looking forward to this family event. Describe a serious environmental problem in your country. You should say: What it is What the effects of this problem are What causes that problem and explain what can be done to solve this problem. Describe someone in your family who you like. You should say: How this person is related to you ‘What this person looks like What kind pf person he/she is and why you like this person,220 IELTS Speaking Topics " Describe the member of your family who is the most successful. ‘You should say: Who this person is How often you see each other What this person does and explain why he/ she is successful. Describe the person in your family who you most admire. ‘You should say: What their relationship is to you What they have done in their life ‘What they do now and explain why you admire them so much, Describe the member of your family who is the most successful. You should say: Who this person is How often you see each other What this person does and explain why he/she is successful220 IELTS Speaking Topics sat You should say ‘Who the person is Why they are so special ‘What you usually do together and describe a special time you have spent with that person. Describe your favorite television program You should say: What type of program it is What happens during the program When you watch it and explain why you enjoy it so much. Describe your favorite way to relax. ‘You should What it is When you started doing it How ofien you do it and explain how it relaxes you,ee iil Speaking Topics is Describe your favorite subject at school. You should say: When you studied it What the subject was What the teacher was like and explain why it was your favorite subject. Describe your favorite type of dress. You should say: What kind of clothes you like to wear What fabries and colors you prefer What / who influences you in your choice of clothes and explain whether clothes are important for you. Describe your favorite shop. ‘You should say: Where it is What things it sells What sort of people are its customers and explain why you like the shop so much— ———— Describe a festival that is important in your country. You should say: When the festival occurs What you did during it What you like/ dislike about and explain why this festival is important. Describe an important traditional festival from your country. You should say: When it happens Why itis celebrated What is special about it and explain why it is more important than other festivals. Talk about your favorite festival. You shouid sa Where it is What it is celebrating ‘What makes you enjoy the things that happen and explain why this festival is important to you.220 IELTS Speaking Topics Deseribe a festival or cultural event that you celebrate in your country. ‘You should say: What the event is How often the event takes place ‘Who participates in this event and explain why this festival/event is important for you. Describe a celebration you remember. You should say: What event was being celebrated Where the celebration took place Why it was enjoyable and explain why it is memorable for you. Describe a special dish trom your country. You should say: What it is How it is prepared Where itis served and explain if you recommend it to a visitor or not, and why.220 IELTS i Describe a traditional meal in your country. You should say: How it is prepared When it is usually eaten ‘What, if any, is the significance or importance of the meal and explain whether you enjoy the traditional food of your country. Describe how to cook meal you ‘You should say: What it is ‘When you eat it What you need to make it and explain how you made it. Deseribe typical dish from your country that you would like to give a visitor from another country. You should say: What it is made trom When itis eaten Why this dish is popular and explain how you like this dish.ie 220 IELTS Speaking Topics ANY: Describe a popular food from your country. You should sa What it is How it is made When it is eaten and explain why it is more popular than other dishes Describe how to cook a meal you like. ‘You should say: What it is When you eat it What you need to make it and explain why you like it. Describe a traditional meal in your country. ‘You should say: What the meal is How it is prepared When it is usually eaten and explain what, ifany, is the importance of the220 IELTS a Describe a leisure activity that you enjoy ‘You should say What the activity is Where and when you take part in it What it involves. and explain why you enjoy it so much Describe your favorite leisure activity. ‘You should say: What it is How often you so it When you first started doing it and explain why it is important to you Describe what you most enjoy doing in your free time, You should say: Why you enjoy it so much When you do it What the activity consist of and explain how you took it up in the first place220 IELTS Speaking Topics Describe something you do in your free time. You should say: What kind of activity you do When you do it Where you do it and explain why you like doing it Focus on IELTS:59 (new) Describe a leisure activity (a game, hobby, or sport) that is popular in your country. You should say What this activity is and what people Where they do it Why people enjoy doing this activity and explain what you like/dislike about this activity JELTS Foundation:11 (Real Test) Describe an activity such a hobby you like doing You should say What the activity is. When you started doing it What you like about the activity and explain why this aetivity is important to you. IELTS Test Builder 2:92a 220 IELTS Speak Describe an interest or hobby that you enjoy. ‘You should say: How you became interested i How long you have been doing it? Why you enjoy it. and explain what benefits you get from this interest or hobby. Describe the thing you most like to do when you have time some free time. ‘You should sa What itis What you do What makes you enjoy the activity and explain why this activity is important to you. Describe a game/sport you enjoy playing. You should say: ‘What kind of game or sport it is Who you play Where you play it and explain why you enjoy playing it./ finite ee il Speaking Topics Wb Describe a present you bought which gave someone a lot of pleasure. You should say: What the present was Who it was for Why you chose it and explain why the person who received it was so pleased. Describe a natural hazard you have experienced. You should say ‘What it was When and where it happened What happened and explain how you felt about that. Describe something healthy you enjoy doing You should say: What you do Where you do it Who you do it with and explain why you think doing this is important.220 IELTS a Describe an activity you have done to keep fit You should say: What activity it was What you did exactly How long you did this activity and explain whether the activity was successful. Describe a family holiday you have been on which you particularly enjoyed. You should say: Where you went How you traveled there What you remember most about the family and explain why you particularly enjoyed this holiday. Describe the best holiday you have had, ‘You should say: Where you went What it was like What you did and explain why it was the best holiday you have had.220 IELTS Speaking Topics HISTORY Describe life in a particular period of history You should say: Which period you have chosen What were the benefits of life then What were the drawbacks of life then and explain if you would like to have lived then Objective EL’ (Real Test) JOB Describe the job you most like to have. You should say What this job would be Where you would work Which qualifications you would need and explain Why you like to have this job. Exam Essentials IETLS:170 Describe your first day in a new job. You should say What the job was What you expected before you started What happened on the first day and explain how you felt at the end of the day Fe IELTS OBJECTIVE! 25 (Real Test){TR 220 IELTS a sil Deseribe what you regard as the ideal job You should sa ‘What job it would be Why you consider it ideal What other people think of that job and explain how you would benefit from hi ing that job. Describe a job you have done in the past which you particularly enjoyed. You should say: What the job consisted of Who you worked for What part job was challenging and explain why you find this job so enjoyable. future. You should say: What the job co Where you would What qualifications are needed for that job and explain what attracts you to that job.220 IELTS Speaking Topics Wy, Describe a job you would like to do in future. You should say: Why you are attracted to this job How much training would be necessary What kind of personal qualities it would require and explain why you would like to do this job. Describe the job or career you have, or hope to have. You should say: What the job is What it involves Why you chose it and explain why itis rewarding. Describe an important letter you received ‘You should say: Who the letter was from What it was about Why it was important and explain how you felt about it.220 IELTS a itl Describe an e-mail or a letter you wrote to a particular person, ‘You should say: ‘Who the person was What you usually wrote How often you communicated with him and explain why you sent an e-mail/a letter to him. Describe a film you have enjoyed watching. ‘You should say: What type of movie it was What was it about When and where you saw it and explain how you liked it. Describe a film you have seen, ‘You should say: What it was about How popular it was ‘What you thought about the actors and explain why you remember it.‘i cee f- a ANAL 7 Describe a movie that had a great impression on you. ‘You should say: What type of movie it was Why you saw it ‘What it was about and explain why it made such a strong impression on you. Describe a film that you particularly like. You should say: What it was about What happened in the film How did you liked it and say what sort of people you think would enjoy this film. Describe a song or a piece of music you like You should say: What the song/ music is, What kind of song or music itis Where you first heard it explain why you liked it.Describe a popular musical instrument in your country. You should say What it is How it is played What sort of music can it play and explain why is it so popular. Describe a music or concert that has made an impression on you ‘You should say: What kind of music it was and who performed it ‘What it was like musically What it was like virtually and explain why you liked or disliked it. Describe an occasion when you couldn't pay for something you wanted. You should say: What you wanted to pay for Why you weren't able to pay What you did and explain how you felt about the situation.fiche a Speaking Topics WAG: Describe a newspaper or magazine you enjoy reading. You should s: ‘What kind of newspaper or magazine itis How often you buy it What articles and information it contains and explain why you enjoy reading it Describe a museum or an art gallery that you have visited. You should say: ‘Where it is What the building is like Why you went there ind explain what you particularly remember about the place. Describe a museum that you have visited. You should say: Where it is located and what kind of museum it is What specific you can see there When and why you last visited it and discuss how it compares to other museums you have visited