IELTS Speaking

Test
Preparation
Goal
Goal
 Whether the
Speak clearly and
examiner can
pronounce
understand what is
accurately
being said
Pronunciation
Accent is alright if
the examiner can
understand
 Sentence
Intonation
stress
Fluency
Connected
Word stress
speech
Vocabulary and
Accuracy

Range Topic specific How long it Broader But only use Use advanced
words takes you to vocabulary = vocabulary that vocabulary and
access the higher score you are 100% nouns
vocabulary sure
Grammar
Use a wide range of
structures

Different sentence
structure (ie. Simple &
complex)

Tenses (past, present,

and future)
 Sentence Structure

• Simple Sentence
• Example: She reads every night.
• Structure: Subject + Verb + (Object)
 Sentence Structure

• Compound Sentence
• Example: She reads every night, and she enjoys
it a lot.
• Structure: Simple Sentence + , + Coordinating
Conjunction + Simple Sentence
 Sentence Structure

• Complex Sentence
• Example: She reads every night because it
helps her relax.
• Structure: Independent Clause + Subordinating
Conjunction + Dependent Clause
 Sentence Structure

• Compound-Complex Sentence
• Example: She reads every night because it
helps her relax, and she enjoys it a lot.
• Structure: Two or more Independent Clauses +
One or more Dependent Clauses
Part 1 Test
Part 1
• The examiner will ask you familiar, everyday questions
about your life. This will last around 4-5 minutes.
• Elaborate on your answers

• Avoid answers which is only a few words

• Explain why

• Speak more to show your vocabulary range

• But be careful not to go off on a tangent. Keep it

moderate, keep in focus on the topic.
• Not too short and long

• For eg. I like to study data science in university

because…
Part 1

• Basic answer + reason/detail/example

• Reason: ‘Why’ did you give the basic
answer?
• Detail: More information about your
answer
• Example: Something from your experience
1. What subjects are you studying?
Basic Answer: I am studying Art.
Reason: I chose Art because I love being creative.
Detail: Art lets me try different things like painting and drawing.
Example: Last semester, I made some paintings that were shown in
a local gallery. It made me really proud.

2. Do you like your subject?

Basic Answer: Yes, I really like studying Art.
Reason: It allows me to express myself.
Detail: I enjoy trying new styles and techniques.
Example: Recently, I tried mixed media art, combining photos with
painting. It was fun and challenging.

3. Why did you choose to study that subject?

Basic Answer: I chose Art because it’s my passion.
Reason: Art helps me say things that are hard to say with words.
Detail: I believe following my passion will make me happy in the
future.
Example: I’ve been drawing since I was a child, and I always knew I
wanted to study Art.
4. Do you think that your subject is popular in your
country?
Basic Answer: Art is not very popular, but it’s getting more
attention.
Reason: Many people think Art is just a hobby, not a real job.
Detail: But more people are starting to appreciate Art now,
especially with digital media.
Example: There are more art shows and festivals now than
before, which is a good sign.

5. Do you have any plans for your studies in the next

five years?
Basic Answer: Yes, I plan to keep studying Art for the next
five years.
Reason: I want to learn more and maybe specialize in
something like graphic design.
Detail: After my bachelor’s degree, I want to do a master’s
degree.
Example: I’m looking into art schools that offer good
1. What are the advantages of using public transport?
Basic Answer: Public transport is cheaper and better for the
environment.
Reason: It costs less money than driving a car.
Detail: Also, it reduces traffic and pollution.
Example: For example, taking the bus helps save money on gas
and parking.

2. Do most young people prefer to take public transport

to school or to work?
Basic Answer: Yes, many young people use public transport.
Reason: It’s cheaper and they don’t need to worry about
parking.
Detail: Also, they can relax or study on the way.
Example: For instance, many students take the bus or train to
school every day.
3. Which means of transport is expensive?
Basic Answer: Taking a taxi is expensive.
Reason: Taxis cost more than buses or trains.
Detail: You have to pay for each ride, and it can add
up quickly.
Example: For example, a taxi ride across the city
can be very costly.

4. Which means of transport is convenient?

Basic Answer: Buses and trains are convenient.
Reason: They have regular schedules and many
stops.
Detail: You can find a bus or train station almost
anywhere in the city.
Example: For instance, in big cities, buses come
every few minutes, making it easy to get around.
 Describe a book you have
read recently.
• What the book is
• Who wrote it
• What it is about
• Why you liked or disliked it

Part 2 Test
Part 2

• Speak for the almost full amount of time

• Some small slips is fine
Part 2

• Focus on past, present, & future

• Easier to give more ideas for content
• Helps show your grammar (shows past,
present, and future tenses)
Part 2
• Begin: I’d like to tell you about (5-10 seconds)

• Talk about the past: In the past.. (30-40 sec)

• Talk about the present: Let me tell you a little more

about.. (30-40 sec) (Optional)
• Talk about your opinion/personally: For me
personally, (20-30 sec)
• Talk about the future: In the future I hope.. (10-15
sec)

• Timing is only a guide. Be flexible. Reach two

minutes.
Begin:
I’d like to tell you about a famous person who is a great role model for young people. His name is Elon Musk. He is known all over the world for his innovative ideas and
contributions to technology.

Talk about the past:

In the past, I first heard about Elon Musk when I read an article about his company, SpaceX. He had just launched a rocket into space, which was a big achievement. Before
that, he was also known for creating Tesla, a company that makes electric cars. What impressed me was learning how he faced many challenges but never gave up, even
when things seemed impossible. He had a vision and worked tirelessly to bring it to life, despite many failures along the way.

Talk about the present:

Let me tell you a little more about him now. Today, Elon Musk is one of the most influential people in the world. He continues to work on projects that aim to change the
future, like developing new technologies for space travel and clean energy. He’s also working on something called Neuralink, which could help people with brain injuries.
Beyond his companies, he’s also vocal about important issues like sustainable energy and the future of humanity. Many young people look up to him because he’s always
pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, showing that innovation has no limits.

Talk about your opinion/personally:

For me personally, Elon Musk is inspiring because he shows that with hard work and determination, you can achieve great things. He didn’t have an easy start, but he kept
going and now he’s making a big impact on the world. I think young people can learn from his example to keep dreaming big and not be afraid to take risks. His journey
teaches us that it’s okay to fail, as long as you keep trying and learning from those failures. I find this message very powerful, especially in today’s fast-paced world.

Talk about the future:

In the future, I hope more young people will follow his example and work on solving big problems like climate change and space exploration. Elon Musk shows that it’s
possible to make a difference, and I believe many will be inspired by him to do the same. I also think that as technology continues to evolve, his influence will grow,
encouraging even more innovation and progress. It’s exciting to think about how his work might shape the future and the world we live in.
Part 3
• More on ideas in general

• For eg. Why do people buy expensive clothes

(not why do you like to buy clothes)
• Increase coherence by giving examples.

• Focus on developing your answer

• Eg. Some people might think they should

wear this kind of clothes because, for
example.. However, others might feel
that..because
1. What kinds of people are likely to be the role models for teenagers?
Basic Answer: Teenagers often look up to celebrities, athletes, and influencers.
Reason: These people are in the public eye and seem successful and confident.
Detail: Teenagers admire their achievements and often want to emulate their lifestyles.
Example: For instance, many teenagers follow social media influencers who share their daily lives and inspire them with their style
or fitness routines.

2. Is it important for children to have a role model?

Basic Answer: Yes, it is important for children to have a role model.
Reason: Role models can guide children’s behavior and help them develop positive values.
Detail: Seeing someone they admire can motivate children to work hard and achieve their own goals
Example: For example, a child who looks up to a kind and hardworking teacher might strive to be more like them in their studies
and interactions with others.

3. Are there any differences between today’s famous people and those of the past?
Basic Answer: Yes, there are differences between today’s famous people and those of the past.
Reason: Today’s famous people often gain popularity through social media, while in the past, fame was usually through traditional
media like TV or films.
Detail: The way they interact with their fans has also changed; now, they can connect directly through platforms like Instagram or
Twitter.
Example: For example, a modern-day celebrity might share daily updates and interact with fans online, which wasn’t possible for
celebrities in the past.
4. What qualities do famous people have?

Basic Answer: Famous people often have qualities like confidence, talent, and charisma.

Reason: These qualities help them stand out and attract public attention.

Detail: Many famous people are also hardworking and dedicated to their craft, which contributes to their success.

Example: For instance, a famous actor may not only be talented in acting but also very dedicated, spending hours
perfecting their role.

5. What kinds of people are likely to become famous?

Basic Answer: People who are talented, innovative, or charismatic are likely to become famous.

Reason: These traits help them gain attention and recognition in their field.

Detail: Additionally, people who are able to connect with a large audience, either through entertainment or social media,
often achieve fame.

Example: For example, an entrepreneur who creates a popular product or a musician who produces a hit song can quickly
become famous.

6. Do people tend to choose the best people as their role model?

Basic Answer: Not always; people don’t always choose the best role models.

Reason: Sometimes, they are attracted to fame and popularity rather than positive qualities.

Detail: However, many do try to choose role models who exhibit good values and behaviors.

Example: For instance, while some might look up to a famous person just because they are popular, others might choose a
role model who is kind and hardworking, like a family member or a teacher.
Weather ( 天气）
Topic
Peers (friend)
Im sorry, I don’t understand
Co-worker
Peers
How can a person be a good…
Tips
• It is better to practice a little bit every day and improve your skills
gradually than to speak your native language all week until you have
an IELTS class.

• Your IELTS Speaking test is meant to be like a normal conversation

between 2 people. Therefore, if you don’t understand a word, you can
ask the examiner to explain what it means. Just say, ‘I’m sorry, could
you explain what X means?’. You can also ask them to repeat the
question. However, you can’t ask the examiner to explain the whole
sentence.

• Correct your mistakes. People make small mistakes when they speak
all the time, especially when they are nervous about an exam.
Correcting your mistakes as you make them can show the examiner
that you really do know your grammar and vocabulary. When you
make a small mistake, say sorry and repeat the sentence correctly.
Useful Linking Words (Addition)

• Furthermore
• Moreover
• Additionally
• Also
• In addition
• Besides
Useful Linking Words
(Time/Sequence)
• Firstly
• Secondly
• Then
• Next
• Finally
• Subsequently
Useful Linking Words (Contrast)

• However
• On the other hand
• Although
• Even though
• In contrast
• Whereas
Useful Linking Words (Cause &
Effect)
• Therefore
• Consequently
• As a result
• Thus
• Hence
• Because
Useful Linking Words (Examples)

• For example
• For instance
• Such as
• To illustrate
• Namely
Useful Linking Words
(Conclusion)
• In conclusion
• To sum up
• In summary
• Overall
• Finally
Synonyms for Common Words
• Good: Excellent, Great, Superb, Outstanding, Impressive

• Bad: Poor, Terrible, Awful, Dreadful, Unpleasant

• Important: Crucial, Vital, Significant, Essential, Key

• Big: Large, Huge, Massive, Enormous, Gigantic

• Small: Tiny, Miniature, Little, Compact, Minute

• Happy: Joyful, Delighted, Pleased, Content, Thrilled

• Sad: Unhappy, Sorrowful, Depressed, Miserable, Downcast

• Fast: Quick, Rapid, Swift, Speedy, Hasty

• Slow: Leisurely, Sluggish, Unhurried, Gradual, Delayed

• Beautiful: Attractive, Lovely, Stunning, Gorgeous, Exquisite

Examples of Idioms
• A piece of cake: Something very easy.

• Break the ice: To start a conversation in a social setting.

• Hit the nail on the head: To describe exactly what is causing a

situation or problem.

• Bite the bullet: To endure a painful experience or face a difficult

situation bravely.

• Under the weather: Feeling unwell.

• Let the cat out of the bag: To reveal a secret.

• The ball is in your court: It’s your decision or responsibility to do

something now.

• Costs an arm and a leg: Very expensive.

• Burn the midnight oil: To work late into the night.

 Topic Specific Words (Work)

• Freelance: Working for different companies at different times rather than being permanently
employed by one company.
• Promotion: The action of raising someone to a higher position or rank.
• Resume: A brief account of a person’s education, qualifications, and previous experience.
• Entrepreneur: A person who sets up a business or businesses, taking on financial risks in
the hope of profit.
• Internship: A period of work experience offered by an organization for a limited period of
time.
• Colleague: A person with whom one works in a profession or business.
• Networking: The action or process of interacting with others to exchange information and
develop professional or social contacts.
• Workload: The amount of work to be done by someone or something.
• Remote Work: A working style that allows professionals to work outside of a traditional office
environment.
• Skill Set: A person’s range of skills or abilities.
 Topic Specific Words (Travel)

• Tourism: The commercial organization and operation of vacations and visits to places
of interest.
• Accommodation: A room, group of rooms, or building in which someone may live or
stay.
• Expedition: A journey undertaken by a group of people with a particular purpose,
especially that of exploration.
• Destination: The place to which someone or something is going or being sent.
• Backpacking: The activity of traveling or hiking carrying one’s belongings in a
backpack.
• Sightseeing: The activity of visiting places of interest in a particular location.
• Jet Lag: Extreme tiredness and other physical effects felt by a person after a long
flight across several time zones.
• Culture Shock: The feeling of disorientation experienced by someone when they are
suddenly subjected to an unfamiliar culture or way of life.
• Souvenir: A thing that is kept as a reminder of a person, place, or event.
 Topic Specific Words
(Technology)

• Innovation: The act of introducing new ideas, devices, or methods.

• Artificial Intelligence: The theory and development of computer systems able to
perform tasks normally requiring human intelligence.
• Cybersecurity: The practice of protecting systems, networks, and programs from
digital attacks.
• Gadget: A small mechanical or electronic device or tool.
• Software: The programs and other operating information used by a computer.
• Hardware: The physical parts of a computer and related devices.
• Automation: The use of largely automatic equipment in a system of operation or
production.
• Blockchain: A system in which a record of transactions made in bitcoin or another
cryptocurrency are maintained across several computers.
• Augmented Reality: An interactive experience of a real-world environment where
objects are enhanced by computer-generated perceptual information.
• Bandwidth: The amount of data that can be transmitted in a fixed amount of time.
 Topic Specific Words (Education)

• Curriculum: The subjects comprising a course of study in a school or college.

• Tuition: Teaching or instruction, especially in small groups.
• Scholarship: A grant or payment made to support a student’s education.
• Extracurricular: Activities pursued outside of the regular academic curriculum.
• Lecture: An educational talk to an audience, especially to students in a university.
• Assignment: A task or piece of work allocated to someone as part of a job or
course of study.
• Diploma: A certificate awarded by an educational establishment to show that
someone has successfully completed a course of study.
• Vocational: Relating to an occupation or employment.
• Seminar: A form of academic instruction that involves discussion and
participation.
• Syllabus: An outline of the subjects in a course of study or teaching.
 Topic Specific Words
(Environment)

• Curriculum: The subjects comprising a course of study in a school or college.

• Tuition: Teaching or instruction, especially in small groups.
• Scholarship: A grant or payment made to support a student’s education.
• Extracurricular: Activities pursued outside of the regular academic curriculum.
• Lecture: An educational talk to an audience, especially to students in a university.
• Assignment: A task or piece of work allocated to someone as part of a job or
course of study.
• Diploma: A certificate awarded by an educational establishment to show that
someone has successfully completed a course of study.
• Vocational: Relating to an occupation or employment.
• Seminar: A form of academic instruction that involves discussion and
participation.
• Syllabus: An outline of the subjects in a course of study or teaching.
 The Seven Coordinating
Conjunctions

• For: Explains reason or purpose (similar to “because”).

• Example: “I was hungry, for I had not eaten all day.”
• And: Adds one thing to another.
• Example: “I went to the store, and I bought some milk.”
• Nor: Presents an alternative negative idea to an already stated negative
idea.
• Example: “She didn’t like the movie, nor did she enjoy the play.”
 The Seven Coordinating
Conjunctions

• But: Shows contrast.

• Example: “I wanted to go for a walk, but it started to rain.”
• Or: Presents an alternative or choice.
• Example: “We can go to the beach, or we can stay home.”
• Yet: Introduces a contrasting idea that follows logically (similar to “but”).
• Example: “It was raining, yet we still went hiking.”
• So: Indicates effect, result, or consequence.
• Example: “I was tired, so I went to bed early.”