Speaking Test – 2
PART 1
The examiner asks you about yourself, your home, work or studies and other familiar topics.
EXAMPLE
Travelling by plane
- Have you travelled a lot by plane? [To where?/Why not?]
- Why do you think some people enjoy travelling by plane?
- Would you like to live near an airport? [Why/Why not?]
- In the future, do you think that you will travel by plane more often? [Why/Why not?]
PART 2
Describe a person from your country who has won a prize, award or medal.
You should say:
- who this person is
- which prize, award or medal they received
- what they did to win this
and explain whether you think it was right that this person received this prize, award or medal.
PART 3
Discussion topics:
Rewards for children at school
Example questions:
- What types of school prizes do children in your country receive?
- What do you think are the advantages of rewarding schoolchildren for good work?
- Do you agree that it’s more important for children to receive rewards from their parents than from teachers?
Rewards for sportspeople
Example questions:
- Do you think that some sportspeople (e.g., top footballers) are paid too much money?
- Should everyone on a team get the same prize money when they win?
- Do you agree with the view that, in sport, taking part is more important than winning?
IELTS Speaking Test Sample (Band 7.5 – 8.5)
Topic Set: Travelling by Plane | Award-winning Person | Rewards
PART 1 – Travelling by Plane
Q: Have you travelled a lot by plane? To where? Why/Why not?
A: Yes, I’ve travelled by plane several times, mostly within Asia. I’ve flown to India, Thailand, and Malaysia for both vacations and family visits. I find air travel convenient and time-saving, especially for international trips.
Q: Why do you think some people enjoy travelling by plane?
A: I think people enjoy it because it’s fast and exciting. There’s a certain thrill in being above the clouds, and for many, it marks the beginning of an adventure or a break from routine life.
Q: Would you like to live near an airport? Why/Why not?
A: Not really. While it would be convenient for frequent travel, the constant noise from aircraft could be quite disturbing. I prefer a quieter neighborhood.
Q: In the future, do you think that you will travel by plane more often? Why/Why not?
A: Yes, I believe so. With the world becoming more connected and affordable airfares, I expect to travel more frequently for both professional and personal reasons.
PART 2 – Describe a Person from Your Country Who Has Won a Prize, Award or Medal
Cue Card Prompt:
Describe a person from your country who has won a prize, award or medal.
You should say:
- who this person is
- which prize, award or medal they received
- what they did to win this
and explain whether you think it was right that this person received this prize, award or medal.
Sample Answer:
One person from my country who has received a prestigious award is Kulman Ghising. He is the Managing Director of Nepal Electricity Authority and is widely known for ending the decades-long load-shedding problem in Nepal. He was awarded the “Manager of the Year” award by various national organizations.
He achieved this by implementing efficient electricity distribution systems, reducing corruption, and optimizing the use of hydroelectric power. His work had a massive impact on the daily lives of millions of people across Nepal.
I strongly believe he deserved the award. He brought about real change in a short period, something that many others had failed to do over the years. His contribution not only improved daily life but also helped boost the country’s economy. Recognizing such efforts sets a positive example for others in public service.
PART 3 – Discussion Topics
Rewards for Children at School
Q: What types of school prizes do children in your country receive?
A: In my country, students often receive certificates, medals, and sometimes books or scholarships as prizes. These are usually given for academic excellence, good behavior, or extracurricular achievements.
Q: What do you think are the advantages of rewarding schoolchildren for good work?
A: Rewards can motivate children to work harder and feel appreciated. They can also build self-esteem and encourage healthy competition among peers, which can lead to overall academic improvement.
Q: Do you agree that it’s more important for children to receive rewards from their parents than from teachers?
A: Both are important in different ways. Rewards from teachers validate a child’s performance in a formal setting, while parental rewards offer emotional encouragement. Ideally, children should receive recognition from both sides.
Rewards for Sportspeople
Q: Do you think that some sportspeople (e.g., top footballers) are paid too much money?
A: Honestly, yes. While they work hard and entertain millions, the amount of money some athletes earn is far beyond what seems reasonable, especially compared to professionals in fields like education or healthcare.
Q: Should everyone on a team get the same prize money when they win?
A: Ideally, yes, because success in sports is a team effort. However, in reality, star players often receive more due to their market value and fan following, which also drives income for the team.
Q: Do you agree with the view that, in sport, taking part is more important than winning?
A: I do. While winning is rewarding, participating builds character, discipline, and teamwork. Sports should be about growth and experience, not just the end result.