IELTS Speaking Module – Detailed Overview

IELTS Speaking Module – Detailed Overview

Duration: 11–14 minutes
Format: Face-to-face interview with an examiner
 Parts: 3 (Introduction & Interview, Cue Card, Discussion)

Part 1: Introduction & Interview

·         Time: 4–5 minutes

·         Focus: General questions about your life, habits, likes, and experiences.

·         Types of Questions:

o    Home, family, work, studies

o    Hobbies, daily routine, future plans

o    Simple “Wh-” questions (what, why, when, where, how)

·         Method:

o    Give short but clear answers (2–3 sentences).

o    Avoid “Yes/No” only answers.

o    Add examples: “I enjoy reading books, especially novels, because they help me relax after a long day.”

Part 2: Cue Card (Long Turn)

·         Time: 3–4 minutes (1 minute to prepare + 2 minutes to speak + follow-up question)

·         Focus: Speaking continuously on a given topic.

·         Format: You will get a card with a topic and bullet points. Example: Describe a memorable journey you had.

·         Method:

1.      Use the 1-minute preparation wisely—make quick notes.

2.      Follow the bullet points, but expand with examples.

3.      Speak for at least 1½–2 minutes without long pauses.

4.      Use linking words: Firstly, In addition, However, Finally.

5.      Expect 1 short follow-up question at the end.

Part 3: Discussion (Two-Way Conversation)

·         Time: 4–5 minutes

·         Focus: More abstract and analytical questions related to Part 2 topic.

·         Types of Questions:

o    Opinions: Do you think traveling can change a person’s life?

o    Comparisons: How is traveling today different from the past?

o    Predictions: How will tourism develop in the future?

·         Method:

o    Give structured answers: Opinion + Reason + Example.

o    Show critical thinking: compare, contrast, speculate.

o    Use higher-level vocabulary (e.g., significant, influence, consequence, global impact).

o    Speak in 4–6 sentences per answer.

⭐ Tips for Success

·         Be confident and natural—it’s a conversation, not a test.

·         Don’t memorize; focus on fluency and clarity.

·         Pronunciation, grammar, and vocabulary all count, but fluency and coherence are the most important.

·         Use signposting phrases: In my opinion…, From my perspective…, That reminds me of…

 In short

·         Part 1: Easy, personal questions → 4–5 minutes.

·         Part 2: Cue card topic, 2 minutes talk → 3–4 minutes.

·         Part 3: Abstract discussion → 4–5 minutes.

 

IELTS Speaking Sample Test

Part 1: Introduction & Interview (4–5 min)

Topic: Daily life, studies, work

Q1. What is your full name?
A: My name is Gita Ghimire.

Q2. Where are you from?
A: I’m from Nawalparasi, a beautiful district in Nepal.

Q3. Do you work or study?
A: I am currently working as a marketing officer in a two-wheeler parts company.

Q4. What do you usually do on weekends?
A: On weekends, I usually relax at home, read books, and sometimes go out with friends to enjoy nature or watch movies.

Q5. Do you enjoy reading? Why or why not?
A: Yes, I enjoy reading because it helps me improve my knowledge and reduces stress after a busy day at work.

---

Part 2: Long Turn / Cue Card (3–4 min)

Cue Card Topic: Describe a memorable journey you had.
You should say:

·         Where you went

·         Who you went with

·         What you did there

·         And explain why it was memorable

Sample Answer:

Thank you for the question, sir. I would like to talk about a memorable journey I had last year. I went to Pokhara, which is a beautiful city in Nepal known for its lakes and mountains. I went there with my best friend, Rahul, and we stayed for three days.

During our trip, we did many interesting activities. We visited Phewa Lake and enjoyed boating in the calm water. We also went to Sarangkot early in the morning to watch the sunrise over the Himalayas, which was absolutely breathtaking. One of the most exciting experiences was paragliding. Flying above the mountains and lakes gave me a feeling of freedom and adventure. Besides these activities, we also explored local markets, tried traditional food, and took many photographs to remember the trip.

This journey was memorable for several reasons. First, it was my first adventure trip with a friend, and we shared many happy moments together. Second, the natural beauty of Pokhara, especially the sunrise from Sarangkot, left a lasting impression on me. Third, it was an opportunity to try new experiences like paragliding, which I had never done before.

In short, this journey to Pokhara is unforgettable because of the beautiful scenery, exciting activities, and quality time spent with my friend. It gave me a chance to relax, enjoy nature, and create wonderful memories that I will always cherish.

Follow-up Question: Did you take many photos during your trip?
A: Yes, I took many photos, especially of the sunrise from Sarangkot. The scenery was breathtaking, and I wanted to capture those moments to remember them forever.

---

Part 3: Discussion (4–5 min)

Topic: Travel & Tourism

Q1. Why do people like to travel?
A: People travel for various reasons. Some travel to relax and take a break from work, others to explore new cultures or learn something new. Traveling can also help people gain fresh perspectives and create unforgettable memories.

Q2. How has tourism changed in your country in recent years?
A: Tourism in Nepal has grown significantly. More people are visiting from foreign countries to see the mountains, temples, and natural landscapes. Technology, such as online bookings and travel apps, has also made planning trips much easier.

Q3. What are the advantages and disadvantages of tourism?
A: The advantages include economic benefits, job creation, and cultural exchange. However, disadvantages can include environmental damage, pollution, and overcrowding in popular destinations.

Q4. Do you think young people prefer traveling alone or with family? Why?
A: Young people usually prefer traveling with friends rather than family because they enjoy more freedom and adventure. However, some still value family trips for bonding and learning about culture and traditions.

Q5. How can tourism be made more sustainable?
A: Tourism can be sustainable by promoting eco-friendly practices, such as reducing waste, respecting local cultures, and supporting local businesses. Governments can also regulate tourist activities to prevent environmental harm.

---

Tips for Using This Sample

·         Part 1: Speak naturally, use full sentences.

·         Part 2: Prepare notes, expand ideas, and speak for 1.5–2 minutes.

·         Part 3: Use structured answers: Opinion + Reason + Example.

Sample 1: Education & Learning

Part 1: Introduction & Interview

Q1. Do you enjoy studying English?
A: Yes, I enjoy studying English because it helps me communicate with people from different countries and improves my career opportunities.

Q2. How often do you read books?
A: I usually read books a few times a week, especially in the evenings when I have free time.

Q3. What kind of books do you like?
A: I prefer non-fiction books, like biographies and self-improvement books, but I also enjoy novels occasionally.

---

Part 2: Cue Card

Topic: Describe a teacher who influenced you.
You should say:

·         Who the teacher was

·         What subject they taught

·         How they taught

·         And explain why they influenced you

Sample Answer:

Thank you for the question, sir. I would like to talk about a teacher who influenced me greatly. Her name was Mrs. Sharma, and she was my English literature teacher in high school. She was very kind, patient, and full of energy, and she loved teaching very much.

Mrs. Sharma taught English, but she made the subject interesting and easy to understand. She used different teaching methods in the classroom. For example, she asked us to participate in group discussions, debates, and storytelling. She also encouraged us to read books and write short essays. This helped us improve our vocabulary, writing skills, and confidence in speaking English.

One thing I liked most about her was her way of teaching. She explained difficult topics in a simple and clear way, and she always encouraged students to ask questions. She never got angry if we made mistakes and always motivated us to try again. Her classes were lively and enjoyable, and every student felt comfortable learning.

I was influenced by Mrs. Sharma because she taught me not only English but also important life lessons. She inspired me to work hard, stay disciplined, and believe in myself. Before her classes, I was shy and hesitant to speak English, but after learning from her, I became confident and started enjoying the language.

In short, Mrs. Sharma was an exceptional teacher whose teaching style, encouragement, and support left a lasting impact on me. She shaped my personality and gave me confidence to succeed in life.

---

Part 3: Discussion

Q1. How has education changed in recent years?
A: Education has changed a lot, with online learning and digital classrooms becoming common. Students have access to more resources and flexible learning methods.

Q2. Do you think traditional classroom learning is better than online learning?
A: Both have advantages. Traditional classrooms allow better interaction, while online learning offers flexibility. A combination is often the best approach.

---

Sample 2: Technology & Communication

Part 1

Q1. Do you use social media?
A: Yes, I use social media mainly to stay in touch with friends and follow news or interesting topics.

Q2. How often do you use your phone?
A: I use my phone daily, for both work and personal purposes, especially for messaging and emails.

---

Part 2

Topic: Describe a piece of technology you use often.
You should say:

·         What it is

·         How often you use it

·         What you use it for

·         And explain why you like it

Sample Answer:

Thank you for the question, sir. I would like to talk about a piece of technology that I use very often. It is my smartphone. I use it almost every day, both for work and personal purposes. I find it very useful and convenient in many ways.

I usually use my smartphone for communication. I make phone calls, send text messages, and chat with friends and family through apps like WhatsApp and Messenger. I also use it for browsing the internet, checking emails, and staying updated with news. Besides communication, I often use my phone for entertainment. I watch videos, listen to music, and play simple games during my free time. Additionally, it helps me organize my day because I can set alarms, reminders, and calendar events.

I like my smartphone because it makes my life much easier. Everything I need is in one device, and I can access information quickly. It also keeps me connected with people even if they are far away. I feel that it saves a lot of time compared to traditional methods of communication and information gathering.

Moreover, I enjoy learning new things through my smartphone, like watching tutorials, reading articles, and following educational channels. It has become an essential part of my daily life, and I feel lost without it.

In short, my smartphone is the technology I use most often. Its usefulness, convenience, and ability to keep me connected and informed make it my favorite technological device.

Part 3

Follow-up: How has technology changed our lives?
A: Technology has made life easier, faster, and more convenient. It has improved communication, education, and access to information.

Q1. What are the disadvantages of technology?
A: Overuse of technology can lead to reduced social interaction, distraction, and health problems like eye strain or poor posture.

Q2. How can people use technology responsibly?
A: By limiting screen time, balancing online and offline activities, and using technology for productive purposes like learning or work.

 

Sample 3: Environment & Nature

Part 1

Q1. Do you like spending time outdoors?
A: Yes, I enjoy outdoor activities because they help me relax and stay healthy.

Q2. What is your favorite outdoor activity?
A: I love hiking in the mountains because it combines exercise with beautiful scenery.

---

Part 2

Topic: Describe a place in nature you like to visit.
You should say:

·         Where it is

·         How you go there

·         What you do there

·         And explain why you like it

Sample Answer:

Thank you for the question, sir. I would like to talk about a place in nature that I really enjoy visiting. It is Chitwan National Park, which is located in the southern part of Nepal. I usually go there by car with my family or friends, and it takes about five to six hours to reach the park from my home.

When I visit Chitwan National Park, I enjoy many activities. One of my favorite activities is going on a jungle safari to see wild animals like elephants, rhinos, and deer. I also like bird watching because there are many colorful and rare birds in the park. In addition, I enjoy walking in the forest and exploring the natural surroundings. Sometimes, I also take photographs to capture the beauty of the park.

I like this place because it is very peaceful and calm. The fresh air and greenery make me feel relaxed and happy. Visiting the park gives me a break from my busy daily life and helps me connect with nature. I also feel that I learn a lot about wildlife and the environment when I visit there.

In short, Chitwan National Park is my favorite place in nature because it is beautiful, peaceful, and full of interesting activities. Visiting this place always refreshes my mind and makes me feel closer to nature. I hope to go there many more times in the future.

Follow-up: Why is it important to protect nature?
A: Protecting nature is crucial for maintaining biodiversity, clean air, and a healthy environment for future generations.

Part 3

Q1. How can people help protect the environment?
A: People can reduce waste, recycle, plant trees, and use eco-friendly transport methods.

Q2. What role should governments play in environmental protection?
A: Governments should create strict environmental laws, promote awareness campaigns, and support sustainable practices.

---

Sample 4: Work & Career

Part 1

Q1. Do you enjoy your work?
A: Yes, I enjoy my work because it is challenging, and I learn new skills every day.

Q2. What is your work routine like?
A: I usually start my day by checking emails, attending meetings, and completing tasks. I take short breaks to stay productive.

---

Part 2

Topic: Describe a job you would like to have in the future.
You should say:

·         What the job is

·         Where you would like to work

·         What skills you need

·         And explain why you would like it

Sample Answer:

Thank you for the question, sir. I would like to talk about a job I would like to have in the future. The job I want is to become a marketing manager in a multinational company. I have always been interested in marketing because it allows me to be creative, communicate with people, and help businesses grow.

I would like to work in a company that has offices in different countries, so I can gain international experience and learn about global business practices. Working in a professional and challenging environment will help me improve my skills and knowledge.

To succeed in this job, I need several skills. Good communication and interpersonal skills are very important because I will need to interact with clients, colleagues, and teams. I also need analytical skills to understand market trends and customer behavior. Creativity is necessary for planning marketing campaigns that attract people. Time management and problem-solving skills are also essential to handle multiple projects efficiently.

I would like this job because it combines my interests in business, communication, and creativity. It will give me an opportunity to grow professionally and personally. I also enjoy working in a dynamic environment where I can face challenges and achieve goals. Additionally, this job provides good career opportunities and a chance to make a positive impact on the company’s growth.

In short, becoming a marketing manager is my dream job because it matches my skills, interests, and career goals. I am willing to work hard and learn continuously to achieve this goal in the future.

Follow-up: What makes a job satisfying?
A: A job is satisfying if it challenges you, provides growth opportunities, and allows you to contribute meaningfully.

Part 3

Q1. How has the job market changed in your country?
A: Many jobs now require technical skills and adaptability. Remote work and digital industries have increased, changing traditional career paths.

Q2. Do young people prefer private companies or government jobs? Why?
A: Many prefer private companies for better pay and growth opportunities, but government jobs are still popular for security and benefits.

---

Sample 5: Culture & Festivals

Part 1

Q1. Do you enjoy celebrating festivals?
A: Yes, I enjoy festivals because they bring families together and create joyful memories.

Q2. What is your favorite festival?
A: My favorite festival is Dashain because it is a time to visit relatives, receive blessings, and enjoy traditional food.

---

Part 2

Topic: Describe a festival you enjoy celebrating.
You should say:

·         What the festival is

·         How people celebrate it

·         How you celebrate it

·         And explain why you enjoy it

Sample Answer:

Thank you for the question, sir. I would like to talk about a festival that I enjoy celebrating. The festival is Dashain, which is the biggest and most important festival in Nepal. People celebrate it with great joy and enthusiasm all over the country.

During Dashain, people clean and decorate their homes. They visit temples to offer prayers and receive blessings. Families gather together, and elders put tika and jamara on the younger members as a symbol of good luck and blessings. People also exchange gifts, eat traditional food, and wear new clothes. Many communities organize fairs and cultural programs, and children enjoy playing games.

I celebrate Dashain with my family. We visit our relatives, receive tika and blessings from elders, and share special meals. I also help my parents prepare food and participate in family activities. Spending time with family and relatives is one of my favorite parts of this festival. I also enjoy the traditional rituals and the happiness that surrounds everyone during this time.

I enjoy Dashain because it brings family and friends together. It is a time for joy, celebration, and bonding. I feel happy and relaxed during this festival because it gives me a break from my daily routine. I also like learning about our culture and traditions through the festival.

In short, Dashain is my favorite festival because it is full of happiness, family bonding, and cultural activities. Celebrating it makes me feel connected to my family, friends, and traditions.

Follow-up: How have celebrations changed in recent years?
A: Celebrations have become more modern, with parties and social media sharing, but traditional rituals still remain important.

Part 3

Q1. Why are festivals important in society?
A: Festivals preserve culture, bring people together, and provide an opportunity to relax and enjoy life.

Q2. Do festivals affect the economy?
A: Yes, festivals boost local markets, tourism, and sales of goods like food, clothes, and gifts.

---

Tips for Practice

·         Speak clearly and fluently; avoid memorized answers.

·         Use linking words: Firstly, In addition, However, For example.

·         In Part 3, give opinions, reasons, and examples.