Speaking ITP

PIA IELTS GUARANTEE COURSE

SPEAKING

TABLE OF CONTENTS TOPIC 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

PART 1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3

TITLE Study Advertisement Bad advertisements Work Movie History Accommodation or Building Educational trip Teacher Bicycle Library Library resources Friends Game Playing in groups Sports Good news Emails and phones Travel Exciting sport Dangerous sports Daily routine Film Movie House Person who helped you a lot Asking for help

PAGE 1 3 4 5 7 8 9 11 12 13 15 16 17 19 20 21 23 24 25 27 28 29 31 32 33 35 36

TOPIC 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

PART 1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3

TITLE Reading Picnic Eating Holidays Recent event Special events The Internet Lesson Learning science Museum gallery Small businesses Small businesses Shopping Winner in competition Competition Party Important Decision Decision TV program Intelligent person Intelligent or beauty Household chores Unforgettable childhood memory Childhood Music Unsuccessful trip Planning a trip

PAGE 37 39 40 41 43 44 45 47 48 49 51 52 53 55 56 57 59 60 61 63 64 65 67 68 69 71 72

TOPIC 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29

PART

TITLE

PAGE

1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3

Advertisement Environmental problems Environmental crisis Flowers Favorite season Climate Teamwork or Cooperation Company/School project Group projects Company Something that makes you healthy Children and Play Newspaper and Radio Childhood activity Health Art A course one wants to learn Activities that children enjoy Hometown Traffic jam University education Language Cooking Traffic problems Films Book Food Industry Relaxation Interesting speech Speeches Colors Change in one’s life Change and progress

73 75 76 77 79 80 81 83 84 85 87 88 89 91 92 93 95 96 97 99 100 101 103 104 105 107 108 109 111 112 113 115 116

TOPIC 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40

PART 1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3

TITLE Food Good advice Best advice Weather Historical place History Public transportation Tourist Travelling Clothes and Fashion Favorite place City and Countryside Animals Clothing Clothing Industry Family Music People and Music Hobbies Important stage in life Age and our society Festivals Elderly person you admire Elderly people & our society Weekend Sports event Academic and athletic competition Childhood TV programs Reading Names Best friend Language

PAGE 117 119 120 121 123 124 125 127 128 129 131 132 133 135 136 137 139 140 141 143 144 145 147 148 149 151 152 153 155 156 157 159 160

Topic 1 Extra Questions:

Part 1 STUDY Do you study in a university?

Do you prefer to study alone or with other students? Why? What are the advantages of studying with your friends?

Is there any equipment which helps you to study?

Related vocabulary and expressions 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

schoolwork (n) field of study (phr) theory (n) comprehend (v) succeed in (phr v) job-related (adj p) reputable (adj) compulsory (adj) optional (adj)

a) b) c) d) e) f) g) h) i) j)

What do you find the most difficult in your major?

What do you have to do with your classmates?

What do you want to do in the future?

What grades do you usually get?

Are you grade-conscious?

How do you feel when you get low grades?

Do you have any study habits?

Do you like studying with the television on?

What was your favorite high school project?

Do you prefer studying in complete silence?

Idiom to flunk – to fail or perform badly

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 1

SAMPLE ANSWERS  Do you study at a university?

Yes, I am currently enrolled in a university, and I am already in my third year of study. Studying at university is rewarding, but I still have one year to go before I graduate and pursue a career.

 Do you prefer to study alone or with other students?

I prefer to study alone in the library rather than with other students in public areas. This is because I am easily distracted, and when other students are studying around me, I cannot concentrate on my own work, so I avoid studying with others.

IELTS SPEAKING

 What are the advantages in studying with your friends?

Some advantages of studying with my friends include being able to teach each other and enjoyment. I can easily ask my friends for help whenever I don’t understand something, and we can work on it together, aside from making study sessions more enjoyable as they keep me company.

 Is there any equipment which helps you to study?

When I study, I rely on computers and the Internet to help me in studying different subjects. Many people don’t consider using the Internet, but I find that it makes sifting out information faster, and is more efficient than using library equipment to obtain information.

PAGE 2

Part 2 Describe an advertisement

Describe an advertisement

You should say

You should say

what was the product why did you want to buy it where did you buy it when did you buy it

Model Answer

what was the product why did you want to buy it where did you buy it when did you buy it

Your Answer

I would like to tell you about a pink I-pod Nano.

I would like to tell you about …………… which is …………..... .

This was the product’s advertisement that I saw when I flipped through a magazine at a grocery store.

There are several reasons why ……………… .

There are several reasons why I like this product.

First of all, I wanted to have it right away! All my friends had one, and I felt like I was the only one who didn’t have. I called my friend Tim and we went to the mall after lunch to see if they had them. I saw one in the window at the electronic store, so I went to buy it.

Second, I was using an old MP3 player that I was wanting to replace because it didn’t have enough memory on it to store all of my songs.

First of all, …………

Second, ……..

Last but not least, …………..

Last but not least, it was on sale so I bought it right away!

For these reasons, I don’t have to be embarrassed by my old MP3 and I have plenty of storage space to save my music.

IELTS SPEAKING

For these reasons, ……….

PAGE 3

Part 3 What kinds of advertisements are bad for kids?

What types of media show advertisements the most?

What do you think are the positive and negative aspects of advertisements?

What kinds of advertisements are bad for kids?

Advertisements that are bad for kids are those that show violence, and have inappropriate language and actions. Kids tend to imitate what they see because they still cannot decide what is right and wrong by themselves due to their young age and lack of experience.

What do you think are the positive and negative aspects of advertisements?

Advertisements are positive in that they give people information about different products and services that they might need. These advertisements may mislead people, however, so the negative aspects include some tending to exaggerate and provide the wrong information for the sake of a company’s increased profits.

What types of media show advertisements the most?

The different types of media in which advertisements are shown the most are television, radio, and newspapers. These three media branches are the most accessible to people, and therefore show the majority of the advertisements that most people encounter in their daily lives.

IELTS SPEAKING

Extra Questions: a) b) c) d)

Should the government take measures to control advertisements?

How can governments control advertisements?

Is there something bad about advertisements?

What kinds of advertisements are popular?

PAGE 4

Topic 2 Extra Questions:

Part 1 WORK You mentioned you have a job; what kind of job is it?

Why did you choose this job?

Is your work easy or not?

Do you use mainly computers at work?

Related vocabulary and expressions: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

a) b) c) d) e) f) g) h) i) j)

What kind of training did you undergo for that work?

Would you like to get further training in the future?

Do you prefer to work in a group or work alone?

How many job interviews have you underwent before?

Do you see yourself in this job 10 years from now?

Do you want to be your own boss?

Would you prefer to work by yourself or with others?

Are there any occupational hazards in your job?

Do you prefer a field job or a desk job?

Do you get any special treatment in work for certain reasons?

profession (n) responsibility (n) line of work /business (phr) occupation (n) be involved in (phr v) collaborative work (phr) hectic (adj) exhausting (adj) taxing (adj) undemanding (adj)

Idiom on the go – very busy

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 5

SAMPLE ANSWERS

 You mentioned you have a job. What kind of job is it?

I have a job as a marketing trainee in a company which produces consumer goods. In my job as a marketing trainee, I think of ways to make products our company produces known to the public through innovative advertising techniques.

 Why did you choose this job?

I chose this job because marketing was my major in college, and I wanted to use the skills I learned. In this job, I am able to apply the knowledge I gained in practical setting, and am now getting paid to do what I love.

IELTS SPEAKING

 Is your work easy or not?

I find my work difficult because I can’t always come up with creative ideas on how to market my company’s products. When that happens, I feel stressed and frustrated, so I look for something easier to work on while brainstorming on how to solve the difficulty I face.

 Do you use mainly computers at work?

Yes, computers are used mainly in my work because I often need to research things related to the marketing field. Having computers at work is absolutely essential because I also need to communicate with my co-workers often through the Internet via e-mail, and market products online.

PAGE 6

Part 2 Describe a historical movie you saw.

Describe a historical movie you saw.

You should say

You should say

what is the movie what historical time period is the movie made about who are the main characters how did this movie become successful

Model Answer

what is the movie what historical time period is the movie made about who are the main characters how did this movie achieve success

Your Answer

I would like to tell you about one of the most historically correct and emotionally moving historical movies I have ever seen. The film is set in 1994, during the Rwandan Genocide when over one million people, mainly Tutsi natives, were killed by the Hutus natives.

There are several reasons why I like this movie.

First of all, the movie achieved such a great success because while the violence and gore of the genocide play a disturbing part in the film, the focus lies on the heroism of its protagonist and the strength with which he navigates under seemingly impossible odds.

Second, hotelier Paul is the main character, who acts bravely to save the lives of his family and more than a thousand refugees by sheltering them in a besieged hotel. Last but not least, the movie was nominated for multiple awards, and was listed by the American Film Institute as one of the 100 most inspirational movies of all time. For these reasons, I consider this the most impressive historical movie that has given a strong impact on my life.

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 7

Part 3 Is it necessary to know about the history of one’s motherland?

Should people translate history into movies?

In what ways do people learn about history?

Is it necessary to know about the history of one’s motherland?

It is necessary to know about the history of your own country because it helps you appreciate what you have now. History also increases the feeling of nationalism in a person, and because of what happened in the past, people are able to understand the repercussions of their future actions.

Should people translate history into movies?

People should only make movies about history if the events, people, and times are accurate. I think that by translating history into movies, more people will be able to understand it while being also entertained, but directors must be careful not to sensationalize the facts.

IELTS SPEAKING

In what ways do people learn about history?

People learn mostly about history by reading books, and watching television programs and movies. They learn most of their historical knowledge in schools by listening to lectures and going on educational trips, and from their older relative’s stories.

Extra Questions a) Do you think that watching old movies is a good way to learn history? b) What is the difference in the understanding of history in different age groups? c) Do you think that people in the 1940s and people now have different opinions about history? d) What can we do to make young people more interested in history?

PAGE 8

Topic 3 Part 1

Extra Questions:

ACCOMMODATION OR BUILDING Tell me about the kind of accommodation you live in.

How long have you lived there?

What do you like about living there?

What sort of accommodation would you most like to live in?

a) b) c) d)

What types of accommodations are famous in your country?

What buildings are considered famous in your town?

What are people’s attitudes to old buildings today?

Should they be protected?

Related vocabulary and expressions: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

structural design (n) skyscraper (n) architecture (n) block (n) residence (n) construct (v) renovate (v) well-designed (adj p) unsightly (adj) contemporary (adj)

Idiom put up – build

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 9

SAMPLE ANSWERS  Tell me about the kind of accommodation you live in.

I live in a house that has a living room, a kitchen, two bedrooms, a bathroom, and a small garden. It’s not a very big house, but it’s just right for me.

 How long have you lived there?

I’ve lived there for about five years. It’s the first house that I’ve owned. Before that, I was renting an apartment.

IELTS SPEAKING

 What do you like about living there?

I like living there because I think the house reflects my personality: I decorate it myself, I chose all the furniture, and everything is where I want it to be.

 What sort of accommodation would you most like to live in?

If I could, I’d buy a bigger house near a beach or in the mountains, preferably somewhere with a warm climate.

PAGE 10

Part 2 Describe an educational trip that you went to when you were in school.

Describe an educational trip that you went on where you were in school.

You should say

You should say

where did you go what school subject did the trip study who did you meet there why are the lessons you learned there so important

Model Answer

where did you go what school subject did the trip study who did you meet there why are the lessons you learned there so important

Your Answer

I would like to tell you about one of my educational trips in elementary. I was fortunate enough to go to the zoo.

There are several reasons why I like this trip.

First of all, each group of four students chose an animal to study during the field trip. My group picked the elephant because we had already learned a little bit about them in science class. Second, the pen itself where they lived was 2.4 acres in size and housed seven elephants! There was a big pool in the middle and I remember being surprised to learn that elephants like to swim! Last but not least, I met Temboo, my favorite elephant. She was a large African elephant who was missing half of her ear. I learned that she only likes to go in the pool when it’s raining. Elephants have been such fascinating creatures to me. For these reasons, this trip taught me more about elephants and the importance of protecting them, as they are facing extinction due to poachers.

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 11

Part 3 Is having a teacher around important when you go on an educational trip?

Should teachers be responsible for the safety of the students or should students be responsible for themselves?

What places should students go to for educational field trips?

Is having a teacher around important when you go on an educational trip?

Having a teacher is important when going on educational trips because they guide us in our journey. For example, if there is something that we cannot understand, their knowledge will come in handy, and it is always important to have a responsible adult there for legal purposes.

Should teachers be responsible for the safety of the students or should students be responsible for themselves?

Teachers should be completely responsible for their students at all times, especially when outside the confines of the classroom.

Teachers are trusted to keep their students safe when away from their families, and are therefore liable to the duty of care as stipulated in their teaching contracts.

IELTS SPEAKING

What places should students go for educational field trips?

Museums, ruins, exhibits, galleries, and laboratories are just some examples of places where students can gain information pertinent to their education. In addition, going to historical buildings may allow students to gain a sense of nationalism and cultural identity, and are a welcome break from the monotony of the classroom setting.

Extra Questions a) Do you think educational trips should be required in schools? b) What are some alternative ways of learning? c) What are the advantages of going on educational trips compared to not going? d) Do you think that the cost of these trips should be paid over and above tuition fees?

PAGE 12

Topic 4 Extra Questions: Part 1 BICYCLE Do you know how to ride a bicycle? When did you learn to ride one?

What are the benefits of riding bicycles?

Is it good for children to ride bicycles?

Is it safe to ride bicycles?

a) b) c) d) e) f)

Are bicycles popular in your country?

Why are there so many people who ride bicycles in your country?

Have you ever taught anyone how to ride a bicycle?

Do you know any tricks or moves using bicycles?

Do you still remember the first time you rode a bicycle?

Is it convenient to ride bicycles for a long journey?

Related vocabulary and expressions 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

mountain bike (n) biking (n) bike-riding (n) pedal (v) slow down (phr v) speed up (phr v) invigorating (adj) energetic (adj) stay fit (phr) environmentally-friendly (adj)

Idiom in good shape – have a healthy body

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 13

SAMPLE ANSWERS  Do you know how to ride a bicycle? When did you learn to ride one?

Yes, I know how to ride a bicycle quite well, since I learned to ride one when I was five. I ride my bicycle almost every day when I have to go somewhere that’s near my house, and also use it to increase my cardiovascular exercise.

 What are the benefits of riding bicycles?

I think that the benefits of riding bicycles include improving our endurance and developing the strength of our legs. These benefits are especially apparent if we ride for a long time, and cycling can also help people who want to lose weight or lower their blood pressure.

IELTS SPEAKING

 Is it good for children to ride bicycles?

It is good for children to know how to ride bicycles because it has a lot of benefits to them. Children will be healthier when they grow up and gain increased motor skills because biking is good for helping a person’s physical development.

 Is it safe to ride bicycles?

I think that it is safe to ride bicycles, but this depends on the person who is using the bike. If a person is careful when steering their bicycle and if they wear protective gear, riding a bicycle is a relatively safe activity that anyone can enjoy.

PAGE 14

Part 2 Describe a library (a university one or a public one) you know or have been to.

Describe a library (a university one or a public one) you know or have been to.

You should say where is it what does it look like is the location of the library good or bad why is the library a good one

You should say where is it what does it look like is the location of the library good or bad why is the library a good one

Model Answer

Your Answer

I would like to tell you about one of the leading libraries in the world.

The New York Public Library is one of the most significant research libraries in the United States.

There are several reasons why I like it.

First of all, its design was at one time the largest marble structure in the United States. Two famous stone lions guard the entrance, sculpted by Edward Clark Potter.

Second, the main reading room is lined with thousands of reference books on open shelves along the floor level and along the balcony. There is a wide range of references to choose from.

Last but not least, the location is central and perfect for tourists to visit and locals to see. The library is renowned for having frequently appeared in Hollywood feature films, such as Spider-Man, Breakfast at Tiffany’s, and Sex and the City.

For these reasons, this makes it a great place for people to enjoy.

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 15

Part 3 What kind of resources do libraries provide people with?

What challenges does modern technology pose to libraries?

Is it necessary for the government to provide people with free library use?

What kind of resources do libraries provide people with?

Libraries offer different kinds of resources like newspapers, magazines, research paper, maps, and even some documentary films. Of course, the vast majority of resources available are a wide range of books with varying topics housed inside which are very handy.

What challenges does modern technology pose to libraries?

Nowadays, the Internet is a more convenient source of information for people which challenges the importance of libraries. Unlike libraries, surfing the Internet is free and people do not have to leave their homes to do their research, so many libraries face budget cuts and scrutiny over their relevance.

IELTS SPEAKING

Is it necessary for the government to provide people with free library use?

Yes, I think that governments should provide people with free libraries because it is a way to attract them to use it. If people were charged, many would avoid frequenting libraries and use the Internet instead as their primary research source, which would force libraries to close their doors permanently.

Extra Questions a) How can you compare the resources found in libraries to those on the Internet? b) Why don’t some people like using libraries? c) How can you encourage more people to use libraries? d) Should children go to libraries often?

PAGE 16

Topic 5 Extra Questions:

Part 1 FRIENDS Do you often go out with friends?

What do you usually do when you go out with your friends?

Do you like to go out with a lot of friends or just 1 or 2 of them?

Where do you prefer to hang out with them?

a) b) c) d) e) f)

Do you like to spend more time with your family or your friends?

Do you want to meet friends more often in the future?

Do you invite friends to your place or go out with them?

What kinds of people make friends easily?

Do you like making friends with the opposite gender?

Why do people have friends?

Related vocabulary and expressions 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

companion (n) acquaintance (n) best-buddy (US) / best-mate (UK) (n) sibling (n) shared interests (n) get together (phr v) hang out with (phr v) socialize (v) extrovert (n) introvert (n)

Idiom own flesh and blood – family, relative

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 17

SAMPLE ANSWERS  Do you often go out with friends?

I don’t often go out with my friends nowadays because I am busy with my family. When we were still in school, we would all go out twice a week, but we’re all busy with work now and so we rarely have time off.

 Do you like to go out with a lot of friends or just 1 or 2 of

them?

I would have to say that hanging out with just one or two of my friends is convenient to some extent since we can strengthen our friendship; however, it is not my style since I love being in a crowd.

 What do you usually do when you go out with your friends?

When I go out with my friends, we usually eat out to restaurants together to try out new cuisines. In addition to eating out, we also like to go out shopping for clothes together and catching up over coffee.

IELTS SPEAKING

 Where do you prefer to hang out with them?

I prefer hanging out with my friends in one of our houses since it is more comfortable and relaxing that way. More than going out to restaurants or pubs, I like it when we just stay at someone’s house and talk with each other.

PAGE 18

Part 2 Describe an activity or game you enjoyed when you were a child (not a sport).

Describe an activity or game you enjoyed when you were a child (not a sport).

You should say what was it who did you enjoy it with where did you play it why do people enjoy playing (with) it

You should say what was it who did you enjoy it with where did you play it why do people enjoy playing (with) it

Model Answer

Your Answer

I would like to tell you about building Lego blocks, which I loved playing when I was a child.

There are several reasons why.

First of all, it has plenty of pieces in primary colors that allows you to use your imagination to build anything, from a simple wall to a fortress. My brother and I created so many projects, including a pirate ship and a space shuttle.

Second, Legos are toys that every parent can afford. Unlike before, parents can now spend a lot of money.

Last but not least, with the thousands of different sets available, children can continue to dream up elaborate structures and become young artists and engineers every day.

For these reasons, although I had a lot of toys, playing such kind of game had several benefits.

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 19

Part 3 What can children learn from playing in groups?

What can you learn from playing games?

Do you prefer doing activities on your own or with a group?

Do you prefer doing activities on your own or with a group?

Most of the time, I prefer doing things on my own because I feel like I don’t need other people in order to enjoy myself. I feel like no one understands what I want to do better than myself, and even when I try to work in teams or with a partner, I end up frustrated.

What can children learn from playing in groups?

Children can learn the value of working in teams if they are in a group. They can also learn how to relate to different kinds of people and befriend them, since the ability to form relationships with other people is a very important skill.

Extra Questions a) What can children learn through play? b) How does it feel to be an activity leader? c) What can teenagers learn from groups? d) What kind of responsibilities do children need to bear? Why? What can you learn from playing games?

Learning good sportsmanship is an excellent lesson one can learn after losing during games. People also learn how to play fairly during games which is crucial as games lose the fun in them when people resort to cheating.

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 20

Topic 6 Extra Questions:

Part 1 SPORTS Are there too many sports programs on TV? What kinds of sports are dangerous?

Why do some people like extreme sports?

Do women like sports?

a) b) c) d) e) f)

What kind of sports facilities are near your house?

Is basketball popular in your country?

What effects do sports have on children?

Do students in schools need sports?

Is there a gymnasium near your home?

What sports should children get into while they are young?

Related vocabulary and expressions 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

team game (n) spectator (n) compete (v) challenge (n) keep fit (n) lose weight (phr) stay healthy (phr) strenuous (adj) energizing (adj) revitalizing (adj)

Idiom to get in shape – to become fit

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 21

SAMPLE ANSWERS  Are there too many sports programs on TV? No, in fact, I think there could be more TV sports programs since I can never get enough of them! I love watching sports, but during primetime, I find that my favorite sports shows are pushed aside to make way for airing boring soap operas

 What kinds of sports are dangerous?

Dangerous sports are those that have contestants in direct physical contact with each other. Examples of these include boxing, mixed martial arts, and other sports that require fighting each other in front of an audience crying out for blood.

IELTS SPEAKING

 Why do some people like extreme sports?

I think that some people like extreme sports because they are natural thrill-seekers who like to take on new challenges. Many people just want to test their full ability, or feel the surge of adrenaline, so they participate in extreme sports despite the danger.

 Do women like sports?

Yes and no, I think that there are some women who like sports and there are some who don’t. I can’t generalize on this because one woman’s preference is different from another’s, and it is dangerous to speak on behalf of the entire gender.

PAGE 22

Part 2 Describe a piece of good news you got through the phone.

Describe a piece of good news you got through the phone.

You should say

You should say

who called you where you were at that time what was the news how did the news make you feel

Model Answer

who called you where you were at that time what was the news how did the news make you feel

Your Answer

I would like to tell you about a good news which I received through a phone call.

Three years ago, my daughter Mandy gave me some fantastic news. I remember that day clearly.

There are several reasons why that news was good.

First of all, it was a sunny Wednesday, and I had just returned home from work and had sat down on my chesterfield in the living room.

It was then that I heard on the evening news program that a strong 8.0 magnitude earthquake had hit Peru. I panicked since I knew that my daughter was living just southeast of Lima. When the phone rang, I answered it in tears, not expecting to hear very good news. It was my daughter. She was alive and well! Second, she proceeded to tell me that she had flown out of Peru that morning, narrowly escaping the earthquake’s wrath. Last but not least, the news that my daughter was safe made me feel an overwhelming sense of relief. For these reasons, I consider this one of the news that made me feel good.

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 23

Part 3 Between e-mails and phones, which is more popular nowadays?

Why? Which do you prefer, phone calls or e-mails? Why? How does modern technology change the way people work?

Between e-mails and phones, which is more popular nowadays? Why? E-mails are more popular nowadays because they are more convenient for sending and receiving messages than by phone. A lot of people around the world now have computers and Internet connections, making communication easier and less expensive when used via e-mail.

Which do you prefer, phone calls or e-mails? Why? I personally prefer e-mails over phone calls because it saves me time and effort when sending messages to my friends. Most people I know use e-mail more often so I like to go with the flow and follow this trend, unless I have something important or lengthy to say.

IELTS SPEAKING

How does modern technology change the way people work?

Modern technology has definitely made the transfer of information from person to person at work easier. Work is also becoming more effective and error-free because of advanced technology, whether it is through teleconferencing to eliminate cultural misunderstandings or through using spell check on the computer.

Extra Questions a) What are the similarities and differences between e-mails and text messages? b) What are the advantages and disadvantages of such forms of communication? c) How different, in your opinion, would be the means of communication in the future? d) Will handwritten letters disappear?

PAGE 24

Topic 7 Extra Questions:

Part 1 TRAVEL Do you like traveling? Why or why not?

Why do you travel?

What do you find interesting about traveling?

What is your favorite place to go to?

a) b) c) d) e) f) g)

Are there any places that you want to visit?

Which cities would you like to visit?

Which place is the most impressive to you?

What mode of transportation do you use when traveling?

Would you mind traveling alone?

Where is the farthest place you have gone to?

What are the benefits of traveling?

Related vocabulary and expressions 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

package tour (n) independent travel (n) tourism (n) sightseeing (n) go backpacking (v) go sightseeing (v) luxurious (adj) exclusive (adj) overdeveloped (adj) underdeveloped (adj)

Idiom see the sights – visit famous places

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 25

SAMPLE ANSWERS  Do you like travelling?

Yes, I like traveling a lot, and I go to different places as much as I can. I really like knowing and learning about the sights and cultures of different places in the world, and have been to India and Germany more recently.

 Why do you travel?

I travel because I want to see the world with my own eyes and not just through pictures in books and magazines. I want to explore and learn about new things on my own, especially about local cuisine, since I love cooking traditional foods and entertaining at home.

IELTS SPEAKING

 What do you find interesting about traveling?

For me, I find the experiences I get when I go to different places the most interesting part of travelling. Specifically, the people I meet and the thrill of going somewhere I am not familiar with are very interesting facets of travel, and when I create lasting memories doing it.

 What is your favorite place to go to?

My favorite places to go to include places that are quiet and calm, like the countryside. In addition to the countryside, I also like going to places with beautiful sceneries like the beach because it helps me feel relaxed.

PAGE 26

Part 2 Describe an exciting sport.

Describe an exciting sport.

You should say

You should say

what is it where can you watch it who is your favorite athlete in it why is it so exciting

Model Answer

what is it where can you watch it who is your favorite athlete in it why is it so exciting

Your Answer

I would like to tell you about an exciting sport.

There are lots of exciting sports out there but when I think of an exciting sport the first sport that comes to my head is swimming.

There are several reasons why.

First of all, it is very exciting because you are competing with time.

This sport is usually played in an arena with pool but it also can be an outdoor pool. Second, there are many competitions that take place nationally or internationally but the competition among all the best swimmers gather in the Olympics. It is interesting to witness such kind of events. Last but not least, the swimmer that I was very impressed with in the recent Olympics was Park Tae Wan who played for the Korean national swimming team. He is the first Asian swimmer to win a gold medal in the Men’s 400 meter freestyle event.

For these reasons, swimming is a very physically demanding sport which makes the sport more exciting to watch and cheer for your home country.

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 27

Part 3 Why do people like dangerous sports?

Do you think everybody should do sports?

Do you think that some parents are too involved in their children’s sports?

Why do people like dangerous sports?

I would never participate in dangerous sports, but I understand why people do. People who participate in dangerous sports do so for the love of the game, to challenge their abilities and potential, or to experience the thrill of the danger involved.

Do you think some parents are too involved in their children’s sports?

Yes, I think that many parents are the prime culprits in promoting a competition-crazed environment in youth sports. I admit that many parents are a positive force, supporting their children and making sports participation possible, but it is unfortunate that some bad parents ruin it.

Do you think everybody should do sports?

Yes, sport is something all people should embrace, and I think everyone should at least try sports. For individuals, doing sports contributes to the maintenance and improvement of health, provides a wholesome leisure-time, and enables people to develop a sense of fair play.

IELTS SPEAKING

Extra Questions a) Which sport would you not let your child play? Why? b) What dangerous sports should be forbidden? c) Do men have an advantage competing against women in sports? d) Why do certain countries popularize different sports more than other countries?

PAGE 28

Topic 8 Part 1

Extra Questions: DAILY ROUTINE At what time do you usually get up?

What is the first thing you do when you get up in the morning?

What time of the day do you like the best? Is there any change in the time you liked when you were a child?

What daily habits do you have?

a) b) c) d) e)

How have your habits changed from the past until now?

What is the last thing you do before you sleep at night?

How does your current daily routine differ from your old one?

Where do you spend most of your time?

Why do you have that routine?

Related vocabulary and expressions 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

habit (n) agenda (n) routine (n) flexible (adj) habitual (adj) fixed schedule (phr) get out of bed (phr) retire – go to bed (v) later than usual (phr) earlier than normal (phr)

Idiom get into the swing of – get used to

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 29

SAMPLE ANSWERS  At what time do you usually get up?

On Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, I wake up at 5:30 a.m. to go to boot camp cardio classes at 6 a.m. This is very early and requires much planning and dedication, so I enjoy it on the weekends instead when I don’t have to wake up so early.

 What is the first thing you do when you get up in the morning?

The first thing that I do after getting up in the morning is head straight to the bathroom and brush my teeth. It might seem silly since I drink coffee afterward which removes my fresh breath, but I can’t handle having the unpleasant smell of morning breath.

IELTS SPEAKING

 What time of the day do you like the best? Is there any change in the time you liked when you were a child?

My favorite time of the day is lunch time, because I find that I get a sudden burst of energy around noon. I don’t think this has changed since I was a child, as it came from the excitement I felt when the lunch bell rang in school.

 What daily habits do you have?

One daily habit I have is that I always watch the 7:00 news on TV while I eat dinner. In addition to this, I also have a habit of doing the dishes immediately after dinner since it has always been a chore I’ve performed regularly.

PAGE 30

Part 2 Describe a film you watched at home or in the cinema.

Describe a film you watched at home or in the cinema.

You should say

You should say

what was the film called when did you see it why did you enjoy watching it what kind of movies do people like

Model Answer

what was the film called when did you see it why did you enjoy watching it what kind of movies do people like

Your Answer

I would like to tell you about a movie I saw in the cinema.

Avatar 3D was one of the most impressive movies that I saw this year. There are several reasons why.

First of all, it was the first movie that I saw in 3D. I could not believe how real and exciting I felt when I was in the theater. I didn’t know what to expect at first but when the first scene came on I knew it was going to be a great movie.

Second, I decided to go see the movie because I heard good reviews about it and I knew the actor who played the main character.

Last but not least, it is not just the characters that I was excited about; I was also excited about the story line. The story is very moving and relevant to the events happening around the world.

For these reasons, I enjoyed it very much.

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 31

Part 3 What is the worst movie you have ever seen?

Which actor or actress do you think is the most overrated in Hollywood today?

How have TV, cable, and the Internet changed the movie industry?

How have TV, cable, and the Internet changed the movie industry?

What is the worst movie you have ever seen?

The worst movie ever is Batman and Robin, and the fact that my date forgot his wallet made it even worse. This film is often called as the worst superhero movie of all time. Actor George Clooney said he would refund people’s money who paid to see it.

Which actor or actress do you think is the most overrated in Hollywood today?

Keanu Reeves has to be the most incompetent actor I have ever watched. The Matrix trilogy’s plot made up for his deficiencies, but I think that he should either take acting lessons or star in silent movies only.

IELTS SPEAKING

I think that TV, cable, and the Internet have forced the movie industry to step up its game. Going to the movies has always been my favourite form of entertainment; however, with the birth of home technology such as television and the Internet, many people today choose to stay home.

Extra Questions a) Do you think that films can be educational? b) Why is censorship important to be enforced? c) Do you think a movie has to be expensive to make to become a blockbuster? d) Are movie stars worth the millions of dollars they are paid?

PAGE 32

Topic 9 Extra Questions:

Part 1 HOUSE What is your flat or house like?

What is your favorite room?

What can you see outside of your window?

Which part of your house do you want to improve and how?

a) b) c) d) e) f) g)

Since when have you lived there?

What makes your house an interesting place to visit?

What do you think about the city you live in now?

Do you like to live by the sea?

If you can redesign your home, what would you do?

What do you feel when arriving home after a day at school/work?

Do you like coming home to your house?

Related vocabulary and expressions 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

winding street (phr) the locals (n) residential area (phr) apartment complex (phr) estate (n) capital (n) suburb (n) district (n) provincial (adj) industrial (adj)

Idiom run down – in bad condition

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 33

SAMPLE ANSWERS  What is your flat or house like?

My flat is small and very cozy, with only about 400 square feet of living space. I live alone, so the space is perfect for me, even though a living area, a bathroom, a kitchen and a dining space all fit into one room.

 What is your favorite room?

My favorite room is the bathroom because I like taking baths in my brand new Jacuzzi. I have different soaps and shampoos, and I often take my time in there because warm baths really help me relax and feel pampered.

IELTS SPEAKING

 What can you see outside of your window?

I can see other apartment buildings in the neighborhood when I look outside of my window. Since I live on the 22nd floor of a high rise building, the cars and people below my window look just like little ants scurrying around on miniature streets.

 Which part of your house do you want to improve and how?

I want to improve my house by having more kitchen space because I love cooking. Next week, some friends of mine will help me move some things in the kitchen that aren’t being used into a spare room to create more space.

PAGE 34

Part 2 Describe a person who helped you a lot.

Describe a person who helped you a lot.

You should say

You should say

what was the situation when did the situation occur who was he or she how did the person help you

Model Answer

what was the situation when did the situation occur who was he or she how did the person help you

Your Answer

I would like to tell you about my colleagues who helped me in my time of need. I became seriously ill three years ago, and after three hospital stays, including two surgeries, I was in a critical condition.

There are several reasons why they offered to assist me.

First of all, I had used up all my vacation and sick leaves at work and was broke. It was the end of the year and my last paycheque at the first of December was approximately 10 percent of its usual amount. Second, I am married and have two daughters who at that time were 8 and 5. My wife, who is a schoolteacher, was just barely keeping things together. Last but not least, it was before Christmas and somehow our situation dampened the festive mood. On the day before Christmas, I received a paycheque. When I opened it, there was a full pay period on it. It seems that all my colleagues had gotten together and donated any vacation that they had left for the year so I could get paid. For these reasons, my co-workers helped me give Christmas to my family.

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 35

Part 3 Do you often ask your parents or friends for help?

What is the difference between the current ways we care for the elderly and care in the past?

Should very rich people “give back” to those who are less fortunate?

Do you often ask your parents or friends for help?

Yes, I always ask my friends and family for advice because they are the most important people in my life. I know that they aren’t judgmental and their advice has always my best interest at heart, so I know that what they have to say will help me.

What is the difference between the current ways we care for the elderly and care in the past?

Traditionally, elder care has been the responsibility of family members and was provided within the extended family home.

Increasingly in modern societies, elderly care is now being provided by the government or charitable institutions, which causes many people to question whether this is virtuous or not.

IELTS SPEAKING

Should very rich people “give back” to those who are less fortunate?

Yes, I do think that they should give back to the society through which they obtained their wealth. Although they worked hard to achieve the wealth and status they were afforded, life always has a way of changing tides. Help given will be, in my opinion, given back one way or another in the future.

Extra Questions a) When natural disasters occur, are people more likely to help their neighbors? b) Where should people volunteer in their spare time? c) In what situations do young people need help? d) Do you feel pressured to donate money to organizations?

PAGE 36

Topic 10 Extra Questions:

Part 1 READING Do you like reading newspapers?

How much time do you spend reading the newspaper?

When did you begin reading newspapers?

Do you prefer to read local news or international news?

Related vocabulary words and expressions 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

a) b) c) d) e)

What books are not suitable for children?

Do you think children should be guided in reading newspapers?

What newspaper sections do you usually read?

Do you know about e-books?

What are the advantages and disadvantages of e-books over newspaper? f) What literary works do you usually read? g) Who are your favorite authors? h) Has a book ever made you cry or laugh out loud?

biography (n) literature (n) poetry (n) fictional (adj) contemporary / classical (adj) scan (v) browse (v) best-seller (n) a work of fiction (phr) flip through (phr v)

Idiom read up on – read about

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 37

SAMPLE ANSWERS  Do you like reading newspapers?

Yes, I like reading newspapers a lot, and I read them, in the morning every day. I like knowing about the latest happenings in my country and in the world before I go to work each day because it is important to be well-informed.

 How much time do you spend reading the newspaper?

On an average day, it takes me about an hour to read a newspaper from cover to cover. If I’m in a hurry, I usually spend about 10 minutes in the morning skimming through the different headlines, but I always finish reading it when I have more time.

IELTS SPEAKING

 When did you begin reading newspapers?

I began reading newspapers when I was around 10 years old, at a fairly common age I believe. My mother told me then that I should be aware of what goes on in the world, and despite my disinterest, passed me The Daily Telegraph.

 Do you prefer to read local news or international news?

I prefer reading the local news more than the international news stories. I think that I should be aware of what goes on in my local surroundings first before knowing the happenings in other countries because I consider the community first and foremost.

PAGE 38

Part 2 Describe a picnic or meal that you ate outdoors.

Describe a picnic or meal that you ate outdoors.

You should say

You should say

where did you go what was the occasion what did you eat and drink why do you enjoy picnicking

Model Answer You should say

where did you go what was the occasion what did you eat and drink why do you enjoy picnicking

Your Answer

I would like to tell you about one of the recent picnics that I had which was when I went to Madison Grand Park. There are several reasons why I enjoyed this particular picnic.

First of all, the park is located close to my house. It was my younger brother’s birthday and our family decided to go to the park because he enjoys spending time outdoors. Second, we decided to have a barbeque. My brother preferred barbeque because he doesn’t like birthday cakes, and barbeque parties are better at bringing family members and friends together. There are more activities that we can do by having outdoor parties. Last but not least, Madison Grand Park made this occasion special because this was the park where my brother and I grew up riding our bikes and played sports.

After we had eaten food, we walked on the bike trail to reminisce about the good old days.

For these reasons, we really enjoyed our barbeque party because of the good memories we had there as children.

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 39

Part 3 What are the differences between eating at a restaurant and having a picnic?

Whose diet is healthier? Modern people or people in the past?

Why are so many unhealthy food options available in today’s diet?

What are the differences between eating at a restaurant and having a picnic?

Eating at a restaurant is often expensive and more formal than having a picnic, but you are catered to. Having a picnic does require more preparation work, but the ambiance is beautiful and the mood is much more casual than the formality of eating in a restaurant.

Whose diet is healthier? Modern people or people in the past?

It’s not the food of the past that’s healthier, but the quantity eaten today that makes modern diets unhealthy! Over the past few decades, people face the biggest temptation to eat fast food late at day and night.

IELTS SPEAKING

Why are so many unhealthy food options available in today’s diet?

There are many healthy options available today too, but unfortunately, globalization has increased the amount of food options in our stores. With more good and bad temptations available, our healthy options get buried amongst all of the tempting calorie-laden, sugary, and carbohydrate-filled unhealthy options.

Extra Questions a) How can our government educate people about healthy eating? b) Why is eating together with one’s family important? c) How have our eating habits changed? d) How do you think will food options be in the future?

PAGE 40

Topic 11 Extra Questions:

Part 1 HOLIDAYS Do you think it’s important to have a vacation? Why? When is it best to take a vacation?

What do you hate/like to do on a vacation? Why? What is your favourite holiday?

a) b) c) d) e)

Do you like weekends more than weekdays?

Do you like spending your holidays with your family?

Would you rather work on your holidays?

Do you think holidays are necessary?

What are the benefits of having holidays?

Related vocabulary words and expressions 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

destination (n) breathtaking (adj) package holiday (phr) far-off destination (phr) guided tour (phr) long weekend (phr) places of interest (phr) short break (phr) go sightseeing (phr) hordes of tourists (phr)

Idiom cost an arm and a leg – cost a lot of money

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 41

SAMPLE ANSWERS  Do you think it is important to have a vacation?

Yes, I think vacations are important because they help a person relax and clear their mind. A person has to recharge his energy and spirit after all, and spending time away from work is the best way to do this.

 When is it best to take a vacation?

It is best to go on vacation in the summer because there are many activities to enjoy. For example, you can go to the beach to relax with your family and friends, visit water parks and zoos to enjoy the great outdoors.

IELTS SPEAKING

 What do you hate/like to do on a vacation? Why? When I am on vacation, doing physical activities are not my favorite thing to do. I prefer relaxing while on vacation, sitting by the pool or reading a book in the park because I think the purpose of going on vacation is to unwind.

 What is your favorite holiday?

My favorite holiday is Christmas because I like the festive atmosphere, the cooking and the presents. I also love it because it is during the winter, and having a white, snowy Christmas while sitting around the fireplace with family and friends is always an enjoyable occasion.

PAGE 42

Part 2 Describe a recent event which made you feel happy.

Describe a recent event which made you feel happy.

You should say when was the event celebrated who were with you what did you do to celebrate it why were you so happy

You should say when was the event celebrated who were with you what did you do to celebrate it why were you so happy

Model Answer

Your Answer

I would like to tell you about one of the events in my life that made me happy which was celebrating a year of working out. There are several reasons why it made me feel so.

First of all, I had several attempts in losing my weight but failed due to lack of discipline. Although it seemed impossible to the point of almost giving up, I was determined to shed this fat off and was finally able to do so.

Second, many of my friends supported me in this battle. They would try to match their diet with mine and eat tasteless food just to discipline me in my desire to lose weight.

Last but not least, I was 65Kg, my highest weight ever, due to a lazy college lifestyle. After a year of regular fitness classes and struggle with food, I finally weigh 55 Kilograms, nearly a 10Kg-loss when I checked my weight last week.

For these reasons, I was so proud and happy of my accomplishment because I had worked hard while being motivated by my supportive friends. Hence, we decided to throw a party.

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 43

Part 3 What special events are celebrated in your community?

Can money buy happiness?

What makes a great party?

What special events are celebrated in your community?

There are few special events that happen in London throughout the year, but there is one event that everybody loves and that is the World Cup. Every four years when the World Cup happens, almost everybody gathers around Manchester Square and watches the events together as it’s very special.

What makes a great party?

A great party consists of music, food, and of course friends. It definitely needs good music that everyone could relate to and enjoy. It doesn’t really matter what kind of food, but food should always be good. It doesn’t have to be your friends but it would be nice to have friendly people around you. Those three elements would make a great party.

Can money buy happiness?

For those at the lower end of the income scale, I think that money probably can buy happiness. This might be true because having some money is definitely better than having no money at all, but beyond our basic needs though, money isn’t as important.

IELTS SPEAKING

Extra Questions a) How has what makes people happy changed over the past ten years? b) What are the advantages and disadvantages of special events in communities? c) Why do some people prefer to spend a lot of money on parties? d) How will parties be celebrated in the future?

PAGE 44

Topic 12 Extra Questions:

Part 1 THE INTERNET Do you like using the internet? Why or why not?

How has the internet changed your life?

What are the advantages of using the Internet?

What are the disadvantages?

a) b) c) d) e) f) g) h)

Do you like online gaming?

Do you use social networking sites like Facebook and Twitter?

What are the usual websites you visit?

How many hours a day do you spend surfing the Internet?

What is your main purpose for using the Internet?

Do you think people can survive without the Internet?

Do you think it’s all right to talk to strangers online?

What do you think about sharing personal information on the Internet?

Related vocabulary words and expressions 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

application (n) website (n) crash (v) browse (v) download (v) access (v) social media (phr) computer buff (phr) wi-fi hotspots (phr) go online (phr)

Idiom surf the web/net – visit a website

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 45

SAMPLE ANSWERS  Do you like using the Internet? Why or why not?

I like using the Internet a lot, and I go online immediately after I get home from school. I even use it on the weekends for recreational purposes, playing games online, or looking up recipes or craft ideas rather than for school reasons.

 How has the Internet changed your life?

The Internet definitely changed my life by making it easier for a lot of reasons. It is very useful for doing school work, and it helps me connect easily with friends and family who live far away for free.

IELTS SPEAKING

 What are the advantages of using the Internet?

The advantages of the Internet includes it being a fast and effective way of gathering information, and it is free. It also helps me complete my school work on time and allows me to communicate with anyone in the world as long as they are also connected.

 What are the disadvantages?

The disadvantages of using the internet are not all internet resources are true or have accurate information. The Internet also encourages people to be somewhat lazy making them so much dependent on using it in their daily lives for communication, work, and research.

PAGE 46

Part 2 Describe a science lesson that you learned in school (e.g. biology, chemistry, or physics)

Describe a science lesson that you learned in school (e.g. biology, chemistry or physics)

You should say

You should say

what did you know before the lesson when did you learn it who taught it to you how did your knowledge change

Model Answer

what did you know before the lesson when did you learn it who taught it to you how did your knowledge change

Your Answer

I would like to tell you about Physics.

There are several reasons why I remember this lesson.

First of all, before I took science lessons, I thought that I knew everything about the physics behind space exploration. I was a good student, so when I was asked in class to explain what vibration was, I answered that vibration is a motion that cannot control which way it wants to go. I obviously did not have a good understanding of science in grade 4!

Second, I met a very good teacher who explained the subject well.

It was not difficult for students to understand theories. Thanks to his simplified explanation.

Last but not least, I learned a lot of interesting ideas in that class that changed everything I knew. I guess you can’t believe everything you hear on TV! Who knew elementary physics would change the faith I had in television.

For these reasons, I had a better understanding about the subject.

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 47

Part 3 What age is appropriate to begin learning science?

Do you think boys have the advantage in studying science compared to girls?

Do you think nations should share their own scientific research achievements?

What age is appropriate to begin learning science?

Children begin learning science on their own from the moment they’re born, and I think it is appropriate. Parents don’t need degrees in chemistry or physics to help their children learn science, just a willingness to nurture their curiosity, and this should be nurtured as early as possible.

Do you think nations should share their own scientific research achievements?

Nations should be required to share scientific research and new innovations which pertain to the planet as a whole. By working cooperatively, modern science can prevent ecological hardships like global warming and cure diseases, and sharing scientific research is a neighborly thing to do.

Do you think boys have the advantage in studying science compared to girls?

No evidence exists supporting the claim that boys have greater intrinsic aptitude for science. Statistics show that more women work in science than men, so girls likely have the advantage in studying science due to equal opportunity employment incentives.

IELTS SPEAKING

Extra Questions a) When can science be dangerous? b) Why do you think is science a mandatory course in schools? c) Can everything be explained by science? d) Is science a popular subject to study today?

PAGE 48

Topic 13 Extra Questions: Part 1 MUSEUM & GALLERY Do you often visit museums or art galleries?

Do you think that schools should organize student visits to museums?

What is the function of museums or art galleries?

Do you think visits to museums should be free of charge?

a) b) c) d) e) f) g)

What is the best thing you’ve seen during a museum/gallery visit?

Do you think virtual museums are better than actual museums?

What are the benefits of going to a museum?

Why do you think there are still museums nowadays?

Is there a museum in your hometown?

Do you think museums are a waste of government budget?

Should museums be regarded as national treasures?

Related vocabulary words and expressions 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

artifact (n) fossil (n) rare (adj) prehistoric (adj) antique (n) exhibit (n) Natural History Museum (phr) themed museum (phr) put on display (phr) put on a show (phr)

Idiom on view – on display

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 49

SAMPLE ANSWERS  Do you often visit museums or art galleries?

No, I don’t visit museums and galleries often since I only go during school educational trips. I rarely have time to visit them outside of school, and making time to visit galleries and museums is difficult with my busy schedule.

 Do you think that schools should organize student visits to museums?

Yes, schools should organize trips to museums since most children today do not know about their history. By visiting museums with their classmates, students will retain the historical information presented better than they might have from reading textbooks in an ordinary classroom setting.

IELTS SPEAKING

 What is the function of museums or art galleries?

I think that the function of museums and art galleries is to showcase our country’s history. Museums and galleries are our nation’s memory bank, and by displaying artifacts and exhibits of local cultures and traditions, they help keep our history alive.

 Do you think visits to museums should be free of charge?

No, rather than being free of charge, I think that museums should have minimal entrance fees. In addition to government funds, admission fees might increase the quality of the exhibits, pay for maintenance, and ensure the longevity of the museum during hard economic times.

PAGE 50

Part 2 Describe a small business you want to own

Describe a small business you want to own

You should say

You should say

what kind of company would it be what do you need to do in order to start it why did you chose this business as your ideal career who would be your market

Model Answer

what kind of company would it be what do you need to do in order to start it why did you chose this business as your ideal career who would be your market

Your Answer

I would like to tell you about a small business related to holiday décor.

There are several reasons why this has taken my interest.

First of all, Americans are obsessed with holidays and seem to be fanatical in outdoing each other in their decorations.

Second, it’s an ideal career because it’s fun and there’s no other competition in the market! I think that with a little creativity, this business could be expanded to a year-round venture. Market-wise, I’d target the people who own homes or businesses but are just too busy to spend any time decorating their premises for the holiday.

Last but not least, I want to show my talents in great holiday designs that I can put in an album, portfolio, or even on websites.

For these reasons, although there are a lot of interesting business prospects, holiday décor seems most feasible to me.

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 51

Part 3 Why do many small businesses fail within the first five years?

What type of people would you like to hire?

What skills do you need to run a company?

Why do many small businesses fail within the first five years?

Many small businesses fail for multiple reasons including the products they sell not fulfilling a need in the marketplace. In addition to this, the owner not having the capital to see the business through tough times, poor management, and poor location may also contribute to failure.

What type of people would you like to hire?

If I had my own business, I would be sure to hire people who are trustworthy first and foremost. After, I would base my hiring practices on willingness to work hard, agreeableness, intelligence, and availability, since these are qualities of a hard-working employee.

IELTS SPEAKING

What skills do you need to run a company?

To run a company, entrepreneurs need to understand the market and be willing to embrace change. Successful entrepreneurs are also optimistic about the projects they undertake, and are good at motivating others, and sharing their enthusiasm when pursuing goals.

Extra Questions a) What type of business would be successful online? b) Where is the best place to work – at home or in an office? c) What changes can we see in the way companies attract customers in the past and now? d) How has work conditions changed over the years?

PAGE 52

Topic 14 Extra Questions: Part 1 SHOPPING Who do you like to go shopping with?

Do you like big shopping malls or small stores? Why? What do you usually shop for?

At what time of the day do you like to go shopping and why?

a) b) c) d) e) f) g)

Do you like shopping alone or with other people?

Do you think shopping is necessary?

What do you think about people who go shopping every day?

Do you go shopping every day?

What are the things you buy most often when shopping?

Why do more girls like to shop than boys?

Do you think boys enjoy shopping?

Related vocabulary words and expressions 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

chain (n) luxury (adj) essential (adj) inexpensive (adj) pricey (adj) classy (adj) genuine (adj) purchase (v) market stall (phr) independent retailer (phr)

Idiom shopping spree – enjoy shopping and spend money

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 53

SAMPLE ANSWERS  Who do you like to go shopping with?

I like to go shopping with my female friends because we all know what looks good on each of us. I often ask their opinion on something that I want before buying it, especially when it comes to dresses, tops and pants, because it is hard to see yourself from all angles.

 Do you like big shopping malls or small stores? Why? I like big shopping malls better than small stores because I have a variety to choose from. I really like shopping so I don’t mind spending a lot of time perusing in a mall, but I know many other people that would be happy to make the experience as fast as possible.

IELTS SPEAKING

 What do you usually shop for?

I usually shop for clothes and shoes when I go to malls, since there are many styles to choose from there. Specifically, I like buying jumpers, trousers, and cardigans in bright colors, and for shoes, I often buy heels and ballerina flats.

 At what time of the day do you like to go shopping and why?

I usually go to malls in the morning since there aren’t a lot of people there at that time. It’s more convenient to shop in a store where there are only a few customers since nobody enjoys having to wait in long lineups for the change or the cashier.

PAGE 54

Part 2 Describe a winner in a competition.

Describe a winner in a competition.

You should say

You should say

who was this person what competition did they win where and when was the completion held what do you think about the winner

Model Answer

who was this person what competition did they win where and when was the completion held what do you think about the winner

Your Answer

I would like to tell you about a winner of the recent Vancouver winter Olympics.

Kim Yu Na has a gold medal in women’s figure skating.

There are several reasons why people consider her a winner.

First of all, she is the first South Korean to win a medal in junior and senior categories, ISU championship, and the Olympics.

Second, she is very popular in South Korea. She was on various Korean television programs and also did a lot of commercials.

Last but not least, she is very successful. She is ranked the highest paid female athlete. She also did a little bit of singing with popular Korean pop singers.

For these reasons, I believe that she is one of the best female athletes in Korea.

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 55

Part 3 Do you think that competition is part of human culture?

Are competitive games appropriate for young children?

Do competitions bring out the worst or the best in people?

Do you think that competition is part of human culture?

Do competitions bring out the worst or the best in people?

Competition is a learned behavior. Humans are not born competitive. What we are born with is an instinct to survive, but I think that competitiveness is learned through social interactions.

Are competitive games appropriate for young children?

Competition is nearly always set up as a win-lose situation and more likely to be fun for those who win, not for those who lose.

Children are often hurt by competitive games.

IELTS SPEAKING

Usually, our creativity, innovation, and capacity for hard work are fueled by competition. Some of the best of human endeavors have been fueled by competition, like space explorations.

Extra Questions a) Do you enjoy competing against friends? b) Why are the majority of paid competitive sports primarily for men? c) Why are some people not interested in sports? d) Is winning more important than playing the game?

PAGE 56

Topic 15 Extra Questions:

Part 1 PARTY Do you like to go to family parties?

Who do you like to party with?

What kind of parties have you been to?

What don’t you like in a party?

a) b) c) d) e) f) g)

Is it all right to party with people you do not know?

What can you get from partying?

Do you enjoy parties?

Do you think everyone should celebrate their birthday with a party?

Are parties a part of your culture?

Is there any disadvantage to frequent partying?

Do you prefer to have parties in or outside of your home?

Related vocabulary words and expressions 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

host (n) venue (n) gathering (n) social circle (phr) invited guests (phr) traditional/ local / foreign dish (phr) celebrate (v) organize (v) held at (phr) mingle (v)

Idiom throw a party – to host a party, invite guests

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 57

SAMPLE ANSWERS  Do you like to go to family parties?

Yes, I go to family parties when it’s the birthday of a close relative or for reunions. Some of my cousins have house parties and I like going to them too because it’s nice to bond with people I don’t see often.

 Who do you like to party with?

I like partying with my friends especially because we all know how to have fun. Parties become more enjoyable when I’m with them, so I often invite them to events we hold at home with relatives too.

IELTS SPEAKING

 What kind of parties have you been to?

Birthday parties, both for children and adults, are kind of parties I most often attend. I’ve also been to a wedding party, but the parties I most often enjoy going to are school parties with my classmates, since everyone is the same age and has similar interests.

 What don’t you like in a party?

Sometimes, parties can get really noisy and that irritates me, especially when uninvited guests try to crash the festivities. I also don’t like parties where I don’t know everyone who attends because I tend to feel a little uncomfortable around people I’m not used to.

PAGE 58

Part 2 Describe an important decision you have made before.

Describe an important decision you have made before.

You should say

You should say

when did you make this decision why did you make this decision what influenced this decision how has the result made you happier.

Model Answer

when you made this decision why you made this decision what influenced this decision how the result has made you happier.

Your Answer

I would like to tell you about one of the decisions that I made which was not an easy one.

And that was to become a vegetarian.

There are several reasons why I consider this important.

First of all, for years, I have been an advocate of animal’s rights, and yet I ate meat. I chose to become vegetarian because I could not continue to argue against animal cruelty and still eat meat.

Second, after watching a graphic movie on slaughter, this heavily influenced my decision to stop eating meat once and for all.

Last but not least, since I quit eating meat, I feel healthier and happier that my decision to abstain has spared animals suffering and reduced demand in meat.

For these reasons, becoming a vegetarian is a decision that needs to be made carefully. However, nobody should rush into making a major life change without thinking it through carefully.

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 59

Part 3 What decision have you made that you now regret?

Who is the main decision maker in your family?

Do you make decision quickly, or think about it for a long time?

What decision have you made that you now regret?

Last week, I became annoyed with how hot the length of my hair made me and I made a regrettable decision. I went to the salon and got my hair chopped into a bob, which I now really regret because I really miss my long, thick hair.

Do you make decision quickly, or think about it for a long time?

I like trusting my gut and making decisions on the spot rather than dwelling on it. This lets me be more spontaneous, despite the negative drawback of sometimes acting illogically or speaking before I think things through.

Who is the main decision maker in your family?

In my family, my father makes the majority of the minor decisions, while my mother is the primary important decisions maker. My father believes he makes all of the rules, but we all know that mom secretly runs the show, since nothing gets by her without first being approved.

IELTS SPEAKING

Extra Questions a) When did you make a decision that others thought was crazy? b) What was your most difficult decision in the last six months? c) At what age should children be able to make their own decisions? d) Why do people avoid making decisions?

PAGE 60

Topic 16 Extra Questions:

Part 1 TV PROGRAM Do you watch TV programs often?

Do you think the government should censor what people watch on TV? What kinds of TV programs are not suitable for children?

What do you watch more often, local or foreign TV programs?

a) b) c) d) e)

What kind of TV programs do you watch for entertainment?

Do TV programs have influence on children?

Do you think watching television is a waste of time?

How can watching too much television affect a child’s growth?

How old should a child be to be able to watch television freely?

Related vocabulary words and expressions 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

viewer (n) documentary (n) series (n) mainstream (n) witty (adj) enlightening (adj) live-broadcast (n) attention-grabbing (interesting) (phr) mind-numbing (boring) (phr) broadcast/televise (v)

Idiom Channel-surf – change TV channels frequently

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 61

SAMPLE ANSWERS  Do you watch TV programs often?

Yes, I watch TV programs often, almost every day. I watch the morning news before going to work. When I get home as well, I immediately turn on the TV, and on weekends, I spend almost the whole day watching.

 Do you think the government should censor what people watch on TV? Yes, I think that the government should censor what their citizens watch because TV has a strong influence on people. The authorities should make sure that people don’t watch anything that will be detrimental to them, like violent or sexually explicit programs.

IELTS SPEAKING

 What kinds of TV programs are not suitable for children?

The programs not suitable for children are those that have violent and sexual contents because children are too young for those. It may also cause harm since they are easily influenced by what they see, convincing kids that a life of crime is an exciting goal to strive for.

 What do you watch more often, local or foreign TV programs?

I prefer watching local TV programs more because the language they use are easier to understand. The cultural setting is also easier to relate to, and I appreciate programs that are made in my own country better.

PAGE 62

Part 2 Describe an intelligent person you know.

Describe an intelligent person you know.

You should say

You should say

who is the person when did you discover his intelligence what kind of person is he/she why is he/she intelligent

Model Answer

who is the person when did you discover his intelligence what kind of person is he/she why is he/she intelligent

Your Answer

I would like to tell you about one of the most intelligent persons that I know who happens to be my mother.

There are several reasons why I consider her so.

First of all, she solved my impossible math equation. I asked both my dad and my grandfather for help but they did not understand how to perform the calculation.

Second, she’s the type of person who has a good memory and even better concentration skills. I would be surprised when she clarifies difficult topics discussed in class. Whenever she helps me prepare for my exams, she made memorizing seem so easy.

Last but not least, being a humble person, she insisted on showing me how to do the problem, and she let me take all the credit.

For these reasons, I think my mother is so intelligent because she studies hard but is still level-headed.

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 63

Part 3 What is more important: intelligence or beauty?

Do you think intelligent people can do stupid things?

Does intelligence run in the family?

What is more important: intelligence or beauty?

Does intelligence run in the family?

Beauty is great, but it doesn’t last, so I think intelligence is more important. Intelligence becomes quite beautiful as you get to know someone and as they age, and contributes more to your life over a longer period than beauty does.

Do you think intelligent people can do stupid things?

Of course, since intelligence itself doesn’t make you rational, and irrational people do stupid things. Thinking rationally demands mental skills that some of us don’t have and many of us don’t use, which is why we often see socially awkward geniuses.

IELTS SPEAKING

I think yes, and everyone agrees that intelligence tends to run in families. Lots of studies have shown that this is true and most people can see it when they look at their own families, friends, and acquaintances.

Extra Questions a) What do you think of intelligence tests? Do you think they are accurate? b) Does school make a person more intelligent? c) Should intelligent children be educated separately? d) What is the difference in how people regard intelligence in the past and present?

PAGE 64

Topic 17 Extra Questions:

Part 1 HOUSEHOLD CHORES Do you like to do housework?

What kind of housework do you usually do?

What is your least favorite household chore?

What are the benefits of doing household chores?

Related vocabulary words and expressions 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

housework (n) tidy up / clean up (phr v) putting things where they belong (phr) dust (v) scrub (v) disposable (adj) regularly/frequently/rarely (adv) take the trash out (phr) make the bed (phr) set/clear the table (phr)

a) b) c) d) e) f) g) h) i)

Do you do housework by choice or do your parents force you to do so?

Are household chores necessary?

What are the most common household chores?

What household chores are the easiest to do?

What household chores are the hardest to do?

What chores will you never do?

Why do people do household chores?

Who often does household chores in your house?

Why do females more often bear the responsibility in doing household chores?

Idiom be fed up with – be tired of

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 65

SAMPLE ANSWERS  Do you like to do housework?

Surprisingly yes, I like to do house work a lot, and often do household work without being asked. My mother has never forced me into doing chores because I willingly do them, and am usually a great help in the kitchen when I visit my relatives for family dinners.

 What kind of housework do you usually do?

The type of housework I usually do includes fixing my bed in the morning and keeping my room clean. Sometimes when asked, I wash the dishes after meals, clean the toilet, and sweep the floor in the morning.

IELTS SPEAKING

 What is your least favorite household chore?

My least favorite household chore is dusting off appliances, furniture, window ledges, and the like. It’s very tiring and tedious, especially at home where my mother wants me to clean her tiny figurine collection one by one.

 What are the benefits of doing household chores?

I think that knowing how to do household chores helps me develop responsibility and prepares me for an independent life. Other benefits of household chores include scrubbing as a form of exercise and you getting to make your parents happy.

PAGE 66

Part 2 Describe an unforgettable memory from your childhood

Describe an unforgettable memory from your childhood

You should say

You should say

who was involved where did the memory take place how old were you at that time why do you remember it

Model Answer

who was involved where did the memory take place how old were you at that time why do you remember it

Your Answer

I would like to tell you about one of my best childhood memories and that is my holiday trips with my grandmother.

There are several reasons why I consider this so.

First of all, my grandma was a beautiful, funny person, and loved travelling. I think it’s because of her I like travelling so much too.

Second, we travelled to my uncle’s house every year – a cabin by a hill with a vista overlooking the sea where the wind blew strong.

We had such a wonderful time there, playing with my cousins, rolling down the hill, and making up different games. Our uncle was always happy to take us.

Last but not least, my grandma would bake cinnamon buns which smelled almost as good as they tasted.

For these reasons, I think those holiday trips were just a few among other unforgettable childhood experiences.

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 67

Part 3 What things do people usually keep from their childhood?

What things did you use to hate eating as a child?

Have you ever forgotten an important date, like a birthday or an anniversary?

What things do people usually keep from their childhood?

People usually keep small childhood toys, and I kept a stuffed Curious George monkey from when I was little. My stuffed monkey is a great reminder of my youth and today, he has only one eye and loses his stuffing constantly, but I will never throw him away.

What things did you use to hate eating as a child?

I refused to eat broccoli as a child until one of my baby sitters told me that they were magical green trees. She said that broccoli grew in your stomach and made you invisible, which I thought was the coolest thing in the world, until I the day I found out she lied.

IELTS SPEAKING

Have you ever forgotten an important date, like a birthday or an anniversary?

I forgot my own birthday one year, which was very embarrassing to do! I was working really hard on a term paper, and was surprised to see my parents arrive at my dorm room at 10 pm with gifts, and I didn’t know why.

Extra Questions a) What was a major event that occurred during your childhood? b) What in your opinion are the differences between adults with happy childhood and those without? c) How will children spend their childhood in the future?

PAGE 68

Topic 18 Extra Questions:

Part 1 MUSIC What kinds of music do you like the most?

Why do you think music is important to people/children?

Do you know how to play any kind of musical instrument?

What are the benefits of listening to music?

a) b) c) d) e) f)

Who is your favorite singer? Why? What is your favorite song?

When do you usually listen to music?

Do you like listening to sad songs?

When you listen to a song, do you notice the lyrics or the melody first?

What do you feel when you listen to music?

Related vocabulary words and expressions 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

harmony (n) melody (n) lyric (n) album (n) tune (n) gig – concert (n) a hit record (phr) funky (adj) catchy (adj) soothing (adj)

Idiom blow one’s mind – affect someone very strongly

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 69

SAMPLE ANSWERS  What kinds of music do you like the most?

The kinds of music I like the most include mellow, instrumental, and acoustic music. I often play songs of these types when I get home from a long day of work, and they help me relax and feel comfortable.

 Why do you think music is important to people/children?

I think that music is important to people because I think that without it, life would be very boring and plain. Music gives color to our lives because it mirrors life itself.

IELTS SPEAKING

 Do you know how to play any kind of musical instrument?

Yes, I know how to play the guitar and the piano, and I’ve been playing them since I was 10 years old. I’ve been attempting to master both of them since my mother allowed me to have formal classes, but I think it might take me a lifetime to perfect my skills.

 What are the benefits from listening to music?

Yes, I think that the music today is better because there are a lot more types of music to listen to and enjoy. The music today is also more expressive and personal, unlike the standard music in the past which dealt only with emotions like love and heartbreak.

PAGE 70

Part 2 Describe an unsuccessful trip.

Describe an unsuccessful trip.

You should say when did you go who did you go with what did you hope to see why was the trip unsuccessful

You should say when did you go who did you go with what did you hope to see why was the trip unsuccessful

Model Answer

Your Answer

I would like to tell you about an unsuccessful trip to New York City for the ball drop and New Year’s countdown back in 1999.

There were several factors that made it so.

First of all, a group of three friends and I decided that we wanted to pack our bags and go together at the last minute. Since the decision was done on the spur of the moment, it took us time to be ready for the trip. Second, although the distance was not so far, we did not expect the number of people and the traffic. Last but not least, since we felt desperate as a result of the traffic, we drove fast. Unfortunately, a policeman pulled our car over for speeding.

We ended up missing the entire show and spending our trip money on a hefty fine.

For these reasons, our trip became an epic failure.

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 71

Part 3 What things do people plan out before going on a trip?

Where would you go if money is not an issue?

What is the difference between business trips and leisure trips?

What things do people plan out before going on a trip? Why?

What is the difference between business trips and leisure trips?

When on business trips, you are never free to relax, making them different from leisure trips. Business trips restrict the traveler to hotel rooms and boring restaurants whereas leisure trips allow for fun and adventure, and the ability to be spontaneous.

The most important thing before going on a trip is to ensure your passport is valid. After that, people should exchange their currency, get a pet-sitter, double check their travel itinerary, and check the weather forecast. I believe that preparing well in advance lessens the chances of encountering problems.

Where would you go if money is not an issue? Why? I would love to visit Latin America if money was not an issue. They have such a rich history and beautiful culture, but I would also love to travel Madagascar to see ring-tailed lemurs in the wild.

IELTS SPEAKING

Extra Questions a) Why is international travel different than travelling locally? b) When travelling to another place, is it important to know first about the local culture? c) What changes has your country experienced when it comes to travelling? d) What are the benefits and drawbacks of local tourism?

PAGE 72

Topic 19 Extra Questions:

Part 1 ADVERTISEMENT What type of advertisement do you pay attention to?

Do you buy a product because of an advertisement?

What differences are there between TV and magazine advertisements?

What things do you want to buy based on advertisements?

a) Do you buy products because of advertisements? b) What are some memorable advertisements from the past that you still remember? c) Have you ever tried a product because of an advertisement but got disappointed? d) Do you prefer TV ads or those in magazines?

Related vocabulary words and expressions 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

product (n) consumer (n) endorsement (n) commercial break (phr) celebrity endorsement (phr) buy and sell (phr) brand awareness (phr) target audience (phr) persuasive (adj) misleading (adj)

Idiom word of mouth – recommendations made by individuals to other individuals about a product or service

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 73

SAMPLE ANSWERS  What type of advertisement do you pay attention to?

I pay attention to advertisements that feature my favorite singers because they easily catch my attention. I really like music so singers have a huge influence on me, and I like it even more if they sing and dance in those advertisements.

 Do you buy a product because of an advertisement?

I often buy new products because of a great advertisement as they really influence me to choose my daily purchases. I often recall the advertisements for certain products and seek them out specifically, and if I can’t remember the name of the product, I sing the tune to remember it.

IELTS SPEAKING

 What differences are there between TV advertisements and magazine advertisements?

There are some key differences between TV and magazine advertisements, including content, effectiveness, and limitations.

TV advertisements are livelier and more enjoyable since they are animated, meanwhile magazine advertisements are less interactive, making television advertising much more effective.

 What things do you want to buy based on advertisements?

Advertisement really influences me to buy certain food products when I go grocery shopping. For instance, there are many commercials for instant food nowadays, and for some reason, if I watch TV prior to grocery shopping, I tend to come home with more pre-packaged food.

PAGE 74

Part 2 Describe an environmental problem.

Describe an environmental problem.

You should say

You should say

what is the environmental problem where does this problem take place why does this problem persist how can this crisis be solved

Model Answer

what is the environmental problem where does this problem take place why does this problem persist how can this crisis be solved

Your Answer

I would like to tell you about one of the environmental problems in our society which is the destruction of rainforests.

There are several reasons why I consider this so.

First of all, rainforests are being quickly destroyed. Because of their depletion, they have received significant public and media attention unlike other environmental issues. Every year, Brazil chops down an area of forest the size of the state of Nebraska.

Second, despite the opposition to the cutting down of rainforests, the problem continues. Collaborated efforts between government and non-government organizations to stop this seem not enough due to other factors. Last but not least, the world’s growing population has been a primary cause of rainforest destruction, and is the reason it continues. More people need land to live in and wood products to consume.

For these reasons, I think limiting population growth may be the first in a series of steps that would limit the destruction of rainforests.

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 75

Part 3 Which environmental crisis affects humans the most?

Why is overpopulation an important environmental issue?

What happens when we remove forests?

Which environmental crisis affects humans the most?

I believe that climate change is the most alarming threat to human life currently faced by the world today. Climate change conferences are attended by the world leaders now, but as nations are unable to agree, the issue remains and our planet continues to suffer.

What happens when we remove forests?

When forests are removed, the natural water balance can get irreversibly disrupted. Forests loss often results in habitat degradation, species extinctions, and an overall compromise of the ecological integrity of the landscape, so swift measures should be taken to protect the world’s forests.

Why is overpopulation an important environmental issue?

Overpopulation places competitive stress on our basic life sustaining resources which diminishes our quality of life. The earth can only handle so many people at one time before it runs out of food, water, and room, which makes overpopulation an important environmental issue.

IELTS SPEAKING

Extra Questions: a) Is protecting the environment more important than increasing a person’s standard of living? b) Do you think recycling is an important community service? c) Should governments take all of the responsibility for solving environmental issues? d) Why should cars be banned from city centers?

PAGE 76

Topic 20

Extra Questions:

Part 1 FLOWERS Do you like having flowers at home?

Where do you usually buy flowers?

When do you buy flowers and why?

What do you feel when someone gives you flowers?

a) b) c) d) e) f) g)

For what occasions do you usually buy flowers?

What flower colors do you like the most?

Do you like smelling flowers?

What do you think of people who cultivate flowers for a living?

Do you think flowers are still relevant nowadays?

What can we get from flowers?

Do only girls like receiving flowers?

Related vocabulary words and expressions 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

florist (n) a bouquet of flowers (phr) artificial flowers (phr) a bunch of (phr) cultivate (v) fragrant (adj) gorgeous (adj) sweet-scented (phr) brighten up (phr v) deliriously happy (phr)

Idiom give off – smell

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 77

SAMPLE ANSWERS  Do you like having flowers at home?

Yes, I like having fresh flowers at home, especially roses since they are my favorite flowers. I always try to buy roses on my way home from work because I feel relaxed when I smell them, and my work days sometimes leave me feeling quite stressed.

 Where do you usually buy flowers?

I usually buy flowers at the nearby flower shop because they sell organically grown bouquets. I am a regular customer there, so the staff and owners give me great deals on fresh flowers, hence, it keeps me coming back to that shop.

IELTS SPEAKING

 When do you buy flowers and why?

I buy flowers when I have a date with my girlfriend, and I give her tulips since they make her happy. I also give her flowers on special occasions, but I try not to buy them too frequently or else buying them for her will lose its special meaning.

 What do you feel when someone gives you flowers?

I am flattered whenever someone gives me flowers, especially if I really like that person. Receiving flowers makes me feel like I am appreciated and cared for, and it really makes me happy to know that someone thought of me.

PAGE 78

Part 2 Describe your favorite season of the year.

You should say what season is it what is the weather like at that time who do you enjoy the season with why is it better than any other season

Model Answer

Describe your favorite season of the year.

You should say what season is it what is the weather like at that time who do you enjoy the season with why is it better than any other season

Your Answer

I would like to tell you about my favorite season which is summer.

There are several reasons why I consider this so.

First of all, I love watching the sun rise over the ocean and going to the beach. Nothing beats the majestic view of the sun and the water over the horizon. This always gives me a sense of tranquility.

Second, I am a teacher, so in the summer, I have six luxurious weeks to do as I please without going to work. Although there are breaks in other seasons, it is not as long as I would like it to be. Last but not least, I can do a number of activities from having picnics to swimming and more. I can enjoy the same kind of activities with my children since we do most of our trips at this time of the year.

For these reasons, summer beats any other time of the year because I hate the snow, rain, and wind of autumn through spring.

Perhaps I should move to the equator!

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 79

Part 3 When can climate affect people?

Where would you live in the world based on your seasonal preference?

Do seasons have any influence on the economy?

When can climate affect people?

Some people experience seasonal affective disorder which is caused by climatic change. Also known as winter depression, it is a mood disorder in which people who have normal mental health throughout most of the year experience depressive symptoms in the winter.

Where would you live in the world based on your seasonal preference?

For me, I would love to live in a rainforest because I love the rain.

Costa Rica would be ideal; under the shade of huge trees in a lush environment with hot and humid weather, I would live happily despite the gigantic bugs and wet conditions.

IELTS SPEAKING

Do seasons have any influence on the economy?

Seasons deeply affect import and export markets, which in turn have a significant influence on the economy of an area. An unanticipated drought or extended frost could alter crop production and influence market prices drastically.

Extra Questions: a) What places experience less than four seasons per year? b) What are the advantages of climates that change? c) What are the advantages of climates that do not change? d) Is checking the weather forecast an important daily task for you?

PAGE 80

Topic 21 Extra Questions:

Part 1 TEAMWORK OR COOPERATION If you meet some difficulty in work, do you work it out by yourself or with other’s help?

What is the importance of teamwork?

What are the disadvantages of working in groups?

a) b) c) d) e)

Do you do group work in university?

Do you cooperate with your colleagues?

Are you more comfortable working alone or in a group?

What characteristics are needed for one to work well in a team?

What adjustments must be made for a person to be able to work with other people?

How does working in groups affect the relationship of the members?

Related vocabulary and expressions 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

task (n) collaboration (n) team (n) participation (n) assign (v) sense of accomplishment (n) learning experience (n) bossy (adj) irresponsible (adj) compromise (n/v)

Idiom work things out – find a solution

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 81

SAMPLE ANSWERS  If you encounter some difficulty in work, do you work it out by yourself or with other’s help?

I often solve work problems that I experience with the people around me rather than try to fix it myself. If it’s a personal problem, I would personally attend to it. However, since work often concerns other people, it is important that I ask for their help in solving it together.

 What is the importance of teamwork?

Teamwork is very important in the workplace, and often has a positive impact on productivity and efficiency. With more people working together, more tasks can be accomplished during a shorter period of time compared to one person working alone.

IELTS SPEAKING

 What are the disadvantages of working in groups?

Sometimes, group members that are more effective working alone and cannot express themselves well in groups face disadvantages working in teams. Other times, some workers have attitude problems and find it hard to get along with others, thus affecting productivity.

 How does working in groups affect the relationship of the members?

Group work can either strengthen or weaken the bond between the members, depending on their working experiences. If the experience working together was good, it could have a positive effect among the members and lead to success and vice versa.

PAGE 82

Part 2 Describe a project that you had done in your company/school.

Describe a project that you had done in your company/school.

You should say

You should say

what was project the about who gave the project to you when you had to complete it why the project was successful

Model Answer

what was project about who gave the project to you when you had to complete it why the project was successful

Your Answer

I would like to tell you about one of the projects I did in elementary which was constructing a volcano for the science fair.

There are several reasons why I consider this successful.

First of all, our teacher in science gave us a week to come up with a project related to science. I wanted to choose easier tasks but somehow felt uncomfortable doing it.

Second, despite my older brother’s opposition to making the volcano due to past failure and other challenges such as time constraint, I was able to do it.

Last but not least, I did not have any idea how to make my volcano explode so I did some basic chemistry research. During the fair, my teacher and the judges were quite impressed with the way I was able to balance the intensity of how my volcano erupted.

For these reasons, I suppose my project was successful in a lot of ways. Most importantly, it taught me about chemical reactions.

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 83

Part 3 How do group projects help build relationship at work?

What makes a good project leader?

When your team encounters a problem, such as irritation with another co-worker, how do you resolve this situation?

How do group projects help build relationship at work?

When a team accomplishes something at work together, it makes people bond closer. The team is capable of producing more than what its individual members can do alone, and I think that performing group projects together creates a willingness to work as a collective group in an office environment.

When your team encounters a problem, such as irritation with another co-worker, how do resolve this situation?

I would resolve this issue on my team through an interactive session with the team members in order to trace the root cause of the problem. I would also impart the importance of team spirit to them in the achievement of the goal so as to reach a conclusion which will allow us to continue working together.

What makes a good project leader?

A good project leader can look beyond the success of the project at hand for the overall success of the company. They lead by example, stay organized, provide feedback, and treat all members equally.

IELTS SPEAKING

Extra Questions: a) Are women better than men at certain projects? b) What are some similarities and differences in the way men and women do projects? c) What are the advantages and disadvantages of having deadlines? d) What projects do you think the government should focus on the most?

PAGE 84

Topic 22 Extra Questions:

Part 1 COMPANY What do you think about companies running 24-hours a day?

What are the differences between big and small companies?

Would you choose to work in a big or small company?

a) b) c) d)

Describe your company.

What kinds of companies are common in your country?

Have you worked for a big company before?

What are the hierarchical differences between big and small companies?

Related vocabulary or expressions 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

firm (n) service (n) client (n) colleague (n) executive (n) subordinate (n) company ties / partnership (n) run one’s own business (v) set up a business (v) make a profit (v)

Idiom nine-to-five – between nine o’clock and five o’clock, the normal working hours of an office worker

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 85

SAMPLE ANSWERS  What do you think about companies running 24-hours a day?

I think that it is sometimes unreasonable to have companies running 24-hours a day. The equipment and other machinery they use need a break and undergo maintenance once in a while for a 24-hour company operation can also incur larger expenses.

 What are the differences between big and small companies?

Big companies differ in that they essentially have more financial resources and have more employees than small companies. There is also a formal organization hierarchy compared to small companies that have fewer resources and earn comparatively less income.

IELTS SPEAKING

 Would you choose to work in a big or small company?

I personally want to work in a big company because I want stability and security. Big companies usually last longer, offer better benefits, and are more financially secured compared to small companies without financial backing to provide these perks.

 What are the benefits of having numerous companies in a country?

The benefits of having numerous companies in a country are huge since the income of a country comes in part from its businesses. If there are both big and small companies that contribute to the nation’s income, this will encourage investors to set up more businesses that will lead to a diversified market which in turn is a healthy market.

PAGE 86

Part 2 Describe something that makes you healthy.

Describe something that makes you healthy.

You should say

You should say

what is it when did you begin to do it when did you start to do sport why is it good for your health

Model Answer

what is it when did you begin to do it when did you start to do sport why is it good for your health

Your Answer

I would like to tell you about one of the ways I do to stay healthy which is playing soccer.

There are several reasons why I consider this good for my health.

First of all, I knew this was the sport for me. I started playing soccer when I was in high school after my friend joined the team. My friend played forward, and I played goalkeeper. Second, being part of a team was really fun, and we made a lot of friends this way. I began playing seriously in college and even got the opportunity to play overseas with my team. Last but not least, I love that soccer is played outdoors which is a good break from being indoors studying all the time. I believe that playing soccer helps improve your endurance and overall fitness. I have noticed my health improved dramatically since starting the sport.

For these reasons, I think playing soccer can teach us the benefits of being part of a team and good sportsmanship among other things.

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 87

Part 3 What can children learn from playing in groups?

Do you think that the activities you did as a child would still be appealing to children today?

What are the benefits of individual activities?

What can children learn from playing in groups?

Children can learn the value of working in teams if they are in a group. They can also learn how to relate to different kinds of people and befriend them since the ability to form relationships with other people is a very important skill.

What are the benefits of individual activities?

When I do something on my own, I feel very independent because I do not have to rely on anyone for help. Individual activities are also beneficial in that one can learn from their own mistakes, thus gaining self-correction skills. Moreover, there is no pressure to compete with others.

Do you think that the activities you did as a child would still be appealing to children today?

I don’t think that children today would enjoy the activities done when I was young. We used to enjoy even the simplest things, but now, all kids want to do is play with their electronic gadgets and spend time inside the house.

IELTS SPEAKING

Extra Questions: a) What can children learn through play? b) What kind of responsibilities do children need to bear? Why? c) Is important to be part of a group? Why? d) What is the difference between the way you got along with others in your adolescence and that in your childhood?

PAGE 88

Topic 23 Part 1

Extra Questions:

NEWSPAPER & RADIO Where do you get news from?

What do you think about the TV compared to the radio?

Which is more popular?

Do you listen to the radio more than you read the newspaper?

a) b) c) d) e) f) g)

Do people read newspapers every day in your country?

Are radios more popular than newspapers?

Which form of media do you prefer more?

What sections in the newspaper do you often read?

Do you like reading local or international news more?

What are the differences between the radio and the newspaper?

Which is more effective media form when it comes to advertising?

Related vocabulary or expressions 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

news source (n) tabloids (n) regional / national newspapers (n) make the headlines (phr) story went viral (phr) hourly news program (phr) public information (n) peruse my favorite column unscrupulous reporters (phr) columnist (n)

Idiom invasion of privacy – intrusion into the personal life of another

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 89

SAMPLE ANSWERS  Where do you get news from?

I pay attention to local news since I want to be updated about what’s happening locally, so I read regional newspapers from time to time. Most of my time, though, is spent going over national newspapers as I prefer to see news that has made headlines.

 What do you think about the TV compared to the radio?

I think that the TV differs a lot from the radio since we can actually watch the programs in contrast to just listening. I also believe that the TV is more interactive and enjoyable, and the radio is an outdated piece of technology that most people only listen to for traffic and weather updates.

IELTS SPEAKING

 Which is more popular?

I think that the TV is more popular than the radio since it has become a large part of our culture. There are definitely more people who have TV sets than those who have radios, and many people think only about listening to the radio when they are driving.

 Do you listen to the radio more than you read the newspaper?

Yes, I listen to the radio more than I read the newspaper because I love music. When I want to know the latest news, I watch television instead because visuals help me understand facts better than purely audio.

PAGE 90

Part 2 Describe an activity you like in your childhood.

You should say who did you play with what was the activity what did you enjoy about it is it beneficial for you to keep in close contact with your childhood friends

Model Answer

Describe an activity you like on your childhood.

You should say who did you play with what was the activity what did you enjoy about it is it beneficial for you to keep in close contact with your childhood friends

Your Answer

I would like to tell you about one of the activities I liked doing in my childhood which was playing dodgeball with my closest friends in elementary.

There are several reasons why we enjoyed this activity.

First of all, this game is an easy game to learn. Two teams line up opposite each other and run to take balls off from a center line.

Players must tag members of the other team by throwing balls at them. If a player is hit with the ball, they must sit out the game.

Second, we played this game whenever we had the chance. During lunch break, after classes, or even during weekends and long breaks, my friends and I would not only play the game among ourselves but also invite more to make it even more interesting and challenging. The more players we got, the longer our game got.

Last but not least, I really enjoyed those times, and sometimes, I want to be that age again, so I can just run outside with my friends and have fun. Although we played other games, this was our favorite.

For these reasons, playing dodgeball among other things kept our friendship strong and to this day, we still call each other because talking about the old days make us happy.

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 91

Part 3 What should schools do regarding health?

What is the media’s influence on people’s health?

Do you think that people are healthier now compared to the past?

What should schools do regarding health?

Regarding the health of the students, schools should promote healthy living and educate people about nutrition. Also, they should include physical education in their curriculum, make sure that the food served in the canteen is healthy, and hold annual medical examinations for their students.

Do you think that people are healthier now compared to the past?

I believe that people in the past were healthier than people are today because of today’s overconsumption of processed foods.

Nowadays, there is an increased number of companies that produce junk food and other unhealthy snacks compared to before, which may continue to add to this problem.

What is the media’s influence on people’s health?

The media often dictates what people should or should not eat and look like, which greatly influences overall public health trends. As people are exposed to the media all the time, they cannot help but go along with these trends, especially for food and appearance, regardless if something is healthy or not.

IELTS SPEAKING

Extra Questions: a) What are the responsibilities of employers regarding the health of their employees? b) Does the media have an opposite effect on people’s health? c) Do doctors have the responsibility to educate patients about how to look after their health? d) Do employers have the responsibility to protect their employees’ health?

PAGE 92

Topic 24 Extra Questions:

Part 1 ART What is your favorite type of art?

What kind of art did you do when you were a child?

Do you want to go visit museums?

Which foreign artists do you know?

a) b) c) d) e)

What kind of museum do you like to visit?

What kind of museums have you visited?

Do you know any great local artists?

Why is art valuable especially to a country’s history?

What is the most recent work of art you’ve seen?

Related vocabulary or expressions 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

arts / crafts visual arts plastic arts performance arts figurative / representational art contemporary art abstract display exhibits / exhibition artifact

Idiom a work of art – something considered to be attractive or has a strong imaginative appeal

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 93

SAMPLE ANSWERS  What is your favorite type of art?

I really like looking at photographs and paintings, so I believe that two-dimensional art is my favorite. Both of these art forms try to tell stories and can be open to interpretation according to what the person looking at them sees. This makes them accessible and enjoyable for me.

 What kind of art did you do when you were a child?

I used to draw a lot when I was younger, and I used to make finger paintings to hang on the fridge. My mother even enrolled me in an art class to develop my skills, but it has been years since I last drew a picture.

IELTS SPEAKING

 Do you want to go visit museums?

Yes, I really want to go to museums because I find it fascinating that they hold objects sometimes over a thousand years old. Museums also house other artifacts which have great cultural value, and I think that taking a trip to the museum is a wonderfully educational way to spend a rainy afternoon.

 Which foreign artists do you know?

Among foreign artists, I am very familiar with the works of Leonardo da Vinci, Vincent van Gogh, and Michelangelo. In fact, da Vinci’s Mona Lisa is one of my favorite paintings of all time, and I recently saw his frescoes on the ceilings of the Sistine Chapel in Rome.

PAGE 94

Part 2 Talk about a course that you want to learn if you have time.

You should say: what is it why do you want to learn it what do you think about it how can it help you

Model Answer

Talk about a course that you want to learn if you have time.

You should say: what is it why do you want to learn it what do you think about it how can it help you

Your Answer

I would like to tell you about one of the lessons I would really like to take if I had the time and that is French lessons.

There are several reasons why I want to learn it.

First of all, I have always wanted to travel to France, and I would have a better experience if I could speak their language. My cousin just came back recently from Paris and showed me photos of the beautiful buildings which line the city streets. It would be amazing to see them first hand; however, I am worried that I will have a hard time traveling if I can’t speak the language.

Second, learning French will be difficult, but it will also be rewarding. It will help me understand the local people when I travel which will help me feel confident while I go sightseeing. Last but not least, learning another language will also improve my resume. Employers today are looking for workers with a good education, and having French on my resume will show that I have a range of skills.

For these reasons, Iearning French will be beneficial in more ways than one.

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 95

Part 3 What are the differences between the activities that children enjoy today and activities in the past?

How is a child that likes to play alone different from the one who has a lot of friends?

Do sports games cause competition or strengthen cooperation?

What are the differences between the activities that children enjoy today and activities in the past?

Children in the past enjoy the simplest things, like playing tag or riding their bicycles with friends. Nowadays, technology is the main source of children’s enjoyment, taking them away from the outside world and making them play a largely indoor exercise.

How is a child that likes to play alone different from the one who has a lot of friends?

The child who likes to play alone is more independent as they are able to find enjoyment in being alone. Meanwhile, children who often play with others demonstrate good interpersonal skills and tend to be more socially adept. This is why socialization is important to a youngster’s development.

IELTS SPEAKING

Do sports games cause competition or strengthen cooperation?

I think that the emphasis on cooperation and competition depends on the sport being played. Some sports require individual talent and others focus on team effort, but I believe sports should attempt to foster both as life requires a capability in cooperation and talent.

Extra Questions: a) Do you think children nowadays would still enjoy this activity? b) What popular games in the past are still popular with children today? c) What are the influences of competitive sports on children? d) How does experiencing childhood competition affect a child’s future?

PAGE 96

Topic 25 Extra Questions:

Part 1 HOMETOWN Where is your hometown?

How long have you been there?

What is the biggest problem in your hometown?

What is the main form of transportation in your city?

a) b) c) d) e) f)

What kind of things do you like to do in the city?

Is there anything that needs to be improved in your city?

Are there any historical buildings in your hometown?

How long did you live in your hometown before moving?

Are there educational facilities near your old home?

What is one thing you will never forget about your hometown?

Related vocabulary or expressions 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

suburb (n) amenities (n) the locals (n) the outskirts (n) heart of the city (n) winding street (phr) residential area (n) sense of community (phr) lively/bustling/vibrant (place) (adj) sleepy/relaxed/dull (place) (adj)

Idiom the rat race – fast pace of modern city life where no one has the time to sit back and enjoy life

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 97

SAMPLE ANSWERS  Where is your hometown?

I was born in Lower Manhattan, New York, located in the southernmost part of Manhattan. My parents have also lived there since they were 10 after their families moved from New Jersey, so Lower Manhattan is truly my family’s hometown.

 How long have you been there?

I have been here all my life since my family hasn’t ever moved, and I grew up in Lower Manhattan entirely. I am now 23 years old, which is also the same number of years I’ve lived here, but it seems just like yesterday that I left home to go overseas.

IELTS SPEAKING

 What is the biggest problem in your hometown?

I think the biggest problem in cities like my hometown Lower Manhattan is the atmospheric pollution. A lot of people have cars nowadays and this has caused our air to become impure due to the carbon dioxide that the multitude of cars on the roads emit.

 What is the main form of transportation in your city?

Most people ride the subway, the main form of transportation for going around or out of Lower Manhattan. It is the most convenient form of public transportation there is, and riding it is also really hassle- free, inexpensive, and safe.

PAGE 98

Part 2 Describe a situation when you were in a traffic jam.

You should say when did it happen where was it why did it happen what were your feelings at that time

Model Answer

Describe a situation when you were in a traffic jam.

You should say when did it happen where was it why did it happen what were your feelings at that time

Your Answer

I would like to tell you about one of the traffic jams I experienced while driving to the library with a friend last week.

There are several reasons why this situation occurred.

First of all, we were travelling at a steady pace when all of a sudden the car in front of us slammed on their brakes. We were only six blocks away from the library, so you can imagine how annoyed we were. The cars around us were honking their horns and shaking their fists, but our lane refused to move. We put our heads out of the windows to try to see why we had stopped, but we couldn’t see anything.

Second, when the traffic began to move thirty minutes later, we understood why it had happened. The city was making a movie on our street, so they had to stop the traffic to film.

Last but not least, all of this happened on the weekend when families go out to spend time together and friends hang out. Not only were there so many cars but people as well.

For these reasons, I think it was truly unavoidable for us to get stuck on the road due to these factors.

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 99

Part 3 What qualities should a PE teacher have?

Which is more important, qualification or work experience?

Should university education be compulsory?

What qualities should a PE teacher have?

A good PE teacher must first of all be physically fit or be involved in sports and physical activities. Doing sports in actuality and not just conceptually teaching the students in their class is a more effective way of acquiring and sharing that knowledge.

Should university education be compulsory?

Yes, I think university education should be compulsory as it allows us to discover the subjects we are interested in. The majority of prestigious occupations today require post-secondary education, and studying brings us closer to the career we want in the future, so making it compulsory makes sense.

Which is more important, qualification or work experience?

Work experience plays an important role in teaching and demonstrates one’s ability, thus it should be given a heavier consideration. In addition, learning through experience is usually better as concepts taught in schools are usually different from their application.

IELTS SPEAKING

Extra Questions: a) Do you think that students should only either study courses that will secure them a job in the future, or study the ones that they like best? b) What industries offer the highest number of employment opportunities? c) Do you think it is okay if people pursue a job that is unrelated to their course? d) Should schools impose an age limit on the students they admit?

PAGE 100

Topic 26 Part 1

Extra Questions:

LANGUAGES How many languages can you speak?

Apart from English, can you speak other foreign languages?

Why do people like learning foreign languages?

What is the best way to learn a foreign language?

a) b) c) d)

Do girls learn foreign languages more quickly than boys?

What is the most difficult part of language learning?

Have you ever helped anyone learn a foreign language?

Is it better to enroll in a language class than it is to learn a language through self-study? e) Since when have you been learning a foreign language? f) Is there an easy way to learn a language?

Related vocabulary or expressions 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

dialect (n) bilingual (adj) active listener (phr) verbal communication (phr) native tongue (phr) common language (phr) be fluent in (phr) converse (v) communicate (v) translate (v)

Idiom all Greek – a language that one does not understand

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 101

SAMPLE ANSWERS  How many languages can you speak?

I can speak just French and English, so two languages in total, but I would love to be trilingual. I am fluent in French since I have spoken it since I was born, and I am currently learning how to be fluent in English by attending university here in London.

 Apart from English, can you speak other foreign languages?

No, English is the only foreign language I can speak, but I hope that this will soon change. I am still learning how to be fluent in English. After I master the language, I might try to learn Mandarin or Cantonese because they are so popular today.

IELTS SPEAKING

 Why do people like learning foreign languages?

I think that learning a foreign language is the best way to know more about a country’s people and culture. People also like learning foreign languages because they help broaden our knowledge and it gives us an advantage in terms of international employment opportunities.

 What is the best way to learn a foreign language?

I think that the best way to learn a foreign language is to speak it every day. If possible, it is equally helpful to go abroad and stay in the country where it is frequently spoken so as to interact with the locals themselves.

PAGE 102

Part 2 Talk about a person who is good at cooking

Talk about a person who is good at cooking

You should say who he/she is what kind of food does he/she cook how did he/she learn to cook why is he/she a good cook

You should say who he/she is what kind of food does he/she cook how did he/she learn to cook why is he/she a good cook

Model Answer

Your Answer

I would like to tell you about my grandmother who loves and is best at cooking.

There are several reasons why I consider her so.

First of all, I was fascinated standing by and watching my grandmother put a pinch of this and that into the mixing bowl. I loved to watch her mix biscuits with her hands and then scrape the dough off her fingers with the back of a knife. She seemed so graceful whenever she cooked or baked.

Second, she made cooking seem so easy. I learned basic cooking from my grandmother who learned how to cook from reading her family recipes. Thanks to her, I could enjoy and easily prepare dishes that at first seemed difficult.

Last but not least, her food is outstanding because she puts a lot of heart into what she makes.

For these reasons, I believe she is a good cook.

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 103

Part 3 Will the traffic jams be a serious issue in the future?

What are the causes of traffic jams?

What should we do to solve traffic problems?

Will the traffic jams be a serious issue in the future?

Yes, it looks like traffic jams will increase in the future as more people are able to buy cars. More cars are being created due to technological advancements, and people are starting to consider having their own vehicle as a necessity especially in this modern world.

What are the causes of traffic jams?

Traffic jams can be attributed to the rising population of people in cities who commute daily in their vehicles. Roads and highways that experience a high volume of traffic daily were likely built when the city was smaller and the population of drivers was lower.

IELTS SPEAKING

What should we do to solve traffic problems?

To solve traffic problems, we should enforce strict rules of traffic violations to decrease the number of accidents, speeders, and drunk drivers. Next, road expansion projects should be invested in to add extra lanes to roads especially for high capacity vehicles so as to ease congestion during rush hour.

Extra Questions: a) Do traffic jams affect the environment? b) What is the future of traffic in cities? c) Should the government increase car taxation? d) What is the social loss caused by traffic jams?

PAGE 104

Topic 27 Extra Questions:

Part 1 FILMS Do you prefer to watch films in the cinema or at home?

What films do you like the best? Why? What movies do people at different ages like respectively?

Do you watch films because of the story or because of the actors?

a) b) c) d) e) f) g)

How often do you go to the cinema?

Do you like seeing movies?

What kind of movies do you dislike?

Have you watched any movies you liked recently?

What kinds of films did you like to watch when you were younger?

What were the most popular films when you were younger?

What is the saddest movie you have ever seen?

Related vocabulary or expressions 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

genre (n) blockbuster (n) cast (n) plot (n) review (n) stunt (n) intense (adj) film /movie buff (phr) on the big screen (phr) be engrossed in (phr)

Idiom catch the latest movie – see a film that has just come out

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 105

SAMPLE ANSWERS  Do you prefer to watch films in the cinema or at home?

I prefer watching films in a cinema since catching them on the big screen is more enjoyable and exciting. I believe that watching in a cinema is worth the money I pay for it, but I think the price of the popcorn and soda there is astronomical.

 What films do you like best? Why? I like romantic comedies and inspirational movies the best because watching them makes me feel happy and light-hearted. Those kinds of films really amuse me since I can often relate to the characters that they portray and see the humor in everyday mishaps.

IELTS SPEAKING

 What movies do people at different ages like respectively?

As people grow older, their tastes in movies change, and people of different ages enjoy watching different genres. Children like watching cartoons or animated movies, the youth prefer romantic films, and finally adults tend to like dramas or those with more serious themes.



Do you watch films because of the story or because of the actors?

I often watch movies starring my favorite actors, but mostly I choose films with a good plot. Before watching any film, I consider the movie’s trailer and watch out for reviews from other people because if they are bad, I don’t’ want to waste my money.

PAGE 106

Part 2 Describe a book you read.

Describe a book you read.

You should say

You should say

what is the title and who wrote it. who are the characters what is an exciting scene in the book why it is such a memorable book for you

Model Answer

what is the title and who wrote it. who are the characters what is an exciting scene in the book why it is such a memorable book for you

Your Answer

I would like to tell you about one of the books I have read called “The Time Traveler’s Wife” by Audrey Niffenegger.

There are several reasons why I consider this memorable.

First of all, I am so much into romance and this is a love story between a man named Henry whose genetic disorder causes him to travel unpredictably, and his wife Clara who copes with it.

Second, I cannot forget the most exciting scene when on New Year’s Eve of 2006, Henry travels to the middle of the woods and is accidentally shot by Clare’s brother. Henry returns to the present and dies in his wife’s arms.

Last but not least, I find it so memorable because unlike other books of its kind, it uses time travel to deal with miscommunication and distance in relationships.

For these reasons, the unique way of how a relationship is handled among other things make it one of my favorites.

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 107

Part 3 Should kids learn how to cook? Why? Should schools open up cooking courses? Why? Do schools have the responsibility to monitor food safety?

Should kids learn how to cook?

Yes, kids should definitely learn how to cook as this will benefit them as they grow up, especially with regards to their health.

Nowadays, not a lot of young people know how to cook a decent meal, resorting to instant and fast food for nourishment.

Should schools open up cooking courses?

If there is a demand for cooking courses, then yes, schools should take advantage of that market. Taking cooking courses will be beneficial especially since food is one of our basic necessities and we definitely want it to taste good.

IELTS SPEAKING

Do schools have the responsibility to monitor food safety?

Absolutely. Schools should monitor the food that their students eat because they have primary responsibility for the children during school hours. Parents trust that schools monitor the safety of their children during school hours, and therefore, the administration should be accountable for this.

Extra Questions: a) Should government force the food industry to serve healthy food only? b) Do people like healthy food now more than before? c) How will the food that people eat change in the future? d) Is it important to eat with one’s family?

PAGE 108

Topic 28 Extra Questions:

Part 1 RELAXATION How do you relax?

When do you usually relax?

How much time do people usually spend on outdoor activities every week?

Do you like to relax with your officemates after work or just relax by yourself?

a) b) c) d) e) f) g) h)

What kind of outdoor activities do you like the most?

What do you like to do to relax in your spare time?

What is your typical day like?

How do you usually spend your holiday?

What is your definition of relaxation?

Do you always have time to relax?

Do you go somewhere specific to relax?

Do you like going to salon or spas?

Related vocabulary or expressions 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

Relaxing (adj) Drained (adj) overwhelmed (adj) tiring day (phr) calming (adj) unwind (v) work balance (phr) short breaks (phr) sleep-inducing (adj) tranquil state of mind (phr)

Idiom put one’s feet up – to relax

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 109

SAMPLE ANSWERS  How do you relax?

At home, I relax by taking a warm bath, sleeping, or listening to my favorite mellow songs. I like spending some time alone when I need to unwind and forget about my problems, so I often relax in front of the TV with my cat, Giggles.

 When do you usually relax?

I only have the time to relax on weekends so I make the most of it then. I usually go out with my friends on Saturdays then stay at home to pamper myself on Sundays by giving myself facials and painting my nails.

IELTS SPEAKING

 How much time do people usually spend on outdoor activities every week?

People rarely spend time outdoors nowadays. In fact, weekends are the only times they can really relax. Some people do not have time for outdoor activities because of their busy lifestyles since they focus most of their daily lives working in small indoor cubicles.

 Do you like to relax with your officemates after work or just relax by yourself?

When I’m really stressed, I prefer relaxing at home rather than with others. It isn’t often that I go out with my officemates to chat over coffee to relieve work anxieties, but on occasion, I do it just to keep up appearances.

PAGE 110

Part 2 Describe an interesting speech.

Describe an interesting speech.

You should say

You should say

who gave the speech what was it about where did you attend this speech why did you think it was interesting

Model Answer

who gave the speech what was it about where did you attend this speech why did you think it was interesting

Your Answer

I would like to tell you about one of the interesting speeches delivered by the late Princess Diana which was “Responding to Landmines”.

There are several reasons why I consider this interesting.

First of all, she went down in history for giving one of the strongest influential speeches of all time.

Second, she urged the international public to ban the use of landmines as nearly eight hundred people lost their lives every month stepping on them, and many of the deceased or injured were children at play.

Last but not least, as I sat in my college dorm room watching the coverage with my roommates, I learned that she joined the British Red Cross and went to Angola to help.

For these reasons, it showed me how one person can make a difference globally and how many countries around the world desperately need our help.

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 111

Part 3 Are group discussions more effective in conveying information than lectures?

What are good ways to capture the attention of the audience during a lecture?

What qualities should an effective speaker have?

Are group discussions more effective in conveying information than lectures?

No, I don't think that one is more effective than the other; rather, different styles fit different people. People differ in their ways of effectively understanding and digesting information, and there are some who prefer to listen to people who talk things out in group discussions.

What are good ways to capture the attention of the audience during a lecture?

Jokes and games are sure ways of capturing and retaining the audiences' attention when you deliver a lecture. People don't usually like very serious and boring talks, so injecting a little fun to speeches will definitely liven things up.

IELTS SPEAKING

What qualities should an effective speaker have?

A speaker should be knowledgeable about his or her topic and have the ability to hold the attention of their audience. Confidence is also important because it is an indicator of credibility, as is alertness to readily answer possible questions from the audience.

Extra Questions: a) What kinds of people are best suited to give speeches to children? b) Which is a more effective learning method, a lecture or a discussion? c) Should lecturers always be formal to command respect or should they sometimes be informal? d) Why are people easily influenced by good speakers?

PAGE 112

Topic 29 Extra Questions:

Part 1 COLORS What was your favorite color when you were a child?

Is that still your favorite color now?

Do you think colors are important?

Is color very important to you when you are buying clothes?

a) b) c) d) e)

Are there any colors you dislike?

Do you usually wear clothes in your favorite color?

Do you prefer light or dark colors?

Are there any colors that have special meaning in your country?

Do you think different types of people like different colors?

Related vocabulary or expressions 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

Hue (n) Dominant (adj) a shade of (phr) vibrant/vivid / colors (phr) dull colors (phr) signify/symbolize/convey (v) makes one feel / remind someone of (phr) looks good on someone (phr v) has special meaning (phr) a sense of (security/ peace, etc) (phr)

Idiom be fond of – to like somebody or something so much

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 113

SAMPLE ANSWERS  What was your favorite color when you were a child?

As a child, I remember not being very fussy about color. I loved all of them, and there was no favoritism of any kind toward any color.

There were times when I loved violet, other times red, sometimes yellow and so on.

 Is that still your favorite color now?

Not really. I love black color now. I think black is very mysterious and sophisticated at the same time.

IELTS SPEAKING

 Do you think colors are important?

Well, I think they are. Colors tend to suggest the mood of a person and bring more spark to a particular day. Like, at a wedding, people tend wear bright clothes, and it uplifts the entire mood. I think every color has its own significance, and they bring that significance alive.

 Is color very important for you when buying clothes?

For me, the only thing that matters while buying clothes is that it should look good on me. Color preference is not really a major predetermining factor for me, so I really don’t bother much about the color as long as the dress looks nice on me.

PAGE 114

Part 2 Describe a change in your life.

Describe a change in your life.

You should say

You should say

what is it why do you want to change it how to make it happen why do people change their life

Model Answer

what is it why do you want to change it how to make it happen why do people change their life

Your Answer

I would like to tell you about one of the biggest changes that I made in my life which was the decision to leave my office job and become a police officer.

There are several reasons why I did this.

First of all, I was bored in my office job, and needed a change in profession. To make my dream a reality, I did a research on how to become an officer. Then I applied for acceptance last September, took the tests, passed the physical examination, and quit my office job!

Second, I felt so uncomfortable staying in the office the whole day.

Desk job seemed okay at first, but I couldn’t stand being cooped up all day.

Last but not least, I had to decide whether I could stay in that line of work until the time I age. Sadly, I could not picture myself having a productive time and growing professionally in that field.

For these reasons, I think that many people like me make mid-life changes in their occupations because they grow tired of routines.

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 115

Part 3 Why do some people like change?

What is the difference between change and progress?

Do you think that change is inevitable? Why?

Why do some people like change?

Some people like change because it gives them the opportunity to start something new, especially if they would like to try out different things. Change also creates challenges which some people want to have in their lives since monotony in daily routines can often bring out boredom.

Do you think that change is inevitable? Why? Yes, I think that change is inevitable because changes occur every day and are already part of our life. People cannot choose not to change because the world will change around them and force them to make gradual adjustments, so it’s better that they do not try to fight it.

What is the difference between change and progress?

Change means that there is a difference in something that we are already used to, and can be positive or negative. Progress is also like change, but I believe that differs since it is always a positive development or a step in the right direction.

IELTS SPEAKING

Extra Questions: a) What are some good things that the new education system brings to children? b) Why do people fear change? c) What kind of things cannot be changed in adulthood? d) What events bring about the biggest changes in one’s life?

PAGE 116

Topic 30 Extra Questions:

Part 1 FOOD What’s your favorite food?

Are there any foods you dislike?

What are some traditional food in your country?

Do you follow a healthy diet?

a) b) c) d) e) f)

What is your typical breakfast?

Do you watch your diet carefully?

How important is food to you?

Who usually cooks in your family?

Are you a good cook?

What is your favorite cuisine?

Related vocabulary or expressions 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

appetizing (adj) fattening (adj) wholesome (adj) ready meals (phr) processed food (phr) home-cooked (adj) eat a balanced diet (phr) a quick snack (phr) regional cooking (phr) mouth-watering (adj)

Idiom to foot the bill – to pay the bill

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 117

SAMPLE ANSWERS  What is your favorite food?

I would have to say that it’s definitely steak. It’s quite expensive, so it’s a real treat when I get the chance to have steak, and I love all the things that come with it like pepper sauce, chips, mushrooms, and onions.

 What are some traditional foods in your country?

Everything seems to revolve around potato where I’m from, but there’s much more to Irish cuisine than just one vegetable. If you come to Ireland, you have to try a full Irish breakfast. It’s made up of lots of fried meats, plus a range of bread like wheat, soda, and potato bread, of course.

 Are there any foods you dislike?

I like most foods, but if I had to pick one I don’t like, it would have to be vegetables, especially green ones like broccoli or cabbage.

They are either tasteless or really bitter. Sometimes though, I try to force them down when I have to because they are very healthy.

IELTS SPEAKING

 Do you have a healthy diet?

No, not at all. I like all things that are unhealthy like sweets, fatty foods, and junk food. I don’t really have a lot of discipline when it comes to my diet which is probably why I’m a little overweight.

PAGE 118

Part 2 Describe some good advice you were given.

Describe some good advice you were given.

You should say

You should say

what was it who gave it to you what was the result after listening to the advice what did you feel when you were given the advice

Model Answer

what was it who gave it to you what was the result after listening to the advice what did you feel when you were given the advice

Your Answer

I would like to tell you about an advice I got from my parents which was not to be afraid to get my hands dirty.

There are several reasons why I consider this an important advice.

First of all, I grew up in a very hard-working household. I hated doing chores around the house. I just wanted to go outside the house and play with my friends! As I got older, I began to realize how hard my parents worked and how much they appreciated the help that my sisters and I gave around the house.

Second, despite still hating house chores, it felt so good to see my parents’ happy face after finishing housework. They could relax after working so hard during the day. This taught me to focus on others’ feelings.

Last but not least, I fully understood the importance of my mother’s advice when I landed my first job. My hard work was appreciated, and I took pride in my accomplishments at work.

For these reasons, my mother’s advice resulted in turning me into a hard worker that is happy to get their hands dirty.

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 119

Part 3 Why do people love to give advice but not actually do it themselves?

What is the best advice you have ever given to anyone?

Do you always follow the advice you give other people?

Why do people love to give advice but not actually do it themselves?

Sometimes, it is easier to say things than to do them especially if we are not in the same situation as the other people. We do not always adhere to the advice that we give either making us hypocritical, so it is important to pay attention to the things that we say to people.

What is the best advice you have ever given to anyone?

The best advice I ever gave was not to lie. I gave this to my friend who failed an exam in school and didn't want to tell her parents. I told her to tell them how hard she tried, and in the end, they weren't mad after all and appreciated her honesty.

IELTS SPEAKING

Do you always follow the advice you give other people?

No, there are some things that are easier said than done, and I simply cannot follow the advice. For example, it is easy to give a piece of advice about getting good grades in school, but it is sometimes hard to get good grades yourself when life gets in the way.

Extra Questions: a) Why do young people don’t accept advice from others? b) What could be the possible danger in following other people’s advice? c) Why do people get advice after making mistakes? d) How has giving advice changed?

PAGE 120

Topic 31 Extra Questions:

Part 1 WEATHER Tell me about your country’s climate.

What’s your favorite kind of weather?

Does the weather influence your mood?

Is it worse to feel too hot or too cold?

a) b) c) d) e) f) g)

What’s the weather normally like where you live?

Is the weather the same in all parts of your country?

Do you like rainy days?

What effects does the weather have on people?

Is there any part of your country where it doesn’t rain much?

How does the weather affect transportation in your hometown?

Has the weather changed much in the past few years?

Related vocabulary or expressions 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

climate (n) humid (adj) chilly (adj) changeable / unpredictable (adj) scorching hot (adj) torrential rain (phr) average temperature (phr) bitterly cold (phr) clear blue skies (phr) weather forecast (phr)

Idiom rain or shine – no matter what the weather is

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 121

SAMPLE ANSWERS  Tell me about your country’s climate.

We have an extreme climate. Our winters are absolutely freezing and our summers are scorching hot. That means that the people, the houses, the transport system, and everything needs to be prepared to cope with every kind of weather.

 Does the weather influence your mood?

Yes, it certainly does. It’s the rain that influences my mood the most. I hate it when it’s raining – it makes me feel so down. It’s hard to go out without being drenched. And the sky is so dismal and overcast. It’s miserable!

 Is it worse to feel too hot or too cold?  What’s your favorite kind of weather?

What I like most is hot, dry weather. I love being able to sit outside on a balmy summer night with a drink, rather than cooped up inside like you are in the winter.

IELTS SPEAKING

Well, I suppose if it’s too cold you can just wear more layers, but nevertheless I prefer to be too hot. At least it means the weather is good, and you can always go for a swim to cool down. What I really can’t stand is being cold and wet. That’s the worst combination, and it makes me worry that I’m going to catch a cold.

PAGE 122

Part 2 Describe an interesting historical place.

Describe an interesting historical place.

You should say

You should say

what it is where it is when you saw it why you think it is an interesting place

Model Answer

what it is where it is when you saw it why you think it is an interesting place

Your Answer

I would like to tell you about one of the interesting historical places I visited in 2006 which was the Taj Mahal located in India.

There are several reasons why I consider this so.

First of all, a former emperor had it built as a monument for his lovely wife back in 1630 A.D. It is made out of marble and took 22 years and 20,000 workers to complete. This, to me, is considered one of the coolest and greatest displays of affection.

Second, one of the most captivating things about the Taj Mahal is the way its color appears to change as the light of day varies. We went in at about 6am to see the sun rise, the most popular time to visit. It was interesting to see how it captured and reflected the rays of the sun.

Last but not least, we wanted to experience everything and most people said our trip would not be complete without visiting that monument. Everything was worth it.

For these reasons, I consider it an amazing place, not only because of its beauty but also because it is dedicated to the love between two people.

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 123

Part 3 Through what ways do you get to know history?

Are history courses important to students?

Do you agree on how some dramas or movies change history?

Through what ways do you get to know history?

People can learn history through books, magazines, and visits to historical places in addition to history class in school. Nowadays, the public can also learn about history through television or from movies at the cinema as many documentaries deal with significant historical persons and events.

Are history courses important to students?

Yes, history courses are important because they make students appreciate what they have at present because of what happened in the past. History courses increase nationalism and make those who study it aware of the sacrifices made by the founding people of their country for their freedom.

IELTS SPEAKING

Is it okay for some dramas or movies to change history?

No, I don’t think that it is right for directors, writers, and actors to change the course of history on dramas or movies. Most of young people watch and learn from them, so it is only right to provide the audience with accurate information as history is not something that should be re-written.

Extra Questions: a) What should governments do to make visiting historical places more interesting? b) Should moviemakers follow history exactly when making movies or change it? Why or why not? c) In what ways can historical places affect tourism? d) What are the advantages and disadvantages of making historical places tourist attractions?

PAGE 124

Topic 32 Extra Questions:

Part 1 PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION What form of transport do you prefer to use?

How often do you take buses?

How much time do you spend travelling on a normal day?

Would you ride bikes to work in the future?

a) b) c) d) e)

Do you often use public transport?

What is your favorite mode of transportation?

Do you like the public transport in your country?

What is the difference between taking a bus and taking a train?

Do you ever have problems with transport?

Related vocabulary or expressions 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

peak/rush hours (phr) traffic jam / congestion (n) ecotourism (n) book / reserve (v) walk on foot (phr) travel facilities (phr) a wide variety of (phr) exhaust fumes (phr) see the world (phr) travel the distance (phr)

Idiom make your way to – to manage to go to one’s destination without difficulty

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 125

SAMPLE ANSWERS  What form of transport do you prefer to use?

 How much time do you spend travelling on a normal day?

I have to commute from my home to my workplace on a daily basis.

It normally takes me 30 minutes to travel back and forth.

Without any doubt, I would say motorbikes. You can see people driving a motorbike all over the place in my country. Almost everyone travels by motorbike. I think this is so popular due to their reasonable price and convenience. They are also extremely varied in terms of size, color, and quality, thus a wide variety of choices is available for everyone.

 Would you ride bikes to work in the future?

 How often do you take buses?

Almost every day. Since my house is so far away from my university, it’s impossible for me to travel by motorbike. In addition, the air is heavily polluted due to exhaust fumes and traffic jams always take place especially during peak hours. Thus, I’d prefer to take the bus to save time, save gasoline, and cause less pollution.

IELTS SPEAKING

Definitely not. Riding a bike means you’re exposing yourself to the unpredictable weather and to air pollution. What is worse, I’m afraid the main streets or the highway are too dangerous for cyclists as cars, motorbikes, and buses travel at a very high speed.

Thus, I’d rather ride a motorbike or take the bus instead.

PAGE 126

Part 2 Describe a place you recently visited as a tourist.

Describe a place you recently visited as a tourist.

You should say

You should say

where you went who you went with what you did there why you chose to go to this place

Model Answer

where you went who you went with what you did there why you chose to go to this place

Your Answer

I would like to tell you about one of the recent places I had been to which was the Calgary Stampede in Canada.

There are several reasons why I chose this place for our trip.

First of all, I had always been interested in rodeo so when I heard that Canada had “the world’s largest rodeo”, I decided to make my trip worthwhile.

Second, it had many interesting showcases. There was a carnival, a concert area, animals, and food stands. In the front of the Stampede entrance, my boyfriend and I were surrounded by a sea of cowboy hats. We bought our rodeo tickets and headed into the grandstand where bronco riding was at center stage.

Last but not least, I loved the excitement of it all which was the main reason we chose to go! After the rodeo, we decided to go check out the First Nations area. We were lucky enough to witness the tribal dance competitions.

For these reasons, the entire experience of the Stampede was amazing and worth the trip!

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 127

Part 3 What kind of trouble might one encounter during a journey?

Is travelling with a tour guide good?

Which is better, going on a vacation in one’s own country or in another?

What kind of trouble might one encounter during a journey?

The usual problem that one experiences is getting lost especially in a place you are not familiar with. It can be very beneficial to ask local people for directions since you can get lost quite quickly even if you have a map.

Is travelling with a tour guide good?

For me, it is good to have a tour guide while traveling because they are already familiar with the place you are going to. There is less risk of getting lost with a tour guide, and they could also provide information that you do not know about the place.

IELTS SPEAKING

Which is better, going on a vacation in one’s own country or in another?

In my opinion, it is better to go on a vacation in one’s own country before going to another. It is important to be familiar with your own country first and appreciate its beauty. However, once you have fully explored it, you should travel elsewhere.

Extra Questions: a) Would you go back to a place you have already travelled to? Why? b) How will people’s attitude towards tour guides change in the future? c) What measures has the government taken to protect tourist attractions? d) How will travelling be in the future?

PAGE 128

Topic 33 Extra Questions:

Part 1 CLOTHES & FASHION Are clothes and fashion important to you? (Why or why not) What different clothes do you wear for different situations?

Do you wear different styles of clothes now compared to 10 years ago?

Do you think the clothes we wear say something about who we are?

a) b) c) d) e) f)

What types of clothes do you like?

How do people choose what style of clothing to buy?

Do you think the brand of clothing is important?

Why do some people buy branded clothes?

Would you ever spend a lot of money on clothes?

Do men and women have the same shopping habits?

Related vocabulary or expressions: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

garments (n) accessories (n) be on trend (phr) casual (adj) designer label (phr) fashion icon (phr) look good in (phr v) suit someone (phr) must-have (n) keep up with the latest fashion (phr)

Idiom dressed for the occasion – wear clothes suitable for a particular event

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 129

SAMPLE ANSWERS  Are clothes and fashion important to you? (Why or why not?)

Well, to an extent, they are important. I like to wear clothes that suit my personality. However, I don’t always go after the latest fashion or trend. I tend to wear clothes that are comfortable and practical rather than fashionable.

 What different clothes do you wear for different situations?

Well, I have to dress quite formally for work, so I wear a blouse with blazers and trousers. At home, I prefer to wear jeans and a T-shirt, and on special occasions, I might wear a long evening dress.

IELTS SPEAKING

 Do you wear different styles of clothes now compared to 10 years ago?

No, not really because I don’t follow the latest fashion. I think I have dressed in a similar way for the last ten years.

 Do you think the clothes we wear say something about who we are?

Yes, they probably do. Some people are really careful about what they wear because they want to be as stylish as possible. Other people wear clothes that show wealth or status, such as clothes made by famous designers.

PAGE 130

Part 2 Describe your favorite place in your hometown.

You should say where it is what you do there what it looks like why it is a special place for you

Model Answer

Describe your favorite place in your hometown.

You should say where it is what you do there what it looks like why it is special place for you

Your Answer

I would like to tell you about one of my favorite places which is the Star Dome Observatory in my hometown, Auckland, New Zealand.

There are several reasons why I consider it special.

First of all, it is a very special place for me because it is where my husband asked me to marry him. I love the view in the dome because it is unique. My husband’s proposal made me love the place even more.

Second, the dark skies above provide a gorgeous night view, rain or shine. When you are there, you can look through the big telescopes and see planets, stars glowing, nebulae, and lunar craters.

Last but not least, it has a 360-degree sky planetarium theatre to sit and enjoy the stars. My favourite show there is called “Dragon Skies”, and it exhibits some of the ancient Chinese Constellations from antiquity right through to the present day.

For these reasons, the Star Dome is special in more ways than one.

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 131

Part 3 What are the benefits of studying in the city?

What are the major differences between living in the city and the countryside?

Why do some people dislike using public transportation?

What are the benefits of studying in the city?

Schools found in cities often have better quality of education, so students benefit from this. Cities often have good facilities like classrooms and libraries needed for learning, and bigger budgets for better professors, as well as more well-known schools that are highly regarded by companies when hiring.

What are the major differences between living in the city and the countryside?

Life in the city is very busy and often noisy because there are a lot of things going on even at night as compared to the countryside.

Conversely, life in the countryside is very peaceful and calm and differs from the city because it is somewhere you can relax and refresh yourself with the natural setting.

IELTS SPEAKING

Why do some people dislike using public transportation?

There could be a number of reasons why some don’t like such mode of transportation. Personally, I don’t like using public transportation because of the number of people also using it. It can be stressful to ride buses or the subway during the rush hour, and I prefer the cleanliness, quiet and solitude of my car.

Extra Questions: a) What place is popular in your hometown? Why is it popular? b) Why do people move from the countryside to big cities nowadays? c) What are the advantages and disadvantages of living in cities and in the countryside? d) What are some of the problems living in large cities and how will they be solved in the future?

PAGE 132

Topic 34 Extra Questions:

Part 1 ANIMALS Do you like animals?

What is your favorite animal? Why? Are people in your country fond of animals?

What kinds of animals do people have as a pet in your country?

a) Have there been changes concerning pets in your country / hometown? b) What animals do children like? c) Do you think raising animals is important? d) Do you think cities are suitable places for keeping a pet?

Related vocabulary or expressions: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

breed (n) domestic (adj) wild (adj) vet (n) zoo (n) impressive (adj) endangered animal (phr) hunt (v) wildlife (n) take the pet outside for a walk (phr)

Idiom break one’s heart – be extremely sad

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 133

SAMPLE ANSWERS  Do you like animals?

I would say I don’t hate them. I am not very much of an animal lover but I like them if they exist and I am able to see them. But, owning an animal might be something I won’t prefer.

 What is your favorite animal?

I love cows a lot. I think they bring in a lot of peace and care in a house. You see them, they rarely make any noise and still for some reasons when I look into their eyes, it feels very peaceful and lovely.

IELTS SPEAKING

 Are people in your country fond of animals?

Yes, they are. People in my country love animals. You could find a dog or a cow owned by a family. And it is not for any monetary reasons but because they like being around them and caring for them. Animals to a certain extent do bring happiness and togetherness in a family.

 What kinds of animals do people have as a pet in your country?

As a pet, most of the people have dogs in their house. Dogs are preferred over other animals because firstly they are very friendly and loyal to their owner. Also, they help with guarding the house against all possible dangers.

PAGE 134

Part 2 Describe the clothing that you wear on special occasions.

Describe the clothing that you wear on special occasions.

You should say

You should say

when you wear it what it looks like where you bought it why you wear it on special occasions

Model Answer

when you wear it what it looks like where you bought it why you wear it on special occasions

Your Answer

I would like to tell you about my wedding gown.

There are several reasons why I consider this special.

First of all, it is every woman’s dream to wear a wedding gown, and I was very excited to wear mine 2 years ago. Gowns are usually made from white fabric to express purity. My dress is all white with a small veil and a 10-foot train which my mother and I bought at a boutique downtown.

Second, throughout history, a bride’s white dress has been the focal point of wedding celebrations. On my wedding day, people complimented me for my dress, and I have to admit it made me feel extra special on that very special day.

Last but not least, the average woman nowadays does not have traditional clothing to wear on special occasions. Although women can purchase night gowns, wedding gowns are by far more significant.

For these reasons, a wedding gown is the most important article of clothing a woman will ever purchase and wear.

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 135

Part 3 What is the good thing about students wearing uniforms?

What are the downsides of people wearing uniforms in companies?

Should a country’s traditional clothes still be worn today?

What is the good thing about students wearing uniforms?

Uniforms give students an identity and are good as they differentiate schools from each other mainly because of the specific design of each school’s uniform. By having a uniform, the students in a school can feel that they belong and are a part of something, and wearing a uniform focuses their attention on academics rather than fashion.

Should a country’s traditional clothes still be worn today?

Yes, I think that traditional clothing should still be worn today, but only on special occasions to preserve their meaning. If something is worn every day, it tends to lose its value, but if something is worn only on special occasions, then it will make the event more special.

What are the downsides of people wearing uniforms in companies?

It is more difficult for employees to express their individuality when companies make uniforms mandatory, and that is an obvious downside. This lack of individual expression may contribute to less drive amongst employees to suggest ideas to their superiors, thus inhibiting the company to move forward.

IELTS SPEAKING

Extra Questions: a) Why are uniforms compulsory in some companies? b) What influences do traditional clothes have on fashion? c) How have people changed the way they dress over time? d) Is it the government or the schools’ responsibility to preserve the meaning of traditional clothes? Why?

PAGE 136

Topic 35 Part 1

Extra Questions:

FAMILY Tell me something about your family.

What do you like doing most with your family?

Who are you close to in your family?

a) b) c) d)

What does your family usually do on weekends?

Do you like going out with your family? Why? How is spending time with your family different with friends?

How have families changed over the years?

In what way is your family important to you?

Related vocabulary or expressions: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

close-knit family (phr) immediate /extended (adj) family trait (phr) have things in common (phr) squabble with (phr v) get together (phr) bring up / raise (phr v) get on / along with (phr v) age difference (phr) take after / resemble (phr v)

Idiom runs in the family – share a family characteristic

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 137

SAMPLE ANSWERS  Tell me something about your family.

Well, I have a fairly large family. There’s my mother, father, and two sisters. One of my sisters is older than I am. My youngest sister is still at school.

 What do you like doing most with your family?

I like having nice long meals with good food and good wine, and a few jokes for dessert.

IELTS SPEAKING

 Who are you close to in your family?

In my family? Well, I’m close to my Uncle James. He’s a chef. He’s hilarious, always telling jokes, and he’s very enthusiastic about everything he does. We spent a lot of time together when I was growing up. In fact, he helped to bring me up.

 In what way is your family important to you?

My family is everything to me. They are my best friends; they support me when things aren’t going well and when things are going well. I know they’ll always be there for me no matter what.

PAGE 138

Part 2 Describe a piece of music you liked when you were a child.

Describe a piece of music you liked when you were a child.

You should say

You should say

what was the song what was the style where you heard it why you still remember it

Model Answer

what was the song what was the style where you heard it why you still remember it

Your Answer

I would like to tell you about one of the songs I listened to when I was a child which was called “Five Little Monkeys”.

There are several reasons why I remember this particular song among others.

First of all, I first heard the song at school, and liked it immediately because it was about silly little monkeys that jumped on their bed.

Since it was a kind of nursery rhyme, it was easier for me to remember this song.

Second, I’ll always remember it because from those days forward our father called my sisters and me his “Three Little Monkeys.”

When it was time to go to sleep at night, my Dad would tuck my sisters and I into our beds, give us a kiss, and then tell us to go to sleep. As soon as he had turned off the lights, the three of us would stand and start jumping on the bed and sing very loudly. Last but not least, we had a lot of very good memories because of this song.

It reminds me of my childhood days.

For these reasons, I liked this song more than the others.

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 139

Part 3 Do you think that some types of music are too noisy?

What is the difference between the music today and the music in the past?

What type of music should people listen to?

Do you think that some types of music are too noisy?

Yes, there are genres of music that I find particularly noisy like punk, rock, metal, and alternative. These generally involve heavy guitars and drums and sometimes have screaming vocalists, which is too much for my ears to handle.

What is the difference between the music today and the music in the past?

I think that the music in the past was generally simpler and more melodious, while the music today is more complicated. Most lyrics were repetitive and the songs were easy to sing along to in the past, while today, some lyrics are either difficult to understand or do not make sense.

IELTS SPEAKING

What type of music should people listen to?

I think that most people should listen to mellow music regardless of their age and gender. Mellow music helps ease stress and relaxes people, and examples of this music that people should listen to include love songs and acoustic songs.

Extra Questions: a) Why do people have different tastes in music depending on their age? b) How can teaching music to children help them in their early childhood? c) Do you enjoy listening to traditional music? Why or why not? d) How has western music influenced eastern music?

PAGE 140

Topic 37 Part 1

Extra Questions: HOBBIES When do you get time to pursue your hobbies?

How have your hobbies benefited you?

What type of hobbies do people of your generation usually have?

Why do hobbies keep changing from generation to generation?

a) b) c) d) e)

What do you like doing in your spare time?

What do teenagers like doing in your country?

What do you like about your hobby?

How much time do you spend on your hobby?

Are there any new hobbies that you would like to take up?

Related vocabulary or expressions: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

pastime (n) physical (adj) slow (adj) aggressive (adj) boring (adj) breathtaking (adj) spare time (phr) like or be mad about something (phr) join a club (phr) do a bit of / a lot of (v-ing) (phr)

Idiom take up something – to start a hobby for the first time

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 141

SAMPLE ANSWERS  When do you get time to pursue your hobbies?

My hobbies are reading books and listening to music. I can pursue both at my workplace and at my home. I get some breaks a few minutes at my office to pursue my hobbies. However, I get more time for the same at home during weekends and on holidays.

 How have your hobbies benefited you?

My hobbies have given me immense benefits. Reading books has helped me understand life with a better insight. I have learned and implemented the knowledge from books both in my life and in my profession which has enhanced my success at all levels. Next, music has always kept me refreshed and energized, which is very important for someone in the teaching profession.

IELTS SPEAKING

 What type of hobbies do people of your generation usually have?

People of my generation prefer to read books, listen to music, travel, watch movies, and so on. Besides, there are a few activities emerging as hobbies too like surfing and chatting on the internet as well as playing games on mobile phones and computers.

 Why do hobbies keep changing from generation to generation?

I think changes in lifestyle and advancements in technology are instrumental behind the shift in hobbies over generations. They offer more options for people to choose from and to pursue. For example, we can use the Internet as a means to pursue our hobby, which a few decades ago was not available at all.

PAGE 142

Part 2 Describe an important stage in your life you would like to share.

You should say when it happened where you lived at that time what happened during that period why you think it is important

Model Answer

Describe an important stage in your life you would like to share.

You should say when it happened where you lived at that time what happened during that period why you think it is important

Your Answer

I would like to tell you about my youth which has greatly influenced me as an adult.

There are several reasons why I consider this stage in my life important.

First of all, that period taught me that life is not fair. There were so many times that I cried after losing a game because I could not accept defeat. We don’t always get what we want but we should appreciate what we have.

Second, we don’t live as kings or queens forever. I didn’t have to worry about my basic needs during my childhood in Los Angeles.

Everything was provided. It was quite difficult to satisfy my needs though when I was in university because I had to live separately from my family. This taught me independence.

Last but not least, mistakes help us to be stronger. I made a lot of mistakes in my youth and thanks to my parents, these became learning experiences which guided me in my decisions and helped me to be wiser.

For these reasons, youth is so important because it is the time in life when we learn the most and have the most energy and excitement about what the future might hold.

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 143

Part 3 Do you think that marriage is an important stage in one’s life?

What has been the most significant event in your life so far?

What are the best things about your age?

What are the best things about your age?

The best thing about being my current age is that I see it as inbetween stage. I feel like I am not too young nor am I too old, and there are many opportunities for me now that I have recently graduated, so it’s an exciting age.

Do you think that marriage is an important stage in one’s life?

I don’t believe that marriage is necessary, but it solidifies the commitment to love for many people. Finding a person to share your life with is an important stage of life, but I don’t believe that two people have to be married to express that love.

What has been the most significant event in your life so far?

The most significant event in my life so far would have to be my college graduation. After four years of hard work in school, it both felt great and served as a “thank you” gift for my parents who sacrificed for my education.

IELTS SPEAKING

Extra Questions: a) Do you think the legal age should be lower? Why? b) At what age should children start to take on family responsibilities? c) In what ways have our perception about adulthood changed? d) When was the most enjoyable part of your life and what made it unforgettable?

PAGE 144

Topic 37 Part 1 FESTIVALS When did you last go to a festival?

How do people celebrate festivals in your country?

What special foods are associated with festivals in your country?

Do you think festivals are important for the society?

Extra Questions: a) b) c) d)

Are there any special local festivals where you live?

Which festival do you enjoy the most?

How do you celebrate New Year?

Do you think it is important to have local festivals?

Related vocabulary or expressions: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

celebration (n) tradition (n) ritual (n) feast (n) festive (adj) customary (adj) rich tradition (phr) cultural heritage (phr) pay one’s respect to (phr) dates back to (phr)

Idiom make merry – drink and eat

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 145

SAMPLE ANSWERS  When did you last go to a festival?

A week ago, we celebrated the Soul Festival held at shrines. You’ll see numerous lanterns lit all the way to the shrine at night. There were also various events and performances such as traditional dances which are scheduled daily in the precincts of the shrine over the duration of the festival.

 What special foods are associated with festivals in your country?

Each festival has its own food. In some areas in India, on the first day, rice is eaten with fried chickpea patties known as vada. In other areas, people drink bhang which is an alcoholic drink made from rosewater and dried fruits. Sweet dumplings filled with khoya and dried fruits called gujjias are served as desserts. There are so many more festivals and so much more that people actually do.

 How do people celebrate festivals in your country?

Festivals are truly the time when people come back home and celebrate with their family and friends. People dress up according to the occasion and cook delicacies, invite friends over, and have family quality time. Almost all festivals in our country start with a prayer after which the gathering takes place.

IELTS SPEAKING

 Do you think festivals are important for the society?

Definitely. Festivals are surely the binding force for the society. In lives of people who are truly dissatisfied, festivals bring out the hope for something good and something new. Most people forget their issues and come together to celebrate a festival. Even more, with prayers being associated with each of the festival, they can bring about so much positivity in life.

PAGE 146

Part 2 Describe an elderly that you admire.

You should say who the person is how you know this person what kind of person he or she is why you respect this person

Model Answer

Describe an elderly that you admire.

You should say who the person is how you know this person what kind of person he or she is why you respect this person

Your Answer

I would like to tell you about one of the elderly I admire who happens to be my English teacher when I was in junior high, Mrs. Kim. There are several reasons why I respect her.

First of all, she was my favorite English teacher. Compared to my other teachers who were old and boring, her bubbly personality shined. Mrs. Kim’s charisma won everyone’s heart soon after she began teaching us.

Second, she knew how to handle students well. As she was not our first English teacher, everyone in the classroom was skeptical at first. Sensing our doubts, she put the curriculum aside that day and got to know us. She wanted to know about our personal aspirations, likes and dislikes, and the history of our English class.

We had fun.

Last but not least, she had a way of making the class interesting.

Not a lot of students find grammar interesting. With her however, she found ways to make it easy to learn. Thanks to her, I have developed my interest in the English language.

For these reasons, I consider her a model of an excellent teacher, and I have the utmost respect for her.

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 147

Part 3 Why is it important to be respectful to the elderly?

What do you think about old people living on the streets?

Do you think people above 60 should still work?

Why is it important to be respectful to the elderly?

Do you think people above 60 should still work?

I think that people above 60 years old should retire from work and stay at home. I think that this age is the right time for them to relax and enjoy the fruits of their labor having worked for more than half their lives.

Being respectful to the elderly is important because it just shows that we admire them for all that they have done in their lives. We should also keep in mind that we too will grow old with time and would be respected by younger people just as well.

What do you think about old people living on the streets?

I honestly feel bad when I see old people living on the streets because I worry about their health and safety. I believe local government officials should put up homes that can accommodate homeless elderly people.

IELTS SPEAKING

Extra Questions: a) What’s the living situation of elderly people in your country? b) What are the differences brought about by the generation gap between elderly people and young adults? c) What’s the general attitude towards elderly people in your society? d) Is it better for old people to live with their children or stay in retirement homes?

PAGE 148

Topic 38 Extra Questions:

Part 1 WEEKEND Do you spend all your weekends the same way?

Do men and women do the same things on weekends?

What did you do last weekend?

Do you like working on weekends?

a) b) c) d)

What did you do during your weekends when you were a child?

Will the way you spend your weekends change in the future?

Do you think employees should have to work on weekends?

Do you think weekends are more important to you now than when you were a child?

Related vocabulary or expressions: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

free time (phr) preferences (n) long weekend (phr) live a different life (phr) more/less time for doing something (phr) juggle A and B (phr) time dedicated for doing something (phr) balance of play and work (phr) plan to do something (phr) have some days off (phr)

Idiom put one’s feet up – to relax

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 149

SAMPLE ANSWERS  Do you spend all your weekends the same way?

Well, to a large extent, yes. Since travelling and blogging are very important to me, it is during weekends that I travel to a new place and get to know the local culture and what is important about the place, the history, and changes it has seen since the time it was built.

 Do men and women do the same things on weekends?

Men and women surely do almost the same things on weekends.

But, with other occupations, you can find women mostly doing things related to family while men could be juggling relaxation and work.

IELTS SPEAKING

 What did you do last weekend?

Last weekend, I went on a trip to the beach with some friends.

Since we wanted to enjoy the last days of summer before rainy season officially begins, we thought this last attempt of getting a tan was the best way to spend the weekend.

 Do you like working on weekends?

Definitely not. I would say, work is surely good but I would prefer enhancing other areas of life rather than just doing something similar to what I do on weekdays. Like, I have signed up for a badminton club, so I practice badminton during weekends.

PAGE 150

Part 2 Describe a sports event in your country.

You should say what the game is when and where it is played who the players are why you think it is significant

Model Answer

Describe a sports event in your country.

You should say what the game is when and where it is played who the players are why you think it is significant

Your Answer

I would like to tell you about one particular sport event everybody loves in Korea which is soccer.

There are several reasons why I consider this sport event important.

First of all, Korea’s national soccer team is very good and this has affected people’s interest in playing soccer. In the year 2002, Korea’s national team did very well in the World Cup. Second, there are plenty of good players in the Korean National team. One of them is Park Ji Sung who is the captain of the team and a good leader. He also plays in one of the top teams in the European league. Park Ji Sung is the first Asian player to be playing for a very elite team in Europe.

Last but not least, he played a significant role in making soccer popular in Korea because he is an elite player and a good leader.

For these reasons, soccer has become a significant event due to our national team.

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 151

Part 3 What are the differences between academic and athletic competition?

Is winning a game a good excuse for cheating?

What do you think of athletes who use performance enhancers?

What are the differences between academic and athletic competition?

Competition within the classroom is an intellectual competition while athletic competition differs in that it involves physical skills.

For example, examinations can be considered an intellectual competition amongst student but it is done ultimately for the individual himself, while a basketball game is an athletic competition benefiting the team as a whole.

Is winning a game a good excuse for cheating?

No, there is no excuse for cheating since the only people who do not believe in themselves will cheat in order to win. In the event that a cheater wins, I don’t think that he will fully appreciate his victory knowing that other people deserve it more than he does.

IELTS SPEAKING

What do you think of athletes who use performance enhancers?

I think it is unfair for athletes to use performance enhancers because it is considered a form of cheating. They’re taking advantage of those who rely solely on their abilities to win matches, and athletes should simply train and work hard if they want to win.

Extra Questions: a) Do schools place a strong emphasis on physical education? b) What are the advantages and disadvantages of holding sporting events in schools? c) Do you think it’s a good idea for schools to offer scholarship programs to students in order to encourage them to play sports? d) Should the government put limitations as to the kind of sporting events that should be held in a country?

PAGE 152

Topic 39 Extra Questions:

Part 1 CHILDHOOD What was the best thing about your childhood?

What do you miss most about being a child?

Do you think that children these days have better or worse childhood than your generation? Why? What do you think is most important for a happy childhood?

a) b) c) d) e)

Do you often come into contact with children? Where? When?

What do you do when you are with these children?

Do you get along well with children?

What activities did you like to do when you were a child?

Do children benefit from modern technology?

Related vocabulary and expressions: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

upbringing (n) raise (v) child development (phr) childcare (n) child neglect (phr) emotional security (phr) well-adjusted (adj) overprotective parents (phr) spoiled child (phr) nurture (v)

Idiom in the prime of one’s life – in one’s early years

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 153

SAMPLE ANSWERS  What was the best thing about your childhood?

The best thing about my childhood has to be the fact that I made few but real friends. It was early in life that I had learnt that it is great to have few friends who will stick with you no matter what.

 What do you miss most about being a child?

The best part about being a child is that no one cares how you look because they look at your habits, your eyes, or what you say. There is so much freedom when there is no sophistication or maturity associated with you, not pretending to be otherwise, no one to impress and just living life on your terms in the present with no care about the future.

IELTS SPEAKING

 Do you think that children these days have better or worse childhood than your generation?

I think children these days definitely have better childhood than our generation. Parents are now more aware of working on their children by developing their children’s skills. You can now see children working on things like cricket, music, dance activities, and so on. However, when it comes to development in general, I think our generation’s was better. We were more family-oriented, we had stories to share, we had met our grandparents more often and heard stories from them that’s why we enjoyed life more.

 What do you think is most important for a happy childhood?

The most important thing for a happy childhood is a happy home.

For a child to grow as a happy individual, it is very important that he lives in a home where his parents love each other, and where there is a balanced life.

PAGE 154

Part 2 Describe a television program you enjoy.

You should say what is it who are the main characters what makes the show popular why is it your favorite

Model Answer

Describe a television program you enjoy.

You should say what is it who are the main characters what makes the show popular why is it your favorite

Your Answer

I would like to tell you about one of my favorite shows which happens to be “The Amazing Race”.

There are several reasons why this is my favorite.

First of all, it is a reality TV program showing couples compete in a race around the world to complete tasks in different countries. The last couple to complete the task is eliminated from the race.

Second, the show is popular not only because of the beautiful places around the world that the challengers can visit but also because the viewers can identify with the emotions of the players under pressure.

Last but not least, I particularly enjoy the show because of the host’s charm and composure. He is very attractive, and I would love to be a contestant in that show.

For these reasons, this TV program can entertain and give insight to what people can do under pressure.

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 155

Part 3 How can parents make their children interested in reading?

Do you think that more children read books in the past than today?

How has technology changed the way people read?

How can parents make their children interested in reading?

Parents can introduce their children to illustrated books early on, giving them age-appropriate novels as they grow up. I think that books should be introduced to preschool children so that they can develop a habit of reading prior to kindergarten, which will help these kids enjoy reading.

Do you think that more children read books in the past than today?

Yes, I think that more children read books in the past because there was nothing else to do to keep them busy. Now, a modern child is so preoccupied with watching television that they seem to practice reading at school only, which is quite a shame if you think about it.

IELTS SPEAKING

How has technology changed the way people read?

With technology, we can now download e-books from the Internet and read them through our computers. People no longer need to buy printed copies of books to read their favorite author, which saves shopping time, paper, and ultimately the environment, too.

Extra Questions: a) What changes have happened in the way people read? b) What are the differences between the reading habits of teenagers and the elderly? c) Do you think e-books will eventually overtake printed books? d) How will people’s reading habits change in the future?

PAGE 156

Topic 40 Extra Questions:

Part 1 NAMES How did your parents choose your name?

Does your name have any special meaning?

Is your name common or unusual in your country?

Do you have any special traditions about naming children?

a) b) c) d)

Who usually names babies in your country?

Is it easy to change your name in your country?

What names are popular to give to babies in your country?

What names are most common in your hometown?

Related vocabulary and expressions: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

first name / Christian name / given name (phr) last name / surname / family name (phr /n) maiden name (phr) nickname (n) alias (n) individuality (n) suit one’s personality (phr) named by (phr) pay great attention to (phr) follow the trend (phr)

Idiom google something – find something easily using Google search web search engine.

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 157

SAMPLE ANSWERS  How did your parents choose your name?

To be honest, I am not sure how they chose it. I’ve never asked them but I suppose it was just a name that they both liked, and maybe they thought it suited me.

 Does your name have any special meaning?

Well, it could have, but I don’t know what the meaning is; I’ve never looked it up. Maybe I’ll google it later today. I suddenly wonder about it.

IELTS SPEAKING

 Is your name common or unusual in your country?

I believe that I have quite a common name. I remember that there were two other people with the same name as me in my class at school.

 Do you have any special traditions about naming children?

People in my country pay great attention to their names because they believe that suitable names will bring them good fortune.

Sometimes they even change their names for their business and family purpose.

PAGE 158

Part 2 Describe your best friend.

You should say where did you meet each other when did you k now he/she was your best friend what does he/she look like why he/she is your best friend

Model Answer

Describe your best friend.

You should say where did you meet each other when did you k now he/she was your best friend what does he/she look like why he/she is your best friend

Your Answer

I would like to tell you about one of my best friends who happens to be Mike.

There are several reasons why I consider him so.

First of all, we have been friends for a very long time. Although we went to the same high school, we didn’t officially meet until woodshop class in Grade 10. I remember that the teacher tripped over a garbage can, and we both broke out in laughter. After that, we spent our lunch hour together making fun of what happened, and after that, we became best friends.

Second, I like having him as my friend because he is always on my side and would never betray me. I can tell him anything and he doesn’t judge me harshly or give away my secrets.

Last but not least, we have a lot of things in common. We both love fishing, camping and riding trucks. Although similar in height, he has brown, shaggy hair that reminds me of what a Viking might look like.

For these reasons, I am pretty sure that we will be friends for the rest of our lives.

IELTS SPEAKING

PAGE 159

Part 3 Do you agree that English should be the main language of international exchange?

What are the difficulties in creating a universal language?

How has technology affected the way people can learn language?

Do you agree that English should be the main language of international exchange?

That’s a very interesting question. I’ve never really thought about it before, actually. We all just assume that it should be English, but what other languages could we use? I suppose Chinese is becoming quite an important language, but the pronunciation is too difficult for most people. English is already the main language in universities and businesses, so maybe it should stay that way.

What are the difficulties in creating a universal language?

Do you mean inventing a completely new language? Well, I mean, it’s never done before. There was Latin, of course, which was used by people all over Europe, but I’m not sure if it was really created for that purpose. Actually, I think there used to be a universal language about a hundred years ago. What was it called again, Esperanto? But that disappeared quickly. What I’m trying to say is, I don’t think anyone has ever succeeded in creating a universal language, so I doubt if it will ever be possible in the future.

IELTS SPEAKING

How has technology affected the way people can learn language?

With technology, we can now download e-books, watch videos and use translation method in learning other languages. People no longer need to enroll in a language school or academy, which saves time. But of course, there are certain limits to it such as how to use vocabulary words in the right context and pronounce it correctly with the appropriate intonation.

Extra Questions: a) How important is teaching foreign languages, in your opinion? b) How have people’s attitudes to English changed over the last 50 years in your country? c) What are some of the possible causes for some languages to become extinct and what can be done about it? d) Is it the individual or the government’s responsibility to save a language from extinction?

PAGE 160

REFERENCE

Books: Clark, M. 2014, ‘IELTS Speaking’, Hanoi: Qunyan Press, pp. 25-35.

Ielts School 2010, ‘IELTS Speaking History Book’, Ver.1, Speaking Part1, 2 & 3.

Web sites: Ielts Speaking History Book www.ielts-simon.com www.ieltsliz.com www.ieltsmaterial.com/ielts-speaking-practice www.usingenglish.com