As an experienced IELTS Speaking examiner, I can share that success in the speaking test requires both strategic preparation and natural communication skills. Let’s explore detailed strategies and sample answers that can help you achieve a high band score.
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Part 1: Introduction and Interview
Common questions examiners frequently ask include topics about your daily life, such as:
“Tell me about your hometown.”
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I come from a vibrant coastal city called Da Nang in central Vietnam. It’s renowned for its beautiful beaches and rapid economic development over the past decade. What I particularly appreciate about my hometown is its perfect balance between urban conveniences and natural beauty.”
Part 2: Long Turn
Cue Card
Describe a journey you would like to take by train
You should say:
- Where you would like to go
- Who you would like to go with
- What you would do during the journey
- And explain why you want to take this particular journey
Scenic train journey through mountain landscapes with panoramic views
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I’ve always dreamed of taking the Trans-Siberian Railway journey from Moscow to Vladivostok. This legendary route spans nearly 9,300 kilometers and traverses seven time zones. I’d love to embark on this adventure with my photography-enthusiast friend because we both share a passion for capturing unique moments.
During the journey, I plan to immerse myself in the local culture by engaging with fellow passengers and sampling regional delicacies at various stops. The journey particularly appeals to me because it offers a unique perspective of Russia’s diverse landscapes, from the vast Siberian wilderness to the picturesque Lake Baikal.”
describe a time when you received helpful feedback
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Examiner: “How do you think train travel will change in the future?”
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I strongly believe that train travel will undergo significant transformations in the coming decades. We’re likely to see the widespread adoption of high-speed magnetic levitation technology, which could revolutionize how we perceive long-distance travel. Moreover, trains will probably become more environmentally sustainable, possibly running entirely on renewable energy sources.”
describe a journey you would like to take by train
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
- Discourse Markers:
- To begin with /ˈbɪˈgɪn wɪð/ (to introduce first points)
- Furthermore /ˈfɜːðəmɔː/ (to add information)
- In essence /ɪn ˈesns/ (to summarize)
- Advanced Collocations:
- To take a measured approach
- To strike a balance
- To draw parallels
describe a time when you learned a valuable lesson the hard way
Examiner’s Tips for Success
- Focus on fluency and natural rhythm
- Use a range of grammatical structures
- Incorporate idiomatic expressions naturally
- Maintain good eye contact
- Develop ideas fully with relevant examples
describe a piece of good news you heard about someone you know well
IELTS speaking test interaction between examiner and candidate
Remember, achieving a high score in IELTS Speaking requires consistent practice and strategic use of advanced language features while maintaining natural communication.
