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IELTS Speaking Module

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Updated on Nov 30, 2024, 10:07

Planning to take the IELTS exam but feeling nervous about the Speaking section. It’s totally normal to feel a bit anxious; a lot of people do!
 

Many students find speaking to be one of the trickiest parts of the test since it requires speaking on the spot! But don't worry; with the right approach and practice, you can absolutely nail it!

 

The IELTS Speaking test is a 1:1 interaction between you and the examiner, designed to assess your spoken english skills. Whether you’re talking about your hobbies, giving opinions, or discussing a topic you’ve never heard of before, it’s all about how well you can express your ideas clearly, fluently, and naturally in English. 
 

A strong performance in this section is key to achieving a well-rounded IELTS band score. On this page, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about the IELTS Speaking section.

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1. IELTS Speaking Pattern

The IELTS Speaking test evaluates how well you can communicate in English across different scenarios.

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2. IELTS Speaking Tasks

IELTS Speaking test consists of 3 parts.

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3. IELTS Speaking Band Score

Your IELTS Speaking band score reflects your proficiency in the Speaking section of the IELTS exam.

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1.

IELTS Speaking Pattern

The IELTS Speaking test evaluates how well you can communicate in English across different scenarios. It’s a crucial skill for real-life interactions in English-speaking countries like the UKUSAAustraliaIreland and Canada.
 

The IELTS Speaking test lasts 11–14 minutes and is divided into 3 parts. Each part tests your speaking ability systematically through a series of engaging tasks.

 

You will talk to an examiner on various topics in the IELTS Speaking test. Here are some common topics:
 

  • Personal
  • Hobbies and interests
  • Current Events
  • Travel and holidays
  • Food and drink
  • Technology
  • Education
  • Work
  • Career
  • Hometown

 
Check out: IELTS Speaking topics with answers PDF

 

Note: The IELTS Speaking test is the same for both Academic and General modules.
2.

IELTS Speaking Tasks

As we mentioned, the IELTS Speaking test consists of 3 parts, each testing your communication skills in various contexts as follows.
 

IELTS Speaking Parts Details
Part 1 Introduction and Interview (4-5 min)
Part 2 Long Turn/Cue Card (3-4 min)
Part 3 Two-way Discussion/Follow Up (4-5 min)

 

Let’s discuss each part in detail.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

This part of the test lasts 4-5 minutes. 

 

In the IELTS Speaking part 1, you and the examiner will begin by introducing yourselves. Next, the examiner will ask you two or three general questions about your city or town, job, hobbies and interests, family, and education. 

 

At the start of the test, the examiner will ask:

 

  • Your full name
  • What do you want them to call you
  • Your ID or passport

 

This part of the test is designed to assess your ability to talk about everyday topics and your personal experiences. It's an opportunity for you to express your thoughts and ideas.

 

Here are a few quick tips for Part 1 of the Speaking Test:

 

  • When you enter the room, remember to smile and stay relaxed.
  • Keep your ID ready, and don't be overly formal.
  • Expect 2-3 questions on your hometown, home, studies, or work. Always aim for simplicity and create a positive impression.
  • Then, expect 3-4 questions on one topic and another set of three to four questions on a different topic.  Keep your answers to these questions relatively concise.
  • Aim to spend 10-20 seconds on each answer; don't be concerned if the examiner interrupts you.
  • Most questions will revolve around your life and experiences. While some may require a simple "yes" or "no," try to expand on your answers by adding some details. This can be an effective strategy to showcase your speaking abilities.
Part 2: Individual Long Turn

Part 2 of the test lasts 3-4 minutes. The examiner will give you a task/cue card with a question. A task card is a small piece of paper with specific questions you will have to talk about. There will also be three bullet points to structure your response.

 

This is what a Cue/ Task card will look like:
 

Cue Card/Topic: Describe a Piece of Art You Like

You should say

  • What the work of art is?
  • When did you see it first?
  • What do you know about it?
  • Explain why you like it.

 

You will have a minute to prepare a monologue on the given topic. 

 

Then, you return the task card to the examiner and talk about the topic for 2 minutes. After your talk, the examiner may ask you a few questions at the end.

 

Remember, if you have spoken for two minutes, the examiner may not ask you an extra question.

 

Here are a few quick tips for Part 2 of the Speaking Test:

 

  • Take a moment to gather your thoughts and prepare during the one-minute preparation time.
  • When speaking, maintain a relaxed pace without rushing unnecessarily.
  • Aim to speak for at least one and a half minutes, ensuring you cover the topic comprehensively.
  • Before the test, practice speaking for two minutes to become more comfortable with the timing and content.
Part 3: Two-way Discussions

Part 3 of the Speaking test typically lasts 4-5 minutes. You will be asked further questions about the main topic in part 2. The examiner may also ask questions on some relevant sub-topics of the main topic.
 

For example: 

 

Part 2: Long turn Topics Part 3: In-depth Discussion Topics
Something you own that is important to you Belongings, shopping, advertising, values
A holiday that you really enjoyed Tourism, holiday destinations, travel
An item you would like to buy Shopping, advertising, online shopping, consumerism, manufacturing, clothing

 

You will typically get 4-5 questions and must give longer answers. There is no set word limit for a good part 3 answer, but it should not be too short or too long. 

 

If your answer is too short, you have failed to develop it properly; if it is too long, you may go off-topic and make mistakes. As a rule, you should answer in 3-4 sentences.

 

The questions may contain various themes, concepts, and discussions.

 

Here are a few quick tips for Part 3 of the Speaking Test:

 

  • Be prepared to offer detailed responses during this section.
  • When sharing your opinion, go beyond a simple answer. Provide explanations and justifications for your viewpoint, and consider evaluating the topic.
  • If the examiner interrupts you, don't worry. It won't affect your overall score. Simply pause and stay relaxed as you continue.

 

Try practising with the IELTS Speaking questions and answers given below:
 

3.

IELTS Speaking Band Score

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Your IELTS Speaking band score reflects your proficiency in the Speaking section of the IELTS exam. The score is calculated based on the performance of four test criteria.
 

In the Speaking section, they look at Grammatical Range and Accuracy, Fluency and Coherence, Lexical Resources, and Pronunciation. Each criterion carries equal weight, and your band score averages the marks you received.


IELTS Speaking band score ranges from 0-9, with no negative marking, which is reported in half and whole numbers. It is calculated by deriving the average of all the mentioned criteria.


How Are the Scores Calculated?

 
The IELTS speaking band score calculation can be understood more easily through the example given below.
 

Calculation Score A Score B
Add (7.5+7.0+7.0+7.5) (7+8+7+6)
Divide By 4 4
Overall Score 7.5 (7.25 before round-off) 7

 

  • Add the four scores. 
  • Divide the total by four. 
  • Round the result to the nearest .5 or whole number.
     

For example, if you receive a band score ending with .25, i.e., 7.25, it will be rounded up to the next half band, i.e. 7.5; if you receive a band score ending with .75, for instance, 8.75, it will be rounded up to the next whole band 9.
 

Click here to find out more about the IELTS Speaking band score marking criteria.

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FAQs

Q. What is the IELTS speaking test?

Ans. The IELTS speaking test constitutes a pivotal component of the IELTS examination, aimed at evaluating your proficiency in the English language. It involves a one-on-one interview with a certified examiner who meticulously assesses your ability to communicate in English effectively. Your speaking skills, fluency, vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation are examined during this test.

Q. How long is the IELTS speaking test?

Ans. A. The IELTS speaking test typically lasts approximately 11 to 14 minutes. The duration depends on the examiner's questions and your responses. The test is divided into three distinct parts:
 

  • Part 1: 4 - 5 minutes
  • Part 2: 3 - 4 minutes
  • Part 3: About 4 - 5 minutes

 

Note that exceeding these time limits may result in interruptions from the examiner.

Q. What are the three parts of the IELTS speaking test?

Ans. The three parts of the IELTS speaking test are as follows:

 

  • In Part 1, the examiner starts with introductory questions about your background, such as your name, where you're from, and your studies or job. 
  • Part 2 involves receiving a cue card with a topic and some prompts. You have one minute to prepare and take notes, after which you must speak about the topic for 1-2 minutes. 
  • Part 3 is a deeper discussion based on the topic from Part 2. It focuses on abstract ideas, social issues, and critical thinking.
Q. How is Part 1 of the IELTS Speaking test structured?

Ans. Part 1 of the IELTS speaking test is structured to initiate the conversation gradually. It typically comprises a series of general introductory questions. These questions are centred around familiar topics, including yourself, your home, your studies or occupation, and your interests and hobbies. Part 1 serves the dual purpose of easing you into the speaking test while evaluating your capacity to engage in basic conversational dialogue. It provides a comfortable starting point for both you and the examiner.

Q. How should I prepare for the IELTS Speaking test?

Ans. To prepare effectively for the IELTS speaking test, engaging in regular conversations in English is essential. Practice speaking with friends, language partners, or instructors to enhance fluency. Additionally, consider recording yourself while speaking on various topics and seek feedback from native speakers or qualified language instructors. Educate yourself on common speaking topics, such as hobbies, travel, and everyday experiences, and practice discussing them. This helps improve your ability to express your thoughts clearly and coherently during the test.

Q. Is there a specific format for Part 2 of the IELTS speaking test (Cue Card)?

Ans. Yes, Part 2 follows a structured format. You'll receive a cue card with:
 

  • A topic
  • Three to four prompts related to the topic
  • One minute to prepare.

 

Afterwards, you should speak continuously for 1-2 minutes. Address the prompts and any additional points you wish to add during your response.

Q. What is the purpose of Part 3 in the IELTS speaking test?

Ans. Part 3 aims to assess your ability to engage in in-depth discussions on complex topics related to the subject introduced in Part 2. The questions here require more critical thinking and the ability to express nuanced opinions. Remember that the examiner will not judge you on your knowledge about the topic but on your fluency in communicating your thoughts.

Q. How is the IELTS speaking test scored?

Ans. Your performance in the IELTS speaking test is evaluated based on four criteria:
 

  • Fluency and Coherence: Assesses your ability to speak fluently and connect ideas logically.
  • Lexical Resource: Evaluate your vocabulary and word choice.
  • Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Assesses your use of grammar and sentence structures.
  • Pronunciation: Evaluate your ability to pronounce words clearly and naturally.
     

You will receive a band score from 0 to 9 for each of these criteria, and your overall speaking band score is an average of these four scores.

Q. Can I ask the examiner to repeat a question during the test?

Ans. Yes, it is entirely acceptable and even encouraged to politely ask the examiner to repeat or clarify a question if you do not understand it. The IELTS speaking test aims to assess your English language proficiency, and it's crucial that you fully comprehend the questions to provide accurate responses. However, it's advisable not to overuse this option and only request clarification when genuinely necessary to maintain the flow of the conversation.

Q. Should I use formal or informal language during the IELTS speaking test?

Ans. Using a natural and appropriate mix of formal and informal language during the test is important. Your choice of language should align with the context of the questions. For instance, you can use more formal language when discussing academic topics and informal language when talking about personal experiences.

Q. Can I express my opinion during the test, even if it's different from the examiner's?

Ans. Absolutely, you are encouraged to express your opinions during the IELTS speaking test. In Part 3, you'll be asked to provide well-structured arguments and opinions on various topics. Your ability to do so effectively is a key part of the assessment. Remember that the examiner will not judge you on your knowledge about the topic but on your fluency in communicating your thoughts.

Q. What should I do if I don't know the answer to a question?

Ans. If you encounter a question you're unsure about, it's best to provide a relevant response or explain why you cannot answer. Avoid leaving questions unanswered, as this may negatively affect your score. Showing your ability to communicate effectively, even in challenging situations, is valuable for the IELTS speaking test.

Q. Can I bring notes or use a dictionary during the IELTS speaking test?

Ans. No, you cannot bring any external materials, including notes, dictionaries, or reference materials, into the IELTS speaking test. The test is intentionally designed to evaluate your language skills independently, without the aid of external resources. Your performance in the speaking test relies solely on your language proficiency and knowledge, demonstrating your ability to communicate effectively in English without external assistance.