Content

Face the IELTS exam with confidence!

Part 1: Writing
>> Academic Task 1
>> General Writing Task 2
Part 2: Speaking
>> Lesson 1: Holidays
>> Lesson 2: Relationships
>> Lesson 3: Technology
>> Lesson 4: Sport

IELTS Writing and Speaking

>> Lesson 5: Food

>> Lesson 7: Work
>> Lesson 6: Education
>> Lesson 8: Health
>> Lesson 9: Books and Films
>> Lesson 10: Accommodation
>> Lesson 11: Clothes and Fashion
>> Lesson 12: People Personality and Character
>> Lesson 13: Business
>> Lesson 14: People Physical Appearance
>> Lesson 15: Towns and Cities
>> Lesson 16: Music

April 03, 2015

http://www.ieltsspeaking.co.uk
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* Part1: Writing

IELTS Writing - Academic Task 1

In the IELTS Academic Task 1, you must be able to identify, understand and describe various
types of graphic information. This is considered an important academic skill, because it shows
you can intelligently and clearly interpret and describe data presented in charts, tables, graphs
and diagrams. If you have written your answer very well, even someone who cannot see the
graphic should be able to understand what happened.

3) Line Graph
A line graph plots the changes in data over time:
Ask yourself:

5 Steps to Mastering Academic task 1

To prepare yourself to complete Task 1, follow the five steps below:

1. Learn to recognize and identify different graphic forms, such as line graphs, bar charts,
pie charts, etc.
2. Know what key information, comparisons and trends to look out for.
3. Practice using the specific vocabulary required to describe those trends.
4. Learn how to follow a plan to start, complete and finish your answer. Use sample Task 1
questions, included on this website, to practice writing out a full response. At first, do
not time yourself. Later, once you've got the hang of it, time yourself and make sure you
finish in 20 minutes.
5. Know what NOT to include in your response.
By following the steps above, you will be prepared and confident, no matter what type of
question appears in Task 1 of your actual IELTS exam.

Which is the largest segment?

Which is the smallest segment?
How do the segments compare with each other?

What is the highest level / point?

What is the lowest level / point?
Is there a point till when the trend was increasing or decreasing?
When did the trend change?

4) Tables
A table presents information in different categories, making it easy to compare.
The sample table below shows the percentage of students who came to college on foot, by car,
bicycle or public transportation, at Williams College in the year 2005-2006.
Method of Student Travel to College by Percentage
Look out for the following:

What is the highest figure?

What is the lowest figure?
What is second highest, etc.?

Steps 1 & 2 Identify Types of Charts, Look for Trends

Step 3 Vocabulary of Trends

1) Bar Charts
A bar chart consists of rectangular bars arranged horizontally or vertically from the x or y axis.
The length of a bar shows the values it represents. The values are listed on one axis and each
bar shows what is being measured on the other axis. Bar charts are useful for comparing data.
In studying a bar chart, you may want to look for the following information:

Which is the tallest bar?

Which is the shortest bar?
Have the bars changed over time? How?
How do the bars compare to each other?

To get high marks on the Academic Task 1, you must show the examiner that you know how to
use a range of vocabulary to describe and interpret visual information. You must be able to use
the appropriate verbs, nouns, adjectives and adverbs to provide precise descriptions.
For a detailed list of essential vocabulary, check the section of this website on Vocabulary for
Task 1.
Step 4 Write your answer according to a plan
To be able to complete Task 1 in 20 minutes or less, write your answer according to the
following plan:

2) Pie Chart
A pie charts is a circular chart divided into sectors or pie slices. It presents information in
segments of a circle or pie, which together add up to 100%. Here's an example:
Ask yourself:
2

1. Write one sentence to introduce the subject and graphic.

2. Write one or two sentences to show the relationship between the data or to comment on
the main trend.
3. Write an in-depth description of the information given. Include details from the most
important to the least important, depending on time.
4. Write one sentence to conclude your answer.
3

Step 5 - What not to write

Sample sentences

Only describe the data. Don not give your interpretation of it. You are not being asked why you
think the data in the chart is the way it is, so do not write about that.

The following words and phrases will help you describe trends:

Verbs

Adjectives

sharp
sudden
rapid
abrupt
dramatic
steep
significant
steady
considerable
marked
slight
gentle
gradual

Phrases

Vocabulary
to rise
to increase
to surge
to grow
to peak
to skyrocket
to fluctuate
to vary
to fall
to decrease
to decline
to dip
to dive
to plunge

Nouns

Adverbs

to show an upward trend

to show a downward trend
to hit the highest point
to hit the lowest point
to reach a peak
to show some fluctuation
to fluctuate wildly
to remain stable
to remain static
to remain unchanged

a rise
an increase
a surge
a growth
a peak
a fluctuation
a variation
a period of stability
a plateau
a fall
a decrease
a decline
a dip
sharply
suddenly
rapidly
abruptly
dramatically
significantly
steadily
considerably
markedly
slightly
gently
gradually
wildly

to stay constant
to reach a plateau
to level off
to flatten out
the highest
the lowest
the second highest
the third highest
compared to
compared with
relative to
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There was a substantial increase in the value of stocks on March 15th.

House prices rose dramatically in July.
The number of tourists visiting New York fell sharply in October.
The percentage of students walking to school continued to rise gradually over the ten
year period from 2000-2010.
There was a sharp increase in employee turnover after the strike.
Interest in environmental issues has risen steadily over the last 10 years.

More useful words and phrases

1. Percent the word percent comes after a number
Examples:
More than 25% of the students are from Brazil.
More than 25 percent of the students come from Brazil.
2. Percentage - The word percentage comes after words like the, a, this and that. Often, it
is preceded by an adjective.
Examples:
A small percentage of residents have lived in the building for more than 20 years.
The percentage of students who live on campus has fallen sharply since the fire.
3. For numbers up to ten, write the numbers in words. For numbers over 10, you can write
the numbers in numbers.
Examples:
Five percent of the employees were late this month.
More than 50 percent of the students handed in their assignments late after the long
weekend.
4. If the sentence starts with a number, always write it in words.
Examples: Wrong: 25 students were from China.
Right: Twenty-five students were from China.

Grammar
Take note of the following prepositions which you will need to describe dates, numbers and
comparisons:
Dates
In December,
In 2005,
From 2001-2010,
By 1998,
Between 1965-1969

Numbers
Increase of 25%
Decreased by 10%
Fell from 200 in July to 150 in August

Comparison
Compared to
Compared with
Relative to

Giving Examples

IELTS Writing General Writing Task 2

You have to write a minimum 250-word essay on a topic of general interest. You might have to
solve a problem, present your opinion, or compare differing viewpoints on a given topic.
The usual rules of good essay writing apply. Plan before you write, use varied sentence
structure, utilize linking words to connect ideas, use dynamic and rich vocabulary to put your
thoughts across, be careful of your spelling, capitalization, and punctuation, and organize your
essay into about 4-5 paragraphs. A sample structure is shown below:

For example,

For instance,

such as

In other words,

as

like

that is

namely

To illustrate

To paraphrase

Paragraph 1

Introduction

Restate the topic, indicate your position

Paragraph 2

Body

Main idea, supporting idea, examples

Paragraph 3

Body

Main idea, supporting idea, examples

Similar to

As...as

Paragraph 4

Conclusion

Summarize ideas, restate position

in common

also

Either...or

In the same way,

Neither...nor

At the same time

Just as

resemble

IELTS Writing - Key Words & Expressions

By learning to use common phrases and set expressions, you can add variety and interest to
your writing. You will also be able to write more quickly and effectively during exams, when
time is limited.

Comparing

Contrasting
Of course, you won't need to use all of the expressions on the IELTS. Ideally, you should be
comfortable using at least three or four expressions from each group below, so they come to
mind easily during the IELTS. It is also helpful to have someone call them out so you can test
your spelling. Unfortunately, students sometimes make spelling errors even in these
commonly occurring expressions. Practice sufficiently so you don't lose points unnecessarily
on something that's within your control.
Stating Your Opinion
In my opinion,

According to me,

In my view,

To me,

From my point of view,

I think

It seems to me that

I believe

From my perspective

To my way of thinking

It appears that

I suppose

I realize

I understand

I imagine

I feel
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However,

But

On the contrary,

On the other hand,

Differ from

Nevertheless

Although

Though

Otherwise

Instead

Alternatively,

Even though
Generalizing

Generally,

Generally speaking,

Overall,

On the whole,

In general,

By and large,

It seems to me that

I believe

All in all,

Basically,
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Essentially,

As a rule,

Secondly,

Before

All things considered

For the most part

Thirdly,

After

During

While

To begin with

At the same time

Simultaneously

After this / that

Since

Meanwhile

Afterwards

Following this

When

As soon as

Expressing Certainty
Certainly,

Undoubtedly,

Doubtless,

No doubt,

Definitely,

Of course,
Expressing Partial Agreement

More or less,

To some extent,

Up to a point,

Almost,

In a way,

So to speak,
Showing cause

Adding Information
Furthermore

In addition

Also

And

Moreover

Similarly

Due to

Because

Likewise

As well as

Because of

Owing to

Besides

Too

Even

Whats more

Showing effect

Expressing condition

Therefore,

As a result,

Consequently,

For this reason,

If

Whether

Thus,

So,

In case

Unless

thereby

Eventually,

Provided that

So that

Hence,

The reason why

Marking time

Concluding
To summarize

In conclusion

First,

Last

Lastly,

Finally,

Second,

Lastly,

To conclude with,

In short,

Third,

Then,

Firstly,

First of all,
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Part 2: Speaking
>> Lesson 1: Holidays
IELTS Holiday vocabulary
You probably know the meaning of individual words like flight, tour and view. However,
the key to showcasing your advanced English is to show you are able to use these individual
words in combination with other words to form set phrases and expressions.
Read the following IELTS-style questions and answers below and pay attention to the phrases
in bold. Use the Definitions section at the bottom of the page to check the meaning of any
phrases you dont understand.
Part 1-style questions
Examiner: What kind of holiday do you like?
Miguel: I try to avoid tourist traps I like to get away from it all and prefer going
somewhere off the beaten track last year I had the holiday of a lifetime a two week
wildlife safari in Kenya.
Examiner: What do you like to do when youre on holiday?
Anna: I enjoy visiting the local places of interest I like to go sightseeing and always sign
up for guided tours as its a chance to be shown around and take photographs one of my
hobbies.
Examiner: Do you have many tourists in your country?
Amy: Yes we have a lot of holiday resorts along the coast that are popular with tourists
most people come on package holidays and stay in one of the many hotels and self-catering
apartments.
Part 2-style task
Describe a beautiful place you once visited. You should say:
when you went to this place
where it was
who you went with and say why you liked it so much.
Sally: A few years ago I went on a long weekend to the Lake District in the UK its a very
popular holiday destination in the north of England I went on my own and had a wonderful
time I stayed in a youth hostel and met some really nice people but the most memorable
thing about the holiday were the breathtaking views and lovely picturesque villages it
can get very busy with hordes of tourists so I decided to go out of season in the autumn
the weather was fantastic and the shops were full of local crafts a really great holiday
its certainly not the kind of short break for someone looking for a busy nightlife but if you
want to relax in the middle of stunning landscape I would certainly recommend a holiday to
the Lake District.

Examiner: How do people tend to choose a destination?

Anna: The Internet is a great source of information and high street travel agents are still very
popular thats where I like to go to get holiday brochures for the place Im interested in.
Examiner: People sometimes say flying is the most glamorous form of travel. Do you agree?
Amy: Im not so sure really flying can be quite boring queuing up at the check-in desk
going through passport control sitting for ages in the departure lounge then the
flight itself can be quite uncomfortable no Im not sure I agree.
Definitions
all-in package/package holiday: a holiday where you purchase the travel and
accommodation together
breathtaking view: an extremely beautiful view
charter-flight: a cheaper form of flying than a scheduled flight
check-in desk: the place at the airport where you register for your flight and deposit your
luggage
departure lounge: where you wait for your flight to be called
far-off destination: somewhere a long way away
to get away from it all: to take a holiday to escape a busy or stressful lifestyle
guided tour: an organised group shown around a place of interest by an expert
holiday brochure: a glossy publication with details of holiday packages
holiday destination: where you go for a holiday
holiday of a lifetime: a special holiday that you are unlikely to repeat
holiday resort: a place where lots of people go for a holiday
hordes of tourists: crowds of tourists
local crafts: objects produced locally
long weekend: an extended weekend holiday including Friday or Monday
out of season: outside of the main holiday period
picturesque village: very pretty village
passport control: the place where your passport is checked
places of interest: sites of interest to tourists
wildlife safari: a holiday, often in Africa, to observe wild animals
self-catering: a holiday where you supply your own food
short break: a short holiday
to go sightseeing: to look around the tourist sites
stunning landscape: extremely beautiful countryside
travel agent: a shop that specialises in booking holidays
tourist trap: somewhere where too many tourists go
youth hostel: a cheap form of accommodation

Part 3-style questions

Examiner: What do you think has led to the growth in the tourist industry?
Miguel: Its much easier and affordable to travel now nowadays you can get cheap charterflights or all-in packages to somewhere near or to a far-off destination.
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>> Lesson 2: Relationships

IELTS Relationships vocabulary
Read the following IELTS-style questions and answers below and pay attention to the phrases
in bold. Use the Definitions section at the bottom of the page to check the meaning of any
phrases you dont understand.
Part 1-style questions
Examiner: Do you see your friends very often?
Louisa: Yes we meet up most weekends we all get on really well and have a lot in
common so were always happy doing the same things and going to the same places.
Examiner: What do you like about your close friends?
Anna: I think we enjoy each others company we see eye-to-eye on most things so we
rarely fall out with each other.
Examiner: Have you known each other long?
Amy: Most of them yes although my closest friend Carrie we struck up a relationship
at college and got on like a house on fire but yes my other friendships go back years to
when we were at school.
Part 2-style task
Describe a person you are very close to. You should say:
who this person is
when you met them
where you met them and say what it is about them you like so much.
Reiko: Id like to talk about my boyfriend Jose we got to know each other at University
almost 4 years ago we were in the same department initially we were just good
friends and used to go out in a group with our other friends when Jose went back to Spain
for the holidays we would keep in touch with each other then one year he invited me to
come to Spain with him and thats when we fell for each other I think so you couldnt
really say it was love at first sight as it had been over a year since wed met but we really
hit it off and by the time we got back to university in September we were able to tell all our
friends that we were in a relationship what do I like about Jose well hes very kind
very funny and very supportive and were really well matched in our interests he
hasnt popped the question yet though weve talked about getting married and I think
were both ready to settle down and have children well just have to wait and see
Part 3-style questions
Examiner: Do you think marriage is still as important as ever?
Cristine: Yes it certainly is in my country I think the problem for some people is a lack
of commitment all relationships have their ups and downs . but some people prefer to
break up rather than working at the relationship.
Examiner: What do you think is the ideal time to get married?
Terry: Personally I think you should wait until youve found yourself first decided if you
want a career perhaps do some travelling you should do this before tying the knot
although if you fall head over heels in love plans like these can easily be forgotten.
Examiner: Is it important to keep in contact with our friends when were in a relationship?
Maria: Absolutely its so easy to drift apart from your friends when you fall in love but
I think both partners should try not to lose touch with their friends thats the best way to
have a healthy relationship with your partner.
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Definitions
to break up: to end a romantic relationship
to drift apart: to become less close to someone
to enjoy someones company: to like spending time with someone
to fall for: to fall in love
to fall head over heels in love: to start to love someone a lot
to fall out with: to have a disagreement and stop being friends
to get on like a house on fire: to like someones company very much indeed
to get on well with: to understand someone and enjoy similar interests
to get to know: to begin to know someone
to go back years: to have known someone for a long time
to have a lot in common: to share similar interests
to have ups and downs: to have good and bad times
a healthy relationship: a good, positive relationship
to hit it off: to quickly become good friends with
to be in a relationship: to be romantically involved with someone
to be just good friends: to not be romantically involved
to keep in touch with: to keep in contact with
to lose touch with: to not see or hear from someone any longer
love at first sight: to fall in love immediately you meet someone
to pop the question: to ask someone to marry you
to see eye to eye: to agree on a subject
to settle down: to give up the single life and start a family
to strike up a relationship: to begin a friendship
to tie the knot: to get married
to be well matched: to be similar to
to work at a relationship: to try to maintain a positive relationship with someone

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>> Lesson 3: Technology

The subject of Technology frequently comes up in the IELTS Speaking exam. You may be
asked to talk about something you own, your favourite websites, how technology has impacted
on education etc. Youll need to show the examiner your ability to express yourself using as
wide a range of vocabulary as possible.
Read the following IELTS-style questions and answers below and pay attention to the phrases
in bold. Use the Definitions section at the bottom of the page to check the meaning of any
phrases you dont understand.
Part 1-style questions
Examiner: Do you enjoy using technology?
Stephan: Well I wouldnt call myself a techie or a computer buff but I enjoy using
computers Id like to find out more about how they work when my computer crashes I
never know what to do.
Examiner: Do you use the Internet for your studies?
Sophie: Yes Id be lost without it I do lots of video conferencing to practise speaking
and social media like Facebook is a good way to meet up with other students and I
download podcasts that teach English vocabulary and grammar.
Examiner: Do you have your own computer?
Tania: Yes I have a Macbook Pro I use it all the time for word processing
browsing websites and catching up with TV programmes Ive missed.
Part 2-style task
Describe an item of technology you have that is very important. You should say:
what the technology is
when you got it
how often you use it and say how different your daily life would be without it.
Mattie: I dont have many gadgets just a computer a laptop and my mobile phone but
Ill talk about my computer as its so useful its funny really 2 years ago I was still
learning to use computers how to use email send attachments how to access websites
then I decided to do a digital editing course for video and photography and so I bought
the laptop when I started the course my husband had a desktop PC but it was very slow so
I decided to upgrade to a powerful one because we do a lot of video editing on the course
its a high-spec laptop very fast the latest operating system it boots up really
quickly and its fun to use so it makes working a pleasure Ive become a competent
computer user now if I didnt have it I daresay Id have to spend more time at college using
their computers but on the positive side I suppose Id read a lot more if I didnt have it I
probably waste a lot of time surfing the web but hopefully I wont have to be without it
Part 3-style questions
Examiner: What do you think are the important things people need to learn when they start
using computers?
Alejandro: Well there are things like how to use the Internet how to enter a web
address how to navigate websites that kind of thing but its also important to know how
to back up your files in case your computer crashes and all about Internet security.
14

Examiner: What kind of technological developments have made the biggest impact on our
lives?
Faydene: In my lifetime it has to be the Internet of course but I also think wifi has made a huge
difference to how we interact with the Internet wireless networks at home and public wifi
hotspots mean we can go online easily access our mail log into our work intranet and
basically be connected wherever we are.
Examiner: Do computers make it much easier to study?
Jane: Definitely yes researching information is much easier with the Internet .. you can
bookmark webpages for future reference and writing essays is much easier being able to
cut and paste sections of text means you can experiment with organisation so yes
compared to years ago when you had a pile of books on your desk and a pen and paper .. its
now much easier.
Definitions
to access websites/email: to locate
to back up files: to make a copy of files in case of a computer problem
to boot up: to start a computer
to bookmark a webpage: to mark a webpage for future reference
to browse websites: to look at websites
a computer buff: an expert computer user
to crash: to suddenly stop working
to cut and paste: to move text or images from one place in a document to another place
a desktop PC: a computer that isnt portable and remains in situ on a desk
digital editing: to edit digital materials like audio or video files
download (podcasts): to save a copy of a file from the internet to your own device
to enter a web address: to type the address of a website into the address bar of your
browser
a gadget: a technological tool like a mobile phone or camera
to go online: to start using the Internet
high-spec (laptop): powerful computer with top quality components
Internet security: Internet safety
intranet: a network of connected computers within an organisation that is not accessible
by unauthorised visitors
to navigate a website: to find your way around a website
operating system: the software that tells the computer how to work
send an attachment: send an email with an accompanying file
social media: media used to interact with other people such as Facebook or Twitter
to surf the web: to look at a series of websites one after the other
a techie: somebody who has an interest in technology
to upgrade: to obtain a more powerful or feature-rich computer or piece of software
video conferencing: to see and hear people from different locations using the Internet
wireless hotspot: a public place where you can access the Internet
wireless network: a network where users can access the Internet without the use of fixed
cables
word processing; producing written texts on a computer

>> Lesson 4: Sport

15

We all have a relationship with sport: we might watch it, play it or try our best to avoid it.
Because its such an important subject you may find yourself being asked questions about sport
in the IELTS Speaking exam.
Read the following IELTS-style questions and answers below and pay attention to the phrases
in bold. Use the Definitions section at the bottom of the page to check the meaning of any
phrases you dont understand.
Part 1-style questions
Examiner: Do you do any sports?
Loiuse: Not really no I always say Im going to take up exercise and try to get into
shape but I never seem to get started I sometimes wonder whether I should get a personal
trainer someone who will sort out a fitness programme for me and make me train hard
.
Examiner: How do you spend a typical weekend?
Stella: Im a big football fan and weekends always centre around a football match I
support FC Utrecht and have a season ticket so I go to most of the home games and quite a
few of the away games too Im really looking forward to the new football season starting
soon
Examiner: Have you got any hobbies or interests?
Theo: Yes Im really keen on sports I do judo once a week and play tennis in the
summer I think its really important to keep fit it makes you feel good and energised for
work and your studies .
Part 2-style task
Describe a place you like going to in your leisure time. You should say:
what this place is
when you go there
what you do there and say why you enjoy it there so much.
Maurice: Id like to talk about my local sports centre its a place I spend a lot of time
in its a new building with all the latest sports facilities I probably go there at least
twice a week sometimes more often its a huge place theres an outdoor athletics
track and some football pitches I play football so Im often out there there are several
indoor squash and tennis courts that I use occasionally a big swimming pool although
I dont use that very often Im not a very strong swimmer theres a gym lots of
things really why do I enjoy going there its just a really fun place to be theres a
good social side to it all you can enter competitions meet up with other people who want
to do the same sports and because there are so many activities on offer it gets you interested
in different things for example I was listening to some people talking about training to run
the marathon and Ive decided I might even think about that I go jogging a couple of times
a week so it would give me something to aim for so yes the sports centre thats the
place I really like to visit

Examiner: Should people be encouraged more to take up sport?

Alejandro: I think young people should be given the chance to discover which sport they might
like watching sport is sometimes a good way to get people started not on TV but actually
getting out take athletics for example they could go to an athletics meeting there are
so many different sports on show one might interest them
Examiner: Why do some people enjoy participating in sport more than others?
Florrie: Thats a good question I suppose some people are more concerned about their
health they cant stand the thought of being out of condition other people might be
driven to excel they want to set records or get personal bests
Examiner: Which sports do you think are best for people who arent used to physical activity?
Julie: Well I think people like this should avoid strenuous exercise so things like circuit
training are definitely out of the question maybe just doing a brisk walk every day or
swimming is always a good way to get started
Definitions
an athletics meeting: an event where various athletics sports are held
an athletics track: a running track
an away game: a football match played in the opposing teams stadium
a brisk walk: a fast walk
to do judo: (not go or play)
a football fan: someone who likes football
a fitness programme: a schedule of activities to keep fit
a football match: a game of football
a football pitch: the surface on which you play football (as opposed to a stadium, which
is the building)
a football season: a period in the year when football is played
to get into shape: to become fit
to go jogging: to run around the streets
a home game: a football match played in the teams own stadium
to keep fit: to stay in good physically condition
to be out of condition: to not be physically fit
a personal best: to achieve the best personal result so far in a sport
a personal trainer: a sports coach that helps you on a one-to-one basis
to play tennis/football: (not do or go)
to run the marathon: to run a distance of 42.195 Kilometres
a season ticket: a ticket that gives you entry to most of a teams home games during the
sporting year.
to set a record: to achieve the best result in a sport
a sports centre: a public building where people can do various sports
sports facilities: the equipment and services needed to do a sport
a squash/tennis/badminton court: the surface where you play these sports
strenuous exercise: exercise that needs a lot of physical effort
a strong swimmer: a good swimmer
a swimming pool: the place where you swim
to take up exercise: to start doing exercise
to train hard: to train with a lot of effort

Part 3-style questions

16

17

>> Lesson 5: Food

The topic of food often comes up in the IELTS Speaking exam. You might be asked questions
about what you like to eat, your favourite restaurants or about a popular dish in your country.
Read the following IELTS-style questions and answers below and pay attention to the phrases
in bold. Use the Definitions section at the bottom of the page to check the meaning of any
phrases you dont understand.
Part 1-style questions
Examiner: Do you like to cook?
Mandy: Not really no most of the time I eat ready meals and take-aways thats one of
the reasons I love visiting my mum you can always guarantee lovely home-cooked food
Examiner: What time do you usually eat dinner?
Michelle: We have our main meal at around 7.00 Im usually starving hungry by then
in fact I often grab a bite to eat as soon as I get home from college a sandwich perhaps
but not too much to spoil my appetite
Examiner: Are there any types of food you dont like?
Lionel: No not really Im not a fussy eater at all actually I eat like a horse I do a lot
of sport and work up quite an appetite
Part 2-style task
Describe a restaurant that you like to use. You should say
where this restaurant is
what kind of food it serves
how often you go there and say why you like eating there so much.
Howard: OK this is a nice topic to talk about theres a restaurant just around the corner
from where I live its an Italian restaurant so as youd expect you can eat various pasta
dishes and pizzas and I usually go there with my family for a slap-up meal if we have
anything to celebrate its quite a posh restaurant the kind of place you would take
someone if you wanted to wine and dine them we usually order a 3-course meal a light
starter then a main dish and I have quite a sweet tooth so I always look forward to the
dessert I usually order Tiramisu it makes my mouth water just to think about it Im
always totally full up by the end why do I enjoy it there well its not cheap my
parents always foot the bill and we couldnt afford to go there regularly so its always a nice
treat

cooking is a very creative process and cooking for other people is a particular pleasure
theres nothing more satisfying than seeing people you love tucking into something youve
cooked yourself
Definitions
to be full up: to eat to the point that you can no longer eat any more
to be starving hungry: an exaggerated way of saying you are very hungry
to bolt something down: to eat something very quickly
to be dying of hunger: an exaggerated way of saying you are hungry
to eat a balanced diet: to eat the correct types and amounts of food
to eat like a horse: to eat a lot
to follow a recipe: to cook a meal using instructions
to foot the bill: to pay the bill
a fussy eater: somebody who has their own very high standards about what to eat
to grab a bite to eat: to eat something quickly (when youre in a rush)
to have a sweet tooth: to enjoy sugary food
home-cooked food: food cooked at home from individual ingredients
the main meal: the most important meal of the day, usually eaten in the evening
to make your mouth water: to make you feel very hungry for something
to play with your food: to push food around the plate to avoid eating it
processed food: commercially prepared food bought for convenience
a quick snack: to eat a small amount of food between meals
a ready meal: see processed food
a slap up meal: a large meal
to spoil your appetite: to est something that will stop you feeling hungry when its mealtime.
a take away: a cooked meal prepared in a restaurant and eaten at home
to tuck into: to eat something with pleasure
to wine and dine: to entertain someone by treating them to food and drink
to work up an appetite: to do physical work that leads to you becoming hungry

Part 3-style questions

Examiner: How can we encourage people to eat more healthily?
Anna: I think the best approach is to have everything in moderation processed food wont
kill you if you only eat it occasionally but people should also be encouraged to eat a
balanced diet try to cook fresh ingredients at home a few times a week
Examiner: Do you think people enjoy their food as much as they should?
Florrie: I dont know really I suppose its true that people will often eat a quick snack
because theyre bored not because theyre dying of hunger and often they just bolt it down
and dont savour it so yes perhaps we could take more time over our food
Examiner: Do you think cooking is a pleasure or a chore for people who have busy lives?
Julie: Well whether you follow a recipe of make something up as you go along I think
18

19

>> Lesson 6: Education

Youre likely to be asked questions about your studies during Part 1, you might have to talk
about a class, a teacher or a school memory in Part 2 or give your opinions on education in Part
3. Therefore, being able to call on a wide range of vocabulary to talk about education is very
important.
Read the following IELTS-style questions and answers below and pay attention to the phrases
in bold. Use the Definitions section at the bottom of the page to check the meaning of any
phrases you dont understand.
Part 1-style questions
Examiner: Are you studying English at a school?
Michel: Yes Im taking an intensive course at a local private language school I attend
classes three times a week
Examiner: Would you say you are a good student?
Susan: Im OK I think Im pretty good at meeting deadlines and Im keeping up with my
studies plus I find it quite easy to learn things by heart which is useful when learning a
language
Examiner: When you were younger did you enjoy your time at school?
Theo: Yes I liked school it was an ordinary state school nothing special a singlesex school which Im not sure I liked but the teachers were great I had lots of friends
and I never played truant like some pupils there
Part 2-style task
Describe a time during your education that you really enjoyed. You should say:
when this period was
where you were
what you were studying at the time and say why you were so happy.
Caroline: Id like to tell you about my time at university I was a mature student I
didnt go to university until I was 25 and it was my first time away from my parents so it
was very exciting I was doing a Bachelors Degree and it was a bit of a challenge some
people take a year out but Id been away from education for 8 years plus I had to work my
way through uni so I was very busy and sitting exams at the end of each year was a new
experience for me as well but I really enjoyed higher education learning about a subject I
loved history and the social life was great as well I dont think Ive ever had so many
friends I had my graduation ceremony last year in the local cathedral and I know my
parents were really proud so yes that was a really happy time Im thinking of doing a
Masters Degree soon though that might be through distance learning as I have a full-time
job now
Part 3-style questions
Examiner: What qualities do you think a good teacher has?
Anna: They should be patient they should be subject specialists and be able to explain the
subject clearly they should give feedback quickly for example not hang on to essay for
ages like some of my teachers
Examiner: What are the advantages of studying on a distance learning course?
Florrie: Its a more flexible way of studying especially if you have a job tuition fees are
usually cheaper but you have to be very motivated and I would imagine more people fall
behind with their studies compared to face-to-face classes
20

Examiner: Do all children get equal opportunities in education?

Julie: In my country I think it is quite equal but in the UK Ive heard that most people who go
to the top universities have studied at public schools you have to be very rich to study in a
school like that theyre usually boarding schools as well so the fees are enormous
Definitions
to attend classes: to go to classes
bachelors degree: an undergraduate course which usually lasts 3-4 years
boarding school: a school where pupils live during term time
distance learning: a way of studying where tuition is carried out over the Internet or by
post
face-to-face classes: as opposed to distance learning the traditional way of studying in a
classroom with colleagues and a teacher
to fall behind with your studies: to progress less quickly than others
to give feedback: to offer guidance on a students work
a graduation ceremony: an event where a successful student receives his or her
academic degree
higher education: education, usually in a college or university, that is followed after
high school or secondary school
an intensive course: a course that offers lots of training in order to reach a goal in as
short a time as possible
to keep up with your studies: to not fall behind
to learn something by heart: to memorize it
a mature student: a student who is older than average and who has usually returned to
education after a period at work
masters degree: a period of study which often follows the completion of a bachelors
degree or is undertaken by someone regarded as capable of a higher-level academic
course
to meet a deadline: to finish a job or task in the time allowed or agreed
to play truant: to stay away from classes without permission
private language school: an independent school run as a business concern
public schools: exclusive independent schools in the UK
a single-sex school: a school where only boys or girls attend (as opposed to a mixed-sex
school)
to sit an exam: to take an exam
state school: a school paid for by public funds and available to the general public
subject specialist: a teacher who has a great deal of knowledge about the subject they
teach.
to take a year out: to spend a year working or travelling before starting university
tuition fees: the money paid for a course of study
to work your way through university: to have a paid job whilst studying to support
yourself financially

21

>> Lesson 7: Work

If youre employed, getting the necessary qualifications for a job, or still trying to decide what
kind of career youre interested in, youll need to be able to tell the examiner about this if
youre asked questions about work.
Read the following IELTS-style questions and answers below and pay attention to the phrases
in bold. Use the Definitions section at the bottom of the page to check the meaning of any
phrases you dont understand.
Part 1-style questions
Examiner: What do you do?
Sasha: I do a job-share with a friend in a boutique I enjoy it I like working with
customers unfortunately its only temporary work but one of the perks of the job is I get
a discount on the clothes
Examiner: Do you have any career plans yet?
Carly: Yes Id like to be my own boss one day Im interested in programming and Id
like to create apps for myself or for other companies I know being self employed would be
a challenge but the idea of doing a nine-to-five job doesnt appeal to me at all
Examiner: What do you see yourself doing in 10 years time?
Marie: Id hope to be working not a high-powered job but Im quite a creative person
so something where I can work with my hands would be nice as long as Im not stuck
behind a desk doing something boring in a dead-end job Ill be happy
Part 2-style task
Describe your ideal job. You should say:
what this job is
whether you would need any qualifications
whether it would be easy to find work and say why you would enjoy this job in
particular.
Max: Ive always loved watching wildlife programmes on TV and often thought how much Id
enjoy working with animals perhaps in a safari park something like that youd
probably need a degree to have any chance of being called for an interview and whether there
are many full-time jobs I dont know Im sure a lot of parks rely on voluntary work so it
might not be easy and it probably wouldnt be well-paid either but money isnt everything
Id get so much job satisfaction I cant imagine it being the kind of job where you
get stuck in a rut and I think Id be good at it as well Id love to work with animals I
enjoy manual work and Im a good team player so even though the working conditions
might not be the best I think that would be my ideal job
Part 3-style questions
Examiner: If there are a limited number of jobs available who should be given priority, young
people or older people with more experience?
Anna: Things are so different these days a few years ago older employees would often take
early retirement or go onto part-time contracts and there were always opportunities for
younger people but now jobs are so scarce I think younger people need to be given the
chance whenever possible
22

Examiner: What are some of the important things a candidate should find out before accepting
a job?
Ali: Well youd need to know about your area of responsibility and your salary of
course and then there are things like holiday entitlement maternity or paternity leave
if youre thinking of having children and what the situation is regarding sick leave that
kind of thing
Examiner: What are the advantages of having your own business rather than working for
someone else?
Julie: Well unfortunately being an employee at the moment is very stressful people have
very heavy workloads theyre always under pressure to meet deadlines running your
own business isnt easy but I do think it would be far more satisfying
Definitions
to be called for an interview: to be invited to attend an interview
to be your own boss: to have your own business
a dead-end job: a job with no promotional opportunities
to do a job-share: to share the weekly hours of work with another person
a good team player: somebody who can work well with other people
full-time: the number of hours that people usually work in a complete week
a heavy workload: to have a lot of work to do
a high-powered job: an important or powerful job
holiday entitlement: the number of days holiday allowed
job satisfaction: the feeling of enjoying a job
manual work: work that requires physical activity
maternity leave: time off work given to a woman about to have a baby
to meet a deadline: to finish a job by an agreed time
a nine-to-five job: a normal job that consists of an 8 hour day (approximately)
one of the perks of the job: an extra benefit you get from a job
part-time: working less than full-time
to run your own business: see to be your own boss
to be self-employed: see to be your own boss
sick leave: time allowed off work when sick
to be stuck behind a desk: to be unhappy in an office job
to be/get stuck in a rut: to be in a boring job that is hard to leave
to take early retirement: to retire early (retire: to reach an age when you are allowed to
stop working for a living)
temporary work: work done for a limited time only
voluntary work: to work without pay
to be well paid: to earn a good salary
working conditions: the hours, salary and other entitlements that comes with the job
to work with your hands: to do manual work

23

concerned about something men tend to avoid facing up to any health problems they have
my dad always seems to have a very chesty cough but refuses to go to make an
appointment to see the doctor

>> Lesson 8: Health

During the IELTS Speaking exam you may be asked questions to do with health and fitness.
Read the following IELTS-style questions and answers below and pay attention to the phrases
in bold. Use the Definitions section at the bottom of the page to check the meaning of any
phrases you dont understand.
Part 1-style questions
Examiner: Have you got a relation youre particularly fond of?
Sinita: Yes my granddad hes 94 years old but generally hes as fit as a fiddle were
very close and see each other a lot whenever he goes down with a cold or is under the
weather I make a point of visiting him
Examiner: Do you do any sport?
Jon: Yes Im keen on skateboarding but I havent done it for a while I had a bad fall
recently and pulled a muscle and had a few cuts and bruises but Im on the mend and
hope to be doing it again soon
Examiner: Is there anything youre particularly afraid of?
Davide: The dentist I hate going to the dentist I only ever go if I have a toothache so it
usually means I have to have a filling or even have a tooth out I really dont like it
Part 2-style task
Describe a time when you were ill. You should say:
when this was
what your symptoms were
how long the illness lasted and say how it affected your life at the time.
Pierre: This is a tricky one really as Im usually quite healthy Ive never been seriously ill
like everyone else I sometimes get a few aches and pains or catch a cold I can
remember a few months ago I had to have time off work with a heavy cold I had the usual
symptoms a blocked nose sore throat it lasted quite a while about 2 weeks I think
though I didnt have that much time off work for a few days I remember feeling poorly but
I was over the worst of it after a few days and went back to work I always find its better to
be active when you feel ill as it keeps your mind of your symptoms I think my family get a
little fed up with me when Im ill though I tend to feel sorry for myself and lie on the sofa
all day as if Im at deaths door but as I said earlier on this occasion it was nothing
serious and didnt really cause me any problems

Definitions
aches and pains: minor pains that continue over a period of time
to be a bit off colour: to feel a little ill
to be at deaths door: (informal) to be very ill indeed
to be on the mend: to be recovering after an illness
to be over the worst: to have got through the most serious or uncomfortable stage of an
illlness
to be under the weather: (informal) to not feel well
a blocked nose: when the nose has excess fluid due to a cold
to catch a cold: to get a cold
a check-up: a physical examination by a doctor
a chesty cough: a cough caused by congestion around the lungs
cuts and bruises: minor injuries
to feel poorly: to feel ill
as fit as a fiddle: to be very healthy
to go down with a cold: to become ill
to go private: to choose to be treated by commercial healthcare rather than by services
offered by the state
GP: General Practitioner (family doctor)
to have a filling: to have a tooth repaired
to have a tooth out: to have a tooth removed
a heavy cold: a bad cold
to make an appointment: to arrange a time to see the doctor
to make a speedy recovery: to recover quickly from an illness
to phone in sick: to call work to explain you wont be attending work due to illness
prescription charges: money the patient pays for medicine authorised by a doctor
to pull a muscle: to strain a muscle
a runny nose: a nose that has liquid coming out of it
a sore throat: inflammation that causes pain when swallowing

Part 3-style questions

Examiner: What costs are involved when you are ill in your country?
Anya: Well people have to pay prescription charges which can be quite expensive but
fortunately general healthcare is free unless you want to go private of course and then you
can pay a fortune for your treatment
Examiner: In your experience are people too quick to take time off work when theyre ill?
Alicia: Yes .. Ive got friends who have a day off work if they wake up with a runny nose
and in most cases they seem to make a speedy recovery after theyve phoned in sick
Examiner: Do women pay more attention to their health than men?
Julie: I think so yes women are more likely to see their GP for a check-up if theyre
24

25

>> Lesson 9: Books and Films

Its quite possible that the examiner will ask you questions about your reading habits or ask
you to say something about a book youve read or a film youve seen. Read the following
IELTS-style questions and answers below and pay attention to the phrases in bold. Use the
Definitions section at the bottom of the page to check the meaning of any phrases you dont
understand.
Part 1-style questions
Examiner: Do you like to read books?
Marie: Yes I love reading I like nothing more than to be engrossed in a good book I
regularly take out books from the library and usually read them from cover to cover in no
time and I cant go to sleep at night without some good bedtime reading
Examiner: How often do you go to the cinema?
Jemma: Unfortunately we dont have a cinema near us so we have to go into the nearest town
to catch the latest movie I usually avoid seeing popular box-office hits which Im not
always keen on seeing I prefer low-budget films sci-fi especially and theres a great
cinema I go to that has frequent showings of films like these
Examiner: Do you prefer reading books or watching films?
Louisa: Im not really a big reader I find books quite heavy-going so I much prefer to
see a film perhaps its the special effects or the soundtrack I dont know I just prefer
a film
Part 2-style task
Describe a book you have read or a film you have seen. You should say:
what this book or film was
when you read or saw it
why you decided to see the film or read the book and say if you enjoyed it and why.
Pauline I like reading especially English novels its a great way to improve your
vocabulary and there are so many fantastic authors to choose from one book that came
highly recommended by my teacher was The Mayor of Casterbridge I was studying at a
school in The UK at the time and she said it would give me a picture of what life was like years
ago in the area I was living well I have to say I absolutely loved it it was a real pageturner its a historical novel and the setting was a fictional town called Casterbridge
but actually it was based on a town near where I was studying called Dorchester it had such
a great plot to cut a long story short it tells the story of the downfall of a man called
Henchard the central character who lives during a period of great social change around the
time of the industrial revolution the reason I enjoyed it so much apart from the great
story it gave me a picture of what life had been like in the place I was studying at the time
I really couldnt put it down a fantastic story
Part 3-style questions
Examiner: Is reading as pleasurable in digital format?
Alise: Personally I prefer reading a paperback or hardback especially if Im reading a
classic which I dont think feels right as an e-book but I can see it can be good for others
my grandmother has an e-reader and she loves the way you can enlarge the text
26

Examiner: Do you think bookshops will survive the digital revolution?

Thomas: I think so at least I hope so I love flicking through books in a bookshop
online shopping is useful finding out on Amazon if a book you want has got a good review
maybe getting one that is difficult to find but I still love the experience of being in a
bookshop
Examiner: Statistics show that visits to the cinema are up despite the availability of DVDs and
online downloads. Why do you think this might be?
Jamie: I think its the whole experience that the cinema offers going out to see a film when
it goes on general release and seeing it on the big screen is more exciting than watching
the film at home on TV especially if its an action movie and watching it with others
makes it even more special
Definitions
an action movie: a film with fast moving scenes, often containing violence
to be engrossed in: to be completely focused on one thing
bedtime reading: something to read in bed before you go to sleep
to be a big reader: someone who reads a lot
to be based on: to use as a modal
a box office hit: a financially successful film
to be heavy-going: difficult to read
a blockbuster: a film that is a big commercial success
to catch the latest movie: to see a film that has just come out
the central character: the main person in a film or book
a classic: of the highest quality
to come highly recommended: to be praised by another person
couldnt put it down: wasnt able to stop reading a book
an e-book: a digital book
an e-reader: a device for reading e-books
to flick through: to look quickly through a book
to get a good/bad review: to receive positive or negative feedback
to go on general release: when a film can be seen by the general public
hardback: a book with a rigid cover (see paperback below)
a historical novel: a story set in the past
a low budget film: a film made with a small amount of money
on the big screen: at the cinema
a page turner: a book that you want to keep reading
paperback: a book with a flexible cover (see hardback above)
plot: the main events in a film or book
to read something from cover to cover: to read a book from the first page to the last
sci-fi: science fiction
to see a film: to see a film at the cinema (see watch a film below)
the setting: where the action takes place
showings: performances of a film
soundtrack: the music that accompanies a film
special effects: the visuals or sounds that are added to a film which are difficult to
produce naturally
to take out (a book from the library): to borrow a book from the library
to tell the story of: to outline the details of someones life or an event
to watch a film: to watch a film on TV (see to see a film above)
27

>> Lesson 10: Accommodation

The examiner may ask you to talk about the place you live or would like to live in the exam.
Read the following IELTS-style questions and answers below and pay attention to the phrases
in bold. Use the Definitions section at the bottom of the page to check the meaning of any
phrases you dont understand.
Part 1-style questions
Examiner: Do you live in a house or an apartment?
Callum: Actually I live on campus in a single room in halls of residence all first year
students are encouraged to do that as theyre close to the university next year I plan to move
into student digs in town
Examiner: Tell me about where you live.
Julia: I live with my parents in the suburbs of Madrid we only moved in recently in fact
we had a house-warming party just a few weeks ago
Examiner: What kind of accommodation do most people live in in your city?
Maria: In the city itself the majority of people live in apartment blocks thats what
surprised me about England most people seem to live in terraced houses with lovely back
gardens
Part 2-style task
Describe a house or an apartment you would like to live in. You should say
what kind of accommodation it would be
where it would be
who would live there with you and say why you would enjoy living in this place.
Paolo: I think most people when answering this question would say theyd like to live in a big
detached house with spacious rooms views of the countryside and so on but actually
my ideal home would be a lot different Ive always loved the idea of having a mobile home
a really expensive one with all the mod cons so I could live wherever I wanted or at
least have lots of holidays and be able to take all my home comforts with me whenever I
travelled I realise this would have to be a second home as Id need a base a permanent
address but the mobile home would be the accommodation Id find it exciting to live in I
suppose once I settle down and have children Ill want to get on the property ladder Ill be
like everyone else saving up to put down a deposit on a house or an apartment I dont
think my family would want to live in a mobile home but I like to think Ill still keep that
dream home in mind
Part 3-style questions
Examiner: Is it better to own your own home or to rent?
Ana: I think both have their advantages living in rented accommodation isnt necessarily a
bad thing you dont have a huge debt like you do when you take out a mortgage but I
suppose the property market offers you an investment for the future Im sure thats why
most people prefer to own their own home
Examiner: What options are available to young couples looking for accommodation in your
country?
28

Toni: If they want to buy their own home it isnt easy for first-time buyers mortgages are
hard to get so most people live with their parents or in rented accommodation but that can
also be very expensive you often have to pay rent in advance and if the accommodation
isnt fully furnished you have the expense of buying furniture
Examiner: What are some of the pleasures involved in making a home for ourselves?
Suki: I suppose it starts with house-hunting finding your ideal home some people enjoy
doing up an old property giving a property thats old and tired a new lease of life
others like making wherever they live feel like home with some home comforts
Definitions
(all the) mod cons: technology at home that makes jobs easier such as a washing
machine, dishwasher etc.
apartment block: a large building made up of smaller units of apartments
back garden: a garden at the rear of the house
detached house: a house that is not physically connected to another property
to do up a property: to repair an old building
dream home: a home you regard as perfect
first-time buyer: someone buying a property for the first time, especially when taking
out a loan (mortgage)
fully-furnished: a rented property with all furniture included
to get on the property ladder: to buy a property with the aim of buying another bigger or
more expensive one later in life
hall of residence: a college or university building where students live
home comforts: things that make a home feel comfortable to live in
house-hunting: looking for a property to live in
house-warming party: a party to celebrate moving into a new home
ideal home: a perfect home
to live on campus: to live on the university or college grounds
mobile home: a home that can be moved by a vehicle or one that has its own engine
to move into: to begin to live in a property
to own your own home: to have bought the property you live in
to pay rent in advance: weekly or monthly rent paid at the beginning of the week or
month
permanent address: a fixed address
property market: the buying and selling of land or buildings
to put down a deposit: to pay an amount of money as the first in a series of future
payments
rented accommodation: property owned by someone else and for which a person pays a
fixed amount to live in
single room: a room for one person
spacious room: a large room
student digs: student accommodation
the suburbs: a residential area on the edge of towns or cities
to take out a mortgage: to borrow a large amount of money, paid back over several
years, in order to buy a house
terraced house: a house connected on both sides by other properties

29

>> Lesson 11: Clothes and Fashion

The examiner may ask you to talk about the clothes you like to wear or your attitude towards
fashion. Read the following IELTS-style questions and answers below and pay attention to the
phrases in bold. Use the Definitions section at the bottom of the page to check the meaning of
any phrases you dont understand.
Part 1-style questions
Examiner: Do you enjoy buying clothes?
Pedro: I used to yes like most young people I was a bit of a slave to fashion and Id
always have to buy that must-have shirt or pair of shoes Im not so bothered now though
I wouldnt feel comfortable wearing something old fashioned but Im not as bothered as I used
to be about what I wear
Examiner: What kind of clothes do you like to wear?
Marco: I prefer casual clothes actually I hate getting dressed up for special occasions
personally I think its possible to look good in a pair of jeans but thats my opinion I
dont think my wife would call me a fashion icon thats for sure
Examiner: Are there many clothes shops where you live?
Sylvia: Yes there are lots in my town apart from the big chain stores weve got a couple
of really nice shops that sell vintage clothes old clothes but in a classic style that never
really go out of fashion I love going there
Part 2-style task
Describe someone you know who dresses well. You should say
who they are
how you know them
what kind of clothes they wear and say why you like the way they dress.
Tomoko: Id like to talk about one of my teachers Miss Evans she teaches us English in
the school I go to we always look forward to seeing what shes going to wear when our
lessons start shes always very well dressed and takes a lot of pride in her appearance
its not that she dresses in very smart clothes she doesnt come to school dressed to kill or
anything like that but what she wears really suits her and she has a great sense of style
as well we often ask her where she gets some of her clothes and most of the time theyre
just off the peg and she says shes not interested in designer labels or anything like that
she doesnt seem too concerned about keeping up with the latest fashion she just wears
clothes that are timeless yes Miss Evans is the person I think looks great in the clothes
she wears
Part 3-style questions
Examiner: What factors do you think affect the clothes we choose to wear?
Maki: It depends where we are or where were going is a big factor if you are going out
to a club or party youre going to dress for the occasion and then there are those who think
its important to look like theyre on trend theyll want to wear the latest fashions there
are lots of factors really
Examiner: What kind of things determine what is in fashion and what we should be wearing?
Martin: I suppose the big fashion houses and fashion shows must have an effect but the
clothes you see on the catwalk dont always reflect what normal people wear so I suppose
30

it will be things like what singers are wearing in videos or models are wearing in magazines
that kind of thing
Examiner: Is it possible to look good without spending lots of money on clothes?
Corinna: Im sure it is yes I suppose its about having an eye for what looks good
knowing how to mix and match different items of clothing that go well together I think
you can pick up great bargains in charity shops sometimes for youngsters even hand-medowns can look good
Definitions
to be on trend: to be very fashionable
casual clothes: not formal
classic style: a simple, traditional style that is always fashionable
designer label: a well-known company that makes (often expensive) clothing
dressed to kill: wearing clothes that attract admirers
to dress for the occasion: to wear clothes suitable for a particular event
fashionable: in fashion
fashion house: a company that sells (usually expensive) new styles in clothes
fashion icon: a person who is famous for their sense of fashion
fashion show: an event where modals show off the latest in fashion designs
to get dressed up: to put on nice clothes, often to go out somewhere special
to go out of fashion: to not be in fashion any more
hand-me-downs: clothes that are passed down from older brothers or sisters to their
younger siblings
to have an eye for (fashion): to be a good judge of
to have a sense of style: the ability to wear clothes that look stylish
the height of fashion: very fashionable
to keep up with the latest fashion: to wear the latest fashions
to look good in: to wear something that suits you
to mix and match: to wear different styles or items of clothing that arent part of a set
outfit
must-have: something that is highly fashionable and therefore in demand
off the peg: clothing that is ready made
old fashioned: not in fashion any more
on the catwalk: the stage that modals walk along to show off the latest fashions
a slave to fashion: someone who always feel the need to wear the latest fashions
smart clothes: the kind of clothes worn for a formal event
to suit someone: to look good on someone
to take pride in ones appearance: to pay attention to how one looks
timeless: something that doesnt go out of fashion
vintage clothes: clothes from an earlier period
well-dressed: to be dressed attractively

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>> Lesson 12: Personality

During the IELTS Speaking exam you may be asked to talk about someones personality or
character. Read the following IELTS-style questions and answers below and pay attention to
the phrases in bold. Use the Definitions section at the bottom of the page to check the
meaning of any phrases you dont understand.
Part 1-style questions
Examiner: How would you describe yourself?
Paula: Everyone tells me I take after my mum as Im quite laid-back I think Im good
company but you should ask my friends if they agree
Examiner: In which ways are you similar to your friends?
Manuel: I seem to be attracted to introverts not people who are painfully shy but most of
my friends are a little reserved and I think thats what Im like
Examiner: Are you similar or different to your brother(s)/sister(s)?
Mira: I think my brother and I are very similar Id say were fun-loving and tend to be a bit
extroverted my brother is certainly the life and soul of the party Im not sure that
applies to me
Part 2-style task
Describe a teacher you once had who you enjoyed being taught by. You should say
who this person was
when they were your teacher
which subject they taught you and describe what it was about their character that you
liked.
Carolina: Id like to describe my English teacher from school Miss Thomas this was a
few years ago now and she was my teacher at a time when I was getting a little bored with
being at school unlike some of the other teachers Miss Thomas never lost her temper
she was very calm and easy-going she was also very broad-minded we were able to ask
her questions about lots of subjects that some other teachers would refuse to discuss which
made us respect her even more she had a great sense of humour too shed laugh at our
jokes as well as making us laugh and she would also bend over backwards to help us with
our work she always put us first and often stayed around at the end of class to talk with
anyone who needed help apparently she was highly respected within her field but you
would never know as she was the type that hid her light under a bushel she was very
modest and self-effacing so yes Miss Thomas was a teacher I have fond memories of

views and people who are two-faced can be a little irritating relationships are built on
trust and without honesty theres not much left
Examiner: Which personality types do you think are less likely to suffer from stress or anxiety?
Sol: Probably people who are thick-skinned who dont let people or problems affect them
too much and if you are fair-minded you ll be less likely to overreact to situations or be
quick-tempered
Definitions
to be the life and soul of the party: a fun person, someone who is the centre of activity
to bend over backwards: to try very hard to help someone
broad-minded: prepared to accept other views or behaviours
easy-going: relaxed and not easily worried about anything
extrovert: an energetic person who likes the company of others
fair-minded: to treat people equally
fun-loving: to enjoy having fun
to hide ones light under a bushel: to hide ones talents and skills
good company: enjoyable to socialise with
good sense of humour: the ability to understand what is funny
introvert: someone who is shy
laid-back: see easy-going
to lose ones temper: to suddenly become angry
narrow minded: opposite of broad-minded (see above)
painfully shy: very shy
to put others first: to think of others before yourself
quick-tempered: to become angry quickly
reserved: shy
self-assured: confident
self-centred: thinks only of oneself
self-confident: believes in ones own ability or knowledge
self-effacing: to not try to get the attention of others (especially in terms of hiding ones
skills or abilities)
to take after: to be like (often another member of the family)
thick-skinned: not easily affected by criticism
trustworthy: can be trusted
two-faced: not honest or sincere. Will say one thing to someone to their face and another
when they are not present.

Part 3-style questions

Examiner: Which personal qualities do you think we most want to pass on to our children?
Martin: I certainly would want my children to be self-confident and self-assured I really
believe that people who feel good about themselves are in a good position to face what life has
to offer them and Id hope they wouldnt be self-centred but remembered to think about
others
Examiner: Which characteristics do you think are the least appealing in a person?
Marianne: Well people who are very narrow-minded are difficult to get on with its
nice when someone is open to other peoples opinion and willing to think about their own
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33

>> Lesson 13: Business

During the IELTS Speaking exam you may be asked to talk about the subject of business. This
might involve describing a business you know well or talking about your own ambitions. Read
the following IELTS-style questions and answers below and pay attention to the phrases in
bold. Use the Definitions section at the bottom of the page to check the meaning of any
phrases you dont understand.
Part 1-style questions
Examiner: Do you work or are you a student?
Hati: I run my own business actually I have an online business selling cosmetics I set
up the business 5 years ago and Im really enjoying working for myself
Examiner: What is your ideal job?
Kaori: I dont think Id enjoy working for a big company I think Id like to go it alone and
be self-employed Im not sure what area of business it would be but I think Id enjoy the
process of drawing up a business plan and seeing if I could be successful
Examiner: Is your town a nice place to live?
Monique: Its OK the main problem we have is our local high street it used to be a busy
centre but lots of shops have gone bust it must be very difficult to make a profit when you
have huge supermarkets in the area and a lot havent been able to survive with such cut-throat
competition
Part 2-style task
Describe a business you know that you admire. You should say
what this business is
what the business sells
how long you have known about the business and say why you like it so much.
Magda: Actually I discovered a business very recently that I like so much Id like to do
something similar in the future its a small niche business that runs courses in how to cook
especially bread the owner uses his kitchen for the courses and went into business with
a local community shop and sells a lot of the bread and cakes they make in the shop I first
got to hear about the business last year my wife paid for me to do one of the baking courses
and I got to know the owner during the training its a lifestyle business really he doesnt
have plans to take on employees or expand into new areas hes happy earning a living
doing the thing he loves I really admire what he does and Im sure a lot of people would
love to do something similar he has a web presence in fact thats how we got to find out
about his company and he uses social media to raise the company profile but hes the
only person involved in running the business so hes in complete control of where the
business goes thats something that must make it really satisfying as long as hes
managing to balance the books and the cash flow is healthy Im sure he must be very pleased
with what he has achieved
Part 3-style questions
Examiner: Why do some people decide to set up their own business?
Marion: I suppose its the idea of being in control of your own destiny or of believing in a
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product or service idea you may have plus it must be very exciting launching products
winning contracts and seeing your sales figures improving must be wonderful
Examiner: What are some of the dangers involved in starting a business?
Hiro: Well obviously you need to have a good idea some people say you need to
do market research beforehand so you know what the market wants if you dont do this
you could go under and if it is a good idea the chances are someone else is doing the same
thing so you could end up facing stiff competition
Examiner: What are some of things you have to do when running your own business that might
not appeal to everyone?
Katy: Personally i dont like being in debt so taking out a business loan wouldnt suit me at
all and I know a lot of companies do cold calling to try and drum up business thats
something Id hate to do and laying people off if the business gets into trouble that
would be horrible
Definitions
to balance the books: to not spend more money than you are earning
to be self-employed: to work for yourself/to not work for an employer
to cold call: to make a sales call to someone without asking them for permission first
cut throat competition: when one company lowers its prices, forcing other companies to
do the same, sometimes to a point where business becomes unprofitable
to do market research: to do research into what potential customers would or wouldnt
buy
to draw up a business plan: to write a plan for a new business
to drum up business: to try to get customers
to earn a living: to earn money
to go bust: when a business is forced to close because it is unsuccessful
cash flow: the money coming in and going out of a business
to go into business with: to join another person to start or expand a business
to go it alone: to start your own business
to go under: (see to go bust)
to have a web presence: to have a website or social media profile that showcases your
business
to launch a product: to start selling and promoting a new product
to lay someone off: when a company ends an employees contract of employment
lifestyle business: a business that is set up to bring in a sufficient income and no more
to make a profit: to earn more money than it costs to run the business
niche business: a business that serves a small, particular market
to raise a company profile: to make more people aware of a business
to run your own business: to have a business of your own
sales figures: a report of the income a company generates through sales of products or
services
to set up a business: to start a business
stiff competition: strong competition from other companies in the same area of work
to take on employees: to employ people
to take out a loan: to borrow money
to win a contract: when a business gets legally-binding work with an individual or
company
to work for yourself: (see to be self-employed)
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>> Lesson 14: Physical Appearance

During the IELTS Speaking exam you may want to talk about what people look like. This
might involve describing their physical appearance or the type of clothes they like to wear.
Read the following IELTS-style questions and answers below and pay attention to the phrases
in bold. Use the Definitions section at the bottom of the page to check the meaning of any
phrases you dont understand.
Part 1-style questions
Examiner: Do you look like any other people in your family?
Carlo: No not at all take my brother for example he has short cropped hair and has
quite a pointed face hes also quite fair-skinned compared to me
Examiner: Tell me about your family.
Andrea: My fathers getting on a bit hes in his 60s but he looks very young for his
age he still does lots of exercise and is quite well-built
Examiner: What does your best friend look like?
Mandy: Shes the same age as me she has shoulder-length hair fair hair she has a
slim figure and is medium height
Part 2-style task
Describe a person whose appearance you like. You should say
who this person is
what their relationship is to you
what they look like and say what it is about their appearance you like.
Monique: OK Id like to talk about my aunt her names Marta and shes quite a
character shes middle-aged but has a very youthful appearance shes a little
overweight I suppose but not too much she has a friendly round face framed by thick
blonde hair she has a lovely complexion and shes always well-turned out she actually
always looks like shes going out for the evening to somewhere special theres never a hair
out of place Ive always thought she bears a striking resemblance to someone on TV I
cant remember the name now she wears glasses and always seems to have a different pair
on every time I see her I like the way she looks because she wears clothes that are right for
her age and manages to look glamorous without it looking like shes too done up yes Ill
be happy if I look like her when Im her age

Examiner: Is attractiveness a quality worthwhile aiming for?

Phoebe: Id like to say no it shouldnt matter what we look like in terms of our physical
appearance but unfortunately it seems women especially are taken more seriously if they are
good looking with a slender figure with perfect make up and so on
Definitions
to bear a striking resemblance: to look very similar to
cropped hair: very short hair
disheveled hair: untidy hair
to dress up to the nines: to dress very smartly or glamorously
fair hair: light-coloured hair
to be fair-skinned: light skinned
to get done up: to dress smartly
to be getting on a bit: to be getting old
to go grey: to have hair that is turning grey
to be good looking: to be attractive
to grow old gracefully: to act in a way that embraces the fact you are getting older
to be hard of hearing: to find it difficult to hear
in his/her 30s/40s: to be 20/30 something
scruffy: dressed untidily
to look young for your age: to look younger than you are
to lose ones figure: to have a figure that has lost its toned shape
complexion: natural skin colour and texture
make up: cosmetics
medium height: average height
middle-aged: approximately between 45-65
to never have a hair out of place: perfectly styled hair
to be overweight: to weigh more than is regarded as healthy
pointed face: the opposite of a round face
shoulder-length hair: hair that comes down to the shoulders and no further
slender figure: a figue that is tall and slim
slim figure: attractively thin
thick hair: a lot of hair
to wear glasses: to use spectacles
to be well-built: to be muscular
to be well-turned out: to look smart
youthful appearance: to look young

Part 3-style questions

Examiner: Is it important to dress well whenever we go out?
Mark: It depends where youre going I know some people get done up just to go to the
shops but I dont see the point you shouldnt go out looking scruffy with disheveled
hair but I really dont see the point in getting dressed up to the nines unless youre going
somewhere special
Examiner: Do people worry too much about their appearance as they get older?
Mira: Im sure they do yes but it happens to all of us doesnt it we all go grey
eventually and get hard of hearing we start to lose our figure thats why plastic surgery
is so popular personally I think we just need to grow old gracefully and not worry too
much about how we look
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>> Lesson 15: Town and City

In the IELTS Speaking exam you may be called upon to showcase your vocabulary to describe
towns and cities. Read the following IELTS-style questions and answers below and pay
attention to the phrases in bold. Use the Definitions section at the bottom of the page to check
the meaning of any phrases you dont understand.
Part 1-style questions
Examiner: What is it like where you live?
Christiane: I live in a residential area of a busy town in the south of Spain we have all the
facilities you need good public transport a good shopping centre its nice
Examiner: Do you like living in the city?
Andrea: Yes I do I like going out with my friends and there are lots of lively bars and
restaurants within walking distance of my apartment Im a bit of a culture vulture as well
so its great to have access to art exhibitions and that kind of thing
Examiner: Do you get many tourists visiting your area?
Mandy: Not really no I live in the inner-city and the area is a little run down its
basically a lot of high-rise flats and many of the shops are boarded up so nothing to
interest tourists really
Part 2-style task
Describe an interesting town or city in your country that visitors might enjoy. You should say
what the place is called
where the place is
what the facilities are like and say why visitors might enjoy going there.
Monique: Anyone who comes to my country really should spend some time in Barcelona
its a beautiful place its not what you would call a sprawling city its quite compact
really and you could walk across the city in a couple of hours but theres no need to do that
as we have a fantastic public transport system so its easy to get around there are various
districts all with their own character you have the upmarket shops in the centre youll
find lots of chain stores youll recognise from your own country but also local brands as well
we have the narrow streets in the Gothic district with lots of fashionable boutiques and
tourist attractions theres the Olympic area and the beaches along the coast and dotted
around the city are some lovely public spaces parks and squares in the city centre and on
the outskirts of Barcelona where people relax with their friends and family and of course
pavement cafes everywhere all that and some great historical places of interest so a
great destination for tourists

full of ugly office blocks multi-story car parks and residents living in poor housing
it depends on the city doesnt it?
Examiner: What are some of the challenges facing towns and cities?
Penny: I suppose traffic congestion is a major problem and the growth in out-of-town
supermarkets and retail parks mean lots of town centre shops are closing down plus a
shortage of good quality housing I think these are the major challenges
Definitions
boarded up shops: shops that are no longer doing business
chain stores: well-known brands with shops in multiple cities
to close down: to stop doing business
fashionable boutiques: fashionable clothes shops
to get around: to travel around
high-rise flats: multi-story apartments
inner-city: the central part of a city where people live and where condidions are often
poor
in the suburbs: the outer area of large towns and cities where people live
lively bars/restaurants: bars or restaurants with a good atmosphere
local facilities: local buildings or services serving the public
multi-story car parks: car parks on several floors
office block: a large building that contains offices
out of town shopping centre/retail park: large shopping centres outside of the town or
city
pavement cafe: cafes with tables outside on the pavement
places of interest: buildings that have a particular interest for visitors
poor housing: housing that is not in good condition
public spaces: areas in a town or city that are open to the public
public transport system: public vehicles such as buses and trains that operate at regular
times on fixed routes
residential area: an area where people live
run down: old and of a poor standard
shopping centre: an area consisting of multiple shops
shopping malls: large indoor shopping centres
sprawling city: a city that has grown over time and which covers a wide area
tourist attraction: a place of interest to tourists
traffic congestion: heavy traffic making it difficult to move around a town or city
upmarket shops: expensive fashionable shops

Part 3-style questions

Examiner: What are the advantages of living in a city or big town?
Carrie: I think its having access to local facilities really local shops as well as access to
larger shopping malls in the city centre and if youre well-off you can afford to live in the
suburbs away from the busy traffic
Examiner: In your experience are city centres usually attractive places?
Mary: Some can be yes especially those with a historical interest but sometimes theyre
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39

>> Lesson 16: Music

In the IELTS Speaking exam you may be asked questions about the music you listen to or
instruments you play. Read the following IELTS-style questions and answers below and pay
attention to the phrases in bold. Use the Definitions section at the bottom of the page to check
the meaning of any phrases you dont understand.
Part 1-style questions
Examiner: What kind of music do you listen to?
Katherine: Im a big fan of classical music it doesnt make me very popular with my
children their taste in music is completely different they always want to listen to their
favourite rock bands
Examiner: Do you play any instruments?
Jamie: No I dont Ive always wished Id taken up a musical instrument Id love to be
able to play the guitar but I think Im a bit tone deaf so perhaps Id find it hard
Examiner: Have you got any hobbies or interests?
Marco: Im really into live music I go to a lot of music festivals I think a live
performance always sounds more exciting than a recorded version as long as the
performers can sing and play well of course
Part 2-style task
Describe a song you like to listen to. You should say
what the piece of music is called
how long you have liked it
when you like to listen to it and say why you like it so much.
Millie: Well Im a little older than most students and when I was young Abba the Swedish
pop group were very famous I dont think it was cool to like them even though they had a
huge following but I think now people have realised what wonderful songs they wrote one
piece of music in particular is called Slipping through my fingers it wasnt a massive hit
but I love it its a song for parents and its all about how quickly our children grow up
its a slow number and like a lot of their songs its a very catchy tune the two women in
Abba had great voices and its the kind of music you can also sing along to easily even if
you dont have a great voice I listen to Abba when I feel like a sing-song and I especially
like to listen when Im doing the housework it stops me thinking about the hard work

Examiner: Where do people usually enjoy listening to music?

Sally: In lots of ways or places as background music when they are doing something else
at concerts when a band goes on tour or in clubs or discos
Definitions
adoring fans: people who love a particular band or singer
background music: music that is played while something else is happening
a catchy tune: a song that is easy to remember and makes you want to sing it
classical music: music that is regarded as part of a long, formal tradition
to download tracks: to obtain music from the Internet
to have a great voice: to sing well
to go on tour: to go on a planned series of performances around a region or country
a huge following: a large number of fans
live music: music that is listened to while it is performed (not recorded)
live performance: (see live music)
a massive hit: a record that sells lots of copies
a music festival: music performances at a venue often over several days
musical talent: skilled at music
to be/sing out of tune: to not be in harmony/to sing the wrong notes
a piece of music: an item of music
to play by ear: to play without reading the musical notes
a pop group: a small group of people who play or sing pop music together
to read music: to understand and follow written musical notes
a rock band: a group of musicians that play rock music
to sing along to: to join in singing
a sing-song: to sing informally, often with other people
a slow number: a song with a slow tempo
to take up a musical instrument: to begin learning a musical instrument
taste in music: the music someone likes
to be tone deaf: to be unable to distinguish the different notes in music

Part 3-style questions

Examiner: Is the Internet a good or bad thing for the music industry?
Thomas: On the one hand its good for marketing new musical talent or particular bands but
its so easy to share and download tracks for free I think it is costing the industry a lot of
money
Examiner: Should music be treated as seriously as subjects like maths or sciences at school?
Carla: I think it should I dont think it should be taught in a boring way I mean making
children read music but I do think they should be encouraged to play instruments and to
play things by ear perhaps to keep the lessons fun

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