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Reading Sample

The document outlines various components of the IELTS exam, including reading, writing, listening, and speaking samples, along with preparation tips and resources. It specifically details the Speaking Part 3 format, which involves a two-way discussion based on a cue card topic, and provides example questions and answers related to family, school rules, and work-life balance. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of supporting answers with examples and offers insights into societal trends regarding family structures and work expectations.
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0% found this document useful (0 votes)
12 views105 pages

Reading Sample

The document outlines various components of the IELTS exam, including reading, writing, listening, and speaking samples, along with preparation tips and resources. It specifically details the Speaking Part 3 format, which involves a two-way discussion based on a cue card topic, and provides example questions and answers related to family, school rules, and work-life balance. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of supporting answers with examples and offers insights into societal trends regarding family structures and work expectations.
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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 Reading Sample

o Academic Reading

o GT Reading

 Writing Sample

o Academic Writing Task 1

o GT Writing Task 1

o Writing Task 2

 Listening Sample

 Speaking Sample

o Speaking part 1

o Speaking part 3

 Cue Card Sample

 Speaking

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 Reading Preparation

o Academic Reading

o GT Reading

 Writing Preparation

o Academic Writing

 Writing Task 1

 Writing Task 2

o GT Writing

 Listening Preparation

 Speaking Preparation

o Find a Speaking Partner

 IELTS Mock Test

 Essay Vocabulary

 Topics Related Vocabulary

Speaking part 3 - Details discussion

Last Updated: Monday, 02 June 2025 02:44

Written by IELTS Mentor


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Hits: 2069688

After you are done with the ‘Cue Card/ Candidate Task Card’ - which is the second part of the
speaking test - the examiner will move on to part three of the test and ask you some (usually six to
seven questions) questions. These questions are called details discussion or two-way discussion, and
they are related to the cue card topic you were given. You are expected to give a detailed answer to
those questions and sometimes support your answers with relevant examples.

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At a glance:
Speaking test – part 3 (Two-way discussion/ detailed discussion)
Questions: 6 - 7. (Questions are based on the cue card/ candidate task card topic)
Time: 4 - 6 minutes.

Tips:
Try to support your answers with examples and reasons. Also, give lengthy and comprehensive
answers.

Browse the IELTS Speaking Part 3 Topics:

Cue cards

IELTS Speaking Part 3 topics:

Volume 1 | Volume 2 | Volume 3 | Volume 4 | Volume 5 | Volume 6 | Volume 7 | Volume 8


|

More Resource: Useful Expressions to use in IELTS Speaking part 3

Topics: 1. Family. 2. School rules & Working in the legal profession. 3. Choosing work & Work-Life
balance. 4. Sports and competition. 5. Young people and cooking & Working as a chef. 6. Looking
after historic places & The teaching of history at school. 7. Rewards for children at school & Rewards
for sportspeople. 8. Online reviews & Customer service. 9. People's cinema-going habits nowadays
& more... 10. Travel and transport. 11. Shopping online & The culture of consumerism. 12.
Universities. 13. Reading books. 14. Media & news. 15. Driving a car & Electric cars. 16. The
Internet. 17. The beauty industry & Beauty and culture. 18. Museums and art galleries & The
holiday industry. 19. Visiting cities on holiday & The growth of cities. 20. Staying in hotels & Working
in a hotel.

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IELTS Speaking Part 3 Topic: Family.

1. Is family important in your country?


2. How has the size of the family changed in the last few decades in your country?
3. How do you think the family will change in the future?
4. What role do grandparents play in the family in your country?
5. Who do you think should be responsible for the care of the elderly, the family or the government?
6. Why is the number of joint families decreasing in modern times?

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Q. 1: Is family important in your country?


Answer: Yes, in my view family is extremely important in my country. People have strong emotional
ties with their family members, and they consider their family as the foundation of support, love, and
guidance. Most individuals prioritise their family’s well-being over personal ambitions, and it is
common for family members to help each other in difficult times. Even though modern life has made
people busier, family gatherings and traditions are still valued and celebrated widely in my country
and many parts of the world.

Alternative Answer: Thank you for this question. Well, people in my country believe that family
comes first and they put their family ahead of anything else. They would do anything for the family,
and I am proud that family bonding in my country is quite strong.

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Q. 2: How has the size of the family changed in the last few decades in your country?
Answer: Over the past few decades, the size of families in my country has significantly decreased. In
the past, joint families, where multiple generations lived together under one roof, were the norm.
However, with urbanisation, changing lifestyles, and economic pressures, nuclear families have
become more common. People are moving to cities for jobs, and the cost of living has made it
difficult to maintain large families. As a result, families today typically consist of just parents and their
children, rather than extended relatives. Single-parent families - comprising of only a mom or dad
and children have also increased.

Alternative Answer: From my experience, I can say that my grandfather had an extended family and
people at that time used to live together with close relatives. As far as I have heard, their forefathers
also lived in a joint family and the number of family members was sometimes more than twenty!
However, the trend of living in an extended family has changed remarkably in cities where most of
the families are nuclear in nature. The villages in my country still have large families who live
together but the number is shrinking day by day.

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Q. 3: How do you think the family will change in the future?


Answer: In the future, I think families will continue to become smaller, and more people may choose
to live independently. With technological advancements, virtual communication may replace
traditional family gatherings to some extent. Additionally, the concept of family may become more
flexible, with more acceptance of single-parent families, same-sex couples raising children, and even
friends living together as a form of chosen family. However, despite these changes, emotional
connections and the need for family support will always remain essential in people’s lives.

Alternative Answer: I believe more people will have a nuclear family and the size of the family will be
small in the future. Many people, in our country, do not like to have more than two children
nowadays and who knows they will consider having one baby policy in the distant future. The very
norm that a man gets married to a woman and has their own children to form a family is being
challenged by the concept of same-sex marriage and this trend will increase in the future. I also
believe that the number of single-parent families will increase in the future.

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Q. 4: What role do grandparents play in the family in your country?


Answer: Grandparents play a significant role in families in my country. They are often seen as sources
of wisdom and guidance, passing down traditions, values, and cultural knowledge to younger
generations. In many cases, they help in raising children, especially when both parents are working.
Additionally, grandparents provide emotional support and often act as mediators in family conflicts.
However, as families become more nuclear, the involvement of grandparents has decreased, and
many elderly people now live separately from their children.

Alternative Answer: Grandparents in a family are like the pillars of virtue and they play an important
role. They maintain a balance for the family by nurturing the old traditions and values and teaching
how to adhere to the roots. With the increasing number of "both working parents", grandparents
often look after the children. They often advise the rest of the family from time to time regarding
family matters as they have more experience and thus their advice often saves us from making wrong
decisions. In this regard, they act like reliable mentors.

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Q. 5: Who do you think should be responsible for the care of the elderly, the family or the
government?
Answer: Ideally, both the family and the government should share the responsibility of caring for the
elderly. Families should provide emotional support, companionship, and care to their ageing parents,
as it is a moral and cultural duty. However, not all families are financially capable of supporting their
elderly relatives, and in such cases, the government should step in. Governments should provide
healthcare, pensions, and senior care facilities to ensure that elderly people can live with dignity,
even if they do not have family support.

Alternative Answer: I believe the family has the major responsibility to look after their elderly family
members and support them personally as they did in their youth age. These senior citizens have
sacrificed a lot throughout their lives to form a family and then to make them happy. The young
members should do everything in their power to accompany their elderly members and provide
them with their necessities.

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Having said that, the government has some responsibilities as well. These senior members were once
taxpayers and thus they deserve healthcare, social welfare, entertainment and other facilities from
the state.
Q. 6: Why is the number of joint families decreasing in modern times?
Answer: I believe the number of joint families has been decreasing in recent times due to several
reasons. One of the main reasons is urbanisation - people are moving to cities for better job
opportunities and living in smaller apartments, which makes it difficult to accommodate extended
family members. Secondly, modern lifestyles have changed, with younger generations preferring
more independence and privacy. Economic factors also play a role, as the cost of living has increased,
making it harder to support a large family. Finally, differences in opinions and lifestyle choices
between generations often lead to conflicts, making nuclear families a more practical choice for
many people.

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Alternative Answer: I believe the city-centric life, which is highly competitive and busy, has
diminished the concept of the joint family and increased the concept of the nuclear family. Besides
the urban influence, ever-increasing inflation, our affection towards a materialistic life and less
inclination towards traditions and values have fueled this trend.

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IELTS Speaking Part 3 Topic: School rules & Working in the legal profession.

[Discussion topic: School rules]

Q. What kinds of rules are common in a school?


Q. How important is it to have rules in a school?
Q. What do you recommend should happen if children break school rules?

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[Discussion topic: Working in the legal profession]

Q. Can you suggest why many students decide to study law at university?
Q. What are the key personal qualities needed to be a successful lawyer?
Q. Do you agree that working in the legal profession is very stressful?

[School rules]
Q. What kinds of rules are common in a school?
Answer: Schools, in my country, typically enforce rules that encourage discipline, safety, and effective
learning environments. Common examples of such rules include attendance and punctuality, wearing
proper uniforms, respecting teachers and fellow students, and completing assignments on time.
Additionally, schools often prohibit behaviours such as bullying, cheating, and using mobile phones
during class to maintain a focused and respectful atmosphere.

Q. How important is it to have rules in a school?


Answer: I believe that it is essential to have rules in a school because they provide structure and
clarity regarding acceptable behaviour. Rules also help establish a respectful environment where
students feel safe, enabling them to concentrate better on learning. Additionally, clear rules teach
young people responsibility and prepare them for real-life situations where following guidelines is
crucial. Without clear rules, I believe, schools could become chaotic, negatively impacting students’
education and development.

Q. What do you recommend should happen if children break school rules?


Answer: In my opinion, if young students break school rules, the response should ideally be
educational rather than purely punitive. Schools should first communicate clearly with students to
ensure they understand why their behaviour was inappropriate. Depending on the severity,
consequences could include warnings, counselling, or temporary privileges removal. Serious or
repeated violations might require stronger measures, such as involving parents or temporary
suspension. The key is that consequences should always encourage reflection and improvement
rather than simply punishing the student.

[Working in the legal profession]


Q. Can you suggest why many students decide to study law at university?
Answer: Many students choose to study law because it offers a respected career with clear
opportunities for growth and stability in my country as well as many countries around the world. Law
graduates often find attractive career options in both public and private sectors, which typically
promise good salaries and job security. Additionally, the field appeals to students who have a strong
sense of justice and want to positively impact society, such as defending human rights or advocating
for the less privileged. The intellectual challenge and prestige associated with the legal profession
also attract many ambitious students.

Q. What are the key personal qualities needed to be a successful lawyer?


Answer: A successful lawyer, in my opinion, needs to possess strong communication skills, both
verbal and written, as clearly presenting arguments is fundamental in legal work. They must also be
analytical and capable of critical thinking, enabling them to assess complex situations and formulate
effective solutions. Additionally, attention to detail is vital, as minor oversights can have significant
legal consequences. Lastly, integrity, perseverance, and emotional resilience are necessary, given that
legal work often involves handling stressful or ethically challenging cases.

Q. Do you agree that working in the legal profession is very stressful?


Answer: Yes, I agree that the legal profession can be very stressful. Lawyers often face demanding
workloads, tight deadlines, and high expectations from clients and employers. Furthermore, handling
sensitive or controversial cases can create emotional and psychological pressures. The responsibility
of representing others and ensuring justice can also add significant stress. However, despite these
challenges, effective stress management strategies and a strong passion for their work enable many
legal professionals to succeed and even thrive in their careers.

IELTS Speaking Part 3 Topic: Choosing work & Work-Life balance.

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[Discussion topic: Choosing work]

Q. 1. What kinds of jobs do young people not want to do in your country?


Q. 2. Who is best at advising young people about choosing a job: teachers or parents?
Q. 3. Is money always the most important thing when choosing a job?

[Discusion topic: Work-Life balance]


Q. 4. Do you agree that many people nowadays are under pressure to work longer hours and take
fewer holidays?
Q. 5. What is the impact on society of people having a poor work-life balance?
Q. 6. Could you recommend some effective strategies for governments and employers to ensure
people have a good work-life balance?

[Choosing work]
Q. 1. What kinds of jobs do young people not want to do in your country?
Answer: Well, in my country, we almost always have had a big problem of unemployment among
young people, and therefore, there aren’t exactly too many jobs that they don’t want to do.
However, as far as I have found out, jobs like “outside sales”, “medical representatives” and other
“service-oriented” jobs, that require longer hours of work, are not looked upon very favourably by
the young adults in my country. They don’t also like “elementary teaching” jobs because they require
a lot of patience (after all, teaching little kids can be really challenging).

Q. 2. Who is best at advising young people about choosing a job: teachers or parents?
Answer: In my humble opinion, teachers are best at advising young people about choosing a job
primarily because they are usually the ones who work tirelessly at schools and colleges to unlock the
potential of young adults. Besides, through the continuous interaction with their students in classes,
it is the teachers who are better positioned to identify the skills and expertise of the young people
and thus are able to guide them to choose careers that are suitable for them.

Q. 3. Is money always the most important thing when choosing a job?


Answer: No, I don’t really think that money is “always” ("always" is the keyword here) the most
important thing when choosing a job, primarily because money doesn’t always buy “happiness” or
“job satisfaction” no matter how much of it, we really have. Besides, if I am being paid a lot of
“money”, but what I do as a “job” is not considered to be “important”, then the chances are that I
won’t be able to perform to my full potential despite my best intention. Money is an important thing
for us to do a job but I do not believe that it is the most important aspect of a job.

[Work-Life balance]
Q. 4. Do you agree that many people nowadays are under pressure to work longer hours and take
fewer holidays?
Answer: Yes, many people are indeed under huge pressure nowadays to work longer hours and
enjoy fewer holidays mainly because most of them are struggling to keep up with the soaring living
expenses. Then, some people are under pressure to work extra hours also because they are simply
being “exploited” by their employers. Then, there is another group of people who are under pressure
to work longer hours because they want to meet their additional demand for more comfort and
luxuries of life.

Q. 5. What is the impact on society of people having a poor work-life balance?


Answer: The impact of people, having a poor work-life balance, on society is multi-dimensional. In a
society, where people are either working too much or sitting idle for too long, there won’t be enough
people to take responsibility in order to carry forward the nation to its full potential. Working too
much would without enough opportunity to relax with families and friends, the people in society
would go through mental depression which, in turn, would result in inefficiency and lesser
productivity at work. On the other hand, if people in a society are “sitting idle” for too long, the
entire society would be negatively affected by crimes and other anti-social activities.
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Q. 6. Could you recommend some effective strategies for governments and employers to ensure
people have a good work-life balance?
Answer: Governments and employers can do several things to ensure a good work-life balance for
employees. First, employers can offer “flexibility” with work schedules, whenever possible, so that
the employees can have little time to spend with their families and friends in between work hours.
Employers can also allow some “unpaid time off” (not getting paid for the off days) so that their staff
can attend some fun and family events. As for the governments, they can create awareness among
people by using different media outlets in order to highlight the benefits of a good work-life balance.
Governments can also arrange for an “annual award” option for the companies/employers who
actively work to promote “work-life” balance among their employees.

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IELTS Speaking Part 3 Topic: Sports and competition.

1. Why are some sports fans so passionate?


2. Is there any violence at sporting events in your country?[Why/why not?]
3. Should athletes be better role models? [Why/ why not?]
4. What benefits do international sporting events bring?
5. Is it important for a country to win lots of medals? [Why / why not?]
6. The money professional sportsmen earn is significantly higher than that the earnings of other
professionals. Is it justified?

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Q. 1: Why are some sports fans so passionate?


Answer: I believe some people love sports more than other forms of entertainment and
competitions, and they always follow their favourite sports on TV. ‘Watching and playing sports’ is
their favourite leisure activity while many of those passionate fans once were players themselves and
played the game in their youth. Growing up, they see their family, friends, and city go wild when a
goal is scored or a game is won. So, it’s natural to follow other’s enthusiasm and cheer for their local
teams. Such attachment often increases their love for sports. In my country, many youths are ardent
fans of football and they have their favourite teams. When their favourite team plays, they take every
opportunity to support them and sometimes go to the stadium to show their support. Sportsmen are
often idolized by youths and they love to follow their favourite sportsmen as enthusiastic followers.

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Q. 2: Is there any violence at sporting events in your country? [Why/ why not?]
Answer: Generally speaking, such violence is very rare in my country. However, a dispute among fans
are quite common and most of the time they are verbal rather than physical. They often use social
networking platforms and blogs to criticise their rivals. I can, however, recall a very unfortunate event
that took place probably three or four years ago when the fans of two competing teams got agitated
and three people died due to this incident while several others were critically injured. The security of
the stadium has been revamped to address such unexpected events and hopefully, it won't happen
again.
Q. 3. Should athletes be better role models? [Why/ why not?]
Answer: I believe most fans start adoring an athlete or a sportsman due to the spectacular
performance he or she shows. Thus football magicians like Cristiano Ronaldo or Lionel Messi have
several million fans and many of them started idolising them without knowing them personally.
However, when these youths start following their favourite sportsmen or athletes, they sometimes
follow them blindly. Thus considering the impact, famous sports personalities should always try to
lead exemplary lives as thousands of others mimic them. They are also famous and the media is
always watching them. Any bad conduct can bring controversy to their fame and they should try to
become better role models for youths as it is a social and moral responsibility for any celebrity.

Q. 4. What benefits do international sporting events bring?


Answer: International sporting events bring nations together and eliminate the tension and hostility
among them. Such an event is highly popular and can be a great reason for people to enjoy the
competition in the stadium. Thus such competitions foster tourism and help local businesses to
flourish. Such prestigious events sometimes encourage young children all around the world to take
some sort of sports. This is good for spreading the essence of sports globally and I think sports have
economic, political and cultural impacts on society.

Q. 5. Is it important for a country to win lots of medals? [Why / why not?]


Answer: I believe every country wants to win as many trophies as possible since it represents how
great a nation is in sports and athleticism. Being at the top of the medallist is often considered a
great achievement but I personally believe that it is not absolutely necessary. Participating in
international sporting events like the Olympics is often inspiring for many small nations. A few
medals could be often satisfying and inspiring for them. The most important thing in an international
sporting competition is being able to perform and enjoy it, not the number of medals won. When
athletes and sportsmen from all around the world gather at a common platform, they not only
represent their own country but also the whole of humanity and this is important for maintaining
global peace and harmony.

Q. 6. The money professional sportsmen earn is significantly higher than that the earning of other
professionals. Is it justified?
Answer: I think very few fortunate sports celebrities earn a hefty amount of money while most
others do not. Considering the training, dedication, challenge and sacrifice that are part of their lives,
the earning, in my opinion, is justified. We have to keep in mind that their career is short-spanned
and they earn because they perform really well. The payment to those celebrities is high because
people buy tickets when they perform and different companies that earn millions of dollars each day
want them as brand ambassadors. Since these payments are legit and transparent, I do not see any
problem if they earn a lot.

IELTS Speaking Part 3 Topic: Young people and cooking & Working as a chef.

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[Discussion topic: Young people and cooking]


Q. What kinds of things can children learn to cook?
Q. Do you think it is important for children to learn to cook?
Q. Do you think young people should learn to cook at home or at school?
[Discussion topic: Working as a chef]
Q. How enjoyable do you think it would be to work as a professional chef?
Q. What skills does a person need to be a great chef?
Q. How much influence do celebrity/TV chefs have on what ordinary people cook?

[Young people and cooking]


Q. What kinds of things can children learn to cook?
Answer: In my opinion, children can start learning to cook simple and safe dishes that require
minimal skills and supervision. For instance, they can prepare sandwiches, salads, smoothies, and
scrambled eggs. As they become more confident and responsible, they could move on to slightly
more complex recipes, such as pasta dishes, baking cookies, cupcakes, or even simple soups and
vegetable stir-fries. These cooking experiences not only encourage creativity but also teach children
valuable life skills and healthy eating habits from an early age.

Q. Do you think it is important for children to learn to cook?


Answer: Yes, I wholeheartedly believe it’s important for children to learn cooking because it
promotes independence, responsibility, and self-reliance. Learning to cook also encourages healthier
eating habits, as children who understand how to prepare meals are less likely to rely on processed
or fast food. Furthermore, cooking is an excellent way to develop creativity, teamwork, and problem-
solving skills, making it beneficial not just in the kitchen, but also in other aspects of life. Thus,
learning basic cooking skills is a valuable and practical aspect of childhood education and learning. I
would even suggest that schools should incorporate some cooking and baking classes for young
children.

Q. Do you think young people should learn to cook at home or at school?


Answer: Ideally, young people should learn to cook both at home and at school, as each
environment provides unique benefits. At home, children learn traditional family recipes and cultural
dishes and benefit from individual attention and nurturing from parents or relatives. In school, on
the other hand, cooking classes offer structured lessons on nutrition, safety, and diverse cuisines.
School cooking classes also provide an opportunity for young people to work with their peers and
enhance their social skills. Combining home and school learning ensures comprehensive cooking
knowledge and well-rounded culinary skills.

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[Working as a chef]
Q. How enjoyable do you think it would be to work as a professional chef?
Answer: Working as a professional chef could be highly enjoyable for someone who has a passion for
cooking and creativity. The profession allows chefs to experiment with ingredients, flavours, and
presentation, bringing a sense of fulfillment and artistic expression. However, being a chef also
involves high-pressure environments, long working hours, and constant physical demands, which
could be challenging for many people. Ultimately, how enjoyable this job is depends largely on the
individual's passion for food, resilience under pressure, and ability to handle stress while maintaining
a love for the culinary arts.

Q. What skills does a person need to be a great chef?


Answer: A great chef needs a combination of culinary and personal skills. Essential culinary skills
include mastery of cooking techniques, understanding of flavours and ingredients, and the ability to
create and innovate recipes. Apart from these, time management, multitasking, and organizational
abilities are crucial in a busy kitchen environment. Effective communication and leadership skills are
also vital, especially when working within a team. Finally, creativity, patience, attention to detail, and
the ability to stay calm under pressure greatly contribute to a chef's success and reputation.

Q. How much influence do celebrity/TV chefs have on what ordinary people cook?
Answer: Celebrity or TV chefs have a substantial influence on ordinary people's cooking habits and
preferences. Their popularity and charisma inspire viewers to try new recipes, ingredients, and
cooking techniques at home. They often set food trends, influencing dietary choices, kitchen styles,
and even the types of products people buy. Moreover, these chefs frequently emphasize cooking as
accessible and enjoyable, encouraging more people to cook at home rather than relying on takeaway
or convenience foods. However, the extent of this influence varies depending on an individual's
interest in cooking and their willingness to experiment in the kitchen.

IELTS Speaking Part 3 Topic: Looking after historic places & The teaching of history at school.

IELTS mentorship program

[Discussion topic: Looking after historic places]

1. How do people in your country feel about protecting historic buildings?


2. Do you think an area can benefit from having an interesting historic place locally? In what way?
3. What do you think will happen to historic places or buildings in the future? Why?

[Discussion topic: The teaching of history at school]


4. How were you taught history when you were at school?
5. Are there other ways people can learn about history, apart from at school? How?
6. Do you think history will still be a school subject in the future? Why?

[Looking after historic places]

Q. 1: How do people in your country feel about protecting historic buildings?


Answer: I believe people from my country would want to protect and preserve important historic
buildings except maybe a few who put business ahead of their morality and rational thinking. We had
our moments when people spontaneously protested the plan to demolish such sites in the past. Due
to a huge public backlash and outcry, the authority had been forced to abandon their plan to build
multi-storied commercial buildings by smashing the old buildings that have historical significance.
Thus citizens in my country are sensitive about protecting anything that has historical importance.

Alternative Answer: People in my country generally have a strong sense of pride in protecting
historic buildings, as they represent our cultural heritage and national identity. There is a growing
awareness about the importance of preserving these buildings for future generations, and many
people support initiatives to restore and maintain historical sites. For example, several historic
landmarks, such as ancient temples and colonial-era architecture, are considered national treasures.
Government and private organisations often collaborate to ensure their conservation.

Q. 2: Do you think an area can benefit from having an interesting historic place locally? In what
way?
Answer: Definitely an area with an interesting historic place can reap the benefits from different
perspectives. First, such a place would attract a huge number of tourists and help grow different local
businesses. Besides, such areas are strategically important for the local government and it can bring
more development projects to the area. The government takes extra measures to protect such areas
from natural disasters and thus get more attention. On top of that, the flourishing tourism of the
area spreads the local customs and traditions to other parts of the country. Thus the development of
such a region occurs faster than in other areas.

Alternative Answer: Yes, an area can definitely benefit from having an interesting historic place
locally, both economically and culturally. Historic sites often attract tourists, which can boost local
businesses like hotels, restaurants, and souvenir shops. For example, cities with historical landmarks,
such as the ancient city of Pompeii in Italy or the Great Wall of China, attract millions of visitors every
year, significantly contributing to the local economy. These places also foster a sense of community
pride, as they connect people to their cultural roots. Additionally, having historic places nearby can
provide educational opportunities for local schools and residents, helping them better understand
their heritage and fostering a sense of responsibility to protect it.

Q. 3. What do you think will happen to historic places or buildings in the future? Why?
Answer: That is hard to tell and all would depend on the future generation. If they feel that such
locations and buildings are worth preserving, the authorities would take steps to protect them.
Otherwise, many of them, which are less internationally known, would disappear and would be
converted into ultramodern commercial buildings. Prominent sites, on the other hand, will be
preserved as they will attract many international tourists. Some of them will be debilitated due to
the lack of maintenance and funding. I think the main reason some of the historic places and
buildings will disappear is that they are less popular and can't sell tickets to tourists. So the authority
or the owner would like to convert them for business purposes. Urbanisation, pollution and the need
for more buildings for the increasing population are threats to such historic sites.

Alternative Answer: In the future, historic places and buildings will likely continue to face both
challenges and opportunities. As urbanisation and modern development progress, some historic
buildings may be at risk of being demolished or repurposed to make way for new constructions.
However, there is also a growing global focus on preserving cultural heritage, with many
governments and organisations investing in the restoration and protection of these sites. For
example, UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites programme has helped safeguard some of the world’s most
iconic landmarks. I believe that while some historic buildings may be lost due to development, many
will continue to be valued and protected due to their cultural significance and the global push for
conservation.

[The teaching of history at school]

Q. 4: How were you taught history when you were at school?


Answer: Our teachers mainly taught us history from the textbooks and we were lucky to have a few
amazing teachers who explained how history is important to understand the future. They often
explained important events and characters from history and told us how these events and powerful
men have shaped future events. We were required to study history books and watch documentaries
made on real historical facts and those were not included in our syllabus. Thus we were able to learn
more about history. Our school authority took us to different museums and historic sites, generally
two to three times a year, and those excursions were our chances to explore more and witness the
artefacts from the past. I can recall one particular occasion when we were taken to a war museum
and we learned how wars that we hate so much had such profound impacts on our human society.
Alternative Answer: When I was in school, history was taught in a traditional classroom setting,
where we focused primarily on memorising key dates, events, and historical figures. The lessons
were often lecture-based, with the teacher explaining the content from textbooks, and we would
typically take notes during class. We learned about national history, as well as world history, and
there was a strong emphasis on the political, social, and economic aspects of different historical
periods. While we did occasionally watch videos or engage in discussions, most of our learning was
based on written material and exams.

Q. 5: Are there other ways people can learn about history, apart from at school? How?
Answer: I believe reading about history and researching it online is the best way to learn more
about it. What we learn about history in our school is just the beginning. To truly explore the past,
we need to read a lot of books and the book choices should be based on the interests of the readers.
The Internet is an amazing tool that can help us learn about our past and the interactive videos
found on different websites are truly helpful. It allows us to dive deeper into history. Finally,
travelling is an excellent way to learn about the world we live in and how this world was shaped by
different civilisations. Someone who travels extensively learns about history faster and witnesses
history instead of assuming or imagining it.

Alternative Answer: Yes, there are many ways people can learn about history outside of school, and
in fact, informal learning can sometimes be more engaging and accessible, in my opinion. Visiting
museums, historical sites, and monuments is one of the best ways to experience history firsthand.
For example, people can learn about ancient civilizations by visiting archaeological sites or cultural
landmarks. Documentaries and history-based films also offer a more visual and narrative-driven
approach to history, making it easier to understand complex events. Additionally, online platforms
like podcasts, YouTube channels, and interactive websites provide a wealth of resources for learning
about historical events from different perspectives. Reading books and articles written by historians
or people from different cultural backgrounds can also deepen one’s understanding of history in a
more nuanced way.

Q. 6: Do you think history will still be a school subject in the future? Why?
Answer: I believe history is not merely a collection of past events, stories of civilisations and
powerful characters. It is rather a way to look at the future. Thus the importance of history in the
future will increase and more students will be interested in learning about it than today. We are yet
to comprehend the full potential of history and it is still frowned upon as a subject for weaker
students. But in the future, we will realise how important it is for people to learn it for a prosperous
future. So I do not see any reason history will disappear from the school syllabus.

Alternative Answer: Yes, I believe history will continue to be a key subject in schools in the future,
despite the rise of technology and changing curricula. Understanding history is essential for fostering
a sense of identity, cultural awareness, and critical thinking. History provides context for current
events, helping students understand how the world has evolved and why societies operate the way
they do. In the future, the way history is taught may change, with more emphasis on interactive
methods like virtual reality or immersive experiences, but the subject will remain crucial. Moreover,
history helps cultivate important skills, such as research, analysis, and the ability to evaluate sources,
which are valuable in any field. As long as we continue to value education and cultural preservation,
history will remain an important part of school curricula.
IELTS Speaking Part 3 Topic: Rewards for children at school & Rewards for sportspeople.

[Rewards for children at school]

Q. What types of school prizes do children in your country receive?


Q. What do you think are the advantages of rewarding schoolchildren for good work?
Q. Do you agree that it's more important for children to receive rewards from their parents than
from teachers?

[Rewards for sportspeople]

Q. Do you think that some sportspeople (e.g. top footballers) are paid too much money?
Q. Should everyone on a team get the same prize money when they win?
Q. Do you agree with the view that, in sport, taking part is more important than winning?

[Rewards for children at school]


Q. What types of school prizes do children in your country receive?
Answer: In my country, children receive various school prizes such as certificates for academic
excellence, medals or trophies for outstanding achievements in sports or extracurricular activities,
and awards for exceptional attendance and behaviour. Sometimes, schools also provide practical
rewards like books, stationery items, and gift vouchers to motivate students and encourage them to
continue their good work.

Q. What do you think are the advantages of rewarding schoolchildren for good work?
Answer: I believe rewarding schoolchildren for good work has several benefits. Firstly, it motivates
students to perform well academically and participate actively in school activities. Secondly, it boosts
their confidence and self-esteem, helping them develop a positive attitude towards learning. Finally,
rewards reinforce good habits and behaviours, encouraging students to consistently maintain high
standards in their work and conduct.

Q. Do you agree that it's more important for children to receive rewards from their parents than
from teachers?
Answer: I believe both parental and teacher rewards are important, but rewards from parents might
have a deeper emotional impact on children. Recognition from parents often creates a strong sense
of support and acceptance at home, boosting children's confidence and motivation significantly.
However, teachers’ rewards also play a crucial role in shaping children's academic and social
development, as recognition from teachers validates their efforts and achievements in a school
environment. Ideally, children should receive balanced recognition from both parents and teachers.

[Rewards for sportspeople]


Q. Do you think that some sportspeople (e.g. top footballers) are paid too much money?
Answer: Yes, I do believe that some top athletes, especially footballers, receive excessively high
salaries. While their talent and hard work are undeniable, the huge sums of money paid to them
seem disproportionate compared to other important professions, such as teaching or healthcare.
Although these salaries are driven by sponsorship deals, media attention, and ticket sales, I think this
is still a huge sum of money compared to the earnings of many other important professionals.

Q. Should everyone on a team get the same prize money when they win?
Answer: Personally, I think equal prize money within a winning team is a fair practice because a team
victory is a collective effort. Each player, regardless of their visible contribution, supports the team's
success in some way. Unequal distribution might lead to resentment and negatively impact team
morale and cohesion. However, separate bonuses for exceptional individual performances could also
be considered as long as the base reward remains equal.

Q. Do you agree with the view that, in sport, taking part is more important than winning?
Answer: Yes, I strongly agree that participation in sports is more important than winning. Engaging in
sports teaches valuable life skills such as teamwork, discipline, perseverance, and sportsmanship.
Although winning feels great and provides motivation, the experiences and personal growth gained
from participating often have more significant, long-lasting benefits. Ultimately, the true value of
sports lies in personal improvement and enjoying the activity rather than solely focusing on the
result.

IELTS Speaking Part 3 Topic: Online reviews & Customer service.

[Discussion topic: Online reviews]

Q. What kinds of things do people write online reviews about in your country?
Q. Why do some people write online reviews?
Q. Do you think that online reviews are good for both shoppers and companies?

[Discussion topic: Customer service]

Q. What do you think it might be like to work in a customer service job?


Q. Do you agree that customers are more likely to complain nowadays?
Q. How important is it for companies to take all customer complaints seriously?

[Online reviews]
Q. 1: What kinds of things do people write online reviews about in your country?
Answer: Online review is a rather widespread thing in my country these days since buying and selling
all sorts of things online is becoming popular. But, generally speaking, people in my country like to
make online reviews, mostly on things like what they eat at a restaurant, and what kinds of clothing
or fashionable items they buy online. Many a time, these days, we also see online reviews on the
many grocery items that we buy on a regular basis. So, it is pretty much all kinds of things – things
that are sold both online and offline - on which people leave their online reviews.

Alternative Answer: Well, I'd say people write online reviews about pretty much anything these
days. Restaurants and hotels are probably the most common, but I've also seen plenty of reviews
about products like electronics or clothes. Even experiences, such as movies, concerts, or tourist
attractions, often get reviewed. It seems people love sharing their opinions, whether good or bad,
especially if it helps others decide whether something's worth their time or money.

Q. 2: Why do some people write online reviews?


Answer: Well, some people like to write online reviews, or it could be offline reviews as well,
primarily because they want to communicate certain messages to the online community about the
products or services that they buy online. Besides, as humans, we all feel that we should make our
voices and opinions heard on any kind of things which, we think, are important to us. And, since
online review is such a hassle-free way of making our voices and opinions heard, we like to use these
online review platforms whenever they fit our needs.
Alternative Answer: I think there are several reasons for this. Firstly, many people genuinely want to
help others make informed decisions - so they'll write a review after they've had a particularly good
or bad experience. Secondly, some people just enjoy expressing their opinions online; it's become a
bit of a habit. And, let's face it, sometimes people write reviews because companies offer incentives,
like discounts or rewards. But overall, I think it's mostly driven by people's desire to share their
experiences and help others.

Q. 3: Do you think that online reviews are good for both shoppers and companies?
Answer: Yes, I have no doubt in my mind that online reviews are good for both shoppers and
companies alike. Talking from the point of view of shoppers, online reviews allow them to either
encourage or warn their fellow shoppers about what to buy and what not to buy online. Now, as for
the companies, such online reviews allow the companies to adjust their business strategies and
policies according to the wishes and demands of their current and prospective customers – a
business practice which, in turn, can help these companies boost their sales and revenue.

Alternative Answer: Absolutely, I think it's a win-win situation. For shoppers, online reviews provide
real-life insights from other customers, making their purchasing decisions easier and more reliable.
On the other hand, companies benefit too, because honest reviews help them understand what
they're doing right or wrong. Even negative feedback can be valuable, as it shows businesses exactly
where they need to improve. So, I think overall, reviews create transparency and encourage better
quality and service.

[Customer service]
Q. 4: What do you think it might be like to work in a customer service job?
Answer: Well, from what I have seen or experienced so far, all I can say is that the customer service
job is a rather challenging profession since it involves continuous talking or engagement with people
– people who have all kinds of different views, ideas, tastes, preferences, culture, backgrounds and
lifestyles. And that’s exactly why one has to be really upbeat and resourceful if he/she wants to deal
with these different kinds of people smoothly. Otherwise, these types of jobs can be very tiring, if
not annoying and frustrating, most of the time, instead of actually being rewarding.

Alternative Answer: Well, to be honest, I imagine working in customer service can be quite
challenging at times. On the one hand, it can be rewarding when you help people resolve their
problems, and they genuinely appreciate your effort. But on the other hand, dealing with frustrated
or upset customers regularly could be stressful. I suppose it requires a lot of patience, good
communication skills, and a thick skin to handle the occasional difficult situation gracefully.

Q. 5: Do you agree that customers are more likely to complain nowadays?


Answer: I don’t think that the scenario of customer complaints nowadays is much different than
what it actually used to be in the past except, of course, these days, it is easier to complain than
what it used to be before. Besides, it is only natural that the more types of products and services we
use (meaning more of our money, resources, time and efforts are being used), the greater the
possibility of more and more complaints. So, again, speaking logically, I don’t think that people
nowadays are likely to complain more, it is just that the number of products and customers are
higher these days and so it seems that more customers are complaining today.

Alternative Answer: Yes, I'd say that's probably true. People nowadays have higher expectations
regarding customer service, partly because companies often promise great service to attract
customers. Plus, with social media and online platforms, it's easier and quicker to express
dissatisfaction than before. Customers are also more aware of their rights, which means they're less
likely to tolerate poor service quietly. So, all things considered, it's understandable that complaints
are more common today.

Q. 6: How important is it for companies to take all customer complaints seriously?


Answer: I have read somewhere that the principle, on which, a business should conduct its business
is that “the customers are always right” (even when it’s actually the customers’ fault). So, from that
point of view, it is absolutely necessary that companies take the customers’ complaints rather
seriously if they really want to gain the trust and confidence of their customers. Besides, customer
complaints can also sometimes help companies improve their products and services in order to have
a competitive edge over their competitors.

Alternative Answer: In my opinion, it's crucial for companies to take every complaint seriously.
Ignoring customer issues can lead to dissatisfaction, negative reviews, and damage to their
reputation. Conversely, companies that actively listen and respond promptly to complaints not only
retain customers but often turn dissatisfied customers into loyal ones. When businesses show
genuine care, it demonstrates commitment and builds trust. So, I'd say addressing complaints
effectively is essential for long-term success.

IELTS Speaking Part 3 Topic: People's cinema-going habits nowadays & more...

[Topic: People's cinema-going habits nowadays]


1. Do you think the cinema has increased or decreased in popularity in recent years?
2. In your opinion, will this trend continue in the future?

[Topic: Making a film or TV drama of real/fictional events]


3. What are the advantages and disadvantages of making films of real-life events?
4. How important do you think it is for a filmmaker to remain true to the original story?

[Topic: Censorship and the freedom of the fil-maker/TV producer]


5. Should films and television be censored or should we be free to choose what we see?
6. How do you think censorship laws will change in the next 20 years?

[Topic: People's cinema-going habits nowadays]

Q. 1: Do you think the cinema has increased or decreased in popularity in recent years?
Answer: That's a bit complex issue as the answer might seem paradoxical. Well, I heartily believe
that more people enjoy movies today than ever before but most of them do not go to a movie
theatre to enjoy a movie. Thus the cinema halls have lost their glorious days, especially in my
country, but an increasing number of people make time to watch movies either on TVs or on their
computers. Gone are the days when my parents used to take me to a movie theatre and that was
once in a while. These days we enjoy more than 3-4 movies a week but do not go to a cinema hall at
all. I believe the popularity of international movies, the decreasing quality of local movies in some
countries, and technological developments are the reasons for this shifting trend.

Q. 2: In your opinion, will this trend continue in the future?


Answer: Unless radical changes are brought to the cinema halls and restrictions are imposed on the
way we stream and watch the latest movies at home, the trend will continue in the future. Movie
theatres would lose their attractions further and technology would assist us to watch movies on
demand at home. However, some people will still go to the cinema with friends and family to enjoy a
movie on a day out.

[Topic: Making a film or TV drama of real/fictional events]

Q. 3: What are the advantages and disadvantages of making films of real-life events?
Answer: Among the advantages, I assume, those movies have a ready-made plot, the storylines are
already popular and the producer can think of characters easily. Such movies often win awards
considering their historical values and are positively taken by the audience and critics.

However, there are some drawbacks to making such movies based on real-life events. First and
foremost, people and critics scrutinise such movies more thoroughly and they are often subject to
controversy. Secondly, the story is already known to people and the movie has to promise something
more than its storyline. Furthermore, making such movies requires a huge sum of money and they
often end up poorly at the box office.

Q. 4: How important do you think it is for a filmmaker to remain true to the original story?
Answer: I believe true facts from history should be intact in a movie and every filmmaker should
adhere to the truth as much as possible while making a movie based on a real-life event or a
prominent historical figure. Otherwise, the film would end up receiving resentments and negative
criticism from ordinary viewers as well as from movie critics. Sometimes, a filmmaker needs to add
some surprises and twists to make such a movie more appealing but they can always do so by not
distorting the main facts. We should keep in mind that children who watch such movies often take
them as evidence of real events from history. So such movies should not misrepresent history and
invite controversy.

[Topic: Censorship and the freedom of the fil-maker/TV producer]

Q. 5: Should films and television be censored or should we be free to choose what we see?
Answer: I believe some sort of censorship is required in the TV and film industry so that we can enjoy
movies and watch TV programmes without embarrassment and getting offended. For instance, if I
started watching a movie with my parents and the film had too many sensual and violent scenes, we
would feel embarrassed. Since movies have a major impact on the viewers' minds, we should not
allow too much violence, hatred and offensive scenes to be shown. However, I also believe that
creative artists should be allowed to express their feelings and thoughts through these media. Hence,
too much tight censorship -as we see in some countries - is not desirable as well. We, as adults,
might often choose what we want to watch but we should always monitor what our youngsters are
watching for their own good.

Q. 6: How do you think censorship laws will change in the next 20 years?
Answer: Well, that's a tough question to answer, but I will nevertheless try! In my opinion, after two
decades or so, some first-world countries, where censorship laws are too flexible, would find
themselves amending laws to make them more a bit rigid. While an opposite approach would be
taken in developing countries to give more freedom to creative artists. All countries, in my opinion,
will try to make a balance in censorship laws to make it more friendly and helpful to the viewers and
filmmakers.
IELTS Speaking Part 3 Topic: Travel and transport.

1. How easy is it to travel around your country?


2. Which method of travel do you consider the safest? [Why?]
3. Has travel become safer in recent years than that was in the past?
4. What are the pros and cons of low-cost air travel?
5. How do you think people will travel in the future?
6. Should the government in a country focus more on rail transports or road transports? [Why?]

Q. 1: How easy is it to travel around your country?


Answer: We have a good number of public transportation including bullet trains, modern buses and
aeroplanes and I would say someone can travel in my country very easily. Major cities in my country
have airports and it makes commuters' lives hassle-free. Since we have eight-lane highways and they
are maintained periodically, someone can drive his/her own car to commute from one area to
another smoothly. Besides, metro rails are convenient for city-dwellers to commute to and from their
offices and citizens can take long-route trains to visit other districts and they are comparatively
cheaper.

Q. 2: Which method of travel do you consider the safest? [Why?]


Answer: Despite some common misconceptions, I believe airways are the safest means of
transportation. We have frequent national and international flights and the service is really excellent.
Aviation accidents are deadly and claim the lives of many, and such accidents often make headlines
which gives an impression that air travel is nocuous. However, if we compare air causalities with that
of road accidents, we can easily learn that air travel is the safest. Flying is the most secure way to get
around in my country as flights are well-organised and the air traffic is controlled more efficiently by
trained professionals.

Q. 3: Has travel become safer in recent years than that was in the past?
Answer: Some people would say that accidents and casualties are higher in modern times than in the
past. But I believe that travelling in recent years has significantly improved and offers more
convenience to commuters. We see more accidents these days because they all are being reported in
the news, unlike in the past when we could hear about only major accidents. In recent days, we have
more strict traffic rules, acute safety measures including biometric checking, and modern
transportation which are built considering safety in mind. Rigid airport rules make terrorist attacks
almost impossible.

A typical train station in my country has more than 15 train schedules and they carry thousands of
passengers each day. Such a station used to have only three to four trains a day. If we consider the
number of vehicles and commuters with that of the past, we would get a real picture of road safety,
which I believe has advanced in recent days.

Q. 4: What are the pros and cons of low-cost air travel?


Answer: The major benefit of cheap air travel is that many people can afford to visit more places
around the world, and foster the tourism industry. More frequent travels by ordinary people make
them tolerable to other cultures and it maintains global peace.

Among the demerits, increasing flights are responsible for air pollution. Cheap air travel attracts
more passengers and thus they indirectly contribute to air pollution. Moreover, low-cost air tickets
do not ensure desirable comfort and amenities which people often regret. Food and drinks on such a
journey are unreasonably expensive and it often includes hidden fees and charges.

Q. 5: How do you think people will travel in the future?


Answer: That's an interesting question and I will be both realistic and imaginative to answer this. I
believe people will prefer to take aeroplanes and speedy trains in the near future to travel long-
distance and flights will be cheaper to attract more passengers. Cars would be our constant
companion and we would rely on our automobiles more than ever to travel within the city.

After 30 or 40 years, our cars would be able to fly short-distance and even run on the river, much like
a science-fiction vehicle. After 50 years or so, we will have flying cars that will take us to our offices
and the software instead of humans will drive those cars. A century later, we will have personal pods
of SkyTran Carrier that would use the airways rather than moving on a road. After a few centuries
later, who knows, we might even teleport straight to our destination from our home!

Q. 6: Should the government in a country focus more on rail transports or road transports? [Why?]
Answer: I believe the decision should be made based on the geological condition, existing
infrastructure, population and economic condition of the country. For instance, if a country has
mostly hilly tracks and rivers, developing rail tracks is both challenging and expensive. For such
countries, connecting highways and road transports are more practical and cost-effective. Moreover,
if the country does not have enough rail tracks already, it should focus on developing and enhancing
roads rather than rails. Finally, countries with higher populations should consider developing their
railroads as they can carry a great number of people at a time. Whether to invest in road or rail
transportation, thus, should be made based on a number of factors rather than a single one.

IELTS Speaking Part 3 Topic: Shopping online & The culture of consumerism.

[Discussion topic: Shopping online]

Q. What kinds of things do people in your country often buy from online shops?
Q. Why do you think online shopping has become so popular nowadays?
Q. What are some possible disadvantages of buying things from online shops?

[Discussion topic: The culture of consumerism]

Q. Why do many people today keep buying things which they do not need?
Q. Do you believe the benefits of a consumer society outweigh the disadvantages?
Q. How possible is it to avoid the culture of consumerism?

[Shopping online]
Q. What kinds of things do people in your country often buy from online shops?
Answer: Oh, people buy almost everything online these days! I'd say clothing, electronics, and
household items are the most common purchases. Many people also order groceries and food
online, especially since it's convenient and saves time. Besides that, books, cosmetics, and even
furniture are popular choices, mainly because online shopping offers such a wide variety and
convenience, it's hard to resist!
Q. Why do you think online shopping has become so popular nowadays?
Answer: Well, convenience is probably the biggest factor. People love being able to shop from the
comfort of their homes at any time. Also, online shops often offer better prices, frequent discounts,
and a wider selection of products than physical stores. Plus, the ease of comparing products, reading
reviews, and having items delivered right to our doorstep makes online shopping incredibly attractive
to busy people.

Q. What are some possible disadvantages of buying things from online shops?
Answer: Of course, online shopping isn't perfect. A common issue is that products might not match
their descriptions or images like clothes not fitting properly or items arriving damaged. There's also
the risk of fraud or security issues with online payments. Another downside is that delivery can be
delayed or sometimes unreliable, causing frustration. Lastly, returning products can be a hassle and
might take longer than expected, compared to returning items to physical stores.

[The culture of consumerism]


Q. Why do many people today keep buying things which they do not need?
Answer: That's a really interesting question. I'd say advertising and social media play huge roles in
encouraging people to buy impulsively. We're constantly bombarded with messages that link
happiness and success to buying new things. Additionally, shopping can sometimes become an
emotional outlet since people buy things to relieve stress, feel good, or fit in socially, even if they
don't genuinely need these items. Sadly, this often leads to unnecessary consumption and clutter.

Q. Do you believe the benefits of a consumer society outweigh the disadvantages?


Answer: Well, there are certainly some benefits, like economic growth, job creation, and increased
choices for consumers. However, I personally feel the disadvantages, such as environmental damage,
wasteful consumption, and financial stress, often outweigh these positives. A highly consumerist
society can foster materialistic attitudes, causing people to chase temporary satisfaction rather than
lasting happiness. So, I'd say moderation is crucial; balance is key to enjoying benefits without falling
into excessive consumption.

Q. How possible is it to avoid the culture of consumerism?


Answer: Honestly, completely avoiding consumerism can be pretty challenging nowadays because
it's deeply embedded in our culture and daily lives. However, it's definitely possible to reduce its
impact by being more mindful about what we buy, prioritizing quality over quantity, and consciously
resisting impulse purchases. Adopting practices like minimalism, recycling, and supporting
sustainable brands can also help individuals steer clear of excessive consumerism. It's not always
easy, but with effort and awareness, reducing consumerist habits is achievable.

IELTS Speaking Part 3 topic: Universities.

1. Is higher education too expensive in your country?


2. Should all students pay for their university education? Why?
3. What advantages do universities bring to society? Is it the same in your country?
4. Which is more important, research or teaching? Why?
5. How should students spend their summer vacations? How do/did you spend it?
6. What are the advantages of private universities over public universities?
Q. 1: Is higher education too expensive in your country?
Answer: Universities in my country, that are run by the government, offer higher education for free.
The cost of pursuing higher education in such a university is much cheaper than that of private
universities. However, the number of students seeking to enrol in graduation courses is much higher
than the actual number of seats offered by state-run universities and colleges. As a result, many
students mostly from affluent families, get admitted to private universities and pay a hefty tuition
fee.

Q. 2: Should all students pay for their university education? Why?


Answer: I do not think that the university cost should be paid solely by the students and their
guardians. Since the government allocate a budget for the education sector and a major portion of it
goes to higher education and research facilities, state-run universities must offer free education. On
top of that, the government has a responsibility to spend the taxpayers' money on social welfare and
free or cheap education should be a top priority.

Q. 3: What advantages do universities bring to society? Is it the same in your country?


Answer: Universities are the lighthouse of society and they produce enlightened citizens who lead
the country. Universities not only educate the youth and prepare them for their future but also carry
on important research works that benefit society as well as the country. For instance, many
inventions and medicines that we are familiar with were actually the results of university projects
and research. Thus universities serve both the society and the country in numerous ways that have a
direct correlation with the overall development of a nation. I am proud to say that universities in my
country also play the same role.

Q. 4: Which is more important, research or teaching? Why?


Answer: I think that's a tough question to answer. However, my personal opinion is that both are
required. While proper teaching ensures that young students are getting the education they need to
prepare themselves for the future, research works, on the other hand, help solve practical problems
and contribute to the advancement of the country. I also feel that more students, along with the
teachers, should be involved in research work in our universities.

Q. 5: How should students spend their summer vacations? How do/did you spend it?
Answer: I personally feel that long vacations should be spent wisely. Since students have more than
two months during their summer vacations, they should plan prior to the vacation to make the best
out of it. They can travel for one to two weeks, get involved in some sort of paid job to gain some
practical experience, enrol in skill development courses, study the subjects they find challenging and
do some voluntary work for the community they live in.

I usually plan well ahead of the vacation and so far I have travelled extensively, done some part-time
jobs, read many books, visited my grandparents and taken three skill development courses including
a language course during my summer vacations in my college. Next year I am planning to visit Italy
for a couple of weeks, and then afterwards, take a graphic designing course.

Q. 6: What are the advantages of private universities over public universities?


Answer: From my personal experience I can say private universities are more disciplined and update
their curriculum frequently to make the course more useful to the students. The study environment
in a private university is often better as the authority does not allow politics or such activities there.
Many private universities have better labs and research facilities which is an added advantage. Since
they finish the course within the speculated timeframe, they help students avoid session jams and
start their careers early. Harvard, Yale, Stanford and MIT are a few of the world-renowned private
universities which have maintained an excellent academic environment and research works and
show how some private universities could indeed be better than many public universities.

IELTS Speaking Part 3 Topic: Reading books.

1. Do you generally read a lot of books or do you prefer watching TV? Why?
2. What kind of books are considered good reads in your opinion?
3. Do you think that people read nowadays as they did in the past?
4. Do you regard famous writers as good role models?
5. If a movie is based on a book, would you prefer to read the book or to watch the film? Why?
6. How does our reading habit changes as we grow up? Why does it happen?

Q. 1: Do you generally read a lot of books or do you prefer watching TV? Why?
Answer: I prefer reading books over enjoying random programmes on television. However, that does
not mean that I hate watching TV. I just feel that reading is a far better habit than watching TV. Every
book gives us the opportunity to learn something new and the time spent on reading a book is more
constructive. I can't say the same for the TV. We often watch TV to kill time and end up surfing
through channels rather than watching something meaningful.

Q. 2: What kind of books are considered good reads in your opinion?


Answer: I believe books that are suitable for a reader's age and do not contain any hate speech or
offensive materials are a good choice. Generally speaking, if a book can grab readers' interest, make
them think, or help them learn something new then it is a good read. For me, a captivating story and
character development in it are always key indicators for a good read. However, I often enjoy books
simply because they are educative and are based on real events.

Q. 3: Do you think that people read nowadays as they did in the past?
Answer: I believe we always had readers in our society and we still have those who enjoy reading
books more than any other activity. However, the way people read in the past has changed. We now
have digital devices to read books and the Internet to download and read any book we like. These
days the young generation seems more interested in technology than books but as I have said, we
still have a good number of readers who use technology to read books by their favourite writers.
Online platforms also enable us to express ourselves about a writer and his/her books more openly.

Q. 4: Do you regard famous writers as good role models?


Answer: If we consider famous writers in general, they are better role models for us than many
politicians, celebrities and athletes. However, we should follow them through their writings, their
contribution to society and their good deeds, not the few who set bad examples in their personal
life. Writers have always inspired us and they still do in numerous ways. So if we consider famous
writers as our role models, we will have more to gain than to lose.

Q. 5: If a movie is based on a book, would you prefer to read the book or to watch the film? Why?
Answer: I would not mind both reading the book and watching the movie. However, my personal
experience has taught me that books are better than movies in most of the cases. To many, watching
a movie is more exciting, and interesting visual effects of the film make it more appealing. However,
books can touch a reader more profoundly than the movie. While movies can bring whole worlds to
life before our eyes, and make characters into living, books ignite our imagination and take us to a
world unknown to us and the journey allows us to feel every experience of the characters, thus
leaving a lasting impression in our memory. So, I might skip watching a few good films based on
books but would not want to miss those books.

Q. 6: How does our reading habit change as we grow up? Why does it happen?
Answer: As we grow up, we tend to read more, and the reading habit is solely based on our interests
rather than academic requirements. In our childhood, we are so innocent and thus a fairy tale can
take us to a wonderful mythical world. We want to be like the hero or heroine who has magical
powers to destroy evils and restore peace. This is however not the case when we grow up and
become mature. We require more practical ingredients to be challenged and entertained. Thus in our
adulthood, we want to be like a real-life hero who has no mysterious power but has sheer willpower
and determination to face the challenges and change the world or at least change people around
him. Our perspective to view the world around us changes as we grow up and so does our book
choice.

IELTS Speaking Part 3 Topic: Media & news.

1. How do most people get their news in your country?


2. How do you think people will get their news in the future?
3. Do you believe everything you read in the newspapers?
4. How has TV changed people's lives?
5. What do you think of children watching TV?
6. How has social media changed the way we get and share the news?

Q. 1: How do most people get their news in your country?


Answer: Thank you very much for this question. Most adults in my country rely on newspapers and
television channels for news. However, a good number of office-goers also visit online news portals
to find out the news updates and recent events. Young people heavily rely on online newspapers and
their preferred social networking platform to get such news.

Q. 2: How do you think people will get their news in the future?
Answer: I think technology will change the way we get and share news in the future. Most people
will rely on their handheld devices, that are connected to the Internet, as the primary source of news
and information. Traditional newspapers and news channels, on the other hand, will become less
popular in the future because of the time lag between when something happens and when readers
get the chance to read or view them. Since mobile devices can offer instant updates, they will be a
powerful way of getting news updates. Listening to the preferred type of news by using small devices
attached to our ears would become more popular and the type of news we would like to listen to
shall be determined by our activities and interests.

Q. 3: Do you believe everything you read in the newspapers?


Answer: No, I do not believe everything newspapers publish for the public. That's why I read
newspapers that are mainstream and have strong authority and authenticity. Thus I avoid reading
most of the fabricated and fake news which are usually published in less authoritative and unreliable
newspapers. I am also wary of politically biased and sourceless news articles that my friends or their
friends share on Facebook and Twitter.

Sometimes, the process of gathering news is done hastily and irresponsibly, which results in
unreliable information even in the mainstream newspapers. In such cases, I try to verify the news
from other reliable sources. In fact, the forged and made-up news is all around us and without being
watchful and experienced, we can't recognise lies hidden in plain sight.

Q. 4: How has TV changed people's lives?


Answer: If I am asked what is the single most influential invention that has changed people's
lifestyles, my answer would be 'the television'. Television is a mandatory home appliance in all
households in my country. It is a source of education, information, and entertainment for many.
People watch TV to get news and weather updates, learn about foreign cultures, relax and even plan
their next day based on information gained from the TV. They watch TV in the morning, evening and
even before going to bed. TV programmes entertain them, keep them together in the living room
(drawing room) and eliminate many elder's loneliness. TV stars have shaped fashion, TV
advertisements have changed people's purchasing habits and quiz shows have made many young
become more inquisitive. Personally, I believe that television helps to bring families and communities
together.

However, this device has its dark side as well. State TV channels are often the tool for political
propaganda, and people who watch TV too much often suffer from dangerous diseases like diabetes
and obesity.

Q. 5: What do you think of children watching TV?


Answer: I think if children watch educative, entertaining and creative TV programmes then they can
learn from them. However, their parents should monitor what their children watch on TV and for
how long. Watching TV is beneficial for children in some ways as it helps them relax and become
inquisitive. On top of that, some TV programs provide useful academic knowledge to children. But, if
children watch TV all day long, it can harm them both physically and psychologically. Such children
lose their interest in outdoor activities and become addicted to TV and video games.

Q. 6: How has social media changed the way we get and share the news?
Answer: Social media is an excellent tool that connects people and lets them share updates, news
and information with the people they care about. It has made it possible not only to read the news
but also to raise our voices and concerns. Thus it has made a common platform for ordinary citizens
to express themselves and their opinions about the world. Getting and sharing interesting news is
easier than ever before.

However, people's tendency to share news without verifying authenticity has also made it chaotic.
For instance, half of the news found on such social media is either fake or fabricated.

IELTS Speaking Part 3 Topic: Driving a car & Electric cars.

[Discussion Topic: Driving a car]

Q. How interested are young people in your country in learning to drive?


Q. What are the differences between driving in the countryside and driving in the city?
Q. Do you consider most drivers where you live to be good drivers?

[Discussion Topic: Electric cars]

Q. How popular are electric cars in your country?


Q. In what ways could more people be persuaded to buy electric cars?
Q. Do you think all cars will be electric one day?

[Driving a car]
Q. How interested are young people in your country in learning to drive?
Answer: Young people in my country are generally very interested in learning to drive as many of
them are passionate about driving a car or motorbike. Since without a valid driver's licence they are
not legally allowed to drive on the street, they try to get a driver's licence as soon as they come of
age. Driving provides them independence, convenience, and a sense of maturity. For many, obtaining
a driver's licence represents an important milestone toward adulthood, and teenagers are often
eager to start driving as soon as they're legally allowed. Additionally, driving skills enhance
employment opportunities, making young people more motivated to learn.

Q. What are the differences between driving in the countryside and driving in the city?
Answer: Well, in my opinion, driving in the countryside is usually calmer, with less traffic, fewer
pedestrians, and open roads, providing a more relaxed driving experience. In contrast, city driving
tends to be stressful due to congested roads, frequent stops at traffic lights, and navigating around
pedestrians and cyclists. However, rural areas might have narrow or poorly maintained roads, while
cities typically have well-developed infrastructure, though with much heavier traffic.

Q. Do you consider most drivers where you live to be good drivers?


Answer: In general, yes, I believe most drivers in my area are good and responsible. They usually
follow traffic rules, show courtesy towards other drivers, and are mindful of pedestrian safety. Of
course, there are occasional exceptions with reckless or aggressive drivers, but overall, the majority
tend to drive safely and responsibly.

[Electric cars]
Q. How popular are electric cars in your country?
Answer: Electric cars are gaining popularity in my country, though they're not yet widely used
compared to conventional vehicles. Interest is growing steadily because of increased environmental
awareness, lower running costs, and government incentives such as subsidies and tax benefits. Still,
limited infrastructure like charging stations in certain areas makes widespread adoption a bit slower
than expected. However, I believe that electric cars will be more and more popular in the future and
most of the cars that will run on the streets and roads will be electric.

Q. In what ways could more people be persuaded to buy electric cars?


Answer: To persuade more people to buy electric cars, in my opinion, governments and companies
should provide better financial incentives, such as tax reductions, discounts, or subsidies. Expanding
the charging infrastructure and offering more convenient charging stations nationwide would also
help greatly. Lastly, raising public awareness about the environmental benefits and cost savings
associated with electric cars could further encourage people to make the switch.

Q. Do you think all cars will be electric one day?


Answer: Yes, I think that it's highly likely that in the future, all cars will become electric. Given the
increasing urgency to combat climate change and reduce pollution, transitioning to electric vehicles
seems inevitable. Advancements in battery technology, improved vehicle performance, and growing
infrastructure will make electric cars accessible and affordable, eventually replacing traditional fuel-
powered cars completely.
IELTS Speaking Part 3 Topic: The Internet.

1. Do most people have a computer at home in your country? What do most people use it for?
2. Do you think all the information on the internet is true? Why is that?
3. How can people find reliable information on the internet?
4. How has the internet changed the way we live?
5. How has the internet changed the way we work?
6. Do you think the internet is safe for children to use unsupervised? Why?

Q. 1: Do most people have a computer at home in your country? What do most people use it for?
Answer: Well, to answer this question, I should first mention that the ownership of computers is
almost ten times higher in cities than that of villages in my country. Thus most of the families living in
a city own at least one computer except for poor people while almost one in twelve families in rural
areas have a computer or a laptop.

The activities on a computer vary based on the users' age group. For instance, children like to watch
cartoons, draw pictures and play games on a computer while teenagers mostly use the Internet on a
computer or laptop to use their favourite social networking websites, find information to complete
their school assignments and for entertainment purposes. Adults often use a computer to connect to
the internet, check emails, learn to use new software, create presentations, do online shopping and
listen to their favourite music.

Q. 2: Do you think all the information on the internet is true? Why is that?
Answer: I believe without an authentic source and credible publisher, we should be wary of the
information we see or find online. The Internet is an astonishing source of information but fake news
and fabricated information are all around there. Thus, I would not believe everything I see online
except they are from an authoritative source. For instance, if I find a piece of information on a
website like www.bbc.com, from the official government website or from a prominent and
mainstream online newspaper, I would believe it. However, any news found on a social networking
website like Facebook, or from a dubious website should always be verified before believing it to be
true.

Alternative Answer: No, I don’t think all the information on the internet is true. While the internet is
an invaluable resource for knowledge, it is also a platform where misinformation and false claims can
easily spread. This is largely due to the lack of regulation and oversight, allowing anyone to publish
content without necessarily verifying its accuracy. For example, social media platforms often circulate
rumours or biased opinions presented as facts, which can confuse or mislead people. Additionally,
some websites or blogs may promote sensationalised or exaggerated information for the sake of
attracting views, often without credible sources to back up their claims. Therefore, it is essential for
individuals to critically evaluate the sources of information they encounter online and rely on
reputable, fact-checked websites to ensure they are accessing accurate and trustworthy content.

Q. 3: How can people find reliable information on the internet?


Answer: People have to rely on credible websites with many years of reputation, mainstream online
newspapers that are famous, government websites and fact-finding sources to get authentic
information. Anything found on social networking platforms should always be verified before sharing
as these are often targeted by spammers and fake news producers.
Google Scholar is an excellent place to find academic papers which are real and to be sure if an
image is fake or real someone can take advantage of the Google image search feature. The popular
encyclopedia offers real information and they could be trusted. Another excellent way to filter away
the bogus news is to look for the author and publisher's credentials. Lastly, people should use their
common sense. If an offer is too good to be true or if a story has so many unbelievable facts, people
should check further to find out more about it.

Q. 4: How has the internet changed the way we live?


Answer: Honestly speaking, the Internet has revolutionised the way we live. Many of us can't believe
how the people in the pre-internet era managed to do all their work at home or at the office! The
Internet allows us to work more proficiently at home, work more productively at the office and let us
communicate with anyone from a far distance of the world. We make video calls to be in touch with
our loved ones, do online shopping, participate in meetings in another city and even drive our cars
with the help of the Internet. With this technology, we have amazing access to information and they
are just a few mouse clicks away. These days we even do banking online and the need to travel long
distances for ordinary tasks is no longer required. Thus the present era with the spectacular power
and blessings of the Internet is truly remarkable.

However, there is a downside to this fabulous technology. Our overreliance on the internet has
made us home-centric and we prefer to stay at home rather than going outside and socialising. This
is detrimental to our social and personal lives that we often fail to realise.

Q. 5: How has the internet changed the way we work?


Answer: The Internet has dramatically changed the way we work as well. A large number of people
work from home nowadays, and the Internet has created thousands of gig-based jobs for the new
generation. The Internet allows us to save a huge amount of data online and they are easily
accessible at a later date. We use emails, video conferencing, project management software and
blogs and these are essentials for an office these days. Without the Internet, we would still have to
keep track of every calculation with the help of papers and pens and the mistakes would have been
more frequent. Employees in most modern offices have computers to help them finish a task and
learn new things.

Q. 6: Do you think the internet is safe for children to use unsupervised? Why?
Answer: I believe, children should not be allowed to use the Internet without some sort of
supervision from parents. The Internet is a great source of information and entertainment but it also
contains harmful and age-restricted content that could psychologically damage children. Moreover,
predators often search for children to harm them. Thus parents should either enforce rigid parental
controls on the browser and network level which would monitor the online activities of children and
filter out bad content or should be present physically when their children use the Internet. It is not to
take away children's freedom but for their safety.

IELTS Speaking Part 3 Topic: The beauty industry & Beauty and culture.

[Discussion topic: The beauty industry]


Q. Do you agree that most beauty products are a waste of money?
Q. How does the beauty industry advertise its products so successfully?
Q. What do you think of the view that beauty products should not be advertised to children?

[Discussion topic: Beauty and culture]

Q. Why do many people equate youth with beauty?


Q. Do you think that being beautiful could affect a person's success in life?
Q. Why might society's ideas about beauty change over time?

[The beauty industry]


Q. Do you agree that most beauty products are a waste of money?
Answer: Well, I wouldn't say most beauty products are entirely a waste of money because many
genuinely offer benefits, such as boosting self-confidence, improving skin health, or providing
relaxation and self-care. However, there's definitely a tendency in the industry to exaggerate claims,
leading consumers to buy products they don't really need or that deliver minimal results. People
often spend significant amounts on products promising quick fixes or drastic transformations that
rarely occur. In my opinion, it depends greatly on the individual product, how effectively it's used,
and whether the person's expectations align realistically with what the product can actually achieve.

Q. How does the beauty industry advertise its products so successfully?


Answer: The beauty industry excels in advertising primarily through appealing visuals, emotional
connections, and leveraging popular celebrities or influencers. Ads typically focus on achieving ideals
of beauty and youth, using carefully crafted images and persuasive language to attract consumers.
Social media platforms have also become powerful advertising channels, allowing brands to directly
interact with their audience, personalize their messages, and quickly respond to trends. Additionally,
clever marketing strategies, like limited-time offers and promotions, encourage consumers to make
impulsive purchases. Altogether, these tactics successfully create strong consumer demand and
brand loyalty.

Q. What do you think of the view that beauty products should not be advertised to children?
Answer: I strongly agree with this viewpoint because children are particularly impressionable and
vulnerable to marketing influences. When beauty products are advertised to children, it reinforces
unrealistic beauty standards and may negatively affect their self-esteem and body image. Young
people should focus more on developing self-confidence, personal values, and character rather than
appearance at such an early stage. Advertising beauty products to children can encourage
unnecessary worries about their looks, potentially leading to anxiety or unhealthy habits. Therefore, I
believe advertisements targeting children should promote healthy lifestyles and positive self-image
instead of beauty ideals.

[Beauty and culture]


Q. Why do many people equate youth with beauty?
Answer: Many people associate youth with beauty primarily due to societal standards and media
representation. Youth is often portrayed as a period of vitality, health, and attractiveness, featuring
prominently in movies, advertisements, and magazines. This continuous exposure shapes
perceptions, making people believe youthfulness signifies beauty. Additionally, biologically, youthful
appearances are associated with health and reproductive fitness, reinforcing the idea that young
people are more physically attractive. Such deeply ingrained ideas influence perceptions and often
lead individuals to strive to maintain a youthful appearance as long as possible.
Q. Do you think that being beautiful could affect a person's success in life?
Answer: Yes, I think beauty can significantly impact a person's success, though ideally, it shouldn't be
the primary factor. Studies have shown that attractive people often have advantages, including better
first impressions, increased confidence, and more opportunities in areas such as employment and
social situations. This phenomenon, often called the "halo effect," occurs because society tends to
subconsciously associate physical attractiveness with positive attributes like intelligence and
competence. However, it's important to emphasize that qualities like talent, determination, and
character are crucial and have a more lasting impact on long-term success and personal fulfillment.

Q. Why might society's ideas about beauty change over time?


Answer: Society's ideas about beauty evolve due to numerous factors, including cultural shifts,
media influence, historical events, and globalization. As cultures become more interconnected,
beauty standards tend to diversify and incorporate features from different backgrounds. Historical
events can shift priorities and values, affecting perceptions of what is considered attractive. For
example, during certain historical periods, fuller figures were seen as symbols of prosperity, while in
others, slimness was idealized. Moreover, social movements and increased awareness about
diversity and body positivity have recently contributed to broader and more inclusive standards of
beauty. Thus, society's concept of beauty remains dynamic, continually shaped by social and cultural
transformations.

IELTS Speaking Part 3 Topic: Museums and art galleries & The holiday industry.

[Discussion topic: Museums and art galleries]

Q. What are the most popular museums and art galleries in ... (where you live)?
Q. Do you believe that all museums and art galleries should be free?
Q. What kinds of things make a museum or art gallery an interesting place to visit?

[Discussion topic: The holiday industry]

Q. Why, do you think, do some people book package holidays rather than travelling independently?
Q. Would you say that large numbers of tourists cause problems for local people?
Q. What sort of impact can large holiday resorts have on the environment?

[Museums and art galleries]


Q. What are the most popular museums and art galleries in ... (where you live)?
Answer: In my city, some of the most popular museums and art galleries include the National
Museum, known for its extensive historical collections and exhibits showcasing local culture. There's
also the Modern Art Gallery, which is famous for contemporary artworks from local and international
artists. Another highly visited place is the Science and Technology Museum, popular among families
and young people due to its interactive and educational exhibits. These institutions attract both
tourists and locals because they offer engaging experiences and rich insights into history, culture, and
art.

Q. Do you believe that all museums and art galleries should be free?
Answer: Yes, I strongly believe that museums and art galleries should be freely accessible to
everyone. Free entry ensures broader public access to culture, history, and art, promoting
educational opportunities and cultural enrichment regardless of someone's financial background. It
encourages frequent visits and makes culture more inclusive. However, I do recognize that these
institutions require funding for upkeep and expansion, so they might rely on government funding,
donations, or optional contributions from visitors who can afford them. Ultimately, the key goal
should be making art and cultural heritage accessible to as many people as possible.

Q. What kinds of things make a museum or art gallery an interesting place to visit?
Answer: I think that a museum or art gallery becomes interesting when it offers diverse, engaging,
and well-curated collections that capture visitors' imaginations. Interactive exhibits, clear and
informative descriptions, multimedia presentations, and audio guides can significantly enhance the
experience, making visits enjoyable and educational. Regularly updated special exhibitions,
workshops, or events also help attract repeat visitors. Additionally, good lighting, thoughtful display
arrangements, comfortable environments, and friendly staff greatly contribute to making museums
and galleries welcoming and appealing places for visitors of all ages and backgrounds.

[The holiday industry]


Q. Why, do you think, do some people book package holidays rather than travelling
independently?
Answer: I presume, people often choose package holidays because they're convenient, stress-free,
and usually cost-effective. Package tours typically include accommodation, meals, transportation,
and sightseeing, so travellers don't have to worry about individual arrangements or potential issues
arising during their trip. They are particularly popular among families, elderly travellers, or first-time
travellers who prefer safety, comfort, and assurance provided by organized services. Additionally,
package holidays often include tour guides who offer insights and local knowledge, enhancing the
overall travel experience for visitors unfamiliar with the destination.

Q. Would you say that large numbers of tourists cause problems for local people?
Answer: Yes, I do believe that large numbers of tourists can cause several issues for local
communities. For example, overcrowding in popular tourist spots can lead to traffic congestion,
higher prices, and strain on local infrastructure and resources. It can also negatively impact residents'
daily lives, making basic tasks like shopping or commuting more challenging. Moreover, in some
cases, excessive tourism might dilute local culture and traditions, turning authentic experiences into
commercialized activities. While tourism can undoubtedly boost the local economy, managing tourist
numbers responsibly is essential to ensure a harmonious coexistence between tourists and local
residents.

Q. What sort of impact can large holiday resorts have on the environment?
Answer: I tend to believe that large holiday resorts can significantly impact the environment in
various ways. Construction often leads to deforestation, habitat destruction, and disruption to local
wildlife. These resorts frequently consume considerable amounts of water and energy, putting
additional pressure on local resources. Waste management can also become problematic, with
increased generation of garbage, sewage, and pollution. Moreover, popular tourist beaches or
natural sites near resorts can suffer from erosion and degradation due to increased foot traffic and
activities. I would also like to mention that to minimize these environmental impacts, it’s crucial for
resorts to implement sustainable practices such as recycling, energy-efficient operations, water
conservation, and responsible tourism guidelines.

IELTS Speaking Part 3 Topic: Visiting cities on holiday & The growth of cities.
[Discussion topic: Visiting cities on holiday]

Q. What are the most interesting things to do while visiting cities on holiday?
Q. Why can it be expensive to visit cities on holiday?
Q. Do you think it is better to visit cities alone or in a group with friends?

[Discussion topic: The growth of cities]

Q. Why have cities increased in size in recent years?


Q. What are the challenges created by ever-growing cities?
Q. In what ways do you think cities of the future will be different to cities today?

[Visiting cities on holiday]


Q. What are the most interesting things to do while visiting cities on holiday?
Answer: Well, I’d say there's a whole host of things to explore in cities. For starters, visiting
museums, art galleries, and historical landmarks can give fascinating insights into the local culture
and history. Trying local cuisine in famous restaurants or street food markets is another exciting
activity that can really enhance the experience. Personally, I think exploring vibrant local markets,
attending festivals or cultural performances, and simply wandering around the city's unique
neighbourhoods are fantastic ways to immerse oneself in city life. Overall, there's certainly no
shortage of engaging and enjoyable activities when visiting cities on holiday.

Q. Why can it be expensive to visit cities on holiday?


Answer: I suppose one main reason is that accommodation in cities, particularly major tourist
destinations, can be very pricey. Hotels and restaurants often charge premium rates, especially
during peak travel seasons. Additionally, entrance fees for popular attractions, transport costs, and
shopping expenses can quickly add up, making city trips quite costly. Also, cities often encourage
visitors to indulge in experiences like shows, fine dining, or luxury shopping, which naturally
contributes to higher spending compared to rural or suburban areas. So, while city holidays are
incredibly attractive, they can definitely hit your wallet harder than other destinations.

Q. Do you think it is better to visit cities alone or in a group with friends?


Answer: Honestly, both have their advantages. Visiting cities alone allows a person greater freedom,
flexibility, and independence. They can explore exactly what they want, at their own pace, and make
spontaneous decisions without needing to compromise. On the other hand, travelling in a group with
friends can make the experience more enjoyable and memorable because it provides
companionship, shared experiences, and a sense of safety. Personally, I think the choice depends
entirely on the individual's personality and preferences; some people prefer solo adventures, while
others find group travel far more fulfilling.

[The growth of cities]


Q. Why have cities increased in size in recent years?
Answer: Well, there's no denying that cities have expanded significantly due to several factors.
Primarily, economic opportunities attract people from rural areas and smaller towns, leading to
urbanisation. Cities typically offer better job prospects, educational facilities, healthcare services, and
lifestyle amenities, drawing many individuals seeking an improved quality of life. Additionally,
population growth naturally results in urban expansion as cities develop new residential areas,
industrial zones, and business districts to accommodate the increasing numbers. Thus, economic,
social, and demographic factors collectively drive the growth and expansion of modern cities.
Q. What are the challenges created by ever-growing cities?
Answer: The rapid growth of cities undoubtedly creates multiple challenges. First and foremost,
there's the issue of traffic congestion and pollution, leading to environmental and health concerns.
Additionally, overcrowding can strain public services like hospitals, schools, and transportation
networks. Housing shortages and rising living costs are also significant issues in expanding cities,
making affordability difficult for many residents. Moreover, rapid urbanisation often leads to social
problems like increased crime rates and reduced community cohesion. Overall, these challenges
require careful urban planning and effective governance to ensure sustainable city growth and
maintain residents' quality of life.

Q. In what ways do you think cities of the future will be different to cities today?
Answer: In my opinion, future cities will be significantly smarter and more sustainable than today’s
cities. They will likely incorporate advanced technology and renewable energy sources, leading to
more efficient public transport systems and reduced environmental impact. Buildings might feature
eco-friendly designs and smart technologies to save energy and water. I also think cities will become
more pedestrian-friendly, with greater emphasis on green spaces and walkability to enhance
residents' quality of life. Additionally, improved urban planning and management, driven by data
analytics and artificial intelligence, might create safer, cleaner, and more inclusive urban
environments for everyone.

IELTS Speaking Part 3 Topic: Staying in hotels & Working in a hotel.

[Discussion topic: Staying in hotels]

Q. What things are important when people are choosing a hotel?


Q. Why do some people not like staying in hotels?
Q. Do you think staying in a luxury hotel is a waste of money?

[Discussion topic: Working in a hotel]

Q. Do you think hotel work is a good career for life?


Q. How does working in a big hotel compare with working in a small hotel?
Q. What skills are needed to be a successful hotel manager?

[Staying in hotels]
Q. What things are important when people are choosing a hotel?
Answer: Well, I'd say location is usually a big factor; people often prefer hotels close to tourist
attractions, restaurants, or transportation hubs. Cleanliness and comfort are also absolutely essential
as no one likes a dirty or uncomfortable room. Good service and friendly staff can significantly
improve a stay, and of course, price plays a major role since everyone wants value for money. Finally,
facilities like Wi-Fi, parking, breakfast, or a swimming pool can make a big difference depending on
individual preferences and needs.

Q. Why do some people not like staying in hotels?


Answer: That's an interesting question. I think some people prefer more personal, home-like
environments, which hotels often lack. Hotels can sometimes feel impersonal or crowded, especially
larger ones. Others may find hotels noisy or uncomfortable due to unfamiliar beds or limited privacy.
Additionally, cost can be a factor—hotels, particularly nice ones, can be expensive, and some people
prefer more budget-friendly options like renting apartments or staying with friends and family.

Q. Do you think staying in a luxury hotel is a waste of money?


Answer: Not necessarily. Honestly, it depends on the person's priorities and budget. Luxury hotels
provide exceptional comfort, high-quality service, and unique experiences that can create lasting
memories, making the extra cost worth it for special occasions or vacations. However, for someone
who values exploring and spending most of their time outside the hotel, paying extra for luxury
might seem unnecessary. It's really about personal preference and how much someone values that
luxury experience.

[Working in a hotel]
Q. Do you think hotel work is a good career for life?
Answer: I'd say yes, it can be, especially for those passionate about hospitality and customer service.
Working in hotels can be rewarding because you meet new people from all over the world and
develop valuable skills like communication, management, and problem-solving. It also offers good
opportunities for career advancement. However, it often involves long hours, working weekends, and
managing stressful situations, so it's probably best suited to those who genuinely enjoy interacting
with people and thrive in dynamic environments.

Q. How does working in a big hotel compare with working in a small hotel?
Answer: That's a good point to consider. Working in a big hotel usually means more structured roles,
formal training, and clear career progression opportunities. There might be more variety and
benefits, but the environment can also feel impersonal due to its scale. In contrast, small hotels often
offer a more relaxed, family-like atmosphere with closer relationships among staff and guests.
Employees might have more varied responsibilities and opportunities to be flexible, but they may
have fewer formal career advancement opportunities. Each has its pros and cons, depending on your
personality and career goals.

Q. What skills are needed to be a successful hotel manager?


Answer: Oh, several skills are vital! First, strong leadership and communication skills are essential
since managers deal with staff and guests daily. Problem-solving and quick decision-making abilities
are also crucial, as unexpected issues often arise. Moreover, good organizational and time-
management skills help keep things running smoothly. Having cultural awareness and a friendly,
approachable personality can also greatly enhance guest satisfaction. In short, a successful hotel
manager needs a balanced mix of practical, interpersonal, and management skills.

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Speaking Part 3 - Details discussion (Part 2)

Last Updated: Monday, 02 June 2025 00:26

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IELTS Speaking Part 3 topics:

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More Resource: Useful Expressions to use in IELTS Speaking part 3

Topics: 1. Technology and housework & Technology in the workplace. 2. Family occasions &
Everyday life in families. 3. Art. 4. Eating habits. 5. Friends at school & Making new friends. 6.
Transport. 7. Neighbours & Facilities in cities. 8. Famous people. 9. Holidays. 10. Public
monuments & Architecture. 11. Technology. 12. Arriving late & Managing study time. 13. Decision
making. 14. Different kinds of tourist attractions & The importance of international tourism.
15. Discussing problems with others & Communication skills at work.

IELTS Speaking Part 3 topic: Technology and housework & Technology in the workplace.

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[Discussion topic: Technology and housework]

1. What kinds of machines are used for housework in modern homes in your country?
2. How have these machines benefited people? Are there any negative effects of using them?
3. Do you think all new homes will be equipped with household machines in the future? Why?

[Discussion topic: Technology in the workplace]

4. What kinds of equipment do most workers need to use in offices today?


5. How have developments in technology affected employment in your country?
6. Some people think that technology has brought more stress than benefits to employed people
nowadays. Would you agree or disagree? Why?

[Discussion topic: Technology and housework]

Q. 1. What kinds of machines are used for housework in modern homes in your country?
Answer: Different kinds of home appliances and machines are some of the main features of all
modern homes today, and the modern homes in my country are no exception either. These machines
may include refrigerators, microwave ovens, vacuum cleaners, dishwashers, washing machines, and
ironing machines. Electric appliances like electric kettles, induction stoves, blenders and coffee
makers are also very common in many, many modern homes in my country. To deal with extreme
heat and extreme cold, many modern homes in my country also use Air conditioners, room heaters,
and geysers (water heaters).

Q. 2. How have these machines benefited people? Are there any negative effects of using them?
Answer: Machines have benefited people in so many ways that living without them in today’s world
is next to impossible. One of these benefits is that it has increased productivity and efficiency
drastically. Besides, it helps put much less strain on humans by minimizing human errors. Another
benefit is that products become cheaper for consumers since machines help to produce on a very
large scale.
But, machines have some negative effects too. Too much dependency on machines is making people
too lazy. Besides, machines are also causing environmental degradation by releasing toxic and
harmful products into the air and water.

Q. 3. Do you think all new homes will be equipped with household machines in the future? Why?
Answer: It would actually be hard to predict the preferences and needs of future homeowners, but
given the income and economic disparity around the world today, it would be fair to assume that not
all new homes will be equipped with household machines in the future. Besides, many people
around the world are now slowly but surely beginning to understand the adverse effects of too much
dependency on machines and technology. So, the chances are that even if many people have the
means and ability to equip their homes with household machines in future, they will probably hold
themselves back from using them for health and environmental reasons.

[Discussion topic: Technology in the workplace]

Q. 4. What kinds of equipment do most workers need to use in offices today?


Answer: Office workers, like most of us, also want to make their lives easy today by using all kinds of
office equipment to get their jobs done quickly and accurately. Such office equipment can be divided
into two different kinds: one is electronic and the other type is non-electronic. Some of the
electronic office equipment (or “machine” as some might also call them) today may include
computers, laptops, computer monitors, printers, copiers, scanners, and pen drive/flash memory
drives. Non-electronic equipment may include telephones/PBX systems, filing cabinets, pens,
staplers, and calculators.

Q. 5. How have developments in technology affected employment in your country?


Answer: The developments in technology have affected all kinds of employment in my country in a
mostly positive manner. For example, people can search for their preferred jobs from online job
portals, apply online and even work from home once hired. They can use AI technology to finish
more work in a short span of time. Moreover, workers in my country can communicate with their
fellow workers in seconds, thanks to the advancement in communication technologies. Another
example is that workers can prepare any kind of office document today in minutes, which would have
taken them hours probably, if not days, before using the technology. Technology hasn’t only helped
in productivity and efficiency at the workplace, but it also has sustained that increase.

However, technology has affected employment a bit negatively too as it has forced some of the low-
skilled labour forces out of their jobs. The recent rise and improvement in Artificial Intelligence
technology is also a concern as it has the potential to replace many white-collar employees.

Q. 6. Some people think that technology has brought more stress than benefits to employed
people nowadays. Would you agree or disagree? Why?
Answer: If we were to count the numerous benefits of the technology, we would probably have to
disagree with what the question is trying to insinuate. In fact, it wouldn’t be an exaggeration to
suggest that technology today has actually helped the workers to survive, and survive long and well,
with the others. For example, with the help of technology, they can finish their work rather quickly so
that they can relax a bit more and use that extra time to spend with their family and loved ones. But
that’s just one example. How about the example of a pilot finding his/her way, with the help of
advanced technology, in very adverse weather conditions to land his/her aeroplane safely? The
negative aspects of technology pertain to our overreliance on technology which we can easily adjust.
But the blessings that technology has brought for us simply could not be replaced with anything else.
IELTS Speaking Part 3 Topic: Family occasions & Everyday life in families.

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[Discussion topic: Family occasions]

Q. When do families celebrate together in your country?


Q. How often do all the generations in a family come together in your country?
Q. Why is it that some people might not enjoy attending family occasions?

[Discussion topic: Everyday life in families]


Q. Do you think it is a good thing for parents to help their children with schoolwork?
Q. How important do you think it is for families to eat together at least once a day?
Q. Do you believe that everyone in a family should share household tasks?

[Discussion topic: Family occasions]

Q. When do families celebrate together in your country?


Answer: In my country, families typically celebrate together during festivals, important cultural
events, birthdays, weddings, and anniversaries. Major festivals such as Diwali, Eid, Christmas, and
New Year are occasions when family members gather to share meals, exchange gifts, and enjoy
quality time together. These celebrations are opportunities to strengthen family bonds, preserve
traditions, and reconnect with relatives who live far away. Apart from festivals, families also unite to
celebrate personal milestones like graduation ceremonies, engagements, and anniversaries,
emphasizing the value of family support and togetherness in our culture.

Q. How often do all the generations in a family come together in your country?
Answer: Traditionally, families in my country regularly bring together multiple generations, especially
during major festivals, holidays, or special occasions like weddings and birthdays. Usually, these
larger family gatherings occur a few times a year, depending on the geographical proximity of family
members. Families living closer might meet more frequently, while those spread across different
cities or countries may gather less often. Nevertheless, these multi-generational gatherings, in my
view, remain important events, providing opportunities for elders and youngsters to interact,
exchange experiences, and preserve family traditions and heritage.

Q. Why is it that some people might not enjoy attending family occasions?
Answer: Well, some people might not enjoy family occasions for various reasons, including personal
differences, unresolved conflicts, or generational gaps. Family gatherings sometimes involve
comparisons or pressures related to careers, marriage, or academic success, making certain
individuals feel uncomfortable or anxious. Additionally, introverted or socially reserved people may
find large gatherings stressful or overwhelming. Another common reason is that some people may
disagree with family traditions, values, or expectations, causing them to feel out of place or unwilling
to participate. Hence, enjoyment of family occasions can greatly depend on individual personality,
relationships, and past experiences.

[Discussion topic: Everyday life in families]


Q. Do you think it is a good thing for parents to help their children with schoolwork?
Answer: Yes, I think it’s beneficial for parents to help their children with schoolwork because it
strengthens their relationship, shows parental involvement and interest in their child's education,
and can significantly boost the child’s academic performance and confidence. When parents help
with schoolwork, they also get a better understanding of their child's academic strengths and
weaknesses, allowing them to provide targeted support. However, it's crucial that parents offer
guidance without completely taking over, so children still learn independence and problem-solving
skills, developing a healthy balance of support and autonomy.

Q. How important do you think it is for families to eat together at least once a day?
Answer: I believe it’s very important for families to eat together at least once a day. Regular shared
meals allow family members to communicate openly, strengthen their bonds, and stay involved in
each other's lives. Eating together also provides a sense of routine, stability, and emotional security,
especially for children and adolescents. It encourages healthier eating habits, as home-cooked family
meals tend to be more nutritious compared to individually eaten fast food or takeout. Moreover,
dining together frequently creates memories, reinforces family values, and helps establish a positive
family environment.

Q. Do you believe that everyone in a family should share household tasks?


Answer: Absolutely, I believe sharing household tasks among all family members fosters
responsibility, teamwork, and mutual respect. Distributing chores fairly prevents any single family
member from feeling overwhelmed or unfairly burdened. It also helps children learn important life
skills and teaches them cooperation, time management, and accountability from an early age.
Moreover, shared responsibilities ensure equality and harmony within the family, allowing each
individual to contribute meaningfully to their home's smooth functioning. This approach creates a
supportive and balanced family atmosphere where every person feels valued and appreciated.

IELTS Speaking Part 3 topic: Art.

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1. What, in your opinion, is the general purpose of art? Why do people enjoy art?
2. Do you think that art is as important as academic subjects when it comes to educating children?
3. What are the advantages and disadvantages of art education?
4. Why do you think some people enjoy looking at paintings and sculptures and others do not?
5. What are the advantages and disadvantages of being an artist?
6. Do you think that some people are naturally better artists than others?

Q. 1. What, in your opinion is the general purpose of art? Why do people enjoy art?
Answer: We, humans, are “unique” in our existence and experience. Therefore, it is only natural that
we have our needs and expectations that are unique as well. But among those unique needs and
expectations, that separate us from animals, enjoying art seems to be something that makes us
“truly” unique as humans.

So, what is the general purpose of art? Well, the answer is that art helps us to look at ourselves a
little “closer” in a different light by explaining our desires and expectations in more detail which
otherwise wouldn’t be possible. With the help of art, we are able to communicate our social,
political, cultural and spiritual ideas in a much more organized manner so that we feel “challenged”
to rethink over the issues and the subjects that are affecting us and our surroundings on a daily basis.

We enjoy art because it stimulates our hearts and minds to appreciate our lives in a more positive
light. We enjoy art also because it makes us feel “different” by combining our “unusual motifs” that
weave their way into our “subconscious” (or the “hidden” us) and alter our mood so that we feel free
to travel into a different realm.

Q. 2. Do you think that art is as important as academic subjects when it comes to educating
children?
Answer: Pablo Picasso once said, “Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist
once he grows up”. Therefore, offering children the much-needed space to create, explore and
express themselves through art is absolutely important so that a holistic approach to education can
be ensured. However, the purpose of art as an academic subject is not, and should not be, taught
just to produce some “world-class artists”, but to provide a means of exploring feelings and
experiences and expressing them beautifully which “words”, that we use on a regular basis, can’t do
alone. This is something that every child can experience and benefit from. In other words, the
children should be able to find the true value of “art” in the process itself as well, not only in the
“end product”.

Q. 3. What are the advantages and disadvantages of art education?


Answer: There are a number of advantages of art education. In fact, many studies suggest that art
education has many social and academic benefits to students as it promotes self-directed learning
and sharpens creative problem-solving skills and critical thinking. The arts provide challenges for
learners at all levels by connecting students with their own culture as well as with the rest of the
world. Studies also suggest that integrating art education with other disciplines helps reach the
students who otherwise wouldn’t feel “engaged” and interested in class work.

However, there are some disadvantages to art education as well. Learning art can be time-consuming
and sometimes can take “decades” to succeed in the “business” of art. Another major disadvantage
of art is that people, in general, don’t exactly understand the idea of “art”, and therefore, don’t
exactly learn to “appreciate” art, whether it is drama, painting, or music, which can be really
depressing and de-motivating for the aspiring artists.

Q. 4. Why do you think some people enjoy looking at paintings and sculptures and others do not?
Answer: The fact, that some people enjoy looking at paintings and sculptures while others don’t, can
be attributed primarily, in my opinion, to how much “art education” one has received. Besides, this is
also an issue of “sensibility” and how emotionally we get triggered by certain artworks. In fact, there
is a theory which explains that because colours, shapes, sounds and thoughts are all waves form, and
the more we are sensitive to these kinds of waves, the better we can understand an emotional
message, considering that a piece of painting or sculpture essentially is an expression of an emotion,
or transmit it. Besides, another “theory” suggests that most “visually intelligent” people love art
while people who cannot concentrate on a single detail for more than 10 seconds cannot enjoy art.

Q. 5. What are the advantages and disadvantages of being an artist?


Answer: On a metaphysical level, an advantage of being an artist is that it offers artists heightened
sensitivity to their surroundings and helps them to nurture it with a childlike playfulness towards
experiences throughout their entire life by giving them the satisfaction of creating something
“beautiful and special”. But on a practical level, being an artist allows one to become his or her own
“boss” without having to worry about ‘satisfying’ others.
However, one of the major disadvantages of being an artist is that he/she is not financially solvent
most of the time, and he/she has to rely on some other sources of income to survive. And, as a
result, an artist has no or a very limited social life. Another disadvantage of being an artist is most
people don’t take “art” as an actual “profession” which can be equally demoralizing and frustrating
for a person with a sense of “self-respect”.

Q. 6. Do you think that some people are naturally better artists than others?
Answer: Yes, I do think that some people are naturally better artists than others, just like somebody
is better in science and mathematics academically, primarily because of their genetic structure and
disposition towards “creativity”. In fact, it is my opinion that it is the “genetic disposition” of some
children who spend much of their time in their childhood engaging in creative activity, whether it is
drawing or singing, or whatever that they enjoy, in order to develop their skills from the early years
of their lives in the process of play.

Of course, some people would choose to argue that it is their “passion” that drives them to become
“better” artists. But, even if I agree with them to some extent just for the “sake of debate”, I would
still argue that if it is not for their “natural inclination or disposition”, they wouldn’t be able to turn
themselves into some “better” artists.

IELTS Speaking Part 3 topic: Eating habits.

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1. Tell me about the types of food that people eat in your country.
2. How are the eating habits now in your country different from eating habits in the past?
3. How healthy is your country’s food?
4. Why do you think different cultures have different table manners?
5. How may eating habits change in the coming decades?
6. What one aspect of a foreign tradition do you like about their eating habits? Why?

Q. 1. Tell me about the types of food that people eat in your country.
Answer: I guess that it is fair to say we all love to eat, but what we eat largely depends on where we
live, and what kinds of foods are available there to consume. For example, where I live, our main
foods are steam rice and curries- curries that are made with vegetables, meats and fish by mixing
them with varieties of spices in proper measures. We also eat a lot of “bread” in combination with
curries or some sweets that we like.

Of course, the foods I just mentioned above are regular day foods for regular occasions. When there
is a special occasion, we cook foods like “chicken biriyani” or “mutton biriyani” by mixing a certain
kind of long-grain rice, such as basmati with a great aromatic flavour, with meats of our choice while
adding a mixture of freshly ground spices in it in order to make the dish even more delicious. Then,
there are of course fast foods which we also enjoy eating on a limited scale.

Alternative Answer: Canada is quite multicultural, so the types of food we eat are very diverse. You’ll
find everything from traditional dishes like poutine, butter tarts, and maple-glazed salmon to
international foods like sushi, curries, and pasta. Because of immigration, cuisines from around the
world have become part of everyday life. Many Canadians enjoy trying different types of food, and
it’s not uncommon to have Thai for lunch and Italian for dinner. There’s also a growing interest in
plant-based and organic options.

Q. 2. How are the eating habits now in your country different from eating habits in the past?
Answer: Traditionally, in the past, people in my country relied heavily on home-cooked food, such as
steam rice, curry and bread along with local fruits and vegetables. But, in the last couple of decades,
we have seen that some “not-so” traditional food items (of course, in the context of my country’s
food habits) such as pasta, pizza, French fries, burgers and sandwiches, mostly cooked and served at
restaurants and fast food places, have also made their ways into the menu of our regular foods. As a
result, we are becoming more and more “reliant”, especially in the big cities, on fast food instead of
home-cooked food which has ruled our appetite for hundreds of years. We are even ordering for
“home delivery” which was almost impossible to imagine even a decade ago!

Alternative Answer: In the past, meals in Canada were more traditional and home-cooked, with a
focus on meat, potatoes, and vegetables. People used to sit down for dinner together more often.
These days, lifestyles are busier, so many people rely on takeout, meal kits, or quick options. Also,
dietary preferences have changed— there’s more awareness about health, and more people are
reducing meat or switching to gluten-free or dairy-free diets. Fast food is still popular, but there’s a
noticeable shift toward healthier and more balanced meals.

Q. 3. How healthy is your country’s food?


Answer: There are some people in the world who eat food “purely” because of their nutritional
values while there are others who choose to eat their food primarily because of their “awesome
taste” and then for their nutritional values secondarily. For better or worse, we fall into the category
of “food lovers” we eat foods primarily because of their “awesome taste”, but luckily the type of
foods, which we choose to consume in our country, are not any lesser healthy.

In fact, the only reason, for which I would say that our food is not always as “healthy” as we would
prefer them to be, is that people in my country, in general, like to eat a bit too many spices in their
foods purely because of “additional taste and flavour”. But, other than that, I am pretty confident
that the food in my country is pretty healthy because we boil them and cook them properly.

Alternative Answer: I’d say it depends. Canada offers plenty of healthy food options: fresh fruits and
vegetables, whole grains, and clean sources of protein are widely available. But at the same time, we
also have easy access to processed and fast foods, which aren’t as healthy. It really comes down to
personal choices. That said, the government promotes healthy eating through things like Canada’s
Food Guide, and many people are becoming more health-conscious, especially after the pandemic.

Q. 4. Why do you think different cultures have different table manners?


Answer: People from different parts of the world with different cultures choose to eat different kinds
of food, and therefore, it is only natural that their table manners would be different. For Example,
the people in China, Japan and much of East Asia rely heavily on wooden or bamboo-made
chopsticks to eat their food, especially rice. And they chose chopsticks because of Confucius who
believed that sharp utensils like knives would remind eaters of the gruesome way the meat finally
made its way into the bowl.

Chopsticks, on the other hand, had dull ends, thus sparing their users from images of the
slaughterhouse. But, the very knives, which got rejected by the people in East Asia on the ground it
would remind the “gruesome” image of the slaughterhouse, became the symbol of “aristocracy” at
the dinner table in medieval Europe probably because they were and still are used to eating meats
and fishes that are usually cut into rather “large pieces” instead of small ones.

In the same way, people in the Arab world, including Iran, and some parts of Africa like to eat by
making themselves comfortable on the floors, while eating at home, in order to uphold one of the
many traditions of Prophet Mohammad (peace be upon Him). This “sitting habit” is practised also
because people would feel that their stomach is getting full by eating much less than they would
normally like to eat, which is actually in a way healthier than eating at a table.

Alternative Answer: I think table manners reflect a culture’s history, values, and social norms. For
example, in some cultures, eating with your hands is completely normal, while in others, it might be
considered impolite. In Canada, we generally follow Western-style etiquette with knives and forks,
but people are also open-minded and respectful of other customs. I believe these differences come
from how people view food - not just as nourishment, but as a part of social and family life.

Q. 5. How may eating habits change in the coming decades?


Answer: I firmly believe that with “globalisation” at such a rapid pace, people will actually forget
about the “idea” of eating traditional food as we all will start preparing and enjoying all kinds of food
from different parts of the world. In fact, I wouldn’t be surprised if we see each and every country
organizing some kinds of international food festivals or international cooking competition in the
coming decades in order to encourage their citizens to change their food habits so that they don’t
have to rely on only one certain kind of food to “survive” when there is a “famine” or “drought”.

Besides, I also wouldn’t be surprised if most of the people in different parts of the world stop
cooking at home completely because of making fast food available at a very affordable price.
However, at the same time, I wouldn’t also be surprised if we see “obesity” becoming an epidemic
problem or disease all over the world.

Alternative Answer: I think eating habits will continue to evolve, especially with the rise of
technology and concern for the environment. We might see more people turning to plant-based
diets or even lab-grown meat. Meal delivery services and smart kitchen gadgets could become even
more common, making cooking faster and more efficient. Also, with global influences and the ease of
international travel, I believe our diets will become even more diverse. People may focus more on
sustainability and choosing foods that are good for both health and the planet.

Q. 6. What one aspect of a foreign tradition do you like about their eating habits? Why?
Answer: I like pretty much all the traditions with regard to the eating habits of all countries and
cultures as they all help me to understand and appreciate the “diversities” in our world in a better
way. But one particular tradition, which I really like, is the habit of eating fish by the Japanese people.
In fact, fish is featured so much prominently on the Japanese food menu that the average Japanese
person consumes more than 154 pounds annually - or about a half pound a day? (!)

The Japanese are so “mad” about eating fish that they collectively consume 12% of the world’s fish
while accounting for only 2% of the global population. I like this particular habit because the health
benefits of eating fish are just too many to count, and I also happen to enjoy eating fish too much!
Besides, who doesn’t know that fresh, cured, smoked, or salted, fish - loaded with vitamin A and
omega-3 fatty acids - helps to protect against various types of cancer!

Alternative Answer: One tradition I really admire is the Japanese habit of eating in smaller portions
and appreciating the presentation of food. It’s not just about eating, it’s about enjoying the look,
taste, and experience of each bite. I think that kind of mindful eating encourages better digestion
and helps avoid overeating. It’s a healthier and more respectful way to approach food, and it reminds
people to slow down and enjoy their meals.

Let me know if you'd like a shorter version of these for speaking practice, or want me to tailor the
answers for a different country.

IELTS Speaking Part 3 Topic: Friends at school & Making new friends.

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[Discussion topic: Friends at school]


Q. How important is it for children to have lots of friends at school?
Q. Do you think it is wrong for parents to influence which friends their children have?
Q. Why do you think children often choose different friends as they get older?

[Discussion topic: Making new friends]


Q. If a person is moving to a new town, what is a good way for them to make friends?
Q. Can you think of any disadvantages of making new friends online?
Q. Would you say it is harder for people to make new friends as they get older?

[Friends at school]
Q. How important is it for children to have lots of friends at school?
Answer: Having plenty of friends at school is beneficial, but I think the quality of friendships is more
important than quantity. Friendships at school provide emotional support, boost children's
confidence, and enhance their social skills. Good friends help children cope with stress, improve their
self-esteem, and make their school experiences more enjoyable. While having many friends may
offer a broader range of interactions, a few close and genuine friendships can be even more valuable,
providing deeper emotional support and lasting bonds.

Q. Do you think it is wrong for parents to influence which friends their children have?
Answer: I don't think it's entirely wrong for parents to guide their children's friendships, especially if
parents notice negative influences or behaviours in certain friendships. Parents have more life
experience and can recognize when certain friendships might be harmful. However, excessive
interference or control isn't healthy, as children should have the opportunity to develop judgment
and social skills independently. Ideally, parents should provide advice, set reasonable boundaries,
and encourage open communication without completely dictating their children's choices. I believe
that this balanced approach fosters trust, allowing children to learn from their experiences while still
feeling supported by their parents.

Q. Why do you think children often choose different friends as they get older?
Answer: Well, children frequently choose different friends as they mature because their interests,
priorities, and values naturally evolve over time. Young children usually form friendships based on
shared play activities or proximity. However, as children grow older, friendships are based more on
common interests, personalities, and life perspectives. For example, adolescents might prefer friends
who share their passions, ambitions, or social outlooks, reflecting their developing identities and
changing emotional needs. Also, changes such as moving schools, participating in new extracurricular
activities, or simply growing apart due to personal development can lead children to form new
relationships aligned with their evolving personalities.

[Making new friends]


Q. If a person is moving to a new town, what is a good way for them to make friends?
Answer: If someone moves to a new town, participating in community activities is an excellent way
to make friends. Joining local clubs, sports teams, or volunteering groups allows individuals to meet
like-minded people. Attending community events or workshops can also be helpful, as these
environments foster interaction and connection. Additionally, exploring local cafes, libraries, or
recreational areas can provide informal opportunities for meeting new people. Overall, being
approachable, open-minded, and willing to engage actively in community life greatly increases the
chances of building new friendships in an unfamiliar location.

Q. Can you think of any disadvantages of making new friends online?


Answer: Yes, making friends online has certain disadvantages. One significant concern is the difficulty
of verifying people's true identities and intentions, which could lead to deception or exploitation.
Additionally, online friendships sometimes lack the depth and emotional connection found in face-
to-face interactions. Communication online can also lead to misunderstandings, as it lacks important
cues like body language and tone of voice. Furthermore, excessive reliance on online friendships
might discourage people from forming meaningful, real-world relationships, potentially leading to
social isolation or loneliness. Therefore, while online friendships can be valuable, they ideally should
complement rather than replace face-to-face connections.

Q. Would you say it is harder for people to make new friends as they get older?
Answer: Yes, I think it's generally harder to make new friends as people age. Adults often have
established routines, busy work schedules, and family responsibilities that limit their opportunities
for social interaction. Additionally, adults may become more selective or cautious about who they
form friendships with due to past experiences or less time available for nurturing new relationships.
Unlike young people, who regularly encounter potential friends in school or university, adults often
have fewer structured opportunities to meet new people.

IELTS Speaking Part 3 topic: Transport.

IELTS preparation bootcamps

1. How do most people travel long distances in your country?


2. Have the types of transport people use changed much over the last few decades?
3. What kind of improvement have there been in transport in your country in recent years?
4. Do you think transport is likely to continue to improve in the future?
5. Do you think most people should use public transports? Why/ why not?
6. Why do some countries impose higher taxes on car ownership? How is the scenario in your
country?

Q. 1. How do most people travel long distances in your country?


Answer: In Bangladesh, where I live, most people use either buses or trains when travelling a long
distance. Bangladesh has more than 21,000 kilometres of road, crisscrossed all over the country, and
about 3000 kilometres of railway. In the year 2017, almost 75 million passengers travelled by rail.
However, there is a very tiny percentage of wealthy people who have started to travel by domestic
aeroplanes as well. In the past, water transports were highly used throughout the country but in
recent days, the use is restricted to villages only.

Alternative Answer: In Canada, most people travel long distances either by plane or by car. Since the
country is so large and cities are often far apart, flying is the fastest and most convenient option,
especially for cross-country travel. However, if people are travelling within the same province or to
nearby towns, they usually drive. There are also trains and buses, but those are used less frequently
for long-distance travel compared to air and road transport.

Q. 2. Have the types of transport people use changed much over the last few decades?
Answer: As a developing nation, Bangladesh still is heavily reliant on affordable public transport, but
over the last few decades, the country has gradually started to prefer a bit more expensive private
transport, such as private cars, private minivans and private commercial buses, over the public
transports because of their “easy” availability. This change has taken place, of course, because of the
steady economic growth in the country over the last few decades. Another significant change, which
my country has witnessed in the last few decades, is that the number of motorbikes has skyrocketed
(because of their availability and affordability) as more and more people are relying on these two-
wheeled vehicles in order to travel short distances rather easily and conveniently.

Alternative Answer: Yes, definitely it has changed. In the past, people mostly relied on their personal
vehicles, and public transport wasn’t always convenient or widely used, especially in suburban and
rural areas. But now, there's been a shift as more people are using public transportation in big cities
like Toronto and Vancouver, and there’s also been a rise in cycling and walking for shorter distances.
Ride-sharing apps and electric scooters have also become popular in recent years.

Q. 3. What kind of improvement have there been in transport in your country in recent years?
Answer: In recent years, the road and transportation system in Bangladesh has significantly
improved as more wide highways and roads have been built to facilitate the transportation of a
greater number of vehicles from one part of the country to another. Major bridges over the large
rivers, connecting one part of the country to another, and elevated expressways have also been built
in order to significantly reduce the travel time and length.

As for the improvements in vehicles, more and more luxurious buses and trains with air conditioning
systems have been added, both in private and public sectors, in order to ensure comfort and luxury
for the passengers recently. The number of domestic flights of aeroplanes has also increased
significantly over the last few years as more and more passengers are becoming interested in using
aerial routes.

Alternative Answer: In recent years, there’s been a big focus on making transport more eco-friendly
and efficient. For example, we’ve seen an increase in electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, better
bike lanes, and improvements in city transit systems like buses and subways. Some cities have
introduced electric buses and are expanding their transit networks. Technology has also played a role
—apps now make it easier to plan trips, pay for transit, and track buses in real time.

Q. 4. Do you think transport is likely to continue to improve in the future?


Answer: Yes, I have every reason to believe that the improvement in our transportation sector will
continue to improve in the future as the country is well on the course of becoming a middle-income
developed country. Besides, with the ever-increasing economic and development activities in the
country, Bangladesh has no choice but to develop its road infrastructure and overall transportation
system sooner rather than later. In fact, I wouldn’t be surprised if I see that a significant number of
people are taking aerial routes to travel from one part of the country to another in the near future in
order to save time.

Alternative Answer: Yes, I very positively think so. As technology keeps advancing and environmental
concerns become more serious, I think we’ll see even more investment in cleaner and smarter
transport solutions. Things like autonomous vehicles, high-speed rail, and better-connected public
transport systems are likely to become more common. There’s also a push toward encouraging
people to walk, cycle, or use electric vehicles to reduce carbon emissions.

Q. 5. Do you think most people should use public transports? Why/ why not?
Answer: Yes, I think that most people should use public transports, depending on their availability, as
they seem to be more affordable and more reliable in most cases. Besides, in a developing nation like
Bangladesh, allowing private citizens to dominate a particular service sector almost inevitably will
pave the way for “abuse” and “exploitation” of the existing system in order to “reap off” the citizens
financially. On top of that, with more and more people using public transportation systems, the
country will be able to put a “cap” on the “indiscriminate use” of private transports, even when not
needed, in order to prevent the roads and streets from getting over-crowded. And, as a result of this,
we will be able to keep a “cap” on air pollution as well in our country.

Alternative Answer: Yes, I do think public transport should be used more widely. It’s better for the
environment, helps reduce traffic congestion, and can be more cost-effective than owning a car,
especially in urban areas. If public transport is reliable, clean, and safe, more people would be
encouraged to use it. Of course, in rural or remote areas, public options are limited, so private cars
are still necessary there.

Q. 6. Why do some countries impose higher taxes on car ownership? How is the scenario in your
country?
Answer: The primary reason to impose hefty taxes on car ownership is to discourage citizens from
buying and using more and more private cars and to curb air pollution.

The scenario in my country is not much different when it comes to imposing higher taxes on car
ownership. In fact, over the last decade, the number of private cars has increased to such an extent
that the government has been forced to put a tax on the ownership of a new car as high as 300% of
the purchasing price in some cases!

This kind of high tax is only natural in countries where there are a huge number of travellers with
significantly limited road infrastructures as this is how the government of a country tries to limit the
number of private cars on the streets. This should be also a familiar scenario in countries where
there are risks of higher air pollution than its normal danger level.

Alternative Answer: Some countries impose higher taxes on car ownership to control traffic, reduce
pollution, and encourage people to use public transport. It's also a way to discourage excessive car
use in overcrowded cities. In Canada, car taxes vary by province but are generally not extremely high.
However, there are registration fees, fuel taxes, and insurance costs that add up. Some cities also
offer incentives for people to buy electric cars, which is a good way to promote greener
transportation without making car ownership unaffordable.

IELTS Speaking Part 3 Topic: Neighbours & Facilities in cities.


IELTS preparation bootcamps

[Discussion topic: Neighbours]


Q. What sort of things can neighbours do to help each other?
Q. How well do people generally know their neighbours in your country?
Q. How important do you think it is to have good neighbours?

[Discussion topic: Facilities in cities]


Q. Which facilities are most important to people living in cities?
Q. How does shopping in small local shops differ from shopping in large city centre shops?
Q. Do you think that children should always go to the school nearest to where they live?

[Neighbours]
Q. What sort of things can neighbours do to help each other?
Answer: Well, neighbours can lend a helping hand in a variety of ways, I believe. For instance, they
can look after each other's homes when someone goes on holiday, or keep an eye on elderly
neighbours who might need assistance from time to time. They can also share useful information or
resources, like tools or equipment. In emergencies, neighbours are often the first ones we can turn
to for immediate help. In my view, small acts of kindness like these really build strong relationships
and foster a genuine community spirit.

Q. How well do people generally know their neighbours in your country?


Answer: I think it's fair to say that it varies quite a bit. In rural or suburban areas, people usually
know their neighbours quite well and they often socialise regularly and have close connections.
However, in large cities, the situation is rather different. City dwellers generally lead busy lives and
might not even know who lives next door. From my personal experience, urban residents tend to
value their privacy more and, as a result, relationships with neighbours tend to be more distant or
formal compared to smaller communities.

Q. How important do you think it is to have good neighbours?


Answer: Honestly, having good neighbours can make a world of difference. Good neighbours provide
a sense of security and community, and in times of crisis, they can genuinely be lifesavers. On top of
that, maintaining friendly relationships with neighbours can improve our quality of life, making
everyday interactions pleasant and supportive. All things considered, I’d say having good neighbours
is invaluable, and building positive relationships with them is definitely worthwhile.

[Facilities in cities]
Q. Which facilities are most important to people living in cities?
Answer: If you ask me, essential facilities such as public transport, healthcare centres, schools, and
parks are probably the most important. Efficient public transport helps city dwellers commute easily,
while accessible healthcare facilities ensure people's well-being. Schools within easy reach are vital
for families with children, and parks offer much-needed green spaces for relaxation and recreation.
In addition, other facilities like shopping malls, community centres, and sports facilities are also
highly valued for providing convenience and entertainment in urban life.

Q. How does shopping in small local shops differ from shopping in large city centre shops?
Answer: That's an interesting question. Small local shops usually offer a more personalised and
friendly experience, as shopkeepers often know their customers by name and preferences. On the
other hand, large city centre shops typically offer greater variety, better deals, and more competitive
prices, although the shopping experience might feel impersonal. Another point worth mentioning is
that shopping locally helps support small businesses and the local economy while shopping at big
centres can feel more convenient and efficient for busy city residents.

Q. Do you think that children should always go to the school nearest to where they live?
Answer: Well, not necessarily. While attending the nearest school has obvious benefits like
convenience and reduced commuting time, it's important to consider other factors as well. For
instance, the quality of education, facilities, extracurricular activities, and overall environment should
also be taken into account. Personally, I think parents should weigh up all these aspects to decide
what's best for their child's education and development, even if it means travelling slightly further to
attend a better-suited school.

IELTS Speaking Part 3 topic: Famous people.

IELTS preparation bootcamps

1. Do you think that famous people are generally happier than ordinary people? Why is that?
2. What qualities does a person need to have in order to be famous?
3. Is it easier or more difficult to achieve fame today than in your grandparents’ time?
4. In what ways do famous people influence the public?
5. Do you think more is expected from famous people than ordinary citizens? Why?
6. What types of people become famous in your country? Do you want to be famous?

Q. 1. Do you think that famous people are generally happier than ordinary people? Why is that?
Answer: The problem with the definition of “happiness” is that it just has no common definition and
meaning that is accepted by all. In fact, every individual chooses to define happiness in his/ her own
unique way the way he/she deems it.

So, are the famous people are generally happier than ordinary people? Well, I would venture to say
that being “famous” has nothing to do with being “happier” simply because “happiness” is nothing
but just a state of mind. Of course, famous people are usually more satisfied than the average people
because their “needs and wants” are easily met at their will. But, unfortunately, we tend to confuse
‘satisfaction’ with ‘happiness’. However, does that necessarily mean that famous people can’t be
happier than ordinary people? Well, the answer is, of course, they can be, but it will be so not
because they are “famous”, but because they just “choose” to remain happy with or without having
the “satisfaction” in life just like the “ordinary” people.

Q. 2. What qualities does a person need to have in order to be famous?


Answer: Becoming a famous and “successful” person is not really easy. But, a person can become
famous in his/her own right by winning against all the challenges and battles, thrown at him or her,
because of carrying certain qualities in his or her life. And, some of these qualities are 'passion,
persistence (or patience), hard work, positive attitude, self-reliance, self-confidence, integrity and
rock-strong willpower'. Of course, a person also needs to have his or her fair share of “luck” as well in
order to become famous. But, of all these qualities, I would say that “patience” may prove out to be
the most important and decisive factor in attaining “fame” as one may need to wait a long time to
achieve it. However, it is worth mentioning here that if a person’s sole intention is to become
“famous” by hook or by crook, without necessarily understanding the “value” of it, the “success” will
probably be a very “short-lived” matter for him or her at the end of the day.
Q. 3. Is it easier or more difficult to achieve fame today than in your grandparents’ time?
Answer: Yes, for better or worse, it is easier, generally speaking, to “achieve” fame today than in our
grandparents’ time primarily because today people have more scopes and opportunities at their
disposal to advertise themselves on different kinds of media channels due to technological
advancements. Besides, we also seem to have “compromised” a lot with the traditional social and
cultural values in becoming famous. In fact, it looks like the more one can behave “out of the box”,
the easier it gets for him or her to be famous. I have a friend who has more than 80 thousand
YouTube followers and he is kind of famous in his community. It was unheard of during my
grandparents' era, thanks to the technological advancement we have in our modern days.

Q. 4. In what ways do famous people influence the public?


Answer: Famous people, be they in sports, politics, cinema, business or whatever, can influence and
inspire people with their talent, hard work, sincerity and styles. Sometimes, the way famous people
lead personal lives and handle problems and relationships, can actually set examples for the general
public. But, the problem is, sometimes, people tend to forget about their own responsibilities as they
may not be able to accept the mistakes of their favourite famous person(s). Sometimes, they even
try to justify not only the mistakes of their favourite famous persons but also their own, which can
actually be misleading for the rest of the general public.

Q. 5. Do you think more is expected from famous people than ordinary citizens?
Answer: Yes, I do think that more is expected from famous people than ordinary citizens as being
famous usually means that they have more “power” and “influence” to accomplish good things
economically, socially and culturally in order to help the average people with no or very limited
“power”. Famous people also have the power to communicate or to reach a large segment of
ordinary citizens as they are the leaders of their followers more often than not. Therefore, it is only
natural for the ordinary citizen to expect that famous people must have a good sense of
responsibility to guide their followers towards a better life.

Q. 6. What types of people become famous in your country? Do you want to be famous?
Answer: People, who work in the film industry and play sports, usually become famous in my
country rather quickly. And politicians don’t really lag very far behind them either. However, the
difference is, in my opinion, the famous people in the film industry and sports are “famous” because
most of the average citizens genuinely like them because of their creativities and performance while
people “like” the famous politicians out of “fear”.

Yes, I would like to be famous one day, but I am certainly not looking to be famous “overnight” as
many of the “so-called” famous people these days who have pretty much changed the “rules of the
game” for the worse.

IELTS Speaking Part 3 topic: Holiday.

IELTS preparation bootcamps

1. Why do you think people go on holiday?


2. How important is it for families to go on holiday together?
3. Why do some people go on holiday alone?
4. What kind of holidays will be popular in the future?
5. Is it better to take a holiday in your own country or in a foreign country? Why?
6. What problems can people have on holiday in a foreign country?

Q. 1. Why do you think people go on holiday?


Answer: Life is too short to spend doing the same things over and over again for all of our lives and
become “bored” to death. The only way we can get rid of this “boredom” is to do something
different from time to time, and there just seems to be no better way of doing this than going on
holiday. So, people go on holidays to enjoy their lives a little and have some fun as it helps them to
reduce their stress and increase their level of immunity. In fact, some reports suggest that people,
who do not take vacations, have a 21% higher risk of death from all causes. When you go on holiday,
you become more positive about your life and the surroundings around you as you get exposed to
new environments, different human behaviours, cultures and diverse ways of doing things. In other
words, going on holidays serves as an unstructured education for you where you absorb “treasures
of lessons” which is not possible to gain otherwise.

Q. 2. How important is it for families to go on holiday together?


Answer: It is absolutely important for families to go on holiday together because when working or
doing something, we tend to compromise on our relationships, especially within our families. In fact,
as “work deadlines” take priority in our lives, we usually miss out on family gatherings and regular
bonding opportunities. Now, if we wait for our retirements to compensate for our lost time and
opportunities, we will have to wait for a long, long time.

But, luckily we can make up for those lost time and opportunities by going on holidays with our
families together by carefully planning them whenever we get an opportunity. In other words, we
should never underestimate the power of holidays as a very good way to create an even stronger
bond with our families even if it means spending an hour enjoying a family meal together.

Q. 3. Why do some people go on holiday alone?


Answer: Some people go on holiday alone mainly because travelling alone can be an incredibly
liberating experience with the freedom to do exactly what you want to do, when you want to do it,
and how exactly you want to do it. If you go on holiday alone, there will be no arguments, no
compromises and no worrying about which place to visit and what foods to eat. Some people also
prefer to go solo because they just don’t like to put up with some “annoying” habits of their fellow
travellers.

Q. 4. What kind of holidays will be popular in the future?


Answer: We can debate all we want on what kind of holidays will be popular in the future, but one
thing is for sure some are going to be real “hi-tech” and much more “luxurious” than what it is in the
present days. Interestingly, the popular UK newspaper, The Guardian, published a news article in
2014 on what kind of holidays would be popular in the future in which it predicted that travellers will
“have no need to encounter a single human being” from the moment they check into the hotel to
the moment when they check out! In other words, robots will do the job. In fact, hotel rooms will be
transformed into digital, hyper-interactive spaces in which even the pillows will be “embedded” with
an electronic device(s) to massage your neck and wake you up in the morning! Now, if that wasn’t
enough surprising for you, please wait till you read what else the newspaper had to say! Anyway, it
went on saying that “the walls will display high definition images of your friends and family, hologram
personal trainers will hang out with you and the shower will use sound technology to “agitate” dirt
from your body, using a traffic light system to indicate when you’re clean enough to get out.” Sounds
pretty cool! Doesn’t it? (!)
Q. 5. Is it better to take a holiday in your own country or in a foreign country? Why?
Answer: I would say that I would prefer to take a holiday in my own country since my country has
pretty much everything from blue and beautiful oceans to mountains and from snow to plenty of
green spaces and plenty of unique architecture. In fact, my country is among the top 10 visited
countries in the world with more than 30 million travellers visiting it every year. So, I would rather be
interested to see my own beautiful country than some distant foreign lands. Besides, I would
certainly feel more comfortable and secure when having holidays in my own country. On top of that,
I haven’t also travelled to most areas and locations in my own country since it has a rather large area.
So, if I visit some of those locations, the chances are I will get to see something very unique right
here in my own country without ever needing to see them in another country. Of course, I have
nothing against visiting another country, but, given what I already have in my country, I would always
prefer my own country as a popular holiday destination over others.

Q. 6. What problems can people have on holiday in a foreign country?


Answer: People can have a number of problems, especially if they don’t know the language of the
locals, when enjoying a holiday in a foreign country. For example, you may lose your important stuff,
or you yourself might get lost in the process of travelling from one place to another, and you would
be in real trouble if you couldn’t communicate your problems properly to the locals. You would also
have trouble getting used to the food of a foreign land no matter how “exotic” and delicious they
may sound. However, the biggest problem of having holidays in a foreign country would be getting
really sick. With no family or close friends (considering that you are travelling alone) and no proper
health insurance policy, your life could be in real danger in a foreign country if you were ever to fall
sick.

IELTS Speaking Part 3 Topic: Public monuments & Architecture.

IELTS preparation bootcamps

[Discussion topic: Public monuments]

Q. What kinds of monuments do tourists in your country enjoy visiting?


Q. Why do you think there are often statues of famous people in public places?
Q. Do you agree that old monuments and buildings should always be preserved?

[Discussion topic: Architecture]

Q. Why is architecture such a popular university subject?


Q. In what ways has the design of homes changed in recent years?
Q. To what extent does the design of buildings affect people's moods?

[Public monuments]
Q. What kinds of monuments do tourists in your country enjoy visiting?
Answer: Well, tourists in my country typically enjoy visiting historical monuments such as ancient
temples, forts, palaces, and national landmarks that represent our rich history and cultural heritage.
Famous sites like the Taj Mahal, Red Fort, and various historical temples are particularly popular
because they offer insights into our past and reflect our architectural traditions. Additionally, tourists
love exploring monuments associated with national heroes, freedom fighters, or historical events, as
these landmarks tell powerful stories and provide memorable experiences. Overall, these attractions
hold great appeal for both domestic and international visitors.

Q. Why do you think there are often statues of famous people in public places?
Answer: I think statues of famous individuals are placed in public areas mainly as symbols of respect
and remembrance. These figures usually represent significant contributions made to society,
whether in politics, science, arts, or social reform. Placing statues in public spaces serves as a
constant reminder of their achievements and inspires current and future generations to aspire to
similar values and accomplishments. Additionally, these statues play an important role in preserving
historical and cultural identity, reminding the public about key figures who shaped our society and
nation’s history.

Q. Do you agree that old monuments and buildings should always be preserved?
Answer: Yes, absolutely. Preserving old monuments and buildings is crucial because they reflect our
history, cultural identity, and architectural heritage. They serve as tangible connections to our past,
helping us understand historical events and traditions more deeply. Besides their historical value,
preserved monuments attract tourism, significantly contributing to local economies. However, having
said that, I also think preservation should be practical meaning structures should be properly
maintained or restored in ways that retain their authenticity while ensuring public safety and
practical usability.

[Architecture]
Q. Why is architecture such a popular university subject?
Answer: Architecture is a popular university subject mainly because it combines creativity,
technology, and practical skills, making it appealing to students with diverse interests. The subject
allows students to be imaginative, designing structures that impact people's everyday lives and
shape communities. Additionally, architecture offers attractive career prospects, as architects play
key roles in urban planning, sustainability, and environmental design, all highly relevant today. It’s
also seen as a prestigious profession, blending artistry and science, providing opportunities to leave a
lasting impact on society. For these reasons, I believe architecture continues to attract many
enthusiastic students each year.

Q. In what ways has the design of homes changed in recent years?


Answer: Well, home designs have changed dramatically in recent years. There's a noticeable shift
toward more open-plan living spaces that promote interaction and flexibility, unlike older homes
with clearly defined, separate rooms. Furthermore, modern homes often prioritize natural light,
energy efficiency, and sustainable materials, reflecting growing environmental awareness.
Additionally, technology has influenced home designs, incorporating smart home systems for
improved comfort, convenience, and security. Lastly, contemporary home designs typically
emphasize minimalism and functionality, offering simpler yet stylish living spaces that align with
current lifestyles and trends.

Q. To what extent does the design of buildings affect people's moods?


Answer: In my opinion, the design of buildings significantly affects people’s moods and emotions. For
example, bright, spacious, and well-ventilated buildings tend to make people feel happier and more
energetic, while cramped or poorly lit spaces can lead to stress, fatigue, or discomfort. Architectural
elements like colours, textures, natural elements, and open layouts play essential roles in creating
pleasant atmospheres, positively influencing productivity, creativity, and mental health. Additionally,
thoughtful building design can enhance social interactions and encourage positive feelings among
occupants. Therefore, architecture profoundly influences our daily experiences and overall emotional
well-being.

IELTS Speaking Part 3 topic: Technology.

1. What are the advantages and disadvantages of modern technology?


2. In what ways has technology changed your society?
3. How has technology changed the way we communicate?
4. How has technology changed the nature of long-distance relationships?
5. What are the limitations of technology when it comes to interpersonal relationships?
6. How could technology be considered a hindrance for us? Can we overcome it?

Q. 1. What are the advantages and disadvantages of modern technology?


Answer: Modern technology today is an integral part of our lives, and therefore, we will have to live
with it whether we like it or not.

Among the advantages of modern technology, I can say that it has made our lives much easier than
they used to be ever before a few decades ago. It has revolutionized our production systems in all
kinds of businesses and industries by increasing the output, quality and efficiency at all levels. The
advancement in communication technology, with the advent of the internet, has made
communication among us so easy and fast that we can actually talk to each other on video even if we
are a world apart from each other. Besides, modern technologies also made it pretty easy for us to
get access to virtually any kind of information at any time and anywhere through smart gadgets like
the iPad, iPhone, Galaxy tablets and so on. Finally, the use of modern technology has also made it
very easy for us to travel long distances really fast. In fact, nowadays, we can travel a 10-mile distance
within just a few minutes, if not any less, by using electric trains, aeroplanes and fast cars which were
almost impossible even a few decades ago.

On the other hand, one of the greatest disadvantages of using modern technology is it makes us
“idle” to the point that we don’t even make an effort to do a calculation as simple as adding or
subtracting and use a calculator to do it. But the problem with such “inaction” is that we are actually
killing some of the memory cells in our brains. Modern technology is also being used to bring deaths
and destruction upon this earth as it helps in building such advanced new war weapons that it was
impossible to imagine them even a few decades back. Finally, as most technological discoveries like
Artificial Intelligence aim to reduce human efforts, it would only mean that more work is done by
machines instead of humans. And as a result, more and more people are losing their jobs to
machines and AI as processes are becoming automated, and humans just can’t compete with such
processes.

Q. 2. In what ways has technology changed your society?


Answer: For better or worse, technology has changed our society in the way we earn our living and
the way we interact with each other. It also has changed our “mobility”. Nowadays, because of
technology, we don’t rely on just one source of income, and as a result, society has become more
“affluent” than in the past. Another remarkable change, that has taken place in our society for good,
is that we can travel to any place at any time without wasting our time. Besides, with the
advancement of information technology such as the internet and smartphones, my small society
feels like it has suddenly become a part of a “much bigger global community”.
Q. 3. How has technology changed the way we communicate?
Answer: Technology pretty much has changed each and every aspect of our lives, but perhaps it is
safe to say that it has changed the way we communicate with each other the most with the advent of
the internet, mobile phones and smart gadgets.

Technology has indeed proved the age-old saying “talk is cheap”- so cheap that we talk to each other
by using our phones pretty much always, whether we are staying close to each other or far apart,
even when we don’t need it. We have also become too lazy to walk even 100 feet or a few minutes
these days if we are in need to communicate something to our friends or families since we can do
the same in seconds just by pushing a button on our phones. But, if we are not in a mood or feel
really lazy to “talk” sometimes, we simply leave or send a message on social media networks and
“messenger” to inform others about our “status”. Finally, technology has made communication really
“personal” as we can see each other on live video while communicating, no matter where we live
with the use of the internet.

Q. 4. How has technology changed the nature of long-distance relationships?


Answer: Technology has changed the nature of long-distance relationships mostly for the better. In
the past, we would have to rely on “postal mails”, or expensive “long-distance” calls from our land
phones, to communicate with each other. But even that was not always possible due to the limited
“infrastructure” necessary to ensure these services efficiently. But, with the improvement in the
communication infrastructure and communication technologies, such as the internet and
smartphones, we can not only communicate with each other in seconds, but we can actually see
each other live on video, even if we live in another corner of the world. So, by the way, we wouldn’t
be really very surprised if we see one day that the postal mails are being preserved in a museum as a
“thing of the past”.

Q. 5. What are the limitations of technology when it comes to interpersonal relationships?


Answer: Continuing a healthy “interpersonal relationship” is very important for our overall well-
being. But, unfortunately, modern technology has affected our lives rather negatively by taking the
all-important “emotion” away from us to a large extent. In fact, with the advancement of technology,
we have become so busy and “robotic” that we don’t even care to say “hello” to the closest
members of our families, let alone spend some quality “family time” with them. As a result, the
“personal ties and bonds” are becoming very loose with our family members, especially when it
comes to the elderly ones, and friends which certainly doesn’t augur well for the well-being of our
society.

Q. 6. How could technology be considered a hindrance for us? Can we overcome it?
Answer: Modern technology can be considered as an impediment for us when we are relying too
much on it. In fact, it wouldn’t be an exaggeration to suggest that technology is limiting our potential
and growth, as humans, both physically and mentally. For example, before the advancement of
modern technology, we used to walk to a local grocery shop, in order to buy our groceries, which was
certainly good for our health and minds (since we could feel more close to our natural surroundings).
But, now, we simply ride in our vehicles to do the same task because we just feel too lazy to get out
of our comfort zone. The end result of such “laziness”? The answer is “Obesity” with a big “O”!

However, the greatest, and also the most dangerous at the same time, in my opinion, hindrance is
that we have actually started to believe that without technology, we just won’t be able to survive. In
other words, we are leaving ourselves to the “mercy” of technology, and if, God forbids, it ever stops
working, our very existence, as a human race, will be at stake. So, can we overcome this hindrance?
Yes, we sure can if we just reduce our reliance on technology a little and make ourselves a bit more
“active” both physically and mentally.

IELTS Speaking Part 3 Topic: Arriving late & Managing study time.

[Discussion topic: Arriving late]


Q. Do you think it's OK to arrive late when meeting a friend?
Q. What should happen to people who arrive late for work?
Q. Can you suggest how people can make sure they don't arrive late?

[Discussion topic: Managing study time]


Q. Is it better to study for long periods or in shorter blocks of time?
Q. What are the likely effects of students not managing their study time well?
Q. How important is it for students to have enough leisure time?

[Arriving late]
Q. Do you think it's OK to arrive late when meeting a friend?
Answer: Well, honestly, I'd say it depends on the situation. Occasionally being a bit late due to
unavoidable circumstances, like traffic or unexpected emergencies, is understandable, especially with
close friends who might be more forgiving. However, regularly arriving late could be seen as
disrespectful or inconsiderate because it suggests that you don't value your friend's time. In my view,
consistently punctual behaviour shows respect and reliability, which are essential qualities in
maintaining healthy friendships. So, in general, it’s always best to be on time as much as possible.

Q. What should happen to people who arrive late for work?


Answer: That's an interesting question. Personally, I think workplaces should initially address
lateness through informal warnings or conversations to understand the underlying reasons and help
employees improve punctuality. If the issue continues, more formal measures, such as official
warnings or disciplinary actions, might be appropriate. However, it's crucial to first understand the
context—sometimes people face genuine issues like transportation problems or personal
responsibilities. Employers should ideally offer support and clear expectations rather than
immediately resorting to punishment, creating a positive environment that encourages punctuality
and responsibility.

Q. Can you suggest how people can make sure they don't arrive late?
Answer: Well, there are several practical ways people can ensure punctuality, in my opinion. Firstly,
they can prepare ahead by planning their schedule carefully and setting reminders or alarms.
Allowing extra time for unexpected delays, like heavy traffic or public transport issues, can really
help. Additionally, getting organised the night before, such as laying out clothes or packing bags, can
save precious time in the morning. Developing good time-management habits and establishing
routines can also significantly improve punctuality. In short, a bit of forward planning and self-
discipline go a long way in ensuring people arrive on time.

[Managing study time]


Q. Is it better to study for long periods or in shorter blocks of time?
Answer: In my experience, studying in shorter blocks of time is typically more effective than
prolonged study sessions. Research has shown that studying in intervals, with breaks in between, can
enhance concentration, improve information retention, and prevent burnout. This method, often
called "chunking," helps students maintain a higher level of focus and motivation. On the other hand,
lengthy study periods without breaks often result in diminishing returns, fatigue, and reduced
productivity. Therefore, breaking study sessions into shorter, manageable segments seems to be a
smarter and healthier approach overall.

Q. What are the likely effects of students not managing their study time well?
Answer: When students don't manage their study time effectively, the consequences can be quite
significant. Firstly, they may experience increased stress, anxiety, or even panic, particularly when
exams or deadlines approach. Poor time management usually leads to rushed or incomplete
assignments, negatively affecting their academic performance. Additionally, they might develop
unhealthy habits like late-night cramming, resulting in sleep deprivation and poor physical and
mental health. In the long run, consistently poor time management can impact students' confidence
and overall educational outcomes, highlighting the importance of developing strong time
management skills from an early age.

Q. How important is it for students to have enough leisure time?


Answer: Honestly, having sufficient leisure time is extremely important for students. Leisure activities
provide essential relaxation, allowing students to recharge mentally and emotionally. Engaging in
hobbies or socialising during free time can significantly reduce stress, boost creativity, and improve
overall mental health. Moreover, balancing study with leisure promotes better time management
skills and encourages a more sustainable study routine, ultimately leading to improved academic
performance. From my perspective, leisure time isn't just enjoyable, it’s crucial for a balanced and
successful student life.

IELTS Speaking Part 3 topic: Decision making.

1. Why do some people find it hard to make decisions?


2. How important is it to get advice from other people when making decisions?
3. Why is it sometimes difficult to accept advice?
4. What are some of the most important decisions young people have to make?
5. Do you agree that parents should make important decisions for their children?
6. Is it better to make a decision thinking about what you want or thinking about what other people
want?

Q. 1. Why do some people find it hard to make decisions?


Answer: Why do some find it really troublesome to make decisions? Well, they are probably of the
“Libra’ zodiac sign! Well, putting that little joke aside, I really wish that the answer to this question
was a simple one, but unfortunately, it isn’t. However, I would like to attribute such “indecision”
mostly to the “fear” of what kind of outcomes we would come up with after the decision was made
and implemented, simply because we humans, in general, are fearful of the “unknown” even at a
time when the “odds’ are very much in favour of some positive results. Making decisions for some
people becomes hard also probably because they are just not good enough at gathering all the
necessary data and information to make an “informed” decision.

Q. 2. How important is it to get advice from other people when making decisions?
Answer: It is very important, in my opinion, to receive advice from other people always, when
making decisions, primarily because it would help one become familiar with an array of ideas and
possibilities with regards to the kinds of outcomes he/she would need to expect. Besides, when we
are open to receiving advice from others, the chances are that we would be able to learn about the
outcomes when somebody made the same kind of decision in the past. Finally, we should be open to
receiving advice from others, when making decisions, even if they don’t serve our purposes in the
present since there is always a chance that they would benefit us in the future.

Q. 3. Why is it sometimes difficult to accept advice?


Answer: It is difficult to accept advice sometimes for some people mainly because of an inherent
human characteristic called “ego”. It is because of this “ego”, we sometimes fail to see the “truth”
just as we fail to accept advice. In other words, we feel that we know “better” than others and that
accepting advice from other people will “belittle” us in front of them. Of course, it also has
something to do with the “reliability and trustworthiness” of the persons who are offering advice.

Whether a piece of advice will be accepted or not depends largely also on the “location” where the
advice is being offered. For example, if we want to advise a person to do something while he is
terribly busy with his work at his office, the chances are that he won’t pay any attention to that
advice.

Q. 4. What are some of the most important decisions young people have to make?
Answer: Young people are not “exempted” from making important decisions just because they are
called “young”. In fact, they also have to make some important decisions in their lives such as what
kind of career path to choose; what kinds of subjects to study at universities, or when to get married
and start a family. Finally, what kind of “financial” and “health” habits to practice is also a very
important decision, along with the decisions above I just mentioned, for young people to make if
they want to live happy and healthy for the rest of their lives.

Q. 5. Do you agree that parents should make important decisions for their children?
Answer: Parents should make important decisions, in consent with the inputs and opinions of the
children, for their children until they reach their “adulthood”. But once they are grown up and ready
to leave the “nest”, parents should leave their children alone to make important decisions on their
own. If the parents don’t allow their children to make important decisions, they will probably never
learn how to take “risks’ in life and live on their own. In fact, parents should always encourage their
children to make decisions even if their children are reluctant to do so. After all, parents will never be
around them forever to help their children out during crucial times.

Q. 6. Is it better to make a decision thinking about what you want or thinking about what other
people want?
Answer: Yes, it is always better to make a decision thinking about what I really want instead of
worrying about what others really want primarily because it will be me who will have to live with
whatever decision I make for the rest of my life one way or another. Of course, it never harms to
consult with the people, we love or care for, and ask them what they also want, from time to time in
order to bring them on board with my decision, but the decision will always be mine based on what I
really want.

One thing, which is worth mentioning here, is that one doesn’t worry about what others want, not
because he/she has total disregard for others, but because it would be easier for the decision-maker
to achieve his/her goal rather easily since he/she is so intimately involved with the decision made.
IELTS Speaking Part 3 Topic: Different kinds of tourist attractions & The importance of international
tourism.

[Discussion topic: Different kinds of tourist attractions]

Q. What are the most popular tourist attractions in your country?


Q. How do the types of tourist attractions that younger people like to visit compare with those that
older people like to visit?
Q. Do you agree that some tourist attractions (e.g. national museums/galleries) should be free to
visit?

[Discussion topic: The importance of international tourism]

Q. Why is tourism important to a country?


Q. What are the benefits to individuals of visiting another country as tourists?
Q. How necessary is it for tourists to learn the language of the country they're visiting?

[Different kinds of tourist attractions]


Q. What are the most popular tourist attractions in your country?
Answer: My country offers a diverse mix of attractions that appeal to various interests. For example,
historical sites such as ancient fortresses and temples captivate tourists interested in culture and
heritage. Natural wonders like mountains, beaches, and national parks attract those seeking
adventure or relaxation. Additionally, vibrant metropolitan cities with bustling markets, museums,
and modern architecture are highly popular among urban explorers. These varied attractions ensure
that visitors have memorable and fulfilling experiences tailored to their preferences.

Q. How do the types of tourist attractions that younger people like to visit compare with those
that older people like to visit?
Answer: Generally speaking, younger travellers tend to gravitate toward activities involving
adventures, social experiences, and digital-friendly environments, such as theme parks, music
festivals, or trendy cafés and cityscapes they can share online. Conversely, older tourists often prefer
quieter, culturally enriching experiences like museums, historical landmarks, and scenic countryside
retreats. However, it's essential to recognize that personal interests vary widely, and many older
tourists also enjoy vibrant city life, while younger visitors can appreciate peaceful, historical sites as
well.

Q. Do you agree that some tourist attractions (e.g. national museums/galleries) should be free to
visit?
Answer: Absolutely, I believe offering free entry to attractions like national museums and art galleries
is beneficial for society. Making these sites freely accessible encourages broader cultural engagement
and education, allowing people from all socioeconomic backgrounds to appreciate art, history, and
heritage without financial barriers. While funding can be challenging, governments or private
sponsors could support these institutions, recognizing their role in enhancing public awareness and
national identity.

[The importance of international tourism]


Q. Why is tourism important to a country?
Answer: Tourism plays a crucial role in a country's economy and cultural exchange. Economically, it
generates revenue, creates jobs, and stimulates growth in the hospitality, retail, and transport
sectors. Additionally, tourism promotes cross-cultural understanding, helping people from different
backgrounds connect and appreciate diverse lifestyles and traditions. Moreover, it motivates
countries to preserve natural and historical sites, ultimately benefiting local communities and future
generations. Thus, tourism isn't merely an economic driver, it's also a pathway to global
interconnectedness and cultural preservation.

Q. What are the benefits to individuals of visiting another country as tourists?


Answer: In my view, travelling to another country offers individuals numerous personal benefits,
such as broadening their horizons and deepening their understanding of the world. Visitors
encounter new cultures, languages, and perspectives, fostering open-mindedness, adaptability, and
empathy. Travel experiences also enhance self-confidence and independence, as tourists navigate
unfamiliar environments and challenges. Moreover, international travel often inspires creativity,
providing fresh ideas and renewed enthusiasm when returning home. Overall, exploring different
cultures enriches personal growth and brings lasting, meaningful impacts on individuals' lives.

Q. How necessary is it for tourists to learn the language of the country they're visiting?
Answer: While it's not always essential for tourists to become fluent, I would say learning at least
some basic phrases is incredibly helpful and respectful. Simple greetings, common expressions, and
polite questions demonstrate cultural sensitivity and enhance interactions with locals, often resulting
in warmer, more authentic exchanges. Knowing the local language can also help tourists navigate
practical matters more smoothly, from ordering food to asking for directions. Although many popular
destinations cater to international visitors by providing multilingual support, attempting to speak the
local language always enriches the travel experience.

IELTS Speaking Part 3 Topic: Discussing problems with others & Communication skills at work.

[Discussion topic: Discussing problems with others]

Q. Why is it good to discuss problems with other people?


Q. Do you think that it's better to talk to friends and not family about problems?
Q. Is it always a good idea to tell lots of people about a problem?

[Discussion topic: Communication skills at work]

Q. Which communication skills are most important when taking part in meetings with colleagues?
Q. What are the possible effects of poor written communication skills at work?
Q. What do you think will be the future impact of technology on communication in the workplace?

[Discussing problems with others]


Q. Why is it good to discuss problems with other people?
Answer: Well, sharing problems with others can be incredibly helpful at times. It often allows us to
get a fresh perspective as others can see solutions we might have missed. It also helps to release
emotional tension and reduces stress when we talk things out. Additionally, discussing issues with
trusted people can provide moral support and reassurance, making it easier to cope with difficult
situations.
Q. Do you think that it's better to talk to friends and not family about problems?
Answer: It really depends on the nature of the problem and the individual’s relationship with both
friends and family. Friends might offer a more unbiased perspective, while family members could be
more emotionally involved, which sometimes makes it harder to get objective advice. However, the
family often provides unconditional support and a sense of security. Personally, I think it’s best to
choose whoever you feel most comfortable with and who you believe can provide the support you
need at that moment.

Q. Is it always a good idea to tell lots of people about a problem?


Answer: Not really. Sharing a problem with too many people can sometimes make the situation
more complicated, especially if it involves sensitive or personal information. It might lead to gossip or
unwanted opinions, which can add more stress rather than resolve the issue. I believe it’s better to
confide in a few trusted individuals rather than broadcasting it widely.

[Communication skills at work]


Q. Which communication skills are most important when taking part in meetings with colleagues?
Answer: In meetings, active listening is essential to understand others' points of view without
interrupting. Clear and concise speaking is also crucial, as it helps convey ideas effectively without
causing confusion. Additionally, being respectful and using positive body language can make
interactions more productive and encourage open communication. Being able to ask relevant
questions and give constructive feedback also enhances collaborative discussions.

 Q. What are the possible effects of poor written communication skills at work?
Answer: Poor written communication can lead to misunderstandings, mistakes, and a lack of
clarity in the workplace. For example, poorly worded emails or reports might confuse
colleagues or clients, causing frustration or even financial loss. It can also damage the
professional image of both the individual and the company. In the long run, it may hinder
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Speaking Part 3 - Details discussion (Part 3)

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More Resource: Useful Expressions to use in IELTS Speaking part 3

Topics: 1. Expensive items & Rich people. 2. Natural Environment. 3. Computer games &
Technology in the classroom. 4. Leadership and politics. 5. Life experience. 6. Famous people today
& Advantages of being famous. 7. Influence of television. 8. Retirement and old age. 9. Creating a
nice home & Different types of home. 10. Photography. 11. Science and the public & Scientific
discoveries. 12. Gift. 13. The internet and its impact on our social life. 14. Children and reading &
Electronic books. 15. Difficult jobs & Personal and career success.

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IELTS Speaking Part 3 Topic: Expensive items & Rich people.

[Discussion topic: Expensive items]


Q. Which expensive items would many young people (in your country) like to buy?
Q. How do the expensive items that younger people want to buy differ from those that older people
want to buy?
Q. Do you think that people are more likely to buy expensive items for their friends or for
themselves?

[Discussion topic: Rich people]


Q. How difficult is it to become very rich in today's world?
Q. Do you agree that money does not necessarily bring happiness?
Q. In what ways might rich people use their money to help society?

[Expensive items]
Q. Which expensive items would many young people (in your country) like to buy?
Answer: Oh, that's an interesting question! I'd say a lot of young people here dream of owning the
latest gadgets like smartphones or laptops, particularly those from premium brands. High-end
fashion items like designer clothes, shoes, and watches are also quite popular among younger
people, probably because they reflect a certain social status. Additionally, many aspire to own luxury
cars or motorcycles, because these symbolize independence, freedom, and success, things young
adults often value highly.

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Q. How do the expensive items that younger people want to buy differ from those that older
people want to buy?
Answer: Well, I'd say younger people usually focus more on trendy and fashionable items, like
gadgets, designer clothing, or luxury vehicles. These items often reflect their desire for status,
personal identity, or social acceptance. In contrast, older people tend to prefer expensive items that
signify long-term investments or practical comforts, such as property, fine jewellery, or even high-
quality furniture. Of course, there's overlap, but generally speaking, younger generations lean
towards what's trendy and exciting, while older generations prefer lasting quality and practicality.

Q. Do you think that people are more likely to buy expensive items for their friends or for
themselves?
Answer: Honestly, I'd have to say people are usually more likely to buy expensive items for
themselves rather than for friends. It's human nature; I suppose we tend to treat ourselves first,
especially after working hard or achieving personal goals. That said, when it comes to close
relationships or special occasions, people definitely won't hesitate to splurge on expensive gifts for
loved ones to show appreciation or celebrate milestones. So it really depends on the relationship and
occasion, but overall, self-purchases are probably more common.

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[Rich people]
Q. How difficult is it to become very rich in today's world?
Answer: To be honest, I'd say it's quite challenging to become very wealthy these days. There's
definitely fierce competition in virtually every industry, and success often requires not just hard work
and talent, but also connections, timing, and a bit of luck. However, with the rise of technology and
online platforms, there are also new opportunities like entrepreneurship, online businesses, or
investing, which weren't available in the past. Still, I'd say reaching the level of significant wealth
requires persistence, creativity, and the willingness to take calculated risks.

Q. Do you agree that money does not necessarily bring happiness?


Answer: Absolutely, I couldn't agree more. While money certainly provides comfort, security, and
convenience, it doesn't guarantee happiness or emotional fulfillment. I've seen people with plenty of
wealth who still struggle with loneliness or dissatisfaction, while others with less money seem
genuinely content and joyful. Happiness usually depends more on personal relationships, purpose in
life, and good health. So, although having money can certainly make life easier, it isn't the key
ingredient to lasting happiness.

Q. In what ways might rich people use their money to help society?
Answer: That's a really good question! There are plenty of ways wealthy people can contribute
positively to society. Many choose to donate to charities, funding education, healthcare, or
environmental conservation projects. Others establish foundations or scholarships, providing direct
support to individuals who might otherwise struggle to access resources. Additionally, rich people
can invest in sustainable businesses or initiatives that create jobs, benefit communities, and promote
economic growth. Ultimately, using wealth responsibly and compassionately can have lasting,
meaningful impacts on society.

IELTS Speaking Part 3 topic: Natural environment.

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1. Why is it important to protect the natural environment?


2. What environmental problems are common in your country?
3. What can the government in your country do to deal with those problems?
4. What technological innovations should the world develop to protect the environment?
5. Do you think the youth these days care about the environment? Why do you think so?
6. Environmental problems are too big to be dealt with at the individual level? Do you agree? [Why/
Why not?]

Q. 1. Why is it important to protect the natural environment?


Answer: The natural environment is probably the most important resource around us as it pretty
much protects and governs our lives by providing us with whatever we need to survive. It provides us
with food, water, oxygen, power, energy and many, many other things. It also helps us to live a
healthy life by clearing the pollution of our atmosphere. Finally, it is important to protect the natural
environment around us in order to maintain the biodiversity (having varieties of plants and animal
species) for the overall well-being of our planet. Our very existence in this world is dependent on the
natural environment we live in. So we should take every step possible to protect it for our own
survival.

Q. 2. What environmental problems are common in your country?


Answer: We have a number of common environmental problems in our country. To start with, a
certain part of my country is turning into a “semi-desert”, due to the lack of water, where
temperatures are rising. Besides, the number of forests, as well as the number of some rare species
of animals in them, is also getting reduced alarmingly, threatening to destroy the biodiversity of my
country. Finally, our lands and waters also are becoming increasingly polluted with plastic products
and other harmful substances because of the unavailability of proper waste disposal systems.

Q. 3. What can the government in your country do to deal with those problems?
Answer: The government can do plenty in my country to deal with these problems. First, they can
completely ban the use of plastic products and replace them with some environment-friendly
products. It can also offer some incentives for not using these harmful products. The government can
also take the necessary steps to plant more and more trees to make up for the loss of forests while
improving the waste disposal systems in order to reduce land and water pollution. However, it is also
important to understand that the government alone is not able to deal with these environmental
problems successfully unless it takes concrete steps to raise public awareness about the dangers of
environmental pollutions.

Q. 4. What technological innovations should the world develop to protect the environment?
Answer: Technology has fundamentally changed the way we live and work, and so, it is about time
that we develop and use technological innovations to protect our environment also. For example,
“advanced remote sensing technologies” can help us plan, monitor and evaluate the impacts of
building “extractive” industries, involving the “extraction” of raw materials from the earth, in the
ecologically-sensitive areas. In the same manner, “drone” technology can help us monitor the health
of our forests and wildlife in some remote and otherwise inaccessible areas. Finally, we can also use
AI (artificial intelligence) driven technologies to carry out our environmental conservation efforts by
having much more precise information on the extreme climate changes, affecting our earth’s
environment negatively.

Q. 5. Do you think the youth these days care about the environment? Why do you think so?
Answer: Yes, I believe young people today genuinely care about the environment. The reason is that
they're more aware of environmental issues than previous generations, thanks to social media and
education programmes highlighting climate change, pollution, and wildlife conservation. Many young
individuals actively participate in environmental movements, advocate for sustainable practices, and
try to live eco-friendly lifestyles, like recycling or reducing plastic use. While not everyone might be
equally involved, overall, I'd say today's youth are quite conscious of their environmental
responsibilities.

Alternative Answer: No, I don’t really think that the youth these days like to care about the
environment primarily because they are just too preoccupied with either enjoying the comforts and
luxuries of their lives or running to “acquire” them as if there is no tomorrow. In fact, the German
“Federal Office for the Environment” conducted a survey recently and found out that just 21 per cent
of 14 to 25 years old youngsters believed that an intact natural environment and the chance to enjoy
it were important parts of having a "good life". Besides, it is also possible that the electronic media,
along with the authorities, today are not exactly doing a good job in raising the awareness of taking
care of the environment among the youth.

Q. 6. Environmental problems are too big to be dealt with at the individual level? Do you agree?
[Why/Why not?]
Answer: Yes, I have no doubt in my mind that environmental problems are too big to deal with at the
individual level simply because they don’t have the required resources, knowledge and technologies
to solve problems of such big magnitudes. Besides, there is no boundary between our rivers, forests,
the earth’s atmosphere, as well as the air, we breathe. Therefore, no matter how hard, some
individuals, in some parts of a country or the world, are trying to clean up their “environment”, if it is
not “coincided” and “coordinated” with the others somewhere else, then the chances are that it is
doing no good. And, unfortunately, “coordination” is something which can’t be “enforced” without
the governments’ active involvement in such cases.

IELTS Speaking Part 3 Topic: Computer games & Technology in the classroom.

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[Discussion Topics: Computer games]


Q. What kinds of computer games do people play in your country?
Q. Why do people enjoy playing computer games?
Q. Do you think that all computer games should have a minimum age for players?

[Discussion Topics: Technology in the classroom]


Q. In what ways can technology in the classroom be helpful?
Q. Do you agree that students are often better at using technology than their teachers?
Q. Do you believe that computers will ever replace human teachers?

[Computer games]
Q. What kinds of computer games do people play in your country?
Answer: Oh, gaming is huge here! I'd say action and adventure games, especially multiplayer ones,
are extremely popular - things like Call of Duty or Fortnite are massive hits. Many people also enjoy
role-playing games and simulation games, since they offer immersive experiences. Of course, mobile
games like Candy Crush or Clash of Clans are widespread too, mainly because they're easy to access
and play casually anytime. So, basically, there's a game for every taste and preference here.

Q. Why do people enjoy playing computer games?


Answer: Well, I'd say there are several reasons for that. First off, games provide an escape from
everyday stress, letting people unwind and relax. They can also be really engaging and rewarding as
they hep us overcome challenges and levelling up feels satisfying. Another big reason is social
interaction; multiplayer games let friends or even strangers team up and communicate, creating a
sense of community. Plus, games are simply fun; the graphics, storytelling, and gameplay can be
incredibly captivating. So, it's easy to see why gaming is so appealing to many people.

Q. Do you think that all computer games should have a minimum age for players?
Answer: To be honest, I think having minimum age guidelines is really important, especially for
games with mature content or violence. Children might be affected negatively if exposed to
inappropriate themes too early. However, I don't think every single game needs strict age limits;
educational or harmless puzzle games, for example, are beneficial even for very young kids. So, I'd
say it's about carefully assessing each game's content and providing clear recommendations to help
parents make informed choices.

[Technology in the classroom]


Q. In what ways can technology in the classroom be helpful?
Answer: Oh, technology can be incredibly beneficial in education. For starters, it makes lessons more
interactive and engaging through multimedia presentations, videos, or interactive simulations. It also
provides instant access to vast information and resources online, making research and learning
easier and faster. Moreover, technology supports personalized learning, letting students learn at their
own pace and in ways that suit their individual styles. Honestly, when used thoughtfully, technology
can really enhance both teaching and learning experiences.

Q. Do you agree that students are often better at using technology than their teachers?
Answer: That's an interesting point, and generally speaking, I'd say "yes" - students often seem more
comfortable with technology because they've grown up with it. Younger generations tend to pick up
new devices or apps quickly since they're naturally curious and tech-savvy. However, I wouldn't
underestimate teachers; many educators actively keep up-to-date and become highly proficient
themselves. Still, it's true that students might often have the edge when it comes to rapidly adapting
to new technologies.

Q. Do you believe that computers will ever replace human teachers?


Answer: Honestly, I doubt computers could ever fully replace human teachers. Sure, technology can
deliver information and assist learning efficiently, but teaching involves much more than that. Human
teachers provide guidance, motivation, emotional support, and empathy, qualities that computers or
Artificial Intelligence just can't replicate. Teachers adapt to students' individual emotional and
academic needs, building relationships and trust, which greatly enhance learning. So, while
technology is a valuable tool, I firmly believe teachers will always be central to education.

IELTS Speaking Part 3 topic: Leadership and politics.

IELTS preparation bootcamps

1. Do you think people are born to be leaders? [Why/ Why not?]


2. Can leadership skills be taught? [Why/ Why not?]
3. Why are elected politicians often so unpopular?
4. What should a leader do to remain popular?
5. Do you think unelected heads of state are a good idea? [Why/ Why not?]
6. In your opinion what qualities a political leader should have?

Q. 1. Do you think people are born to be leaders? [Why/ Why not?]


Answer: No, I don’t really like to think that people are born to be leaders. Rather, leaders are made
by the circumstances one lives in as well as the people one likes to identify with. Of course, it takes
some special skills and “abilities”, which may or may not be inherited, to become leaders, but one
has to work really hard to master those ‘skills and abilities’. However, just mastering those skills and
abilities is not enough either as one would also need to put those skills and abilities to proper use in
order to overcome the right challenges at the right times to be considered a “leader”.
Alternative Answer: Well, I don't really think people are born as leaders, but rather leadership comes
from a combination of natural traits and experiences. Some people might naturally be confident or
charismatic, but to truly become an effective leader, they need to gain experience, learn from
challenges, and develop skills like decision-making and communication. So, I'd say leadership is
mostly developed over time rather than something people are born with.

Q. 2. Can leadership skills be taught? [Why/ Why not?]


Answer: Yes, I do think that “leadership” skills, just like any other skills, can be taught and learned
because “leaders” are not a different breed of people, nor are they “born” as leaders. However, the
difference between the “prospective” leaders and the others is that the prospective leaders make a
huge stride and are motivated to climb the ladder of success in order to help others and lead in an
organization where everybody else fails. Of course, some people have some natural leadership skills
and qualities, but it doesn’t necessarily mean that others can’t achieve them with hard work and
dedication.

Alternative Answer: Yes, I believe that leadership skills can be taught. For example, effective
communication, team-building, problem-solving, and decision-making are all skills that people can
learn through practice, guidance, and training. Of course, personal experiences and real-life
situations also play a key role, but formal training programmes can provide valuable knowledge and
tools for becoming a better leader.

Q. 3. Why are elected politicians often so unpopular?


Answer: Well, I can provide at least “millions” of reasons why many elected politicians are often so
unpopular! But, I will mention here only a few of them to save the so-called politicians some
“embarrassment”! Politicians are often so unpopular because they have some “unparalleled”
abilities to “lie” to their teeth as long as they are “awake”. Finally, they are often so despised because
they are “financially corrupted”, and they can go to any length in order to oppress the poor and
silence their “critiques”. They often fail to fulfil the promises they themselves make to ordinary
citizens and amass wealth in unfair ways. Once elected, these politicians forget their responsibilities
and exercise power for their own benefit while ignoring the well-being of the mass people.

Alternative Answer: I think elected politicians become unpopular mainly because they sometimes
don't fulfil promises made during elections or fail to meet people's expectations. When politicians
don't solve important problems like unemployment, healthcare, or housing issues, people get
frustrated. Also, politicians are often under public scrutiny, and their mistakes or wrong decisions are
highlighted in the media, which can quickly damage their reputations.

Q. 4. What should a leader do to remain popular?


Answer: Remaining popular for a leader is a very tricky business because the very reasons, for which
they are popular at a certain point of time, can make them unpopular at other times also. But,
generally speaking, a leader has to understand the ‘pulse’ of his or her supporters most of the time.
He also has to be honest about how he chooses to fight for the causes of his support base. Besides, a
leader has to make sure that he doesn’t earn his living by corruption or by “flexing” his muscles in
order to remain popular. Finally, a politician has to work really hard to deliver on his promises in
order to remain popular.

Alternative Answer: To remain popular, a leader should stay connected to the people and genuinely
understand their concerns. They should communicate openly and transparently about their
decisions, even if they make mistakes. Leaders also need to follow through on their promises and
show clear progress in areas people care about, like education, healthcare, and economic stability.
Above all, being honest, approachable, and committed earns people's trust and respect.

Q. 5. Do you think unelected heads of state are a good idea? [Why/ Why not?]
Answer: Honestly speaking, I really think that it is a great idea to put unelected officials as the heads
of the states as long as there is solid transparency and accountability. The election these days can be
rigged easily, and, as a result, it is very possible that the real “winners” or elected officials are not
exactly getting the chance to hold the office. However, it wouldn’t really be so bad itself if not so
much money and time were invested in holding these elections. Besides, in some “developing”
countries, we also witness a lot of violence during election times which can actually divide an entire
nation.

Alternative Answer: Personally, I don't think unelected heads of state are the best idea, because they
often lack accountability to the public. In democratic systems, the main advantage is that leaders can
be held responsible through elections. If the head of state is unelected, people can't easily replace
them if they're dissatisfied. That said, in certain constitutional monarchies, like Canada, an unelected
head of state can symbolize national unity without interfering in politics. But generally, elected
leaders seem more accountable and effective.

Q. 6. In your opinion what qualities a political leader should have?


Answer: In order to be a good political leader, a person has to have some common qualities which
may include patience, fairness, commitment, and good educational qualifications to understand the
different situation dynamics, and the ability to arouse the public passion in a positive way. Besides, a
political leader should also have the quality to connect with his supporters on the grassroots level so
that he is able to know what makes his supporters happy and what makes them unhappy. Finally, he
also has to be honest and dedicated to the causes of bringing solutions to the problems, not only for
his supporters but also for those people who don’t support him.

Alternative Answer: A political leader should have several important qualities. Firstly, integrity and
honesty are essential, because people need to trust their leaders. They should also be decisive and
able to handle difficult situations calmly. Communication skills are important so that leaders can
clearly share their ideas and connect with the public. Additionally, empathy and understanding the
needs of citizens help leaders make decisions that genuinely benefit society. Lastly, political leaders
should have vision and commitment, enabling them to inspire others and create positive changes.

IELTS Speaking Part 3 topic: Life experience.

IELTS preparation bootcamps

1. Do you agree that we learn best from our mistakes? [Why/ why not?]
2. What is the best way to gain experience in life? Why is it so?
3. Can we gain life experience from books and movies? [Why/ Why not?]
4. Which is more important, experience or potential? Why?
5. What experience do you wish you had gained? Why do you think so?
6. Why do some people fail to learn from their experience?

Q. 1. Do you agree that we learn best from our mistakes? [Why/ why not?]]
Answer: People say that the mistakes we make are our best teachers because they can teach us
many things. In fact, some of the most important life lessons, we would ever learn, will be from our
mistakes or bad decisions. So, I do agree with the suggestion that we learn best from our mistakes,
only if we choose to learn from them, by not committing the same mistakes in the future. However,
whether we learn best from our mistakes or not depends a lot on how much damage is inflicted
upon us. If we are made to “pay” very little or nothing for our mistakes, the chances are that we will
never learn from our mistakes.

Q. 2. What’s the best way to gain experience in life? Why is it so?


Answer: Well, in my opinion, the best way to gain experience is to do some experiment, and take
some calculated risks and random decisions even when we know that we would probably “fail” in
some real-life situations. And, as we make those little experimentations or make random decisions,
we can reflect on the outcomes or experiences, whether we fail or succeed, so that when we face
the same kinds of situation in the future, we exactly know from our previous experiences as to what
kinds of adjustment are needed, if any at all, in order to get the best possible results. If we never try,
we will never know what we are good at and without trying we can never gain any experience.

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Q. 3. Can we gain life experience from books and movies? [Why/ Why not?]
Answer: No, we can’t really gain life experiences from books and movies mainly because one
actually has to live through real-life situations in order to gain experience. No doubt that books and
movies can present some real stories and experiences of individuals in a very rational and realistic
manner except, of course, the problem is each and every person in this world is different with
different mindsets, skills, abilities and talents. Therefore, just because one individual experiences
something in a certain situation, it doesn’t necessarily mean that another person will experience the
same thing in the same manner.

Alternative Answer: Yes, I believe that we can gain life experience from books and movies, at least to
a certain extent. Although nothing can replace real-life experiences, books and movies often portray
realistic situations, human relationships, emotions, and dilemmas that we might encounter in life. By
watching or reading about characters facing different challenges, we can learn valuable lessons,
develop empathy, and gain new perspectives. Of course, these experiences are indirect, but they can
certainly help us prepare for or better understand our own real-life situations.

Q. 4. Which is more important, experience or potential? Why?


Answer: I would say that "experience" is more important than "potential" at any time of the day.
Having experience usually means that a person has a proven track record of getting things done.
Having experience, more often than not, makes somebody confident about doing something very
challenging in adverse conditions. Besides, having experiences helps somebody to make wise
decisions, especially when facing difficult choices. Finally, experience makes someone mature and
respected, and as a result, others around him feel confident enough to follow his lead. On the
contrary, the "potential" of a person is often unexplored and untested unless a really good mentor or
our confidence brings it to work.

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Q. 5. What experience do you wish you had gained? Why do you think so?
Answer: Well, I am lucky that I really have some great experiences in my life, but more is always
better. Isn’t it? So, sometimes, I really wish that I had the experience of travelling to at least five to six
countries from each continent in order to experience what this beautiful world has in store for us.
Besides, I also want to be able to write about my own travel experiences as well on my own website,
which I am planning to launch in the near future, in addition to the experiences of other travellers in
my country. Besides, I wish I were able to write the way some good writers can tell their stories.

Q. 6. Why do some people fail to learn from their experience?


Answer: Some people fail to learn from their experience probably because they are too arrogant to
understand they can also learn something, well, from “anything” or “anybody”. Then, there are some
other people who fail to learn from their experiences because the experiences are probably too
“embarrassing” for them sometimes, and as a result, they just don’t like to remember any part of it.
Finally, some people don’t learn from their experiences because they like to “justify” them, no
matter how “undesirable” the experiences really are, by essentially blaming others for their own
experiences and fate.

IELTS Speaking Part 3 Topic: Famous people today & Advantages of being famous.

IELTS preparation bootcamps

[Discussion topic: Famous people today]


Q. What kinds of people are most famous in your country today?
Q. Why are there so many stories about famous people in the news?
Q. Do you agree or disagree that many young people today want to be famous?

[Discussion topic: Advantages of being famous]


Q. Do you think it is easy for famous people to earn a lot of money?
Q. Why might famous people enjoy having fans?
Q. In what ways could famous people use their influence to do good things in the world?

[Famous people today]


Q. What kinds of people are most famous in your country today?
Answer: Well, I'd say entertainers and athletes usually top the list—actors, singers, and sports stars
often receive the most attention. Social media influencers and YouTubers are also gaining rapid
popularity these days, especially among young people. Additionally, some politicians and successful
business figures occasionally become quite famous, particularly when they're involved in high-profile
events or achievements.

Q. Why are there so many stories about famous people in the news?
Answer: Honestly, famous people attract audiences, which means higher viewership and more
revenue for media outlets. People have always been curious about the lives of celebrities and want
to learn more about what they wear, where they go, or who they're dating. Plus, stories about
famous individuals often provide a form of entertainment and distraction from everyday life, making
them consistently appealing to readers or viewers.

Q. Do you agree or disagree that many young people today want to be famous?
Answer: I completely agree. In fact, due to social media, fame has become more accessible than
ever, and many young people see it as a quick path to success, wealth, or validation. There's a strong
appeal in having lots of followers, receiving recognition, and living a glamorous lifestyle. However, I
think it’s important to understand that fame isn’t necessarily the same as lasting happiness or
genuine success.

[Advantages of being famous]


Q. Do you think it is easy for famous people to earn a lot of money?
Answer: Well, it's definitely easier for famous people to earn money compared to the average
person, especially through endorsements, sponsorship deals, or appearances. However, getting
famous in the first place often requires years of hard work, dedication, and sometimes a bit of luck.
Once they've reached fame, maintaining it also takes effort. So while making money might seem easy
once you're famous, getting there certainly isn't straightforward.

Q. Why might famous people enjoy having fans?


Answer: I'd say having fans provides a sense of validation and appreciation. Fans support their work,
celebrate their achievements, and often inspire famous people to keep doing what they love. The
positive feedback and admiration can be motivating and emotionally rewarding. Of course, the
support of fans can also translate into career success, stability, and continued opportunities, which is
something most famous people definitely appreciate.

Q. In what ways could famous people use their influence to do good things in the world?
Answer: Oh, there are so many ways! They can raise awareness about important social,
environmental, or political issues through their platforms and large audiences. Many famous
individuals support charities, launch fundraising campaigns, or even establish their own foundations.
Additionally, they can use their influence to inspire positive behaviour, like encouraging healthy
lifestyles, promoting education, or advocating for human rights. Ultimately, their public visibility
provides a powerful tool for driving meaningful and positive change in society.

IELTS Speaking Part 3 topic: Influence of television.

1. How popular is watching television in your country?


2. Tell me about the types of programmes that are generally on television in your country.
3. Why do people like watching television?
4. Which one do you think is better - state-owned or private television? [Why?]
5. What effects can watching television have on children?
6. How do

TV programmes differ now from that of 10 years ago?

Q. 1. How popular is watching television in your country?


Answer: Watching television is very popular in my country because it is one of the two major
traditional media (the other one is “movie theatres”) which offers entertainment to our people. In
fact, it is very hard to find a household in my country which doesn’t have at least one TV, if not more,
in it. Even stores, businesses, and offices in my country have

televisions so that people and workers get to enjoy some news and entertainment in order to relax a
little during their break times.

Q. 2. Tell me about the types of programmes that are generally on television in your country.
Answer: There are all kinds of programmes on television in my country which are watched fairly on a
regular basis. These programmes include hourly news programmes, political talk shows, musical
programmes, education quiz shows, movie shows, documentary programmes, magazine shows,
dance shows, cooking shows, drama serials, travel adventure programmes, sports shows, and
agricultural shows.

Q. 3. Why do people like watching television? Why?


Answer: People like to watch television because it helps them to unwind from a stressful day. It also
allows them to spend some quality time with their loved ones and families while watching some
entertaining and funny shows, sports and comedy movies, with them. People like to watch television
also because they want to remain informed about what’s happening in their parts of the world as
well as the rest of the world. Finally, they also want to educate themselves by watching some
educational programs in order to connect with the world on an intellectual level.

Q. 4. Which one do you think is better - state-owned or private television? Why?


Answer: I would say that state-owned television is better primarily because they have a more diverse
programme set in order to engage their audiences. Besides, state TV channels usually exercise better
caution and jurisprudence in airing “controversial” programmes so that they don’t spark any further
controversy. Finally, state TV is funded by the general public, and as a result, the programmes, it
usually broadcasts, are less biased and more objective (unless, of course, it is controlled by the
government for “propaganda” purposes) than private TV since it has to rely heavily on private
funding.

Alternative Answer: In my opinion, private television channels are definitely far better than state-
owned ones. The main reason is that private channels often have greater independence, allowing
them to present news and information from various perspectives without government interference.
They're usually more innovative and responsive to viewers' preferences because they're driven by
competition and the need for high-quality programming to attract audiences. Moreover, private
channels typically offer a wider range of entertainment options, catering to different tastes, while
state-owned TV can be quite limited or biased in comparison.

Q. 5. What effects can watching television have on children?


Answer: Television watching can affect children both negatively and positively. Talking about positive
effects - it entertains them and educates them by giving them a chance to learn about the world they
live in. Television watching can also expose children to new cultures and new ideas so that they learn
to respect and love others, no matter how different they really are. It is also beneficial for them to
learn a second language. However, television watching can also prevent children from enjoying
healthy activities like playing sports with their friends. As a result, they may end up becoming
“unsocial”. Besides, it also affects children’s studies, grades, behaviour patterns, sleep and weight in a
negative manner.

Q. 6. How do

TV programmes differ now from that of 10 years ago?


Answer: In my opinion, we certainly have more TV programmes today than that of 10 years ago, but
the overall quality of the programmes has gone down. TV programmes today focus more on
“glamour” and commercialization than the actual messages or substances than what it used to be 10
years ago. Finally, they also contain more “nudity”, “violence” and “vulgarity” than what we saw 10
years ago.

Alternative Answer: TV programmes today differ significantly from those of 10 years ago. One major
change is the shift toward streaming services like Netflix or Amazon Prime, allowing viewers to watch
shows at their convenience rather than at scheduled broadcast times. There's also a noticeable
improvement in quality and variety, with more diverse stories, better special effects, and production
values. Additionally, today's shows often focus on shorter, binge-worthy series rather than long,
drawn-out episodes. Reality TV and talent shows have also increased dramatically in popularity
compared to the past. Overall, TV has become more flexible, viewer-focused, and diverse.

IELTS Speaking Part 3 topic: Retirement and old age.

1. At what age should people retire from work? Why do you think so?
2. What problems can people face after their retirement?
3. How important are retirees to your country’s economy?
4. When should you start saving for retirement?
5. Why do some companies encourage early retirement?
6. Do you think the state should take responsibility for retirees who worked in private companies
rather than government organisations?

Q. 1. At what age should people retire from work? Why do you think so?
Answer: If it were me, I would choose to “retire” at an early age, with the required financial security
of course, primarily because it would allow me to do and enjoy the things when I would still remain
“healthy and active” both mentally and physically. Besides, the issue of the “retirement age”
becomes a bit irrelevant as long as someone is enjoying his or her work/ activities unless, of course, a
company or organization has a policy of enforcing a strict “deadline” for retirement. Anyway, ideally,
if a person enters his career at the age of 25 and spends his time wisely and efficiently, then he
should be good to “retire” at 50, which would allow him a good 10 years to enjoy his life before
starting to consider him as a “senior” citizen at an age of 60.

Q. 2. What problems can people face after their retirement?


Answer: It all depends on how people choose to face “retirement”. However, people usually face
two major problems after their retirement: one is related to “finance”, and the other one is “health”,
both physical and mental. We all know that once people retire, they usually struggle to meet their
financial needs since the source of a “steady” income dries up. Besides, they also suffer from health-
related issues because they become physically “old” and “inactive”. Now, of course, we can debate
whether one feels “old” because of becoming “physically inactive” or “physically inactive” because of
getting “old’, but one thing is for sure their “mental health” deteriorates rapidly because they feel
that they are not “useful” for their families and society anymore.

Q. 3. How important are retirees to your country’s economy?


Answer: Retirees are considered to be an important component of my country’s economy primarily
because they help keep our economy running by saving their money little by little which then, in
turn, gets used by our government for different kinds of development works. Besides, many retirees
in my country just don’t sit “idle”, and, instead, choose to use their wealth of past work experiences
to generate some income for themselves and their families which certainly contribute to the growth
of our economy. However, some will argue that retirees are some kind of “drag down” for our
economy because they collect money from the government, but they forget that it’s their money,
and the government is just supposed to “manage” them.

Q. 4. When should you start saving for retirement?


Answer: Well, the act of saving for retirement should start as soon as people start to earn, ideally
speaking of course. But, unfortunately, we are not exactly living in an ideal world where our all
financial needs are met just the way, we like. Therefore, saving, sometimes, can be the last thing in
our minds that we really worry about. Besides, when we are young, we tend to be “carefree”, and we
also want to enjoy our lives to the “fullest” by spending whatever money we have. As a result, we
can’t, more often than not, really save any money despite our best efforts and intentions when we
are young and “restless”. Nevertheless, saving should always be a priority for us, and as such, we
should get on it as soon as it is convenient for us.

Q. 5. Why do some companies encourage early retirement?


Answer: Some companies “encourage” early retirement for a number of reasons. For example, they
may want to make room for younger candidates with fresh and more dynamic ideas. Some
companies also would encourage early retirement because they want to cut costs by getting rid of
highly paid employees. Finally, some companies promote early retirement also because they have hit
their “financial goals” and they are not expecting any more growth for their companies. However,
these kinds of early retirement are not necessarily so bad because they usually involve good
“financial incentives”.

Q. 6. Do you think the state should take responsibility for retirees who worked in private
companies rather than government organisation?
Answer: Yes, the state should have a responsibility in taking care of retirees of the private companies
in some capacity primarily because they also contribute to the economy of a country. However, it
doesn’t necessarily mean that the private retirees are also “paid” by the government just like the
government retirees, but rather the government should extend its helping hands to private company
retirees also in order to ensure a “minimally secured financial future” for them should the private
companies fail to do so. After all, it is also the responsibility of the government to encourage, if not
“force”, the private companies to take care of their ‘retirees’ in whichever capacity they can afford.

IELTS Speaking Part 3 Topic: Creating a nice home & Different types of home.

[Discussion topic: Creating a nice home]


Q. Why do some people buy lots of things for their home?
Q. Do you think it is very expensive to make a home look nice?
Q. Why don't some people care about how their home looks?

[Discussion topic: Different types of home]


Q. In what ways is living in a flat/apartment better than living in a house?
Q. Do you think homes will look different in the future?
Q. Do you agree that the kinds of homes people prefer change as they get older?

[Creating a nice home]


Q. Why do some people buy lots of things for their home?
Answer: I think people buy many things for their homes mainly because they want their living space
to reflect their personality and tastes. Having a beautifully decorated home can bring comfort, pride,
and a sense of happiness. Additionally, some people enjoy regularly updating their home’s decor to
keep things fresh and interesting, especially if their home is also their primary space for socializing or
relaxing.
Q. Do you think it is very expensive to make a home look nice?
Answer: Not necessarily. While it's true that buying high-end furniture and decorations can be costly,
there are plenty of affordable ways to create a lovely home environment. Things like rearranging
existing furniture, painting walls, using plants, or adding affordable decorative pieces can significantly
improve a home's appearance without breaking the bank. Ultimately, creativity and careful planning
can go a long way in beautifying a home affordably.

Q. Why don't some people care about how their home looks?
Answer: Well, there could be several reasons for this. Some people might simply prioritize other
things, like their careers or hobbies, and don't find decorating particularly important or enjoyable.
Others may see their homes purely as functional spaces, not caring much about aesthetics. Financial
limitations or a busy lifestyle can also prevent individuals from dedicating time or resources to home
decoration. It's really a matter of personal preference and priorities.

[Different types of home]


Q. In what ways is living in a flat/apartment better than living in a house?
Answer: I'd say the main advantage of apartment living is convenience. Flats are usually centrally
located, offering easy access to shops, transport, and entertainment. They're typically easier to
maintain and clean due to their size, meaning residents spend less time and energy on upkeep
compared to houses. Residents often enjoy communal facilities like gyms, pools, or security services,
enhancing their lifestyle without extra costs or effort. Plus, apartments often promote a sense of
community because you regularly see neighbours, making social interactions easier. Another
significant advantage is that apartments generally have lower utility and energy costs, as heating or
cooling smaller spaces requires less energy, resulting in noticeable savings over time.

Q. Do you think homes will look different in the future?


Answer: Absolutely! I believe future homes will integrate more technology, becoming increasingly
"smart" and energy-efficient. They might include features like automated lighting, advanced security
systems, and even health-monitoring devices. Additionally, environmental concerns could influence
home design, leading to more sustainable, eco-friendly houses with renewable energy sources and
efficient use of space and resources.

Q. Do you agree that the kinds of homes people prefer change as they get older?
Answer: Definitely! When people are younger, they usually prefer homes in busy, vibrant locations
close to social activities or workplaces. As they get older, priorities often shift towards quieter
neighbourhoods, more spacious or comfortable homes, and convenience in terms of accessibility.
Older adults might favour homes requiring less maintenance, like apartments or single-level houses,
rather than large multi-story homes that involve more upkeep. So, preferences clearly evolve with
different life stages.

IELTS Speaking Part 3 topic: Photography.

1. Is it easy to take good photographs? [Why/ Why not?]


2. What are the pros and cons of digital photography?
3. Should people share their photographs online? [Why/ Why not?]
4. When can an image be worth a thousand words?
5. Is a photograph a reliable form of identification? [Why/ Why not?]
6. Is it necessary to take a course to become a good photographer? [Why/ Why not?]
Q. 1. Is it easy to take good photographs? [Why/ Why not?]
Answer: Well, from my own experience, I can say that it is never really easy to take good
photographs mainly because there are just so many things which come into play when trying to take
excellent photographs. In fact, one has to have perfect ideas about things like proper exposure,
building rapport with the subjects in order to find the perfect angle, lens focal length selection, the
right aperture white balance and composition, among other things, to take good photographs.
However, as if it is not already difficult enough, one also has to understand, what really works in
what situation, in order to take an excellent photo.

Q. 2. What are the pros and cons of digital photography?


Answer: Digital photography has become the norm today rather than the exception when capturing
any images, primarily because it offers better quality pictures. Besides, cost and times are also
significantly reduced when taking digital photographs as there are no film costs, no processing and
proof costs, and no unnecessary printing costs if not needed. So, the end result is an ‘instant’
opportunity to view pictures right after taking them. Finally, another great advantage of digital
photography is that one can have complete and instant control over the pictures, especially, if he/she
wants to edit them on a computer with some imaging software.

However, digital photography is not as good as film cameras in capturing motion. Besides, capturing
photos with a digital camera is generally easier, but doing anything with the photographs afterwards
almost always requires some computer or technological skills.

Q. 3. Should people share their photographs online? [Why/ Why not?]


Answer: No, I am not really very comfortable in sharing photographs online unless it is absolutely
necessary for official works mainly because they can be stolen and used by complete strangers for
nefarious purposes. Besides, pictures, taken by smartphones or other devices with GPS technology in
it, may contain tags which can reveal the exact location where the pictures were taken. In other
words, if a picture is shared online with such tags it is possible that others will know about his or her
location which is a violation of privacy. Having said that, a photo taken on a holiday could be shared
online with selected people but people should never share personal photos publicly which are
accessible by anyone from anywhere.

Q. 4. When can an image be worth a thousand words?


Answer: As humans, we are largely responsive to visual cues as they have the ability to make us feel
happy, sad, disgusted, excited and curious. So when we see a picture, which arouses these human
emotions, in order to convey some complex or unique messages and ideas, we say that an image is
worth a thousand words. Besides, there are some “truths” or “realities” which are just impossible to
describe no matter how many words we use; hence the phrase “a picture is worth a thousand
words”.

Q. 5. Is a photograph a reliable form of identification? [Why/ Why not?]


Answer: No, a photograph by itself is not a reliable form of identification unless it is attached with
some form of government-issued document. Even then, it may not be reliable enough to properly
identify a person simply because the facial features of a person, shown in the photograph, might just
look different from the features of the real person, as those facial features can change over time
because of the age or because of living under different conditions. Finally, in this era of Artificial
Intelligence, believing a picture to be real is not something any intelligent person would do.

Q. 6. Is it necessary to take a course to become a good photographer? [Why/ Why not?]


Answer: In my opinion, it is not exactly necessary to take a course to become a good photographer,
but it would certainly help if one chooses to take one in order to learn just the basics like camera
bodies, lenses, lighting and processing. However, if one really wants to be a good photographer, he
just needs to go out and take as many pictures as he likes. Then he also needs to look closely at his
own works and compare them with the styles of works, which he likes, in order to adapt to his own
methods accordingly.

IELTS Speaking Part 3 Topic: Science and the public & Scientific discoveries.

[Discussion topic: Science and the public]


Q. How interested are most people in your country in science?
Q. Why do you think children today might be better at science than their parents?
Q. How do you suggest the public can learn more about scientific developments?

[Discussion topic: Scientific discoveries]


Q. What do you think are the most important scientific discoveries in the last 100 years?
Q. Do you agree or disagree that there are no more major scientific discoveries left to make?
Q. Who should pay for scientific research — governments or private companies?

[Science and the public]


Q. How interested are most people in your country in science?
Answer: Well, I'd say interest in science varies quite a bit in my country. A lot of people, especially
younger generations, are fascinated by technology and space exploration, thanks largely to popular
media and social networks. However, some might find pure science topics a bit challenging or
abstract. Overall, there's definitely growing curiosity, particularly regarding topics like climate change,
health, and innovations, since these directly impact daily life.

Q. Why do you think children today might be better at science than their parents?
Answer: Oh, that's a good question and I have not really thought about it before. Well, I think
children today grow up with technology all around them, making them naturally more comfortable
with science-related concepts. Educational methods have also evolved, focusing more on hands-on
experiments and interactive learning, making science engaging and accessible to new generations.
Additionally, there's easier access to resources online, helping kids develop a deeper understanding
compared to previous generations, who might not have had the same level of exposure.

Q. How do you suggest the public can learn more about scientific developments?
Answer: Personally, I think accessible and engaging media like documentaries, podcasts, or online
videos that simplify complex scientific ideas can really help. Science museums and public lectures can
also spark people's interest. Additionally, schools could do more to promote lifelong curiosity in
science. Essentially, making science relatable and easy to understand encourages more people to
explore it further.

[Scientific discoveries]
Q. What do you think are the most important scientific discoveries in the last 100 years?
Answer: Wow, there have been so many! If I had to pick a few, I'd say the discovery of antibiotics is a
big one since it dramatically increased life expectancy. Also, technological advancements like the
internet and computers have completely reshaped our daily lives. The development of vaccines,
particularly recent advances like mRNA technology, has been critical in public health. Each of these
discoveries has profoundly influenced modern society, making our lives safer, longer, and more
connected.

Q. Do you agree or disagree that there are no more major scientific discoveries left to make?
Answer: Oh, I completely disagree with that idea! Science is constantly evolving, and there are still
countless mysteries to solve, especially in areas like space exploration, deep oceans, medicine, and
technology. In fact, every discovery often leads to new questions. I genuinely believe that we've only
scratched the surface of what's out there, so major scientific breakthroughs will definitely continue.

Q. Who should pay for scientific research — governments or private companies?


Answer: Honestly, I think both governments and private companies have important roles.
Governments should fund fundamental research that's essential but might not offer immediate
financial returns like environmental studies or space research. Private companies, on the other hand,
often fund research that directly impacts industries or products, driving innovation. A balance
between public funding and private investment probably works best, ensuring a broad range of
research continues effectively.

IELTS Speaking Part 3 topic: Gift.

1. What is the purpose of gift giving?


2. How has gift giving changed since your grandparents’ time?
3. How important is gift giving in a relationship?
4. What is more important when it comes to giving a gift, cost or effort? Why?
5. Do you think that people have become more materialistic when it comes to giving gifts, as
compared to your grandparents’ time?
6. How has modern technology changed the nature of gift giving? How?

Q. 1. What is the purpose of gift giving?


Answer: People love giving gifts primarily because it is just “customary” to give gifts in order to
celebrate on some occasions with their friends and family. However, on a deeper level, we give gifts
because it helps to create a stronger bond between the gift recipients and the persons, offering the
gifts, by showing their love and appreciation for each other’s valuable role and presence in their
lives. Besides, a person exchanges gifts with somebody also because it provides a tremendous
psychological boost to the recipient which, in turn, helps strengthen his/her resilience to cope with
the adverse moments of life.

Q. 2. How has gift giving changed since your grandparents’ time?


Answer: I would say that gift giving has changed since my grandparents’ time. Back in those days,
people used to give gifts mostly on some special occasions, such as birthdays and wedding
anniversaries, but today, one doesn’t really have to have an occasion for it. Besides, unlike in the
past, people today expect “personalised” gifts with some kind of thoughts behind them. Finally,
today we can choose a lot more things as gift items which we didn’t have in the days of our
grandparents.

Q. 3. How important is gift giving in a relationship?


Answer: I think that it is absolutely important to exchange gifts in a relationship between partners
because it would help cement and carry forward a healthy and loving relationship. Besides,
exchanging gifts is not just a simple gesture of appreciation, but giving the right gifts at the right time
also shows how much a person really cares for his/her partner or understands his or her partner.
Finally, when a relationship goes through some troubling times, a well-thought-out gift can go a long
way to repair the “damage” by bringing the partners closer to each other.

Q. 4. What is more important when it comes to giving a gift, cost or effort? Why?
Answer: In my opinion, the effort is more important than the cost when it comes to giving a gift. For
example, if a person chooses an expensive gift for his or her partner, but the partner doesn’t like it
because it just doesn’t go with their style or colour preferences, then the costly gift actually becomes
“useless”. On the other hand, if a person gives a lot of thought and time in choosing a gift in order to
make sure that they really understand what their partner likes or prefers, then the gift, no matter
how “cheap” it is, would surely go a long way to impress the partner.

Q. 5. Do you think that people have become more materialistic when it comes to giving gifts, as
compared to your grandparents’ time?
Answer: Yes, I would certainly like to think that people have become more materialistic, when it
comes to giving gifts, primarily because we are living in a very “materialistic” society. Besides, our
culture has grown more commercial, where “gift giving” – expensive gifts that is, has turned into a
booming industry. Finally, media these days also play a crucial role in fostering an “unrealistic”
expectation among people to buy “perfect gifts” without necessarily understanding the idea of a
“perfect gift”.

Q. 6. How has modern technology changed the nature of gift giving? How?
Answer: Modern technology, like the internet, e-commerce and online shopping, has revolutionized
the nature of gift giving by making it fast, affordable and convenient. In fact, we can choose the
perfect gifts for our loved ones for any occasion, even if they live in another corner of the world,
from the comfort of our homes on the internet and have them delivered to their doorsteps in hours,
if not any quicker! The best thing about this modern technology is that we can actually get opinions
on the “gift ideas”, before actually buying them, from our friends and families almost instantly
because we can send the ‘pictures’ to them through emails or messenger services. We can even send
someone a gift card so that the recipient can choose his/her own gift from a collection of items.

IELTS Speaking Part 3 topic: The internet and its impact on our social life.

1. What types of websites are popular among your generation?


2. Is using the internet a social or solitary activity? Why?
3. How has the internet changed social behaviour?
4. Should companies check job applicants’ online profiles? Why/ Why not?
5. What will be the next big development online?
6. How has the internet changed the way we communicate with others?

Q. 1. What types of websites are popular among your generation?


Answer: Being a person of the young generation, I would say that websites on news, job postings,
social networking, entertainment industry, sports and e-commerce are probably the most popular
among our generation. However, job sites probably would top them all because there is a huge
number of unemployed youth in my country, and they just like to surf through those websites in
order to improve their opportunities to land on a new job or a better job. E-commerce websites
don’t fall very far behind job sites because they also attract a lot of young visitors for obvious
reasons. Finally, social networking websites like Facebook and X (formerly Twitter) are hugely popular
among those youths.

Q. 2. Is using the internet a social or solitary activity? Why?


Answer: In my humble opinion, I would say that it is a solitary activity for many because people
don’t really need or are “required” to interact with other people in their society in order to use the
internet. Besides, when somebody is using the internet, he or she is usually busy finding some
information or looking at something on their screens. Therefore, even if there are other people
around him/her, he or she doesn’t exactly pay much attention to them in order to make it a “social”
thing. However, if we consider the purpose or function of social networking websites, they are often
meant to help us connect with more people and become more social by bringing friends and
relatives together and letting people find like-minded people over the internet so that they can meet
and work for a common cause.

Q. 3. How has the internet changed social behaviour?


Answer: The use of the internet has significantly changed our social behaviours and attitudes. Today,
we spend more time surfing the internet, talking with some people with probably some “false”
names on Facebook, Instagram and X (formerly Twitter), while completely forgetting to have even a
casual conversation with friends and families around us. As a result, we are “isolating” ourselves
more and more from the “realities” around us. Besides, since some people are glued to the internet
for long hours, they don’t really feel like going out to enjoy the normal things in life which is actually
causing “depression” among many internet users.

However, there is a completely different side of the use of the internet which connects friends and
relatives and gives people a common platform to raise their voice or share information for good. A
year ago, our local administrator decided to build a factory near our neighbourhood and many
people learned about it via the internet. They shared their thoughts and finally met to protest it
personally. I see this event as a great example of how the internet can strengthen our social
relationships and bring good things to society.

Q. 4. Should companies check job applicants’ online profiles? Why/ Why not?
Answer: Yes, I think that companies should check job applicants’ online profiles in order to get a
better understanding of the prospective applicants’ lifestyles and behaviour patterns. But, it is also
important for companies not to make any decisions, based solely on what they see or find on their
online profiles, simply because they may be just some of the “glimpse” of moments on some special
occasions. Besides, just because somebody does something on the internet (unless it is absolutely
stupid and offensive), it doesn’t necessarily mean that he or she will do the same thing at work.

Q. 5. What will be the next big development online?


Answer: I am not an internet or technology expert, but I think that the next big development online
will be the ability to connect computers, smartphones, TVs, fridges, and other electronic devices and
gadgets through cloud networks. Besides, I also think that all

televisions, computers and smartphones in the future will have an internet connection in them. In
other words, as soon as we power on these devices, the internet connection will be running
automatically in them without the need to do anything extra to connect to the internet. So who will
pay for the internet? Well, the companies, manufacturing these devices, will. Besides, AI (Artificial
Intelligence) will do most of the things for us like ordering items online for us or sending an email we
need to send.
Q. 6. How has the internet changed the way we communicate with others?
Answer: The internet has very significantly changed the way we communicate with others. In fact, it
has made communication easier and faster, especially, when sending or receiving a huge amount of
data and information. Besides, the internet has made communication very affordable as we can write
messages or letters as large as we can and then send them to our friends and families by using emails
without spending virtually anything. Finally, it has made communication very “personalized” also. In
fact, we can view anybody live on camera, while also talking to them at the same time, no matter if
we live a world apart from each other.

IELTS Speaking Part 3 Topic: Children and reading & Electronic books.

[Discussion topic: Children and reading]


Q. What are the most popular types of children's books in your country?
Q. What are the benefits of parents reading books to their children?
Q. Should parents always let children choose the books they read?

[Discussion topic: Electronic books]


Q. How popular are electronic books in your country?
Q. What are the advantages of parents reading electronic books (compared to printed books)?
Q. Will electronic books ever completely replace printed books in the future?

[Children and reading]


Q. What are the most popular types of children's books in your country?
Answer: In my country, storybooks featuring adventures, fantasy, and fairy tales are extremely
popular among children. Books with illustrations or interactive elements, such as pop-up books, also
captivate younger kids. Additionally, educational books that focus on science or nature presented in a
fun and engaging way tend to be well-loved, especially as they combine learning with enjoyment.

Q. What are the benefits of parents reading books to their children?


Answer: Oh, there are so many benefits! Reading together helps children develop their language
skills, vocabulary, and comprehension at an early age. It also strengthens the bond between parents
and children, providing valuable emotional connections and quality time. Additionally, it sparks
children's imagination and creativity, encouraging them to develop a lifelong love of reading and
learning.

Q. Should parents always let children choose the books they read?
Answer: I'd say parents should encourage their kids to choose books whenever possible because it
promotes independence and ensures the children are genuinely interested in the stories. However,
it's also important for parents to occasionally suggest or introduce books that children might not
discover by themselves, to expand their horizons and expose them to new topics or ideas. So, a
balanced approach usually works best.

[Electronic books]
Q. How popular are electronic books in your country?
Answer: Electronic books have definitely grown in popularity recently, mainly because they're
convenient and accessible. Many people enjoy reading on tablets or e-readers, especially when
commuting or travelling. However, printed books are still widely popular here, with many readers
preferring the traditional experience of physically holding a book. So, while e-books are increasingly
common, they haven't completely replaced printed books yet.

Q. What are the advantages of parents reading electronic books (compared to printed books)?
Answer: Well, electronic books offer several practical advantages. They're portable, making it easier
for parents to carry numerous books on a single device when travelling or away from home. E-books
also often include interactive features like audio narration, animations, and games, which can make
reading more engaging for children. Additionally, they're environmentally friendly, reducing the need
for paper and space at home.

Q. Will electronic books ever completely replace printed books in the future?
Answer: Honestly, I doubt electronic books will ever completely replace printed books. While e-
books offer convenience and technology-driven benefits, many people still enjoy the tangible
experience of reading printed books; the feel, smell, and visual appeal of printed books to be more
specific. Both formats have unique strengths, and I think they can continue to coexist, appealing to
different readers or different reading situations.

IELTS Speaking Part 3 Topic: Difficult jobs & Personal and career success.

[Discussion topic: Difficult jobs]


Q. What are the most difficult jobs that people do?
Q. Why do you think some people choose to do difficult jobs?
Q. Do you agree or disagree that all jobs are difficult sometimes?

[Discussion topic: Personal and career success]


Q. How important is it for everyone to have a goal in their personal life?
Q. Is it always necessary to work hard in order to achieve career success?
Q. Do you think that successful people are always happy people?

[Difficult jobs]
Q. What are the most difficult jobs that people do?
Answer: I'd say some of the most challenging jobs involve intense physical labour or emotional
stress, like healthcare professionals who handle life-and-death situations daily, firefighters who risk
their lives regularly, and manual labourers who work under harsh conditions. Additionally, jobs
involving high levels of responsibility, like airline pilots or emergency responders, can be mentally
exhausting due to constant pressure and critical decision-making.

Q. Why do you think some people choose to do difficult jobs?


Answer: That's a great question. I think many people choose challenging jobs because they find
purpose and meaning in what they do. For instance, someone might become a doctor or nurse
because they genuinely want to help others, despite the stress. Others might be drawn by personal
fulfillment, financial incentives, or the respect and admiration these roles often command in society.
Ultimately, it's about passion and a sense of duty or reward.

Q. Do you agree or disagree that all jobs are difficult sometimes?


Answer: Oh, I absolutely agree. Every job has its own challenges and no job is entirely stress-free or
easy all the time. Even roles that seem simple or enjoyable can involve tough moments, whether it's
dealing with tight deadlines, difficult people, or unforeseen problems. So yes, I'd say that all jobs
occasionally test our patience, skills, or resilience.

[Personal and career success]


Q. How important is it for everyone to have a goal in their personal life?
Answer: I'd say it's extremely important. Having clear goals gives people direction, motivation, and a
sense of purpose, making life feel meaningful and structured. Goals also provide a sense of
accomplishment when achieved, boosting confidence and happiness. Without clear goals, people
can feel lost or stuck in a routine, lacking fulfillment or personal growth.

Q. Is it always necessary to work hard in order to achieve career success?


Answer: Well, I'd say hard work is definitely a critical factor in career success, but it's not the only
one. Working smart, having clear goals, effective networking, and sometimes even luck can play
important roles. However, consistently putting in effort and perseverance usually sets the foundation
for achieving long-term success, regardless of your career path.

Q. Do you think that successful people are always happy people?


Answer: Not necessarily. Success doesn't automatically guarantee happiness. Some people may
achieve great success but still feel stressed, anxious, or unfulfilled due to pressures, expectations, or
personal sacrifices they've made along the way. On the other hand, others manage to balance their
success with personal fulfillment, leading genuinely happy lives. So, happiness depends more on
finding the right balance, fulfillment, and personal satisfaction rather than just external success.

Q. What do you think will be the future impact of technology on communication in the workplace?
Answer: I believe technology will continue to make workplace communication more efficient and
flexible. With advancements in AI and virtual collaboration tools, remote working will likely become
even more seamless. However, there might also be challenges, such as maintaining personal
connections or dealing with information overload. Finding a balance between digital communication
and human interaction will be key to fostering a productive work environment.

1. What types of sports are popular in your country? Why?


Answer: People in my country love all kinds of sports. However, sports like Football/soccer, cricket,
field hockey, volleyball, badminton and swimming are more popular in my country primarily because
there is no age bar or any other kind of restriction on anybody for taking part in these sports.
Besides, playing these sports involves very little cost, if any at all, and as a result, people can play
these sports easily. Finally, successful sportspersons, taking part in these games, generally enjoy a
very “glamorous” life in my country which acts as a motivating factor for their fans to watch and play
these games even more.

IELTS mentorship program

2. What are the benefits of playing a sport?


Answer: Depending on what type of sports one plays, there are several benefits of playing sports. For
example, if one plays sports like soccer and cricket, which require a high degree of physical activity,
they will help one to remain physically fit and healthy by reducing the possibility of having obesity,
heart disease, cancer and other life-threatening illnesses. Besides, these sports also help people to
get rid of depression and other mental illnesses. Finally, game, like “chess”, stimulates the brain
which is really good for developing our memories.
3. Do you often play a sport? Why/ why not?
Answer: Yes, I do like to play soccer whenever I get a chance, especially during the weekend, because
it helps me stay fit and healthy, especially when I gain a bit extra weight for my age. Besides, it helps
me rewind from the monotonous and hectic schedule of my daily life. On top of that, playing soccer
also allows me to socialize with my friends outside of my work life and have some fun with them.
And, all these, when put together, help me remain confident and competitive in this modern, tough
and complicated world.

Best video game consoles

4. Do you think the types of sports that are popular will change in the future?
Answer: Yes, it is very possible that the types of sports, that are popular today, will change in the
future mainly because we will become even busier with our work, and our priorities most likely
would change with it as well in the process. So, the chances are that we will probably play only those
sports which require very little time. Besides, the chances are that those sports (ie. video games and

computer games), which we are able to play at home with our families, will also become popular in
the future. Finally, more and more sponsors and businesses would try to make other forms of sports
popular because of more financial gains.

Best video game consoles

5. How can sports bring people from different countries closer together?
Answer: Sports play an important role in bringing people from different countries together by
organizing different forms of international sports tournaments so that teams from those countries
can learn about each other and become each other’s friends in the process of playing against each
other, but that’s only a part of it. Sports also bring the supporters of one particular country closer to
another country because they happen to love the team or certain players of that country due to their
great performance on the field.

6. Why are some international sports more popular than others?


Answer: Some international sports are more popular than others because of their long history in our
countries as well as because they are more intricately ingrained into our cultures than other
international sports. Besides, some sports are not just given the chance to truly shine and show what
they are capable of simply because they are perceived to be “not as exciting as others”. Finally, it is so
also because the businesses and sponsors keep promoting and “patronizing” certain sports over
others purely because of additional financial gains.

IELTS Speaking Part 3 Topic: Shopping online & Online retail businesses.

IELTS mentorship program

[Discussion topic: Shopping online]


Q. What kinds of things do people in your country often buy from online shops?
Q. Why has online shopping become so popular in many countries?
Q. What are some possible disadvantages of buying things from online shops?

[Discussion topic: Online retail businesses]


Q. Do you agree that the prices of all goods should be lower on internet shopping sites than in
shops?
Q. Will large shopping malls continue to be popular, despite the growth of internet shopping?
Q. Do you think that some businesses (e.g. banks and travel agents) will only operate online in the
future?

[Shopping online]
Q. What kinds of things do people in your country often buy from online shops?
Answer: Well, I would say people buy a wide range of items online. Clothing and electronics are
probably the most popular, as online stores often offer more variety and better prices compared to
physical shops. Besides that, groceries, food, household items, and beauty products have also
become quite common online purchases, especially since many people find it more convenient to
have them delivered to their doorstep.

Q. Why has online shopping become so popular in many countries?


Answer: I think the primary reason is convenience. You can shop from the comfort of your home at
any time, avoiding crowded stores and long queues. Online shopping also offers a broader selection
of products, often at competitive prices, and allows you to easily compare options. Additionally,
many platforms offer customer reviews, which help shoppers make more informed decisions. All
these factors make online shopping incredibly appealing to modern consumers.

Q. What are some possible disadvantages of buying things from online shops?
Answer: Well, one downside is the lack of a physical experience is that you can't touch or try items
before purchasing, which can be problematic with clothes or gadgets. There's also the risk of
receiving defective or counterfeit products. Plus, delivery delays or issues with returns can be
frustrating. Security concerns, like data breaches or online scams, are also a major drawback for
some shoppers.

[Online retail businesses]


Q. Do you agree that the prices of all goods should be lower on internet shopping sites than in
shops?
Answer: Not necessarily. While it's true that online retailers often save on overhead costs and can
offer lower prices, not all products should automatically be cheaper online. Some high-quality or
niche products may still justify a higher price regardless of the selling platform. Moreover, factors like
shipping fees and import taxes can make online purchases more expensive. I think the focus should
be on fair pricing rather than assuming that online equals cheaper.

Q. Will large shopping malls continue to be popular, despite the growth of internet shopping?
Answer: I believe they will remain popular, but their role might evolve. Shopping malls are not just
about buying things, they're also social hubs where people dine, watch movies or hang out with
friends. While online shopping is convenient, the experience of physically exploring a mall and
interacting with products is something that many people still enjoy. So, I think malls will continue to
attract visitors, although they may focus more on offering unique experiences rather than just retail.

Online movie streaming services

Q. Do you think that some businesses (e.g. banks and travel agents) will only operate online in the
future?
Answer: Yes, I can see that happening. Many services, like banking and travel bookings, are already
predominantly online, and the trend seems to be growing. It makes sense from a cost and
convenience perspective, both for businesses and customers. However, there will likely still be some
physical branches for those who prefer face-to-face interactions or need assistance with more
complex matters. So, while many businesses may go fully digital, a hybrid model could be the norm
for a while.

IELTS Speaking Part 3 topic: Advertising.

IELTS mentorship program

1. What makes an advertisement effective?


2. What is the purpose of advertising?
3. How have advertisements changed since you were a child?
4. What are the advantages and disadvantages of advertising?
5. Do you think that advertisements should be strictly regulated?
6. How important is it for advertisers to tell the whole truth in advertisements?

1. What makes an advertisement effective?


Answer: There are a number of facts that make an advertisement effective. To begin with, the
advertisement for a particular product has to be absolutely relevant and specific in its message while
also describing at the same time what exactly sets the product apart from others in terms of its
benefits. Besides, for an advertisement to be effective, the language or the wording has to be unique
to the target audience, based on their age, gender, race, culture, religion and geographic location.
Finally, the advertisement should include a clear “call for action” such as asking to buy the product or
contact.

2. What is the purpose of advertising?


Answer: For a given market segment, there are six main purposes of an advertisement, which
include informing the consumers about a certain product and convincing customers, changing the
belief about a certain brand, enhancing the image of the company, pointing out and creating a need
for products or services, generating new direct sales and announce new products and programmes.
Some advertisements may also want to demonstrate new uses for established products and send a
reminder to use an existing product.

3. How have advertisements changed since you were a child?


Answer: Advertisements have changed significantly over the years since I was a child. For a starter,
when I was a child, if I remember correctly, there were only radio, TV and print media to show us
advertisements, but today there are

computers, smartphones, Facebook, X and Instagram also on which advertisements are being
displayed continuously. We can also see billboards, neon signs, and other vibrant and visually
captivating printed designs, that are placed at strategic locations with high volumes of human traffic,
which were not seen when I was a child.

4. What are the advantages and disadvantages of advertising?


Answer: The main advantage of advertising is that it allows us to learn about new products and
services that we may need badly. Advertising also helps us compare different kinds of products, in
terms of their costs and qualities, so that we can make an informed decision when making a
purchase.

The main disadvantage of advertising that I think of is that it increases the cost of the products
because it costs to advertise and the companies pass the advertising cost to be picked up by the
customers. They sometimes mislead the customers because not all the products, that are advertised,
are good for them.

5. Do you think that advertisements should be strictly regulated?


Answer: Yes, I do think that advertisements should be strictly regulated because, without it,
misleading information on the products will keep deceiving the customers into buying wrong and
defective products. Besides, without strict regulation, bigger companies will always have undue
advantages, because of their higher budget for advertisements, over the smaller and local
manufacturers/companies even though the products of “bigger” companies are of inferior quality to
those of smaller companies. In other words, advertisement kills competition and gives larger
companies an unfair advantage over smaller companies.

6. How important is it for advertisers to tell the whole truth in advertisements?


Answer: It is absolutely important for advertisers to tell the whole truth in advertisements for trust
issues. Advertisers should tell customers exactly what they are buying or getting because if there is a
discrepancy between the expectations of the customers and what the advertisers advertise, then the
trust would be lost, and the customers most likely would never come back to buy the same products
again in the future. Besides, some customers may also go as far as “suing” the company, if they think
that they are lied to, which certainly is not good for the lasting image of a company.

IELTS Speaking Part 3 Topic: Technology and education & Technology and society.

IELTS mentorship program

[Discussion topic: Technology and education]

Q. What is the best age for children to start

computer lessons?
Q. Do you think that schools should use more technology to help children learn?
Q. Do you agree or disagree that computers will replace teachers one day?

[Discussion topic: Technology and society]

Q. How much has technology improved how we communicate with each other?
Q. Do you agree that there are still many more major technological innovations to be made?
Q. Could you suggest some reasons why some people are deciding to reduce their use of
technology?

[Technology and education]


Q. What is the best age for children to start computer lessons?
Answer: Well, I believe introducing children to basic computer skills around the age of six or seven is
quite reasonable. At this age, they have developed basic reading and writing abilities, which help
them follow instructions and understand simple tasks. Starting early with fundamental skills like
typing, basic coding, or using educational apps can be beneficial, as long as lessons are age-
appropriate and balanced with non-digital activities.

Q. Do you think that schools should use more technology to help children learn?
Answer: Yes, I think integrating technology into education can make learning more interactive and
engaging. For example, using tablets or smartboards can bring subjects like science or history to life
through videos and simulations. However, it's essential to strike a balance and ensure that
technology complements traditional teaching methods rather than replacing them. Effective use of
technology can enhance creativity, problem-solving skills, and digital literacy.

Q. Do you agree or disagree that

computers will replace teachers one day?


Answer: I totally disagree with this proposition. While computers and AI can certainly assist in
education by providing information and automating repetitive tasks, they can't replace the human
aspect of teaching. Teachers play a vital role in mentoring, motivating, and understanding students'
individual needs. Emotional support, encouragement, and adapting lessons to suit different learning
styles are aspects that technology simply can't replicate. So, while tech will continue to be an
invaluable tool, teachers will remain irreplaceable.

[Technology and society]


Q. How much has technology improved how we communicate with each other?
Answer: I believe, technology has revolutionized communication! Nowadays, we can connect with
people across the globe instantly through video calls, social media, or messaging apps. This was
unimaginable a few decades ago. It has made keeping in touch with family, friends, or colleagues
much more accessible and convenient. However, some might argue that face-to-face interactions
have diminished, but overall, technology has undoubtedly made communication faster and more
efficient.

Q. Do you agree that there are still many more major technological innovations to be made?
Answer: Absolutely, I believe the pace of technological innovation will only accelerate. Areas like
artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and space exploration still hold immense potential for
groundbreaking discoveries. For instance, AI-driven healthcare solutions and sustainable energy
technologies are likely to transform our lives even further. We’ve come a long way, but I think we’re
only just beginning to see what technology can achieve.

Q. Could you suggest some reasons why some people are deciding to reduce their use of
technology?
Answer: That's an interesting point. I think people are becoming more aware of the negative impacts
of excessive screen time, like eye strain, poor sleep, and reduced social interactions. Additionally,
constant connectivity can lead to stress or anxiety, especially with the pressure to stay updated. As a
result, some individuals are consciously trying to disconnect and focus on face-to-face interactions or
outdoor activities to maintain a healthier lifestyle.

IELTS Speaking Part 3 topic: Childhood memory.

1. Is it important to have pleasant childhood memories? Why?


2. Do you think that people are permanently affected by negative childhood memories? Why do you
think so?
3. What do you think it means to ‘live in the past’?
4. Nowadays many parents try to make their children happy by buying them many toys. How do you
feel about this?
5. Is it important for a child to have a lot of toys in order to be happy?
6. What is more important for a child’s happiness, many toys or many friends?

1. Is it important to have pleasant childhood memories? Why?


Answer: It is absolutely important to have pleasant childhood memories because, without them,
negativity will creep up into our lives when we grow up to become adults. In fact, without pleasant
childhood memories, we would develop mistrust, a sense of unnecessary shame, doubt and guilt, a
sense of inferiority, and confusion about playing a proper social role in the community in our lives
while most likely remaining isolated also from the fun and productive activities. Childhood memories
often make or break our future life and that is why it is imperative to have a pleasant childhood and
positive memories associated with it.

2. Do you think that people are permanently affected by negative childhood memories? Why do
you think so?
Answer: Negative childhood memories have some impacts on our future but I don’t think that
people are permanently affected by negative childhood memories just as they aren’t by positive
memories because if they did affect us, it would be very difficult for us to make decisions quickly, and
we would always carry a huge load of the complex emotional bag on our back to be “functional”.
Besides, the fact, that we are able to treat some of our mental illnesses (which are essentially
nothing but a collection of negative memories from our past childhood sometimes) with
“psychiatric” treatments, proves to us that people aren’t affected by childhood memories
permanently. If we were enduringly affected by our negative experiences in childhood, it would have
been quite impossible for us to carry on as adults.

3. What do you think it means to ‘live in the past’?


Answer: “Memories” are lifetime things that remain with us for the rest of our lives, and when we
think and talk about these memories by forgetting about the normal activities of our lives, we call it
“living in the past”. Of course, “living in the past” is not that bad when cling to the “pleasant”
memories because they sometimes motivate us to have positive views about life, but if we cling to
the “unpleasant or negative” memories most of the time, we become depressed and find it really
hard to enjoy the “normal” things in our lives.

4. Nowadays many parents try to make their children happy by buying them many toys. How do
you feel about this?
Answer: Generally speaking, it makes me feel good when I see that parents are buying their children
many toys in order to make them happy because it helps create “good memories” in the minds of the
children. Besides, the practice also helps create a stronger bond between the parents and their
children. However, while the practice of buying many toys may seem to be an “innocent” act in
isolation, parents would do good on their parts if they also care to teach their children sometimes
not to get “mad or unhappy”, when they (the children) don’t receive something they really like, in
order to help children understand the “realities” of life.

5. Is it important for a child to have a lot of toys in order to be happy?


Answer: No, it is not important for a child to have a “lot” (because this is the “keyword” here) of toys
in order to become happy as long as they are taught what it really means to be “happy”. If the
children are taught that “real happiness” lies in celebrating life and many of its occasions without
receiving any “material” things in return, then the chances are that they wouldn’t exactly dig too
much into the idea of receiving a “lot” of gifts to become happy. Besides, children are “innocent”
minded, so if they are treated with genuine love and care, they wouldn’t really mind too much about
the “number” of toys they are getting.
6. What is more important for a child’s happiness, many toys or many friends?
Answer: A child needs both toys and friends to become happy in his or her life, but they certainly
don’t need “many” of either of them. Contrary to popular belief, I really like to think that children are
“rational”, and they don’t exactly care to understand the complicated issue of “being happy”. Rather,
all the children care about is to “enjoy and have fun” in their lives whether they get them from
playing with their friends or by playing with their toys.

IELTS Speaking Part 3 Topic: The internet & Social media websites.

[Discussion topic: The internet]

Q. Why do some people find the internet addictive?


Q. What would the world be like without the internet?
Q. Do you think that the way people use the internet may change in the future?

[Discussion topic: Social media websites]

Q. What are the ways that social media can be used for positive purposes?
Q. Why do some individuals post highly negative comments about other people on social media?
Q. Do you think that companies' main form of advertising will be via social media in the future?

[The internet]
Q. Why do some people find the internet addictive?
Answer: Well, the internet can be addictive because it offers endless content and instant
gratification. Whether it's social media notifications, short videos, online games, or streaming
platforms, people can easily get drawn into spending more time online than they initially intended.
The feeling of constant connectivity and the fear of missing out also play significant roles in internet
addiction. Additionally, the internet provides an escape from real-world stress, which can make it
even more appealing.

Q. What would the world be like without the internet?


Answer: Honestly, it would be quite a different place! Without the internet, communication would
slow down significantly, and people would rely more on traditional methods like phone calls and
face-to-face meetings. Access to information would be limited, affecting education, business, and
daily life. Social interactions would also change, as people would spend more time engaging directly
with those around them. While some might find it refreshing, others would struggle without the
convenience and connectivity the internet provides.

Q. Do you think that the way people use the internet may change in the future?
Answer: Absolutely, I believe the way we use the internet will continue to evolve. With the rise of
artificial intelligence and virtual reality, people might start interacting more through immersive
online environments rather than just browsing websites or apps. Privacy concerns may also prompt
users to be more cautious about sharing personal information. Additionally, as technology advances,
the internet could become even more integrated into our daily lives, blending seamlessly with
physical environments through smart devices.

[Social media websites]


Q. What are the ways that social media can be used for positive purposes?
Answer: Social media has immense potential for positive impact. It can be used to raise awareness
about important social issues, promote charitable causes, and connect people from diverse
backgrounds. Additionally, it allows businesses to reach customers directly and build communities
around their brands. Educational content shared on social media platforms also helps users learn
new skills or stay informed about global events. So, when used responsibly, social media can
definitely make a positive difference.

Q. Why do some individuals post highly negative comments about other people on social media?
Answer: Unfortunately, the anonymity of social media can encourage some people to express
opinions without considering the consequences. This sense of detachment makes it easier to post
hurtful or negative comments. Additionally, some individuals use social media as an outlet for their
frustrations or insecurities. In other cases, they may be seeking attention or trying to provoke a
reaction. It’s a complex issue, but I think the lack of accountability plays a major role.

Q. Do you think that companies' main form of advertising will be via social media in the future?
Answer: Yes, I believe so. Social media platforms already dominate digital marketing because they
offer targeted advertising based on user data. As more people spend time on social media,
companies naturally see it as an effective way to reach potential customers. Plus, the interactive and
engaging nature of social media content like videos, stories, and influencer collaborations makes it
ideal for modern marketing strategies. I think traditional advertising methods will continue to decline
as social media takes centre stage.

IELTS Speaking Part 3 topic: Photography.

1. What are the advantages and disadvantages of taking photographs?


2. How has modern technology changed the way we take photographs?
3. How has sharing photographs changed since your grandparents’ time?
4. How well do photographs capture special moments?
5. Do you think that people nowadays spend too much time taking photographs?
6. Why do you think people photograph themselves?

1. What are the advantages and disadvantages of taking photographs?


Answer: The primary advantage of taking photographs is that it helps us preserve the memories of
both our good times and “not-so” good times. By taking photographs, we can also establish a truth,
especially, in situations where people are “maligned” unfairly. Besides, when choosing it as a
“hobby”, we can always enjoy having a good time with our cameras by taking pictures of different
“good” things randomly that we really like.

Among the disadvantages, sometimes, you might get so obsessed with photography that you forget
to live and enjoy your life in the present moment. Besides, depending on the photographs in order to
get the whole picture about a person or a situation can be misleading at times.

2. How has modern technology changed the way we take photographs?


Answer: Technology, especially in the form of digital photography, has made taking photographs
easier today than at any other time in the history of photography. With the digital camera, today we
have more opportunities to take photos from any location, distance and angle, take as many photos
as we want, view them instantly, process them and then share them more quickly and efficiently
than ever before. Besides, because of technology, messy and unnecessary paper prints are becoming
more and more obsolete as there are many other ways to view photographs today.

3. How has sharing photographs changed since your grandparents’ time?


Answer: Photograph sharing has changed very significantly since our grandparents’ time for the
better, of course. Back in our grandparents’ time, we used to rely either on postal mail or other forms
of “human courier” which would take days and weeks to share the photographs, sometimes
damaged because of bad weather, with our families and loved ones. But, today, we can share our
pictures “intact” with anybody in the world in the blink of an eye, courtesy of the internet and

computer technology. Besides, unlike during our grandparents’ time, we save our photographs on

computers and “cloud servers”.

4. How well do photographs capture special moments?


Answer: How well photographs capture special moments entirely depends on the skill level of the
photographers as well as the “environment” in which the photographs are being taken. However,
with the digital technologies, we have today, as well as with the many advanced university
photography courses, it is fair to assume that photographs manage to capture special moments
rather nicely. And, its proofs can be found in many “extraordinary” photographs that we see today in
our daily life on different print media and picture galleries. People who are on the photo or had been
present in an event where the photographs were taken can get back to the memory lane and cherish
the moment once more.

5. Do you think that people nowadays spend too much time taking photographs? Why?
Answer: If you are asking about the ‘social media’ generation, who are using Facebook, X and
Instagram pretty much 24/7, then the answer is that they do spend a lot of time taking photographs
of virtually anything and everything in order to share them with their friends and families on the
internet. But, outside of this social media generation who are glued to the internet 24/7, I don’t
really see that many people are spending much time taking photographs unless, of course, there is a
very valid reason to do so.

6. Why do you think people photograph themselves?


Answer: Well, people choose to photograph themselves for several reasons. First, they probably
can’t really rely on the “skills” of other people as they believe in their own skills. Secondly, taking
photographs of one’s own has become really, really easy with smartphones and other advanced
digital cameras and "selfie" is a modern craze popular among the young generation. Finally, some
people photograph themselves because they don’t have any other people or expert photographers
around them to take their pictures at some special moments.

IELTS Speaking Part 3 topic: Inventions and copyrights.

1. Which invention has transformed your country most? How?


2. What inspires some people to be inventors?
3. How long should someone be able to profit from an idea? Why?
4. Do you think intellectual property laws are too strict? Why do you think that is?
5. What is your opinion about the copyright of an intellectual property and idea?
6. Can you cite one example when you noticed a copyright violation? What was it?
1. Which invention has transformed your country most? How?
Answer: In my opinion, the invention of computer technologies has transformed my country the
most, first, by changing the mindsets of millions of young people where they think that they are able
to do anything to improve their lives. In fact, today we can see that a huge number of educated
youth and professionals are working with computers in one way or another who otherwise would
have remained “unemployed”. Secondly, computer technologies have automated many offices and
workplaces in my country which, in turn, certainly has helped in increased productivity and efficiency
of our workers.

2. What inspires some people to be inventors?


Answer: I think that primarily three factors drive people to be inventors. One of those factors is that
some people want to become inventors because they genuinely want to help people and improve
their lives in one way or another. Then the second factor is that some people see an opportunity to
invent something because that would allow them to make a huge profit financially. Finally, there is
another group of people who like to be inventors because that’s just their hobby, or they just like to
experiment with their certain skills and talents.

3. How long should someone be able to profit from an idea? Why?


Answer: In my opinion, one should be able to profit from an idea as long as the common people
receive the benefits from it. But, in reality, it doesn’t happen because different countries around the
world have different patent rules (legal protection for the “inventor” or “the idea”). For example, the
USA grants a 20-year “patent” while the UK has about 4 years. But, that’s just one side of the story
because a patent does not automatically grant the patent owners any right to make their own
inventions. Rather, the patent just gives the “owner of the idea” the right to exclude others from
making, using, selling, or importing the invention. In other words, the “inventor” or the “owner of
the idea” actually may not get any profit at all from his or her idea if it doesn’t gain any “traction”,
and if nobody is willing to use his/her ideas.

4. Do you think intellectual property laws are too strict? Why do you think that is?
Answer: Yes, I do think that sometimes intellectual property laws are too strict because most of the
copyright laws aren’t exactly aimed at protecting the profit of the person, owning the work, but
rather, the laws have become obsessed with the "rights" to show the copyrighted work in situations
where it has very little or no effect on the sales and profit of the owner of the copyrighted work.

I think, most of the copyright laws for intellectual properties need an amendment to make it more
practical and modern.

5. What is your opinion about the copyright of an intellectual property and idea?
Answer: In my opinion, there should be copyright laws for intellectual property and ideas in order to
protect the interests of companies and organizations. However, it should also be said at the same
time that most of the copyright and intellectual property laws are generally written by lobbyists of
major companies and organizations without thinking about the interests of the common public in
most cases. Besides, in my opinion, copyrights should be valid for a much shorter period of time for
the purpose of encouraging “fair competition”.

6. Can you cite one example when you noticed a copyright violation? What was it?
Answer: Yes, I have noticed a number of examples where copyright violations have occurred. For
example, incidents like downloading music online is a copyright rule violations and they harm the
music recording companies financially. Similarly, I have also found that people are using the
copyrighted images of other individuals and companies without their permission. Finally, I have also
found some fake companies in my country producing some products without the knowledge of the
original companies or any legal authority.

IELTS Speaking Part 3 topic: Leisure activities.

1. What types of leisure activities are popular in your country?


2. Why it is important for people to have leisure activities?
3. Why are some leisure activities more popular than others?
4. Do you think that parents should choose leisure activities for their children? Why/Why not?
5. Has free time activities among people in your country changed much than that of 2 decades ago?
6. What changes do you think technology has brought in the way people enjoy their leisure
activities?

1. What types of leisure activities are popular in your country?


Answer: Well, the leisure and recreational activities in my country greatly vary based on the age
group, economic and employment status, gender and location of people. However, watching TV,
surfing the internet, walking in the park, reading daily newspapers and participating in sports like
cricket and football are some very common pastime activities of the people in my country.

To be more specific, young people mostly like to watch TV programmes, use the internet and social
networking sites, play

computer games, and play outdoor sports while adults most of the time Watch TV, walk in the park
and read newspapers. The choices of hobbies and leisure activities are quite different between city
dwellers and villagers. For instance, a teenage boy in a city would mostly play a video game or chat
with friends online in his free time, a teenager in a rural area, on the contrary, would be busy fishing
or playing outdoor games.

How these activities vary is quite noticeable in our country. Even I can feel it by just looking at the
different members of my family. While my younger brother loves to travel, my elder brother plays
cricket. Two of my cousins collect stamps and coins while I mostly read books and magazines. My
parents walk in the park and other family members mostly enjoy movies and other TV programmes.

2. Why it is important for people to have leisure activities?


Answer: I believe that leisure activities are quite important for us as these activities often define who
we are, what we like and how we choose to spend our time. Furthermore, these activities refresh our
minds, motivate us and help us reinvent ourselves. For instance, one of my cousins started taking
painting classes as his hobby a few years back. Initially, it was a simple pastime activity. Later on, he
became really passionate about it, and now he is a full-time artist. This is a real-life example of how a
simple leisure activity can help us re-explore our hidden talent and passion.

Humans, physically and psychologically, are not prepared to work or stay idle all day long. They need
a perfect schedule for working, relaxing, and enjoying their free time. Thus leisure activities help us
enjoy our time, get refreshed, relax, and get recharged for working more. Interestingly, people who
work very hard need more enjoyable free-time activities. Otherwise, they will suffer from fatigue and
get distracted soon.
3. Why are some leisure activities more popular than others?
Answer: It is quite natural that people would prefer some leisure activities over others because our
preferences and expectations are different. The preferences and choices in our life mostly depend on
the way we spent our childhood and how we were influenced by other family members. Besides, it
varies from country to country and sometimes even cities to cities. The history and socio-cultural
background of a nation also influence the type of leisure activities people have. To cite an example,
teenagers in some Asian countries often make kites and fly them while this is not the case in many
Western countries.

Personally, I believe that the leisure activities of people are often determined by the society they live
in and their socio-economic status. Finally, some leisure activities are more common and popular due
to their attractions and engagements.

4. Do you think that parents should choose leisure activities for their children? Why/Why not?
Answer: Yes, I do think that parents should choose leisure activities for their children primarily
because the practice will allow the parents to have enough oversight over the activities of their
children as in whether they are picking up any bad habits or hanging out with wrong the crowds.
Besides, children are not always intelligent or smart enough to understand what is good for their
proper physical and mental growth, and as such, would require advice from their parents so that the
children are able to extract maximum benefits from leisurely activities.

5. Has free time activities among people in your country changed much than that of 2 decades
ago?
Answer: I am not sure if I will be able to give a full account of free time activities before two decades
because of my rather young age, but I think that the free time activities in my country before two
decades were pretty much limited to going to a movie theatre, visiting friends and families, just going
to enjoy some snacks or refreshments at a local coffee shop or watching some games. However, now
free time activities have changed a lot because people today go shopping frequently in big shopping
malls, visit restaurants to try many different local and international cuisines, travel to some distant
tourist spots, watch movies at home (not theatre), and surf the internet.

6. What changes do you think technology has brought in the way people enjoy their leisure
activities?
Answer: I think that technologies today have brought significant changes in the way people enjoy
their leisure activities. For example, internet technologies have made it possible to listen to our
favourite music or watch our favourite movies anytime whether we are at home or on the go.
Internet, together with mobile technologies, also has made communication with our friends and
families possible (my favourite leisure activities) even if we live a world apart. Technologies have also
given us “speed” with which we can travel to some interesting lands, far away from home, in minutes
which would probably take hours before, if not days.

IELTS Speaking Part 3 topic: Studies.

1. What are some popular subjects that university students study in your country? Why?
2. Do you think that university education should be free for students? [Why/Why not]
3. Do you think students from all majors should study subjects like math and history? Why/ Why not?
4. What are the differences between a private university and a public university? Which one do you
prefer?
5. How technology has brought benefits to the way students prepare for their exams?
6. How the use of technology in the classrooms will bring more benefits to teachers and students?
Why?

1. What are some popular subjects that university students study in your country? Why?
Answer: For years, we have seen that subjects like

computer science,

computer engineering, electrical engineering, pharmacy, business administration, medical science,


public administration, international relationships, marine science and engineering, and other
engineering subjects (like architectural and mechanical engineering) have remained popular. These
subjects have remained popular primarily because they offer better employment and earning
opportunities. They are popular also because they usually bring a greater social status and prestige
for people who are not exactly associated with other subjects.

2. Do you think that university education should be free for students? Why/Why not?
Answer: No, I don’t really like to subscribe to the idea that university education should be free for
students because that would tempt students to take education for granted, meaning that they
wouldn’t possibly be enough serious about their studies. Besides, free education would also mean
that universities wouldn’t probably have enough funds to put forth for high-level research works and
structural improvements (ie. building new university residences and faculty halls) which would
certainly harm the interests of students in the long run.

Alternative Answer: Yes, I believe university education should be free for students. The main reason
is that higher education opens up better job opportunities, improves the quality of life, and benefits
society as a whole. When education is free, more talented students, especially those from lower-
income backgrounds, can attend university without worrying about tuition costs. This creates a more
equal society, reduces economic gaps, and encourages social mobility. Additionally, investing in free
education means the government is investing in its future workforce, which ultimately benefits the
nation's economy and social development.

3. Do you think students from all majors should study subjects like math and history? Why/ Why
not?
Answer: In principle, I am in favour of studying all subjects, including math and history, because the
more we learn, the better will it prepare us to face the challenges of the real world. Studying math
equips us with more analytical and reasoning capabilities which may prove out to be crucial in
looking for a solution for complicated problems while studying history would allow us to make more
informed decisions in the light of previous successes and failures for identical problems or
challenges.

4. What are the differences between a private university and a public university? Which one do
you prefer?
Answer: Well, as the name suggests, private universities are privately owned universities contrary to
the government or state-owned public universities. Private universities are quite expensive and in
many cases, offer a few selected courses. On the other hand, public universities are funded by the
state and do not require high tuition fees for the students. From my personal experience, I can say
that public universities have large campuses and a great number of students while the opposite is
the case for private universities in my country.
Which one do I prefer? Well, as a public university student, I personally prefer a public university
over a private university. However, I am quite broad-minded in terms of accepting some advantages
of studying at a private university. For example, a student from a private university can complete his
course in due time but this is not possible oftentimes at many public universities.

5. How technology has brought benefits to the way students prepare for their exams?
Answer: Technology has brought a number of great benefits to the way students prepare for their
exams today. For example, today students can easily do research works on their computers by using
the internet from the comfort of their homes without really going to a library. Students can also
share and transmit important data and information, which are necessary to prepare for exams, in
seconds by using their emails anytime and anywhere. Finally, technology has also helped students
prepare for exams by allowing them to solve very complicated problems on their

computers with the help of many math and engineering software and applications which wouldn’t
be possible otherwise.

6. How the use of technology in the classrooms will bring more benefits to teachers and students?
Why?
Answer: The use of technology can bring more benefits to teachers and students by allowing them to
collaborate with each other because, in that way, both students and teachers can engage themselves
in a more fun but challenging manner. For example, today, there are many teaching/learning apps, to
be used on our

computers, for individualized instruction. And with these apps, while students can learn at their own
pace according to their abilities, the teachers can also, at the same time, work with the individual
students who might struggle to learn.

IELTS Speaking Part 3 topic: The role of ceremony in our lives & more...

[Topic: The role of ceremony in our lives]


1. How important are ceremonies in our lives?
2. Do you see the role of private and public ceremonies changing in the future? [Why/ why not?]

[Topic: Attitude to marriage in your country]


3. Have attitudes towards marriage changed in recent years? [How?]
4. In what ways do men and women feel differently about marriage, in your opinion?

[Topic: Events of national/global significance]


5. What sort of national events and ceremonies make headlines in your country?
6. Do you believe people these days have more occasions to celebrate than in the past? [Why/ why
not?]

[Topic: The role of ceremony in our lives]

1. How important are ceremonies in our lives?


Answer: Ceremonies are a part of our very existence and they represent our cultural Identity,
religious norms, traditions, patriotic feelings and often our inner joys and expectations as humans. In
this regard, they are quite significant. Without ceremonies, life would have been monotonous and
we would have very few occasions to enjoy, celebrate and have reasons to be surrounded by friends
and relatives. Personally, I feel more alive and more socially connected during the major celebrations
we observe.

2. Do you see the role of private and public ceremonies changing in the future? [Why/ why not?]
Answer: No, I don’t really see the roles of private and public ceremonies changing in the future
because, both the private and public ceremonies, as they are now today, are being observed for an
array of reasons which have existed and remained the same for thousands of years. For example, the
roles (which is to share fun and happiness among friends and family members) of birthdays or
wedding ceremonies are the same today as they were centuries ago. The same can be said pretty
much for all other ceremonies.

[Topic: Attitude to marriage in your country]

3. Have attitudes towards marriage changed in recent years? [How?]


Answer: Marriage is still an influential aspect of our social bonds. Thanks to the changes in our
mentality about marriage that helps prevent early marriage which was so common even only 30
years ago or so. In the past, late marriage for females was unacceptable and often considered an
unfortunate event. However, this is no longer the case, and both males and females, these days,
want to have a career before getting married which, in my opinion, is a positive trend. However, an
increasing number of single parents and the unmarried population is often indicated by many to be a
concerning issue. Overall, our perceptions and attitudes towards marriage have changed to a great
extent and I believe the changes are mostly positive.

4. In what ways do men and women feel differently about marriage, in your opinion?
Answer: I think that depends on the type of marriage we are considering and the country where the
marriage is taking place. For instance, both girls and boys in our country cordially accept love
marriage while they feel differently about settled marriage.

Moreover, a boy has to be an earning member before he can get married while this is not the case
for girls. Since a bride starts living with her husband's family in our country, this is a major shift for a
girl. Grooms, on the other hand, focus more on starting their own family and thus their thoughts and
preparation for the marriage are different.

[Topic: Events of national/global significance]

5. What sort of national events and ceremonies make headlines in your country?
Answer: In my country, major political decisions, crises, or important government announcements
usually become headlines in newspapers and on TV. Additionally, national ceremonies such as
Independence Day, Victory Day, and other national days receive extensive media coverage and are
widely discussed. Apart from this, whenever our national sports teams achieve a significant victory or
perform exceptionally, it makes big headlines as sports are very popular in my country. I've also
noticed that individual achievements, such as winning Olympic medals or prestigious international
awards, gain significant media attention. Finally, tragic events like natural disasters or major accidents
that cause loss of life and property also dominate the headlines.

6. Do you believe people these days have more occasions to celebrate than in the past? [Why/ why
not?]
Answer: Yes, I do believe people nowadays have more occasions to celebrate compared to the past.
The main reason is globalisation and cultural exchange, which have introduced celebrations from
around the world into our daily lives. For example, people now celebrate international festivals,
birthdays, anniversaries, and even personal achievements more enthusiastically than before.
Additionally, social media has made sharing and celebrating these occasions much easier, motivating
people to mark even smaller milestones or events that previously wouldn't have been celebrated. So
I believe it is safe to say that we have more reasons and opportunities to celebrate today than in the
past.

IELTS Speaking Part 3 Topic: Arriving early & Being patient.

[Discussion Topic: Arriving early]


Q. In what kinds of situations should people always arrive early?
Q. How important is it to arrive early in your country?
Q. How can modern technology help people to arrive early?

[Discussion Topic: Being patient]


Q. What kinds of jobs require the most patience?
Q. Is it always better to be patient in work (or studies)?
Q. Do you agree or disagree that the older people are, the more patient they are?

[Arriving early]
Q. In what kinds of situations should people always arrive early?
Answer: I believe arriving early is crucial for formal appointments, such as job interviews, important
meetings, exams, or doctor's appointments. Being punctual in these situations shows respect for
others' time and helps avoid unnecessary stress. Additionally, arriving early to catch flights or trains
ensures you don't miss your travel connections and helps avoid unexpected complications.

Q. How important is it to arrive early in your country?


Answer: In my country, punctuality is generally regarded as a sign of respect and professionalism,
especially in business or educational contexts. Arriving early indicates seriousness and good
manners. However, socially, there's a bit more flexibility as people often arrive slightly late to
informal gatherings. Still, overall, punctuality is definitely valued and encouraged.

Q. How can modern technology help people to arrive early?


Answer: Modern technology can be extremely helpful in managing time effectively. For instance, GPS
navigation apps show real-time traffic conditions and suggest the fastest routes, helping people avoid
delays. Calendar and reminder apps send notifications about upcoming events, ensuring people
leave early enough. Public transport apps also provide accurate schedules, making it easier for
people to plan and arrive on time.

[Being patient]
Q. What kinds of jobs require the most patience?
Answer: Well, jobs involving direct interaction with people, such as teaching, healthcare, customer
service, or counselling, often require significant patience. In these roles, professionals regularly
handle challenging situations, manage different personalities, and offer consistent support, even
under stress. Additionally, creative jobs like artists or researchers require patience, as progress in
these fields can be slow and gradual.
Q. Is it always better to be patient in work (or studies)?
Answer: I would say patience is generally beneficial because it helps individuals stay calm, make
thoughtful decisions, and avoid unnecessary mistakes. However, excessive patience without action
can sometimes lead to procrastination or missed opportunities. Ideally, people should balance
patience with assertiveness, knowing when to wait and when to take initiative.

Q. Do you agree or disagree that the older people are, the more patient they are?
Answer: I partially agree with that. It's true that older people often become more patient due to
accumulated life experiences and the ability to manage their emotions better. However, this isn't
universally true since some elderly individuals might become less patient due to declining health or
energy. Patience really depends on personality, life experiences, and individual circumstances, rather
than age alone.

IELTS Speaking Part 3 Topic: Watching films/movies & Theatre.

[Discussion Topic: Watching films/movies]


Q. What are the most popular types of films in your country?
Q. What is the difference between watching a film in the cinema and watching a film at home?
Q. Do you think cinemas will close in the future?

[Discussion Topic: Theatre]


Q. How important is the theatre in your country’s history?
Q. How strong a tradition is it today in your country to go to the theatre?
Q. Do you think the theatre should be run as a business or as a public service?

[Watching films/movies]
Q. What are the most popular types of films in your country?
Answer: In my country, action, comedy, and drama films tend to be the most popular. Action films
often appeal because of their excitement and impressive special effects, while comedy films provide
an enjoyable escape from everyday stress. Drama films attract audiences due to their compelling
storytelling and emotional depth. Recently, superhero films and animated features have also become
widely popular, particularly among younger audiences.

Q. What is the difference between watching a film in the cinema and watching a film at home?
Answer: Watching a film at the cinema provides a more immersive experience thanks to the big
screen, powerful sound systems, and atmosphere created by sharing reactions with a larger
audience. On the other hand, watching films at home is convenient, comfortable, and more
affordable. You have more control as you can pause, rewind, or even snack as much as you like
without disturbing others. Both experiences have their unique advantages, depending on personal
preference.

Q. Do you think cinemas will close in the future?


Answer: I don't think cinemas will disappear completely, but their role may change significantly.
Although streaming services have become very popular, cinemas still offer an experience that's hard
to replicate at home. People enjoy going out to the movies as a social event or special occasion. So,
while cinemas might become fewer or evolve to provide more unique or luxurious experiences, I
believe they will continue to exist.
[Theatre]
Q. How important is the theatre in your country’s history?
Answer: Theatre has played a significant role in my country's cultural history. It was traditionally a
key way to entertain and educate people before modern media existed. Theatre performances often
reflected important social issues, historical events, and cultural values, thereby influencing public
opinion and awareness. So yes, theatre has been historically very important in shaping the arts and
cultural identity.

Q. How strong a tradition is it today in your country to go to the theatre?


Answer: Today, going to the theatre remains an appreciated cultural activity, especially in larger
cities. While it may not be as mainstream as movies or television, there is still a loyal audience that
appreciates live performances and enjoys the intimate atmosphere theatre provides. Festivals and
special theatre events are also popular and help keep this tradition alive and relevant.

Q. Do you think the theatre should be run as a business or as a public service?


Answer: I think ideally, theatre should be a blend of both. As a public service, theatres can receive
funding to support cultural expression and ensure accessibility for everyone. On the other hand,
running theatre productions as a business helps maintain quality, creativity, and innovation, making
them attractive to a wider audience. Balancing artistic freedom with commercial considerations can
sustain the theatre as a vibrant cultural institution.

IELTS Speaking Part 3 Topic: Different kinds of workplaces & The importance of work.

[Discussion Topic: Different kinds of workplaces]


Q. What things make an office comfortable to work in?
Q. Why do some people prefer to work outdoors?
Q. Do you agree that the building people work in is more important than the colleagues they work
with?

[Discussion Topic: The importance of work]


Q. What would life be like if people didn’t have to work?
Q. Are all jobs of equal importance?
Q. Why do some people become workaholics?

[Different kinds of workplaces]


Q. What things make an office comfortable to work in?
Answer: A comfortable office, in my opinion, usually combines several elements. Firstly, ergonomic
furniture is essential; comfortable chairs and adjustable desks can prevent health issues related to
posture. Good lighting, particularly natural sunlight, significantly improves mood and productivity.
Proper ventilation and temperature control are also crucial, as a space that's too hot or cold can be
distracting and uncomfortable. Additionally, having a quiet and clean environment helps employees
concentrate better, while breakout spaces or relaxation areas give people the chance to rest and
socialize. Lastly, personal touches, like plants or artwork, can create a welcoming atmosphere that
makes employees feel more at ease and motivated.

Q. Why do some people prefer to work outdoors?


Answer: Well, some individuals naturally enjoy being closer to nature, which provides them with a
sense of freedom, freshness, and inspiration. Outdoor work environments can help reduce stress,
improve mood, and boost creativity. Jobs that involve physical activity or interaction with nature,
such as farming, gardening, wildlife conservation, or construction, can feel more rewarding to people
who appreciate an active lifestyle and dislike being confined to a traditional indoor workspace.
Moreover, working outdoors often involves more variety and less repetition, making each day feel
unique and interesting.

Q. Do you agree that the building people work in is more important than the colleagues they work
with?
Answer: Honestly, I don't think so. While the physical environment does significantly impact comfort
and productivity, the people you work with often matter even more. Positive relationships with
colleagues can greatly enhance job satisfaction and morale, making tasks easier and challenges less
daunting. A supportive team environment can inspire collaboration, creativity, and productivity,
whereas a great workspace with negative or unhelpful coworkers can quickly become unpleasant.
Ideally, a balance between a comfortable workspace and good interpersonal relationships is ideal,
but given a choice, most people would probably prefer supportive colleagues over a perfect building.

[The importance of work]


Q. What would life be like if people didn’t have to work?
Answer: If people no longer had to work, life could become quite different. Initially, it might feel
liberating, allowing individuals more time to pursue hobbies and interests, and spend with family and
friends. However, over time, the lack of structure and purpose that work provides could lead to
feelings of boredom, lack of fulfillment, or even mental health issues. Work often gives people a
sense of identity, social connection, and accomplishment. Without these elements, society might
need to develop new ways to provide meaning and purpose in people's lives. On the positive side,
people might become more creative, and dedicate more time to education, volunteering, or
community activities, enhancing personal development and overall well-being. But most people, in
my opinion, would not follow this path.

Q. Are all jobs of equal importance?


Answer: Well, I believe that all jobs have value, but it's difficult to say they're all equally important in
every context. Each job contributes uniquely to society, whether directly or indirectly. Essential
services, such as healthcare workers, educators, emergency responders, and food producers,
obviously have immediate importance in daily survival and well-being. However, roles in science,
research, technology, arts, entertainment, and leisure also greatly enrich society, contributing to
progress, cultural growth, mental health, and happiness. The key is recognizing and appreciating that
each job plays a vital role in creating a balanced and functioning community, even though some
positions may seem more critical at certain times or situations.

Q. Why do some people become workaholics?


Answer: People might become workaholics for several reasons. For some, work provides a strong
sense of identity and achievement, and they might rely heavily on career success for self-worth.
Others might use excessive work as an escape from personal issues, stress, or difficulties in their
personal lives. Additionally, societal pressures and expectations, especially in competitive
environments, can encourage people to work excessively, believing that success demands constant
effort. While dedication is usually positive, becoming overly focused on work can lead to burnout,
strained relationships, and health issues. Ideally, maintaining a healthy balance between work and
personal life is crucial for long-term happiness and well-being.
IELTS Speaking Part 3 Topic: Types of weather & Weather forecasts

[Discussion topic: Types of weather]


Q. What types of weather do people in your country dislike most? Why is that?
Q. What jobs can be affected by different weather conditions? Why?
Q. Are there any important festivals in your country that celebrate a season or type of weather?

[Discussion topic: Weather forecasts]


Q. How important do you think it is for everyone to check what the next day’s weather will be? Why?
Q. What is the best way to get accurate information about the weather?
Q. How easy or difficult is it to predict the weather in your country? Why is that?

[Types of weather]
Q. What types of weather do people in your country dislike most? Why is that?
Answer: In my country, people generally dislike extreme weather conditions like intense heat waves
and prolonged rainy seasons. Hot weather is uncomfortable, making outdoor activities difficult and
sometimes causing heat-related health issues. On the other hand, continuous heavy rains can lead to
floods, disrupt daily routines, and affect transportation, making it equally unpopular.

Q. What jobs can be affected by different weather conditions? Why?


Answer: Several jobs can be significantly affected by the weather. For example, agriculture heavily
depends on weather conditions; unexpected rain, drought, or extreme temperatures can damage
crops. Similarly, construction workers find it challenging to work outdoors in heavy rain or extreme
heat. Airline pilots and drivers can face delays and difficulties during bad weather conditions, such as
storms or fog, impacting their safety and schedules.

Q. Are there any important festivals in your country that celebrate a season or type of weather?
Answer: Yes, there are several seasonal festivals celebrated in my country. One notable example is
the spring festival, which marks the beginning of spring with vibrant colours, music, and cultural
performances. Additionally, we celebrate harvest festivals in autumn, recognizing the importance of
good weather and abundant crops, making these events joyful and significant culturally.

[Weather forecasts]
Q. How important do you think it is for everyone to check what the next day’s weather will be?
Why?
Answer: I think it's very important for people to check the next day’s weather because it helps them
plan their daily activities effectively. Knowing about potential rain, snow, or extreme temperatures in
advance allows people to dress appropriately, schedule outdoor tasks conveniently, and ensure their
safety by avoiding hazardous conditions.

Q. What is the best way to get accurate information about the weather?
Answer: The best way to obtain accurate weather information is through reliable weather
forecasting apps and official meteorological websites. These sources use advanced technology,
satellite imagery, and expert analysis, providing precise and timely weather updates. Additionally,
official broadcasts on TV or radio from national weather agencies are generally trustworthy.

Q. How easy or difficult is it to predict the weather in your country? Why is that?
Answer: In my country, predicting the weather can be somewhat challenging, mainly due to the
diverse geographical features and changing climatic conditions. Some regions experience highly
variable weather, making accurate forecasts difficult. However, advancements in technology and
improved forecasting methods have significantly enhanced the accuracy and reliability of weather
predictions in recent years.

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