IELTS 13 Speaking Test 1
Note: This is an Official IELTS Academic and General Speaking Practice Test 01 With Sample Answers From Cambridge Book 13.
PART 1: Questions and Sample Answers
The examiner asks the candidate about him/herself, his/her home, work or studies and other familiar topics.
Example Questions about Television programs
1. Where do you usually watch TV programs/shows? [Why?/Why not?]
I usually watch TV programs at home on my laptop or smart TV. I prefer watching in the comfort of my living room because it’s a relaxing environment where I can sit back and enjoy the show without any distractions. Sometimes I also watch programs on my phone when I’m commuting or traveling, as it’s convenient to have access to streaming platforms wherever I am.
2. What’s your favorite TV program/show? [Why?]
One of my favorite TV shows is Stranger Things. I enjoy it because of its exciting plot, which blends mystery, science fiction, and nostalgia for the 1980s. The characters are well-developed, and I love the way the show keeps you on the edge of your seat with its suspense and surprising twists. Plus, the visual effects and soundtrack really enhance the viewing experience, making it a show I look forward to watching.
3. Are there any programs/shows you don’t like watching? [Why?/Why not?]
Yes, I’m not a big fan of reality TV shows, especially those that focus on drama and conflict, like Keeping Up with the Kardashians or Big Brother. I find them a bit superficial and not very interesting because they often exaggerate situations just for entertainment. I prefer watching shows that have a strong storyline or something educational, rather than ones that thrive on gossip or confrontation.
4. Do you think you will watch more TV or fewer TV programs/shows in the future? [Why?/Why not?]
I think I’ll watch fewer TV programs in the future. As I get busier with work and other commitments, I find myself with less time for leisure activities like watching TV. Also, I’m trying to spend more time on productive activities like reading or learning new skills. That said, I’ll probably still make time for the occasional series or movie that really interests me, but I don’t think I’ll watch as much TV as I do now.
PART 2: Speaking Cue Card Topic
Describe someone you know who has started a business.
You should say:
- who this person is
- what work this person does
- why this person decided to start a business
- and explain whether you would like to do the same kind of work as this person.
Note: You will have to talk about the topic for one to two minutes. You have one minute to think about what you are going to say. You can make some notes to help you if you wish.
Sample Answer 1:
I’d like to talk about my friend, Sarah, who started her own bakery about two years ago. She had always been passionate about baking, and after working in various cafes and restaurants for a few years, she decided to take the plunge and open her own business. Sarah’s bakery specializes in organic and gluten-free baked goods, and it has quickly gained popularity in our town.
Sarah decided to start her own bakery because she wanted more creative freedom and the ability to work on her own terms. She was also motivated by her love for healthy, homemade food and saw a gap in the market for high-quality, gluten-free products. She worked hard to develop unique recipes and build a loyal customer base.
As for whether I’d like to do the same kind of work, I think it would be exciting to start my own business, but I’m not sure if I have the same level of passion for baking. I admire Sarah’s dedication, but I think I’d prefer to pursue something related to my own interests, like opening a bookshop or starting a consultancy in my field.
Sample Answer 2:
The person I’d like to talk about is my cousin, Ahmed, who started a digital marketing agency a few years ago. He had been working in a corporate marketing job for several years but felt restricted by the corporate environment and wanted to be his own boss. His agency focuses on helping small businesses with social media marketing, SEO, and content creation.
Ahmed decided to start his own business because he believed that he could offer more personalized and effective services to clients compared to large marketing firms. He had gained a lot of experience over the years and saw a growing demand for digital marketing services, especially for small businesses trying to establish an online presence. His business has grown steadily, and he now manages a small team.
I find his work fascinating, but I’m not sure if I would want to do the same thing. While I’m interested in entrepreneurship, I think I’d prefer to work in a different industry, perhaps something more hands-on or related to technology. That said, I really respect his ambition and the way he’s been able to turn his passion into a successful business.
PART 3: Follow Up Questions and Sample Answers
Discussion Topics
Choosing work
Example questions:
1. What kinds of jobs do young people not want to do in your country?
In my country, many young people tend to avoid manual labor jobs or those in the agriculture and construction sectors. These jobs are often seen as physically demanding and don’t offer high salaries, which makes them less attractive to the younger generation. Additionally, many young people prefer jobs that offer more flexibility or opportunities for personal growth, so they tend to shy away from traditional, repetitive work in factories or low-paid service roles.
2. Who is best at advising young people about choosing a job: teachers or parents?
I think both teachers and parents play an important role in advising young people about choosing a career, but they provide different perspectives. Teachers often have a broader understanding of the job market and can offer guidance based on a student’s academic performance and skills. On the other hand, parents usually know their child’s personality and preferences well, so they can offer more personal advice. Ideally, a combination of input from both teachers and parents can help young people make more informed career choices.
3. Is money always the most important thing when choosing a job?
No, I don’t think money is always the most important factor when choosing a job. While financial stability is certainly important, many people also prioritize job satisfaction, work-life balance, and opportunities for personal development. Some individuals may choose lower-paying jobs that align with their passions or values, or those that offer flexibility and less stress. So, while money is a factor, it’s not necessarily the only one, and different people have different priorities.
Work-Life Balance
Example questions:
4. Do you agree that many people nowadays are under pressure to work longer hours and take less holiday?
Yes, I agree that many people today feel pressured to work longer hours and take fewer holidays. With increasing competition in the job market and the rise of technology that keeps us constantly connected to work, it’s becoming harder to maintain a clear boundary between work and personal life. Additionally, some companies have demanding expectations, and people may feel the need to prove their commitment by working overtime or skipping vacations. This pressure can lead to burnout and negatively affect both mental and physical health.
5. What is the impact on society of people having a poor work-life balance?
A poor work-life balance can have serious negative effects on society. It can lead to increased stress, anxiety, and mental health problems among individuals, which in turn can reduce productivity and job satisfaction. Over time, this can result in higher turnover rates and absenteeism in the workplace. On a broader scale, when people are overworked, they have less time to spend with their families or engage in community activities, which can weaken social bonds and contribute to a decline in overall well-being.
6. Could you recommend some effective strategies for governments and employers to ensure people have a good work-life balance?
Governments and employers can take several steps to promote a better work-life balance. For example, governments could introduce or enforce legislation that limits excessive working hours and ensures employees take their entitled holidays. They could also promote flexible working arrangements, such as remote work or compressed workweeks. Employers can help by creating a supportive workplace culture that values employee well-being, offering wellness programs, and encouraging employees to take time off when needed. Additionally, providing clear boundaries between work and personal time, especially in remote working environments, is essential for ensuring employees can disconnect from work when necessary.
