IELTS 13 Speaking Test 2
Note: This is an Official IELTS Academic and General Speaking Practice Test 02 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 ciner familiar topics.
Example Questions about Age
1. Are you happy to be the age you are now? [Why/Why not?]
Yes, I’m quite happy with my age right now. I feel like I’m in a good phase of my life where I’ve gained enough experience to make more informed decisions, but I still have the energy and curiosity to explore new things. I’m also more confident and comfortable with who I am compared to when I was younger, which makes life more enjoyable.
2. When you were a child, did you think a lot about your future? [Why/Why not?]
When I was a child, I didn’t think too much about the future. I was more focused on the present, enjoying time with friends and engaging in fun activities. I think at that age, the concept of the future feels so distant, and I was more interested in immediate things like playing or schoolwork rather than thinking about my career or adulthood.
3. Do you think you have changed as you got older? [Why/Why not?]
Yes, I believe I have changed a lot as I’ve gotten older. I’ve become more responsible and aware of my priorities. In the past, I might have been more carefree and impulsive, but now I think more about the consequences of my actions. I’ve also developed a greater appreciation for things like health, relationships, and personal growth, which I didn’t focus on as much when I was younger.
4. What will be different about your life in the future? [Why?]
I think in the future, my life will likely be more settled in terms of career and personal life. And I hope to have more stability in terms of finances and possibly start a family. I also expect that my priorities will shift as I take on more responsibilities, such as owning a home or focusing on long-term goals. With time, I think I’ll become more focused on maintaining a work-life balance and finding fulfillment in different aspects of life.
PART 2: Speaking Cue Card Topic
Describe a time when you started using a new technological device (e.g. a new computer or phone).
You should say:
- what device you started using
- why you started using
- this device how easy or difficult it was to use
- and explain how helpful this device was to you.
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:
One device that I started using recently is a tablet. I decided to buy it a few months ago when I realized I needed a portable device for both work and entertainment purposes. My laptop, while functional, was bulky and not as easy to carry around, and my phone, though convenient, had a screen that was too small for tasks like reading or editing documents. I wanted something that could bridge the gap between the two, and a tablet seemed like the perfect solution.
The reason I started using the tablet was primarily for convenience. I travel a lot for work and having a lightweight, portable device made it easier for me to stay connected and productive while on the go. Whether I’m on a train, plane, or in a coffee shop, I can easily pull out the tablet to check emails, read articles, or even attend virtual meetings. Additionally, I found the tablet great for personal use, such as reading e-books or watching videos in my free time.
When I first got the tablet, I thought it might be difficult to get used to, especially because I was more accustomed to using either my laptop or phone. However, I was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to navigate. The touchscreen interface was intuitive, and the device came preloaded with apps that I frequently use, so setting it up didn’t take much time at all. In fact, after just a few days, I found that using the tablet felt almost second nature. The hardest part, if any, was adjusting to the virtual keyboard, which took a bit of practice to type quickly on, but after a while, I got used to it.
The tablet has been incredibly helpful to me. It has made my work much more efficient because I can respond to emails, edit documents, and stay organized without needing to carry around a heavy laptop. Also, when I need to relax, I can use the tablet to stream videos or read books, which is much more enjoyable on the larger screen compared to my phone. The battery life is also a huge plus, as it lasts much longer than my laptop, which means I don’t have to worry about finding a charger when I’m out and about. Overall, this device has been a great addition to my daily life, making it easier for me to balance both work and leisure activities in a more portable and convenient way.
PART 3: Follow Up Questions and Sample Answers
Discussion Topics
Technology and Education
Example questions:
1. What is the best age for children to start computer lessons?
I think the best age for children to start computer lessons is around five or six years old, when they are beginning primary school. At this age, they are capable of understanding basic concepts and following instructions, which makes it an ideal time to introduce them to technology. Early exposure to computers helps them develop important skills such as typing, navigating software, and understanding how to search for information online. However, it’s important to balance this with physical activities and social interaction to ensure that children don’t become overly dependent on technology at a young age.
2. Do you think that schools should use more technology to help children learn?
Yes, I believe that schools should use more technology to enhance children’s learning. Technology can make lessons more engaging and interactive, which helps students understand complex topics more easily. For example, educational apps, virtual simulations, and online resources can provide children with a more diverse learning experience. Additionally, technology can cater to different learning styles, allowing students to learn at their own pace. However, it’s important that technology is used in moderation, and traditional teaching methods shouldn’t be completely replaced.
3. Do you agree or disagree that computers will replace teachers one day?
I disagree with the idea that computers will fully replace teachers one day. While technology can assist in education and provide valuable tools for learning, the role of a teacher goes beyond just delivering information. Teachers provide guidance, mentorship, and emotional support, which are aspects that computers cannot replicate. Moreover, teachers are essential for fostering critical thinking, creativity, and social skills, all of which require human interaction. Therefore, while computers will continue to play an important role in education, I believe teachers will always be necessary.
Technology and Society
Example questions:
4. How much has technology improved how we communicate with each other?
Technology has significantly improved the way we communicate with each other. With the advent of smartphones, social media, and instant messaging apps, it’s easier than ever to stay in touch with people, regardless of their location. Video calls allow us to have face-to-face conversations with someone halfway across the world, and social media platforms help us share updates with large groups of people instantly. Additionally, technology has made communication more convenient and efficient in professional settings, where emails and messaging platforms streamline work processes. However, some argue that these improvements have led to a decline in face-to-face interactions.
5. Do you agree that there are still many more major technological innovations to be made?
Yes, I agree that there are still many more major technological innovations to be made. Technology is constantly evolving, and there are always new discoveries and advancements being developed. Areas such as artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and biotechnology hold immense potential for future breakthroughs. For example, we’re only scratching the surface of what AI can do, and there’s a lot of ongoing research in fields like quantum computing and space exploration. As society’s needs change and technology continues to progress, I believe we will see many more innovations in the coming decades.
6. Could you suggest some reasons why some people are deciding to reduce their use of technology?
There are several reasons why some people are choosing to reduce their use of technology. One major reason is the desire to disconnect and reduce the stress associated with being constantly online. Many people feel overwhelmed by the constant notifications and pressure to be available 24/7, so they seek to limit their screen time for better mental health. Additionally, some are concerned about the negative effects of excessive technology use on their physical health, such as eye strain and a sedentary lifestyle. There’s also growing awareness of privacy concerns and the potential for technology to negatively impact relationships and social interactions, which encourages some to step back from digital devices.
