IELTS 13 Speaking Test 4
Note: This is an Official IELTS Academic and General Speaking Practice Test 04 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 Animals
1. Are there many animals or birds where you live? [Why/Why not?]
Yes, there are quite a few animals and birds in the area where I live. I live in a suburban neighborhood with plenty of green spaces and parks, so it’s common to see various birds, squirrels, and sometimes even rabbits. The environment is fairly quiet and safe for wildlife, which makes it easier for these animals to thrive. Additionally, we have a few large trees nearby, which attract a lot of birds, especially in the mornings.
2. How often do you watch programs or read articles about wild animals? [Why?]
I try to watch programs or read articles about wild animals at least once a month. I find wildlife documentaries fascinating because they give me insight into animal behavior, habitats, and environmental challenges. It’s both entertaining and educational, and it keeps me updated on conservation issues that I might not otherwise hear about. I think it’s important to stay aware of these issues, even if we’re not directly involved in them.
3. Have you ever been to a zoo or a wildlife park? [Why/Why not?]
Yes, I’ve been to both a zoo and a wildlife park a few times. I find it exciting to see animals up close, especially those that aren’t native to my country. Visiting a wildlife park feels a bit more natural than a zoo, as the animals have larger enclosures that resemble their natural habitats. I think these experiences are valuable because they help people appreciate the diversity of wildlife and understand the need for conservation.
4. Would you like to have a job working with animals? [Why/Why not?]
I think I would enjoy having a job working with animals, but perhaps in a more indirect role, like wildlife conservation or research. While I love animals and enjoy spending time with them, I’m not sure I have the patience or skills for direct care, such as a zookeeper or vet would need. However, contributing to animal welfare or environmental preservation would be very fulfilling to me, as I could help make a positive impact without necessarily being hands-on.
PART 2: Speaking Cue Card Topic
Describe a website you use that helps you a lot in your work or studies.
You should say:
- what the website is
- how often you use the website
- what information the website gives you
- and explain how your work or studies would change if this website didn’t exist.
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 website that I find incredibly useful for my studies is Google Scholar. It’s a free search engine that allows users to access a vast collection of scholarly articles, research papers, theses, and books from various academic publishers and universities. Google Scholar provides a range of valuable resources, making it ideal for anyone involved in academic or research-related work, whether at a student level or for professional purposes. I use this website frequently, almost every week, as it provides the kind of information I can rely on when working on assignments, projects, or researching specific topics in-depth.
The website provides access to a wide variety of scholarly articles and research studies on just about any topic imaginable, including sciences, humanities, social sciences, and more. One feature I particularly like is the citation tool that lets me see how other scholars have cited a particular paper, which helps gauge its relevance and credibility. Additionally, I can view different versions of papers and access related articles, which often lead me to other relevant research. Google Scholar also has filters, so I can limit my search by publication date, specific journals, or certain keywords, which is very helpful for finding recent studies or articles directly related to my field of study.
If this website didn’t exist, my work and studies would definitely become more challenging. For one, I would have to rely on less reliable sources or spend much more time searching for credible information. Instead of having a well-organized database where I can find peer-reviewed research, I would likely have to use various library databases or subscription-based resources, which are often more complicated to navigate and sometimes require membership fees. Moreover, accessing specific studies would be difficult without Google Scholar’s free access feature, which has saved me from paying for articles or journals numerous times.
The absence of Google Scholar would also mean I’d miss out on seeing how various papers are interlinked through citations. This would slow down my research process and make it harder to develop a well-rounded understanding of any topic I’m studying. Overall, Google Scholar is a tool that has become central to my academic life, and without it, conducting efficient and accurate research would require significantly more time and effort. This website has truly simplified my work, helping me stay well-informed, and has been instrumental in improving the quality of my assignments and projects.
PART 3: Follow Up Questions and Sample Answers
Discussion Topics
The Internet
Example questions:
1. Why do some people find the internet addictive?
Many people find the internet addictive because it provides instant access to entertainment, social interaction, and information. For instance, social media platforms are designed to capture attention and encourage users to spend more time on them through notifications, likes, and comments. Additionally, the internet allows people to escape from daily life, providing a sense of excitement or relaxation that they may not find elsewhere. The endless amount of content and the variety of activities available, such as watching videos, gaming, and shopping, can make it hard for some people to step away.
2. What would the world be like without the Internet?
Without the internet, the world would look drastically different. Communication would be slower and more limited, as people would rely on phone calls, letters, and face-to-face interactions instead of emails or messaging apps. Access to information would also be more difficult, with people needing to visit libraries or rely on traditional media for updates and knowledge. Many businesses, especially e-commerce and tech-based companies, might struggle to survive, and learning would return to more conventional methods. While people might experience more in-person social interactions, they would lose the convenience and connectivity the internet provides.
3. Do you think that the way people use the internet may change in the future?
Yes, I think the way people use the internet will definitely evolve. With advancements in technology, people might rely even more on virtual reality and augmented reality, potentially using them for social interactions, shopping, and even work. Additionally, as privacy concerns grow, people may start using the internet more cautiously, perhaps preferring platforms that offer better security and transparency. Artificial intelligence may also shape internet use by providing personalized experiences, making it easier for people to find relevant content or complete tasks more efficiently.
Social media websites
Example questions:
4. What are the ways that social media can be used for positive purposes?
Social media can be an excellent tool for spreading awareness on important issues, such as environmental conservation, mental health, or social justice. Many organizations and individuals use it to educate others, share resources, and raise funds for causes that benefit society. Social media can also help people stay connected with loved ones across distances, fostering a sense of community. Additionally, it provides a platform for small businesses and entrepreneurs to reach a wider audience, helping them grow and contribute to the economy.
5. Why do some individuals post highly negative comments about other people on social media?
Some people post negative comments on social media due to anonymity, which can make them feel less accountable for their words. Additionally, people may use social media to express frustration or anger, taking out their emotions on others instead of addressing their issues in healthier ways. There’s also a certain level of competitiveness on social media, with people sometimes feeling envious or resentful of others’ achievements, leading them to post hurtful comments. Sometimes, it’s simply for attention, as controversial or negative remarks often get more visibility and engagement.
6. Do you think that companies’ main form of advertising will be via social media in the future?
Yes, I believe that social media will continue to be a major advertising platform for companies. Social media allows businesses to reach specific audiences through targeted ads, making it an efficient and cost-effective advertising method. Moreover, with influencers and content creators having large followings, brands can partner with them to promote products more organically. As social media platforms keep evolving and gaining users, especially among younger generations, companies are likely to shift even more resources toward social media advertising to stay relevant and engaged with their customers.
