IELTS 15 Speaking Test 1
Note: This is an Official IELTS Academic and General Speaking Practice Test 01 With Sample Answers From Cambridge Book 15.
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 Email
1. What kinds of emails do you receive about your work or studies?
I usually receive emails related to my assignments and class schedules. Sometimes, I get emails from my teachers with study materials or announcements about upcoming tests. I also get emails from my classmates, especially when we have group projects.
2. Do you prefer to email, phone, or text your friends? [Why?]
I prefer to text my friends because it’s quick and easy. We can have short conversations throughout the day. If it’s something urgent or important, I might call them. I use email less often because it feels more formal.
3. Do you reply to emails and messages as soon as you receive them? [Why/Why not?]
I try to reply to messages as soon as I receive them, especially if they are important. It helps me stay organized and not forget about them. But if I’m busy or the message isn’t urgent, I might reply later.
4. Are you happy to receive emails that are advertising things? [Why/Why not?]
No, I’m not really happy to receive advertising emails because they fill up my inbox and are often not relevant to me. They can be annoying, and I usually just delete them without reading.
PART 2: Speaking Cue Card Topic
Describe a hotel that you know.
You should say:
- where this hotel is
- what this hotel looks like
- what facilities this hotel has
and explain whether you think this is a nice hotel to stay in.
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:
The hotel I know is called “Seaside Hotel,” located in my hometown, right next to the beach. It’s in a popular area where many tourists come to visit, so it’s easy to find. The Seaside Hotel is a medium-sized building with a modern design. It has large glass windows that allow guests to see the ocean from almost every room. The hotel is painted white with blue accents, which gives it a fresh, clean look that matches the beach vibe. There are palm trees around the entrance, making it look welcoming and relaxing.
This hotel offers a variety of facilities for its guests. It has a large swimming pool, a gym, and a spa. There’s also a restaurant that serves delicious local and international dishes. The rooms are comfortable and come with free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and a minibar. Overall, I think this is a nice hotel to stay in because of its convenient location, beautiful views, and excellent facilities. It’s perfect for people who want to relax and enjoy the beach.
PART 3: Follow Up Questions and Sample Answers
Discussion Topics
Staying in hotels
1. What things are important when people are choosing a hotel?
When choosing a hotel, people often look for a few important things. First, the location is crucial because guests usually want to be close to places they want to visit, like tourist spots or business areas. Second, cleanliness and comfort are important for a pleasant stay. Third, the quality of customer service can make a big difference. People want friendly and helpful staff. Lastly, the cost of the hotel is a big factor, as everyone has different budgets.
2. Why do some people not like staying in hotels?
Some people don’t like staying in hotels for several reasons. One common reason is a lack of privacy. Hotels can sometimes be noisy, with guests coming and going at all hours. Also, people might feel uncomfortable sleeping in a bed that many others have used. Another reason is the cost; staying in a hotel can be expensive, especially if it’s for a long time. Finally, some people just prefer the comfort and familiarity of their own home.
3. Do you think staying in a luxury hotel is a waste of money?
Whether staying in a luxury hotel is a waste of money depends on the person’s preferences and situation. For some, it might be worth it because they value the high level of service, comfort, and extra amenities like spas and fine dining. These can make their trip more enjoyable. However, for others, especially those who only need a place to sleep, it might seem unnecessary to spend so much when a cheaper hotel would do the job.
Working in a hotel
1. Do you think hotel work is a good career for life?
Hotel work can be a good career for life for some people. It offers a variety of roles and the chance to meet people from different places, which can be exciting. For those who enjoy hospitality and customer service, it can be very fulfilling. However, hotel jobs can sometimes involve long hours, working on weekends and holidays, which might not suit everyone. So, it depends on the individual’s interests and lifestyle.
2. How does working in a big hotel compare with working in a small hotel?
Working in a big hotel is often different from working in a small hotel. In a big hotel, employees might have specific roles and be part of a larger team. There might be more opportunities for training and career advancement. On the other hand, in a small hotel, employees might have to do a variety of tasks, giving them a broader experience. Small hotels can feel more personal and close-knit, but there might be fewer chances to move up in the career ladder.
3. What skills are needed to be a successful hotel manager?
To be a successful hotel manager, several skills are important. First, strong communication skills are essential because managers need to interact with both staff and guests. Good organizational skills are also necessary to keep the hotel running smoothly. A successful manager should be good at problem-solving since issues can arise at any time. Finally, leadership skills are important to motivate and guide the team effectively.
