How many parts are there in the IELTS Speaking Test?
There are 3 parts. Part 1 is an interview. Part 2 is a talk/long-turn. Part 3 is a two-way discussion on broader issues.
10
How long does the speaking test take?
11-14 minutes ( part 1 - 4-5 minutes, part 2 - 3-4 minutes, part 3 - 4-5 minutes)
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How will the speaking test be marked?
On (1) fluency and coherence, (2) vocabulary/lexical resource, (3) grammar range and accuracy, and (4) pronunciation, each accounts for 25%
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How long should I talk in part 2?
2 minutes
5
Can you choose your topic to talk about in part 2?
No, of course not! :D
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Do I need to follow the prompts in part 2?
No, you don't have to, but it does provide a good structure, can help with fluency.
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What's the difference between part 1 and part 3?
part 1 - interview which requires shorter answers while part 3 - discussion, asks for longer and more detailed answers
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Answer this question using past, present and future: When do you usually get up in the morning?
Present because it's a routine/habit.
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Answer this question using past, present and future: Do you think dictionaries are useful for learning a language?
Present because it's a question asking for an opinion.
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Answer this question using past, present and future: Do you have a healthy diet?
Present Tense because it's a routine/habit.
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Answer this question using past, present and future: What is your favourite leisure activity?
Present Tense because it's a preference.
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Answer this question using past, present and future: What books did you read as a child?
Past Tense
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Does it matter if I have an accent when I talk?
No, as long as the examiner can understand clearly
5
Can I ask the examiner for his or her opinion?
No, this is a language test, the examiner wants to hear YOUR English
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Will I get a lower score if I ask the examiner to repeat the question?
No, it will not affect your score, but don't do it more than 2-3 times
5
How much thinking time do I have in Part 3?
None! You should begin speaking immediately. Since you will not be able to come up with ideas right away, it’s important to be able to use filler expressions.
