questions about education for speaking

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IELTS Speaking practice: Education

Travel & Holidays Friends Technology Sport Food Education Weather Environment Music Books & Films Health

This is a full IELTS Speaking sample with questions related to Education topic .

See IELTS Speaking vocabulary for Education topic >

You probably know what do such phrases as " bookworm " or " bachelor's degree " mean. However, it's not enough to simply know the meaning! In IELTS Speaking test you are assessed for your fluency and coherence , and thus you have to accurately use your advanced vocabulary while speaking. In this IELTS Speaking sample we collected various questions + model answers on Education Topic that you may encounter on the speaking test.

Our special formatting styles:

Useful linking phrases are in blue IELTS speaking vocabulary is in bold (put your mouse over such text to see explanations).

Do you work or are you a student?

At the moment I'm studying. I’m doing a graduate degree in molecular biology in the Vanderbilt University.

Why did you choose that subject?

I've always loved life sciences, particularly biology... And when I received my bachelor's degree An undergraduate course which usually lasts 3 or 4 years. I took a research internship in a laboratory where I studied interactions between proteins... And then I understood that I want to pursue my career in To continue career path in. biochemistry or molecular biology.

Can you describe yourself as a good student?

Well , overall I think I am a good student. ... I am not an eager beaver A very enthusiastic and hard-working person. , nor the teacher's pet Student whom teachers like the most. ... but I'm good at scientific subjects and, most importantly , I like studying.

Do you study English now?

Did you enjoy/Do you enjoy studying at school?

I've never really liked school... I'm not a bookworm A term to describe someone who really likes to read and spends a lot of time on it. and a lot of humanities subjects seemed too boring to me. However , the workload An amount of work one should do in a specific time period. was not too big... The other good thing about school is being able to see your friends. And fortunately , I had wonderful classmates.

Now, have a look at the card and prepare a monologue.

When it was
Why was it hard
What you were doing at that time

I would like to talk about my last school year. It was really diffucult due to enormous amounts Very big amounts. of homework I had to do and all the exams I had to prepare for... Em, so I studied hard, having no time to goof around Spend time doing nothing important. ... Moreover , I forgot a lot of things from the school curriculum, that's why I had to do a lot of revision... But despite the tough preparation, I managed to set aside some time To take some time. to rest and interact with my friends and family... After all , my efforts were not in vain Without result. ... I passed all the exams well and was admitted to the university of my dream.

What are some essential qualities every teacher should have?

As for me , every teacher should be able to catch student's attention To interest someone. . It is very important to make your subject interesting to the others... Also , teacher should be a subject specialist A person who is very talented in one specific field. and a kind, helpful person. .

What are some pros of studying on a distance learning course?

To be honest , I think it's very advantageous to study in such way... It gives you more time flexibility, especially if you have a job... Not to mention that it is fairly cheap Not very expensive. , compared to face-to-face classes A traditional way of studying: in a classroom with a teacher. ...

Does everybody get equal opportunities to study?

Definitely not . I think it really depends on a country you live in... Moreover , it depends on your financial capabilities An ability to pay for something. ... Some schools and universities are just too expensive... Only a small fraction Small part. of people can afford to study there.

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IELTS Speaking Cue Card Topic: Education

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Education is a cue card topic that often comes up in the IELTS speaking part 2. Below you will find a list of some exam questions and answers that you could encounter during part 2 of the IELTS Speaking test.

The questions below are based on the real IELTS speaking exam. They serve as a great IELTS Speaking part 2 cue card prediction questions to help you prepare better before your test.

Education Speaking Part 2 – Cue Card 1

Talk about a new language that you learnt. Please say

You should say:

when did you do it
how did you do it
who helped you with it
and explain how you feel about it now.

I am going to talk about learning English. I have been learning English since I was a child. I went to an international school so from a young age some of the subjects were taught in English. This was really difficult at first as not only did you have to be good at science or maths, you had to listen to the teacher explain it in English too. When I went to secondary school, my parents employed a private tutor to teach me at home. The teacher was a native from the UK so the classes really helped me learn more typical phrases and the correct pronunciation. The classes were invaluable and have really paid off as my English is much better now. Since then, I have been self taught. I read books, watch TV series and listen to podcasts in English which really helps immerse me in the language. Sometimes, I chat with English speaking friends and they correct me and I ask questions about the bizarre phrases and colloquial expressions they use. English uses a lot of jargon and slang , it can be difficult to understand but eventually I managed to catch their drift . I make a note of new vocabulary and use an app on my phone to test myself every now and again. Now I am studying translation, I am using English every day so I don’t need to brush up on my skills as much now. I feel proud of my English level, I have worked hard to get to this point.

Education Vocabulary Speaking Part 2 – Cue Card 2

paid off – got a good result
bizarre – strange
jargon and slang – technical and local dialect vocabulary
catch their drift – understand their meaning
to brush up on – to practice something after a long time

Vocabulary for Cue Card 2

have two left feet – no ability to dance
sign up – register for a course or activity
flustered – nervous and embarrassed
almost unheard of – very unusual

Talk about an elementary school teacher you have a good memory of. Please say

what he/she was like
the subject he/she taught
a memory you have of him/her
and why you this is a good memory, in your opinion
What he/she was like I am going to talk about Miss Elaine who was my favourite elementary school teacher. She was probably the kindest teacher I have ever had. She was very patient with us, but she also knew how to set 9 clear boundaries 10 . She would always let us know when we did something wrong, but she would also try to understand why we did it.
The subject he/she taught Miss Elaine was my math teacher. I always struggled 11 with math, but she was there to help me, and she gave me a lot of individual attention 12 , which I very much needed, because I would get very anxious trying to solve a math problem on my own.
A memory you have of him/her I remember that one time she gave us a worksheet 13 to complete. I could not do it and I started to tear up 14 . Everybody else was looking at me in the classroom. Miss Elaine ran to me and asked what was going on. I couldn’t really speak because I was crying and feeling stressed. Miss Elaine told me everything was okay and asked me if I was crying because I was nervous that I couldn’t solve the problems when others could. I just nodded 15 and she gave me a warm hug. Then she sat with me, and we solved the problems together.
And Why you this is a good memory, in your opinion To me that is a good memory because I really felt like she wanted to and was able to understand me. Especially when you are young, it is hard sometimes to know, let alone 16 say how you feel. Her understanding and support 17 had a huge 18 impact 19 on my confidence.

Vocabulary for Cue Card 3

set = (in this case) put
boundaries = limits
struggled = had problems doing something
individual attention = focus on one person
worksheet = a piece of paper with activities to complete or questions to answer
tear up = have tears come up in your eyes
nodded = said yes with the head
let alone = even less
support = help
huge = extremely big
impact = (in this case) effect

Talk about a skill that was difficult for you to learn. You should say

what skill it was
why you learnt it
why it was difficult to learn
and explain how you felt about this.

I am going to speak about learning to speak another language. I learnt to speak French a few years ago. I decided to learn in order to communicate better when I travelled abroad. I had learnt it at school but forgotten a lot in recent years and felt I should brush up on it. I wanted to challenge myself and prove to myself I could do it. So I found a teacher online and then we met face to face . The teacher was a French native but spoke really good English too which helped when explaining the grammar. As well as the classes, I listened to podcasts and used vocabulary apps to learn new words. At first, it felt near impossible to grasp the vocabulary and master the pronunciation. I felt really frustrated that I didn’t seem to be picking it up more quickly and it was embarrassing to repeat the same things over and over again in class. But I persevered and gradually it got easier. It was as if part of my brain opened up and started to accept and remember the language. I was elated . From that moment, I was on a roll ; learning new words and even going to a language exchange group to meet other like- minded people. Now when I go on holiday to France, I feel more confident going into shops or ordering food in a restaurant so it was worth the effort and time I put into learning French.

Vocabulary for Cue Card 4

face to face – in person
grasp – to understand
elated – very happy
on a roll – a prolonged period of success
like minded – similar thinking people

Describe an area of science (physics, psychology and so on) that interests you. Please say

how do you know about it
why are you interested in it
What it is? I would like to talk about physics, an area of science that focuses on matter. It mainly deals with how matter moves in space and time, and what forces act upon it. In general, this field aims to make people understand how the universe behaves. For ordinary people, Physics is more understandable in situations like rubbing two things together and creating static electricity or the force applied whenever the washing machine dryer rapidly rotates. And to many, this subject can be identified when driving a car because natural forces help cars to start, move and stop.
How do you know about it? I started learning physics when I was 8 years old as it was a formal subject in my school curriculum. As my class teacher used to teach concepts of physics in a very interesting manner, I developed keen interest in it during my childhood. What’s more my father is a science professor at a local university so I also got to know a lot about physics through him.
Why are you interested in it? Physics interested me because it involves a lot of math. I find it easier to work with formulas for force and understanding how they work compared to other branches of science. Physics covers several areas and every time I encounter them in real life, my love for physics grows further. Moreover, I feel satisfied whenever I realize the scientific explanation and apply its practical aspect

Vocabulary for Cue Card 5

Talk about another course that you would like to take, not related to your previous studies. Please say

what kind of course would it be
what do you want to learn from it
why would you choose it

I am going to talk about photography. I would love to take a photography course. I have always been interested in taking photos since I was a young child. I was given a camera when I was a teenager and used to go out taking pictures of animals and people. Nowadays, I mainly take photos using my smartphone but I miss the skill of taking really good photos. I would like to take the course so I could learn about setting up the shot, capturing a moment and also some of the technical stuff about filtering and perfecting photos.

I know that you can do these courses as an evening class or even during the summer but I just haven’t had the time or the money since I have started university. You can even learn online but I don’t think that is the same as a hands on experience.I have a friend who has completed the course and he takes amazing photos of people and beautiful architecture – it really is awe inspiring . If I did the course in the future, I would like to take a trip to a famous sight like Machu Picchu or the Niagara Falls and capture some amazing shots there. In the meantime . I am taking photos with my smartphone of me and my friends. I use the different filters and post photos on instagram so my friends and family back home can keep up to date with my life.

Vocabulary for Cue Card 6

set up – prepared
hands on – direct experience
awe inspiring – amazing
in the meantime – the time between now and something in the future
keep up to date – to be informed of the current situation

Talk about a person you know who learnt a foreign language. Please say

who is he/she
what was his/her motivation for learning the language
how frequently does he/she use it
and how do you feel about him/her
Who is he/she? I am going to talk about my aunt Tina. Aunt Tina comes from a multicultural family background, and is a polyglot , speaking French, Danish and Spanish fluently. She learnt French and Danish from her parents, and made the decision to major in Spanish at university. She completed her degree and later lived in Argentina for about ten years, where she met her husband, Pedro.
What was his/her motivation for learning the language? Growing up with different cultures, my aunt developed a fascination for languages, and it seemed she was picking them up with ease. When she was fourteen years old, her parents travelled with her to Spain for the summer holidays, and she realised she was able to comprehend most of what was being said to her and around her. Her knowledge of French was a huge leg up, due to the common linguistic roots between French and Spanish. I think she really identified with the culture there, and her interest in the language grew stronger over time.
How frequently does he/she use it? My aunt practises the language on a regular basis. Although she no longer lives in Argentina and her husband speaks a little French, they find it easier to communicate in Spanish. My aunt introduced the languages she knows to her children, and she was beside herself with joy when one of them expressed an interest in learning an additional foreign language in school. Sometimes, she would speak to her children in Spanish and they would respond in a different language. It is their way of learning new words and phrases!
and how do you feel about him/her? I find her inspiring. Learning languages is like a walk in the park for her, and I admire her courage to pursue her dreams and live life as she sees fit .

Vocabulary for Cue Card 7

Polyglot = someone who speaks more than two languages
Fascination = strong interest in
picking them up = (in this case) learning them
leg up = help
linguistic roots = linguistic origins
on a regular basis = regularly
beside herself with joy = extremely happy
a walk in the park = extremely easy
as she sees fit = the way she wants, as she believes is right for her

Describe you preferred location for studying. Please say

where is this place
what does it physically look like
why is it your favourite place to study
follow up question: Do other people you know use the same place to study?
Where is this place? I am going to talk about my favourite place to study. It is actually a public library. As a tour guide, I need to constantly increase and update my knowledge of the places I tour, and the library provides me with all the resources I need for that.
What does it physically look like? The public library I go to is quite big. It has a Victorian architecture and outside look to it, but it’s very modern on the inside. It offers a plethora of books on a variety of subjects, such as history, art, languages, and so on. Thereare plenty of tables and chairs throughout the library. Some chairs look more like armchairs an may be placed by large bay windows, although I prefer less exposed areas, to help me concentrate better. There is also an area with computers for people to use, as well as printers and scanners.
Why is it your favourite place to study? I find myself being more productive at the library. I believe that being surrounded by books really sparks motivation in me. The members of staff are all so friendly, and I feel like there is little that can distract me there. It is really the ideal place for me to complete my work without any interruptions. I enjoy the abundance of books and resources there. The history section is of particular interest to me , due to my job. There are plenty of books on local history, and I feel like there are always new facts and anecdotes for me to learn.
Follow up question: Do other people you know use the same place to study? I know people who use this library, but I don’t believe they go there to study. Many of them make use of the computers or borrow books rather than study. I see many people conduct research or focused on their own personal projects, but I do not know them personally.

Vocabulary for Cue Card 8

plethora = range
exposed = with nowhere to hide
productive = making good use of time by completing many tasks and actions
sparks motivation = inspires enthusiasm/motivation
abundance = large quantities
of particular interest to me = particularly interesting to me
anecdotes = small stories that relate to a main subject

Talk about a course which left an impression on you.

what course was it
where did you take that course
what was the course like
and why did it impress you
What course was it? I am going to talk about a course I took and which left a strong impression on me. That course was a Spanish course I took over the summer. I had studied Spanish in school but wanted to hone my skills.
Where did you take that course? It was an intensive and immersive language course at a language institution in a nearby town. It was delivered by a Guatemalan teacher, which meant I got insight into Guatemalan culture and idioms. The institution was only a twenty-minute drive from where I live. Very convenient!
What was the course like? The course was very engaging and inclusive. Our teacher used a myriad of media to teach us: films, videos. Books, magazines, recordings, songs, and more! It was truly immersive and I was completely hooked . The classes took place three times a week, and I would look froward to each class. Another aspect I truly appreciated about the course was the fact that she only spoke to us in Spanish, with the occasional English translations, where needed. It really forced us to think and produce in the language. It was great!
Why did it impress you? I was very impressed by this course because I never realised the power of immersive programmes. I sincerely feel like I got more bang for my buck than with other more traditional courses. I can certainly feel that my speaking skills, and my reading skills for that matter, have increased tremendously . It also taught me about the power of visuals in conveying messages, and that anything is possible when we put effort into it! I did not expect that level of improvement on my part, and I am very thankful for the course and, of course, the teacher!

Vocabulary for Cue Card 9

hone = sharpen
engaging = (in this case) catching my interest
myriad = range
hooked = (in this case) so exciting I want to keep doing it
bang for my buck = better value for the price you pay
tremendously = in large amounts, to a very large degree

Cue Card 10

Talk about a practical skill you have learnt.

what skill have you learnt
how did you learn it
and why is it an important skill
What skill have you learnt? I am going to talk about an important practical skill I learnt when I was young. It is a cooking skill I use today and which involves frying eggs.
When did you learn it? I believe I was about 12 years old when my mom called me to the kitchen. I was clueless about cooking, and quite frankly disinterested in the subject. But my mom, wise as an owl , said to me: “you may not find it interesting, but, believe me, you will find useful”. At the time I did not realise how right she was.
How did you learn it? She showed me exactly how to do it, and even let me try it out myself. The first time, I went too strong, and part of the eggshell fell into the pan. I felt so embarrassed and told my mom I was giving up. My mom was never the kind of person to beat around the bush . She essentially told me to stop making excuses, and pull myself together so I can try again. She didn’t do it in a malicious way. She just wanted to help me get back on the horse . The second time, I managed to do it properly. She congratulated me and let me try it a few more times.
And why is it an important skill? This skill is so very important, because it is one of the easiest meals to cook. It helps a lot when my schedule gets too busy for me to have the energy to cook anything else. It also inspired me to attempt to cook other dishes. When I mastered the skill, I thought to myself, if I can cook that, imagine what else I could make? It was a significant confidence boost for me

Vocabulary for Cue Card 10

clueless = have no idea, have no knowledge of something
wise as an owl = very wise person
beat around the bush = avoid saying what you think because it is uncomfortable
pull myself together = get over a negative emotional state
malicious = evil, meaning to hurt
get back on the horse = try again after a discouraging failure
confidence boost = an action that helps increase someone’s confidence/self-confidence

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Describe your Education: IELTS Speaking Part 1 Sample Answer

Updated On Jan 05, 2024

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Describe your Education: IELTS Speaking Part 1 Sample Answer

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In IELTS Speaking Part 1, to answer IELTS examiner’s questions in a natural and fluent way, you should focus on one idea only and then expand that idea into a long meaningful sentence using grammar patterns and vocabulary, which can help you get Band 8.0+ for IELTS Speaking.

Let’s practice it with some easy questions about a popular topic: Education.

Speaking Part 1

Here is the sample for “Describe your Education” topic:

1 What is the difference between the role of a teacher and a parent in the education of children?

I think the role of teachers is to impart knowledge and inspire students to learn. Parents, on the other hand, need to teach children how to behave properly and set an example for them to follow. If children encounter problems they should be able to consult both parents and teachers. In my country, from primary school to high school, each class is assigned a “head teacher” who would know the students very well and students can turn to this teacher for advice.

2 What suggestions would you give to teachers to improve education?

I think each teacher has a different style of teaching which may not work well for all students. Frankly a perfect teacher doesn’t exist. However, there are two things that all teachers should aim to achieve, which are knowledge and inspiration . Teachers should be able to provide accurate knowledge and inspire students to study. The latter is sometimes very difficult but they should at least try.

3 What is the best way to educate children in your opinion?

Children must go to school and also take part in extracurricular activities to become well-rounded people. Knowledge is important as it shapes your thinking and builds your ability to work. But interpersonal communication is just as important, so activities where children spend time together are also necessary. Hobbies are good to have too, as they keep children from being lonely.

4 How can we help children realize their talents?

Children need to be exposed to a variety of school subjects and activities before they can know what they’re really interested in. What’s important is that when they realise they have a certain talent, they should be allowed to nurture this talent and have a career using it.

5 Does the government provide enough support to education in your view?

There isn’t enough support yet, especially in remote areas where children don’t go to school or often drop out after a few years because the family can’t provide for them and they have to work when they reach a certain age.

Here are the vocabularies for “Describe your Education” with examples:

Impart: to give, convey, or grant from or as if from a store her experience Eg: The teacher is imparting wisdom and knowledge
Encounter: unexpectedly be faced with or experience (something hostile or difficult). Eg: She had an encounter with the toughest competitor of Sea High.
Consult: seek information or advice from (someone, especially an expert or professional). Eg: Consult the doctor before taking any medicine
turn to: approach Eg: She turned to her mother for advice
Inspiration: the process of being mentally stimulated to do or feel something, especially to do something creative. Eg: She is an inspiration to her sister
Extracurricular: (of an activity at a school or college) pursued in addition to the normal course of study. Eg: Her extra curricular activities include painting.
Well-rounded: (of a person) plump or curvaceous. Eg: She has a well-rounded body
Be exposed to: make (something) visible by uncovering it Eg: Don’t be exposed to sunlight
Nurture: care for and protect (someone or something) while they are growing. Eg: Nurture your hair often
drop out: stop participating or being involved in something. Eg: She dropped out of college

Related Cue Cards:

Describe an Interesting Story That you Heard or Read
Describe a Quiet Place
Describe An Interesting Animal You Have Seen
Describe a Program on Computer/A Mobile App on the Phone That You Use

Also check :

IELTS Speaking tips
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IELTS Speaking recent actual test
Sports Vocabulary IELTS
Work Vocabulary IELTS
Idioms for IELTS Speaking
IELTS Pronunciation Guide
Common English words in IELTS Speaking

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ESL Conversation Questions

Questions That Will Make You Speak

Are you a student? Which school do you attend?
Did you go to university? Where did you go? What did you study?
Do you like studying or doing homework? Why/Why not?
Who is/was your favourite teacher? Describe him/her.
Who is/was your best friend at school? Describe him/her.
What subjects are you good at/bad at?
Did you study abroad? What did you study? What did you like about it? / Would you like to study abroad?
Are getting good grades important? Why/Why not?
What are the qualities of a good student?
What do you think about home schooling?
Does education guarantee a good job? Why/Why not? Explain your reasons.
Do you think your country should spend more money on education? Why?
What do you think about tests and exams? Do you think it is necessary to get a good education?
What do you know/think about gap year? Would you like to have a gap year?
What do you think about learning new languages? How many languages should people learn?
How can we improve our education system?
Should education be free to everyone? Why/Why not?
Why do students cheat during exams? How should teachers react to it?
Do you think robots will one day replace the teachers in the classroom?
How has teaching changed in your country in the last few decades?

ESL Conversation Education

ESL Conversation Eductation – Use our handouts and worksheets to have an engaging discussion about education. Our ESL resources are free for everyone. We have collected the best ESL speaking practice handouts and contents for a variety of topics. The handouts and activities are online-friendly and flexible to meet all of your needs.

ESL Daily Conversation – Discussion Questions: Education

Level: Intermediate

Activity Time: 60 mins

20 interesting and thought-provoking discussion questions about education.

ESL Conversation – Education

ESL speaking handout for talking about education.

Time: 30 – 45 minutes

Level: Pre-intermediate/Intermediate

Check out Khan Academy for free online learning courses.

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IELTS speaking vocabulary about school and education

Home » IELTS speaking » IELTS speaking vocabulary about school and education

You may be asked questions about school and education in general. Read the following IELTS style question and answers below and pay attention to the words or phrases in bold. Use the ‘definitions’ section at the bottom of the page to check any meanings you are unfamiliar with.

Make a note of any new vocabulary and the best way to learn it is to use it!

IELTS speaking part 1 – style questions

Examiner: What did you enjoy most when you were at school?

Janet: School feels like a long time ago now, as I am currently at University, but I do remember really enjoying English lessons. We were lucky enough to have a native speaking teacher, which was usual, but it gave us the opportunity to be inspired by hearing authentic pronunciation and our teacher told very funny stories to keep us focused.

Examiner: Do you think a teacher should be friendly or strict?

Alexa: When I was at school, our teachers were ‘old-school’, strict and very traditional, so our lessons were teacher centred. As children we were not encouraged to ask questions or voice our opinions. However, today, thankfully, classes are more student centred, and encourage collaboration and I think a more friendly teacher would be more successful here.

Examiner: What’s the most difficult part of your study now?

Kamila: Well, for the most part, I’d say it’s encourage collaboration. I mean there are so many assignments , and students are always under a lot of pressure to meet deadlines. I am lucky as I don’t find exams too overwhelming. If you are well prepared, they are entirely predictable , and I can pretty much sail through them with only a bit of revision.

IELTS speaking part 2 – style question

Describe a subject you enjoyed studying at school.

You should say:

when and where you started studying it
what lessons were like
what made it different from other subjects

and explain why you enjoyed the subject.

Said: To be honest, I found school pretty challenging for a number of reasons. We moved house quite often back then, so I had to adapt to different teachers, learning expectations and to make new friends. However, the subject which I was always passionate about and determined to succeed in was French.

I started lessons when I was quite young, which is common in the UK, as learning languages is actively encouraged, but the standard and expectation was relatively low so lessons revolved around role plays asking for ice cream or bread! Our lessons involved a lot of writing and dictation which was hard, and I did struggle to see the point of this as what I really wanted to learn was how to communicate and be understood. Our vocabulary was based around the family, food, travel and school so It was quite useful but not the sort of things that children really want to talk about.

I was motivated as I had already visited France on holiday and so I could see for myself the possible benefits of being able to communicate and make myself understood. The breakthrough for me came when I was around 15 with a teacher called Mrs. Green.

She was half French herself, so she spoke beautifully and was rather glamourous too and her lessons were filled with laughter, games and stories although she was very strict as well. We were all expected to study hard and to succeed in exams. She was inspiring though because she loved her subject.

Personally, I have always enjoyed listening to languages, to the i ntonation and sound even if I do not understand. Once I could use the French I had learnt in school when I visited France and later studied there, the language came alive and all that hard work as a youngster paid off !

IELTS speaking part 3 – style question

Examiner: Do you think single sex schools are still relevant in today’s world?

Emilie: While today many would argue that traditional schools which only allow either girls or boys to study there seem rather outdated and old fashioned as this is not how ‘real’ society of the workplace operates. However, many league tables which rank schools in order of high exam results, have proved that single sex schools can be much better as there are less distractions and maybe students are more able to focus on learning and be proud of their achievements without having to compete with the opposite sex.

Examiner: What are the benefits of a boarding school?

Helene: As an alumni of a boarding school , I can see the upsides as well as the challenges. In some countries children as young as 8 are sent away to school, either because of the higher standard of education on offer, or because their parents may be working overseas.

Many of these schools offer a wide range of e xtra-curricular activitie s such as golf, photography or fashion as well as the core academic subjects. Children usually speak of forming lifelong friendships, with their peer group as well as teachers and there is a strong concept of shared experiences.

Examiner: What are the advantages of studying a distance learning course?

Lydia: For many people, especially students who work or need more flexibility, distance or remote learning is the ideal way to study. There are several benefits that immediately come to mind. Not only the cost, which is far less than it would be to attend a college with high tuition fees but the ability to study at your own speed.

It is usually agreed that some find that this method of learning suits them better than sitting in lectures or going to tutorials which demands more self-motivation and discipline.

Vocabulary words related to education and definitions:

authentic: real, true
old-school strict: traditional learning with punishments and controlling teachers
teacher centred : where the teacher is leading the class
encourage collaboration: learning together through discussions
pressure to meet deadlines: having to finish work by a certain time / date
assignments: homework or essays
sail through them: not to have to work hard and to find things easy
learning expectations: what the teacher expects from their student
role plays : acting out a situation to simulate or practice it
dictation: writing down what the teacher says, accurately and fast.
breakthrough: a new development
inspiring: something which makes you want to do better
intonation: the ‘singing’ sound of speech
paid off: was worth the effort
outdated: old fashioned
league tables: tables which rank the position of schools according to academic success
alumni: students who used to go to a certain school or college
boarding school: where students live at school during the term time
extra- curricular activities: anything NOT academic, eg sport, drama
peer group : students of your own age, in your class
remote: not being physically there / learning via computer

More IELTS vocabulary tutorials to help you prepare for your IELTS exam :

Vocabulary about climate change
Vocabulary about fashion and shopping
Vocabulary about advertising
Vocabulary about social media
Vocabulary about food and nutrition
Vocabulary about family and friends
Vocabulary about sport
Vocabulary about the Coronavirus

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ESL Conversation Questions about Education

ESL conversation questions about education. These questions are designed for students of intermediate to advanced level of English. Click here for more topics.

IELTS Speaking Lesson about Education

👇 take this lesson with you 👇, table of contents, ielts speaking vocabulary: education.

Fill in the gap with one word

Next week I am going to _____ the IELTS test .
At school you will get into trouble if you don’t _________ the rules

See answers

Next week I am going to take / sit / re-sit / re-take / pass the IELTS test.

The examiner gives the test Cambridge English write the test

To pass = to succeed

2. At school you will get into trouble if you don’t _ follow / obey / respect / stick to / keep to / abide by the rules

IELTS Speaking: Schools

Curriculum (n.)

Curricula (n.) Plural = subjects / lessons in a course

What do we call classes we do after school?

Extra curricular activities After school activities

Tests and Exams

I am going to _______ the IELTS test
sit / take
pass = succeed
fail = not to pass
re-sit / re-take / re-do = do / take again
To pass with flying colours = to pass with a really high score
To pass with merit = to pass very well
To pass with (a) distinction = to pass at the highest level
To flunk a test = to fail a test
I sailed through the test = it was easy
It was a breeze = it was really easy

Discipline (v.) (n.) = control, order, authority

Our form teacher would keep us in line = keep control over us
She was a no-nonsense teacher =doesn’t accept silly behaviour
Strict (adj.) = keeps strong control

The opposite of strict is ______ ?

Easy-going
Laid-back

“ Rules are there to be broken!”

_____ the rules

Follow _____
Stick to _____
Keep to _____
Break _____

Punishment

Detention = when you stay behind after class
Writing lines = writing the same line 100 times
Suspension = when you cannot go to school for a few days
Expulsion = when you are kicked out of the school or to expelled from school
Corporal punishment = hitting the student (caning, giving the slipper, slapping with a ruler)
knowledgeable
well-read = s.o. who reads a lot
tough but fair
easy-going = relaxed
nurturing = encouraging
ill-prepared = badly prepared
rambling = talking too much without a goal
inept = not competent, not good

All of the following can be used to describe a teacher who treats some students well and others badly.

discriminating
guilty of favouritism

IELTS Speaking: Learning

Bloom’s Taxonomy

This is a pyramid of learning levels.

The bottom level is the lowest level of learning, and the top one is the highest level of learning.

To learn deeply, you need to try and do activities that will move you up the levels.

If you are a teacher, find out more about how to use Bloom’s Taxonomy here

The table below shows you the kind of activities you can do to move up the learning levels.

The table below shows you some useful phrases you can use to talk about learning in your IELTS Speaking test .

IELTS Speaking: Listening task

IELTS Speaking: Listening Task

Click here to listen.

At school, I had a teacher who just used to make us [1] _______ everything by heart. I didn’t enjoy it that much, but sometimes we had to have a [2] ____ at using those ideas in a [3] ________, and I felt that was much more beneficial. You know, [4] _________ up other people’s ideas, and thinking out of the [5] ________, I found that really useful.

At school I had a teacher who just used to make us [1] learn everything by heart. I didn’t enjoy it that much, but sometimes we had to have a [2] go at using those ideas in a [3] debate , and I felt that was much more beneficial. You know, [4] weighing up other people’s ideas, and thinking out of the [5] box , I found that really useful.

What is the impact of technology on education?

Here are some ideas phrases you can use to talk about this.

Good or Positive Impact

We have more access to resources and information worldwide
Technology can create shortcuts (=a way to do things more quickly)
Learn more quickly
It has led to personalised learning
Motivate young people in particular
Unleash our creativity

Bad or Negative Impact

It can put older people off
It can be frustrating
It can fail
It can be distracting

To put someone off something = to discourage someone from doing it

With this question you can also consider the impact on different groups of people.

Old People

It can be off-putting It can make learning daunting or overwhelming

Make it fun They are digital natives, so it’s easy to use

There’s pressure to keep up with the latest changes There’s a steep learning curve

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DAILY ROUTINES in IELTS Speaking. Vocabulary and idioms you need to describe about your daily routines.

ENVIRONMENT in IELTS Speaking Learn different ways to protect our environment and discuss it with idioms and vocabulary in this lesson.

MEDICINE in IELTS Speaking Learn the COVID Vocabulary for IELTS Speaking and talk about Alternative Medicines using idioms and vocabulary.

SKILLS in IELTS Speaking Learn the collocations and adjectives to talk about skills we learn and need.

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IELTS Speaking Part 3: Topic Education

The topic Education often appears in IELTS Speaking Part 3. Here are sample answers to this topic.

1. Do you like the education system of your country? Yes, I feel that education system of my country covers almost all the basis but there is one area where we can improve a lot and that is curriculum.The syllabus is very old and needs an immediate change. Most of the students are learning certain things that are out of date and some are learning the things that are not that practical. 2. What changes do you want to make in the education system of your country? I would like to make a couple of changes to the system. The first one is that I want to make the education more practical rather than cramming hundreds of theory books. The second change will be in the curriculum. It needs to be more diverse and should develop a student holistically. 3. How many hours a student should read books apart from his studies? I think it is unfair to them. They are under a burden of so many books already. But reading is a great habit. If students can take out some time to read about great leaders or personalities, then I think it is a good idea. In my opinion, students should spend around 3 hours a week on reading material apart from the curriculum. 4. Which was your favourite subject in school time? My favourite subject was science. I liked the diversity in subjects and how the subjects such as physics, chemistry and biology were so different from one another yet so same. I used to be so active during my science class as we would learn new things every day.

5. Any subject that you didn’t like? I never liked mathematics. I used to get confused when I saw all the questions and calculations. That was the subject that I never understood completely and never scored well. I got a lot of headaches while solving the problems in math’s. 6. Which type of education is better, distance learning or regular schooling? In my opinion, both types of education have their advantages. If a person is in a job or a business, then distance education is the best solution for them. But if the student has ample time to study then he or she should go for the regular education.

speaking part 3

Pursuing A Dream

Woman Standing in Hallway While Holding Book

Student Loans

Florida’s School Book Ban

Learning Languages from a Textbook

Learning English

Benefits of Self-Study

Young People Studying

man opening his arms wide open on snow covered cliff with view of mountains during daytime

Advantages of Not Going to University

two children sitting on ground with dried leaves

Environment Education

man holding his chin facing laptop computer

Learning a New Language

student sitting on chairs in front of chalkboard

Students With Different Abilities

woman wearing white sweater carrying a daughter

Overprotecting Children

Reading Skills

Competitive Sports at School

Bullying at School

man in academic dress wearing mortar cap

The Importance of Going to University

black-colored Samsung Galaxy Android smartphone

Mobile Phones at School

four women sitting on black steel bench during daytime

White Privilege

Learning Foreign Languages in the Future

Religion At School

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Posted in in ESL Conversation Questions

1500+ ESL conversation questions for your classroom

Posted by by Cameron Smith
April 17, 2023
Updated June 1, 2023

ESL conversation questions are one of the best tools at an ESL teacher’s disposal. Giving your students the opportunity to share their thoughts via interesting discussions in English will help them fast track their English speaking skills. After all, one of the best ways to learn English is to speak it as much as possible.

In this guide, we’ll share how to use ESL conversation questions in the classroom to get the best results. And you’ll find links to over 1500 ESL conversation questions—printable guides that you can use to get everyone in your classroom talking.

What are esl conversation questions.

ESL conversation questions are English learning tools that help students practice their speaking skills, learn new vocabulary, and correct common mistakes. Using the right ESL conversation questions can create fun, lively discussions in the ESL classroom.

How do you use ESL conversation questions?

You can use ESL conversations to facilitate English speaking practice with your students. Here are some ways to use ESL conversation questions in the classroom and one-on-one sessions:

Group Speaking Exercises. You (the teacher) ask the class a question in English. Multiple students can respond in English at random. This method is a good ice breaker. It can also help ESL students witness and learn from each student’s mistakes.
Warm Up Speaking Exercises. Ask You may choose to do this before arranging your students in pairs. You can also have students focus on these simple warm-up exercises before you
Partner Speaking Exercises. Ask your students to get into pairs. Have them take turns asking each other questions and responding in English.
Individual Speaking Exercises. If you’d like to assign speaking practice as homework, you can also ask students to use ESL conversation questions at home. If you are remote teacher, students can also record themselves responding to these questions and submit them to you for remote-based assessment.

List of ESL conversation questions

ESL Conversation Questions about Animals
ESL Conversation Questions about Appearance
ESL Conversation Questions about Birthdays
ESL Conversation Questions about Business
ESL Conversation Questions about Childhood
ESL Conversation Questions about Community and Neighborhood
ESL Conversation Questions about Colors
ESL Conversation Questions about Cooking
ESL Conversation Questions about Countries
ESL Conversation Questions about Daily Routine
ESL Conversation Questions about Dating, Relationships, and Marriage
ESL Conversation Questions about Education, School, and University
ESL Conversation Questions about Employment and Work
ESL Conversation Questions about Environment
ESL Conversation Questions about Ethics
ESL Conversation Questions about Family
ESL Conversation Questions about Fashion and Clothes
ESL Conversation Questions about Food and Eating Out
ESL Conversation Questions about Football and Soccer
ESL Conversation Questions about Friends and Friendship
ESL Conversation Questions about Intelligence
ESL Conversation Questions about Games and Gaming
ESL Conversation Questions about Gender and Gender Roles
ESL Conversation Questions about Money
ESL Conversation Questions about Movies
ESL Conversation Questions about Music
ESL Conversation Questions about Religion
ESL Conversation Questions about the Olympics
ESL Conversation Questions about Travel
ESL Conversation Questions about Small Business
ESL Conversation Questions about Social Media
ESL Conversation Questions that use Simple Future Tense

ESL conversation questions books

ESL conversation question books can help you save time in the classroom and with lesson planning. These books are typically full of list of ESL conversation questions that you can print and use as exercise sheets with your students.

The best ESL conversation question books are:

500 Grammar Based Conversation Questions
67 ESL Conversation Topics with Questions, Vocabulary, Writing Prompts & More
1000+ ESL Discussion Questions for Teenagers: Interesting Conversation Topics for Teens
ESL Conversation Questions for Kids: 50+ Topics for English Conversation Class
1005 ESL Conversation Questions: For English Teachers of Teenagers and Adults Who Want to Have Better TEFL Speaking and Conversation Classes
1001 Canadian Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom

What are the best ESL conversation questions for beginners?

The best English discussion questions for beginners are those that focus on simple discussion topics with simple tense structures. For example, “What is your favorite song?” and “What is your favorite movie?” are perfect for beginner English learners.

Use these ESL conversation questions for beginners:

Movie Conversation Questions
Appearance Conversation Questions
Music Conversation Questions

What are the best ESL conversation questions for intermediate speakers?

The best English discussion questions for intermediate speakers focus on topics that require answers with complex sentence structures and reasoning. “What is your favorite food, and why do you like it so much?” and “What is your dream job, and why would you pick this as your career?” are two great examples of a simple question that requires additional reasoning and descriptive language.

Use these ESL conversation questions for intermediate English learners:

Money Conversation Questions
Career Conversation Questions
Personal Appearance Conversation Questions

What are the best ESL conversation questions for advanced speakers?

The best English discussion questions for intermediate speakers focus on topics that require in-depth answers with complex sentence structures, various tense structures, descriptive language, and reasoning. At this level, you may also benefit from introducing some controversial discussion topics; advanced English learners have the language skills required to participate in life discussions that go beyond the basics.

Use these ESL conversation questions for advanced English learners:

Artificial Intelligence and AI Conversation Questions
Ethics Conversation Questions
Business Conversation Questions

How are you using ESL conversation questions in your classroom?

As you know, students at every level can engage in any topic of discussion to practice their speaking skills. But some some English discussion topics are better suited to each learning level. Choose wisely based on the English level, likes, and needs of your students, and your classroom will be full of fascinating discussions in no time.

Share your best tips and tell us how you use ESL conversation questions in the classroom. And be sure to add your requests for future discussion topics in the comments below.

Cameron Smith

I'm an English Communication Coach based in Vancouver, Canada. I'm on a mission to help millions of people speak English with confidence. Thanks for visiting this site! If you want longer video content, please follow me on YouTube for fun English lessons and helpful learning resources!

Business Conversation Questions represented by a businessman holding a light bulb.

30 small business conversation questions

April 10, 2023

100+ ESL discussion topics for every English level

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IELTS Speaking Part 3 Questions – Education

In this post, you will see one of the most common IELTS speaking topics for part 3 (Education) and sample answers.

Explore Various IELTS Speaking Part 2 Cue Card Questions and Answers.

Please remember that in the actual test you should give honest answers and talk about your own experiences, thoughts, feelings and opinions. Do not try to memorise answers , as the examiners will probably be able to guess and you will lose marks.

However, you are able to make up information to extend your answers, but be sure that you are confident when speaking about the chosen topic and that it is believable.

TIP >> Listen to the questions the examiner asks you and think about the structure of the question. Are they asking your for your opinion? or to say how something has changed from the past to the present?

TIP >> Learn about the most commonly asked question types used in the part 3 questions. This will help you to identify how you should respond and what to look out for when you are practising.

TIP >> It is common for many people to say ‘I don’t know’ or to lose focus when they get a question they know little about. Always answer the questions and if you feel as though you don’t know about the topic, then buy yourself some time by saying; ‘I haven’t really thought about that before…. but in my opinion……’ then give your opinion, etc.

TIP >> Don’t try to answer the questions as quickly as possible, take your time and answer them to the best of your ability. Give your opinion, the reasoning behind it and support with specific examples.

Take a look at the questions and sample answers below on the topic of ‘Education ‘ >>

Q: Is higher education too expensive in your country?

A: I think that it is very costly to go into higher education in my country. They recently hiked the prices up, making it extremely difficult for most people to afford it. On the one hand, spending thousands on an education is worth every penny, but on the other hand, it can bring years of debt to a student and their family. In today’s society, no one is guaranteed to get a good job straight after university, so these course fee debts often continue to follow people around for life.

Q: Should all students pay for their university education?

A: In my view, many students should be entitled to have a free higher education, especially if they can’t afford the fees but have consistent high grades. For those who are high achievers getting a paid tuition to the university of their choice could be life-changing. For example in many countries in Europe, they offer free higher education to those who obtain high grades in high school, which encourages them to develop their learning and progress into a good profession.

Q: What advantages do universities bring to society?

A: I think that there are many positive things that universities can offer the communities around them. They bring students into the area for one, which means housing will be in demand. They will spend money on food, go out and books for their course, making the town or city a buzzing hub of student life. For the students they benefit from having a high level of education, which can then be translated into skills in the workplace, keeping society going with their knowledge.

Q: Which is more important, research or teaching?

A: I think that for those who prefer to research, they enter programmes for further education, like completing a Master’s degree or a PhD. This can develop a further understanding of a subject and allow the person to develop their research skills. Many people who complete these higher levels of education, also teach as a way of sharing their knowledge and gaining respect from their peers. You can’t really teach at that level without undertaking some sort of extensive research, therefore I see them of equal importance.

Q: How should students spend their summer vacations?

A: In my opinion, I think that students should spend some time relaxing during the summer break but should also continue to study and read. A better way to make use of all of that time off is to get an internship or other work experience that will be useful for their CV. They could also have a paid part-time job so that they can save money for the forthcoming school year. When completing a degree, it is really useful to gain experience from internships, save money and continue to study. Making the most of all of that free time is important. Being idle during that time period is not really going to help them to go anywhere in the future.

To practice with past questions, please look at Speaking Part 2 in more detail.

We hope you found this post useful in helping you to study for the IELTS Test . If you have any questions please let us know in the comments below or on the Facebook page.

The best way to keep up to date with posts like this is to like us on Facebook , then follow us on Instagram and Pinterest .

If you need help preparing for the IELTS Test, join the IELTS Achieve Academy and see how we can assist you to achieve your desired band score. We offer an essay correction service, mock exams and online courses.

Speaking Part 1 – Food

Learn about the common topics in the IELTS Speaking Test part 1. You can read sample…

An Activity You Do In Your Free Time – IELTS Cue Card

In this post, you will see a sample cue card question, high-level answer and feedback. Describe an activity that…

Education Conversation Questions

Warm-up Question: Are you trying to learn anything these days? Is there something you want to study?

Discussion Questions:

How important is education?
Does your country have a good education system? What are its strengths and weaknesses?
Which countries have the best schools and universities? Why are they considered good?
Is education only for the young? What do people learn when they are older?
Henry Ford said, "Anyone who stops learning is old, whether at twenty or eighty. Anyone who keeps learning stays young." Do you agree? Why?
Do you enjoy learning new things? Give an example if you can.
Does studying make you tired? Is it hard work? How can a student get energy for study?
What characteristics should a good teacher have?
Have you ever considered becoming a teacher? Why or why not?
Who has taught you a lot in your life?
Some people learn on their own. What things, if any, have you learned without teachers or formal education?

A woman who is wearing glasses and biting a pencil is staring at a computer, as if she is studying hard.

There are many education resources online including full university classes. Have you used the internet to learn? Give an example if you can.
Some people feel the education style of schools damages originality and creativity. What do you think?
How do you feel about tests and examinations? Are they necessary?
What's your learning style? Do you learn best by listening, reading, doing things, or by some other method?
Do you prefer to spend time with people of a similar level of education to yourself? Why or why not?

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150 ESL Conversation Starters and Questions (The Essential List)

Do you want your students to be excited to speak with you in English?

Do you want to make sure you always know where the conversation is going and what to say next?

You need engaging content, interesting conversation starters, and questions that really reel them in.

Join our mailing list to receive a free ESL teaching resource every week.

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This list of 150 ESL conversation starters will give you everything you need to make sure you always have something interesting to talk about and never run out of things to say!

150 ESL conversation starters essential list for lessons

Why Every Teacher Needs a List of Starters

Conversation topics for adults and teens, conversation topics for kids, conversation topics for beginners, weird and funny conversation starters, controversial conversations topics, additional tips for your conversation lessons, final thoughts.

If you want to improve your student’s speaking ability you need to master the art of conversation. You need to know how to get your students speaking , move the conversation forward, provide feedback and make it all feel natural. You also need engaging topics and that is where this guide comes in.

One of the problems that can face a teacher is knowing what to talk about. What do you do when you’ve finished talking about work, the weather and then realise that only 5 minutes have passed!

This guide has everything you need to make sure you never run out of topics and most importantly you always have something interesting to say.

It is a good idea to pick a particular topic for a class (or even have your student pick if you want more engagement from them). Once you have that topic then move through the questions, trying to get as much from each one as possible.

Browse our ESL teacher resources section for more tips and printable lesson materials.

Adults and teens usually know more about advanced topics than children (politics, religion, etc.) That being said, knowing more on these topics doesn’t necessarily translate to being able to speak about these things easily so don’t assume they can do everything. Be aware of your student’s level and be prepared to reframe a question if they are struggling to understand.

Where do you work?
Do you enjoy your job?
Do you use English for your job?
Tell me about your last job.
What do you think is the most difficult job in the world?
What do you think is the easiest job in the world?
Where would you work if you could pick any job?
Would you still work if you won the lottery?
Do you think robots will replace all of the jobs in the future?
Which kind of job should have the highest salary?

In this post, you’ll get 20 topics and activities for Business English lessons.

Do you listen to music?
When did you start listening to music?
Do you play a musical instrument?
What do you think the future of music will be like?
If you could meet any musician, who would it be?
Why do people like music?
If you could erase a musical genre, which would it be?
Do you think musical success comes from working hard or luck?
What was the first album you bought?
Have you ever downloaded music illegally?
What is a holiday?
Do you often go on holiday?
Where did you last go on holiday?
Where would you like to go on holiday next?
Do you prefer relaxing or having an adventure on your holiday?
Is it weird to go on holiday by yourself?
What is the best food you’ve eaten while on holiday?
Can you imagine what holidays 500 years ago were like?
Would you like to go on holiday to space?
What do you think the future of the holidays will be like?
What is technology?
What do you think of when you hear the word ‘technology’?
How has technology changed in the past?
How has technology changed your life?
Could you live without technology?
Find the full list of technology questions here

In order to engage a child in conversation, you have to enter their world. What is fun for them? What do they like to do? Using words/phrases like “wow”, “That sounds tasty”, “Awesome” can show you are listening to them and make things more fun which will get them saying more!

Do you have a pet?
What do you think pets do in the day?
What do pets eat?
Are cats better or dogs?
What is the best name for a pet?
Would you like a pet spider?
Would you like to be an animal? Which one?
Why do we have pets?
Do you prefer cute or fun pets?
What is the best present for a pet?
Do you like school?
What is your favourite subject?
What is your least favourite subject?
Who is your favourite teacher?
Why do people have to go to school?
Do you like homework?
What would you do if you were the headteacher?
How could schools be more fun?
How long are the summer holidays?
Can you learn and have fun at the same time?
What is your favourite movie?
Who is your favourite character?
Who is your least favourite character?
Do you like disney movies?
What was the last movie you saw at the cinema?
How often do you watch movies?
Do you wish you could live in a movie?
Why do you watch movies?
Do you prefer reading books or movies?
Do you watch any movies in English?

Keeping the topics simple for beginners is a must at the start. Talking about their hobbies and family can help as these are areas they may have already experience in talking about. If a student is really struggling then giving them phrases to use such as “I like …” can help get the ball rolling.

What do you like to do?
Do you do any sports?
What types of movie do you like?
Do you play video games?
What do you usually do with friends?
Is learning English a hobby or work?
Do you have any unusual hobbies?
Do you have enough time for your hobbies?
What is a common hobby?
What do you think is a boring hobby?
Do you live with your family?
How many people are in your family?
Are you close with your family?
How often do you see your family?
What do you do with your family when you see them?
Is your family important to you?
Which is more important, friends or family?
Who is the weirdest person in your family?
Are families less important nowadays than in the past?
What would happen if we didn’t have families?
Where do you live?
What is there to do in your city?
What is your place like?
What is your neighbourhood like?
Are there any parks near where you live?
Have you ever lived elsewhere?
How many rooms does your place have?
If you moved, where would you like to live?
Would you prefer to live in the city or country?
Would you like to live abroad?

Use information gap activities to help your students practice speaking: read our guide.

Nobody wants to speak about the same mundane topics, especially if they’re an advanced student. Being able to mix it up is a great attribute to have as a teacher. Not only will you have memorable lessons with these conversation starters but it will really test the ability of the students to think about topics they aren’t used to (instead of rolling off easy answers about familiar topics.)

Zombie Apocalypse Plan

What is your zombie apocalypse plan?
Who would you take with you?
What would be your weapon of choice?
What would you do if a friend got bitten by a zombie?
What would you do if you got bitten by a zombie?
What food would you take with you?
Do you think governments should have a zombie apocalypse plan?
Do you think everyone should have a zombie apocalypse plan?
Is a zombie outbreak a likely scenario?
Why do you think there are so many movies and TV series based on zombies?

Superpowers

If you could have a superpower, what would it be?
What do you think is the weirdest superpower in comic books?
Are some superpowers too powerful?
Would you like a superpower where you could turn things into gold by touching them?
What is the weakest superpower in a comic book?
Have we already seen every kind of superpower possible in a comic book?
Are there some people in the real world that have superpowers? (doctors etc)
Would you like a superpower where you could turn things into chocolate?
Would it be better to be super strong or super smart?
Would you like the power to travel through time?
If you were granted 3 wishes what would they be?
Is wishing for more wishes cheating?
Should there be any other rules for people granted wishes?
Have you seen any movies with a magic lamp?
Do you think there is a better object that could house a genie?
Why are we interested in stories of people having wishes?
Have any of your wishes come true in real life?
Do you make a wish when you blow out the candles on a cake?
Is it bad luck to tell someone what your wish is when blowing out the candles?
What other ways do people make wishes?

These are topics that you need to be careful with and use your judgement based on the student’s background. You need to wait until you know a student to find out what material is appropriate for them. That being said, If used correctly, then these can be really interesting and get the student thinking about “real issues”.

Death Penalty

What do you think about the death penalty?
Do you know which countries still use the death penalty?
Why do you think some countries use the death penalty?
Do you know of any famous executions?
Should the death penalty be outlawed?
If we removed the death penalty then what punishment should replace it?
What is the most humane form of execution?
What would your “last meal” be?
Does the fear of the death penalty reduce crime?
How has execution changed over the years?
What is abortion?
Should abortion be legal?
Why do you think some people are “pro choice”?
Why do you think some people are “pro life”?
What do you think of abortion in cases where the baby was conceived due to rape?
What do you think of abortion in cases where the Mother’s life is in danger (due to being pregnant)?
Should the father “get a say” in the matter of abortion?
What advice would you give to a family member who was thinking of getting an abortion?
Should people be allowed to protest against abortion?
What do you think the future laws on abortion will be?
What is corruption?
Is there corruption in your country?
Why does corruption exist?
Would you consider taking a bribe?
Would you consider offering a bribe?
Are some types of corruption better than others?
Which countries have the most corruption?
Which countries have the least corruption?
Are there any stories of corruption that you can remember?
Is it possible to get rid of corruption entirely?

Get a list of 110 “Would you rather” questions for your conversation lessons.

Here are some additional tips to make sure your students are getting the most out of their conversation lessons and will be excited about coming back for more. Some of these will take time to internalize and get right but be aware of them and experiment to get them just right.

Don’t feel like you have to stick rigidly to the list of conversation starters. If a question takes you down a different conversational thread then go with it. The important thing is that the student is talking, you can always return to “the script” later.

Correcting a student immediately can often be useful, but in conversation, it can really kill the flow as well as a student’s confidence if done too often. A good idea is to make notes of any major problems and then mention them after a particular section instead. On top of this, try not to interrupt a student once they are speaking. For each answer, try to milk everything out of them that you can before you have “your turn to speak”.

As well as the frequency of correction, consider the amount being corrected. Don’t feel like you have to correct EVERYTHING. Especially if a student is starting out and is a bit nervous. Pick a few problems areas and focus on that, if you mention too many things at once it can be overwhelming and can really lower a student’s confidence.

Be strict when a student gives you short answers. If a student gives you an answer like “yes” then force more out of them with “yes… because” or “no… but”. The idea is to get them using the language more.

Try to inject some personality when using these ESL conversation topics. It should feel more like a conversation rather than a robot giving an interview.

Some students will struggle with certain subjects as they just don’t know enough about the topic. If it’s a bit of a challenge then push through but if they can’t even talk about a topic in their native language then it may be an idea to move on to another subject.

Allowing a student to pick a topic can be a great way of engaging them more. This also has the added benefit of helping a younger student (such as a teenager) feel more empowered as they can make their own decisions.

Get 18 statesman tips on giving great conversation for teens and adults in this post.

There you have it!

All you need to make sure you never run out of things to say. Get these printed out as your go-to cheat sheets and bookmark this page so you can easily come back to them for future classes.

Hopefully, these ESL conversation starters and questions will spark your own ideas for topics you can use in class. If you are teaching one-to-one, you could even write niche topics especially for that student’s interests (e.g skateboarding, knitting or chess).

Remember, match the topics to the student’s level, keep it fun and once they start talking don’t get in the way!

3 thoughts on “150 ESL Conversation Starters and Questions (The Essential List)”

Very interesting! Thank you.

This is very useful for our speaking club. Thank you.

Glad to hear, enjoy! :)

IELTS Speaking Questions and Topics

Do you want to know the IELTS speaking questions and topics that are likely to come up in the test?

They do change regularly but there are certain types of topics that arise in various forms and we'll show you here what those are.

On the following pages you will find examples of IELTS speaking questions and topics from part 1, part 2, and part 3 of the speaking test

part 1 (see below)

You can also watch a video with examples of questions for the three parts of the test:

Try practising the questions with a friend, and remember to extend your answers . You can usually do this by giving reasons why. For example, if you say it was fun growing up in your home town, say why it was fun. Don't give one word answers.

You can get further tips for answering IELTS speaking questions in part 1 of the speaking test here.

You can also download these IELTS Speaking Questions here:

IELTS Speaking Questions Part One Download

IELTS Speaking Questions & Topics for Part One

Common topics.

These are common IELTS Speaking Questions so you should make sure you practice them regularly. Remember the test changes regularly so the types of questions around these topics will vary.

I’d just like to ask you some questions about your hometown.

Where is your hometown?
What was it like growing up there?
Has it changed much since you were a child?
What do you like most about living there?
What kinds of things can visitors to your hometown go and see?
Do you think you will live there when you are older?

I’d like to ask you some questions about your home.

Do you live in an apartment or a house?
Is it a large apartment/house?
Who do you live there with?
What is your favourite room in your apartment/house?
Is it a quiet or noisy place to live?
What can you see from the windows in your apartment/house?
If you could change anything about your apartment/house, what would you change?

I’d just like to ask you some questions about your studies.

What are you studying?
Why did you choose that particular course?
What is your favourite subject?
Are you friends with many other students on your course?
What job would you like when you have completed all your studies?
Will you have to do further studies in the future?

I’d just like to ask you some questions about your work.

What work do you do?
What do you enjoy most about your work?
What are your main duties?
Is there any other work you would like to do in the future?
What do you normally do when you finish work everyday?
Will you have to do more training for your work in the future?

IELTS Speaking Sample Questions for Part 3

View IELTS speaking sample questions for part 3 of the test. Questions in this part are of a more abstract nature than parts 1 and 2.

IELTS Speaking Environmental Problems for Part 3

Sample answers for IELTS speaking on environmental problems. Read a sample part 3 answer for a set of questions about environmental issues.

IELTS Speaking Part 2 Sample: Listen to a candidate taking the test

Listen to an IELTS speaking part 2 sample audio, with comments on the performance of the candidate.

IELTS Speaking Samples: Questions and Model Answers

IELTS speaking samples to help you learn the best way to answer questions from this part of the exam. Questions and answers from parts 1, 2 and 3 of the test.

IELTS Speaking Long Turn Samples

IELTS Speaking Long Turn Samples: View examples answers for IELTS Part 2 speaking topics

Speaking Test For IELTS

View a complete speaking test for IELTS - Many more speaking tests and practice exercises available to improve your speaking.

IELTS speaking questions with answers

These IELTS speaking questions with answers will help you to successfully prepare for parts 1,2 and 3 of the speaking test

Listen to an IELTS speaking sample of a candidate taking the test

Listen to a live IELTS Speaking Sample - hear recordings of candidates taking IELTS practice tests, with assessments of their answers.

IELTS Sample Speaking Test - Education

View an IELTS sample speaking test on the topic of education.

Full IELTS Speaking Test Example

Full IELTS speaking test example including questions for parts 1, 2 and 3. View more sample tests on the following pages.

IELTS Speaking Examples - Answers for Part 2 of the Test

View IELTS Speaking Examples for Part 2 of the speaking test. Sample questions with example answers.

IELTS Speaking Tips

Essential IELTS Speaking Tips to help you achieve the score you need in the IELTS Exam first time!

Sample IELTS Speaking Test - Teaching & Education

View a sample IELTS speaking test to help improve your score in the exam. This is on the topic of teaching and education.

Common IELTS Speaking Topics and Questions for Part Two

View IELTS speaking topics for part 2 of the test. In this section you have to talk on a topic for 2 minutes.

IELTS Speaking Part 3 Samples: Questions and Answers

These IELTS speaking part 3 samples give you examples of the kinds of answers you can give in the third part of the IELTS speaking test.

Full IELTS Speaking Test - The Environment

View an IELTS speaking test on the topic of the environment. In parts 2 and 3, the topics are usually connected in some way.

IELTS Speaking Part 2 Sample Answers

These IELTS speaking part 2 sample answers cover a mix of topic that may come up in the long turn section of the test.

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The BIG List of IELTS Speaking Questions [by topic]

Posted by David S. Wills | Jun 16, 2018 | IELTS Tips , Speaking | 1

Below you will find dozens of IELTS speaking questions. These are arranged by topic and are perfect for IELTS students who want to do some speaking practice . Use these to help you prepare for the real IELTS speaking exam. I’ve included two useful videos from my YouTube channel that include sample answers. If you find them helpful, consider subscribing to the channel.

If you want to learn more about IELTS Speaking Part 2, check out my comprehensive guide here . There’s a similar list of writing questions here .

Family & Relationships

Tell me something about your family.

What do you like doing most with your family?

Who are you close to in your family?

In what way is your family important to you?

Describe a close friend.

You should say:

How long you have known this person
How you met
What kind of person he/she is

and explain why you like him/her.

In what ways have families changed in the last hundred years?

Should we rely heavily on our families or is it better to try to be independent?

The elderly are sometimes considered the wisest members of society. What do you think we can learn from them?

What do you expect from a good friend?

Are friends as important to you as family?

Do you think friendships change as we get older? How?

Health and Sport

What do you do to keep fit?

Are you good at sport?

What sports do you play?

What is the most popular sport in your country?

Describe an exciting competition or sporting event you have witnessed.

What the competition or sporting event was
When and where it took place

and explain why it was exciting.

What are the best ways to keep fit?

Do you think most people consider exercise a chore or do they find it fun?

What is the most popular form of exercise in your country?

Do you think people in your country are less healthy than they used to be?

How can we encourage young people to stay healthy?

Should governments intervene to force people to be healthier?

Studies and Work

Do you work or are you a student?

Why did you choose that course or job?

What is the most difficult thing about your studies or job?

Describe your dream job.

What qualifications or experience you would need
What the job would involve
What you think the most difficult thing about the job would be

and explain why it is your dream job.

Do you think science subjects are more useful than arts subjects?

Are students mature enough to choose what to study themselves or should their parents decide for them?

In your country, does having a university education help you into a better career?

Do you think older or younger workers are more motivated?

How can managers increase motivation among their workforce?

Are people more motivated if their job involves helping others?

Environment

Tell me about your country’s climate.

What’s your favourite kind of weather?

Does the weather influence your mood?

Is it worse to feel too hot or too cold?

Describe your favourite season.

What the season is and when it occurs
What the weather is like during this season
What your typical activities are during this season

and explain why it is your favourite season.

Are people in your country concerned about protecting the environment?

Does the responsibility for protecting the environment lie with governments or with individuals?

Does it help to educate young people on being green?

What effects does pollution have on the environment?

Do you think we pollute more now than we did 50 years ago?

What do you think will happen if we do not reduce current levels of pollution?

Communication

What’s your mother tongue?

What other languages do you speak?

What do you think is the best way to keep in touch with friends?

Do people keep in touch differently now compared to 50 years ago?

Describe a language other than English that you would like to learn.

What the language is
Where it is spoken
What you think would be difficult and what would be easy about learning the language.

and explain why you would like to learn it.

Is it considered important in your country to learn foreign languages?

What, in your opinion, is the best way to learn a language?

Why are some people seemingly better at learning languages than others?

How do people in your country feel about English being the world language?

Do you think the culture of English-speaking countries, as well as the English language, dominate the world?

Why do you think people feel it is important to continue to speak their local languages?

What do you use the internet for?

Does everyone have access to the internet in your country?

Do you think older people are scared of new technology?

Do you think young children should have mobile phones?

Describe a piece of electronic equipment that you find useful.

What the piece of equipment is
When and where you got it
What you use it for

And explain why you find it useful

What have been the most significant technological developments of recent years?

In what ways have these developments changed society for the better and for the worse?

Are people in your country nostalgic about life before technology?

Why do you think some people claim scientists interfere too much with nature?

Do you have anything against animal testing?

Is scientific progress always for the greater good?

What are your hobbies?

What is your favourite musical instrument?

Do you prefer action films or comedies? Why?

Do you think it is important to read novels and poetry? Why?

Describe a hobby you enjoy.

How long you have been doing it
How often you do it
What benefits you get from it

And explain why you enjoy it.

Do you think men and women tend to have different types of hobbies?

Why do some people get obsessed with their hobby?

Do you think hobbies that keep you fit are better than hobbies that you can do sitting down?

Do you think it can be a disadvantage to have too much free time?

Should people feel a duty to do something constructive in their free time?

Do people have more free time now than in the past?

What is your most vivid childhood memory?

Are you still in touch with your childhood friends?

What was your favourite toy when you were a child?

Is it important for children to have fun? Why?

Describe a happy childhood memory.

When and where the incident you remember happened
Who you were with
What happened exactly

And explain why it is a happy memory.

Do you think people often idealize their childhoods?

How does a person’s childhood influence what kind of adult they become?

When does a child become an adult, in your opinion?

Do you agree with the saying, “Children should be seen and not heard”?

Is it good for children to be exposed to frightening and sad experiences or should they be protected from these as far as possible?

Are children in your country generally well brought up?

Tell me about your hometown.

In what ways has your town or city changed since you were a child?

How could your town or city be improved?

Are there any traffic problems where you live?

Describe a place that you enjoy visiting.

Where that place is
What you can see and do there
How it has changed since you first visited it

and explain why you enjoy visiting this place.

Is it only children who experience homesickness?

Do you think it’s better for children to grow up in the city or the country?

Why do some people retire to the countryside?

Are people from your country patriotic?

Why do people often feel proud of where they come from?

Does intense patriotism have any disadvantages?

What is the most important festival in your country?

Do you think this festival will still be as important in the future?

Tell me how weddings are celebrated in your country.

What are some forms of traditional dancing in your country?

Describe a festival that you enjoy.

When the festival occurs
Where it occurs
What happens during it

and explain why you enjoy the festival.

Are historical sites in your country popular with visitors?

Is it more important to preserve historical sites or make way for the developments of the future?

What do you think will happen to your country’s historical sites in the future?

What is ‘culture’ to you?

Do you think that it is important for a society or culture to have a sense of continuity with the past?

How will your country’s culture have change in fifty years’ time?

Is your country popular with tourists?

What sights or activities would you recommend to a tourist visiting your town or region?

Do you enjoy active holidays?

Tell me what your ideal holiday would be.

Describe a memorable holiday.

When you went on this holiday
Where you went
What you did

And explain why it is memorable.

Do you think it’s true that travel broadens the mind?

Do young people and older people benefit differently from travelling?

How can you make sure you get the most from your travels?

What are the positive impacts of tourism?

What about the negative impacts of tourism?

How has tourism impacted tourist sites in your country?

About The Author

David S. Wills

David S. Wills is the author of Scientologist! William S. Burroughs and the 'Weird Cult' and the founder/editor of Beatdom literary journal. He lives and works in rural Cambodia and loves to travel. He has worked as an IELTS tutor since 2010, has completed both TEFL and CELTA courses, and has a certificate from Cambridge for Teaching Writing. David has worked in many different countries, and for several years designed a writing course for the University of Worcester. In 2018, he wrote the popular IELTS handbook, Grammar for IELTS Writing and he has since written two other books about IELTS. His other IELTS website is called IELTS Teaching.

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December 21, 2020

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July 13, 2020

Describe a Meal [IELTS Speaking]

July 31, 2023

Thanks again appreciate your hard work sir …

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1000 IELTS Speaking Questions (Updated 2024)

If you’re preparing for the IELTS Test, it’s important to know what IELTS Speaking questions might come up. In this article, we will provide an overview of the different parts of the Speaking test, as well as real questions from past exams.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

The examiner will ask you questions about yourself and your life. These IELTS Speaking questions are usually easier to answer than the other two parts. The good news is all of the questions are about, and you are the world-leading expert on the topic of you.

Some examples of questions are:

-Can you tell me where you live?

-Do you work or study?

-What do you do in your free time?

To learn more about how to answer these types of questions, watch the following video:

Part 2: The ‘Long Turn’

The examiner will give you a topic card. You will have 1 minute to prepare your response. Then you will speak for 1-2 minutes on the topic. Don’t worry, the examiner will stop you when you reach 2 minutes.

The topics are random and cannot be predicted, but they are normally topics that anyone in the world can talk about.

Here are some examples of Part 2 IELTS Speaking questions that have been asked in previous years:

-Describe a time when you were really proud of yourself.

-Talk about a hobby that you enjoy.

-Tell me about a place that you have visited that you really liked.

Part 3: Discussion Questions

The examiner will ask you more detailed questions about the topic from Part 2. They may also ask you about other interrelated topics. They are normally on abstract IELTS Speaking questions, and resemble the kind of ‘academic’ questions you might get asked in IELTS Writing Task 2.

Here are some examples of questions that have been asked in previous years:

-What are the advantages and disadvantages of taking up a new hobby?

-Do you think people should return to their hometowns after finishing school or university?

-What are the benefits of living in a big city?

Below are some example questions from real tests. DO NOT prepare answers for these IELTS Speaking questions . The IELTS test is not a test of memorization. Use these IELTS Speaking questions to practice and familiarise yourself with the test.

Image: Beige-Playful-Illustration-Public-Speaking-Skill-Infographic-1-410x1024

Part 1 IELTS Speaking Questions

Accommodation

Let’s move on to talk about accommodation. Tell me about the kind of accommodation you live in.
Do you live in a house or a flat?
Is it a big place?
Does the place you live in have many amenities?
What do you like about living there?
Is there anything you would like to change about the place you live in?
How long have you lived there?
Do you plan to live there for a long time?
Is there a garden in the place you live in?

Part 2 IELTS Speaking Questions

Describe an advertisement that persuaded you to buy a product. You should say:

What advertisement it was
Was it shown on TV, radio or newspaper
What was good about that advertisement

Explain why you think that advertisement made the product seem attractive.

A Challenging Thing You Did

Describe a challenging thing you have done. You should say:

when you did it
why you did it
how you handled this challenge

and explain why you thought it was challenging.

A Person You Know

Describe an old person that you know. You should say:

What your relationship is with this person
How often do you see them
What people think about this person

Explain why you like them.

Describe a child that you know and like a lot. You should say:

Who the child is
How do you know them
What do they enjoy doing

Explain why you like them a lot.

Describe someone who has had an important influence on your life. You should say:

Who the person is
How long you have known him/her
What qualities this person has

Explain why they have had such an influence on you.

Describe a person that you think is very interesting. You should say:

Who is this person
How you met them
What they like to talk about

Explain why this person is very interesting.

Describe a (very) intelligent person you know. You should say:

who is this person
when and where you (first) met them (him or her)
what this person does in life (e.g., work/ study)

and explain why you think this person is intelligent.

Describe your favourite teacher from school. You should say:

What school he/she taught at
What he/she looked like
What subject he/she taught you

Explain why you remember this teacher so well.

Describe your favourite childhood friend. You should say:

who he/she is
where you met each other
what you often did together

and explain what made you like him/her.

Describe a person you know who loves to grow plants (vegetables, fruits, flowers). Please tell me:

what they grow
where they grow them

explain why they enjoy growing plants

Describe a present or gift you have given someone. You should say:

Who you gave it to
What kind of present it was
How it compared to other presents you have given

Explain why you decided to give this particular gift.

Describe a present or gift someone gave you that you really liked. You should say:

Who gave it to you
Why you were given it

Explain why you liked it.

Describe a person who taught you something important. You should say:

who this person was
what they taught you
how they taught it to you

and explain why you think what they taught is important.

Describe an interesting animal you have seen. You should say:

What animal it was
When and Where you saw it
And explain how you feel about this animal

and explain why you think this animal is interesting.

Talk about a painting you would like to have in your home. You should say:

how you know about it
how much it would cost you

and explain why you want to have it in your home.

A Time When Someone Apologised To You

Describe a time when someone apologised to you. You should say:

when this happened
what you were doing
who apologised to you

and explain why they apologised to you.

Talk about a book you are reading now or have read recently. You should say:

How and why you got it
How long it took you to read it, or how long you have been reading it
What kind of book it is

And say if you would like to read something else similar or not, and why

Talk about a book you have never read but would like to read. You should mention:

How well-known it is
Why you would like to read it
Why you have never read it before

And say how you think it will compare to other books you have read

Talk about a book or novel you recently read. Please tell me:

Who wrote this
What it is about
Explain if you enjoyed reading it

And why do you think you will read the book again or not?

Describe a building that you particularly like. You should say:

Where the building is
What it looks like
What you can do there

Explain why you like this building.

Describe a small business you want to start. You should say:

what business it would be
when you want to start it
why you have not started it yet

and explain why you want to start this business.

Describe a successful small business that you know about. You should say:

what business/company it is
what this business does
how you know about this business

and explain why you think this business/company is successful.

Describe a positive change in your life. You should say:

what the change was about
when it happened
describe details of the change that happened

and describe how it affected you later in life.

Describe your favourite piece of clothing. You should say:

Where you got it
Do you often wear it
When you wear it

And explain why it is your favourite piece of clothing.

Describe a uniform you have worn (such as a school or company uniform). You should say:

what it looked like
when and where you needed to wear this uniform
who paid for this uniform

and explain how you felt about that uniform.

Describe your favourite city or a city you have visited that you like very much. You should say:

What is its name and where it is
when you visited it.
why you liked it

And the major attractions in this city are

Describe an organisation or a company that you know. Please say

How big is it?
Do you find this company to be successful? Why?
What can you say about the working environment there?

And if you would like to work there.

Describe your favourite part of the day. You should say:

What time of day this is
What you like to do at this time
Who you are usually with

Explain why this is your favourite part of the day.

Describe an important decision you have made. You should say:

what the decision was
why you made that choice
who helped you make the choice

and explain why the decision was so important.

Electronic Devices

Describe a useful electronic device you would like to own. You should say:

how it would help your life
if it would be expensive to buy

and explain why you would like it.

Describe a piece of electronic equipment that you have. You should say:

what you used it for
how long you have used it

and describe why it is important to you

Describe a piece of electronic equipment that you find useful. You should say:

how you learned to use it
how long you have had it

and explain why you find this piece of electronic equipment useful.

Entertainment

Describe a comedian that you think is very funny. You should say:

Who the comedian is
Where they usually perform
Who likes to see the comedian

Explain why you think this comedian is very funny.

Describe a TV show that you enjoy. You should say:

What type of show it is
How often it is on
How popular it is with other people in your country

Explain why you like it.

Describe a performance you enjoyed watching. You should say:

what the performance was
when and where you watched the performance
who was performing (or who performed)

and explain why you enjoyed the performance.

Environment

Describe an environmental problem or event. You should say:

Where is it happening
What problems it causes

And what do you think will happen in the future regarding this event.

Describe a type of exercise that you like to do. You should say:

What the exercise is
When you do it
Where you do it

Explain why you like this particular exercise.

Exciting Experience

Describe an exciting experience you’ve had. You should say:

when it was
where you were
what it was

And explain what made this experience especially exciting.

Talk about the last time your whole family got together. You should mention:

Where you met
What you did together
How long have you spent together

And say if you would like to do the same thing again soon or not, and why

Describe a family member that you get on well with. You should mention:

What their personality is like
What things they like doing
If they have any strong dislikes

And say why you think you have a good relationship

Describe one of your relatives. You should say:

What that person looks like
What that person’s character is like
What they are doing at the moment

And say which other relative of yours they are most similar to

Describe a family member you spend a lot of time with. You should say:

what you usually do together
what kind of person he/she is

and explain why you spend the most time with him/her.

Describe a famous food from your hometown or country. You should say:

What it tastes like
When and how it is usually eaten

And say why you think it is famous

Describe a meal that you had that you remember well. You should say:

Where the meal was
Why you had the meal
Who you went with

Explain why you remember this particular occasion.

Describe a meal that you ate out. You should say:

Where you went
What you ate

Explain why you remember this meal.

Describe a friend who has played an important part in your life. You should say:

How you met this person
How long you have known him or her
The kind of things you do or have done together

And explain why this person has been important in your life

Describe a friend you had in primary school. You should say:

What that person was like
How long you were friends for
What things you did together

And say whether you are still in contact with that person or not, and why

Describe a piece of furniture that you own. You should say:

where you bought it
how you use it

and explain why you like it.

Describe a garden or park you enjoyed visiting. You should say:

where it was
what you did (or were doing) there

and explain why you liked it.

Describe a present that you gave someone. You should say:

Why you decided to give them a present
Why you chose that present

And say how that present compares to other presents you have given that person or other people.

Describe your (or your friend’s) experience with an illness or injury. You should say:

What it was
When it happened
How you (or your friend) handled it

and say how you feel about it now.

Describe something healthy you enjoy doing. You should say:

What you do
Who do you do it with

and explain why you think doing this is healthy.

Describe an article you read in a magazine or on the Internet that could help people improve their health. You should say:

when you read it
where you read it
what it was about

and explain why (you think) it could improve people’s health.

Describe a time when you helped someone. You should say:

When you helped
How you helped
How you felt after helping

And if you will help them in the future.

Describe a historical place that you have visited. You should say:

what kind of place it is
where it is located
what is the historical significance of the place is

and describe your experience of the place.

Talk about a leisure activity you did when you were a child. You should say:

How you first became interested in it
How long you did it, or have been doing it for
Why you enjoyed doing it

And say if you have become more or less interested in that hobby since you were a child, and why.

Talk about an activity you like doing when you are on holiday. You should say:

Where do you usually do it
Why do you enjoy it

And say whether you also enjoyed doing that when you were a child or not, and why

Talk about somewhere you went on holiday. You should say:

How you got there
What activities you did there
Who you went with

And say if you would recommend that holiday to a friend or not, and why

Talk about your dream holiday. You should say:

Where you would like to go
What kind of accommodations you would like
What activities you would like to do

And say if you ever think you will go on a holiday like that or not, and why

Talk about your plans for your next long vacation. You should say:

Where do you want to go
Who do you want to go there with
What do you want to do when you get there

And say how likely you are to do what you have planned and why.

Describe a house or apartment you would like to live in. You should say:

where it is / Where it would be
what you would (like to) do there
who you would (like to) live therewith

and explain why you would like to live in this place.

Describe an important building in your hometown or city. You should say:

where it is
what it looks like
what it is used for

and explain why you think it is important.

Describe a change that could improve your local area. You should say:

what the change would be
how this change could be made
what problems are causing the need for this change

and explain how this change would improve your local area.

Describe someone who has had an important influence in your life. You should say:

and explain why this person has had such an influence on you.

Describe a website that you often use. You should say:

what type of website it is
how you found out about it
what it allows you to do, and why you find it useful.

And how it compares to other similar websites.

Talk about one method of learning a foreign language you have used. You should say:

What you did
How long have you used this method for
How it compares to other methods of learning a language

And say if you will use that same method in the future or not, and why

Talk about an English language book you have read or used. You should say:

Why you bought or used that book
What you learned from using it
If it was difficult or easy to use

And say if you would use a similar book again or not, and why

Talk about a language test you have taken. You should say:

Where you took the test
How long it took
What skills and language knowledge you were tested on

And say if you think the test was a good indicator of your language level or not, and why.

Describe an important lake/river in your country. Please tell me:

how big/long it is

explain why it is important

Describe a time you were late for something. You should say:

why you were late
how people reacted to you being late

and explain what happened because you were late.

Describe the most useful household appliance that you have. You should say:

How it works
How life would be without it

And explain why it is so important to you.

Describe an occasion when you forgot something important. You should say:

what you forgot
how important it was
Some possible reasons why you forgot it

And if you think this will happen again.

Describe a happy childhood event. You should say:

Who was involved
How you felt at the time

Mobile phone

Describe a time when you couldn’t use your mobile phone. You should say:

where it was
what you were doing at this time

and explain why you were not able to use your mobile phone.

Describe what you would do if you received a very large amount of money. You should say:

who you would share it with
what you would buy
what else you would do

and explain how you would feel about getting so much money.

Describe a special day out that cost you little money/did not cost you much. You should say:

when the day was
where you went
how much you spend

and explain how you feel about the day.

Describe something (special) that you saved money to buy. You should say:

how long it took you to save enough money to buy it
why you wanted to buy this thing
how you got (or, earned) the money

and explain how you felt when (or, after) you bought it.

Talk about a musical instrument you would like to be able to play but have never tried. You should say:

What the instrument looks like
What it sounds like
What kinds of people it is popular with

And say if you think you will ever try to play that instrument or not, and why

Describe your favourite song. You should say:

What is the name of the song
What the song is about
When you first heard the song

Explain why it is your favourite song.

Describe an interesting piece of news that you have recently read about or heard about. You should say:

what the story was
who was involved in the story
where you read or heard about this story

and explain why this news story was interesting to you.

Describe some good news that you recently received. You should say:

What the news was
How you got the news
Who else you told about it

Explain why this was good news.

Describe a person who is often in the news and who you would like to meet. You should say:

who is this person is
how do you know him/her
why he/she is often in the news

and explain why you would like to meet him/her.

Describe people that you know and believe to be very good parents. You should say:

Who they are
Why do you think they are good parents

And explain what it requires to be good parents.

Describe the best party you have been to. You should say:

whose party it was
who was there
what happened at the party

and explain what made it so enjoyable.

Talk about a birthday party you can remember well. You should say:

How you celebrated
Who you were with
Why do you remember that day

And say how it was different from other birthdays you have had before or since

Describe a typical festival or celebration in your country. You should say:

When it usually happens
What it is celebrating
What people do

And say if that is your favourite celebration or not, and why

Describe your favourite festival or celebration. You should say:

What time of year it is
Why do you like it
What you usually do

And say how that festival or celebration compares to others in your country or abroad.

Describe a crowded place you’ve been to. You should say:

when you go there
where the place is (or was)
who you went therewith

and explain how you felt about the place.

Talk about one thing you are going to do next weekend. You should mention:

Where you are going to do it
Who you are going to do it with
Any equipment you need to do it

And say whether you are looking forward to it or not and why

Talk about one thing you are planning to do after you pass the IELTS test. You should say:

When you think you will do it
Why do you want to do it
How long you have had that plan

And say whether there are any other options for what you could do which might be just as good.

Talk about a goal or ambition you have. You should say:

When and why you first discovered you had that goal or ambition
What you need to do to make it come true
What your next step needs to be

And say if you think you will achieve that goal or ambition or not, and why

Presents or Gifts

Describe a photograph that you like. You should say:

Who is in the photograph
When the photograph was taken
Where the photograph is

Explain why you like the photograph.

Describe something which is produced in your country, such as food, a handicraft, or a car. You should say:

how it is made or produced

and explain why your country produces this thing.

Describe your favourite book. You should say:

When you read the book
What the book is about
Why did you read it

Explain why this book is your favourite.

Describe a website that you visit a lot. You should say:

What is the website about
How you found the website
Who else you told about the website

Explain why you visit the website a lot.

Restaurants

Describe a restaurant or a cafe you often go to. You should say:

Where it is
What kind of services are provided
What kind of food do you like there/ What kind of food is famous?

And say why you like it.

Describe a traffic rule or law you know about. You should say:

if you follow this rule or law

and explain why this rule is important.

Describe a rule you had to obey when you were in school. You should say:

what the rule was
if you agreed with the rule
why the rule existed

and what would happen if students broke the rule.

Describe a school that you are attending or attended in the past. You should say:

What it looks like from the outside
What it looks like inside
What facilities it has

And say if you think it is a good school building or not, and why

Talk about a subject you would like to study in the future. You should say:

Why do you want to study that subject
What things about that subject do you find particularly interesting
Where it is possible to study that subject

And say if you think you will start studying it soon or not, and why

Describe an area of science that you are interested in. You should say

What you can learn from it
When you started becoming interested in it

And explain how this area of science helps you

Describe a scientific subject that you learned about in high school. You should say:

what subject it was
who taught you this subject
what you learned from it

and explain how this subject helped you in your life.

Describe a shopping street in your hometown. You should say:

What things you can buy there
What are the most popular shops
Any changes there have been over the years

And say if you think shopping there will become more or less popular in the future, and why.

Describe a shop in your hometown or the place you are living now. You should say:

What it sells
What are the advantages of shopping there are

And, if you think it will be popular or not in the future, and why

Social Problems

Describe a problem in your city. You should say:

how serious it is
what causes this problem

and say what can be done to solve or reduce the effects of this problem.

Something Difficult To Use

Describe something you bought that was difficult to use at first. You should say:

why you bought it

and explain why it was difficult to use at first.

Talk about a sport you like doing or watching. You should say:

Why you are interested in it
What equipment and skills are needed for it

And say if you think it is an easy sport to do or not, and why

Talk about a sport many people enjoy, but you have never tried. You should say:

What equipment is needed for it
What some of the rules are
What kinds of people this sport is popular with

And say if you think you will do this sport in the near future or not, and why

Talk about a sport that interests you, but you have never tried. You should say:

Where it is usually played
What kinds of people usually play it
Why it interests you

And say if you think you will ever do this sport or not, and why

Describe a sporting event you attended. You should say:

What kind of sport is was
How it compared to other events you’ve been to
How often it takes place

Explain why you consider this event to be of interest.

Describe a sport that you would like to try. You should say:

Which sport it is
Where you could do the sport
Who you could do it with

Explain why this sport would be good to try.

Describe the best teacher you have had. You should say:

what subject the teacher taught
when you studied with him or her
what made that person a good teacher

and explain why you think this person was the best teacher you’ve had.

Text message

Describe an important text message you received. You should say:

who sent the message
what was in the message
why the person sent the message

and explain why the message was important to you.

Describe something you own which is very important to you. You should say:

where you got it
what you use it to do

And explain why it is important to you.

Traditional Product

Talk about a traditional product which is very popular in your country. You should say

What the product is
How it is made
Why it is popular

And if it is popular in other countries.

Transportation

Describe the transportation system in your hometown or the place you are living now. You should say:

What kind of transportation there is
Which kind of transportation do most people use
What are the good points and bad points of the transportation system are

And say if you think most people are happy with the transportation system or not, and why.

Talk about one means of transportation that you often use. You should mention:

Where you usually go by that means of transportation
What the advantages of that method of travelling are
What the disadvantages are

And say if you think you will use that means of transport more or less often in the future, and why.

Describe a trip you took by public transport. You should say:

what means of transport you took
what you did during the trip

and explain how you felt about the trip.

Describe a journey you have been on. You should say:

What kind or kinds of transport you used
How long the journey took

And say whether you think it was easy to take this journey or not, and why.

Talk about something tourists like to do in your country. You should say:

How well-known the activity is
What kinds of people like to do it

And say if you think it will become more popular or less popular in the future and why

Talk about a day trip you have been on. You should say:

How you travelled
Why you chose to go to that place

And say whether you would like to go back to the same place again or not, and why.

Talk about a part of your country you have never been to but would like to visit. You should say:

Why you have never been there before
If or when you think you might go
Why you would like to go

And say how you first became interested in going to that place.

Talk about a foreign country you have never been to but would like to visit. You should say:

Describe a country you would like to visit in the future that you haven’t been to yet. You should say:

Which country it is
Where it is located in the world
What you could see there

Explain why this country would be such a good place to visit.

Describe a lake, a river or a sea you have visited. You should say:

Where the lake is
How often you have visited it
What activities you do there

Explain why you like this particular place.

Describe a holiday that you recently went on that you enjoyed. You should say:

Explain why this holiday was enjoyable.

Describe a traditional product in your country. You should say:

what the product is
when you tried this product for the first time
what it is made of

and explain how you feel about it.

Describe a TV programme that you often watch. You should say:

What kind of programme it is
Why you watch it
When and why you first started watching it

And say if you think that programme is better than other TV programmes that are on at the same time or not, and why

Describe a plant, vegetable or crop that you are familiar with. You should say:

Where it grows
Why is it important
What you like or dislike about it

And explain why it is important for your country.

Describe a time when the weather prevented you from doing something. You should say:

what your plan was
what weather you were hoping for
what happened

and explain how you felt when you had to change your plans.

Describe your dream job. You should say:

What kind of things you would do in that job
What the working conditions would be like
What kind of workplace you would work in

And say if you think you will be able to get a job like that or not, and why.

Describe your dream workplace. You should say:

What it would look like
What facilities it would have
Where it would be

And say if you think you will ever work in a place like that or not, and why.

Talk about a job you have done or know about. You should say:

What people do in that job
What kind of place they work in
What clothes and equipment they need

And say if you think it is a satisfying job to do or not, and why.

Talk about a job someone in your family does.You should say:

How long that person has been doing that job
What the good things about that job are
What the difficulties of doing that job are

And say if you think that person enjoys their job or not, and why.

Describe a workplace you have worked in or know about.You should say:

What the building looks like
What is inside the building
What things there are to do in the local area

And say if you think it is a good place to work or not, and why.

Describe a job you would like to do in the future.You should say:

How and when you first became interested in that job
What people in that job have to do every day
What qualifications and experience do you need in order to get that job

And say if you think you will be able to get that job or not, and why.

Part 3 IELTS Speaking Questions

What challenges do young people face today?
How do (young people) handle difficult or challenging tasks?
Which do you think is better, to face these difficulties and challenges alone or to seek the help of others?
Do you think people need to be challenged?

A Member of A Team

In a team, is it more important to pursue individual development or to achieve team targets?
Do you think it’s important for children to join teams to learn to cooperate with others?
Do you think disagreements among team members have a great influence on teamwork?
Can you suggest how teamwork could be cultivated in classes at school?
What are popular types of advertising in today’s world?
What type of media advertising do you like most?
Do you think advertising influences what people buy?
What factors should be taken into account when making advertisements?
Is advertising really necessary in modern society?
Let’s move on from types of advertising to the impact of advertising on children. How does advertising influence children?
Is there any advertising that can be harmful to children?
Why do people like to keep pets ?
What should we do to protect endangered animals ?
Do you support doing experiments on animals ?
Why do some people refuse to eat animals ?
What would happen when some species disappear on earth ?
Do you think that aquatic animals are dangerous ?
What is it like to be a professional athlete?
A lot of animals are getting extinct these days. What do you think about this? Why is it happening?
Earlier people used animals for their work. Now, what do people use to do their work?
Research is being conducted on animals; is this a good idea?
How do people in your country feel about art?
Do people in your country prefer music over art?
What are some traditional art forms in your country?
How has art changed in the past few decades in your country?
Let’s move on from art in your country to art education. Do you think children should study art in school?
How can children benefit from learning about art?
Do you think the government should provide support for art and cultural activities?
How could art exhibitions attract more visitors?
Are art exhibitions popular in your country?
Do you think people should have to pay to visit art exhibitions?
How will art exhibitions change in the future?
What can you do to support an artist?
Do people read more nowadays?
Do you read before going to bed?
In your opinion, how will e-books affect paper books?
What’s the difference between films and books?
Let’s move on to the topic of traditional literature in your country. What is one example of traditional literature in your country?
Do you like reading the traditional literature of your country?
Do you prefer books or movies?
Do you think it is important to read the book before watching the movie version of it?
Do boys and girls like the same kinds of books?
What kind of books do Indian people like to read?
In your opinion, do business people have to work long hours?
How do business people relax?
Let’s move on to the topic of small businesses. How can a small business grow big?
In your opinion, what kind of small businesses will young people have in the future?
In your opinion, what skills are required to start a small business?
Finally, let’s talk about globalisation. What are the impacts of globalisation on small and large businesses?
What qualities are required to become a company leader (or CEO or manager)?
In general, what factors do you think to determine whether a small company will become successful or not?
Do you think the latest technology plays an important role in a company’s development?
What do you think of charitable organisations?
Which do you think is better, to start your own business or to work for someone else?
Do you think change is good?
What are some of the major changes that occur to people throughout their lives?
Is your country changing rapidly?
In what ways have changes in technology changed people’s lives?
Why do old people not accept change?
In your opinion, what makes a city a good one to live in?
What are the advantages of living in a city?
Let’s move on from the positive aspects of cities to the negative aspects of cities. In your opinion, what are the negative aspects of crowded cities?
How can governments improve living standards in crowded cities?
What about air quality? What can people do to improve the air quality in the city?
What are the advantages and disadvantages of living in tall buildings ?
Do you think there will be more tall buildings in the future?
Why aren’t there many tall buildings in the countryside?
Why do some people like to live in tall buildings nowadays?
Is it true that tall buildings are more beneficial than small buildings?
Why do a lot of people enjoy going to crowded places?
Where (or what) would you say is the most crowded place in your city?
Would you say it’s important for a city to have amusement (and/or recreational) facilities?
Why do you think people choose to live in big cities (despite certain problems)?
How do you think cities overseas are different from those in your country?
Would you say urban planning is important?
Can clothing tell you much about a person in your country?
Do people still wear traditional clothing in your country?
How has clothing fashion changed in your country over the last few decades?
Why do some companies ask their staff to wear uniforms?
What are the advantages and disadvantages of having uniforms at work?
For which jobs are people required to wear a uniform in your country?
Do you think people are treated differently when they are in uniform?
Where do people from your country buy clothes?
What’s the difference between men and women’s choices of clothes?
Do clothes affect people’s mood?
What do people consider when buying clothes?
What would you say are the advantages and disadvantages of wearing a uniform?
In your country, do schools provide similar uniforms to their students?
What kinds of professionals need to wear uniforms?
Do you think people wear clothes that reflect their personality?
Do you think women’s clothes show more variety than men’s clothes?
What is the difference between big companies and small companies?
Are there many big companies in your country?
What are the good things about working for a big company?
Should big companies be punished more seriously than small companies?
Why do some people choose to work at an international company?
Let’s move on to the topic of companies’ services. How can a company maintain the quality of the service that it gives to the public?
Do you think it’s important for a company to provide after-sales service?
What are a few things that make you happy?
Do you believe that engaging in artistic activities might make people happier? (Why/Why not)
Do you think people who have more talent are happier than others? (Why/Why not)
Do you think money makes people happy?
Are the things or events that make people happy today the same as several decades ago?
What are the benefits of getting up early?
Why do some people like to stay up late?
Do you think it is important to be punctual?
What kind of situations need people to arrive early?
Why do children and youngsters generally wake up late?
Do you know anyone who likes to get up early?
Why do some people find it hard to make decisions?
How important is it to get advice from other people when making decisions?
Why is it sometimes difficult to accept advice?
What are some of the most important decisions young people have to make?
Do you agree that parents should make important decisions for their children?
Is it better to make a decision thinking about what you want or thinking about what other people want?

Desired Change to Local Area

Why do old people not like changes?
Do you think it’s important for people to socialise with their neighbours?
How do people socialise with their neighbours?

Eating habits

Tell me about the types of food that people eat in your country.
How are the eating habits now in your country different from eating habits in the past?
How healthy is your country’s food?
Why do you think different cultures have different table manners?
How may eating habits change in coming decades?
Let’s move on to diet and eating habits. Do you think our diet is important?
What is a balanced diet?
How might eating habits change in the coming decades?
How are education priorities today different from those in the past?
What is your opinion on the way languages are taught in schools?
How can the type of school you go to affect career success?
What changes do you think will happen in the classroom in the near future?
What are the most popular electronic devices in today’s world?
What devices do you think will be popular in the future?
Let’s move on to the role of electronic devices in today’s society. Do you think people spend too much money on electronic devices?
In what ways can electronic devices make our lives harder?
What would the world be like without computers?
Should children be taught to use computers at school?
Do you think traditional performances are important?
What do you think is the difference between watching a live performance and watching it on TV?
How do you think watching a dance performance or a stage play influences children?
What are some of the main environmental problems in your county?
Why should people be concerned about the environment?
Is water pollution a problem in your country?
What are some of the causes of water pollution?
Do you think problems with the cleanliness of water will improve in the future?
How can people protect the environment?
Do you think money should be spent on protecting animals?
Do you think more should be done to protect natural scenic spots in your country?
What can individuals do to try and ensure water is kept clean?
What rewards can children get from school?
Should parents push their children to get prizes?
Is it good for children to compete for prizes at school?
What kinds of rewards can companies offer to their outstanding employees?
Is it good to have competition?
What are the most common resolutions in your country?
How difficult would it be for you to save money this year?
How difficult would it be for you to get fit this year?
What do you think this year will be like for you?
Do you personally think that resolutions help us achieve our goals?
What are the benefits of taking New year resolutions?
Describe an event that you attended recently.
Describe an important choice you had to make in your life.
Describe a very difficult task that you succeeded in doing.
Describe an interesting discussion you had related to your work or studies.
Can you compare some exciting activities people do now with activities people did 20 years ago?
Why do some people enjoy doing dangerous sports?
Do you think some dangerous activities should be banned?
Let’s move on from exciting activities to people doing new things in general. Should people try doing new things?
What problems can people have when they try new activities for the first time?
Do you think it’s best to do new things on your own or with other people?
Do people in your country spend a lot of money on celebrating birthdays?
Do you think it’s necessary to spend a lot of money on holding a party?
Do people in your country usually go out to celebrate traditional festivals with others?
Is family important in your country?
Who should be responsible to care for the elderly? Should it be the family or the government?
How has the size of the average family changed in your country in the last few decades?
How do you think families will change in the future?
Let’s move on to the roles of different family members. Should husbands and wives have different roles within the family?
What role do grandparents play in the family in your country?
What qualities does a person need to have to take care of old people?
Do you think old people should be taken care of at home?
How can people in the neighbourhood help the elderly during an epidemic?
Do you see this kind of help occurring in your neighbourhood?
Do you think teenagers must indulge in building a community for elderly?
What kind of jobs need physical activity?
Can physical workers have higher salaries in the future?
Do you think machines could replace manual labour in the future?
What’s the difference between payment for physical work and payment for mental work?
How can a person’s energy affect others?
Do you think children are born smart or do they learn to become smart?
How do children become smart at school?
Why are some people well-rounded and others only good at one thing?
Why does modern society need talent of all kinds?
How can we assist youngsters in realising their potential?
Who is the head of the family in your culture?
Are men better at decision-making in a family?
How do you see leadership qualities now and in the future?
Do you think that in the future there will be more women leaders?
Should a leader discuss with team members when making decisions?
What are the advantages of strong family relationships?
How many generations are usually living under one roof in your country?
What are the benefits, and drawbacks of a family of several generations living together?
Do both parents have equal responsibilities in taking care of their children?
What is the importance of traditional festivals?
What is the difference between festivals that are celebrated now and in the past?
Do you think festivals like Christmas are replacing traditional festivals in your country?
Do you think it is wrong for children to not celebrate traditional festivals?
Do you think teens should learn about traditions?
Do you think the traditions in your country are restricted, especially for women in any sense?
What are the types of food that people eat in your country?
What about foreign food? What kinds of foreign food are popular in your country?
In your country, is it important to have a meal together with your family?
Is food now better than in the past?
What kind of people would like to go to a cafe?
Why do young people like studying in a cafe instead of at home?
Do older people like to drink coffee?
Do Indian people like to drink coffee?
Does the taste of coffee vary by country?
What is the importance of friends?
Would you like to have a few very good friends or a lot of just friends?
If you had a problem, would you go to your friends or family? Why?
Do you think it is always better to talk to your friends about such a problem?
Is it important to have friends from other countries?
In what situations do people in your country buy furniture?
In families in your country, who usually decides what furniture to buy for the home?
How do people in your country decide what furniture to buy for the home or office?
Do people in your country prefer traditional or modern styles of furniture?
How can people improve their health?
Do elderly people exercise much in your country?
Do you think all illnesses can be prevented?
Do you think that illnesses will be less common in the future?
Do you think healthcare should be free?
What makes someone a good doctor?
Why is it that different people want to see different magazines?
What type of magazines do teens prefer to read?
What is the distinction between information on TV and information in magazines?
Do folks like to read the information on the World Wide Web?
Do people still purchase magazines in their own country?
Do you feel that people now are healthier than people previously?
Do you think we have to restructure our lifestyle to improve our health?
How do you think people could become healthier?
Are there any differences between the way old people and young people try to stay healthy?
Do schools in your country have any special activities to enhance the fitness of students?
Do you think people in the future will be doing more exercise and eating healthier than they are today?
Do you like helping others?
Do you think people are less willing to help others these days compared to the past?
Do people today trust others as much as they used to in the past?
How do people in your community help each other?
Let’s move on to the topic of educating children to help people. In your view, should children be taught to help others?
In your opinion, how can we encourage children to help others?
What about students? How can students, such as high-school students, help each other?
Do you think history is important?
Do you like to learn about history?
What do you think we can learn by studying history?
Let’s move on to different ways of learning about history. In your opinion, how can people learn about history?
Do you think people can learn history from films or TV programs?
Do you think the internet is a good place to learn about history?
What is the effect of technology on how people learn about history?
First of all, why do people go on holiday?
How important is it for families to go on holiday together?
Why do some people go on holiday alone?
How have holidays changed over the past few decades?
What kind of holidays will be popular in the future?
Let’s move on to talk about taking holidays in a foreign country. Do you think is it better to take a holiday in your own country or in a foreign country?
What problems can people have on holiday in a foreign country?
Why do people move to a new home?
What problems do people face after moving to a new place?
What are the advantages and disadvantages of living in the same place?
Is it good to move to a new place frequently? Why?
Do you think it’s better to rent or to buy a place to live in?
How easy is it to find a place to live in your country?
Do you agree that there is a right age for young adults to stop living with their parents?
What options are available to young couples looking for accommodation in your country?
What are some of the pleasures involved in making a home for ourselves?
What types of people influence the young in your country?
What type of people, such as parents, teachers, or friends, are best to influence young people’s behaviour?
Why is it important for young people to have role models?
What do you think young people will be influenced by the most in the future?
Why is it important to have role models?
Do you think the education system in your country influences young people’s behaviour?
What type of person (parents, teachers, friends etc) are best to influence young people’s behaviour?
What do you think young people will be most influenced by in the future?
How do you think the Internet will change people’s buying habits in the future?
What are the pros and cons of shopping online?
Is the Internet important for education?
Do you think parents should supervise their children’s use of the Internet?
What’s the best age for children to use the Internet?
Why do children start using the Internet very early nowadays?
Let’s move on to what people do on the Internet. What do you think people do on the Internet?
What about elderly people? Do elderly people use the Internet very much?
What can people do on social media?
Do you think older people and younger people will use the same kind of social media software?
Do older people spend much time on social media?
Are non-social media like television and newspapers still useful?
What are the advantages and disadvantages of using social media?
How do you think AI (artificial intelligence) will affect people’s work?
What would you say are the important factors to consider when choosing a career?
That technology will make some people lose their jobs. How do you think this problem should be handled?
Would you ever move to work and live in another city?
Is it common in your country for people to move to other cities because of work?
When young people choose their jobs, which do you think is usually more important, the salary or their interest in the work?
What is the general attitude towards arriving somewhere late in your country?
What is an example of a time when it is very important for people to arrive on time in your country?
Can you suggest some ways to make sure you are not late for anything?
Let’s move on to how modern technology influences the way that people manage time. Do you think computers make it easier or more difficult to manage time?
How can modern technology help people arrive early?
Do you think it is easy to manage your time in the modern world?

Leisure activities

What types of leisure activities are popular in your country?
Why is it important for people to have time for leisure activities?
Why are some activities more popular than others?
Are the types of leisure activities that are popular today the same as those that were popular when your parents were young?
What types of leisure activities may become more popular in the future?
Do you think (watching) films have (has) any educational benefits?
In what ways are documentary films and films only for entertainment different?
Why do you think documentary films are not so popular?
How are movies and real life different?
Do men and women watch the same kind of films?
Do different age groups like the same kind of films?
Do you like any particular film star? Why?
Do you like movie stars who were treated like God?
What kinds of machines are used for housework in modern homes in your country?
How have these machines benefited people? Are there any negative effects of using them?
Do you think all new homes will be equipped with household machines in the future? Why?
Let’s move on to technology. Do you think people rely too much on technology?
Do you think men and women view technology differently?
Finally, let’s talk about the impact of technology on employment. How have developments in technology affected employment in your country?
Some people think that technology has brought more stress than benefits to employed people nowadays. Do you agree or disagree with this statement?
Do you think it’s important to have a good memory?
Why do sometimes people forget things?
Which do you think is more important to remember, a business meeting or a meeting with a friend?
Are there any things that are especially important for people to memorise?
Let’s move on from memory to family history. Why do people want to remember their family history?
What can you do to learn more about your family history?

Mobile phones

Do you think there should be regulations on the use of mobile phones?
What do you think of primary school students owning a mobile phone?
What (minimum) age do you think is appropriate for owning a cell phone?
Is money important to you?
What is the relationship between money and power?
Let’s move on to teaching children about money. How do you think parents can teach the value of money to their children?
Do you think it is important to teach children money skills?
Should we let children buy whatever they want with money they’ve saved?
What kind of music is popular in your country?
How does pop music now compare to when you were growing up?
Is foreign music or music from your country more popular with people your age?
Let’s move on to the role of government on music. Do you think is it necessary for the government to require all children to learn music?
Do you think the government needs to do more to preserve traditional music? What could they do?
Finally, let’s talk about illegal downloading of music. There’s a lot of pirated music. Do you agree that we should support official music?
What are some possible advantages and disadvantages of being stricter about the illegal downloading of music?
Do you think CDs will have any role in the music industry in the future?
Do singers play an important role in your country?
Do you think celebrities have a lot of income?
In your country, do people prefer to listen to traditional music or foreign music?
Do you prefer live performances?
What do you think about the role of singers on the national level?
What types of songs are the most popular among today’s young generation in India?
Why do you think pop music is so popular?
How do people get their news in today’s society?
How do you think people will get their news in the future?
How does modern technology affect the delivery of news?
Do you believe everything you read in the newspaper?
Let’s move on to the topic of good news. In your opinion, when do people share good news?
How do people share good news?
What is the difference between new media and old media?
Do you think the contents in the newspapers are reliable?
Do you think it’s necessary for people to watch foreign news?
How has social media changed how we consume news?
What kinds of (famous) people are usually in the news in your country?
For parents, what is important when bringing up their children?
Do you think mothers and fathers have different roles to play in bringing up a child?
Let’s move on to the education of children. Do you think hitting children is sometimes necessary for discipline?
Do you think sweets are a good thing to reward children with?
Do you think parents spend too much on buying toys for their children?
When do people usually have parties in your country?
What makes a good party?
What are the main reasons why people organise family parties in your country?
In some places people spend a lot of money on parties that celebrate special family events. Is this ever true in your country? Do you think this is a good trend or a bad trend?
How important is it to celebrate important events with a group of people?
Why do some people think that national celebrations are a waste of government money? Do you agree or disagree with this view? Why?

Personal

What decisions do people generally make in their daily life?
Which is easier, making a decision by oneself or making a decision after a group discussion?
Why are many young people unwilling to listen to their parent’s advice?
Why do middle-aged people tend to second guess their decision?
Should people consider the consequences of their decisions that impact others or only think of themselves?
Do you think adults can have lots of imagination?
Do you think imagination is necessary for scientists?
What kind of jobs need imagination?
What subjects are helpful for people’s imagination?
Do you think children can have a good imagination level ?
Do children like to change opinions?
Why do people change their opinion?
Who do young people turn to for advice?
Do people like giving an opinion about politics?
Is changing opinions good for society?
On what occasions do people usually need to wait?
Who behaves better when waiting, children or adults?
Compared to the past, are people less patient now, why?
What are the positive and negative effects of waiting on society?
Are you a patient person?
Do you think it is possible to teach people to be more patient?
Some people believe that impatience helps the development of technology. Do you agree with that?– Why do you think so?
Where do you go to get good advice?
Whose advice do you follow more parents or your friend’s advice?
Have your parents given you much advice?
What kind of advice do parents give their children?
What kind of advice do friends give each other?
What can we learn from our mistakes?
Do children make mistakes easily?
What should parents do if their children make mistakes?
What do children learn from teachers and parents?
How should a person be remorseful for their mistakes?
How do children benefit from using dictionaries?
In general, do you think planning is important?
Do you think people should make highly detailed plans or just general plans?
What types of people like to make plans?
Why do you think some people dislike making plans?
Let’s move on from planning to career plans. Do you think it’s important for a person to have a career plan?
How do most people plan their futures in their education and careers?
Do you think it’s important for young people to get advice from their parents when planning a career?
What kinds of products are mostly imported into your country?
In your opinion, why do some people like to buy imported products?
Let’s move on to local products. What are some famous local products in your country?
Do you think a country should make everything it needs or import some things?
What are the disadvantages of a country producing everything it needs?
Finally, let’s talk about globalisation. Do you think the globalisation of industries and commerce is a good thing?
What are the impacts of globalisation on international trade?
Do many people eat in restaurants in your country?
Why do some people enjoy eating out?
Is it expensive to eat out in your country?
Let’s move on from eating in restaurants to cooking at home. Do you like to cook at home?
Nowadays, more and more people are unwilling to cook. Why is this happening?
What’s the difference between restaurant food and home-cooked food?
Why do we have rules in society?
Do you think it’s necessary to set up rules about overworking people?
What are some examples of rules that exist in many families?
What are some rules that exist in schools or workplaces in your country?
Do you think that the students themselves should have a say in what kinds of school rules there are?
Is higher education too expensive in your country?
Should all students pay for their university education?
Can you compare the education your parents had with the education that you received?
What changes do you think will happen in the classrooms of the near future?
Let’s move on to university education. What advantages do universities bring to society?
Which is more important, research or teaching?
What makes a good university student?
Do you think students should be taken to school by their parents or go by themselves?
Should children rely on their parents or be independent?
How can children become more independent?
What is the effect if parents interfere with children’s life too much?
How does changing school affect children?
Do you think science is important?
Do you think science can change our society?
Which area of science has been the most important in the last one hundred years?
Why do you think some inventions have not been successful in the marketplace?
Do you think it’s good that new inventions are appearing so often?
Do you think there will be any negative effects resulting from future technology?
Is shopping a popular activity in your country?
How have shopping habits changed over recent years?
To what extent do you think advertising affects the way people shop?
Do you think shopping habits are likely to change in the future?
Why do some people prefer to purchase brand name products produced abroad?
Is service better in large shops or in small shops?
What do people do when they get bad service?
What social problems are there in your country?
What about poverty? What can be done to alleviate poverty?
Are there many charities in your country?
Let’s move on to talk about the overpopulation problem. Why do so many people move to live in cities?
What problems does overpopulation cause?
Finally, let’s talk about crime. What is the difference between major and minor crime?
Do you think all criminals should go to prison?

Something Difficult to Use

Do you often buy new things?
Would you say that advertising makes people buy more news things than they would if there was no advertising?
Do you think old(er) people have difficulties using some things that young people do not?
What types of sports are popular in your country?
Do you think the types of sports that are popular will change in the future?
Let’s move on to talk about some positive aspects of sports. In your opinion, what are the benefits of playing a sport?
What about cultural aspects? How can sports bring people from different countries closer together?
Do you think old people can keep fit by playing sports or exercising?
Finally, let’s talk about the Olympic Games. How are the Olympic players trained in your country? Do they usually start training when they are born?
Why would somebody dislike watching the Olympic Games?
Do you think the types of sport that are popular will change in the future?
How often do people go to buy clothes?
Why do parents let their children play with puzzles?
What kind of puzzles improve people’s intelligence?
Why are detective stories attractive to people?
Which do you think is better? A detective movie or its original novel?
Which age group plays puzzles the most?
What kinds of exercises do Indian people like?
What characteristics do you think an athlete should have?
Why are there so few top athletes?
What’s the best way to become a top athlete?
What are your thoughts about the trend that people buy new things instead of repairing the old ones?
Is increasing consumerism a good trend?
Do you think adults and youngsters’ shopping lists have a vast difference?
Which products are most consumed in your country? Why?
What skills do students need to master?
Is it hard for students to learn new skills?
Is it hard for old people to learn new skills?
Is a good teacher very important for students’ learning experience? Why?
What is necessary to learn and improve a skill?
Why do some people have a better memory?
Which can help people remember things better, words or photos?
Can technology help people remember things better? How?
How can people improve their memory?
Should old people read books?
What is the most important practical skill in modern society?
What kind of job requires practical skills?
What kinds of skills are difficult to learn?
How can you teach your skills to others?
How well-respected are teachers in your society?
Do you think teachers get paid enough money in your country?
What role should the teacher have in the classroom?
In your opinion, what are the most important qualities for a good teacher to have?
Let’s move on to teaching aspects. In your opinion, how can a teacher make lessons for children more interesting?
Do you think computers will one day replace teachers in the classroom?
What’s the best invention in the past hundred years?
What’s the influence of science on human life?
What can individuals do for scientific research?
What influence can international cooperation in science bring about?
Do you think it is mandatory to teach science in schools?

Text Message

Why do some people dislike using text messages?
Have the ways that people communicated with each other changed much in the last few decades?
Why do people prefer texting as compared to phone calls?
Do you think modern technology has any negative influence on communication?
What do you think are some of the main differences between written communication and spoken communication?
What kinds of possessions are considered high-status to people in your country?
Were different possessions thought of as valuable in the past?
Why do you think people need to show their status in society?
Do advertisements give correct information, or do they encourage people to buy things that they may not need?
Where can people hear a lot of noise?
What may happen when someone listens to very loud music using headphones while they are running or hiking?
What can be done to reduce traffic noise?
Do you think the world will be noisier in the future?
What rules should be imposed to reduce noise pollution in the near future?

Time When Someone Apologised to You

What kinds of people are most likely to say sorry?
In what situations do you think people need to (or, should) apologise?
What do you think of those people who don’t apologise very often?

Traditional Products

What different types of traditional products are produced in your country?
In your opinion, why do traditional products attract tourists?
Do you think there are benefits of traditional products to locals?
Do you think the government should help in the promotion of traditional products?
Let’s move on from traditional products to traditions. Do you think because of globalisation countries are adopting each other’s traditions?
Did the traditional things of the past are of better quality than present day things?
Do you think it is necessary to protect traditions?
How do most people travel long distances in your country?
Have the types of transport people use changed much over the last few decades?
What kinds of improvement have there been in transport in your country in recent years?
Do you think transport is likely to continue to improve in the future?
Have the types of transportation people use changed much over the last few decades?
How has transportation improved in recent years?
Do you think transportation is likely to continue to improve in the future?
What is your take on introducing transportation passes?
Let’s move on to the transportation system in your country. Is it faster to travel by public transportation or by car in your country?
What are the impacts of Uber on transportation in your country?
Do you think traffic jams would be reduced if people could travel on public transport for free?
Why do you think more and more people prefer to travel by plane?
What kinds of obstacles do you think some local governments have to face when they develop transportation infrastructure?
Why do some people prefer to travel abroad rather than travel in their own country?
Do you think travelling to another country can change the way that people think?
Do you think it’s safer to travel today than in the past?
Let’s move on to tourism. What are some famous tourist spots in your country?
What are the positive impacts of tourism in your country?
What are the negative impacts of tourism in your country?
What can you say about the future of the tourism industry in your country?
Does the rating of the people influence their choice?
How do people reserve rooms?
What influences people’s choice of a hotel?
What is the difference between a hotel in our country and a hotel abroad?
Which feature is the most important facility you look for while staying in a hotel?
Tell me about the types of programmes that are generally on television in your country.
Do you think state or private television is better?
Let’s move on from TV programmes to television in general. How has TV changed our lives?
Do you think TV influences the way we think?
Should children be allowed to watch a lot of TV?
Are all people on TV famous?
How popular is watching television in your country?
Why do people like watching television?
What effects can watching television have on children?
What vegetables are common in your country?
Do people like to grow vegetables in your country?
How do people feel when they eat vegetables that they grew on their own?
Let’s move on to the topic of organic vegetables. As we know organic fruits and vegetables are more expensive than conventional fruits and vegetables, but they are actually worth the extra cost. Do you think organic fruit deserves a higher price?
Do you think the government should encourage farmers to grow more organic vegetables?
Describe the seasons in your country
Do you think job satisfaction is more important than your salary when choosing a job?
What skills do you think are needed to get a good job these days?
Do you think that women should be able to do the same jobs as men?
What’s the difference between white-collar and blue-collar jobs?
What jobs do you think are most valuable to society?

Disclaimer: Please note that these questions were gathered by asking hundreds of our students to send in their practice questions. Whilst every effort has been made to make sure mistakes have been removed, with so many of them, mistakes may still be present. These IELTS Speaking Questions are for educational purposes only.

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IELTS Speaking Part 1 Topics & Questions

IELTS speaking part 1 topics and questions. Prepare for your test by developing ideas for topics and practicing answering questions. There is a download link at the bottom of the page for the list of topics. These topics will be used most years and will mostly likely be used at some point in 2024.

What is IELTS speaking part 1?

A face to face interview with the examiner (4-5 minutes) 12 Questions based on 3 Topics Questions about yourself, your life and your country

Speaking Part 1 Common Topics List

Below is a list of topics and questions that the examiner can ask you in part 1 of the IELTS speaking test. You should prepare ideas for these topics but not memorise whole answers. Your answers should be natural when you speak in the test. Prepare your daily life, your recent memories, your childhood memories, your opinions, popular things in your country etc. Remember – part 1 is all about you and your country.

Daily routine
Dictionaries
Family & Friends
Leisure time
Neighbours & Neighbourhood
Shopping Sport

Questions & Topics for IELTS Speaking Part 1

These four topics are the most common in IELTS speaking part 1. You should prepare ideas and practice answering these questions. You are VERY LIKELY to get one of these four for your first topic.

Work What is your job? Where do you work? Why did you choose that job? Is it a popular job in your country? Do you like your job? Do you get on well with your colleagues? What was your first day like? What responsibilities do you have at work? If you had the chance, would you change your job? Do you plan to continue with your job in the future?

Study What do you study? Where do you study that? Why did you choose that subject? Is it a popular subject in your country? Do you like that subject? Do you get on with your colleagues? What was your first day like? What are the main aspects of your subject? If you had the chance, would you change subject? Do you plan to get a job in the same field as your subject?

Note: if you don’t work or study, please say so. When the examiner asks “Do you work or do you study?”, this isn’t a trick question. Just be open and honest. For example, “I don’t work or study at the moment.” or “I’m a housewife.” If you don’t work or study, the examiner will ask about your home or hometown instead.

Note: Your hometown refers to the village, town or city where you spent most of your childhood. It might not be the same place you were born. If you grew up in many different places, choose the place you are most connected to.

Hometown Where is your hometown? Do you like your hometown? Do you often visit your hometown? What is your hometown like? What is the oldest place in your hometown? What is there for a foreigner to do or see in your hometown? How could your hometown be improved? Has your hometown changed much since you were a child? Is there good public transportation in your hometown? Do you think your hometown is a good place to bring up children?

Home Where is your home? Do you live in a house or a flat? Who do you live with? Are there many rooms in your home? What is your favourite room? How are the walls decorated? What would you change about your home? Do you plan to live there in the future? What facilities are there near your home? What is your neighbourhood like? Do most people live in houses in your country?

Common Questions in Speaking Part 1

Art Are you good at art? Did you learn art at school when you were a child? What kind of art do you like? Is art popular in your country? Have you ever been to an art gallery? Do you think children can benefit from going to art galleries?

Bicycles Do you have a bike? How often do you use it? How old were you when you learned to ride a bike? Do many people in your country using bicycles? Do you think using bicycles should be encouraged?

Birthdays Do you usually celebrate your birthdays? How did you celebrate your last birthday? Which birthdays are the most important ones in your country? Do you think children should celebrate their birthdays with a party?

Childhood Did you enjoy your childhood? What is your first memory of your childhood? Did you have a lot of friends when you were a child? What did you enjoy doing as a child? Do you think it is better for children to grow up in the city or in the countryside?

Clothes Are clothes important to you? What kind of clothes do you usually wear? Do you ever wear the traditional clothes of your country? Where do you usually buy your clothes? Have you ever worn a uniform? Do most people in your country follow fashion?

Computers Do you often use a computer? How do you usually get online? Do you prefer desktops or laptops? What do you use your computer for? Do you think it is important to learn how to use a computer?

Daily Routine When do you usually get up in the morning? Do you usually have the same routine every day? What is your daily routine? Do you ever change your routine? Is your routine the same today as it was when you were a child? Do you think it is important to have a daily routine?

Dictionaries Do you often use a dictionary? What do you use dictionaries for? What kinds of dictionaries do you think are most useful? Do you think dictionaries are useful for learning a language? What kind of information you find in a dictionary? Useful video lesson: Dictionary vocabulary

Dreams Do you often have dreams when you sleep? Do you usually remember your dreams? Do you think dreams are important to remember? Do you ever have daydream? What kind of daydreams do you usually have?

Drinks What is your favourite drink? Is it common for people to drink tea and coffee in your country? Did you prefer different drinks as a child? Do you think it is important to drink lots of water? What is a traditional drink in your country for celebrating?

Evenings What do you often do in the evenings? Do you do the same thing every evening? Do you prefer to spend your evenings with family or friends? Do you ever work or study in the evenings? What is a popular activity for young people in your country in the evenings? Do you do the same thing in the evenings as you did when you were a child?

Family & Friends Do you spend much time with your family? Who are you closest to in your family? Do you prefer spending time with your family or friends? Who is your best friend? Are you still friends with people from your childhood? Is family important in your country?

Flowers Do you like flowers? What’s your favourite flower? When was the last time you gave someone flowers? Do any flowers have a special meaning in your country? Why do you think women like flowers more than men? See similar topics for part 2 and 3: Parks, Gardens, Trees & Flowers

Food What’s your favourite food? Have you always liked the same food? Is there any food you dislike? What is a common meal in your country? Do you have a healthy diet? What do you think of fast food?

Going Out Do you often go out in the evenings? What do you like to do when you go out? Do you prefer going out on your own or with friends? How often do you go out in a week? Where do most young people like to go out in your country?

Happiness Are you a happy person? What usually makes you happy or unhappy? Does the weather ever affect how you feel? What makes you smile? Do you think people in your country are generally happy people?

Hobbies Do you have a hobby? What equipment do you need for it? Do you think hobbies should be shared with other people? Did you have a hobby as a child? What hobbies are popular in your country? Why do you think people have hobbies?

Internet How often do you go online? What do you use the internet for? How do you get online? Do you have your own computer? What’s your favourite website? Do you think children should be allowed unsupervised access to the internet?

Languages How many foreign languages do you speak? When did you start learning your first foreign language? How many foreign languages do children in your country learn at school? Do you think it is important to learn a foreign language?

Leisure Time What is your favourite leisure activity? What did you enjoy doing in your free time as a child? Do you prefer to spend your free time with other people or alone? What is a common leisure activity in your country? Do most people in your country get two days off a week? Do you think leisure time is important?

Music Do you like music? What’s your favourite type of music? Can you sing? Did you learn music at school? If you could learn a musical instrument, what would it be? Do you think music is important?

Neighbours & Neighbourhood Do you like your neighbours? Are neighbours usually close to each other in your country? What is your neighbourhood like? Do you think your neighbourhood is a good place for children? How could your neighbourhood be improved? Do you think it is important to have a good relationship with your neighbours?

Newspapers How do you usually get your news? Do you often read the newspapers? What kind of news do you usually follow? How do most people get the news in your country? Do you think international news is important?

Noise Do you live in a noisy area? What kinds of sounds you you hear on a daily basis? Where do you go to spend time in peace and quiet? Are there any sounds which you think are pleasant? Do you have any noisy friends?

Patience Are you a patient person? Do you ever get impatient? When was the last time you lost your patience? Which person in your family is the most patient?

Pets Do you have a pet? Do you like animals? What’s your favourite animal? What is a popular pet to have in your country? Did you have a pet as a child? Why do people have pets?

Reading Do you often read? What is your favourite kind of book to read? Do you often read newspapers? Do you have any e-books? What books did you read as a child? Do you think it is important to encourage children to read?

Shopping Do you like shopping? What’s your favourite shop? Do you prefer shopping alone or with others? What kinds of shops are there where you live? Have you ever bought anything online? Do you think men and women have different opinions about shopping?

Sport Do you like sport? What’s your favourite sport? Do you often watch sport on TV? Did you play sport as a child? What is the most popular sport in your country? How do most people in your country keep fit?

TV Do you often watch TV? What sorts of things do you watch on TV? What is your favourite TV program? Do you ever watch foreign programs or films? What did you watch on TV when you were a child? Do you think children should watch TV?

Transport How did you get here today? What is your favourite mode of transport? Do you ever use public transport? Do you like the transport system in your country? What is the difference between taking a bus and taking a train?

Weather What’s the weather like today? What’s your favourite weather? Do you like the weather in your country? Is the weather the same in all parts of your country? Does the weather ever affect the way you feel? Does the weather in your country ever affect transportation?

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IELTS Speaking practice: Education

IELTS Speaking Cue Card Topic: Education

Education Speaking Part 2 – Cue Card 1

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Describe your Education: IELTS Speaking Part 1 Sample Answer

Speaking Part 1

1 What is the difference between the role of a teacher and a parent in the education of children?

2 What suggestions would you give to teachers to improve education?

3 What is the best way to educate children in your opinion?

4 How can we help children realize their talents?

5 Does the government provide enough support to education in your view?

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