How this test is marked
IELTS Speaking is marked by an examiner on four equally weighted criteria. This practice test has no automatic score, so record yourself, then compare your answer with the notes below.
- Fluency and coherence. Speak at a natural pace with few long pauses, and link your ideas so the listener can follow.
- Lexical resource. Use a range of vocabulary and natural phrases, and paraphrase when you do not know a word.
- Grammatical range and accuracy. Mix simple and complex sentences and keep errors from getting in the way of meaning.
- Pronunciation. Be easy to understand: clear sounds, word and sentence stress, and varied intonation.
Notes for each question
Question 1: What is your favourite food?
Answer directly in your first sentence, then add one reason or example. Aim for two or three sentences (about 20 to 30 seconds) and avoid one word answers. Name the dish and describe it in one sentence, then say why you like it.
Question 2: Do you enjoy cooking?
Answer directly in your first sentence, then add one reason or example. Aim for two or three sentences (about 20 to 30 seconds) and avoid one word answers. Give a clear answer and an example of something you cook, or explain why you avoid it.
Question 3: Do you eat differently at weekends?
Answer directly in your first sentence, then add one reason or example. Aim for two or three sentences (about 20 to 30 seconds) and avoid one word answers. Compare weekdays and weekends with time expressions such as 'usually' and 'on Sundays'.
Question 4: Did you eat different food when you were a child?
Answer directly in your first sentence, then add one reason or example. Aim for two or three sentences (about 20 to 30 seconds) and avoid one word answers. Use 'used to' and give one specific food you ate then and one you eat now.
Question 5: Describe a book you have enjoyed reading. (speak for one to two minutes after one minute of preparation)
Summarise the story in a few sentences rather than retelling it, then spend most of your time on why you enjoyed it. Use reaction vocabulary such as 'gripping', 'thought-provoking' and 'I couldn't put it down'.
Question 6: Why do some people prefer paper books?
Give an opinion, explain it with a reason and add an example or a contrast ('on the other hand'). Longer, developed answers of 30 to 45 seconds score higher than short ones. Give reasons such as the feel of paper and fewer distractions, and mention that others prefer e-books.
Question 7: Do children read less now than in the past?
Give an opinion, explain it with a reason and add an example or a contrast ('on the other hand'). Longer, developed answers of 30 to 45 seconds score higher than short ones. Take a view and support it with the competition from screens, while acknowledging the benefits of digital reading.
Question 8: Should schools require students to read certain books?
Give an opinion, explain it with a reason and add an example or a contrast ('on the other hand'). Longer, developed answers of 30 to 45 seconds score higher than short ones. Weigh the shared knowledge gained against the risk that compulsory reading reduces enjoyment.
Question 9: What makes a book become popular?
Give an opinion, explain it with a reason and add an example or a contrast ('on the other hand'). Longer, developed answers of 30 to 45 seconds score higher than short ones. Mention word of mouth, film adaptations and relatable stories, with one example.
Question 10: Will libraries still be needed in the future?
Give an opinion, explain it with a reason and add an example or a contrast ('on the other hand'). Longer, developed answers of 30 to 45 seconds score higher than short ones. Say what libraries offer beyond books, for example free access and community space, and predict their role.