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 kind of clothes do you usually wear?
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. Describe your style in a sentence and say when it changes, such as for work or festivals.
Question 2: Do you like shopping for clothes?
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 with a reason and an example of where you shop.
Question 3: Do you prefer comfortable or fashionable clothes?
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. Choose one and justify it, perhaps mentioning a compromise.
Question 4: Have your clothing tastes changed since you were younger?
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 present perfect to contrast then and now.
Question 5: Describe a gift you gave to someone. (speak for one to two minutes after one minute of preparation)
Tell a short story: why the person needed or deserved a gift, how you chose it and the reaction. Use past tenses, feelings and one detail that makes the story vivid.
Question 6: Why do people give gifts on special occasions?
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. Discuss showing affection and tradition, and give an example from your culture.
Question 7: Is it better to give practical gifts or something personal?
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 both and say which you prefer and why.
Question 8: Do you think people buy too many things they do not need?
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 advertising and easy online shopping, and give a balanced view.
Question 9: How has online shopping changed the way people buy things?
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. Compare convenience and choice with problems such as returns and impulse buying.
Question 10: Should companies be responsible for reducing packaging waste?
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 a clear opinion with an example of what companies and consumers can each do.