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: Do you live in a house or a flat?
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. Say which, describe it briefly and add one thing you like about it.
Question 2: What is your favourite room at home?
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 a room and explain what you do there.
Question 3: Would you like to change anything about your home?
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 'I'd like to' with a reason, for example more space.
Question 4: Do you spend much time at home?
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 routine and compare weekdays with weekends.
Question 5: Describe a person who helps others in your community. (speak for one to two minutes after one minute of prepar…
Introduce the person, give one specific example of what they did and how it affected people, and end with your own opinion of them. Use descriptive adjectives such as 'selfless' and 'dependable'.
Question 6: Why do some people volunteer their time?
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 satisfaction, skills and community spirit, with an example.
Question 7: Should young people be encouraged to do volunteer work?
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 benefits for them and society against their study pressures.
Question 8: Who should be responsible for helping people in need, the government or individuals?
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 balanced view with a reason for each side.
Question 9: Do you think people help each other less in big cities?
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 city and village life and give examples.
Question 10: How can companies contribute to their communities?
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. Suggest practical ideas such as sponsoring local projects, and explain the benefit.