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: How do you usually get around your city?
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 main way and add a reason, such as cost or speed.
Question 2: Is public transport good where you live?
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 balanced answer with one good point and one problem.
Question 3: Do you prefer travelling by car or by train?
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, mentioning when the other is better.
Question 4: Has transport in your area changed in recent years?
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 present perfect and give one specific change, such as a new metro line.
Question 5: Describe a time when you had to wait for a long time. (speak for one to two minutes after one minute of prepar…
Tell the story in order: the situation, the waiting and how it ended. Describe your feelings with clear adjectives and end with what you learned or would do differently.
Question 6: Why do some people find it hard to be patient?
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 modern life, instant services and stress, with an example.
Question 7: Which public services in your country make people wait the longest?
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. Name one or two, such as hospitals or government offices, and explain why.
Question 8: How can organisations reduce waiting times?
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 online booking and better staffing, and explain the benefit.
Question 9: Do you think technology has made people less patient?
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 examples of both.
Question 10: Is waiting ever useful?
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. Consider anticipation, thinking time and planning, and give a view with an example.