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 do you usually do 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. Describe a typical weekend and add one reason you enjoy it.
Question 2: Do you prefer busy or quiet 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. Choose one and explain with an example.
Question 3: Did you spend weekends differently 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' to contrast childhood and now.
Question 4: Is there anything you would like to change about your 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. Use 'I'd like to' and give a reason.
Question 5: Describe a place where you like to relax. (speak for one to two minutes after one minute of preparation)
Describe the place with sensory detail, then explain what you do and why it works for you. Use present tenses for habits and a past example of one visit.
Question 6: Why do people find it hard to relax nowadays?
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 work pressure and constant connection, with an example.
Question 7: Should employers do more to help staff relax?
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 view with practical examples such as breaks or flexible hours.
Question 8: Are public parks important in 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. Explain the benefits for health and community, and any drawbacks.
Question 9: Do young and old people relax in different ways?
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 the two groups with examples.
Question 10: Is it a good idea to go on holiday to relax?
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 rest and new experiences against cost and travel stress.