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 like taking photographs?
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. Answer clearly and say what you usually photograph.
Question 2: Do you prefer taking photos with a phone or a camera?
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 why.
Question 3: Do you keep printed photographs 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 where you keep them or explain why you do not.
Question 4: Do you like being in photographs?
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 an honest answer with a reason.
Question 5: Describe a photograph that you like. (speak for one to two minutes after one minute of preparation)
Describe the photo as if the examiner cannot see it: people, place and mood. Then tell the story behind it and explain why it matters to you.
Question 6: Why do people take so many photographs today?
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 smartphones and social media, with a benefit and a drawback.
Question 7: Do photographs help people remember events?
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 and consider whether taking photos can distract from the moment.
Question 8: Should there be limits on taking photos of strangers in public?
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 privacy against freedom, with an example.
Question 9: How has social media changed the way people share photos?
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 past and present, and give a balanced view.
Question 10: Is professional photography still a good career?
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 demand and competition from smartphones, and give an opinion.