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: Is there a park near 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. Say yes or no, then describe it briefly.
Question 2: Do you prefer to spend time outdoors or indoors?
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 and a reason, for example the weather or your mood.
Question 3: Do you like going to crowded places?
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. An honest 'it depends' answer with an example sounds natural.
Question 4: 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. Use time expressions such as 'usually' and 'now and then'.
Question 5: Describe a public place where you like to spend time. (speak for one to two minutes after one minute of prepar…
Describe the place as if the examiner has never seen it. Cover where it is, how often you go and what you do, then explain why it matters to you. Aim for the full two minutes.
Question 6: Why do cities need public spaces such as parks and squares?
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. Think about health, community and the environment.
Question 7: How have public places changed in your country over the last few decades?
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 8: Should governments or private companies be responsible for looking after public spaces?
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 funding, quality and access for everyone.
Question 9: Do people spend less time in public places now that they can socialise online?
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 an example from your own experience.
Question 10: What can be done to make public places safer and more welcoming for older people?
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 two or three practical ideas and say why they would work.