IELTS SPEKING TOPICS WITH SAMPLE ANSWERS

TASK1

Flowers

1. Do you like to have flowers in your home?

I love flowers so I often buy a (1) bouquet of roses at home. The (2) scent of roses make me feel so
relaxed and happy

2. Where would you go to buy flowers?

Normally I buy from the (1)street vendors as the flowers are convenient and cheap. I sometimes buy
at florists because they have flowers which are (2) out of ordinary.

3. On what occasions would you give someone flowers?

I think flowers can be given anytime no matter what kind of event it is. Different flower has different
meaning so flowers complement the present and make it more special.

4. Where can you see flowers in your country?

Well, flowers are everywhere. There are lots of flowers on the street or painted on the clothes. They
(1) harmonize with the surroundings and make it more (2) stunning

5. FLOWERSAre flowers important in your culture?

Id say yes. Flowers add (1) a splash of color so a room would be (2) gloomy and boring without them.
Besides, they make people feel peaceful and happy with (3) riot of colors .

6. What flowers have special meaning in your country?

In my country, lotus is (1) national flower because it (2) symbolizes purity and optimism. It is the flower
which grows in muddy water and bloom with (3) remarkable beauty

SCIENCE

1. Do you like science?

Yes, I do. I find them (1) intriguing as it reveals hidden secrets. Im a (2) curious person so science
enables me to explain everything in logical way

2. What science subject at school do/did you like the most? [Why?]
 Im interested in chemistry and biology, because I love to find out how our bodies work and get to know
better the things that surround us daily. Those subjects (1) excite me in a way that nothing can make and
(2) Im still into it now.

3. Whats the most interesting (part of) science to you?

I love working with something as(1) complex as the brain. We hardly know how it works at all but every
day we find out a little bit more and we can use that information not only to help people who are sick but
also in completely different areas of science like (2) artificial intelligence

4. Is there anything about science that you dislike?

At some schools,science is taught poorly which (1) kills the students interest. Science is supposed to
(2) figure out the answers for mistery things but the (3) lack of cutting-edge facilities in the lab makes it
more difficult. Besides, lots of experiments need to be taken so it takes lots of time to find true result.

5. Is your work related to science?

Im an English teacher so it is irrelevant to science. My job is all about vocabulary and grammar and there
is no experiment at all. But I think science is really intriguing and I sometimes watch some science
programs on Discovery channel

NOISE

1. Are there lots of noise in your place?

Well, my city is a crowded place so there are lots of noises. They come from traffic, industrial areas and
so on

2. Are you affected by the noise?

If the sound is not too loud, I can still focus but I cant stand loud noise for a long time. It causes
headache and tiredness

3. Is life getting noiser than the past?

I do agree. The cities are developing significantly so more and more industrial zones will be built. Our
lives will be noiser as a result

4. What kind of noise do you like?

 I like loud music, indeed. It blows my mind so I can relieve all of pressure and get back to work more
effective

5. What sounds do you dislike?

Im really bothered by the noise of the drill. It seems never stops and makes me furious

6. What sounds remind you of your childhood?

Its the sound of the beach. It (1) brings the sense of tranquility and reminds me of old days. I had lots of
(2) joyful moments with the beach with friends so that sound comforts me

IELTS Speaking Part 2

Describe a situation that you got a little angry.

You should say:
where it happened
when it happened
who you were with
and why you felt angry?
I do not usually get angry and definitely not (1) short-tempered person who get angry easily for silly
reasons. Yet there was a time when I was so angry with my friends that we didnt talk for some days. I
have a friend coming from India and that was his first trip to Vietnam . I was so excited to meet him and
I even asked my friend to join. We were both (2) eager to that day and set up so many plans. After
having breakfast , I received a call from my friend that shed be late for 10 minutes. I was a bit nervous
that she would not (3)show up but I still (4) assured her that we could wait and I didnt want to rush
her. My friend is the one who always comes late so I reminded her that the plan wouldnt work
out without her. We waited for her for 40 minutes then she told me she couldnt make it. Moreover, the
reason she gave was unacceptable. She told me that she had to stay at home for her upcoming exam. I
was(5) furious and so embarrassed with my friend. He didnt say anything but I know he was unhappy.
She made us wait for an hour and (6) made a bad impression for a new friend. I tried to (7)calm the
water and changed the plan to (8) make up for my friend. That was the time when I was about to
(9) lose my temperand I dont want to be in that situation again

IELTS Speaking Part 3

1. Do you think people like expressing or hiding emotion?

I think that it depends on gender. It is very obvious that men and women differ in the way they each
(1) express their emotions. While women tend to (2) confide with their friends about everything, men are
likely to (3) hide it away. For instance, women can cry over broken up for a long time and they still
remember how does it feel later on. Men just go angry and bitter about the relationship for a while

2. Do people in your country show or hide emotions?

Its hard to say as different people have different way to express their emotions. I guess the young tend to
express emotions easier than the elderly. They arent mature enough so they smile when they are happy
and cry when they are (1) blue. They express (2) raw emotions even negative ones. On the other hand,
adults or old people are less likely to share some emotions like depression or confusion. Maybe they dont
want to make others worried so they (3) disguise their feelings

3. What do you think about people who hide their emotions?

I think they are emotional independence. They arent easily controlled by emotion no matter how
negative it is . Some people are vulnerable so if they mask it, theyll be more optimistic and stronger.
Thats why they dont want their true emotions be seen by others and keep it private.

4. How can the kids recognize emotions of others?

Ive never thought about this question before.. I guess they can recognize by (1) facial
expressions or(2) body language, tone of voice. The kids will know how to (3) identify emotions when
they learn how to (4) read those expressions

1. A Penny for Your Thoughts ask someone who is being very quiet what they are thinkingabout
==> For several minutes they sat silently, then finally she looked at him and said, A penny foryour thoug
hts, Walter.

2. Against the clock do something as fast as possible and try to finish it before a certain time.
==>With her term paper due on Monday, she was racing against the clock to finish it

3. Lend an ear to listen carefully and in a friendly way to someone

==> If you have any problems, go to Claire. Shell always lend a sympathetic ear.

4. on cloud nine very happy; deliriously happy

==>She just bought her first new car and shes on cloud nine.

5. bushed tired.
==>I am totally bushed after staying up so late.

6. hard feelings the emotion of being upset or offended.

==>I am sorry I have to fire you. No hard feelings, okay?

7. hit the hay go to bed

==> Its after 12 oclock. I think its time to hit the hay.

8. be sick to death of something/doing something to

be angry and bored becausesomething unpleasant has been happening for too long
==>Im sick to death of doing nothing but work. Lets go out tonight and have fun.

9. (come) rain or shine means something will happen regardless of weather or other difficulties.
==>I will be on time for the class, rain or shine. Come rain or shine, she is always smiling.

10. be all ears eager and ready to listen

==>Im all ears, waiting to hear your latest excuse for not getting this job done!
11. in the nick of time not too late, but very close
==>I got to the drugstore just in the nick of time. Its a good thing, because I really need this medicine!

12. fresh/clean out of something have sold or used up the last of something
==>I have to go buy some more milk. It seems were fresh out now.

13. have/get mixed feelings about something to be uncertain about something

==> I have mixed feelings about my trip to England. I love the people, but the climate upsets me.

14. Give it ones best shot do the best that one can
==>This test question is really tough! Ill give it my best shot, and Ill get some marks for doing my best.

15. In deep water in difficulty; in trouble or in a dangerous situation

==>He has not submitted his dissertation so hes in deep water.

16. next to nothing to cost very little

==>I went to the new discount store and bought these new shoes for only five dollars. Thats next to
nothing!

17. To be up in arms about something upset or angry about something.

==> She has been UP IN ARMS about the rent increase.

18. Put yourself in somebodys shoes imagine that you are in somebodys position in order to
understant his/her feelings
==> If you put yourself in my shoes, you would understand why I made that decision

19. At all costs do everything you can to achieve/succeed something

==> My dream is to become a successful businessman and I will work hard for it AT ALL COSTS

20. Explore all avenues investigate every possible means to find a solution to a givenproblem or
to achieve a desired outcome.

= We need to EXPLORE ALL AVENUES before doing something that is not very safe to a great
number of people in order to minimize unfavourable consequences

21. On the ball active and aware of things

==>Our staff is really on the ball to get projects done on time.

22. Throw in the towel Give up on something

==>Ive spent too much time on this project to throw in the towel now.

23. Down to earth practical and realistic; Back to reality

==> Its time we were brought down to earth to figure out difficult situation, and offer a good solution.

24. Full of beans A person who is lively, active and healthy.

==> I really enjoy being with my best friend because he is always full of beans.

25. Get a head start Start before all others.

==>This year well get a head start on the competition by running more advertisements.
What is your area of specialization?

My major is Plant Biotechnology. I have been into Biology since I was in high school and I
think a shift to a field where Biology and advanced technology are associated would be
interesting and promising for my future career.

Major (n) the most important subject that a college or university student is studying

To be into something (phrase) really like something

Do you like your major? (Why?/Why not?)

To tell you the truth it was quite challenging for me at first, because the universitys
requirements are especially high and you know science itself highly demands skillful hands and
curious mind. However, as time goes by I think Im getting used
to an insurmountableamount of pressure and actually enjoy my study.

Go by (phrasal verb) if time goes by, it passes

Get used to Verb-ing/something (phrase) If you get used to something, you become
familiar with it

Insurmountable (adj) incapable to overcome (problem/difficult)

What kind of school did you go to as a child?

Well just like most of the pupils, I spent five years at the governments primary school. It took
me only 10 minutes to go to school and I had my parents take me to school everyday. Classes
start at 7 in the morning and end at 5 in the evening.

What was your favourite subject as a child?

To tell you the truth, I was quite good at Literature back then. Besides, my Literature teacher
was really dedicated and caring, thus I always tried my best to get high scores and impressed
my teacher.

Back then (phrase) an expression you can use in order to refer to a specific period of time in
the past

Are you looking forward to working?

To be honest, working is actually my plan B just in case I need to make ends meet. In the
future I think my higher degree is my priority.

Vocabulary

Plan B (n) back-up plan

To make ends meet (v) to make money, to earn a living

Watches

Do you like to wear watches?

Well, I am more a cosmetics girl than clothing and accessories, hence, there are not many
watches and jewelries in my possession. However, I have nothing against wearing a
beautiful piece of art on my wrist and do own a few exclusive timepieces which suit perfectly
with my clothing on some special occasions, giving me a sense of identity and
uniqueness.
 Vocabulary

In someones possession: if something is in someones possession, they have it

Have nothing against: to dislike or not approve of someone or something for a particular
reason

On (special) occasions: from time to time; now and then

Have you ever received a watch as a gift?

Let me see. More than half of the watches in my little jewelry box are presents from my family
and friends. And by that I mean 3 pieces since I only own 4 in total. They all know I am not
extremely fond of collecting these types of accessories but make-up kits and the likes.
Therefore, it would soothe their souls to see me in watches because according to them, time is
so precious that I need to be reminded every second.

Vocabulary

Be fond of = be interested in = be keen on

Soothe someones soul: To bring comfort, composure, or relief

Speaking Part 2

Describe a small business that you would like to open

You should say:

What this business would be

Where it would be located
What people you would hire as employees
And explain why youd like to have this small business.

Sample Answer

It goes without saying that future is quite uncertain and almost no one can predict exactly
what is waiting for them ahead, however, to some extent I always believe that our
future depends on our plans and actions at present. As a fresh graduate, I want to become
an entrepreneur and run a chain of boutique shops selling stylish clothing, dresses and
jewelry. This is probably because ever since I was a kid, I have had a great passion
for designing and sewing pieces of garments, firstly for my doll and then for real people
around me. Gradually, I constantly get more insights into fashion industry and keep me posted
with clothes that are in the thing. Although I am currently majoring in economics instead of
fashion designing, I hold a strong belief that my acute business sense and a sincere
interest in the clothing business will help me to succeed in the future. Nevertheless, I always
have to remind me that opening and running an apparel store is serious business and that I
have to put one hundred percent effort in leading it to success as well as get ready
to face up to failures. I guess thats why some people around me wonder why I want to give
up the safety of my corporate job with good compensation package such as steady income,
insurance, pension plan, long vacations and the opportunity for rapid promotion just to
become a small business owner. The answer is indeed quite simple for me, which is I want to
walk out of my comfort zone, challenge myself in a new business and last but not least,
give myself a chance to fulfil my childhood dream.

Vocabulary

Go without saying (that) to be completely obvious or true

To some/a certain/a limited extent (phrase) partly, but not completely

Entrepreneur (noun) someone who uses money to start businesses and make business deals

Garment (noun) a piece of clothing. This word is used especially when talking about the
production and sale of clothes

Major in (phrase) to study something as your main subject at college or university

Acute (adj) used for describing the senses and abilities of someone who notices things very
quickly and easily

Apparel (noun) a word for clothes, used especially in stores or other businesses

Face up to (something/somebody) to confront with courage someone or something

representing a threat or unpleasantness.

Compensation package (phrase) the salary and other benefits that an employee receives

Comfort zone (idiom) a situation or position in which a person feels secure, comfortable, or
in control
 Fulfill ones dream (collocation) realize a dream, make dream come true

Speaking Part 3

What challenges and difficulties do people face when they try to have a successful
small business?

I think some of the hardships that small business owners might have to face include increasing
profits and growing revenues while still paying close attention to details like client relationships.
On the other hand, for many small businesses, client dependence is a huge issue. If a business
depends on a single customer for more than half its income, that should raise a huge red flag, a
situation which can threaten the businesses growth and stability.

What should be the governments role in how small businesses are run?

I personally believe the government should create specific programs to help small businesses
start and continue to grow by offering start-up incentives, providing loan guarantees and
encouraging local banks to work with start-ups or regional businesses that wish to expand.
Lowering corporate taxes and making the regulatory process simpler can also foster even more
small-business growth.

What kinds of small business are most popular in your country?

Probably street food vendors and local convenience stores. Street food has always been a
vital and vibrant part in my country, so as long as the owners can offer high food quality along
with some uniqueness to set their stores apart from other competitors on the market, I believe
the business will achieve at least semi-success. Meanwhile, local convenience stores are usually
guaranteed a loyal customer base that is the local residents so I think they have a higher
chance of breaking even and increasing the bottom line.

VOCABULARY

Red flag (noun): a sign of danger

Youre not allowed to swim when the red flag is flying.

Startup (noun): a small business that has just been started

Working on a startup business can produce a real mix of emotions.

Vendor (noun): a person or company offering something for sale, especially a trader in the
street
She glanced around quickly, and her eyes caught a street vendor who was selling ice cream.
 Convenience store (noun): a shop that sells food, drinks, etc. and is usually open until late
The biggest difference in services between a grocery and convenience store is that the latter
usually sells gasoline.

Customer base (noun): the people who buy or use a particular product or service
A customer base is absolutely essential for business success.

To break even: to have no profit or loss at the end of a business activity

After paying for our travel costs, we barely (= only just) broke even.

Bottom line (noun): the final line in the accounts of a company or organization, stating the
total profit or loss that has been made
How will the rise in interest rates affect our bottom line