Your Top 5 IELTS Speaking Questions Answered
March 02, 2022
Table of Contents
- How long should my answers be in Part 1 of the IELTS speaking test?
- Do I have to speak for 2 minutes in Part 2?
- Will I get a lower grade if I ask a grader to repeat a question?
- What kind of topics are on the test?
- Is my accent going to be a problem?
- IELTS Test Tips
- The Bottom Line
It’s very common for candidates to fear the IELTS test, but don’t worry, we are here to support all healthcare professionals who start their journey with Avant Healthcare Professionals!
Avant Healthcare Professionals conducts one-on-one preparation courses for the IELTS Speaking test with its candidates. During this course, our teachers address many questions about the exact nature of the test and what to expect. Let's review the top 5 IELTS speaking questions asked and answers to help you feel more confident about the exam and get the high score you seek.
IELTS preparation is essential for healthcare professionals aspiring to study or work in the US. Adequate preparation increases the likelihood of achieving a higher score and opens doors to a world of opportunities! The IELTS Speaking test is designed to assess candidates’ proficiency in English. It helps enhance communication skills, cultural adaptability, and an overall confidence in an increasingly globalized world. An IELTS preparation course is an investment that delivers both short-term and long-term benefits, making it an essential step in achieving your dreams of becoming a USRN.
5 Most Common Questions about the IELTS Speaking Test
1. How long should my answers be in Part 1 of the IELTS speaking test?
Deliver “short and sweet” sentences.
Part 1 is where the IELTS grader first gets a sense of how strong your English skills are. In this section, expect 8 to 10 questions about your work or study, where you live, and your family and friends. The IELTS grader operates under a time limit – about 4 ½ minutes. That is a broad territory to cover in such a short amount of time. Plus, she or he must ask the selected sample questions to each to be fair. Therefore, given the numerous questions in a short time, your answers need to be no longer than two (2) sentences.
Your task is to deliver full and complete answers as timely as possible. You do not want the IELTS official to stop you during your answer because of time.
For example: Where are you from? Do not simply answer: “I am from the Philippines” or “I am from Manila.”
First, the reply does not show your English or speaking skills range. Second, test takers could fall into the trap of thinking the IELTS Speaking test format is Questions and Answers. It is not!
Every question is an opportunity to show how well you can manage the English language. Instead, try this answer: “I am from the capital of the Philippines, Manila, a city of nearly two million people.” Notice the details you provide: Manila is the capital of the country and the (estimated) population figure. Also, a complex grammar structure is used – the appositive.
All this happens in one sentence! In Part 1 IELTS, keep your replies short and full of details.
2. Do I have to speak for two minutes in Part 2?
Yes. You aim to use as much of the 2 minutes as possible in Part of the IELTS Speaking test. Remember, your answer should be in the form of a story. Be sure to paraphrase any keywords from the prompt. Use discourse markers where appropriate.
The speaking test is essential to see your English proficiency progress. Avant Healthcare Professionals has incredible teachers who will guide you along the IELTS preparation courses before you take the test!
3. Will I get a lower grade if I ask a grader to repeat a question?
Not necessarily.
How and when you ask for repetition is important. In Part 1, given the limited time, it is best to avoid any requests. In Part 2, you are provided a speaking question on a cue card. However, in Part 3, the Discussion, the opportunity arises if you wish to clarify a question.
Use “conversational fillers” to verify a question by showing the IELTS official your paraphrasing power. These can help show the IELTS test expert your great English language skills!
For example: “To clarify, are you asking if social media like Facebook and Twitter are harmful to children?”
Other Conversational Filler for Clarification:
- If I understand correctly…
- Not sure I caught that; do you mean…
- Let me clarify: Do you mean (paraphrase the question)?
4. What kind of topics are on the test?
Candidates need to be aware of topics that frequently appear on the IELTS exam. When test day comes, you’ll want to be prepared and focus on topics that will enhance your language skills. Speaking tests can be intimidating, but fear not, practice makes perfect, and we are here to help!
For example, some topics that will appear include: technology, education, environment, careers, food, and travel.
It is important to be aware of the vocabulary associated with these subjects. Thus, vocabulary study should include collocation, idioms, and phrasal verbs associated with these topics. These question types help the candidate display appropriate language skills. You can also prepare sample answers for the speaking test as you study!
Check out this resource to expand your topical vocabulary.
5. Is my accent going to be a problem?
Accents are not an issue on the IELTS exam as long as the candidate is understandable.
Accents can be a noteworthy aspect when taking the IELTS exam. The IELTS is an international test, so examiners are accustomed to hearing a wide range of English accents from around the world. While the primary aim of the test is to assess your ability to understand and communicate in English effectively, it's essential to be prepared for the diversity of accents you may encounter. However, candidates must ensure their intonation and rhythm are optimal for a high score.
Even native English speakers have some type of accent!
IELTS Test Tips:
Time Management is Key:
- The IELTS speaking test is strictly timed, so time management is crucial. Each question carries the same weight in the reading and listening sections, so don't spend too much time on any single question. If you're unsure, make an educated guess and move on. You can always come back to it later if time permits.
- In the writing section, allocate your time wisely. Plan your essays before you start writing to ensure a well-structured response. Aim to spend about 20 minutes on Task 1 and 40 minutes on Task 2.
- For the speaking section, practice speaking within the time limits set for each part. Keep your responses concise and to the point, and don't worry too much about filling every second of silence. Examiners appreciate clarity and coherence over sheer volume.
Understand the Question Types:
- Familiarize yourself with the different question types in each section. For instance, in the reading section, you may encounter multiple-choice questions, true/false/not given questions, and more. Understanding these question types can help you approach them strategically.
- In the listening section, pay close attention to the instructions and question types. Sometimes, you might be asked to complete a sentence, label a diagram, or answer a multiple-choice question. Knowing what to expect will help you listen with purpose.
These tips, coupled with regular practice, can significantly improve your performance on the IELTS exam. Remember that familiarity with the test format and effective time management are as important as language skills when aiming for a high score.
The Bottom Line
Now, you can use these five frequently asked questions to help plan your strategy for a high IELTS Speaking score. Be sure to time your responses according to test conditions. Study vocabulary to adequately answer any potential questions. Above all, practice to build confidence for success on exam day.
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