IELTS Speaking Part 1 Giving Relevant Answers
TEST TIP: Your responses must directly answer the examiner’s question.
Read the following questions. Which response, A, B, C or D, completely answers the question?
Question 1: What time do you like getting up in the morning?
a) I really hate getting up in the morning.
b) I have no idea.
c) I have to get up really early because I’m a doctor so I usually get up around 6.30, but if I had the choice, I’d prefer to get up at 9 o’clock.
d) I am a single mum so I have to get up at 5.00. I make breakfast for my children. Then I have to get my children ready for school. I get them dressed and take them to school and then I go to work. I drive to work and the traffic is always bad in my city so it takes me a really long time to get there.
Question 2: How often do you use the library?
a) Not as much as I should, but I try to go at least once a week.
b) I’m a teacher and I make sure my students go to the library every day because I know how important that is for them and for their learning.
c) I think libraries are so important for us.
d)We have the internet now so I don’t believe people see the need to go to libraries anymore. It’s really a bad thing.
Question 3: Do you think it’s important to make plans?
a) Of course, why not?
b) I have made an important plan recently. I’m going to my new job in Australia so that’s why this IELTS is very important for me. I need level 7. It’s really necessary for me and my family.
c) I’m an English teacher, so I have to make lesson plans every day. It’s an essential part of my job.
d) Absolutely. A plan is what gives you direction. I think we probably save a lot of time by making plans before we do something.
Giving Relevant Answers Exam Tips
1. In Part I the examiner cannot explain the questions; they can only repeat them. Check you have understood by asking YES/NO questions like:
Question: Will you have to study more before you start working?
– Do you mean will I need work experience?
– Are you asking me if I will need to do another course?
– Can I just check, do you mean; will I need to do another course?
– These questions can be answered using non-verbal communication. i.e. a nod of the head.
2. DO NOT try to influence the examiner. It won’t work! Each question needs a DIRECT answer.
3. DO NOT ignore what the examiner asks. Your job, your university major, your age, your position and your marital status is NOT relevant unless directly asked for.
IELTS Speaking Part 1 Sample Task
Topic: FOOD
Do you think your diet is healthy?
Is traditional food popular in your country?
Do you think it is important that children are encouraged to eat healthily?
