999 IELTS Speaking Test Real Questions (Updated Feb. 2025)

Preparing for the IELTS Speaking test can feel a bit daunting, especially when you’re aiming for a higher band score. The difference between a Band 6 and a Band 9 isn’t just about grammar or vocabulary—it’s about how naturally and confidently you express your ideas. In this blog, I’ll break down real IELTS Speaking Part 1 questions with both Band 6 and Band 9 answers, showing you exactly what makes the difference. Whether you’re looking to avoid common mistakes or aiming to sound more like a native speaker, this guide will help you understand what examiners are looking for and how to elevate your responses. Let’s dive in!

Updated 2025:

1. Do you love stories from your childhood?

Band 6 Answer:
"Yes, I do. I really liked the stories my parents told me when I was a kid. They were often fairy tales or bedtime stories. They made me feel happy and helped me sleep. I still remember some of them now."

✅ Why is this Band 6?

• Simple and clear answer

• Basic vocabulary and sentence structures

• Limited development and explanation of ideas

Band 9 Answer:
"Absolutely! Childhood stories hold a special place in my heart. My parents often read me classic fairy tales and adventure stories before bed, which not only sparked my imagination but also taught me valuable life lessons. Even now, I find myself reminiscing about those tales, as they evoke a comforting sense of nostalgia and remind me of simpler times."

✅ Why is this Band 9?

• Rich, descriptive language (“hold a special place in my heart,” “evoke a comforting sense of nostalgia”)

• Varied sentence structures and a natural flow of ideas

• Deeper insight into the emotional impact and lasting influence of childhood stories

2. Do you like to lend things to others?

Band 6 Answer:
"Yes, I don’t mind lending things to my friends or family. Sometimes they need things like books or tools, and if I’m not using them, I’m happy to help. But I do hope they return them in good condition."

✅ Why is this Band 6?

• Provides a relevant answer with a basic explanation

• Simple vocabulary and sentence structure

• Limited depth in expressing thoughts and feelings

Band 9 Answer:
"Generally, I’m quite open to lending my belongings to close friends and family. I believe that sharing is a sign of trust and support. However, I do set some boundaries—especially with valuable or sentimental items—because past experiences have taught me that not everyone handles things with the same level of care. Nonetheless, if I know the person is responsible, I’m more than happy to help."

✅ Why is this Band 9?

• Offers a nuanced and balanced perspective (“sign of trust and support,” “set some boundaries”)

• Uses a wide range of vocabulary and complex sentence structures

• Explains both the willingness to lend and the conditions under which the user does so

3. What apps have you recently used?

Band 6 Answer:
"I recently used WhatsApp to chat with my friends and family. I also used YouTube to watch videos and learn new things. I like using these apps because they are easy to use and helpful for staying in touch and getting information."

✅ Why is this Band 6?

• Provides a straightforward answer with basic details

• Limited vocabulary and repetitive sentence structure

• Lacks depth in describing specific app features or experiences

Band 9 Answer:
"Recently, I've been using a mix of productivity and entertainment apps. For communication, I rely on WhatsApp and Zoom to stay connected with friends and family, especially those who live abroad. I’ve also been using Notion to organize my tasks and projects—it’s incredibly versatile for taking notes, setting reminders, and managing my schedule. In terms of entertainment, I enjoy spending time on YouTube, not just for fun but also to watch educational videos and tutorials. I find that a balanced mix of practical and leisure apps helps me stay productive while also allowing me to unwind."

✅ Why is this Band 9?

• Demonstrates a wide range of vocabulary and precise language (“rely on,” “incredibly versatile,” “balanced mix”)

• Includes specific examples of how each app is used, showing depth and detail

• Connects different app uses with broader themes of productivity and relaxation

4. Do you like parties?

Band 6 Answer:
"Yes, I like parties. They are fun, and I can meet my friends there. I enjoy the music, food, and talking to people. Sometimes parties can be a bit loud, but I still have a good time."

✅ Why is this Band 6?

• Simple and clear response with basic reasons

• Uses common vocabulary and short sentences

• Provides a general but not detailed explanation

Band 9 Answer:
"I do enjoy parties, but it depends on the type of gathering. I love small, intimate get-togethers where I can have meaningful conversations with close friends over good food and music. These settings make me feel relaxed and connected. On the other hand, large and crowded parties can be a bit overwhelming for me. While I do appreciate the lively atmosphere and the chance to meet new people, I often find myself needing a bit of quiet time afterward to recharge. Overall, I think parties are a wonderful way to celebrate special occasions and build social connections, as long as there’s a good balance between excitement and comfort."

✅ Why is this Band 9?

• Provides a balanced, thoughtful answer with specific preferences

• Uses a range of vocabulary and varied sentence structures (“intimate get-togethers,” “lively atmosphere,” “recharge”)

• Explores both positive and negative aspects of parties, offering deeper insight into personal feelings and experiences

5. Do you enjoy cooking?

Band 6 Answer:
"Yes, I like cooking. I often cook simple meals at home. It’s cheaper and healthier than eating out. I enjoy making pasta and stir-fried vegetables. Sometimes I try new recipes, but I usually stick to easy dishes."

✅ Why is this Band 6?

• Simple and clear answer with basic reasons

• Limited vocabulary and repetitive sentence structure

• Provides general information without much depth or detail

Band 9 Answer:
"Absolutely! Cooking is one of my favorite hobbies. I find it both relaxing and rewarding. I enjoy experimenting with different cuisines, from Italian pasta dishes to spicy Thai curries. I love the creativity involved in combining ingredients and discovering new flavors. Recently, I’ve been trying to recreate my grandmother’s traditional recipes, which not only brings back wonderful childhood memories but also gives me a sense of accomplishment. Besides, cooking at home allows me to control the ingredients and eat healthier. For me, it’s more than just preparing food—it’s a way to express myself and share love with family and friends."

✅ Why is this Band 9?

• Provides a detailed and personal answer with specific examples

• Uses a wide range of vocabulary and expressions (“rewarding,” “experimenting with cuisines,” “sense of accomplishment”)

• Explores the emotional and practical aspects of cooking, offering deeper insight into personal enjoyment and benefits

6. Do you enjoy reading books?

Band 6 Answer:
"Yes, I do. I like reading books in my free time. I mostly read novels and sometimes magazines. Reading helps me relax and learn new things. I think it’s a good hobby."

✅ Why is this Band 6?

• Simple and relevant answer with basic ideas

• Limited vocabulary and basic sentence structures

• The explanation is brief and lacks depth or variety in language

Band 9 Answer:
"Definitely! Reading is a big part of my life. I love getting lost in a good novel, especially fiction that offers a fresh perspective on life. I also enjoy reading non-fiction books about psychology and self-development. They help me gain new insights and improve myself. Recently, I finished a captivating novel by Kazuo Ishiguro, which left me reflecting on its themes for days. I believe that reading not only broadens my knowledge but also enhances my creativity and critical thinking. Plus, it’s a perfect way to unwind after a long day, allowing me to escape into different worlds through the pages of a book."

✅ Why is this Band 9?

• Provides a well-rounded and thoughtful answer with specific book genres and examples

• Uses advanced vocabulary and varied sentence structures (“gain new insights,” “broadens my knowledge,” “enhances my creativity”)

• Offers deeper insights into the impact of reading on personal growth and relaxation