IELTS Lesson 02: 999 IELTS Speaking Test Real Questions (Updated Feb. 2025)

IELTS Speaking Part 1 is the most important:

1. First Impression Matters – It helps the examiner assess your fluency, pronunciation, and confidence from the start. A strong beginning can boost your confidence for the rest of the test.

2. Natural and Spontaneous Responses – Since the questions are personal and familiar, it's your chance to speak naturally without pressure, showing your ability to communicate effortlessly.

3. Foundation for Higher Scores – A good Part 1 performance can create a positive impression, making the examiner more receptive to your speaking skills in later parts.

4. Opportunity to Show Range – Even simple questions allow you to demonstrate a variety of vocabulary, sentence structures, and pronunciation, which are key scoring criteria.

Mastering Part 1 helps you stay relaxed and perform better in the more challenging Parts 2 and 3! 😊

Updated 2025:

1. How do you usually spend your weekends?

Band 6 Answer:

"On weekends, I usually relax at home. I watch movies, play games, or sleep late. Sometimes, I go out with friends to eat or shop. I like weekends because I don’t have to study or work."

✅ Why is this Band 6?

• Simple sentence structure with minimal complexity.

• Basic vocabulary (“relax at home,” “watch movies,” “go out with friends”).

• Lack of depth – doesn’t explain why these activities are enjoyable.

Band 9 Answer:

"My weekends vary depending on my mood and workload, but I usually try to balance productivity and relaxation. In the mornings, I enjoy sleeping in a little before having a slow breakfast while catching up on a book or a podcast. If the weather is nice, I might go for a walk or visit a café to unwind. On Saturday evenings, I often meet friends for dinner or a movie. Sundays are usually my reset days—I plan my week, do some house chores, and prepare mentally for Monday. I love weekends because they give me a chance to recharge while still being productive."

✅ Why is this Band 9?

• Well-structured and detailed response – explains different activities and their purpose.

• Advanced vocabulary and phrases (“balance productivity and relaxation,” “catching up on a book or a podcast,” “reset days”).

• Fluent and natural progression of ideas – smoothly connects different activities instead of listing them.

2. Do you prefer reading books or watching movies?

Band 6 Answer:

"I like watching movies more because they are fun and easy to understand. Reading books takes too long, and sometimes it’s boring. But if a book is very interesting, I will read it. I think movies are a better way to enjoy a story."

✅ Why is this Band 6?

• Limited vocabulary and reasoning (“fun and easy to understand,” “books take too long”).

• Simple sentence structure without much variety.

• Doesn’t provide a deep explanation of why movies are preferable beyond being “fun.”

Band 9 Answer:

"I enjoy both, but I would say I prefer watching movies because they bring stories to life through visuals, music, and acting. A well-directed film can be a deeply immersive experience, making it easier to connect with the emotions of the characters. That said, books allow for deeper exploration of a story, as they often provide more details and insight into a character’s thoughts. If I want a quick and entertaining experience, I choose a movie, but when I have more time and want to use my imagination, I prefer a book. It really depends on my mood and the type of story I’m interested in."

✅ Why is this Band 9?

• Balanced and well-developed answer – doesn’t just pick one but explains both perspectives.

• Sophisticated vocabulary and expressions (“deeply immersive experience,” “connect with the emotions of the characters”).

• Clear explanation of preferences rather than just stating them.

3. What type of weather do you like the most?

Band 6 Answer:

"I like sunny weather because it makes me feel happy. When it’s sunny, I can go outside, meet friends, or go to the park. But I don’t like very hot weather because it’s uncomfortable. I think cool, sunny days are the best."

✅ Why is this Band 6?

• Simple vocabulary and limited description (“sunny weather makes me happy,” “cool, sunny days are the best”).

• Lack of deeper reasoning – doesn’t explain why sunny weather affects mood or what makes hot weather uncomfortable.

• Basic sentence structure without variety.

Band 9 Answer:

"My favorite type of weather is a cool, sunny day with a gentle breeze. I find this weather perfect because it allows me to enjoy outdoor activities comfortably, whether it’s going for a walk, cycling, or simply sitting outside with a book. The sunlight boosts my mood, but I don’t like extreme heat because it can be exhausting. I also enjoy occasional rainy days, as they create a cozy atmosphere, perfect for staying indoors with a cup of tea and a good movie. In general, I prefer moderate weather that offers a balance between warmth and coolness."

✅ Why is this Band 9?

• Well-developed response with specific details – includes personal experiences and a variety of weather conditions.

• Advanced vocabulary (“gentle breeze,” “exhausting,” “cozy atmosphere”).

• Fluent structure with smooth transitions and natural phrasing.

4. Do you prefer working in a team or alone?

Band 6 Answer:

"I prefer working alone because I can focus better. In a team, sometimes people don’t agree, and it’s hard to make decisions. But working in a team is good when you need help. I think both are useful, but I like working alone more."

✅ Why is this Band 6?

• Basic reasoning and examples (“I can focus better,” “sometimes people don’t agree”).

• Limited vocabulary – simple phrases without much variety.

• Minimal development of ideas – states a preference but doesn’t explain when teamwork is beneficial.

Band 9 Answer:

"I believe both individual and team work have their advantages, but I personally prefer working alone because it allows me to concentrate and manage my time efficiently. When I work independently, I can make decisions quickly and structure my tasks without relying on others. However, teamwork is valuable for brainstorming and solving complex problems, as different perspectives often lead to innovative ideas. In certain situations, such as group projects, collaboration is essential, but for tasks requiring deep focus, I find working alone more productive. Ultimately, the ideal approach depends on the nature of the work."

✅ Why is this Band 9?

• Balanced perspective with logical reasoning – acknowledges both sides and explains when each is preferable.

• Advanced vocabulary and expressions (“manage my time efficiently,” “brainstorming and solving complex problems”).

• Well-structured answer – ideas flow smoothly and naturally.