IELTS Speaking Part 1 – Topic: Family (Band 9 Model Answers & Expressions)

If you’re preparing for the IELTS Speaking Test, one of the most common topics you’ll face in Part 1 is Family. This topic is personal, easy to talk about, but also a great opportunity to showcase natural fluency, native expressions, and emotional vocabulary.

Below, you’ll find 10 real IELTS questions, Band 9 sample answers, and a list of advanced expressions to help you sound more natural and confident.

🔹 1. How many people are there in your family?

Sample Answer:
There are four of us in my family — my parents, my younger sister, and me. We’re quite close-knit and always try to have dinner together, no matter how busy we are.

Native/Advanced Expressions:

• a close-knit family

• a family of four

• we get along really well

• share a strong bond

• spend quality time together

🔹 2. Who are you closest to in your family?

Sample Answer:
I’d say I’m closest to my sister. We’re only two years apart, so we grew up doing almost everything together. Even now, we still share secrets and support each other through ups and downs.

Native/Advanced Expressions:

• be on the same wavelength

• share the same interests

• go through thick and thin together

• confide in someone

• have each other’s backs

🔹 3. Do you spend much time with your family?

Sample Answer:
Not as much as I’d like to, to be honest. I live in a different city for work, so I usually only see them on weekends or holidays. But we talk every day through video calls.

Native/Advanced Expressions:

• stay in touch

• catch up regularly

• maintain a close relationship despite the distance

• make time for someone

• bridge the distance through technology

🔹 4. What activities do you like to do with your family?

Sample Answer:
We love cooking together on weekends. My dad is great at grilling, and my mom makes amazing desserts. Sometimes we also go hiking or have movie nights at home.

Native/Advanced Expressions:

• bond over something

• have a family get-together

• go on family outings

• enjoy each other’s company

• create lasting memories

🔹 5. Do you think family is important in your country?

Sample Answer:
Absolutely. In my country, family is considered the cornerstone of society. People often live with their parents even after getting married, and family gatherings are a big deal, especially during festivals.

Native/Advanced Expressions:

• the cornerstone of society

• have strong family ties

• value filial piety

• put family before everything else

• maintain close intergenerational relationships

🔹 6. Have family roles changed compared to the past?

Sample Answer:
Yes, definitely. In the past, men were seen as breadwinners while women took care of the home. But now, both partners usually work, and household responsibilities are shared more equally.

Native/Advanced Expressions:

• gender roles have evolved

• share domestic duties

• a more balanced division of labor

• modern families are more egalitarian

• traditional family structure has shifted

🔹 7. Do you prefer spending time with your family or with friends?

Sample Answer:
That’s a tough one. I enjoy hanging out with my friends because it’s relaxing, but family time feels more meaningful. I’d say it depends on my mood and schedule.

Native/Advanced Expressions:

• hang out with friends

• feel a stronger emotional connection

• it’s not an either-or situation

• cherish both kinds of relationships

• depends on the occasion

🔹 8. How do you usually celebrate special occasions with your family?

Sample Answer:
We usually celebrate at home with a big meal. My mom cooks traditional dishes, and everyone gathers to eat, chat, and exchange gifts. It’s always full of laughter and good food.

Native/Advanced Expressions:

• throw a family party

• have a feast

• gather around the table

• exchange heartfelt gifts

• enjoy a warm family atmosphere

🔹 9. Do you think children should live with their parents until they get married?

Sample Answer:
I don’t think it’s necessary. It depends on the culture and the family. Some people become more independent living alone, while others prefer to stay close for emotional and financial support.

Native/Advanced Expressions:

• live under the same roof

• move out and stand on one’s own feet

• gain a sense of independence

• maintain family closeness

• offer mutual support

🔹 10. What values has your family taught you?

Sample Answer:
My family has always taught me to be honest and respectful. They’ve also shown me the importance of perseverance — to keep going even when things get tough.

Native/Advanced Expressions:

• instill values in someone

• teach me life lessons

• set a good example

• value integrity and respect

• learn the importance of perseverance

💡 IELTS Speaking Tips for “Family” Topic

✅ Be personal, but natural. Don’t memorize; use real examples.
✅ Use linking devices like “actually,” “to be honest,” and “I guess” for flow.
✅ Vary your tone and pace — sound natural, not robotic.
✅ Use phrasal verbs & idioms sparingly — only when they fit the context.
✅ Show emotion — the examiner is also listening for your communication style.

🎯 Final Thoughts

Talking about Family in IELTS Speaking is your chance to show warmth and fluency. Don’t overcomplicate your answers — just focus on speaking naturally, expanding your ideas, and using a mix of advanced and conversational expressions.

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