The document summarizes the format and tasks of the IELTS speaking test. It is divided into three parts totaling 11-14 minutes. Part I is an introduction and interview lasting 4-5 minutes. Part II is a 1-2 minute mini presentation on a given topic. Part III is a 3-5 minute discussion on the topic from Part II. The document provides examples of tasks, assessment criteria, strategies and sample responses to help candidates prepare for the test.

1. IELTS
Speaking
Study Advisers

2. Test Format and Tasks
Format and Tasks
Strategies and Examples
Further Help
References
Questions

3. Test Format
Test Format
– 11 to 14minutes
– One-to-one interview
– Recorded
– Three Parts
Part I – 4 to 5 minutes (Introduction &
interview)
Part II – 1 to 2 minutes (Mini-presentation)
Part III – 3 to 5 minutes (Discussion)

4. Test Format and Tasks
Section One – Introduction & Interview
– Basic Introduction about yourself and some
familiar topics
Home
Hometown
Family
Job
Studies
Interests
Other similar topics

5. Test Format and Tasks – Part II
Part II – Mini-presentation (3 – 4 mins.)
– Talk for about one minute on a subject
selected by the examiner
One minute to prepare the talk
Notes allowed while preparing
Prompts given to facilitate the content
No interruptions while delivering the talk

6. Test Format and Tasks – Part III
Part III – Discussion (3 – 5 minutes)
– Questions related to topic in Part II
– Giving opinions
– Extensive discussion on issues related to the
topic
– Ability to express abstract ideas and support
opinions appropriately

7. Test Format and Tasks:
Assessment Criteria
Effective communication
– Fluency and Coherence
Content - ideas
Delivery – pace
Organisation – structure
– Vocabulary – range & accuracy
– Grammar – range & accuracy
– Pronunciation – comprehensiveness

8. Test Format and Tasks – Speech
Functions
Example of speech functions
– Providing personal information
– Providing non-personal information
– Expressing opinions
– Explaining
– Suggesting
– Justifying opinions
– Speculating

9. Test Format and Tasks – Speech
Functions
Example of speech functions
– Expressing a preference
– Comparing
– Summarising
– Conversation repair
– Contrasting
– Narrating and paraphrasing
– Analysing

10. Example of Part I - Interview
The examiner will
introduce him or herself
to you and ask you your
name. You will then be
asked to tell your
interests, studies or
working life.
Introduction and Interview - speaking Task 1

11. Example of Task – Part II
You will be given a topic to
talk about for 1-2 minutes.
Speaking Test – Individual Talk
Describe a teacher who has
greatly influenced you in your
education. You should say:
•Where you met them
•What subject they taught
•What was special about them and
explain why this person influence you
so much
Speaking Test – Individual Talk

12. Example of Task – Part III
Modern society is often called
“materialistic”. Why do you think
this is?
What are the advantages and
disadvantages of commuting long
distance to work?
What is the role of advertising?
How do you think the Internet will
affect buying patterns in the future
Speaking Test – Two-way Discussion

13. Strategies – Test Tips
Be prepared to respond fully to questions
asked by examiner
Give rounded answers with appropriate
linking words
Don’t waste time trying to write the whole
talk
Use time to jot some key ideas to prompt
you while you are speaking
Practise giving your talk with a clock for
judging how you spend your time

14. Strategies – Test Tips for
Discussion Session
Producing a Reasoned Response
– Re-phrase the question in your own
words
– Decide if any key words raise new
questions
– Do you have clear view on the questions?
– Make sure you can give two sensible
reasons to back your opinions

15. Part I
The examiner will ask you three or four questions based on the topic, such as
Do you live in a house or an apartment?
Which room do you like the most in your home?
In the future, what sort of home would you like to live in?
When the examiner has finished asking you 3 or 4 questions based on the topic,
the examiner will move onto the next topic, by saying something like
"Now let's talk about your hobbies and interests"
After three sets of topics [each with three of four questions] the examiner will
finish Part One and move onto Part Two of the test. Note that Part One of the test
lasts 4 to 5 minutes. If you give longer answers, it is possible that you may only get
two topics. This could be an advantage because there is less chance of getting an
unfamiliar topic!

16. QUESTION: Do you like riding bicycles?
BAD RESPONSE:
"Yes“
BETTER RESPONSE:
"Yes, because it’s fun, good for health, and doesn’t cost a lot."
GREAT RESPONSE
Well, I like to ride bikes for a few reasons. The main reason I like to cycle is
that I think it is really fun and it is a good way to go sightseeing. I’d also like
to point-out that riding a bike is very good for my health because it can
help me to lose weight. I would also like to add that recently I haven't been
riding my bike much, as I am quite busy at work.

17. IELTS Questions with Possible Answers
Intro…
"What kind of food do you like?"
DIVIDE INTO 2 OR 3 PARTS:
This strategy involves giving 2 or 3 reasons for your answer, as follows: Well, there
are three kinds of food that I’m really keen on.
The one I like best is Italian food because…
I also really like to eat Korean food as it’s very…
I’m also kind of partial to Mexican food because it is…
Well, there are three kinds of food that I’m really keen on. The one I like
best is Italian food because I am a big fan of pasta. I also really like to eat
Korean food as it’s very healthy and flavorsome. I’m also kind of partial to
Mexican food because it is so hot and spicy.