The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) speaking test is designed to assess a candidate’s ability to communicate in English across various contexts. Whether you’re preparing for your own IELTS exam or simply want to understand how the speaking test unfolds, this real-life example of an IELTS speaking test offers valuable insights. Let’s delve into a detailed analysis of a speaking test conducted on March 18, 2019, featuring the candidate Stela and the examiner Tharun.
The IELTS speaking test is divided into three parts: a general introduction and interview, a cue card task, and a discussion based on the cue card topic. Each part is designed to evaluate different aspects of the candidate’s English-speaking abilities, such as fluency, coherence, vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation.
Setting the Stage:
The session begins with the examiner verifying the candidate’s identity and explaining that the entire session will be recorded for further verification.
In the first part of the test, the examiner asks the candidate a series of questions about familiar topics, such as friendships.
Question: Do you prefer to have a large number of friends, or just a few close friends?
Stela’s Response: I prefer having a few close friends. I believe that friendship is a powerful bond, almost a gift from God, and should be chosen carefully. I emphasize that friendships can lead to the best relationships and outcomes, which shows how much I value quality over quantity in my social interactions.
Question: Do you keep in touch with any childhood friends?
Stela’s Response: Yes, I maintain friendships with my childhood friends. I believe that old friends understand me better than newer ones because we share a history that current friends may not fully grasp.
Question: Do you find it easy to make friends?
Stela’s Response: I find it easy to make friends, although it takes some time. I believe that the ease of making friends depends on how I communicate and build connections.
Question: How often do you see your friends?
Stela’s Response: I meet my friends whenever I have free time. This could be during outings, college get-togethers, or other social gatherings.
Question: What do you usually do with your friends?
Stela’s Response: I share my joys and sorrows with my friends. I also offer help to them whenever needed, which highlights the supportive nature of my friendships.
Question: Have you made any friends over the internet?
Stela’s Response: Yes, I have made friends online through platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp. I’ve noticed that many people today build friendships through social media.
Question: How do you maintain a good friendship?
Stela’s Response: I believe that maintaining a good friendship requires dedicating time and understanding the true value of the relationship. For me, recognizing the importance of friendship is key to keeping it strong.
Question: Would you tell a friend everything?
Stela’s Response: I believe that not everything needs to be shared with friends. I stress the importance of discerning what is relevant and necessary to communicate, rather than sharing everything indiscriminately.
The second part of the test is the cue card task, where the candidate is given a topic and one minute to prepare. Stela was asked to describe a festival that is important in her country.
Cue Card Topic:
Stela’s Response:
I chose to describe Diwali, a major festival in India known as the “Festival of Lights.” I explained that Diwali symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and the triumph of good over evil. It is celebrated throughout India, with particular emphasis in the northern regions.
During Diwali, people light lamps in front of their homes, visit temples, and set off fireworks. However, I expressed my dislike for the fireworks due to the pollution they cause. I recounted my first experience celebrating Diwali in Hyderabad, where I enjoyed the festivities, including setting off fireworks and indulging in sweets.
I also highlighted the cultural aspect of Diwali, where people exchange sweet boxes as gifts. This tradition, along with the communal aspect of the festival, makes Diwali a cherished event in Indian society.
In the final part of the speaking test, the examiner engages the candidate in a discussion related to the cue card topic.
Question: Do you think the significance of some festivals is lost today? Is this a good or bad thing?
Stela’s Response: I believe that the significance of festivals is diminishing because people no longer understand their true value. Festivals are meant to bring communities together and foster social connections, but modern lifestyles and busy schedules have reduced their importance.
Question: Can we find a solution to this concern?
Stela’s Response: I suggest that people need to be more aware of the true meaning of festivals. I believe that understanding the cultural and historical significance of festivals, like Diwali, can help restore their importance in society.
Question: Do you think new festivals will be created in the future? What kinds of festivals might emerge?
Stela’s Response: I speculate that new festivals might emerge in response to environmental changes. For example, as rainfall becomes less common, people might celebrate the arrival of rain as a festival in the future.
Question: How does globalization affect festivals around the world?
Stela’s Response: I believe that globalization has made festivals less popular, as people become more focused on individual achievements and personal happiness. I feel that the communal aspect of festivals is being lost as people become more isolated.
Question: Is it good to watch festivals on TV?
Stela’s Response: I think that watching festivals on TV does not offer the same experience as participating in them. While it can be informative, I believe that true understanding and enjoyment of a festival come from being actively involved.
Question: How do festivals today differ from those in the past?
Stela’s Response: I note that in the past, festivals were celebrated with greater enthusiasm, especially in joint families where everyone participated. Nowadays, with the rise of nuclear families, the celebrations are more subdued, and the true spirit of festivals is often lost.
This speaking test provides a comprehensive look at how a candidate might navigate the IELTS speaking section. Stela’s responses demonstrate her ability to articulate her thoughts clearly, maintain coherence, and use appropriate vocabulary. Whether you’re preparing for your own test or simply curious about the process, this example offers valuable insights into the structure and expectations of the IELTS speaking exam.
