IELTS speaking Part 4 sample-Topic: Events/Celebration

Part 4 – Topic: Events/ Celebration 

How people celebrate public events?

I would say a gathering with food, alcohol, friends, and family  is the most common way to celebrate an event across the world. More specifically, for events such as New Years, people like to crowd a central area, such as a main square, usually for a concert or some sort of speaker or count down. Furthermore, people tend to like using fireworks, bells, airhorns or even just shouting when they feel excited about something.

Do you think it is important to celebrate events?

I have mixed feelings about this. On one hand, I think it’s nice to celebrate events to have something to look forward to (feel excited for) throughout the year, but I dislike the pressure aspect of special events. For example, people tend to get so stressed about buying gifts and decorating their homes during the Christmas season that they forget to simply enjoy their time with family and friends. However, when I think about it, I couldn’t imagine a life without celebrating special events.

Should the event be prepared in advance?

I would say so. When weprocrastinate (wait to do something until the last minute), it tends to cause things to get prettyhectic (crazy) at the last minute. However, when we plan too far in advance, it may not go as planned, as things tend to change. For example, maybe an unexpected event arises which causes the plan to change. On the other hand, I don’t think we should plan every detail in advance, as I’ve found that sometimes the spontaneous (unplanned) moments are the most enjoyable. So, all in all it’s about balance. I’d like to have a rough plan (an idea but not a strict plan)of the event   in advance, but not overly detailed nor several months in advance.

How can you prepare an activity?

Well, firstly, I would like to know the approximate number of guests and their ages. Secondly, I would like tobrainstorm (think of ideas) some different ideas of things that would be appealing to the audience. After this, I would find an appropriate place to hold the event, such as a home, a rented venue, outdoor area, etc and start to think about the type of food and refreshments would beappealing (tasteful) for this event. After this, I would start to officially send out invitations via mail or email  and see how many RSVP (respond to event). Upon obtaining the official numbers, I would either make the food and buy the drinks or hire a catering company to take care of the party. As the event approaches, I would double-check with the guests to see how many are coming. I’d say this plan would lead to a successful event.

IELTS Speaking Practice Test 3 in 2019 & Model Answers

Part 1

What kinds of places are crowded?

Almost everything in my city! However, I would say especially the streets. For one, people really like spending time eating and hanging out on the streets. Secondly, since the old streets are narrow, they tend to become overcrowded with vehicles. Moreover, markets and shopping malls are quite hectic (stressful), as people in my country enjoy shopping.

Do you like to go to crowded places?

Not one bit! I start to feel extremely overwhelmed and want to exit the area immediately. Moreover, it’s unpleasant to be pushed and shoved in overcrowded places. Furthermore, it’s even worse in the summer when people are sweating and have body odor (when your armpits sweat)!

Why do some people like to go to crowded places?

Hmm, well I guess they like the chaos (stress). For some, it’s exciting to watch madness (craziness) unfold around them. Furthermore, I think they like the lively feeling that crowded places carry. Perhaps it’s interesting to those who come from smaller places.

Are there many animals or birds where you live?

I am living in a big city so most of animals I see are pets and some wild birds in the park. My family is also raising a cat which is very adorable. In fact, she is like a friend to me.

How often do you watch programmes or read articles about wild animals?

Well, I have never watched any programmes about wildlife because I rarely have time for TV and also found those rather boring. However, I do know some popular channels like Discovery channel or Geographic Nation.

Have you ever been to a zoo or a wildlife park?

Of course, yes, it used to be my favourite weekend destination when I was a kid. I remember how I was so amused to see a peacock with its colourful feathers or a tiger with its sharp claws. Besides that, it is also the only place for city people like me to observe wild creatures

Would you like to have a job working with animals?

To be honest, .. I have never thought about it… working with animals sounds pretty interesting but it also requires certain skills and knowledge. I imagine I can be a vet in the future, who knows, what can happen J

Part 2

Describe a website you use that helps you a lot in your work or studiesYou should say: What the website it How often you use the website What information the website gives you And explain how your work or studies would change if this website didn’t exist

Today I would like talk about Facebook which I think is a very useful social website.

As you have probably known, Facebook is a social network site which was invented by Mark Zuckerberg. I think it has been around for a couple of years but has gained incredible popularity by its user-friendliness and practicality. It does not only help people to connect with their friends but also acquire new knowledge.

In the past, I used Facebook mainly to keep in touch with friends but now I used it to learn IELTS. By using my accounts, I can subscribe to many useful IELTS studying groups such as ieltsmaterial.com from which I am updated with many strategies and techniques to apply in the test. Therefore, it is like killing two birds with one stone, I can both study and relax in the same time.

My life would have been much difficult without Facebook. You know, it is really hard to keep contacts of friends in such a busy world and this website is a wonderful place for me to connect with my friends’ lives. Besides that, it is convenient to have updated information about IELTS pop up in my front page once in a while.

 Part 3

The Internet

Why do some people find the Internet addictive?

There are many reasons for that phenomenon. The first one can be addicted online games which make people get lost in a fantasy world and slowly lose contact with the real one. The second one is maybe we do not have enough interesting outdoor activities for the young to join; therefore, they have no choice but glue themselves to the computer screen all days.

What would the world be like without the Internet?

I was born in the digital era so it is very hard for me to imagine a world without Internet connection. Well, I guess, people will be out of touch with their friends in the online world; however, maybe people can have more face-to-face communication without help of technology.

Do you think that the way people use the Internet may change in the future?

Well it should not change much in the future. Nowadays, people already depend most of their lives on the Internet for example: Facebook, email, Twitter and seem to forget that they have a real life out of computer screens. Of course, there is no doubt about its benefits like storing data online, making international calls, searching information. Despite all those things, Internet should be used more like a tool rather than making it an addicted and harmful habit.

Social media websites

What are the ways that social media can be used for positive purposes?

Social media can be helpful due to its ability to spread information in an incredible speed. This strength has been applied successfully in campaigns to voice out social concerns. For example, Earth Hour is an annual international event where the whole world turns off all electricity to send the message of saving energy and protecting environment. Once the event goes viral, it immediately catches attention of millions of people, as a result, the message can get across widely and effectively.

Why do some individuals post highly negative comments about other people on social media?

Probably it’s because Internet is the place of speech freedom, moreover, people can speak anything without truly holding accountablefor their actions. On social media website, people can be anonymous or even be anyone that they like. If a person is jealous with or hate another person, he or she can go online to trigger negative views about that person, however, this kind of feedback is usually not credible and trustworthy.

Do you think that companies’ main form of advertising will be social media in the future?

Oh yeah, I truly believe that. In fact, we can see that trend even now where majority of companies are investing money more on Facebook, Linkedin and Twitter, especially their target customers are Millenials who Google everything. Although we cannot neglect the role of traditional advertisement like newspaper, TV or billboard, I believe online ads will dominate in the future.

IELTS Speaking Practice Test 2 in 2019 & Model Answers

Part 1

How often do you go to the cinema?

Hmm, hardly ever. For some reason, I’venever been a fan of  (don’t like) going to the cinema. I see it as a waste of money, as it’s quite pricey in my country. It’s even more of a waste if you don’t like the movie. At home, I could just turn off the movie, but I would feel guilty leaving the cinema after paying for the ticket and snacks! All in all, the cinema has never been my cup of tea (something you like or prefer).

Did you go to the cinema in your childhood?

From time to time! Although we usually waited for the movie to come out on tape (be released after theaters), there were a few instances where my parents treated (invite) my sister and I to the cinema. I remember going to see Star Wars in theaters which was exciting! As a child, it was thrilling to see the movie so up close and personal.

When you go shopping, do you prefer to pay for things in cash or by card?

Well, it depends… when I buy things from shops or stores, I prefer using cash as I can better manage my personal finance. However, I definitely have to use credit card for online shopping such as clothes or airplane tickets

Do you ever save money to buy special things?

Yeah.. I would say I am rather a saver than a spender so saving is definitely my habit. I used to save up 300$ to buy myself a cellphone. It was not a fabulous phone at that time but it meant the world to me.

Would you ever take a job which had low pay?

Actually, my very first job was not exactly well-paid, you can even say under-paid. After college, I started working as an intern in an event company with 500$ per month. Even though it was a very small number, I learned so many new things there so it was worth it.

Would winning a lot of money make a big difference to your life?

I suppose …Yes… I would have more money to buy my favorite clothes and bags. Moreover, I can be financially independentand even can support my parent. It sounds pretty cool to strike it rich, doesn’t it?

Part 2

Describe an interesting discussion you had as part of your work or studies You should say: What the subject of the discussion was Who you discussed the subject with What opinions were expressed And explain why you found the discussion interesting.

Today I would like talk about a discussion which I found very stimulating.

Firstly, it happened when I was in college. My friends and I had to prepare for a very important exam which would come in a week. The bad news is none of us had been a typically good student so we needed a shortcut to absorb all knowledge.

Next, one of us came up with the idea of dividing the lesson and each of us was responsible for one. We would study it all, then shared to others. To be honest, I did not think it was a good idea, at first, but it was like the light at the end of the tunnel so I just followed it.

The meeting turned out to be very useful as we seemed to understand more about the lesson through teaching it to friends. Moreover, we were allowed to express opinions and ask questions relating to the topic which generated even more excitement and deeper thoughts. After the discussion, we were too interested so we even searched more information on the Internet for the questions left unanswered.

The discussion was extremely useful and we all passed the exam with high scores. In fact, my friend had a brilliant idea which we applied ever since.

That’s all I want to share.

Part 3

 Discussing problems with others

Why is it good to discuss problems with other people?

It is good in a sense that you can see the issues from multiple viewpoints from which your solution would probably be better-rounded. Besides that, it is always better to have someone to listen and share your burden with.

Do you think that it’s better to talk to friends and not family about problems?

Oh it definitely depends on what the problem is and who you find the most comfortable to talk with. For example, I may find it easier to discuss relationship issues with my close friend since she always understand and empathize with my feelings. Meanwhile, I would share my future directions with my father as he is more experienced and can give me wise advice.

Is it always a good idea to tell lots of people about a problem?

…. Surely not, no one wants to always look like a troublemaker in front of others. Moreover, if one person just go around all day complaining about how miserable his life is, nobody would want to hang out with him eventually. People always want to be with someone positive and smiling.

Communication skills at work

Which communication skills are most important when taking part in meetings with colleagues?

I would say that’s teamwork. It is said that if you want to go fast, you go alone but if you want to go far, you go with friends. Being a team player has become one of the most essential skill in working environment, especially in meetings. The collaboration between each members will make it easier for them to listen to each other, put aside their egos and reach a consensus.

What are the possible effects of poor written communication skills at work?

Well, in a low level, people might just misunderstand the message so you might not get the work done. In a more serious situation, people may even assume that the writer is not professional which hinders collaboration between team members or departments. Therefore, it is very important to be good at both written and spoken communication.

What do you think will be the future impact of technology on communication in the workplace?

I imagine a world where technology will help to replace all physical stuff like working place even products. Everything can be conducted virtually. Does it sound exciting? People do not have to go to work every day, instead, they can work wherever they want. International meetings can be made online which will reduce dramatically travel fees. More importantly, products can also be produced and delivered by technology.

IELTS Speaking Practice test 1 in 2019 with model Answers

QUESTIONS 

Part 1

Where do you usually watch TV programmes/shows?

What is your favorite TV programmes/shows?

Are there any programmes/shows you don’t like to watch?

Do you think you will watch more TV or fewer TV programmes/shows in the future?

Part 2

Describe someone you know who has started a business. You should say:             Who this person is             What work this person does             Why this person decided to start a business And explain whether you would like to do the same kind of work as this person

Part 3

Choosing work

What kinds of jobs do young people not want to do in your country?

Who is best at advising young people about choosing a job: teachers or parents?

Is money always the most important thing when choosing a job?

Work-life balance

Do you agree that many people nowadays are under pressure to work longer hours and take less holiday?

What is the impact on society of people having a poor work-life balance?

Could you recommend some effective strategies for governments and employers to ensure people have a good work-life balance?

MODEL ANSWERS

Part 1

Where do you usually watch TV programmes/shows?

Well, I am not really a fan of TV because you can basically watch everything on your laptop nowadays. I used to watch TV a lot when I was a kid – you know, all the cartoon channels and stuff. That’s why I am short-sighted now.

What is your favorite TV programmes/shows?

As I mentioned before, I was crazy forcartoon when I was small. You know there were a mixed variety of TV programs for children, among which I found Cartoon network the most appealing due to the lively and humorous characters. It could keep me sitting for hours.

Are there any programmes/shows you don’t like to watch?

Definitely advertisement… I hate to be disturbed by adverts when I was in middle of wonderful movies or TV shows. I understand that it is a way to keep people in suspense but too much advertisement can be annoying sometimes. That’s the reason why I switched to watch on the Internet which has less commercial ads.

Do you think you will watch more TV or fewer TV programmes/shows in the future?

I will watch less for sure. Why do I need to watch TV when I already have the Internet? I can re-watch my favorite sit-com or reality show anytime I want. However, I don’t want to become a couch potato so I d’ better limit my time with any screens.

Vocabulary:

Short-sighted (adj):  unable to see things clearly

To be crazy for: really like something

Appealing (adj): attractive or interesting

Keep s.o in suspense: If you keep or leave someone in suspense , you deliberately delay telling them something

Become a couch potato: a lazy and inactive person

Part 2

Describe someone you know who has started a businessYou should say:             Who this person is             What work this person does             Why this person decided to start a business And explain whether you would like to do the same kind of work as this person

Today I would like to tell you about Mark Zuckerberg who is a famous technology entrepreneur and the founder of Facebook Corporation.

Well, I think everybody knows Mark as one of the statue in start-up world because he set up his own business when he was still a student in Harvard University.

He firstly created a social network with profile information of his friends in the dorm which attracted hundreds of users just in a week. Nobody would think that this hobby could turn into a multi-million dollar business 10 years later, especially when he was still so young at that time.

You know what, I think he was so clever to foresee the potential profit of this application so he co-operated with some friends to raise the company profile.Nowadays, Facebook is widely used by millions of people all over the world which brought an impressive sale figure to the company. However, you must have heard that Mark recently faced a scandal of leaking customer personal information, because of which, he must testify with the authorities. Of course.. no pain no gain ..

Despite of this issue, I still admire him so much for his talent and determination and want to become a successful entrepreneur like him. Start-up has never been a piece of cake, especially in such adverse competition, you have to be very unique to stand out but once you are you can earn a fortune. I love the feeling of being challenged because only am I pushed to my limit, my full potentials will be unlocked. Who know, in the future, I might run my own online education business.

That’s all I want to share.

Vocabulary:

set up own’s own business

Multi-million dollar business 

potential profit 

raise the company profile 

sale figure 

leaking customer personal information 

no pain no gain 

a piece of cake 

adverse competition 

earn a fortune 

to be pushed to one’s limit 

potentials will be unlocked  

Part 3

Choosing work

What kinds of jobs do young people not want to do in your country?

That’s an interesting question, let me think about it… I would say it is labour job.. you know.. stuff like cleaners, builders and waiters. The reasons are probably low salary and intense labour. In fact, many students work part-time as waiter and waitress but it is just temporary job. As soon as they graduate from college, they will compete to get a position in office because white-collar workers are still more preferable than blue-collar workers.

Who is best at advising young people about choosing a job: teachers or parents?

Well I would say it depends. While teachers would have a better knowledge of student’s academic performance, parents will know their kids’ personalities the most. In terms of job market, I suppose they have equal amount of knowledge. Therefore, it is the best for the young to consult with whoever they feel more comfortable with.

Is money always the most important thing when choosing a job?

Not necessarily… you know that all millionaires in the world doesn’t work for money but for passion. It is said that “If you love your job, you won’t have to work a day in your life” and I completely believe in it. For me, I can’t imagine myself get stuck in a nine-to-five job without any job satisfaction.

Work-life balance

Do you agree that many people nowadays are under pressure to work longer hours and take less holiday?

Yes, I think so. We are living in an increasingly competitive world and there is no doubt that the labour market is getting more selective. Students from top universities will have higher chance of being hired, and even after that, they are likely to be exploited by excessive workload and constant pressure. Therefore, maintaining work-life balance is vitally important for workers.

What is the impact on society of people having a poor work-life balance?

That’s truly intriguing.. To be honest, I have never thought about it before. I guess they will be a negative impact on the community because they don’t have enough time to take care of family and friends. As a result, they do not only destroy themselves but also hurt people around them. If there are thousands of workaholics like that, you can imagine what the domino effect will be like. To be honest, I would never do that myself.

Could you recommend some effective strategies for governments and employers to ensure people have a good work-life balance?

Well definitely governments should impose law restricting the number of hours that people can work per day. Although it is necessary to work overtime once in a while, it shouldn’t become daily habit. I suggest that the authorities can even punish business owners if they let their employees work later than 5pm. It may sound too controlling but the sad news is that many people in Japan killed themselves for over-working which shouldn’t have happened if the Japanese government had ways to manage this issue from the beginning.

Vocabulary:

white-collar workers: White-collar workers work in offices rather than doing physical work

blue-collar workers: Blue-collar workers work in industry , doing physical work

nine-to-five job:  a job during regular business hours usually in an office

job satisfaction:  a feeling of fulfillment or enjoyment that a person derives from their job