What is part 2 of the speaking test?
In part 2 of the speaking test you have a minute to plan and between 1 and 2 minutes to speak about a topic. The examiner will give you the topic but you won’t know what it will be until you are in the test. You cannot prepare for the topic that the examiner will ask you about, but you can help yourself by learning how to plan and make notes so you are ready for whatever topic comes.
How to Prepare for Part 2 of the Speaking Test
These are the best ways to improve.
- Make sure you have a wide range of vocabulary so you can talk about any topic. Reading is the best way to acquire new words. When you read a new word, check the meaning and pronunciation in the dictionary. Try and learn at least 10 new words or phrases a week.
- Do timed speaking practice every day. Record yourself speaking about a topic for 2 minutes. When you finish, listen back to the recording. What mistakes do you hear? How could you improve it? Next, record yourself talking about the topic again but try to do it better. You will see an instant improvement in you speaking.
- Find a speaking practice buddy. The two of you can practice together. It is important that you are supportive but also point out mistakes and help each other with vocabulary, grammar and ideas.
- The best way to improve is to do 1 on 1 speaking test practice with an IELTS tutor. This way you will see immediate improvement and get excellent feedback. If you are interested in this, then why not do some speaking practice with Sam and Tom, the IELTS tutors.
Time to Practice
We have three speaking part 2 examples, each with a model band 9 answer.
Speaking Part 2 – Question A
Describe a place that you have been to that you particularly liked.
You should say:
- When you went there
- Why you went there
- What was memorable about this place
And explain why you liked it so much.
6 Steps to Help You Approach the Task
- Read the instructions very carefully and make sure you understand the topic and three points.
- Decide what you will focus your talk on. In the context of this question, the place you like.
- Think what is interesting about your chosen place. It is better that your talk is interesting rather than boring.
- Make sure you mention something about each of the points in the question.
- On your paper make a note of key words connected to each point. Don’t write any sentences – words/phrases only.
- Make a note of any interesting vocabulary you want to use because when you start talking, you may forget it.
When you speak:
- You will be nervous, this is normal, but try to relax as much as possible. Slow breathing exercises can help.
- Look at your notes so that you don’t forget to mention something important.
- If you make any mistakes, that is ok – correct yourself.
- If you forget a word, that is also fine. Try to paraphrase the forgotten word. Explain it using different words. If you can do this sufficiently, then you can show that your vocabulary is good.
- Make your talk interesting. Try and mention things which the examiner will want to know more about. Don’t be afraid to tell the examiner about your emotions or experiences.
- Try and speak for at least a minute and a half. This is an opportunity to show the examiner how good your speaking is. If you have nothing left to say and you are just repeating yourself then tell the examiner that you are finished.
Now, give yourself one minute to prepare some notes about the topic above. Then record yourself talking for two minutes. You can use your phone recorder for this. When you are finished, listen to your speaking and think about the strengths and weaknesses of your speech.
This is Sam’s band 9 answer.
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Speaking Part 2 Question B
Describe someone you know who is very successful.
You should say:
- Who this person is
- How often you see each other
- What this person does
And explain why this person is successful.
Remember to give yourself a minute to prepare some notes about this topic. Afterwards record yourself talking for two minutes. After you finished, listen back and think about how you can improve on your strengths and weaknesses.
Now listen to the IELTS Tutors band 9 example.
Now listen to the IELTS Tutors band 9 example.
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Speaking Test Part 2 Question C
Describe a job you would like to do in the future.
You should say:
- Why you are attracted to this job
- How much training would be necessary
- What kind of personal qualities would it require
And explain why you would like to do this job.
Again, prepare your talk in one minute, and then record your talk for two minutes. Long talks like this will improve your fluency. Listen back and try to identify areas that you can improve. Retry the activity and focus on improving these areas.
Here is our band 9 example.
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