⚛️What to Expect in IELTS Speaking Part 1        

Part 1 of the IELTS Speaking Test, often referred to as the introduction and interview section, is designed to assess your ability to talk about familiar topics. It lasts about 4-5 minutes and involves the examiner asking questions about everyday topics. This section is designed to put you at ease and allow you to demonstrate your ability to speak fluently and naturally. The questions are straightforward and usually revolve around your personal experiences and preferences.

Let’s explore some of the most common topics and sample questions to help you prepare effectively.

⚛️ Common IELTS Speaking Part 1 Topics

1. Hometown

   • Where is your hometown?

   • What do you like about your hometown?

   • Are there any changes you would like to see in your hometown?

2. Work and Study

   • Do you work or study?

   • What do you enjoy about your work or studies?

   • Is there anything you would like to change about your job or course?

3. Family

   • Can you tell me about your family?

   • How much time do you spend with your family?

   • Do you think family relationships are important?

4. Hobbies and Free Time

   • What do you usually do in your free time?

   • Are there any hobbies you would like to take up in the future?

   • How do you usually spend your weekends?

5. Travel and Holidays

   • Do you enjoy travelling?

   • What is your favourite holiday destination?

   • Are there any places you would like to visit in the future?

6. Food and Cooking

   • What kind of food do you like?

   • Can you cook? Why or why not?

   • What is a popular dish in your country?

7. Weather and Seasons

   • What is the weather like in your country?

   • Which season do you like the most? Why?

   • Does the weather affect your mood?

8. Daily Routine

   • What is your typical day like?

   • Do you think it’s important to have a daily routine?

   • Is there anything you would like to change about your daily routine?

⚛️ Tips for Answering IELTS Speaking Part 1 Questions 

• • Keep it Simple While it’s good to use a range of vocabulary and grammar, don’t overcomplicate your answers. Aim for clear and natural communication.

  • Expand Your Answers Avoid giving one-word answers. For example, if asked, “Do you like your job?”, instead of saying “Yes,” you could say, “Yes, I do. I enjoy the challenges it offers and the opportunity to work with a diverse team.”

  • Practice Common Topics Familiarising yourself with the typical topics and practising answering related questions will boost your confidence.

  • No Experience?  No problem! If you don’t have a particular experience, explain why.  It still helps the examiner assess your English level!  To that end, it's not a truth exam either, so you can make up some small details if you prefer.  As long as you can express your ideas in clear, logical English, that's all that matters!

Tip: Try to speak English out loud for just a few minutes every day, even if it's only to yourself!  Focusing on getting just 1% better each day can lead to great success and it's what we practise here at Atomic IELTS!

⚛️ Would You Like to Join Our Next Preparation Course?

If you’re ready to achieve your dream IELTS score, Atomic IELTS is here to guide you every step of the way. Our next preparation course is enrolling now, and spots are filling fast! Don’t miss this opportunity to work with Rebecca and Sandra - your expert instructors who are passionate about helping people just like you to power your future!