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Speaking Part 1 - Question set 2

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Most commonly asked IELTS Speaking Part 1 Questions with Answers

IELTS Speaking Part 1 - Question Set 1

IELTS Speaking Part 1 - Question Set 2

IELTS Speaking Part 1 - Question Set 3

IELTS Speaking Part 1 - Question Set 4

IELTS Speaking Part 1 - Question Set 5


IELTS Speaking Part 1 - Question Set: 2

Topic - People you study/work with:

Q. Who do you spend most time studying/working with? [Why?]
Answer: I spend most of my time studying/working with my classmates/colleagues. This is because we are often working on group projects, assignments, or collaborative tasks that require collective effort and input. Working with peers allows us to share knowledge, exchange ideas, and support each other in achieving common goals.

Additionally, studying/working with others can create a dynamic and interactive learning environment that fosters teamwork and enhances productivity. If I have to mention the name of a single person whom I study/work with most of the time it would be "Alfred".

Q. What kinds of things do you study/work on with other people? [Why?]
Answer: When studying/working with others, we typically focus on tasks that require joint efforts, brainstorming, and diverse perspectives. This includes collaborative projects, group discussions, presentations, and problem-solving activities. Working together allows us to pool our strengths, combine different skill sets, and tackle complex challenges more effectively. It promotes creativity, facilitates the sharing of knowledge, and encourages critical thinking through lively discussions and diverse viewpoints.

Q. Are there times when you study/work better by yourself? [Why/Why not?]
Answer: Yes, there are times when studying/working alone can be more productive and beneficial. Some tasks require focused concentration, deep analysis, or personal reflection, which can be better accomplished in a quiet and solitary environment. Working alone also provides the flexibility to follow one's own pace, work preferences, and study methods without external distractions. Additionally, individual study or work allows for self-paced learning, independent research, and the development of personal problem-solving skills.

Q. Is it important to like the people you study/work with? [Why/Why not?]
Answer: While it is not mandatory to like everyone we study or work with, having positive relationships and a harmonious working environment can greatly enhance productivity, collaboration, and overall satisfaction. Liking the people we study/work with fosters better communication, teamwork, and mutual support. It creates a comfortable and inclusive atmosphere where ideas can freely flow, feedback can be given constructively, and challenges can be addressed collaboratively.

Topic - Home, Accommodation & Room:

Q. Tell me about the kind of accommodation you live in?
Answer: I live in a large house with my family members. This is a two-storied building with more than 8 rooms. I live on the first floor and this room is comparatively smaller than other rooms. It is a south-facing room with a beautiful garden and lake view. As I am still a student, the room gives the impression that a student lives there.

Q. How long have you lived there?
Answer: I have been living in this house since my childhood and I got my own room when I was around 9 years old. I still live in this room.

Q. What do you like about living there?
Answer: The room is quite comfortable and has got a beautiful view. I can easily reach the rooftop from my room and I like spending time there. The room has got two large windows and allows enough sunlight and air. I have been living in this room for many years and I love this room a lot.

Q. What do you dislike about living there?
Answer: Well, I am quite happy with my room except that it is not large enough. This is the only aspect I dislike about this room. Not that it is that small but I have a personal preference for living in a large room.

Q. What sort of accommodation would you most like to live in?
Answer: I like to live in a large house more than living in a small house or an apartment. The house must have a large garden in front of it and should be situated far away from the main road. Having a fountain in the garden would be a bonus for me. I would also prefer to live in such a house that offers enough sunlight and air. My room must be a large one and well-furnished based on my personal preferences. Finally, the room must have large windows and a proper ventilation system.

Q. Describe the room you live in?
Answer: Well, it is a medium-sized square room which is in the northern part of the house. It is on the first floor and this is the room I have been living in for a long time. It has got two windows and an attached bathroom, and it is painted with light green colour. I have got my bed, sofa set, some paintings, wardrobe, study table, one easy chair, a computer, a TV set, one music player, an AC and a room heater in this room. The view from the room is quite beautiful and that’s the main reason I love to line in this room.

Topic - Giving and Receiving Gifts:

Q. Do you enjoy giving and receiving gifts? [Why/ Why not?]
Answer: I enjoy receiving and giving gifts a lot. Both giving and receiving gifts are associated with happiness, satisfaction and joy. When I receive any gift (regardless of the price and its utility), I feel very happy. Similarly, when I give someone a gift and understand that it also makes them ecstatic, I feel a different type of satisfaction that I do not feel in any other way. Moreover, gift exchange trends and customs strengthen our bonds and express that we care. This is why I love this tradition so much. It's like sharing life with people with care and love.

Q. Who usually gives you gifts?
Answer: Usually, I receive gifts from my family and friends. Most of the gifts, I have received so far, were given to me on my birthday by my parents, grandparents and a few close buddies.

Q. Who do you give gifts to?
Answer: When it is my turn, I give gifts to my family members, my friends, my relatives and my neighbours on different occasions. Moreover, when I go to visit someone, I take some sort of gift for my host.

Q. In your country when do people usually give gifts?
Answer: Christmas and New Year's Eve are the best time for exchanging gifts. Apart from that, weddings, birthdays, graduation days, anniversaries etc. are common occasions when people in my country usually give gifts.

Q. What kinds of gifts do they give?
Answer: People in my country buy a large number of gifts of varied types marking different occasions. The gift range may include a pair of jeans, a cardigan, a nice dress, a box of chocolate, jewellery, cars, electronic items, mobile phones, gift cards and so on.

Topic - Flowers and Plants:

Q. Do you have a favourite flower or plant? [Why/Why not?] 
Answer: Yes, I do have a favourite flower. I am particularly fond of roses. I find their delicate beauty and enchanting fragrance captivating. Roses symbolize love, elegance, and romance, which resonate with me. The vibrant colours and velvety petals make them visually appealing and evoke a sense of joy and admiration.

Q. What kinds of flowers and plants grow near where you live? [Why/Why not?]
Answer: The region where I live is blessed with a diverse range of flowers and plants. We have a mix of native and cultivated species that thrive in our climate. Common flowers include sunflowers, daisies, tulips, lilies, and marigolds. As for plants, we have an abundance of trees like oak, maple, and pine, along with shrubs, ferns, and various types of garden flowers. The favourable climate and availability of suitable soil contribute to the growth of these plants in the area.

Q. Is it important to you to have flowers and plants in your home? [Why/Why not?] 
Answer: Yes, having flowers and plants in my home is important to me. They bring a touch of nature indoors, creating a refreshing and soothing atmosphere. Flowers add beauty and colour to the living space, while plants contribute to a sense of vitality and a connection with nature. They also help purify the air and promote a healthier indoor environment. Moreover, caring for plants can be a therapeutic and rewarding experience, providing a sense of fulfilment and nurturing.

Q. Have you ever bought flowers for someone else? [Why/Why not?]
Answer: Yes, I have bought flowers for someone else on several occasions. Giving flowers is a thoughtful gesture and a way to express appreciation, love, or congratulations. Flowers have a universal appeal and are often seen as a symbol of care and affection. Whether it's for birthdays, anniversaries, or special achievements, presenting someone with flowers is a meaningful way to convey emotions and brighten their day.

Topic - Family:

Q. Do you have a large family or a small family?
Answer: I have got a small family, and it has only five members including my dad, mom, younger sister, younger brother and me. I am the eldest son of the family.

Q. Tell me something about your family.
Answer: Well, as I've said we have got five family members in our family including me. My father is a doctor and my inspiration in life. My mother is a school teacher and a loving and caring person whom I love the most. My younger sister is in grade 7, and she has got all crazy and creative ideas. She shares most of her secrets with me. My younger brother is studying mathematics at a university and he has got a passion for playing football. He dreams to become a professional football player someday though I have my doubts about it! I have recently completed my Bachelor's degree in Computer Science and I have plans to finish my Master's degree from a reputed foreign university. We are a happy family and share a strong bonding that makes us care and love each other a lot.

Q. How much time do you manage to spend with members of your family?
Answer: I usually try to spend most of my time with my family. But I cannot manage my time when I am out at my university. But after I return home, I spend my time with my family. 

Q. In what way is your family important to you?
Answer: Well, my family is the centre of my universe. My parents did everything humanly possible to raise me up and ensure my education and well-being. Their sacrifices and contributions to my life are unparalleled. I will always be grateful to be a member of such a happy and caring family. My family members know me better than any other person and they will always be with me no matter what. They are the people who had always been with me and supported me in every way possible. I believe that family comes first and that’s why my family is the most important aspect of my life.


Topic - Shopping Online:

Q. How often do you buy things online? [Why?]
Answer: I buy things online quite regularly, at least a few times a month. Online shopping is incredibly convenient and offers a wide range of products and options that might not be available in local stores. I often turn to online shopping when I'm looking for specific items, comparing prices, or seeking unique products.

Q. What was the last thing you bought online?
Answer: The last thing I bought online was a set of noise-cancelling headphones. I needed them for work, and after reading reviews and comparing different models, I found a great deal online. It was a seamless process, and the headphones were delivered to my doorstep within a couple of days.

Q. Do you ever see things in shops and then buy them online? [Why/Why not?]
Answer: Yes, I've occasionally seen items in physical stores and later purchased them online. This typically happens when I come across a product in a store, and I want to research it further or find a better deal online. Online shopping provides the convenience of reading reviews, comparing prices, and often getting the product at a more competitive price.

Q. Do you think the popularity of online shopping is changing your town or city centre? [Why/Why not?]
Answer: Yes, I believe the popularity of online shopping has had a significant impact on local town and city centers. Many traditional brick-and-mortar stores have faced challenges as consumers increasingly turn to online shopping for convenience and a wider selection. This shift has led to some retail businesses closing down or adapting by expanding their online presence. So, it has certainly changed the dynamics of how people shop and the vitality of local shopping areas.

Topic - Friends:

Q. Are your friends mostly your age or different age? [Why?]
Answer: Most of my friends are my age, and I have a few friends who are seniors to me. The reason I have friends of my age is that they were mostly my classmates initially and then became my good friends. Most of my friends are from my high school and college, and that naturally makes them to be my age.

Q. Do you prefer one or two close friends or many friends?
Answer: When I was in my early teens, I preferred many friends but nowadays I have few friends but they are very close to me. So I would say, I prefer having few close friends to having too many ordinary friends.

Q. Do you usually see your friends during weekdays or on weekends? Why?
Answer: I usually see my friends at weekends. Weekdays are busy days and after I get back home in the evening, I prefer to stay at home with my family members.

Q. Do you prefer to stay alone or with your friends?
Answer: I usually prefer to be with my friends. However there are times when I need my personal time and in this case, I prefer solitude rather than company.

Q. The last time you saw your friends, what did you do together?
Answer: Well, we played badminton together and had our dinner at a nearby restaurant. That’s the last thing I can recall doing with my friends and that would be about a week ago.

Q. In what ways are your friends important to you?
Answer: I share many common interests with my friends and that makes us have pleasant activities and conversations together. They are quite helpful and supportive to me. I can share almost anything with them and that makes them special to me. Having good friends is like being blessed and that’s why they are very important to me.

Topic - Neighbours:

Q. How well do you know the people who live next door to you?
Answer: I would say I know most of my neighbours. We live in a suburban area where people spend their time with their friends and neighbours, and I know quite well the people who live next door.

Q. How often do you see them? Why?
Answer: I see them very often, almost twice a week. They often come to visit us and play indoor games. They also invite us to visit them, and we often have parties and different celebrations together.

Q. What kinds of problems do people sometimes have with their neighbours?
Answer: While good neighbours can make our life easier and happy, a bad neighbour can cause lots of trouble. The usual issues that someone might face from a neighbour include loud noise, quarrels, complaints, disturbance from loud music and issues with children, gardening and garbage.

Q. How do you think neighbours can help each other?
Answer: In many ways, neighbours are most important to us. They live near us, and thus they are even more important than our relatives in many cases. They can have good conversations with us, help us in any danger and support us mentally and financially. For example, if someone gets ill and needs to be taken to a hospital, a good neighbour would be there. Neighbours also have parties and celebrations together and can make us happy. We often share our distress and problems with them, and they advise us and help us to a great extent. Finally, neighbours become good friends and would share their sufferings and joys like family members.

Topic- Communicating with people:

Q. How do you usually contact your friends? [Why?]
Answer: Well, I usually call my friends on their cell phones or visit them personally to keep in touch with them. Social media like Facebook and Twitter has also changed the way I communicate with my friends. There are many friends who stay far away, and social media is the only way to communicate with them for me.

Q. Do you prefer to contact different people in different ways? [Why?]
Answer: Yes, as a general rule of thumb, people have their own preferences on how they would like to be contacted or communicated. For instance, my office colleagues prefer to be emailed while my friends’ preference is a cell phone. My parents also prefer cell phone communication while my younger cousins love to do that via Facebook. I usually try to contact people based on their preferences for communication. To contact someone new, I prefer email or text messages.

Q. Do you find it easy to keep in contact with friends and family? [Why?/ Why not?]
Answer: I try to maintain a balance between my professional and personal life. I often meet my friends or call them to get their updates and try to spend my days off with my family. This is not easy as I often struggle to maintain that due to work pressure and personal preferences of reading books or updating my blog. Sometimes a family member complains that I spend too much time with my friends while friends have similar complaints as well. Thus I would say it’s really tough to keep a perfect balance. However, I try my best always.

Q. In your country, did people in the past keep in contact in the same ways as they do today? [Why/ Why not?]
Answer: Not really. Postal mail, telephone and personal visit were the three most common ways of contacting and communicating with people in the past. With the invention of computers and the internet, the scenario has completely changed. The easy access and lower call rate of mobile phones have also contributed to frequent and instant communication among my countrymen.

Topic- Fast Food:

Q. What kinds of fast food have you tried? [Why/Why not?]
Answer: I have tried a variety of fast food options. Some of the common ones include hamburgers, pizza, fried chicken, tacos, and sandwiches. I have tried them because they are easily accessible, quick to prepare, and often marketed as convenient meals for people on the go. While I do enjoy the occasional indulgence, I also make an effort to maintain a balanced diet by incorporating healthier food choices.

Q. Do you ever use a microwave to cook food quickly? [Why/Why not?] 
Answer: Yes, I do use a microwave to cook food quickly, especially when I'm in a rush or need to warm up leftovers. Microwaves offer a convenient way to heat food in a matter of minutes, which can be helpful when time is limited. However, I also prefer to cook fresh meals using traditional cooking methods whenever possible, as it allows for better control over the ingredients and flavours.

Q. How popular are fast food restaurants where you live? [Why/Why not?] 
Answer: Fast food restaurants are quite popular in the area where I live. They have become an integral part of the modern food culture, offering quick and easily accessible meals for people with busy lifestyles. The convenience, affordability, and wide variety of options available at fast-food restaurants have contributed to their popularity. However, there is also a growing awareness of the importance of healthy eating, leading to a more balanced approach when it comes to dining choices.

Q. When would you go to a fast-food restaurant? [Why/Why not?] 
Answer: I would go to a fast-food restaurant when I'm looking for a quick meal or when I'm craving a specific item that is commonly found in fast-food establishments. It can be convenient to grab a fast food meal during busy days when I'm travelling, or when I want to enjoy a casual and hassle-free dining experience. However, I also prioritize the overall nutritional value of my meals, so I make sure to balance fast food consumption with healthier options as well.

Topic- Telephones:

Q. How often do you make telephone calls? [Why? /Why not?]
Answer: Well, I own a cell phone and I usually call my parents every day whenever I am outside. I also need to call my offshore colleagues for job-related issues. Apart from that, I often call my relatives and cousins who stay far away from our hometown.

Q. Who do you spend the most time talking to on the telephone? [Why?]
Answer: Well, my mother is the person I talk to on the phone most of the time. This is mostly because she gets anxious whenever I take a longer time to call her. I am very close to her and I love the way she cares for me. Because of that, I love to talk to her. She is a good listener and a great mentor and that’s why I call her for different pieces of advice as well.

Q. When do you think you will next make a telephone call? [Why?]
Answer: Umm, after I leave this exam hall, I will call my mother. She must be waiting eagerly to know how I performed in my speaking test. So she would be the person I will call in 20 minutes or so on her cell phone.

Q. Do you sometimes prefer to send a text message instead of telephoning? [Why?/Why not?]
Answer: Definitely, there are times when text messages offer a better way of communication than telephone calls. For instance, if I think that someone might be in his office or in an important meeting, I would send him a text message instead of calling on his cell phone. To congratulate someone or to wish him a birthday, I would prefer text messages to phone calls. Finally, when I need to reach a friend or a relative at night, I send them a text message instead of taking the risk to call them and wake them up.

Text messages are concise and convey the exact information. They could be read over and over again and hence addresses and contact information are more secure to be sent in text formats. Calling might interrupt someone while SMS perhaps would not.

Topic- Bicycle:

Q. How popular are bicycles in your hometown? [Why?]
Answer: It is quite popular in my hometown. You only need to visit our hometown for a while or obverse the office or schools to find out how popular they really are.

People in my hometown prefer bicycle mostly because it is environment-friendly, less expensive, easy to garage, and good for their health.

Q. How often do you ride a bicycle? [Why? / Why not?]
Answer: I used to ride a bicycle quite often in the past but these days I can’t do that. I use my office bus to reach my office and to get back home. My family owns a car and I often use it. I do not feel that much passionate about riding a bicycle as I used to do in my teenage.

Q. Do you think those bicycles are suitable for all ages? [Why? / Why not?]
Answer: Bicycles, common in our hometown, are suitable for most people no matter how old they are. I think this transportation should be promoted and widely used for health and environmental benefits.

Q. What are the advantages of a bicycle compared to a car? [Why?]
Answer: Bicycles are eco-friendly and require less hassle to maintain and park in the garage or parking area. Global warming is a threat to our very existence and thus reliance on bicycles could be a great solution to address this pressing problem. Apart from that, people from all economic classes can afford it and can contribute to solving the traffic problem on the roads.

Topic- Sleep:

Q. How many hours do you usually sleep at night?
Answer: I aim to get around 7 to 8 hours of sleep per night. Having a consistent sleep routine helps me feel more refreshed and focused during the day.

Q. How many hours do you usually sleep at night?
Answer: Occasionally, I might take a short nap during the day, especially if I had a poor night's sleep or if I'm feeling particularly tired. However, it's not a regular habit as I prefer to maintain a proper sleep schedule.

Q. What do you do if you can't get to sleep at night? [Why?]
Answer: If I have trouble falling asleep, I usually try to relax by reading a book or practicing some light meditation. I avoid looking at electronic devices such as my phone or computer as the blue light can interfere with sleep. Creating a calming bedtime routine helps signal to my body that it's time to wind down.

Q. Do you ever remember the dreams you've had while you were asleep?
Answer: Yes, I often remember my dreams. Some are vivid and memorable, while others quickly fade from memory. I find dreams intriguing, and I sometimes jot down interesting ones in a dream journal.

Topic- Summer:

Q. Is summer your favourite time of year? [Why/Why not?]
Answer: Yes, summer is indeed my favourite time of the year. I love the warm weather, longer days, and the vibrant energy that comes with the season. It's a time when nature flourishes, and there are ample opportunities for outdoor activities, such as swimming, picnics, and hiking.

Q. What do you do in summer when the weather's very hot? [Why?]
Answer: When the weather gets very hot in summer, I usually seek ways to stay cool and comfortable. I often go swimming in pools, and lakes, or visit nearby beaches to take a refreshing dip and cool off. Additionally, I enjoy spending time indoors in air-conditioned places like libraries, cafes, or cinemas. Engaging in indoor activities such as reading, watching movies, or pursuing hobbies provides respite from the heat while still enjoying the summer break.

Q. Do you go on holiday every summer? [Why/Why not?]
Answer: While I would love to go on holiday every summer, it is not always possible due to various factors such as work commitments, financial considerations, or personal circumstances. However, I do try to make the most of the summer break by planning short getaways or taking time off to relax and explore nearby attractions. Going on a vacation during summer allows me to unwind, discover new places, and create lasting memories with loved ones.

Q. Did you enjoy the summer holidays when you were at school? [Why/Why not?]
Answer: Absolutely, I thoroughly enjoyed the summer holidays when I was at school. It was a period of freedom and adventure. The break from academic responsibilities provided an opportunity to explore new hobbies, spend quality time with family and friends, and embark on exciting trips. I cherished the sense of liberation, the absence of daily routines, and the chance to recharge before the next academic year. The anticipation and joy associated with the summer holidays made it a time I eagerly looked forward to each year.

Topic- Science:

Q. Did you like studying science when you were at school? [Why/Why not?]
Answer: Yes, I enjoyed studying science when I was in school. I found it fascinating to learn about the natural world, conduct experiments, and understand the fundamental principles that govern the universe. Science classes were always engaging, and they sparked my curiosity.

Q. What do you remember about your science teachers at school?
Answer: I have fond memories of my science teachers from school. They were knowledgeable, passionate about their subject, and had a unique way of making complex scientific concepts understandable. They encouraged us to ask questions, explore, and think critically, which I believe was essential for nurturing an interest in science. Among them, I specifically remember Mr Albert who was one of the greatest science teachers ever in the whole country and we were lucky to have him in our high school.

Q. How interested are you in science now? [Why/Why not?]
Answer: I'm still very interested in science. While I may not be studying it formally as I did in school, I continue to follow scientific developments, read about new discoveries, and watch documentaries about various scientific topics. Science plays a crucial role in our understanding of the world, and I find it essential to stay informed and curious about the latest advancements.

Q. What do you think has been an important recent scientific development? [Why?]
Answer: One of the most significant recent scientific developments is the advancement of mRNA vaccine technology, as seen in the COVID-19 vaccines. This technology allowed for the rapid development and deployment of highly effective vaccines during the pandemic. It's a game-changer in the field of medicine and has the potential to revolutionize how we develop vaccines for various diseases. This development has saved countless lives and is a testament to the power of science in addressing global challenges.

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