Free IELTS Speaking practice card: Education

Topic 1: Education

Part 1: Introduction & Interview

Directive for Part 1:

  • Preparation Time: None (Answer immediately)
  • Speaking Time: 4–5 minutes
  • Kind of Answer Expected: Short, straightforward answers with explanations. Responses should be clear, with personal examples and opinions.

Questions:

  • What was your favorite subject in school?
  • Do you prefer studying alone or with others?
  • How has the way you study changed over time?

Sample Answers for Part 1:

  • Band 9 (Expert User):
    “My favorite subject in school was English because I loved reading and writing. It was the one subject that allowed me to express my creativity, especially when analyzing literature.”
    “I prefer studying alone. I find it easier to concentrate when I’m by myself, especially when I have a lot of material to cover.”
    “Over time, my study habits have become more independent. When I was younger, I relied on teachers and classmates for help, but now I use online resources and make detailed notes myself.”
  • Band 7 (Good User):
    “I liked English because I enjoyed reading novels. It was always fun to analyze different stories.”
    “I prefer studying alone because I can concentrate better, but I don’t mind studying with friends when we need to discuss things.”
    “I used to study with friends more, but now I study on my own more often. I think it helps me understand things better.”
  • Band 5 (Modest User):
    “My favorite subject was English because I liked reading stories.”
    “I study by myself because it helps me focus.”
    “I used to study with my friends, but now I study more alone.”

Part 2: Cue Card

Directive for Part 2:

  • Preparation Time: 1 minute
  • Speaking Time: 2 minutes
  • Kind of Answer Expected: The response should be detailed and organized, with personal experiences or stories that explain why the teacher influenced you. Focus on specific details that showcase the teacher’s impact.

Cue Card:
Describe a teacher who influenced you positively.
You should say:

  • Who the teacher was
  • What they taught you
  • How they influenced you
  • And explain why this teacher left a lasting impression on you.

Sample Answers for Part 2:

  • Band 9 (Expert User):
    “The teacher who had a lasting influence on me was my high school English teacher, Ms. James. She taught us literature and writing, but what really stood out was her passion for the subject. She didn’t just teach us to read and analyze books; she encouraged us to think critically and express our opinions clearly. She also gave us the freedom to explore our interests, which inspired me to pursue literature further. What made her special was her ability to connect with each student personally and make every lesson feel relevant to our lives.”
  • Band 7 (Good User):
    “I had a teacher named Ms. James in high school who taught English. She was really passionate about literature, and her classes were always interesting. She helped me develop my writing skills, which was something I had struggled with. She always gave us constructive feedback, which helped me improve. I think she left a lasting impression on me because she made me appreciate books and learning in a way I hadn’t before.”
  • Band 5 (Modest User):
    “My teacher in high school was Ms. James. She taught English. She helped me understand literature better and made me enjoy reading. I think I remember her because she was very kind and always helped me improve my writing.”

Part 3: Discussion Questions

Directive for Part 3:

  • Preparation Time: None (Answer immediately)
  • Speaking Time: 4–5 minutes
  • Kind of Answer Expected: Longer, more developed answers with explanations and examples. Express personal opinions and justify them with reasons.

Questions:

  • How important is a teacher’s role in a student’s life?
  • What qualities make someone a good teacher?
  • Do you think technology will replace teachers in the future?

Sample Answers for Part 3:

  • Band 9 (Expert User):
    “Teachers play an essential role in shaping a student’s attitude toward learning. They not only impart knowledge but also inspire curiosity and self-motivation. A good teacher should be patient, knowledgeable, and approachable, but most importantly, they should be passionate about what they teach. Technology will certainly supplement education in the future, but I don’t believe it will replace teachers entirely. Teachers provide a human connection, emotional support, and guidance, which technology cannot replicate.”
  • Band 7 (Good User):
    “Teachers are very important because they guide students in their studies and help them grow as individuals. A good teacher should be knowledgeable, kind, and able to explain things clearly. While technology can be helpful in education, I don’t think it will ever replace teachers. Teachers offer something technology can’t, like emotional support and personal interaction.”
  • Band 5 (Modest User):
    “Teachers are important because they teach us many things. A good teacher is nice and explains well. I think technology can help with learning, but teachers are still needed to teach students and help with problems.”
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