Topic: Environmental Issues
Part 1: Introduction and Interview Questions
Directive for Part 1:
- Preparation Time: None (Answer immediately)
- Speaking Time: 4–5 minutes
- Kind of Answer Expected: Short, direct answers with personal experiences or opinions.
Questions:
- Do you care about the environment?
- What do you do to protect the environment?
- Do you think it is important for people to recycle?
- Have you ever participated in an environmental campaign or event?
Sample Answers for Part 1:
- Band 9 (Expert User):
“Yes, I do care deeply about the environment. I try to reduce my carbon footprint by using public transportation and recycling regularly. I also avoid using plastic bags as much as possible. I think recycling is essential for reducing waste, and I’ve taken part in several local clean-up events over the years.” - Band 7 (Good User):
“I do care about the environment. I always try to recycle and conserve water. I think it’s important to do small things to help. I’ve also joined some local groups that do environmental campaigns.” - Band 5 (Modest User):
“I care a little about the environment. I try to do small things like recycling sometimes. I don’t do much more but I think recycling is good.”
Explanation for Part 1:
- Band 9: Provides clear, detailed answers with elaboration, expressing a genuine interest in the topic. Answers are relevant and demonstrate a high level of fluency.
- Band 7: Provides relevant answers with some elaboration but lacks depth in some areas. There is good fluency but some hesitation or occasional repetition.
- Band 5: Answers are brief and may lack detail. Some hesitation and self-correction may be present.
Part 2: Long Turn (Individual Speech)
Directive for Part 2:
- Preparation Time: 1 minute
- Speaking Time: 1-2 minutes
- Kind of Answer Expected: Detailed, well-organized speech on the given topic.
Task:
Describe an environmental problem in your country. You should say:
- What the problem is
- Where it occurs
- How it affects people
And explain what can be done to reduce this problem.
Sample Answer for Part 2:
- Band 9 (Expert User):
“One significant environmental issue in my country is air pollution, especially in urban areas like the capital. The problem is mainly caused by emissions from vehicles and factories. It significantly affects people’s health, leading to respiratory diseases like asthma. Additionally, it harms the environment by contributing to climate change. To address this issue, the government could enforce stricter regulations on emissions and promote the use of electric vehicles. Individuals can also help by using public transportation more often.” - Band 7 (Good User):
“Air pollution is a big problem in cities here. It’s mostly caused by cars and factories. People living in cities suffer from breathing problems. To reduce this, the government should encourage people to use fewer cars, and more people could take buses or trains instead.” - Band 5 (Modest User):
“In my country, there is a pollution problem, especially in big cities. The air is bad because of cars. People get sick because of it. I think people should try to drive less to help.”
Explanation for Part 2:
- Band 9: The response is fully developed with clear organization. Ideas are well-supported with examples, and the speaker provides a logical conclusion. The answer is cohesive and easy to follow.
- Band 7: The response is organized with a clear message, though it lacks detailed examples or has minor coherence issues. The speaker provides some development of ideas but not as deeply as a Band 9.
- Band 5: The response may be somewhat disorganized or underdeveloped, lacking clear examples or explanations. The ideas may be too basic or repetitive.
Part 3: Discussion
Directive for Part 3:
- Preparation Time: None
- Speaking Time: 4–5 minutes
- Kind of Answer Expected: Longer, more analytical responses that explain and justify opinions.
Questions:
- Why do you think some people ignore environmental issues?
- What can governments do to raise awareness about environmental problems?
- Do you think technology has helped reduce environmental problems?
- In your opinion, what is the most urgent environmental issue today?
Sample Answers for Part 3:
- Band 9 (Expert User):
“I believe some people ignore environmental issues because they either don’t see the immediate effects, or they’re simply unaware of the long-term consequences. People often prioritize short-term gains, such as convenience, over long-term benefits. Governments can raise awareness by incorporating environmental education in schools and implementing public campaigns. Technology has certainly contributed to solving some issues, like renewable energy sources reducing reliance on fossil fuels. However, the most urgent environmental issue today is climate change, which affects everything from agriculture to natural disasters.” - Band 7 (Good User):
“Some people ignore environmental problems because they don’t realize how serious they are or they think it’s not their responsibility. Governments can make more advertisements and educate people. Technology has helped with things like solar power and electric cars. I think climate change is the biggest issue we face now.” - Band 5 (Modest User):
“Some people don’t care about the environment because they don’t see how it can affect them. Governments can tell people about problems. Technology helps with some things, like energy. Climate change is the biggest problem now.”
Explanation for Part 3:
- Band 9: Responses are insightful, well-structured, and show deep understanding of the topic. The speaker is able to provide relevant examples and justify their opinions. They are able to give a sophisticated opinion on environmental issues.
- Band 7: Responses are relevant and logical, but there might be some limitations in the development of ideas or examples. The speaker demonstrates a good understanding but may lack the depth seen in higher-level answers.
- Band 5: Responses are simple, and while they answer the question, they may lack the necessary depth or explanation. Some grammar mistakes or basic vocabulary may be present.