Practice Questions for IELTS Speaking Part 1

Speaking Part 1

Use the questions below to practice generating ideas and responses for common topics that come up in the IELTS Speaking Part 1 exam. 

Advertisements

• What are some common types of advertisements that you come across in your daily life?
• Have you ever purchased a product or service based on an advertisement you saw?
• How do you feel about the advertisements you see on social media platforms?
• Do you think advertisements influence people's choices when they shop?
• How do advertisements impact society and culture?
• Are there any types of advertisements that you find annoying?
• In your opinion, how have advertisements changed over the years with the rise of digital media?
• Do you believe that advertisements can sometimes be misleading or deceptive?
• Are there any memorable or creative advertisements that you've seen recently?

Apartments

• Can you describe your apartment?
• What do you like most about your apartment?
• What kind of view do you have from your apartment?
• Are there any amenities in your apartment building?
• How is living in an apartment different from living in a house?
• What improvements would you like to make to your apartment?
• How would you describe the neighborhood where your apartment is located?
• Is it common for people in your country to live in apartments?
• What are the advantages of living in an apartment?
• Are there any disadvantages to living in an apartment?
• How do you feel about the size of your apartment?
• Have you ever lived in a different apartment?
• How important is the location of an apartment to you?
• What features would you look for in your ideal apartment?

Art

• Are you interested in art? Why or why not?
• Do you enjoy visiting art galleries or museums?

• What types of art do you like or appreciate the most (e.g., painting, sculpture, photography)?
• Have you ever tried creating art, such as painting or drawing?
• How important is art in your culture or society?
• Do you think art plays a role in education? How?
• Can you name a famous artist or art piece that you admire?
• What emotions or feelings do you experience when you look at a work of art?
• Are there any traditional or indigenous forms of art in your country that are particularly meaningful?
• Have you ever bought or collected artwork?

Books and reading

• What types of books do you like to read (e.g., fiction, non-fiction, novels, biographies)?
• Do you prefer reading physical books, e-books, or listening to audiobooks? Why?
• Can you describe a book that you've read and liked? What was it about?
• How much reading do you do for your work/studies? [Why/Why not?]
• What kinds of books do you read for pleasure? [Why/Why not?]
• Have you ever participated in a book club or a reading group?
• How do you choose the books you read?/What do you look for when choosing a book to read?

Celebrities and Fame

• Would you like to be famous? Why or why not?
• Are you interested in celebrities or famous people? Why or why not?
• Have you ever attended a live performance, concert, or event featuring a famous person?
• What are the advantages and disadvantages of being a celebrity?
• Who is your favorite celebrity, and why do you admire them?
• How do you keep up with news about celebrities or famous individuals?
• Do you think celebrities have a positive or negative influence on society? Why?
• Can you name a celebrity who is known for their charitable work?
• How do you think the lives of famous people differ from those of ordinary individuals?
• Are there any historical figures or celebrities from the past whom you admire?

Chores

• Do you help with chores or household tasks at home? What do you do?
• How do you feel about doing chores? Are there any chores you particularly dislike?
• Can you describe a chore or task you find most challenging or time-consuming?
• Are there any specific household chores that you enjoy doing? Why?
• In your culture, do people typically divide household chores among family members?
• How do you organize and prioritize your chores to manage your time effectively?
• What household chore do you think is the most important for maintaining a clean and organized home?
• How have your attitudes and responsibilities toward chores changed as you've grown up?
• Do you believe that teaching children to do chores is important for their development?
• What tools or equipment do you use to make chores easier and more efficient?

Clothes and fashion

• Do you enjoy shopping for clothes? Why or why not?
• How important is fashion in your life?
• Can you describe your personal style when it comes to clothing?
• What types of clothing do you feel most comfortable in?
• Are there any fashion trends that you particularly like or dislike?
• Do you follow the latest fashion trends, or do you prefer to wear classic and timeless styles?
• How do you decide what to wear for different occasions or events?
• Are there any traditional or cultural clothing items in your country that you like to wear?
• Have you ever bought clothing online? What was your experience like?
• Can you think of a specific occasion when you dressed up for a special event or celebration?
• How do you feel about people who wear eccentric or unconventional clothing styles?
• Are there any clothing items or accessories that have sentimental value to you?
• What factors influence your clothing choices, such as weather, comfort, or personal preferences?
• How have fashion and clothing styles changed over the years in your country?

Computers

• How often do you use computers in your daily life?
• What do you primarily use computers for (e.g., work, studies, entertainment)?
• Do you prefer using desktop computers or laptops? Why?
• Can you describe a situation where you had to troubleshoot a computer problem?
• What software or applications do you use frequently on your computer?
• How have computers and technology influenced the way you communicate with others?
• Are you concerned about issues related to online privacy and security when using computers?
• Have you ever taken a computer-related course or received formal training in using computers?
• Do you think it's important for children to learn how to use computers at a young age?
• Have you experienced any significant changes in your daily life due to advances in technology and computers?

Exercise

• Do you enjoy exercising? Why or why not?
• What types of exercise do you typically engage in?
• How often do you exercise in a week?
• Do you prefer exercising alone or with others? Why?
• What do you think are the most effective exercises for improving fitness?
• How do you motivate yourself to exercise regularly?
• Have you ever participated in any organized sports or fitness classes?
• How do you think technology has influenced the way people exercise?
• Do you think it's important for children to participate in physical education classes at school? Why or why not?
• How do you think the pandemic has affected people's exercise habits?​

Friends

• How do you typically spend time with your friends?
• Are your friends mostly from your hometown or from other places?
• Do you think it's important to have a lot of friends, or is having a few close friends enough?
• Have you made any new friends recently? How did you meet them?
• What qualities do you value most in a friend?
• How do you maintain your friendships, especially if your friends live far away?
• Do you think it's easier to make friends when you're a child, a teenager, or an adult?

Food and cooking

• What types of food are popular in your country?
• What is a traditional dish from your country that you enjoy?
• Do you enjoy cooking? Why or why not?
• How often do you cook at home? What do you usually cook?
• What type of food do you like to cook or prepare at home?
• Are there any traditional dishes or recipes from your culture that you enjoy?
• How often do you eat out at restaurants or cafes?
• Are there any foods or ingredients that you dislike? Why
• Are there any ingredients that you are allergic to? 
• What is your favorite cuisine or type of food (e.g., Italian, Chinese, vegetarian)?
• Are there any dietary restrictions or preferences that you follow in your daily life?
• Have you ever tried cooking a new or exotic dish? How did it turn out?
• What do you think are the benefits of trying foods from different cultures?
• How has globalization affected the availability and variety of foods in your area?
• Do you buy ready-made meals from convenience stores? Why or why not?
• What kind of food do you usually eat when you're in a hurry?
• Do you think people are becoming more health-conscious about their food choices?
• Do you prefer eating at home or going out to eat? Why?
• What is your favorite meal of the day, and why?
• Are there any foreign foods that you'd like to try? Why?

​
Gifts

• When do people give gifts or presents in your country?
• Do you ever take a gift when you visit someone in their home? [Why/Why not?]
• When did you last receive a gift? [What was it?]
• Do you enjoy looking for gifts for people? [Why/Why not?]
• Do you enjoy giving gifts to others? Why or why not?
• What kinds of gifts do you usually give to your friends or family?
• How do you choose the perfect gift for someone?
• Is gift-giving an important tradition in your culture? Why or why not?
• Can you recall a memorable gift you received? What made it special?
• Are handmade gifts more meaningful than store-bought ones? Why or why not?
• What factors do you consider when selecting a gift for someone?
• In your opinion, is it better to give practical gifts or ones that are more sentimental?
• How do you react when you receive a gift that you don't like?
• Are there specific occasions in your culture where gift-giving is expected?
• How do you feel about the tradition of giving money as a gift?

History

• Are you interested in history? Why or why not?
• What did you study in history lessons when you were at school?
• How has history been taught in your education, and did you enjoy history classes?
• How often do you watch TV programmes about history? [Why/Why not?]
• Can you describe a historical period or event that you would like to learn more about?
• Are there any historical sites or museums in your area that you've visited and found interesting?
• Do you have a favorite historical figure or a person from the past whom you admire?
• Can you discuss the importance of preserving and protecting historical landmarks and artifacts?
• Have you ever traveled to a place known for its historical significance?

​Hobbies

• Do you have any hobbies or interests that you enjoy in your free time?
• How often do you engage in your hobbies, and when do you typically do them?
• Can you discuss any hobbies that are common or popular in your culture or region?
• Are there any hobbies you would like to try in the future? 
• Do you think it's important for people to have hobbies or leisure activities? Why?
• Have you ever taken classes or lessons to improve your skills in a particular hobby?
• Are there any hobbies or activities that you used to enjoy but have since stopped doing?
• What benefits do you see in pursuing hobbies and interests outside of work or studies?
• How do your hobbies contribute to your personal well-being and relaxation?

Internet

• How often do you use the internet?
• What do you primarily use the internet for (e.g., work, communication, entertainment)?
• Can you describe a specific website or online service that you use regularly?
• How important is the internet in your daily life?
• How do you think has the internet changed the way people communicate and access information?
• What do you think is the impact of the internet on education and learning?
• How has the internet affected the way people shop and access goods and services?
• Can you share your thoughts on the availability and affordability of internet access in your area?
• Are there any online communities or networks that you actively participate in?

Mobile phones

• Do you own a mobile phone? How often do you use it?
• What do you primarily use your mobile phone for (e.g., communication, work, entertainment)?
• Can you describe the model and features of your mobile phone?
• Are you interested in the latest developments and features in mobile phone technology?
• How important is a mobile phone in your daily life?
• Are you satisfied with the battery life and durability of your mobile phone?
• Have you ever lost or damaged your mobile phone? 
• What types of apps or applications do you frequently use on your mobile phone?
• Are there any concerns about privacy or security when using mobile phones and apps?
• Have you ever had a memorable or significant experience related to your mobile phone?
• What are your thoughts on the use of mobile phones in educational settings or for learning?

Movies

• What types of movies do you like to watch?
• What is the most recent movie you have seen?
• Do you prefer watching movies at home or in the cinema? Why?
• How often do you go to the cinema?
• What is your favorite movie of all time?
• Are there any types of movies you dislike?
• Do you like watching foreign films? Why or why not?
• How do you choose which movies to watch?
• Do you think movies influence people's behavior? How?
• Do you prefer watching movies alone or with friends?
• Have you ever watched a movie more than once? Why?
• What movie genres are popular in your country?
• Is there a movie you’re looking forward to seeing? Why?

News

• Do you regularly follow the news or keep up with current events? Why or why not?
• How do you usually access news and information (e.g., newspapers, TV, websites, apps)?
• Can you describe a recent news story or headline that caught your attention?
• Are there specific topics or types of news that you find more interesting or important?
• How do you feel about the reliability of the news sources you use?
• Do you think it's important for people to stay informed about current events? Why?
• Have you ever discussed a news story with friends or family? What was the topic?
• Are there any news stories that have had a significant impact on your life or your community?
• Are there differences in how different age groups or demographics consume news?

Photography

• Do you enjoy taking photographs? Why or why not?
• What kind of subjects do you like to photograph the most?
• How do you feel when you look at old photographs?
• Do you prefer taking photos with a smartphone or a camera? Why?
• How do you think photography has changed with the rise of social media?
• Do you like sharing photos online on  social media or other websites?
• Have you ever taken a photography class or course?
• Do you prefer to take posed or candid photographs? Why?
• What role do you think photography plays in our daily lives?
• Do you have a favorite photographer or photography style? If so, who or what is it?
• How do you store and organize your photographs?
• What do you think makes a good photograph stand out from others?
• Have you ever had a photograph professionally taken? If so, for what occasion?

Transport

• How do you usually get around in your city or town?
• Can you describe the public transportation options available in your area?
• What do you think are the advantages and disadvantages of public transportation?
• Have you ever experienced any problems with public transportation?
• Are there any transportation challenges or issues in your community, such as traffic congestion or air pollution?
• Have you ever taken a long-distance or international trip? What form of transport did you use?
• What changes or improvements would you like to see in the transportation infrastructure in your area?

Shopping

• Do you enjoy shopping? Why or why not?
• How often do you go shopping for clothes or other items?
• Where do you prefer to shop: in physical stores or online? Why?
• What factors do you consider when choosing a place to shop?
• Are there any items you prefer to buy second-hand or used? Why?
• Do you think shopping habits have changed in recent years? How?
• How do you decide what to buy when you're faced with many options?
• Do you enjoy window shopping, or do you prefer to make purchases quickly?
• Do sales and discounts influence your shopping decisions?
• Are there any traditional markets or street markets in your country that you like to visit?
• What role does advertising play in influencing your shopping choices?
• What do you think are the advantages of online shopping?
• What do you think are the disadvantages of online shopping?

​Sports

• What is your favorite sport to play or watch? Why do you like it?
• Do you enjoy watching sports on television? Why or why not?
• What is the most popular sport in your country? Why do you think it is so popular?
• Have you ever played a team sport? If yes, which one, and what did you like about it?
• Do you think it's important for children to participate in sports? Why or why not?
• Are there any traditional sports in your country? Can you describe them?
• How often do you exercise or engage in physical activity? What do you do?
• How have sports changed in your country over the years?
• Are there any sports that you would like to try in the future? Why?
• What qualities do you think should a good athlete possess?
• Are there any sports or physical activities that are popular among older people in your country?

Studies

• Do you enjoy studying? Why or why not?
• What is your favorite subject to study? Why do you like it?
• Are there any subjects that you find difficult or challenging? Why?
• How do you usually prepare for exams or tests?
• Do you prefer studying alone or in a group? Why?
• What study habits do you find most effective?
• What challenges do you face while studying, and how do you overcome them?
• How do you manage your time between studying and other activities?
• Are there any study techniques or strategies that you find particularly helpful?
• What role do teachers play in your learning experience?
• How has your approach to studying changed over the years?
• How do you stay motivated during challenging or boring subjects?
• How has technology influenced the way you study?

Weather

• ​What is the most common type of weather in your country?
• What is your favorite season, and what activities do you enjoy during that time?
• Does the weather affect your mood? How?
• How often does it rain in your region?
• Are there any extreme weather conditions in your country?
• How do people in your country typically prepare for different seasons?
• Have you ever experienced a natural disaster related to weather? If so, please describe it.
• Are there any precautions people take in your country during extreme weather events?