IELTS Exam Speaking & Writing: What to Expect + Sample Questions (Teacher Guide)
- Catherine
- Nov 20
- 11 min read
Are you planning on taking the IELTS test and need a little help knowing what to expect?
In this article you will find helpful tips, summaries of each area of the exam and practice questions.
I am a Business English teacher and have helped many students to prepare for the IELTS exam so I am sure you will find this helpful!
I also highly recommend IELTSwithLiz as Teacher Liz goes into a lot more detail, and has many examples and practice questions for you to try.
The IELTS exam: An Overview
The IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is a globally recognised exam used for:
university admission
immigration and visas
professional registration
job applications
It tests your ability to use English in real-life situations and there are two versions of the test:
1. IELTS Academic
For university, professional jobs, or specialised training.
2. IELTS General Training
For immigration, work, or everyday English use.
Both versions test the same four skills, but Reading and Writing have slightly different tasks, if you have not specifically been told you need to do the Academic version of the IELTS exam you are most likely going to be doing the General Training.
If you are unsure which exam you need to do, check the IELTS website for your area and what they recommend.
What to expect on the day;
1. Arrival & Check-In
Arrive at least 30 minutes early. You’ll need:
Your ID or passport (must match your application)
Confirmation email (sometimes)
Staff will:
Check your ID
Take your photo
Scan your fingerprint or signature (security)
You’ll store your bag, phone, and personal items in a locker.
2. Entering the Exam Room
An invigilator guides you to your seat. Your desk will have:
Pencils
Eraser
Answer sheet (paper test only)
Headphones (for Listening, in many centres)
You must sit quietly — no talking allowed.
3. Before the Test Starts
The examiner explains:
The rules
Timing
When you can ask questions
When you may not speak
They will test the audio before the Listening exercise.
The test consists of 4 parts;
Listening 30 minutes
Writing 60 minutes
Reading 60 minutes
Speaking 11-14 minutes
IELTS Listening - What to Expect
The Listening test is 30 minutes. It has 4 sections that get more difficult as the questions progress.
You will listen to 4 recordings the first two will be more social situations, and the second two more formal conversations or education related situations.
As the recording plays you will see questions related to the recording, these can be multiple-choice, fill-in-the-blank, or matching statement type questions.
All the answers will be in the recording somewhere, you just have to listen for it.
What examiners look for:
There’s no examiner — it’s all based on correct answers!
You only hear the recording once, so focus is essential.
Quick tip:
Read the questions before the recording starts - this way you know what information to listen for and this makes it a bit easier to single that information out.
For listening test recording examples visit IELTS Liz Listening.
IELTS Writing - What to Expect
IELTS Writing has 2 tasks and lasts 60 minutes.
Task 1 (Academic)
Describe charts, graphs, maps, or processes (150 words).
Focus: summarise the main trends, compare data, and present information clearly.
This task does not require your opinion or ideas, simply explain what you see in the graph, charts, image in a clear way that uses the English language correctly.
Task 1 (General Training)
Write a formal or informal letter (150 words).
Focus: clear purpose, appropriate tone, and organised paragraphs.
Follow the instructions and make sure your writing is clear - Is the structure clear or is it confusing for the reader to follow?
For Task 1 in both the Academic and General Training, you will be given clear instructions on how to answer the question and what the topic is.
For Task 2, you need to use your creativity and knowledge to create the answer so this requires a lot more practice. Working with a teacher to prepare for this section will be very beneficial before you take the test. Book a lesson here.
Task 2 (Both Academic & GT)
Write an essay (250 words). You give your opinion, discuss problems, propose solutions, or analyse a topic.
You will be marked on a variety of different areas, your opinion on the topic does not matter, you can support or disagree just as long as your written English is clear and easy to follow.
You must show an understanding of advanced vocabulary and complex sentences, however you will be marked on what you write, not what you don't know. So my top tip is to not try to use advanced vocabulary unless you are 100% sure you are using it correctly.
Focus: structure, clarity, arguments, examples, and good vocabulary.
IELTS Writing Task 2: Example Questions
Some people believe that employers should focus more on personal qualities when hiring new staff, rather than on qualifications or experience. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Some people think that children should start school at a very young age, while others believe they should begin later to develop more social and emotional skills first. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Many cities around the world are facing severe traffic congestion. What are the main causes of this problem, and what solutions can be implemented to solve it?
Online learning has become increasingly popular in recent years. What are the advantages and disadvantages of studying online compared to traditional classroom learning?
In many countries, people are living longer than ever before. Why is this happening? What impact does this have on individuals and society?
Some people argue that governments should invest more in public transportation rather than building new roads. Do you agree or disagree?
Many parents prefer to educate their children at home instead of sending them to school. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of this approach and give your own opinion.
A growing number of young people are becoming addicted to social media. What problems does this cause, and what measures can be taken to address it?
Some people believe that working from home is more beneficial for employees, while others think it reduces productivity. What are the advantages and disadvantages of working from home?
International travel has become more affordable, and many people are choosing to travel abroad for their holidays. What are the reasons for this trend? Is it a positive or negative development?
What examiners look for:
Task achievement (did you answer the question?)
Organisation (paragraphs, linking words)
Vocabulary range
Grammar accuracy
Quick tip:
Always plan for 3–5 minutes before writing. Your score depends heavily on structure, so write some bullet points before you start about what you want to include and make sure you stick to this.
I also advise all my students to choose either British English or American English. If you mix the spellings it will be considered a mistake, however if you always use the American spelling this will be marked correctly, and if you always use the British spelling it will be marked correctly.
For more writing example questions, and example answers check out IELTS with Liz Writing. Task 1 and Task 2.
IELTS Reading - What to Expect
The Reading test lasts 60 minutes and has 40 questions.
Academic Reading:
3 long, detailed texts from books, journals, or newspapers.
Topics include science, society, environment, psychology, etc.
General Training Reading:
Shorter texts such as workplace notices, advertisements, instructions, and one longer article at the end.
Question types include:
True/False/Not Given
Matching headings
Multiple choice
Fill-in-the-gaps
Summary completion
Choosing paragraph information
You will need to choose the right answers based on the information given in the texts.
Quick tip:
Practice your reading skills, not just vocabulary: skimming, is when we quickly summarise the text in our minds to understand the whole text and scanning, finding specific details fast.
You can practice these skills with a teacher, book a lesson here.
I also recommend underlining key information in the text as you read, so you can quickly find it as you answer the questions.
For reading practice questions and example answers visit IELTS with Liz reading.
IELTS Speaking - What to Expect
The Speaking test is a face-to-face conversation with an examiner.
It lasts 11–14 minutes and has three parts:
Part 1: Introduction & Basic Questions (4–5 mins)
You answer simple questions about your life — hobbies, work, studies, hometown.
Goal: show natural, comfortable conversation, informal language is normal here.
Part 2: Prepared Topic (1–2 mins speaking)
You get a task card with a topic and have 1 minute to prepare, then speak alone for up to 2 minutes about the topic on your card.
Goal: speak clearly, stay on topic, organise ideas.
Topic Examples;
Describe a person who inspires you
Describe a memorable trip or holiday
Describe a book you recently read
Describe a skill you would like to learn
Describe a place in your hometown you enjoy visiting
Describe a difficult challenge you faced
Describe a piece of technology you use every day
Describe a gift you received that was meaningful
Describe a time you helped someone
Describe an important tradition in your culture
Describe a movie or TV show you enjoyed
Describe a special meal you had
Describe a time you made a mistake and learned something
Describe a sport or activity you enjoy
Describe a person you would like to meet
Describe something you do to relax
Describe a building or landmark you find interesting
Describe a time you were proud of yourself
Describe an event you attended (concert, festival, ceremony)
Describe something you want to improve about yourself
Part 3: Discussion (4–5 mins)
More challenging questions connected to Part 2. Usually the examiner will stick with the topic you were given in Task 2, but they will be more in depth questions and expect a more detail, educated answer.
Goal: show deeper thinking, give opinions, and support your ideas.
Topics you could face;
What examiners look for:
Fluency (speaking smoothly and naturally)
Vocabulary range
Clear pronunciation
Ability to explain ideas in detail
Quick tip:
Practice thinking in English and expanding answers with examples, you can record yourself, practice in online IELTS help groups or find a tutor to help you to prepare for this section.
Speaking Part 3 Topics and Discussion Questions
Education & Learning
How has the education system changed in your country in recent years?
Do you think traditional classrooms will disappear in the future?
Should universities focus more on academic subjects or practical skills?
How important is it for adults to continue learning throughout their lives?
What are the advantages and disadvantages of online learning?
Do you think teachers should be paid more? Why or why not?
How can governments reduce educational inequality?
Should students be allowed to choose all their own subjects?
What role does technology play in modern education?
Do exams accurately measure a student’s ability?
Technology & Society
How has technology changed the way people communicate?
Do you think society is becoming too dependent on technology?
Should children be allowed unlimited access to digital devices?
What are the dangers of artificial intelligence?
How has social media changed human relationships?
Should governments regulate big tech companies more strictly?
Can technology replace human workers entirely?
What impact has technology had on privacy?
Is technology making people smarter or lazier?
How could technology improve public services?
Work, Careers & Employment
How has remote work changed the modern workplace?
What skills do people need to succeed in today’s job market?
Should companies offer more flexible working hours?
How important is job satisfaction compared to salary?
Do you think job security is becoming harder to achieve?
Should unpaid internships be allowed?
How will automation affect future careers?
What are the advantages of working for a small company compared to a large one?
How can governments support unemployed people?
Should employees be allowed to work after retirement age?
Family & Relationships
How have family structures changed in your country?
Should parents be stricter or more relaxed with their children?
Do you think people spend enough time with their families nowadays?
What are the advantages of living in a large family?
How important is it for elderly parents to live with their children?
How has social media affected relationships?
Should schools teach relationship skills?
What challenges do modern families face?
How can people maintain long-distance relationships?
Do you think marriage is still important in today’s society?
Environment & Climate Change
What are the biggest environmental problems facing your country?
Should individuals or governments take more responsibility for protecting the environment?
Do you think climate change can be reversed?
How can public transport reduce environmental damage?
Should companies be punished for polluting the environment?
Are people becoming more environmentally conscious?
How effective are recycling programs in your country?
Should environmental education be compulsory in schools?
What role can technology play in protecting the environment?
Do you think environmental issues will be worse in the future?
Globalisation & Cultural Change
How has globalisation affected local cultures?
Do you think globalisation is more positive or negative?
Why do people want to experience foreign cultures?
Should countries protect their traditional customs more strongly?
How has globalisation changed eating habits?
Is it possible for a country to avoid global influence?
What are the benefits of a multicultural society?
Do you think global languages like English threaten local ones?
How has international travel changed people’s perspectives?
Should governments promote national culture abroad?
Media, Advertising & Social Influence
How does advertising influence consumer behaviour?
Should governments regulate advertising aimed at children?
How trustworthy is the news media today?
What impact do influencers have on society?
Are advertisements becoming too intrusive?
How has online news changed the way people get information?
Should celebrities be considered role models?
What are the dangers of fake news?
Why do companies spend so much money on advertising?
Should political advertising be banned?
Health, Well-being & Lifestyle
Why do you think people are becoming more health-conscious?
Should governments be responsible for promoting healthy lifestyles?
How has modern life contributed to stress?
Should unhealthy foods be taxed?
How can people maintain work-life balance?
Do you think mental health is still a taboo topic?
Should schools teach students about nutrition?
How has technology affected people’s health?
Why do some people struggle to exercise regularly?
How can communities improve public health?
Government, Law & Social Responsibility
How important is it for governments to listen to the opinions of citizens?
Should governments spend more on public services or national defence?
What makes a law fair or unfair?
Should people be punished more severely for breaking the law?
How can governments reduce crime rates?
Should voting be compulsory?
What responsibilities do citizens have towards society?
Should governments support the arts financially?
How can corruption be reduced?
What qualities should a good leader have?
Art, Culture & Creativity
Why is art important in society?
Should schools focus more on creative subjects?
Do you think modern art is as valuable as traditional art?
How does culture influence creativity?
Should museums be free to the public?
How has technology changed art?
Why do some people think art is not useful?
Should governments invest in cultural preservation?
How can art bring communities together?
Is creativity something people are born with or can learn?
Urbanisation & City Life
What are the advantages and disadvantages of living in a big city?
Should governments limit the size of cities?
How can public transport be improved?
Why are housing prices rising sharply in many cities?
Is it better for children to grow up in cities or rural areas?
How does urbanisation affect the environment?
Should more green spaces be built in cities?
How has city life changed in the last 20 years?
What problems do large cities face?
How can cities become more liveable?
Economy, Wealth & Inequality
Why is the gap between rich and poor increasing?
Should governments raise the minimum wage?
How important is money for happiness?
Should wealthy people pay higher taxes?
How do economic recessions affect ordinary people?
What are the advantages of a free-market economy?
Should governments regulate prices for basic goods?
How does consumerism shape society today?
Why do some countries remain poor while others become rich?
Is economic growth always a good thing?
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