Simone Braverman's Blog: IELTS-Blog.com, page 55
July 26, 2023
IELTS Speaking test in Pakistan – July 2023
MT has taken her IELTS Speaking test in Pakistan a couple of days ago. She was asked the following questions:
Speaking test
Part 1 (Interview)
– What is your full name?
– Where are you from?
– Do you work or study?
– What do you study?
– Do you enjoy your courses?
– Do you carry a bag to university?
– What did you carry in your bag when you went to primary school?
– What do you carry in your bag now?
– What type of bag do you take with you when you go on holidays?
Part 2 (Cue Card)
Talk about an expensive gift you would like to give to someone. You should say
– what the gift would be
– who you would give it to
– when you would do it
and explain why you would like to give that person an expensive gift.
Part 3 (Discussion)
– What is the value of money to you?
– Where do people learn the value of money, at home or in school?
– Do you think children should be taught how to manage money?
– Is it important to for people to learn to save money?
– How much of its budget should a country spend on education and health?
– Should a country spend money on arts?
– What is the effect of arts on the young people of your country?
July 25, 2023
IELTS test in the UAE – July 2023 (General Training)
AM took the IELTS test in the UAE a few days ago. Thanks to his kind contribution we are sharing the writing and speaking questions he remembered:
Writing test
Writing task 1 (a letter)
While on a business trip in another city, you met an old friend who lives there. You are going on another business trip to this city soon and you would like to see him/her again. Write a letter to your friend. In your letter
– Tell him/her about your trip
– Say why you were happy to see him/her
– Suggest an arrangement for you to meet
Writing task 2 (an essay)
Some people say that schools should invest in the best equipment for students, while others say that funds should be used towards hiring great teachers. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your knowledge or experience.
Speaking test
Part 1 (Interview)
– What is your full name?
– Where do you work?
– Do you like your work, and why?
– What would you like to change or to add in your workplace?
– Do you like going to bed late at night?
– If you go to bed late, what do you do before bedtime?
– How do you feel the next day after having a late night?
– What is your most productive part of the day?
– Was this the same for you as a child?
Part 2 (Cue Card)
Talk about a complaint you made that was resolved to your satisfaction. You should say
– when it was
– where it was
– what you complained about and to whom
and explain how it was resolved to your satisfaction.
Part 3 (Discussion)
– Do you wear t-shirts? Why or why not?
– Do people in your country like wearing t-shirts? Why?
– Do you prefer t-shirts with slogans or pictures?
– Are there traditional or cultural designs used for t-shirts in your country?
– Do older people wear t-shirts in your country as much as younger people do?
– Are t-shirts appropriate to wear for any occasion?
– What are some occasions that t-shirts aren’t appropriate for, and why?
July 24, 2023
IELTS Speaking test in Saudi Arabia and Iran – July 2023
Two very kind IELTS test takers from Saudi Arabia and Iran shared their IELTS Speaking questions. Both took IELTS very recently, and the questions they remembered were very similar – see below:
Speaking test
Part 1 (Interview)
– What is your full name?
– Where are you from?
– How long have you been living there?
– Is your hometown a friendly place?
– Is it a good place to live for people of all ages?
– Do you always bring a lot of keys with you?
– Have you ever lost your keys?
– Do you often forget your keys and get locked out of your house?
– Do you think leaving your keys with a neighbour is a good idea?
– Have you learnt about outer space and stars in school?
– Do you like science fiction movies? Why?
– Do you want to know more about the outer space?
– Do you want to travel into the outer space in the future?
Part 2 (Cue Card)
Describe an advertisement that you saw and didn’t like. You should say
– when you saw it
– where you saw it
– what it was about
and explain why you didn’t like it.
Part 3 (Discussion)
– Do you think such advertisements are bad for children?
– Do people usually buy products after watching advertisements?
– What is the purpose of advertising?
– Why do you think there are so many advertisements now?
– How do advertisements attract attention?
– Do you think advertisements exert a positive or negative influence on children?
– Do you think advertisements actually influence people to buy things? In what way?
July 23, 2023
IELTS test in Egypt – July 2023 (Academic Module)
ML took her IELTS test in Egypt a couple of days ago and remembered the following questions. They make excellent practice for your upcoming IELTS test!
Writing test
Writing task 1 (a report)
The chart below shows percentages of attendance for 3 types of music events in 2006 in Australia.
Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.
* Note: this isn’t the actual chart given in the test, it was recreated for the purpose of demonstration.
Writing task 2 (an essay)
Some cities allow their residents to transform public parks and open space to small farms, to grow fruit and vegetables. Do the advantages of this approach outweigh its disadvantages?
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
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IELTS Speaking test in Canada – July 2023
Our kind friend FA remembered the following questions from her recent IELTS Speaking test in Canada:
Speaking test
Part 1 (Interview)
– What is your full name?
– Where are you from?
– Are people in your hometown friendly?
– How long have you lived there?
– Do you like your house?
– Do you like chocolate?
– How often do you eat chocolate?
– Did you eat chocolate when you were a child?
– Why is chocolate popular in many countries?
– What countries are famous for their chocolate?
– Is chocolate important to the economy of those countries? How?
You can find model answers about chocolate here
Part 2 (Cue Card)
Talk about an unusual meal you had. You should say
– when you had it
– where you had it
– what kind of meal it was
– and explain why it was unusual.
Follow-up question: Would you have the same meal again?
Part 3 (Discussion)
– Why do people like to eat out in restaurants?
– What things attract customers to a restaurant?
– What difference is there between home-made and restaurant food?
– Do you prefer home-cooked food or restaurant food?
– Do you believe that home cooked meals are healthier than restaurant food?
– How has restaurant dining changed in your country in the last 10 years?
You can model answers about restaurants here
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IELTS essay, topic: Some people argue that sports are essential, while others view sports as a leisure time activity (discuss + opinion)
This essay topic was seen in a recent IELTS test in Pakistan
Some people argue that sports are essential for us. Others think of sports as an activity for leisure time. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Sample Band 8 Essay
Sports have always been an integral part of human society, dating back to ancient times. Today, the importance of sports is still widely debated. Some people argue that sports are essential for our physical and mental wellbeing, while others view sports as a leisure activity. Personally, I think of sports as a very important aspect of life and make an effort to be active on a daily basis.
Those who argue that sports are essential for us believe in the numerous benefits that sports offer. Firstly, sports help us to maintain a healthy lifestyle. By engaging in sports regularly, we can keep our bodies in good shape, improve our cardiovascular health, and gain muscle strength. Physical exercise helps reduce the risk of diseases such as obesity, heart disease, and diabetes. Moreover, sports can provide relief from stress and anxiety and contribute to better mental health. The social aspect of sports also promotes teamwork, leadership, and communication skills, which are valuable in personal and professional life.
On the other hand, some people see sports as an activity for leisure time. They believe that sports should not be overly emphasised in one’s life because of the limited value they provide, and that people should engage in sports only as a form of entertainment. In their opinion, sports should not be considered as a necessity but rather as an option for enjoyment.
Although there is some truth in both views, I believe that sports are essential for us. Firstly, the physical and mental benefits of sports cannot be ignored. A healthy body and mind are fundamental to the overall well-being of an individual, and sports provide an effective means of achieving both. Moreover, sports can teach us important life skills such as teamwork and communication, which are crucial in both personal and professional life.
In conclusion, sports can be seen as essential for our physical and mental well being, as well as a means of personal growth and development. While some may view sports as a leisure activity, I strongly believe that individuals should engage in sports in order to lead a healthy and fulfilling life.
Click here to see more IELTS essays of Band 8
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IELTS test in India – July 2023 (Academic Module)
Our brilliant friend PJ from India remembered these questions from his very recent IELTS exam. Happy practicing!
Reading test
Passage 1. A text about The World’s Oldest Cities.
Passage 2. A text titled Multitasking and the Brain.
Passage 3. A text titled Child’s Play in Medieval times.
Writing test
Writing task 1 (a report)
The charts below give information on average life expectancy in four countries, from 1993 to 2008.
Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.
* Note: these aren’t the actual charts given in the test, they were recreated for the purpose of demonstration.
Writing task 2 (an essay)
Some people believe that if a child commits a crime he or she should be punished, while others think it is the child’s parents who should be punished. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
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IELTS Speaking test in India – July 2023
The questions below were shared by PJ who took his IELTS Speaking test in India a couple of days ago. Thank you so much, PJ!
Speaking test
Part 1 (Interview)
– What is your full name?
– Do you work or study?
– Where do you work?
– What do you like about your work?
– What would make your work more interesting?
– What do you dislike about your job?
– How many hours do you work each week?
Part 2 (Cue Card)
Describe your idea of a perfect house. You should say:
– where it should be
– what features it should have
– who you would live there with
– and explain why this would be the perfect house for you.
Follow up question: Have you ever seen such a house in real life?
Part 3 (Discussion)
– Are there many types of houses in your country? What are they?
– Are there any traditional houses that are still popular in your country? Can you describe them?
– What is the difference between living in an old house and a new one?
– How have the types of houses in your country changed over the years?
– Have you ever been to the zoo?
– What wild animals are commonly found in your country?
– What wild animal from another country would you like to see in the future?
July 13, 2023
IELTS Speaking questions with model answers: Work, Weekends, Restaurants and Tourism
In today’s post we are covering IELTS Speaking questions and answers on the topics of Work, Weekends, Restaurants and Tourism. The questions were shared by a student who took IELTS in the UK. The answers below show a good way to respond to these questions.
NEW! In this podcast episode you can watch the video and LISTEN to all the questions and answers. It’s great to improve your pronunciation, intonation and overall fluency!
Watch and listen in the video, or read the model answers below:
Speaking test
Part 1 (Interview) Questions & Answers
1. Do you work or study?
Actually, at the moment I study and work. I am studying for a degree in computer science, however, I also have to work to support myself through university.
2. What kind of job do you have?
I have two part-time jobs, one in a customer service role and the other as a freelance writer. In my first job I interact with customers, assist them with their inquiries, and ensure their satisfaction. As a freelance writer, I am exploring my passion for writing and contributing my skills to various projects.
3. What brings you joy at work?
The main thing that brings me joy at work is the sense of accomplishment and fulfillment that comes from achieving my goals. When I see my efforts making a positive impact or when I receive positive feedback from clients or colleagues, it truly brings a sense of joy and satisfaction.
4. What would make you enjoy your work more?
I believe a few factors would enhance my enjoyment at work. Firstly, having a work environment that fosters creativity, autonomy, and innovation would be ideal. Also, a healthy work-life balance is essential. When work demands are reasonable and allow for personal time and relaxation, I find myself enjoying work more.
5. Do you like weekends?
Yes, I do. I believe weekends are essential for rejuvenation, relaxation, and spending quality time with family and friends. After a busy week of work or study, weekends offer a much-needed break and an opportunity to recharge both physically and mentally.
6. What did you do last weekend?
Last weekend, I took the opportunity to indulge in some self-care and spent some time with people I love being around. On Saturday, I went for a rejuvenating hike in a nearby park. The fresh air, scenic views, and physical activity helped me unwind and connect with nature. And on Sunday evening, I met up with some friends at a local café, where we enjoyed conversations, laughter, and delicious food.
7. What do you usually do on weekends?
On weekends, I try to do activities that I find enjoyable and fulfilling. I may spend some time reading or watching movies. I also try to schedule some quality time with family and friends. This may involve going out for meals, or organizing gatherings.
8. Do you make plans for your weekends?
Yes, I do make plans for most of my weekends, but sometimes I spontaneously decide on things to do. Typically, I have a rough idea of the activities I would like to do or the people I want to spend time with. So I usually make reservations for dining out or book tickets for events in advance.
Part 2 (Cue Card) Question & Answer
Talk about a place far away that you would like to visit in the future. You should say
– what place it is
– where it is located
– how you will travel there
– and explain why you decided to go there.
The place I have always dreamt of visiting is the magnificent city of Tokyo in Japan. Tokyo, the capital of Japan, is located on the eastern coast of the country. It is a vibrant and bustling metropolis known for its unique blend of traditional and futuristic attractions.
To travel to Tokyo, I would most likely choose to fly. There are several international airports in Tokyo, making it easily accessible from various parts of the world.
Now, let me explain why I have decided to go to Tokyo. Firstly, I have always been fascinated by the Japanese culture, history, and their unique way of life. Tokyo, being the heart of Japan, offers a captivating mix of ancient traditions and modern innovations. I am eager to explore the historic temples and gardens that hold centuries of cultural heritage. Additionally, Tokyo is renowned for its cutting-edge technology, fashion, and culinary scene, making it an exciting and dynamic city to experience.
Also, Tokyo is famous for its remarkable architecture, neon-lit streets, and iconic landmarks like the Tokyo Tower and the Shibuya Crossing. The city’s rich history and its blend of traditional and contemporary architecture are something I am eager to witness firsthand.
Lastly, the warm and welcoming nature of the Japanese people is a significant factor that draws me to Tokyo. I have heard numerous stories about their hospitality, respect, and politeness. Interacting with the locals, trying authentic Japanese cuisine, and learning about their customs and traditions would be an enriching and memorable experience.
Part 3 (Discussion) Questions & Answers
1. Do you like dining at restaurants?
Yes, I do enjoy eating out. It’s a wonderful experience to indulge in delicious food, and explore different cuisines. Dining at restaurants also offers a social atmosphere where I can enjoy meals with friends and family. It provides a break from cooking at home and allows me to savour new flavours and dishes that I may not be able to prepare myself.
2. Do you think homemade meals are better than restaurant food? Why or why not?
While homemade meals have their own charm and benefits, it’s hard to compare them to restaurant food. Homemade meals often come with the cook’s personal touch and love, and they can be tailored to individual preferences and dietary requirements. Additionally, cooking at home gives one control over the ingredients and cooking methods, ensuring freshness and healthiness.
On the other hand, restaurant food offers a unique experience since it is prepared by skilled chefs who specialize in specific cuisines and have access to a wider range of ingredients. Their culinary creations that may be challenging to replicate at home.
3. Are there any famous restaurants where you live?
Yes, there are several famous restaurants in my city that are well-known for their exquisite cuisine and unique dining experiences. They often attract both locals and tourists who are eager to sample their culinary offerings and enjoy the ambience and service they provide.
4. What meal have you ordered at a restaurant that you enjoyed?
I had at a restaurant was a traditional Italian pizza. It was covered with a rich tomato and basil sauce and topped with mozzarella, mushrooms and olives. The pizza base was thin, the crust was crunchy, it was delicious and I ate too much because it was so hard to stop.
5. Do you think traveling abroad has a positive effect on students’ development?
I believe it does. It exposes them to new cultures and encourages them to step out of their comfort zones. Students often encounter challenges and unfamiliar situations while traveling, and this helps build resilience and self-reliance. The exposure to different languages, cuisines, and ways of life also enhances their communication skills and cross-cultural competence.
6. What do you think about the impacts of tourism on the local population?
These can be both positive and negative. On one hand, tourism can bring economic benefits by creating job opportunities and contributing to the local economy. It can stimulate business growth, and generate income for local businesses.
However, there can be challenges associated with tourism as well. The influx of tourists may lead to overcrowding and strain on resources, causing environmental degradation and infrastructure strain.
7. Can tourism lead to the preservation of local traditions and cultural heritage?
Yes, tourism can play a significant role in that. When tourists visit a destination, they often seek authentic experiences and cultural immersion. This demand encourages communities to preserve their traditions, crafts, and cultural practices. Also, tourism revenue can be reinvested in the preservation and restoration of historical landmarks, museums, and cultural sites, ensuring their sustainability for future generations.
8. What challenges can arise for the local population due to an influx of tourists?
A growing number of tourists can pose several challenges for the local population. One major challenge is the strain on infrastructure and resources. Local communities may face difficulties in coping with increased demand for transportation, accommodation, and other amenities. Also, overcrowding can lead to traffic congestion, inadequate waste management, and limited access to basic services for locals. Tourism can drive up living costs, such as housing prices and general expenses, making it more challenging for locals to afford a comfortable lifestyle. It has happened in a number of cities, such as London, Paris and Rome, and is a real problem for their residents.
Read more model answers on the VIP Club website
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Goodness got Band 8 in IELTS while 8 months pregnant, doing these simple steps
Hi everyone, this is Simone and today I would like you to meet someone special.
Goodness Okeke is a proud Nigerian woman, a native Igbo speaker, a new mum to a 5-week-old baby, AND a very successful IELTS test taker.
I was delighted to hear about her success when Goodness sent her IELTS score and asked to participate in our monthly IELTS results competition. Not only did she score Band 8.0 overall, but also got a Band 8.5 in Reading and an amazing 9 in Listening!
In her winner’s interview Goodness shared the simple steps she took to prepare for the test that ensured her success:
“My advice to everyone out there preparing for IELTS exam is first to understand that to pass the exam, you need to use the right resources. Not everything online is genuine. Most are targeted to extort money from test takers. I used resources from Simone Braverman and I am glad I did.
For Listening, you must avoid distraction at all cost. You must listen attentively not just for answers, but for every word.
For Reading, time management is very, very important, hence it is advisable to use skimming and scanning techniques to save time whenever you can. Know the question types these techniques can be used for and practice in applying them as much as you can.
For Writing, first you need to understand what you are expected to write. Don’t just rush into writing. Take your time to plan and prepare what to write. Writing without preparation often leads to lots of error. The examiner is looking out for these errors. Write legibly and ensure you write above the word limit.
For Speaking, practice different IELTS Speaking topics every day and while doing so record yourself, then listen to the recording, do some corrections and speak again.
Above all, you must not give up. Keep pushing until you get desired score!”
Thank you so much Goodness for taking the time to help everyone, and we wish you and your young family all the very best!
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