Expert tips and strategies for this part of the IELTS Speaking test. Includes sample responses and key vocabulary for Band 7+.
Originally published September 2017. Last reviewed 3 July 2026.
In this post, you will see one of the most common IELTS speaking topics for part 3 (Education) and sample answers.
Please remember that in the actual test you should give honest answers and talk about your own experiences, thoughts, feelings and opinions. Do not try to memorise answers, as the examiners will probably be able to guess and you will lose marks.
However, you are able to make up information to extend your answers, but be sure that you are confident when speaking about the chosen topic and that it is believable.
TIP >> Listen to the questions the examiner asks you and think about the structure of the question. Are they asking your for your opinion? or to say how something has changed from the past to the present?
TIP >> Learn about the most commonly asked question types used in the part 3 questions. This will help you to identify how you should respond and what to look out for when you are practising.
TIP >> It is common for many people to say ‘I don’t know’ or to lose focus when they get a question they know little about. Always answer the questions and if you feel as though you don’t know about the topic, then buy yourself some time by saying; ‘I haven’t really thought about that before…. but in my opinion……’ then give your opinion, etc.
TIP >> Don’t try to answer the questions as quickly as possible, take your time and answer them to the best of your ability. Give your opinion, the reasoning behind it and support with specific examples.
Take a look at the questions and sample answers below on the topic of ‘Education‘ >>
Q: Is higher education too expensive in your country?
A: I think that it is very costly to go into higher education in my country. They recently hiked the prices up, making it extremely difficult for most people to afford it. On the one hand, spending thousands on an education is worth every penny, but on the other hand, it can bring years of debt to a student and their family. In today’s society, no one is guaranteed to get a good job straight after university, so these course fee debts often continue to follow people around for life.
Q: Should all students pay for their university education?
A: In my view, many students should be entitled to have a free higher education, especially if they can’t afford the fees but have consistent high grades. For those who are high achievers getting a paid tuition to the university of their choice could be life-changing. For example in many countries in Europe, they offer free higher education to those who obtain high grades in high school, which encourages them to develop their learning and progress into a good profession.
Q: What advantages do universities bring to society?
A: I think that there are many positive things that universities can offer the communities around them. They bring students into the area for one, which means housing will be in demand. They will spend money on food, go out and books for their course, making the town or city a buzzing hub of student life. For the students they benefit from having a high level of education, which can then be translated into skills in the workplace, keeping society going with their knowledge.
Q: Which is more important, research or teaching?
A: I think that for those who prefer to research, they enter programmes for further education, like completing a Master’s degree or a PhD. This can develop a further understanding of a subject and allow the person to develop their research skills. Many people who complete these higher levels of education, also teach as a way of sharing their knowledge and gaining respect from their peers. You can’t really teach at that level without undertaking some sort of extensive research, therefore I see them of equal importance.
Q: How should students spend their summer vacations?
A: In my opinion, I think that students should spend some time relaxing during the summer break but should also continue to study and read. A better way to make use of all of that time off is to get an internship or other work experience that will be useful for their CV. They could also have a paid part-time job so that they can save money for the forthcoming school year. When completing a degree, it is really useful to gain experience from internships, save money and continue to study. Making the most of all of that free time is important. Being idle during that time period is not really going to help them to go anywhere in the future.
We hope you found this post useful in helping you to study for the IELTS Test. If you have any questions please let us know in the comments below or on the Facebook page.
The best way to keep up to date with posts like this is to like us on Facebook, then follow us on Instagram and Pinterest.
If you need help preparing for the IELTS Test, join the IELTS Achieve Academy and see how we can assist you to achieve your desired band score. We offer an essay correction service, mock exams and online courses.
Expert tips and strategies for this part of the IELTS Speaking test. Includes sample responses and key vocabulary for Band 7+.
Originally published September 2017. Last reviewed 3 July 2026.
In this post, you will see one of the most common IELTS speaking topics for part 3 (Work) and sample answers.
Please remember that in the actual test you should give honest answers and talk about your own experiences, thoughts, feelings and opinions. Do not try to memorise answers, as the examiners will probably be able to guess and you will lose marks.
However, you are able to make up information to extend your answers, but be sure that you are confident when speaking about the chosen topic and that it is believable.
TIP >> Listen to the questions the examiner asks you and think about the structure of the question. Are they asking your for your opinion? or to say how something has changed from the past to the present?
TIP >> Learn about the most commonly asked question types used in the part 3 questions. This will help you to identify how you should respond and what to look out for when you are practising.
TIP >> It is common for many people to say ‘I don’t know’ or to lose focus when they get a question they know little about. Always answer the questions and if you feel as though you don’t know about the topic, then buy yourself some time by saying; ‘I haven’t really thought about that before…. but in my opinion……’ then give your opinion, etc.
TIP >> Don’t try to answer the questions as quickly as possible, take your time and answer them to the best of your ability. Give your opinion, the reasoning behind it and support with specific examples.
Take a look at the questions and sample answers below on the topic of ‘Work‘ >>
Q: Is it better to make important life decisions on your own or is it better to consult other people?
A: I think that for anything important you should discuss it with your nearest and dearest. For instance, if you were thinking about leaving your job you may want to talk that through with your partner or parents. The people who are close to you will be able to support you and offer you both positive and negative views. Getting a second or third opinion before making a huge decision is better than going through that on your own.
Q: Do you think good decision-making can be taught?
A: In my view, I think that many people who are successful have good instincts to make decisions on their own. However, I do think that with the right experience good decision-making can be taught. Depending on the situation and the type of decisions you have to make.
Q: Is watching TV a good way of forgetting about work or study?
A: On the one hand, watching a TV show or movie can be a good way to relax or have background noise while you are cooking or doing other things. This can help you to unwind and forget about any work stress or study projects you are doing. You can switch your mind off and focus on something else for a while, to take a break from it. On the other hand, you should do everything in moderation and not let your Netflix binge distract you for many hours, affecting your work or study negatively.
Q: Should coworkers also spend their leisure time together?
A: In my opinion, I think that it depends on the type of job you have and how well you get on with your colleagues. In some professions, it is common for workers to go out together for drinks or dinner after work at least once per week. Often people who work together for many hours develop long-lasting friendship that last years and years. I think that if you enjoy your time with your teammates then you should see them as often as you want.
Q: Do you agree that English should be the main language of international exchange?
A: From the places, I have been to I agree that it already is, as many people who can’t communicate in their native language can talk to each other in English. My niece, for example, has many friends from Spain, Poland and Greece who all communicate with each other in English. It is already a very commonly taught language and it does make it easier for people to communicate when travelling.
Q: What are the difficulties in creating a universal language?
A: I think that having a language for everyone to use all over the world, will cause some people to be excluded. For instance, many old people may find it difficult to learn or those from poor socio-economic backgrounds will feel left out of this, as they will not have the ways and means to learn. Others may rebel against this and cause trouble because they do not want to conform to having one language to be used by all.
We hope you found this post useful in helping you to study for the IELTS Test. If you have any questions please let us know in the comments below or on the Facebook page.
The best way to keep up to date with posts like this is to like us on Facebook, then follow us on Instagram and Pinterest.
If you need help preparing for the IELTS Test, join the IELTS Achieve Academy and see how we can assist you to achieve your desired band score. We offer an essay correction service, mock exams and online courses.
Expert tips and strategies for this part of the IELTS Speaking test. Includes sample responses and key vocabulary for Band 7+.
Originally published September 2017. Last reviewed 3 July 2026.
In this post, you will see one of the most common IELTS speaking topics for part 3 (Role Models) and sample answers.
Please remember that in the actual test you should give honest answers and talk about your own experiences, thoughts, feelings and opinions. Do not try to memorise answers, as the examiners will probably be able to guess and you will lose marks.
However, you are able to make up information to extend your answers, but be sure that you are confident when speaking about the chosen topic and that it is believable.
TIP >> Listen to the questions the examiner asks you and think about the structure of the question. Are they asking your for your opinion? or to say how something has changed from the past to the present?
TIP >> Learn about the most commonly asked question types used in the part 3 questions. This will help you to identify how you should respond and what to look out for when you are practising.
TIP >> It is common for many people to say ‘I don’t know’ or to lose focus when they get a question they know little about. Always answer the questions and if you feel as though you don’t know about the topic, then buy yourself some time by saying; ‘I haven’t really thought about that before…. but in my opinion……’ then give your opinion, etc.
TIP >> Don’t try to answer the questions as quickly as possible, take your time and answer them to the best of your ability. Give your opinion, the reasoning behind it and support with specific examples.
Take a look at the questions and sample answers below on the topic of ‘Role Models‘ >>
Q: Which type of people are respected most in our society?
A: I think that generally, the type of people that others look up to are mainly those with money and very expensive possessions. Like those who have homes that are lavish, luxury cars and designer clothes. Others may have more respect for those who do jobs that are difficult and rewarding, for example, doctors, nurses and teachers. Speaking for myself, I would say that I hold those in high regard who work for non-profit organisations, helping those who have nothing, like the homeless, refugees and animal shelters.
Q: Do you agree with this situation?
A: I certainly do not agree that people should follow and respect those who flaunt their wealth. Obviously, most people who are rich have worked hard to get where they are. Wealth does not always equal happiness and respect should go, in my opinion to those who do jobs that perhaps are very difficult and keep society running smoothly. For instance, the road sweepers, the litter collectors, the people who run the animal shelters for free, they are the people who should have more respect from society.
Q: What happens when young people lack good role models?
A: In my view, they can become difficult and have no direction in life. Without someone to look up to, they have no one to follow, to show them right from wrong and how to have a good life. Impressionable young people will then follow someone with a strong personality, even though they might not be the best example.
Q: What standards of behaviour should teachers set?
A: When students are in school, the teacher should be an exemplary role model for them to follow. They spend so much time with their teachers during this time, that the lessons they learn and the behaviour they see, will shape their own behaviours. For example, the teacher will create classroom rules, that all students have to follow. In my view, this is a good example of the teacher being a strong person that the students should look up to.
Q: Do you agree that you should never meet your heroes?
I do agree with this, as meeting your heroes can ruin the image of them you have. You build them up in your imagination, into being who you want them to be. When you meet them and see how they really are, it shatters your view, thus ending your dreamlike state of how amazing this person is. The public persona that many ‘heroes’ have does not match what they may be like in real life, so thinking about them, how you have them in your imagination, is much better!
We hope you found this post useful in helping you to study for the IELTS Test. If you have any questions please let us know in the comments below or on the Facebook page.
The best way to keep up to date with posts like this is to like us on Facebook, then follow us on Instagram and Pinterest.
If you need help preparing for the IELTS Test, join the IELTS Achieve Academy and see how we can assist you to achieve your desired band score. We offer an essay correction service, mock exams and online courses.
Expert tips and strategies for this part of the IELTS Speaking test. Includes sample responses and key vocabulary for Band 7+.
Originally published September 2017. Last reviewed 3 July 2026.
In this post, you will see one of the most common IELTS speaking topics for part 3 (The Internet) and sample answers.
Please remember that in the actual test you should give honest answers and talk about your own experiences, thoughts, feelings and opinions. Do not try to memorise answers, as the examiners will probably be able to guess and you will lose marks.
However, you are able to make up information to extend your answers, but be sure that you are confident when speaking about the chosen topic and that it is believable.
TIP >> Listen to the questions the examiner asks you and think about the structure of the question. Are they asking your for your opinion? or to say how something has changed from the past to the present?
TIP >> Learn about the most commonly asked question types used in the part 3 questions. This will help you to identify how you should respond and what to look out for when you are practising.
TIP >> It is common for many people to say ‘I don’t know’ or to lose focus when they get a question they know little about. Always answer the questions and if you feel as though you don’t know about the topic, then buy yourself some time by saying; ‘I haven’t really thought about that before…. but in my opinion……’ then give your opinion, etc.
TIP >> Don’t try to answer the questions as quickly as possible, take your time and answer them to the best of your ability. Give your opinion, the reasoning behind it and support with specific examples.
Take a look at the questions and sample answers below on the topic of ‘The Internet‘ >>
Q: Which websites are popular among your generation?
A: I think that websites with information about how to do things are really trendy, for example, recipes and how to make certain dishes or how to make clothes with tutorials to follow. People are finding new hobbies through looking at websites and learning how to develop new skills.
Q: Is using the internet a social or solitary activity?
A: In my opinion, I think that it depends on what you are doing, for instance, if you are at university and working on a group project, then you may have to work with your peers to find information. However, for most people it is a solitary experience, working with your desktop, tablet or phone to find out whatever information you are looking for.
Q: How has the internet changed social behaviour?
A: Before the internet people interacted much more when meeting up and going out together, now you see people glued to their phone screens. Their focus is on their social media apps looking at what their friends and family are doing through photos and status updates, rather than actually talking to them. Communication is mostly through social media, with instant chat cutting the need for face to face meetings.
Q: Should companies check job applicants’ online profiles?
A: It’s not unreasonable for employers to do this, however, I think that what people share online may not be the whole picture of how they behave at work. For example, seeing photographs of a person on a night out with friends acting silly, does not mean that they will act like that in the workplace. It can give the employer a wider sense of the persons personality and interests so that they can see if they really are who they say they are.
Q: What will be the next big development online?
A: In my view, I think that more and more people will be able to work online from home in the future. Companies will make it easier for employees to take work home with them, giving them a hard drive or a company modified super tablet, with everything they need to work productively from anywhere. It has already happened with many companies, including Apple and Amazon. It makes sense that this trend will continue and we will see more of it.
We hope you found this post useful in helping you to study for the IELTS Test. If you have any questions please let us know in the comments below or on the Facebook page.
The best way to keep up to date with posts like this is to like us on Facebook, then follow us on Instagram and Pinterest.
If you need help preparing for the IELTS Test, join the IELTS Achieve Academy and see how we can assist you to achieve your desired band score. We offer an essay correction service, mock exams and online courses.
Expert tips and strategies for this part of the IELTS Speaking test. Includes sample responses and key vocabulary for Band 7+.
Originally published September 2017. Last reviewed 3 July 2026.
In this post, see the top 5 speaking part 3 tips that will help you to achieve a band score 7 or above.
The IELTS Speaking Test lasts 11-14 minutes.
The test has three parts, where you are interviewed by a trained examiner. You are not allowed to use a dictionary during the test. IELTS Academic and IELTS General students take the same test and it is marked in the same way.
PART 3 INFORMATION
Part 3 = 3-4 minutes – A conversation between you and the examiner.
The examiner will lead the conversation by asking general questions, which relate to the topic/cue card used in part 2.
The questions asked will encourage you to share your thoughts, feeling and opinions. You are scored on your use of English, not on your general knowledge or opinions.
Here is an example of a part 2 cue card question and related part 3 questions;
Part 2 Question – Describe someone you know who has been a role model to you.
Part 3 Questions
Which type of people are respected most in your society?
Do you agree with this situation?
What happens when young people lack good role models?
What standards of behaviour should teachers set?
Do you agree that you should never meet your heroes?
As you can see the questions become a bit more difficult and require more in-depth answers than those in part 1.
Take a look at our top tips below and see how you can improve your band score >>
SPEAKING TIPS
TIP 1 >> Listen carefully
Listen to the questions the examiner asks you and think about the structure of the question. Are they asking your for your opinion? or to say how something has changed from the past to the present?
Listening carefully to the question will help you to create your answer and deliver it in a logical way, using the correct grammar structures. For example;
Has travel become safer in recent years? (The past to present, opinion)
What are the pros and cons of low-cost air travel? (Opinion, advantages, disadvantages)
How do you think people will travel in the future? (Present, future, opinion, hypothetical)
TIP 2 >> Know About the most common types of questions
Learn about the most commonly asked question types used in the part 3 questions. This will help you to identify how you should respond and what to look out for when you are practising.
Common Types of Questions
Opinion – When asked your opinion, be honest or if you don’t really know about the topic, make it up! Think about things you have read about, heard and know from your own experiences to form your answers. Give reasons why and support with specific examples.
Assess – You may be asked what you think about someone else’s opinion, do you agree or disagree? Give reasons why.
Hypothetical – These type of questions ask you to comment on something that is an imaginary or unreal situation. Like saying ‘In the future how do you think we will travel?’ You have to use your imagination to give your answer and comment on something that hasn’t happened yet.
Cause and Effect – Think about the cause of the situation and the effects it has had.
Compare and Contrast – To look at the similarities and differences of the given topic/question.
Past – What has changed from the past until now? (the present)
Future – Give your opinion on what might happen in the future (using would or could).
TIP 3 >> Stay Calm and Focus
Stay calm and focus on the day of your exam and give your opinions to the best of your ability on the day. The examiner will test your ability to use English in part 3, even more so than in parts 1 and 2. The questions are more difficult and depending on the topic, may be something you know little about. They will ask you questions to push your limits and see how well you can answer, demonstrating your use of the grammatical structures and vocabulary.
Try to stay calm and think about your opinions, listening carefully to any keywords that tell you if they want to know about the past/present or present/future etc. Answer with confidence and aim for a high band score. Practice as much as possible with a speaking partner or your native speaking English teacher.
TIP 4 >> Answer All of the Questions
It is common for many people to say ‘I don’t know’ or to lose focus when they get a question they know little about. Always answer the questions and if you feel as though you don’t know about the topic, then buy yourself some time by saying; ‘I haven’t really thought about that before…. but in my opinion……’ then give your opinion, etc.
Obviously do not do that for every question, only for the ones where you are really stuck for something to say to start off with. The examiner will be looking for your ability to answer these part 3 questions in depth and you need to give it your best shot if you are hoping to gain a high band score.
TIP 5 >> Take Your Time
Don’t try to answer the questions as quickly as possible, take your time and answer them to the best of your ability. Give your opinion, the reasoning behind it and support with specific examples. If you can remember to do that (answer depending on the type of question asked) then your answers should stretch and show the examiner what you are capable of.
If you answer quickly, the examiner will keep giving you questions, progressing to more difficult questions as the test goes on. Take your time and answer the questions well, showing off your English language skills. You can also ask the examiner to repeat a question if you have not heard it correctly, but try not to do this for every question (only if you really need to).
We hope you found this post useful in helping you to study for the IELTS Test. If you have any questions please let us know in the comments below or on the Facebook page.
The best way to keep up to date with posts like this is to like us on Facebook, then follow us on Instagram and Pinterest.
If you need help preparing for the IELTS Test, join the IELTS Achieve Academy and see how we can assist you to achieve your desired band score. We offer an essay correction service, mock exams and online courses.
