Speaking Part 1 – Family
⚡ TL;DR
Expert tips and strategies for this part of the IELTS Speaking test. Includes sample responses and key vocabulary for Band 7+.
Originally published August 2017. Last reviewed 3 July 2026.
In this post, you will see one of the most common IELTS speaking topics (Family) 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 >> Each answer should be at least 2-3 sentences long.
TIP >> Listen carefully to the question so that you answer in the correct tense.
TIP >> When answering a yes/no question – answer then give your reasons for your answer. You must extend your answer to gain more marks.
TIP >> Just relax and think of it as a regular conversation you are having, make eye contact and be positive.
Take a look at the questions and sample answers below on the topic of ‘Family‘ >>
Q: Could you tell me something about your family?
A: My family is quite small and most people live far away from each other. Some are at the top of the country and some at the bottom. More distant relatives live in France and Australia, so we don’t see them very often.
Q: Do you think it is good to live with grandparents?
A: In my opinion, living with your grandparents may be a way to save money and also to help to care for them. Perhaps they can’t do things they used to, like housework or cooking, so being able to help them would be a positive.
Q: What’s the women’s status in families?
A: Women are seen as the people in charge in most families, they have many roles within the family unit, often having qualifications and a career also. They are the carers, providers, mothers and managers.
Q: Do you think it good to be the only child in the family?
A: On the one hand, it could be a lonely existence when you are a small child but as you become older would start to enjoy having that space. On the other hand, they are missing out on the connection that you see between siblings.
Q: Is there any generation gap in your family?
A: There is a divide between the older members of the family and the young, with varying views on politics and religion which leads to misunderstandings.
Q: Do you like your family?
A: Yes of course! My immediate family – my parents are amazing people, kind, funny and caring. The other members of my family and my husbands family are all very lovely people, who have good times together.
Q: Who is your closest family member?
A: My mother is very close to me and we talk every day, often about trivial things like what our dogs have been doing. She likes to ask questions about my dog, to make sure he is being taken care of like a king!
Q: What are your parents like?
A: Very good, kind and funny people. They like to laugh, read, travel and like all of the same TV shows as me. They are very caring people too, helping in the community – for a children’s charity and to protect the environment.
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