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 (Music) 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 ‘Music‘ >>
Q: What kind of music is popular in your country?
A: In my country, there are many different types of music that people like to listen to. Pop music is always fashionable and so is folk music. People have many different tastes and there are always concerts for classical, rock, pop and folk. Traditional music is still much loved for weddings and baptism celebrations, as well as village festivals in the summer months.
Q: What do old people like to listen to?
A: They like to hear music from when they were younger, traditional music and sometimes classical. I don’t think they like to listen to pop songs or anything heavy, maybe they listen to the radio but something that is more relaxing. For instance, my grandma like to listen to a radio station that has a mixed programme of stories, interviews, plays and classical music.
Q: Do you play any musical instruments?
A: Yes, I play the piano and I started to learn when I was about 6 years old. I had lessons every Saturday in my house from a great teacher called Mr Haris. I loved learning and developing my skills. I like to play classical music and at Christmas love paying traditional Christmas carols. I think that it is important for children to learn how to play an instrument if they like it of course. It can help them to develop creative skills and give them much enjoyment.
Q: What might be the best age to start learning to play a musical instrument?
A: In my view starting to learn when you are young is the best option. Children’s minds are so impressionable when they are young, they retain information and soak it up like a sponge. They can develop their musical skills and see if they have a talent for it. if you start learning later in life, it will probably be more difficult to find the time, to have lessons and to practice.
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 (Sport) 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 ‘Sport‘ >>
Q: Why are some sports fans so passionate?
A: I think that they really connect with the sport and their hometown, so it has a special meaning for them. I know that in my home city, the people who live there are so supportive of the football team and they have a huge following. They are so proud of the team and love the fact that they are ambassadors for the city, representing it on an international level.
Q: Is there any violence at sporting events in your country?
A: Unfortunately, there is, and there now has to be a heavy police presence at most football games. The worst cases in the past have been the home games, when the neighbouring city rivals play and the fans want to cause trouble, by fighting and causing harm to city property. The police deploy the horse guards to keep the peace and sometimes send in the armed police if things get really bad. I always avoid going into the city if I know there are any football games on that day.
Q: Should athletes be better role models?
A: I think so yes, many people including children look up to these sports stars and when they do reckless things, it has an impact. For example, if they are seen driving dangerously in their sports cars, then people seem to think this is ok and that other people can act like this. There are good role models there too, for instance, David Beckham does a lot for charity and has a children’s football academy.
Q: What benefits do international sporting events bring?
A: They can bring a huge influx of tourism into the country, boosting the economy. This has happened many times recently with the recent boxing match in Las Vegas is an example, many people visited and wanted to see that fight. I think that they also promote the country they are in, allowing people to see what it is like if the event is televised.
Q: Is it important for a country to win lots of medals?
A: I haven’t really thought about that before, but I think that it does give a country status and can help to raise its profile in the media. For example, when the UK wins any gold medals, it is always heavily promoted in the news and those athletes are given star status. They help to raise the profile of the country and show other places that they can win and be on top.
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 (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.
