IELTS Speaking test - How to perform well in Part 1?

The International English language testing system (IELTS) test has four modules – Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. It is important to score well in all modules. However, the IELTS Speaking test is the most important component of the overall IELTS test, The Speaking test contains 3 parts which are, in this blog, we will explore Part of the IELTS Speaking test which aims to assess your ability to engage in a conversation.

Part 1 of the IELTS Speaking test is commonly known as the 'easiest' section. This is because the topics covered in this part are highly familiar to the test taker. The questions mainly revolve around personal aspects such as your background, occupation, and place of origin. Additionally, you might face inquiries about your family, homeland, individual experiences, and leisure activities. Expressing information about yourself becomes effortless due to familiarity with the vocabulary and subjects involved. But it's essential to approach it strategically to maximise your performance. Therefore, we have gathered some tips and expert advice for you to score higher in Part 1 of the IELTS Speaking test.

Structure of Part 1 of the IELTS Speaking test

Part 1 of the IELTS Speaking test contains an introduction and interview, which lasts for 4-5 minutes, In this part you and the examiner will introduce yourself first. Then you will be asked to answer some questions about you, your home, family, work, studies, and a range of general interest topics.

Here is an example of questions you might have to answer in your Part 1 of the IELTS Speaking test:

The test starts with the examiner's introduction and verification of the test taker's identification, followed by an interview-style format. If questioned about your place of residence, you will be prompted with inquiries such as:

"Let's discuss your hometown or village.

• How would you describe the overall atmosphere of the place?

• What is the most captivating aspect of your town/village?

• What types of occupations do the residents typically engage in?

• From your perspective, is it a desirable place to live? (Please explain why.)"

Now, let's proceed to talk about housing arrangements.

• "Could you share details about the type of accommodation you currently reside in?

• How long have you been living there?

• What aspects do you appreciate most about your current living situation?

• If you had the choice, what kind of accommodation would you prefer to reside in?"

10 steps of Part 1 of the IELTS Speaking test

Here are the 10 steps for you to be aware of when aiming to score high in your Part 1 of the IELTS Speaking test:

1. When your name or candidate number is called by the examiner

Respond with a friendly smile and say, 'Yes, that's me' or a similar phrase. Walk confidently towards the examiner and greet them with a simple 'Hello' or 'Hi, how are you?'

2. Take a seat at the test table

Take a deep breath, compose yourself, and remember to maintain a pleasant attitude. The examiner will have started the recording and be prepared with their paperwork for the test. Place your passport on the table in front of you, as the examiner may ask for it.

3. Introduction and basic questions

Listen as the examiner reads out your details and asks some fundamental questions about your identity and origin. Keep your responses concise, for instance, 'I come from India'. Avoid providing a memorised response about your city's location or its fame unless specifically asked for such information.

4. Presenting your ID

When the examiner asks, “Have your passport readily accessible on the photo page”, making it easy for you to hand it to the examiner. Politely offer it by saying, 'Yes, here you go,' as you pass it to them.

5. The examiner inquiries about your occupation or place of residence

Be prepared for these simple and familiar questions. If you work and study, choose one option and avoid mentioning both. Control the topic by stating either your study or work situation.

6. Pay attention to the tense and respond accordingly

Be attentive and focus on the tense the examiner is using, for example:

• Present tense question: "What do you study?" - Answer: "I'm studying science at university"

• Past tense question: "What did you study?" - Answer: "I studied science when I was at university"

• Future tense question: "What will you study?" - Answer: "I'm planning to study science in the future"

7. Elaborate on your responses proactively before the examiner asks 'why?'

For instance:

• Present tense: "I'm studying science at university because I have always wanted to be a scientist"

• Past tense: "I studied science when I was at university, and now, I am preparing to pursue my doctorate"

• Future tense: "I'm planning to study science in the future as I believe scientists will play a crucial role in addressing environmental issues."

8. Be prepared for these familiar questions

Make sure you can talk about your work or study experience, what you have accomplished, and your future plans. Also, ensure you can discuss your place of residence and your country. When responding, use a range of cohesive devices and linking words/phrases to connect your ideas coherently.

9. Speak clearly at a good pace

Articulate your words clearly by opening your mouth adequately. Avoid speaking too quickly or too slowly. Occasionally smiling as you speak can help you sound clearer, as it opens your mouth a bit wider. Use appropriate intonation and rhythm. Stress important words or words that indicate contrasts to convey your thoughts effectively.

10. Seek clarification if you don't understand a question

Don't hesitate to ask for the question to be repeated: 'Could you repeat that, please?' If there's a specific word you don't understand, you can ask: 'What does _____ mean?'

General tips for the IELTS Speaking test

Here are the general tips for you to keep in mind when preparing or giving your IELTS Speaking test. These tips will give you the best ways to approach your IELTS Speaking test:

• Say hello or Good morning/afternoon as you enter the room

• Try to stay calm and relaxed

• Be friendly, polite, and enthusiastic

• Don’t try to engage in social conversation with the examiner

• You are supposed to get engaged in a conversation with the examiner, try not to give one-word answers

• It’s important to connect ideas logically, using linking words and phrases (What’s more, having said that), conjunctions (and or because), and pronouns (them), where appropriate

• If you speak too slowly or have long pauses between words, you will lose marks

• You need to show that you can use a wide range of simple and complex grammatical structures accurately

• Say goodbye or thank you as you leave the room

If you want to know more about the IELTS test, you can visit your nearest IDP IELTS test centres. Our team of IELTS experts will clear all your answers and will assist through the whole procedure.

Read more insightful articles:

• Types of questions in IELTS Speaking

• Tips to get band 9 in IELTS Speaking

• Tips to overcome nervousness in IELTS Speaking

• Importance of accent in IELTS Speaking test

• 3 Parts in IELTS Speaking