"Stand on the shoulders of giants."
Mastering IELTS Speaking Part 2: Individual Long Turn
The IELTS Speaking Test challenges your English proficiency, and Part 2: Individual Long Turn is where you can shine or struggle if unprepared. For Vietnamese learners, this section can feel intimidating since it requires speaking alone for 1–2 minutes without interruption. This guide will help you understand the format, evaluation criteria (pronunciation, fluency, vocabulary, and grammar), and provide 20 unique topics with cue cards, sample prompts, and Band 7–8.0 responses. By using sophisticated language and confident delivery, you will learn to impress the examiner and achieve a high score.
Part 2 lasts 3–4 minutes and is called the “long turn” because you speak continuously. Here’s how it works:
The examiner gives you a cue card with a topic and 3–4 points to cover (e.g., “what,” “where,” “why”).
You have 1 minute to prepare and take notes on provided paper.
You speak for 1–2 minutes until the examiner stops you.
Afterward, the examiner may ask 1–2 follow-up questions.
Unlike Part 1, this section assesses your ability to sustain a monologue. Topics range from personal experiences (e.g., “a memorable trip”) to abstract ideas (e.g., “an environmental change”). Many Vietnamese learners struggle with hesitation, clear pronunciation, and varied vocabulary under time pressure. Let’s explore the evaluation criteria and strategies to achieve Band 7–8.0.
The examiner scores your performance from 0 to 9 based on four areas. Below are three key criteria and what is required for Band 7–8:
Speech should be clear with effective use of stress (e.g., “ex-PER-ience” vs. “EX-per-i-ment”) and intonation.
Avoid monotone delivery and mispronunciation of sounds like “th” and “v.”
Minor pronunciation errors are acceptable as long as they do not impede understanding.
Speak smoothly for the full 1–2 minutes with minimal hesitation or repetition.
Use linking words (e.g., “furthermore,” “as a result”) to connect ideas logically.
Provide a structured and engaging narrative beyond the cue card points.
Use precise, topic-specific vocabulary (e.g., “exhilarating” instead of “fun”).
Incorporate a mix of complex sentence structures (e.g., “Having visited many places, I still find this one unique”).
Minor grammar mistakes are acceptable if they do not hinder communication.
TIPS
For IELTS Speaking Part 2, you’re given a cue card with a topic and 1 minute to prepare before speaking for 1-2 minutes. Here are some practical tips to help you perform well:
Quick Example (Topic: Describe a book you enjoyed):
"I’d like to talk about a book called The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho. I read it two years ago at home during a rainy weekend. It’s about a boy chasing his dreams, and I loved it because it inspired me to think about my own goals. The story was so gripping that I finished it in one sitting, and it left me feeling really motivated."
Cue Card: Describe a memorable trip you took. You should say:
Where you went
Who you went with
What you did there
Why it was memorable
Response:
"One of the most unforgettable trips I have ever taken was to Sapa, a stunning mountain town in northern Vietnam. I traveled there with a group of close friends during autumn, a time when the terraced rice fields glow with a golden hue, creating a breathtakingly picturesque landscape. We were immediately captivated by the town’s cool misty air, which was a refreshing change from the heat of the city.
During our stay, we embarked on a trekking adventure through the Muong Hoa Valley, winding through lush green hills, crossing bamboo bridges, and visiting local ethnic villages. One of the most fascinating aspects of the trip was interacting with the H’mong and Dao people, who welcomed us with warm smiles and shared insights into their traditional way of life. We had the chance to taste authentic H’mong cuisine, including a hearty bowl of thắng cố, a traditional stew that was both flavorful and comforting in the cold weather.
The highlight of our journey was conquering Fansipan, the highest peak in Indochina. The cable car ride offered a breathtaking panoramic view of the rolling mountains, but nothing compared to the feeling of standing at the summit, above the clouds, with the freezing wind brushing against our faces. It was an exhilarating moment, one that made me truly appreciate the beauty of nature and the joy of adventure.
Looking back, this trip was not just about exploring a beautiful destination, but also about bonding with friends, embracing new experiences, and stepping outside my comfort zone. Even today, when I see pictures of Sapa, I feel an overwhelming sense of nostalgia and gratitude for the memories we created."
Cue Card: Describe a book you enjoyed reading. You should say:
What the book was
Why you read it
How you felt about it
Why you recommend it
Response:
"A book that left a lasting impact on me is The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho. I picked it up during a quiet holiday last year, after hearing from many people that it was an inspirational and life-changing read. At first, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but as I turned the pages, I became completely engrossed in the story.
The novel follows a young shepherd named Santiago who embarks on a journey across the deserts of North Africa in search of his 'Personal Legend', or life’s true purpose. Throughout his journey, he encounters mystical characters, faces numerous obstacles, and learns valuable lessons about fate, perseverance, and self-discovery. One of the ideas that resonated with me the most was that 'when you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it.' This simple yet profound message made me reflect on my own dreams and ambitions.
I also loved the book’s poetic writing style and the way it blends philosophy with adventure. Some parts of the book felt almost magical, yet they carried deep, universal truths about life. I would highly recommend The Alchemist to anyone seeking motivation, clarity, or a fresh perspective on their goals. It is a thought-provoking, beautifully written novel that encourages readers to chase their dreams fearlessly."
Cue Card: Describe a person you admire. You should say:
Who they are
How you know them
What they are like
Why you admire them
Response:
"Someone I truly admire and respect is my grandmother. She is in her seventies now, yet she remains incredibly energetic, strong-willed, and full of wisdom. Since childhood, I have looked up to her as a role model because of her unwavering optimism and resilience.
My grandmother grew up in a small rural village, where life was extremely challenging. Despite having limited access to education, she worked tirelessly to support her family and ensure that her children, including my mother, could have a better life. She is the type of person who never complains, even when things get tough. Instead, she faces hardships with grace and determination.
What I admire most about her is her kindness and generosity. She is always willing to help others, whether it’s by cooking meals for neighbors, giving advice, or simply offering a listening ear. I feel incredibly grateful to have such a strong, loving figure in my life. Whenever I feel discouraged, I remind myself of her words: 'Hardships are only temporary, but perseverance lasts a lifetime.' This has motivated me to work harder and stay positive even in difficult times."
Cue Card: Describe a special gift you received. You should say:
What it was
Who gave it to you
When you got it
Why it was special
Response:
"One of the most meaningful gifts I have ever received was a hand-knitted scarf from my older sister for my 20th birthday. It wasn’t just an ordinary scarf—it was made by hand, using soft blue wool with intricate patterns that she had carefully woven over several weeks.
What made this gift so special was not just the scarf itself, but the time, effort, and love she put into making it. My sister is a nurse, and she has an incredibly busy schedule, yet she still managed to spend time crafting something personal for me. When she gave it to me during our family dinner, I was deeply touched.
Every time I wear the scarf, especially on cold winter days, I feel a warm sense of comfort—not just from the fabric, but from the bond we share as siblings. It serves as a reminder of her love, thoughtfulness, and the strong connection we have."
Cue Card: Describe a happy event in your life. You should say:
What it was
When it happened
Who was there
Why it made you happy
Response:
"A truly joyous moment in my life was my university graduation last June. It was held in a grand hall in Hanoi, and I was surrounded by my classmates, professors, and my proud family members.
The ceremony was filled with excitement and anticipation as each of us walked across the stage to receive our hard-earned diplomas. I remember feeling a mix of relief and accomplishment, knowing that all the years of studying, late nights, and hard work had finally paid off. After the ceremony, we celebrated with a big meal, taking countless photos and sharing laughter and memories.
What made this event even more special was seeing my parents beaming with pride. Their sacrifices and support had made my education possible, and being able to make them proud was the greatest reward of all."
Cue Card: Describe a useful skill you learned. You should say:
What the skill was
How you learned it
Why it was useful
How you use it now
Response:
“One useful skill I learned was public speaking, which has been incredibly beneficial in both my academic and personal life. I developed this skill during my second year at university in Da Lat, when I joined a debate club. Initially, I was quite nervous and would often stumble over my words, but over time, I learned to organize my thoughts, speak with confidence, and engage with the audience. One of the most effective techniques I practiced was recording myself and listening back to improve my pronunciation and intonation.
This skill has proven to be extremely useful in many aspects of my life. In university, I have to deliver presentations for my coursework, and thanks to my training, I can now speak clearly and persuasively. Outside of academics, I’ve also found public speaking valuable when networking with professionals and even in casual conversations. I feel that mastering this skill has not only made me a better communicator but has also boosted my confidence in various situations. Looking back, I’m very grateful that I took the initiative to improve my speaking abilities.”
Cue Card: Describe a significant change in your life. You should say:
What the change was
When it happened
How it affected you
How you feel about it now
Response:
“One of the most significant changes in my life was moving to Da Lat to attend university. Before coming here, I lived in Ho Chi Minh City, which is a bustling, crowded, and fast-paced place. In contrast, Da Lat is peaceful, scenic, and has a much cooler climate. This transition happened about two years ago, and at first, I found it challenging because I was so used to the convenience and energy of a big city.
However, after a few months, I started to appreciate the slower pace of life. The cool weather makes it perfect for studying, and I love the fact that I can easily access nature whenever I feel stressed. I’ve also become more independent and learned how to manage my time efficiently, since living away from home requires self-discipline. Now, I feel that this change was one of the best decisions I have ever made because it has helped me grow as a person and develop a more balanced lifestyle.”
Cue Card: Describe a piece of advice someone gave you. You should say:
Who gave you the advice
What the advice was
Why it was helpful
How it influenced you
Response:
“One of the most valuable pieces of advice I have ever received came from my father when I was struggling with my university studies. He told me, ‘Success is not about being the smartest, but about being the most persistent.’ At the time, I was feeling overwhelmed with assignments and exams, and I often felt that other students were more talented than me.
This advice was incredibly helpful because it changed my perspective on hard work and perseverance. Instead of comparing myself to others, I started focusing on consistency and improvement. I developed better study habits, like setting small goals, taking structured breaks, and practicing self-discipline. Over time, I noticed that my grades gradually improved, and I became much more confident in my abilities.
Even now, whenever I face a difficult challenge, I remind myself of my father’s words. Whether it's learning a new skill, applying for a job, or pursuing a personal goal, I know that persistence is the key to overcoming obstacles. This simple but powerful advice has truly shaped my mindset and helped me become a more determined and resilient person.”
Cue Card: Describe a place you would like to visit in the future. You should say:
Where it is
Why you want to visit it
What you would do there
How you would feel after visiting
Response:
“A place I have always dreamed of visiting is Kyoto, Japan. It is a city that is rich in history and culture, with beautiful temples, traditional tea houses, and breathtaking gardens. I have seen many stunning photos and documentaries about Kyoto, and I am fascinated by its blend of ancient traditions and modern life.
One of the main reasons I want to visit Kyoto is because of its spectacular cherry blossoms in the spring. I can imagine walking under the pink sakura trees in Maruyama Park, taking in the serene atmosphere, and enjoying the traditional Japanese architecture. Another reason is the food—I have heard that Kyoto is famous for its kaiseki cuisine, which is a multi-course traditional meal that showcases seasonal ingredients.
If I ever get the chance to visit, I would definitely explore historical sites like Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion, and the Fushimi Inari Shrine, known for its thousands of red torii gates. I also want to experience a traditional tea ceremony and learn more about Japanese customs.
I believe that visiting Kyoto would be an eye-opening and unforgettable experience. It would allow me to immerse myself in a new culture, appreciate a different way of life, and gain inspiration from the city's tranquility and beauty. Hopefully, one day, I will be able to turn this dream into reality.”
Cue Card: Describe a hobby you want to start. You should say:
What the hobby is
Why you want to start it
How you plan to learn it
How it will benefit you
Response:
“A hobby I have been thinking about starting is photography, particularly landscape and nature photography. Living in Da Lat, I am surrounded by breathtaking scenery, from lush pine forests to colorful flower gardens and peaceful lakes. I often see tourists and photographers capturing the city’s beauty, and I always feel inspired to try it myself.
The main reason I want to learn photography is because it would allow me to express my creativity and capture special moments. I believe that photography is more than just taking pictures—it’s about telling a story through images. I also want to share my photos on social media or even create a personal blog to showcase the beauty of Da Lat.
To get started, I plan to take an online course and practice with my smartphone camera before investing in a professional DSLR camera. I also want to go on solo trips around Da Lat to experiment with different angles and lighting conditions.
I think photography would be a wonderful hobby because it would not only help me develop a new skill but also allow me to appreciate my surroundings more deeply. It could also be a great way to reduce stress and find peace of mind by focusing on the beauty of the world around me. I’m really excited to start this hobby and see how it enhances my perspective on life.”
Cue Card: Describe a famous person you would like to meet. You should say:
Who they are
Why they are famous
Why you would like to meet them
What you would say to them
Response:
“One inspirational person I would love to meet is Nguyễn Ngọc Ký, a well-known Vietnamese writer and educator who overcame great physical challenges. He lost the use of his arms as a child but learned to write using his feet, eventually becoming a teacher, author, and role model for many people in Vietnam.
I admire him because of his unbreakable determination and positive attitude toward life. He proved that with perseverance and hard work, we can achieve anything, no matter the obstacles. I first read his autobiography in high school, and I was deeply moved by his journey.
If I ever had the chance to meet him, I would ask him how he stayed so motivated despite facing so many hardships. I would also want to hear his advice on overcoming personal struggles and achieving success. Meeting him would be a life-changing experience, as I believe he could teach me a lot about resilience and inner strength.”
Cue Card: Describe a time when you got lost. You should say:
Where you were
What happened
How you found your way
How you felt about it
Response:
“A few months ago, I got lost while exploring Tuyen Lam Lake, a beautiful and tranquil area in Da Lat. I had gone there with a friend, but we decided to take different paths to see more of the scenery. I walked along a small wooded trail, thinking it would lead me back to the main road, but after 20 minutes, I realized I had no idea where I was.
At first, I felt a little panicked because my phone had no signal, and there were very few people around. However, I tried to stay calm and retrace my steps. After walking for another 15 minutes, I finally saw a local fisherman by the lake. I asked him for directions in Vietnamese, and luckily, he was very friendly and pointed me toward the main road.
Although it was a bit stressful at the time, I now look back on it as a memorable adventure. It taught me to always stay aware of my surroundings and to be better prepared when exploring unfamiliar places. Plus, I got to see parts of the lake I might not have visited otherwise!”
Cue Card: Describe a time you tried a new activity for the first time. You should say:
What the activity was
When and where you tried it
How you felt before and after
Whether you would do it again
Response:
“One exciting activity I tried for the first time was paragliding at Langbiang Mountain in Da Lat. It was during a school trip last year, and even though I had always been curious about extreme sports, I had never actually had the courage to try one.
Before taking off, I felt a mix of excitement and nervousness. The instructor gave me a safety briefing and helped me put on the gear. As soon as we ran off the edge of the hill and lifted into the air, my fear disappeared completely. The view from above was breathtaking—I could see the rolling hills, green valleys, and winding roads of Da Lat stretching out beneath me.
After landing, I felt a huge rush of adrenaline and accomplishment. It was an experience unlike anything I had ever done before, and I realized that sometimes we need to step out of our comfort zones to truly enjoy life. If I ever have the chance, I would definitely do it again, maybe even in a different city or country!”
Cue Card: Describe a restaurant where you had a great meal. You should say:
Where the restaurant is
What kind of food it serves
What you ordered
Why you enjoyed it
Response:
“One of the best meals I’ve ever had was at a small restaurant in Da Lat called ‘Léguda Buffet’, which specializes in hotpot dishes using fresh vegetables grown in the city. I went there with a group of friends on a cold evening, and the warm, flavorful soup was exactly what we needed.
We ordered a mixed vegetable hotpot, which came with a variety of locally grown ingredients like mushrooms, cabbage, sweet corn, and tofu. The soup was rich and had a perfect balance of spicy and sour flavors. We also had some grilled pork skewers, which were incredibly juicy and full of smoky flavor.
What I loved most about this restaurant was not just the delicious food, but also the cozy atmosphere and the fact that it overlooks Tuyen Lam Lake, offering a stunning panoramic view of Da Lat’s natural beauty. Eating there made me appreciate how much fresh, high-quality ingredients can enhance a meal. I would definitely recommend this restaurant to anyone visiting Da Lat.”
Cue Card: Describe a family tradition you follow. You should say:
What the tradition is
How long your family has followed it
How it is celebrated
Why it is important to your family
Response:
“One special tradition in my family is celebrating Tết Trung Thu, or the Mid-Autumn Festival, which has been an important part of our culture for generations. Although it is widely celebrated in Vietnam, my family has our own unique way of making it special.
Every year, we prepare homemade mooncakes instead of buying them from stores. My grandmother has a secret recipe for lotus seed and salted egg yolk mooncakes, and the entire family helps with mixing, molding, and baking them together. We also set up a beautiful display of fruits and lanterns in our garden.
On the night of the festival, we gather outside, enjoy the cool evening breeze, and watch the full moon together while sharing stories and laughter. The younger children in the family play with colorful star-shaped lanterns, just like I used to when I was younger.
This tradition is very meaningful to me because it brings our family closer together and helps us appreciate our cultural heritage. Even though I am now in university, I always make sure to go home for Tết Trung Thu because it reminds me of my childhood and the importance of family bonds.”
Cue Card: Describe a time when you overcame a difficult situation. You should say:
What the challenge was
Why it was difficult
How you overcame it
What you learned from the experience
Response:
“One of the biggest challenges I have faced was improving my English pronunciation when I first started university. Even though I had a solid understanding of grammar and vocabulary, my spoken English was not very clear, and I often felt self-conscious when speaking in class.
The biggest difficulty was that many Vietnamese learners, including myself, struggle with certain English sounds, like the "th" sound in words like ‘think’ and ‘this’, or the difference between ‘ship’ and ‘sheep’. My university required students to give oral presentations, so I knew I had to work on my pronunciation to gain confidence.
To overcome this, I started practicing every day by listening to native English speakers on YouTube and repeating after them. I also used a mirror technique, where I would watch my mouth movements while speaking to ensure I was articulating words correctly. Additionally, I joined an English-speaking club in Da Lat, where I could practice speaking with other students and receive constructive feedback.
After a few months of practice, I noticed a significant improvement in my pronunciation, and I felt much more confident during my presentations. This experience taught me that consistent effort and patience are the keys to overcoming any challenge.”
Cue Card: Describe a good decision you made. You should say:
What the decision was
When you made it
Why you made it
How it affected you
Response:
“A great decision I made was starting a morning exercise routine to improve my health and productivity. I made this decision about a year ago, during my second year of university in Da Lat.
Before this, I used to wake up late and feel sluggish throughout the day, which affected my ability to concentrate on my studies. Since Da Lat is famous for its cool weather and fresh air, I thought it would be a great idea to take advantage of it by waking up early and exercising outdoors.
I started jogging around Xuan Huong Lake every morning at 6 AM. At first, it was challenging because I was used to sleeping in late, but after a few weeks, I began to enjoy the routine. I felt more energetic, more focused, and even noticed an improvement in my mood and overall well-being.
Looking back, I believe this was one of the best decisions I have ever made. Not only has it boosted my physical and mental health, but it has also taught me the importance of self-discipline and consistency.”
Cue Card: Describe a speech or presentation you gave. You should say:
What the speech was about
Who the audience was
How you prepared for it
How you felt about it
Response:
“One of the most memorable presentations I gave was during my English class at university, where I had to speak about Vietnamese coffee culture. Since I live in Da Lat, a city famous for its high-quality Arabica coffee, I thought it would be an interesting topic to discuss.
My audience consisted of my classmates and my professor, and I wanted to make sure my speech was both informative and engaging. To prepare, I did a lot of research on the history of Vietnamese coffee, the unique brewing methods like egg coffee and cà phê sữa đá, and the role coffee plays in Vietnamese daily life. I also visited a local coffee farm to take pictures and gather first-hand information.
During the presentation, I felt a bit nervous at first, but as I got into my topic, I became more confident. I even brought some freshly brewed Da Lat coffee for my classmates to try, which made the experience more interactive and enjoyable.
In the end, my professor complimented me on my clear pronunciation and well-structured speech, and my classmates told me they learned a lot from my presentation. This experience helped me realize that public speaking is a skill that improves with practice and preparation, and it gave me more confidence for future presentations.”
Cue Card: Describe a time you did something good for the environment. You should say:
What you did
Why you did it
How it helped the environment
How you felt about it
Response:
“A few months ago, I participated in a tree-planting event in Da Lat, which was organized by a local environmental group. The goal was to restore forested areas that had been damaged due to illegal logging and urban expansion.
I decided to join because I have always been passionate about nature conservation, and Da Lat is known for its lush pine forests and beautiful landscapes. Seeing the negative effects of deforestation, such as soil erosion and loss of biodiversity, made me realize the importance of taking action.
On the day of the event, I helped plant over 50 young pine trees in an area near Tuyen Lam Lake. It was hard work, but knowing that these trees would help reduce carbon dioxide levels, improve air quality, and provide a habitat for wildlife made it all worthwhile.
After the event, I felt a sense of pride and fulfillment, knowing that I had contributed to preserving Da Lat’s natural beauty. This experience also motivated me to adopt more eco-friendly habits, like reducing plastic waste and using public transportation whenever possible.”
Cue Card: Describe a toy you loved as a child. You should say:
What it was
Who gave it to you
Why you liked it
What happened to it
Response:
“One of my favorite childhood toys was a wooden spinning top, which my grandfather gave me when I was about six years old. It was handcrafted from local pine wood, which is quite common in Da Lat, and had a beautiful polished finish with colorful painted stripes.
I loved this toy because it was simple yet so entertaining. I used to spend hours spinning it on the ground, competing with my cousins to see whose top could spin the longest. Unlike modern toys, which are often electronic and expensive, this one required skill and practice to master.
Unfortunately, after many years of use, the spinning top eventually wore out and broke. However, I still keep it as a sentimental item because it reminds me of my carefree childhood and the happy memories I shared with my grandfather. Even now, whenever I see spinning tops being sold at local markets in Da Lat, I feel a sense of nostalgia.”
Pronunciation: Focus on linking words (e.g., “I enjoyed_it”) and stress (e.g., “MEM-or-a-ble”). Practice “th” and “v” sounds with tongue twisters.
Extended Answers: Use the 1-minute prep to jot down “what,” “why,” and “feelings,” then expand with examples or opinions.
Vocabulary and Grammar: Replace basic words (e.g., “nice” → “captivating”) and use complex structures (e.g., conditionals: “If I’d known, I’d have…”).
IELTS Speaking Part 2 is your opportunity to showcase fluency and depth. With these 20 topics and Band 7–8.0 responses, Vietnamese learners can develop the confidence and skills needed to succeed. Practice daily, refine pronunciation, and use advanced vocabulary to deliver compelling responses. With dedication, you can achieve a high score and impress the examiner!