Welcome to Lesson 3!

In this lesson, we will cover more complex IELTS Speaking topics and practice all three parts of the speaking test: Introduction & Interview (Part 1), Long Turn (Part 2), and Discussion (Part 3). The topics we’ll focus on today are Friends & Social Life, Health & Wellness, Childhood & Memories, Shopping & Spending Habits, and Technology in Daily Life. Along with more advanced vocabulary and examples, this lesson will help you build fluency and structure your answers effectively.

 

Part 1: Warm-Up & Recap (15 mins)

Let’s start by reflecting on the last lesson. Pair up and discuss:

• What strategies have helped you improve your speaking skills?
• What challenges did you face when talking about the topics from the last lesson?

This reflection will guide you as we move into today’s session.

 

Part 2: Key Vocabulary & Structures for New Topics (40 mins)

Before jumping into practice, we will explore advanced vocabulary and structures for the topics we’ll discuss. This will help you build rich, detailed responses.

1. Friends & Social Life Vocabulary and Structures

Advanced Vocabulary to Use:

• Friendship-related Terms: lifelong friend, confidant, acquaintance, social circle, companionship.
• Describing Qualities: empathetic, considerate, reliable, trustworthy, loyal, extroverted, introverted.
• Social Activities: bond, socialize, unwind, spend quality time, catch up, hang out, reconnect.

Grammatical Structures:

• Comparing Relationships:
  • “I’ve had many acquaintances over the years, but only a few have become lifelong friends. The distinction, for me, lies in the depth of the relationship and shared experiences.”
• Explaining Friendship Dynamics:
  • "I consider my closest friend to be my confidant because we have built a relationship based on trust and mutual understanding."

Example Sentences:

• "I value the companionship of my friends because they offer emotional support and encouragement during difficult times."
• "My social circle consists of people who share similar values and interests, making it easy to bond over common experiences."

 

Sample Questions and Answers for Friends & Social Life

Part 1: Introduction & Interview

• Question: How important are friends in your life?

  • Sample Answer: “Friends are incredibly important in my life. They provide me with emotional support and a sense of belonging. I think that strong friendships help us navigate life’s challenges, and my friends have always been there for me.”

• Question: Do you think it’s easy to make friends as an adult?

  • Sample Answer: “It can be more challenging to make friends as an adult because we tend to have more responsibilities and less time to socialize. However, I believe that by joining social clubs or interest groups, it’s possible to meet like-minded people.”

Part 2: Long Turn

• Question: Describe a close friend. You should say:

  • How you met

  • What you usually do together

  • Why you consider this person a close friend

  • Sample Answer:
    “One of my closest friends is someone I met in university. We were both studying the same subject and bonded over our shared passion for history. Since then, we’ve remained inseparable. We catch up at least once a week, usually over coffee or dinner, and we often talk about our careers, personal lives, and future plans. I consider this person a close friend because they’re always reliable and provide unconditional support.”

Part 3: Discussion

• Question: How do friendships differ from family relationships?

  • Sample Answer: “I think family relationships are often based on obligation and shared history, whereas friendships are more voluntary and based on shared interests. However, both types of relationships require effort and mutual understanding. With family, there may be more unspoken expectations, while friendships are typically more relaxed.”

• Question: How do social media platforms impact friendships?

  • Sample Answer: “Social media has transformed the way we maintain friendships. On one hand, it allows us to stay in touch with friends who live far away. On the other hand, it can sometimes create superficial relationships where meaningful interactions are replaced by likes and comments. While I believe social media can enhance communication, it’s important to meet in person to strengthen emotional bonds.”

 

>>>> IELTS Speaking Self-Evaluation Checklist

1. Fluency & Coherence

• Did I speak without long pauses or frequent hesitations?
• Did my ideas flow logically from one point to the next, using linking words when necessary?

2. Vocabulary

• Did I use a variety of vocabulary, including advanced or topic-specific words?
  (e.g., “automation” for technology or “balanced diet” for health)
• Did I avoid repeating the same words, using synonyms or paraphrasing when appropriate?

3. Grammatical Range & Accuracy

• Did I use a range of sentence structures (simple, complex, conditionals, etc.)?
  (e.g., “If I had more time, I would travel”)
• Were my sentences grammatically correct, with no major mistakes in tense or word order?

4. Pronunciation

• Was my pronunciation clear and easy to understand?
• Did I use appropriate intonation and stress to enhance meaning?

5. Content & Ideas

• Did I fully answer the question, providing relevant and detailed responses?
• Did I support my ideas with examples or explanations?

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Reflection Questions

• What went well in my speaking?
• What is one area I need to improve for next time?

 

2. Health & Wellness Vocabulary and Structures

Advanced Vocabulary to Use:

• Health-related Terms: mental health, physical fitness, well-being, mindfulness, work-life balance, stress management.
• Describing Habits: adopt healthy habits, maintain a balanced diet, manage stress, stay active, practice mindfulness.
• Wellness Concepts: holistic health, self-care, relaxation techniques, chronic stress, physical endurance.

Grammatical Structures:

• Discussing Health Routines:
  • “I’ve recently adopted a more holistic approach to health, focusing on both mental well-being and physical fitness.”
• Explaining the Importance of Health:
  • “Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is crucial for long-term well-being. Regular exercise and a balanced diet can help prevent chronic diseases and improve mental clarity.”

Example Sentences:

• "I believe that self-care is an essential aspect of maintaining mental health, and I make time each day to unwind and practice relaxation techniques."
• "Incorporating physical activity into my daily routine helps me to reduce stress and increase my energy levels."

 

Sample Questions and Answers for Health & Wellness

Part 1: Introduction & Interview

• Question: How do you stay healthy?

  • Sample Answer: “I try to stay healthy by maintaining a balanced diet and exercising regularly. I also prioritize my mental well-being by practicing mindfulness and ensuring I get enough sleep.”

• Question: Do you think it's important to exercise regularly?

  • Sample Answer: “Absolutely. Regular exercise is not only important for physical health but also for mental well-being. It helps to reduce stress and keep both the body and mind in shape.”

Part 2: Long Turn

• Question: Describe a time when you made an effort to improve your health. You should say:

  • What you did

  • Why you did it

  • How it affected your health

  • Sample Answer:
    “A few years ago, I realized I was leading a very sedentary lifestyle, so I decided to make an effort to become more physically active. I started jogging every morning and gradually incorporated more cardio into my routine. I made this change because I noticed I was often feeling lethargic and needed more energy. Over time, this new routine drastically improved both my physical fitness and mental clarity.”

Part 3: Discussion

• Question: What challenges do people face when trying to maintain a healthy lifestyle?

  • Sample Answer: “One of the biggest challenges is time management. With busy work schedules and personal commitments, many people struggle to find time for exercise or to prepare healthy meals. Additionally, unhealthy habits, like snacking or procrastinating on workouts, are often more convenient.”

• Question: Do you think mental health is as important as physical health?

  • Sample Answer: “I absolutely believe that mental health is just as important, if not more so, than physical health. Without a healthy mind, it’s difficult to maintain physical health because stress and anxiety can lead to unhealthy behaviors. Mindfulness and stress management should be priorities alongside physical fitness.”

 

3. Childhood & Memories Vocabulary and Structures

Advanced Vocabulary to Use:

• Memory-related Terms: nostalgia, reminisce, cherished memory, formative years, carefree, adventurous.
• Describing Childhood: upbringing, play outdoors, explore, innocent, imaginative, vivid memories.
• Talking About Growth: mature, responsibility, reflect, evolve, learn from experiences.

Grammatical Structures:

• Reflecting on Childhood:
  • "I have many vivid memories of my childhood, particularly the times I spent playing outdoors with my friends."
• Describing Nostalgia:
  • "Whenever I think back to my formative years, I feel a deep sense of nostalgia for the carefree days of my youth."

Example Sentences:

• "My upbringing was quite traditional, and I spent a lot of time with my family, which created many cherished memories."
• "As a child, I was adventurous and loved to explore the world around me, whether it was in my backyard or on family trips."

 

Sample Questions and Answers for Childhood & Memories

Part 1: Introduction & Interview

• Question: Can you tell me about your childhood?

  • Sample Answer: “I had a very happy childhood. I grew up in a small town where I spent most of my time playing outdoors with my friends and exploring nature. My parents always encouraged me to be adventurous and imaginative, which shaped who I am today.”

• Question: What’s your earliest childhood memory?

  • Sample Answer: “One of my earliest memories is when I was about four years old, and my family took a trip to the beach. I remember the feeling of the sand between my toes and the excitement of building sandcastles with my siblings.”

Part 2: Long Turn

• Question: Describe a memorable childhood experience. You should say:

  • What the experience was

  • When it happened

  • Why it was memorable

  • Sample Answer:
    “One of my most memorable childhood experiences was when my family went camping in the mountains. It was the first time I had ever slept in a tent, and I remember feeling both excited and nervous. We spent the days hiking and exploring the woods, and at night, we told stories around the campfire. It was a magical experience that gave me a deep appreciation for nature.”

Part 3: Discussion

• Question: Do you think childhood memories influence our adult lives?

  • Sample Answer: “I believe our childhood experiences play a significant role in shaping who we become as adults. For example, children who grow up in a supportive environment tend to be more confident and self-assured later in life. On the other hand, difficult childhoods can leave lasting psychological impacts.”

• Question: How is childhood today different from when you were a child?

  • Sample Answer: “Childhood today is vastly different due to technology. When I was a child, we spent most of our time playing outside, but now, children are often glued to screens. While technology has its benefits, such as educational content, it also limits the imagination and physical activity that we enjoyed growing up.”

 

4. Shopping & Spending Habits Vocabulary and Structures

Advanced Vocabulary to Use:

• Shopping-related Terms: consumerism, materialism, splurge, bargain, retail therapy, impulse buying, frugal.
• Describing Spending Habits: budget-conscious, overspend, accumulate, save, financial responsibility, thrift store.

Grammatical Structures:

• Discussing Spending Habits:
  • “I tend to be quite frugal, and I always compare prices before making any purchases.”
• Explaining Shopping Preferences:
  • "I prefer online shopping because it allows me to find good deals and avoid crowds."

Example Sentences:

• "I have a habit of splurging on clothes, especially when I’m stressed, which is why I often use retail therapy as a way to cope with emotions."
• "In contrast to my impulsive shopping habits in the past, I’m now more budget-conscious and try to save for bigger purchases."

 

Sample Questions and Answers for Shopping & Spending Habits

Part 1: Introduction & Interview

• Question: How often do you go shopping?

  • Sample Answer: “I usually go shopping about once a week. I try to stick to a budget, but I sometimes splurge on clothes or gadgets that I don’t really need.”

• Question: Do you prefer shopping in stores or online?

  • Sample Answer: “I prefer shopping online because it’s more convenient. I can compare prices easily and find better deals without having to deal with crowds.”

Part 2: Long Turn

• Question: Describe a time when you bought something you didn’t need. You should say:

  • What you bought

  • Why you bought it

  • How you felt afterward

  • Sample Answer:
    “A few months ago, I bought a new smartwatch even though I already had a perfectly good one. I was impulse buying because I had seen a good deal online, and I thought it would be nice to have the latest model. However, after a few days, I realized I didn’t actually need it, and I felt a bit guilty for overspending on something unnecessary.”

Part 3: Discussion

• Question: How has consumer behavior changed in recent years?

  • Sample Answer: “Consumer behavior has changed dramatically with the rise of e-commerce and online shopping. People now have access to global markets and can buy products from anywhere in the world. Additionally, social media has influenced buying habits by constantly advertising new trends and products, which has led to more impulse purchases.”

• Question: Do you think people spend too much money on material goods?

  • Sample Answer: “I think in many cases, yes. Consumerism has become a huge part of modern culture, and people often overspend on luxury items or things they don’t necessarily need. This is partly due to advertising and the constant pressure to keep up with trends. However, I believe people are becoming more aware of the importance of financial responsibility and saving for the future.”

 

5. Technology in Daily Life Vocabulary and Structures

Advanced Vocabulary to Use:

• Technology-related Terms: digital age, innovation, technological advancement, artificial intelligence, automation, virtual reality.
• Describing Use of Technology: rely on, streamline, optimize, integrate, upgrade, tech-savvy, connectivity.

Grammatical Structures:

• Discussing Technological Changes:
  • “The digital age has brought about remarkable innovations, from artificial intelligence to smart homes, all of which have made life more convenient.”
• Explaining the Impact of Technology:
  • "We now rely heavily on technology to streamline daily tasks, from managing schedules to keeping in touch with family and friends."

Example Sentences:

• "Technology has revolutionized the way we communicate and work, making it easier to stay connected no matter where we are."
• "With automation and artificial intelligence becoming more integrated into the workplace, I think we’ll see even more technological advancements in the future."

 

Sample Questions and Answers for Technology in Daily Life

Part 1: Introduction & Interview

• Question: What kind of technology do you use on a daily basis?

  • Sample Answer: “I use several forms of technology daily, including my smartphone and laptop. I rely on them for both work and communication. For example, I use my phone to check emails, browse social media, and manage my schedule.”

• Question: How has technology improved your life?

  • Sample Answer: “Technology has made my life much more convenient. For instance, I can now work remotely and stay in touch with colleagues from different time zones. It has also made shopping and banking much easier through online services.”

Part 2: Long Turn

• Question: Describe a piece of technology that you find useful. You should say:

  • What the technology is

  • How you use it

  • Why it is important to you

  • Sample Answer:
    “One piece of technology I find incredibly useful is my smartphone. I use it for a variety of tasks, from checking emails to managing my schedule and staying in touch with friends and family. It’s important to me because it helps me stay organized and allows me to work from anywhere. Additionally, it’s a great tool for entertainment, as I can listen to music, watch videos, and even read books on it.”

Part 3: Discussion

• Question: What are the downsides of relying too much on technology?

  • Sample Answer: “One major downside is that it can make us overly dependent on technology for even the simplest tasks, like remembering appointments or communicating with others. It can also lead to social isolation, as people may prefer to communicate virtually rather than meeting face-to-face. Additionally, overuse of technology can cause health issues, such as eye strain and sedentary lifestyles.”

• Question: How do you think technology will change the way we live in the future?

  • Sample Answer: “I think technology will continue to transform our lives in many ways. For instance, artificial intelligence and automation are likely to revolutionize industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, and education. We may also see more integration of technology into our homes and cities, making them more efficient and sustainable.”

 

Part 3: Speaking Practice

Paired Practice in Breakout Rooms

Activity: Pair up and choose one of the five topics from today. Take turns discussing the topic for 3-4 minutes each. Focus on:

• Using advanced vocabulary and grammatical structures
• Expanding your answers with examples and explanations

Prompts to Practice:

• Friends & Social Life: Do you think it’s important to have a lot of friends, or just a few close ones?
• Health & Wellness: How do you manage stress in your daily life?
• Childhood & Memories: What activities did you enjoy doing as a child?
• Shopping & Spending Habits: How do you decide what to spend money on?
• Technology in Daily Life: Do you think technology has made life more stressful or less stressful?

Rotating Breakout Rooms

After finishing with your first partner, rotate to a new partner and discuss a different topic. This will give you the chance to practice on multiple topics and get varied feedback.

 

Part 4: Group Feedback & Instructor Tips

Peer Feedback

After practicing, come back to the main group and give your partner feedback. Focus on:

• Vocabulary variety
• Fluency and coherence
• Pronunciation and grammatical accuracy

Instructor Tips

Listen to feedback from the instructor, who will highlight common mistakes and suggest areas for improvement, such as using more advanced vocabulary or structuring answers more effectively.

 

Part 5: Homework & Self-Practice

Homework Task

Choose one of the topics from today (Friends, Health, Childhood, Shopping, or Technology). Record yourself speaking on the topic for 2-3 minutes. Then listen to your recording and evaluate yourself based on:

• Fluency: Did you speak without too many pauses?
• Vocabulary: Did you use a variety of words and phrases?
• Structure: Was your answer clear and well-organized?

 

Looking Ahead to Lesson 4

In our next lesson, we’ll explore even more advanced topics, such as Environment & Sustainability, Social Issues, and Festivals & Traditions, as well as continue developing your speaking skills. Keep practicing and see you next time!