IELTS Speaking: Task 3 -The Discussion
In part 3, you will be asked to answer a range of questions based on the topic from part 2
*****REMEMBER:
If you’re not sure of a question, ask the examiner to repeat it. – no penalty (examiners are told there is no penalty if a client asks for repetition of a prompt)
If you don’t know the meaning of the word, ask the examiner to explain it. – no penalty (examiners are told there is no penalty if a client asks for clarity)
In part 3, You will either answer from experience or opinion
Expand your answers with explanations and examples –
3-4 sentence answers
TRY TO MOVE FROM …OPINION…TO REASON…TO AN EXAMPLE
For example: (Notice how the answers are ALWAYS split into 2 sides!!)
What is the importance of travel?
Travel is important for several reasons. One, it is education because you notice the differences from one country to your own country. Also, it is culturally important because you get to see or take part in customs and maybe traditions completely different from your own country.
What types of people enjoy traveling?
I think the old and the young. The old because they might not have had a chance to travel during their lifetime, and the young because they can travel and meet people their own age to go with them to different places.
Is working overseas an easy option?
I think yes, it can be but also no, as it can be a negative experience. If you are young, you enjoy the extra money and the travel and all the differences, but if you are old, you might like the local food and only wish to be home with your family.
Other Helpful Tips:
- Use filler expressions
Do you think schools should teach more discipline?
A: That’s an interesting question. Actually, in the past, this was the role of schools. Nowadays, schools have less power to discipline students. In my opinion, discipline doesn’t work. I think education has to be more interactive and engaging. If students enjoy school, then there will be less need for discipline.
2. Give balanced answers to questions (pros and cons)
Q: How do you think technology will affect education in the future?
A: I think technology will have both positive and negative effects on education. On the positive side, it will prepare students for the real world, as the world is becoming more digitized. On the flip side, the negative effects could be the loss of traditional skills such as handwriting which can be considered a type of art form.
3. Support your opinions with more than one reason
Q: What do you think governments can do to improve the environment?
A: I think there are a few things the government can do. One is to improve public transport. With better transport, people will have less reason to use cars, and this will minimize pollution. Another thing is encouraging people to use alternative sources of energy. They can do this by funding solar and wind power for example.
4. Think aloud rather than be silent
Q: What do you think would happen if extra-terrestrials landed on Earth?
A: You mean aliens? Well, I suppose it’s possible, isn’t it? It reminds me of a sci-fi movie. If it did, I’d hope they were friendly! Maybe they could teach us something like a new language, or new technologies.