IELTS Speaking – Part 1
Task Description
What happens in this part?
In this part, the examiner introduces him/herself and checks the candidate’s identity. Then s/he asks the candidate about familiar topics such as friends, hobbies or food. To ensure consistency, questions are taken from a scripted examiner frame.
How long does it last?
4 – 5 minutes.
What skill is being assessed?
The candidate’s ability to communicate opinions and information on everyday topics and common experiences or situations by answering a range of questions.
Understanding the Task
To understand better how students should approach this task, it may help you to do the activity yourself first and analyse what you have done and what you needed to know to do it.
You can ask a fellow teacher or friend to act the role of the examiner, or you can do both parts yourself. Record the interaction on tape so you can go back and listen to what you said and how you said it.
Look at these sample Part 1 Speaking prompts.
Sample
Part 1 Prompts (PDF)
Recording
Transcript
(PDF)
Things to consider
Now look at these questions about how you approached the task and consider your answers.
- What is the candidate expected to do in this part?
- What kinds of topics are likely to be included?
- What language areas/functions is the candidate likely to need?
- How long should the candidate’s answers be?
