IELTS Speaking – Part 2

Task Description

What happens in this part?
This is the long turn section. The examiner gives the candidate a task card, and a pencil and some paper to make notes.

The task card gives the topic, some points to include in the long turn and a final prompt asking the candidate to explain one aspect of the topic. Using the prompts on the task card effectively will help the candidate think of appropriate things to say, organise what s/he says, and keep talking for 2 minutes. Making notes during the preparation time also helps the candidate structure the long turn. The candidate has a minute to prepare, after which the examiner asks him/her to speak about the topic for 1 to 2 minutes. Then the examiner stops the candidate after 2 minutes, and asks one or two questions to round off the long turn.

How long does it last?
3 – 4 minutes, including the preparation time.

What skill is being assessed?
The candidate’s ability to speak at length on a given topic (without further prompts from the examiner), using appropriate language and organising his/her ideas coherently. It is likely that the candidate will need to draw on his/her own experience to complete the long turn.

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 this sample Part 2 Speaking Task.

Sample Part 2 Task (PDF)
Recording
Transcript

Things to consider

Now look at these questions about how you approached the task and consider your answers.

1. How long is the candidate expected to speak for?
   
   
2. Does the candidate need to make notes?
   
   
3. Does the candidate need to talk about the points on the task card?
   
   
4. Should the candidate start speaking as soon as they receive the task card?
   
   
5. Should the candidate worry if the examiner interrupts them?
   
   
6. Will the examiner make comments during the long turn?
   
   
7. Does the candidate need to be able to speak on a wide range of topics?
   
   
8. Are Part 2 topics always about present-day situations?