IELTS Speaking Samples and Answers
Speaking Part 3 - Details discussion (Part 8)
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Speaking Part 3 - Details discussion/ Two-way discussion
IELTS Speaking Part 3 topics:
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More Resource: Useful Expressions to use in IELTS Speaking part 3
Topics: 1. Reasons for daily travel & Benefits of international travel. 2. How values can change, The consumer society & The consumer market. 3. Purpose of festivals and celebrations & Festivals and the media. 4. The social benefits of hobbies & Leisure time.
IELTS Speaking Part 3 topic: Reasons for daily travel & Benefits of international travel.
[Discussion topic: Reasons for daily travel]
Q. Why do people need to travel every day?
Q. What problems can people have when they are on their daily journey, for example, to work or school? Why is this?
Q. Some people say that daily journeys like these will not be so common in the future. Do you agree or disagree? Why?
[Discussion topic: Benefits of international travel]
Q. What do you think people can learn from travelling to other countries? Why?
Q. Can travel make a positive difference to the economy of a country? How?
Q. Do you think a society can benefit if its members have experience of travelling to other countries? In what ways?
[Topic: Reasons for daily travel]
Q. Why do people need to travel every day?
Answer: In my opinion, people need to travel every day primarily for work, school, and other personal commitments. For instance, many people live in suburbs or rural areas but work or study in cities, requiring them to commute daily. Urbanisation has made it common for people to live away from their workplaces and schools leading to a reliance on transportation for daily travel. Additionally, people may need to travel for other reasons, such as running errands, attending meetings, or socialising. In modern societies, where time is often structured around work or study, daily travel has become a necessity to ensure people fulfil their professional, educational and personal responsibilities.
Q. What problems can people have when they are on their daily journey, for example, to work or school? Why is this?
Answer: There are several issues people commonly face during their daily journeys. One major problem is traffic congestion, especially in large cities, where roads can be crowded during rush hour, causing delays and frustration. For example, in cities like London, New Delhi and Dhaka, commuters often spend hours stuck in traffic, which can affect their productivity and stress levels. Public transport can also be unreliable or overcrowded, making it uncomfortable and time-consuming. Additionally, weather conditions, such as rain or snow, can disrupt travel plans and make commuting more difficult. These issues are primarily due to inadequate infrastructure, rapid population growth, and a lack of efficient public transport systems in some cities.
Q. Some people say that daily journeys like these will not be so common in the future. Do you agree or disagree? Why?
Answer: I agree that daily journeys may become less common in the future, primarily due to advancements in technology and changing work patterns. The rise of remote working, accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, has shown that many jobs can be done from home, reducing the need for daily commuting. For example, companies like Google and Microsoft now offer employees the option to work from home permanently, which decreases the need for regular travel. Moreover, innovations like virtual meetings, teleconferencing, and virtual reality could further reduce the need for in-person attendance at work or school. While commuting will still be necessary for some people, I believe the overall frequency will decrease as more flexible and technology-driven solutions become available.
[Topic: Consumerism and society]
Q. What do you think people can learn from travelling to other countries? Why?
Answer: Travelling to other countries, in my opinion, offers invaluable opportunities for learning and personal growth. People can gain exposure to different cultures, languages, and ways of life, which helps foster a deeper understanding of the world. For instance, a person travelling to Japan might learn about the country’s unique customs, etiquette, and history, broadening their perspective on global diversity. Additionally, travel often challenges people to step out of their comfort zones, teaching them problem-solving skills, adaptability, and how to navigate unfamiliar environments. In this way, international travel can cultivate empathy and open-mindedness, helping individuals appreciate cultural differences and contribute to more harmonious global interactions.
Q. Can travel make a positive difference to the economy of a country? How?
Answer: Yes, I believe that travel can make a significant positive difference to a country’s economy, particularly through the tourism industry. When people travel to a country, they spend money on accommodation, food, entertainment, and transportation, all of which generate revenue for local businesses. For example, tourists visiting a country may stay in hotels, dine in local restaurants, and participate in tours or cultural activities, stimulating economic activity in various sectors. In addition, tourism creates jobs in industries such as hospitality, transportation, and retail, boosting employment. Countries with strong tourism sectors can also benefit from increased international trade and investment, as exposure to different cultures and markets opens up opportunities for business partnerships and collaborations.
Q. Do you think a society can benefit if its members have experience of travelling to other countries? In what ways?
Answer: Yes, I do believe that a society can greatly benefit from having members with international travel experience. When people travel abroad, they gain broader perspectives and develop cultural awareness, which can lead to a more tolerant and inclusive society. For example, someone who has travelled to multiple countries may return with a deeper appreciation for diverse cultures, reducing stereotypes and fostering understanding. Moreover, individuals with international exposure are often more open to collaboration and innovation, as they have experienced different approaches to problem-solving, education, and work. On a societal level, travel can also promote global connections, trade, and diplomacy, as people who have travelled abroad are more likely to support international cooperation and exchange.
IELTS Speaking Part 3 topic: How values can change, The consumer society & The consumer market.
[Discussion topic: How values can change]
Q. What kind of possessions show status in your country?
Q. Do you think it was different for your grandparents?
[Discussion topic: The consumer society]
Q. Modern society is often called ‘materialistic’. Why do you think this is?
Q. Do you think consumerism is a positive or a negative development?
[Discussion topic: The consumer market]
Q. What is the role of advertising?
Q. How do you think the Internet will affect buying patterns in the future?
[Topic: How values can change]
Q. What kind of possessions show status in your country?
Answer: In my country, possessions such as luxury cars, high-end fashion brands, and large properties are often seen as indicators of status. For example, owning a luxury car like a BMW or a Mercedes is commonly associated with wealth and success. Similarly, people who wear designer clothing or accessories, such as those from Gucci or Louis Vuitton, are often perceived as being part of the elite social class. Additionally, large homes in affluent neighbourhoods are considered a sign of financial prosperity and success.
Q. Do you think it was different for your grandparents?
Answer: Yes, I believe the way possessions showed status was quite different for my grandparents. In the past, status was more closely tied to simpler, more practical possessions, such as owning land, a sturdy home, or a good job in the community. For example, a farmer with a piece of land or someone with a steady government job was seen as prosperous. It wasn’t necessarily about owning expensive items but more about stability and self-sufficiency. Today, however, status is often associated with material wealth and the display of luxury, which was not as prominent in my grandparents' time. The focus was more on character, work ethic, and contributions to society rather than outward displays of affluence.
[Topic: The consumer society]
Q. Modern society is often called ‘materialistic’. Why do you think this is?
Answer: Modern society is often referred to as materialistic because there is an overwhelming emphasis on acquiring possessions and achieving a certain lifestyle through material goods. For instance, advertising constantly bombards us with messages that equate happiness with owning the latest gadgets, clothing, or cars. Social media platforms also amplify this materialistic mindset, as people often showcase their wealth and possessions to gain social validation. This constant exposure to consumer culture leads individuals to believe that owning more things will bring happiness or status. A prime example is the smartphone market, where people are encouraged to upgrade their devices every year, even though the previous model may still work perfectly fine. This relentless pursuit of material goods reflects the materialistic nature of modern society.
Q. Do you think consumerism is a positive or a negative development?
Answer: I believe that consumerism has both positive and negative aspects, but overall, its impact tends to lean more toward the negative. On the positive side, consumerism drives economic growth by encouraging people to spend money on goods and services, which creates jobs and stimulates innovation. For example, the rise of e-commerce platforms like Amazon has not only transformed the way people shop but has also created thousands of jobs worldwide. However, the negative side of consumerism includes environmental degradation due to overproduction and waste, as well as the mental health effects of constantly striving for material goods. Many people fall into the trap of associating their self-worth with the things they own, leading to stress and dissatisfaction.
[Topic: The consumer market]
Q. What is the role of advertising?
Answer: Advertising plays a critical role in the consumer market by influencing people’s purchasing decisions and shaping their desires. It creates awareness about products or services and highlights their features, often making them seem essential or desirable. Through various forms of media, such as TV, social media, and billboards, advertising targets consumers' emotions, using strategies like aspiration, fear, or convenience to motivate purchases. For example, a commercial for a luxury car often shows the vehicle in glamorous settings, implying that owning the car will elevate the consumer’s status. Advertising not only informs consumers but also creates trends and dictates what is considered fashionable or desirable, driving demand in the market.
Q. How do you think the Internet will affect buying patterns in the future?
Answer: The Internet is already significantly changing buying patterns, and its influence will continue to grow in the future. E-commerce platforms like Amazon, Alibaba, and Etsy have revolutionized the way people shop, making it easier for consumers to purchase products from the comfort of their own homes. In the future, I believe this trend will accelerate with the rise of artificial intelligence and virtual reality. For instance, AI-powered recommendation systems will suggest products based on users' past purchases and preferences, making the shopping experience even more personalized. Virtual reality could also enable consumers to try on clothes or visualize furniture in their homes before making a purchase. Additionally, the growth of online marketplaces and direct-to-consumer models means that people will increasingly bypass traditional retail stores, which may lead to a decline in physical shopping centers.
IELTS Speaking Part 3 topic: Purpose of festivals and celebrations & Festivals and the media.
[Discussion topic: Purpose of festivals and celebrations]
Q. Why do you think festivals are important events in the working year?
Q. Would you agree that the original significance of festivals is often lost today? Is it good or bad, do you think?
Q. Do you think that new festivals will be introduced in the future? What kind?
[Discussion topic: Festivals and the media]
Q. What role does the media play in festivals, do you think?
Q. Do you think it's good or bad to watch festivals on TV? Why?
Q. How may globalisation affect different festivals around the world?
[Topic: Purpose of festivals and celebrations]
Q. Why do you think festivals are important events in the working year?
Answer: Festivals are important events in the working year because they provide people with an opportunity to relax, celebrate, and reconnect with their cultural or religious traditions. These events offer a much-needed break from the demands of daily life, allowing individuals to unwind and recharge. For example, in many cultures, festivals like Christmas, Eid or Diwali offer a chance for families and friends to come together, strengthening social bonds and promoting community cohesion. Moreover, festivals often provide a sense of identity and belonging, as they are deeply rooted in history, religion and cultural practices. They also stimulate the economy by encouraging tourism, hospitality, and retail sectors, making them a vital part of both social and economic life.
Q. Would you agree that the original significance of festivals is often lost today? Is it good or bad, do you think?
Answer: I would agree that the original significance of many festivals is often diluted in modern times, primarily due to commercialisation and changing societal values. For example, Christmas, originally a religious holiday, is now heavily commercialised, with a focus on consumerism rather than its spiritual meaning. This shift can be seen as both positive and negative. On the one hand, the commercialisation of festivals makes them more accessible to a wider audience, and provides opportunities for people to participate, even if they don’t adhere to the original cultural or religious traditions. On the other hand, this shift can lead to the loss of the deeper cultural and spiritual meanings that these festivals once held.
Q. Do you think that new festivals will be introduced in the future? What kind?
Answer: Yes, I believe that new festivals will emerge in the future, especially as global trends, technological advancements, and changing cultural dynamics continue to shape society. For example, with the rise of digital culture and social media, we may see festivals centered around online communities, digital achievements, or virtual experiences. Events like “World Internet Day” or “Digital Wellness Week” could become popular, celebrating advancements in technology or raising awareness about digital well-being. Similarly, as global issues like climate change gain more prominence, environmental festivals or Earth Day celebrations could evolve into more significant global events aimed at promoting sustainability and raising awareness about environmental conservation.
[Topic: Festivals and the media]
Q. What role does the media play in festivals, do you think?
Answer: The media plays a significant role in shaping how festivals are celebrated and experienced. Through television, social media, and online platforms, festivals are broadcast to a global audience, allowing people from different parts of the world to experience these events, even if they can’t participate in person. For example, events like the Rio Carnival in Brazil or the Chinese New Year celebrations are live-streamed and shared worldwide, enabling people to experience the joy and vibrancy of these festivals remotely. Media coverage also amplifies the cultural significance of festivals, making them more accessible to a broader audience and often helping to preserve and promote cultural traditions. However, the media can also influence the commercialisation of festivals, focusing more on the entertainment and consumer aspects rather than the cultural or spiritual roots of the event.
Q. Do you think it's good or bad to watch festivals on TV? Why?
Answer: Watching festivals on TV can be both good and bad, depending on how the experience is perceived. On the positive side, watching festivals on TV allows people who may not be able to attend in person to enjoy the cultural celebrations, fostering global understanding and appreciation for different traditions. However, watching festivals on TV can also diminish the immersive experience of attending them in person. Being physically present at a festival allows individuals to engage with the atmosphere, interact with others, and fully appreciate the cultural richness, which cannot be replicated through a screen. Therefore, while TV coverage of festivals is valuable for sharing cultural experiences, it can’t replace the depth and connection felt when participating directly.
Q. How may globalization affect different festivals around the world?
Answer: Globalization is likely to have a profound impact on festivals worldwide, both in terms of how they are celebrated and how their meanings are perceived. On the one hand, globalization fosters cross-cultural exchanges, allowing festivals from different countries to be celebrated in new locations. For example, Halloween, originally a Western tradition, is now widely celebrated in many countries, including Japan and South Korea. This can lead to a greater sense of cultural diversity and global understanding. However, globalization may also lead to the commercialization and standardization of festivals, as elements of local traditions are adapted to cater to a global audience. For instance, traditional festivals might incorporate globalized elements, such as international food stalls or Western-style entertainment, which could dilute the original cultural meaning.
IELTS Speaking Part 3 topic: The social benefits of hobbies & Leisure time.
[Discussion topic: The social benefits of hobbies]
Q. Do you think having a hobby is good for people’s social life? In what way?
Q. Are there any negative effects of a person spending too much time on their hobby? What are they?
Q. Why do you think people need to have an interest or hobby?
[Discussion topic: Leisure time]
Q. In your country, how much time do people spend on work and how much time on leisure? Is this a good balance, do you think?
Q. Would you say the amount of free time has changed much in the last fifty years?
Q. Do you think people will have 'more' or 'less' free time in the future? Why?
[Topic: The social benefits of hobbies]
Q. Do you think having a hobby is good for people’s social life? In what way?
Answer: Yes, I believe that having a hobby is highly beneficial for a person’s social life. Engaging in a hobby often leads to meeting like-minded individuals, which can result in the formation of strong friendships and social connections. For instance, joining a sports team or a book club creates a sense of community, as participants share common interests and engage in regular interactions. These social bonds can also extend beyond the activity itself, leading to personal friendships and support networks. Additionally, hobbies can provide a platform for people to communicate, share experiences, and collaborate, which enriches their social life and enhances their overall well-being. For example, people who play chess regularly often find themselves part of a close-knit group where they can engage in stimulating conversations and build lasting relationships.
Q. Are there any negative effects of a person spending too much time on their hobby? What are they?
Answer: While hobbies can be highly beneficial, spending too much time on them, in my opinion, can have negative effects. One potential issue is the risk of neglecting other important areas of life, such as work, family, or health. For example, if someone spends excessive time playing video games or engaging in their hobby at the expense of their job, it can lead to professional setbacks and stress. Similarly, focusing too much on a hobby can cause isolation, as individuals may prioritise it over socialising with family and friends. In some cases, hobbies can even become obsessive, leading to physical health problems like eye strain from too much screen time or fatigue from overexertion in sports. Therefore, I believe that it is important to maintain a balanced approach to hobbies, ensuring that they enhance, rather than detract from, other aspects of life.
Q. Why do you think people need to have an interest or hobby?
Answer: In my opinion, people need to have an interest or hobby because it provides a sense of purpose, relaxation, and mental stimulation. Hobbies offer an outlet for stress and allow individuals to disconnect from the pressures of daily life, which is crucial for mental health. For example, painting or gardening can be meditative and help people unwind after a long day of work. Hobbies also offer a chance for personal development, as individuals can acquire new skills, explore creative outlets, or pursue passions they otherwise wouldn’t have time for. Furthermore, having a hobby fosters a sense of accomplishment, as mastering a skill or completing a project can provide a sense of pride and fulfilment. Ultimately, hobbies contribute to a more balanced and fulfilling life, helping individuals maintain their physical and emotional well-being.
[Topic: Leisure time]
Q. In your country, how much time do people spend on work and how much time on leisure? Is this a good balance, do you think?
Answer: In my country, people generally spend a significant amount of time working, especially in urban areas where the cost of living is high and the pressure to maintain a stable income is prevalent. On average, people work about 45 to 55 hours a week. In contrast, leisure time is often limited, with many individuals using weekends or public holidays to relax and recharge. However, the balance between work and leisure tends to vary depending on the profession. For example, employees in demanding fields like finance or law may work longer hours, leaving them with little time for leisure activities. I believe that the balance is not ideal in many cases, as people often prioritise work over personal time.
Q. Would you say the amount of free time has changed much in the last fifty years?
Answer: Yes, I tend to believe that the amount of free time has changed significantly in the last fifty years, largely due to shifts in work culture and societal expectations. Fifty years ago, as I have heard and read, people typically had more free time, particularly in terms of working hours, as the 9-to-5 workday was more common, and the concept of overtime was less prevalent. However, with the rise of technology, particularly mobile devices and the internet, the boundaries between work and personal life have become more blurred. Today, many people are expected to remain connected to work outside of regular hours, through emails or phone calls, which reduces their overall leisure time. Additionally, the increase in the cost of living in many places has caused people to work longer hours or take on additional jobs, leaving less time for relaxation. As a result, while work hours may have technically decreased in some sectors, the pressures and distractions that accompany modern life have reduced the amount of true leisure time available.
Q. Do you think people will have 'more' or 'less' free time in the future? Why?
Answer: I believe people will likely have more free time in the future, largely due to technological advancements and changes in work culture. As automation, artificial intelligence, and remote working continue to evolve, people may find themselves with more efficient work processes and greater flexibility in how they allocate their time. For instance, the rise of telecommuting and flexible work hours will likely give individuals more control over their schedules, allowing them to spend less time commuting and more time at home or engaging in personal activities. Moreover, as technology continues to take over repetitive and time-consuming tasks, people will have more time for creative pursuits or leisure. However, this depends on how society adapts to these changes and whether work-life balance becomes a priority in future policies and corporate structures. While there are challenges to overcome, such as ensuring equitable access to these benefits, I believe that the trend toward greater leisure time is a possibility for the future.
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