IELTS Speaking Part 3: The IELTS Speaking section is divided into three parts, with Part 3 considered the most difficult due to direct face-to-face interaction in presence of an IELTS examiner. It takes place immediately after Part 2 and typically lasts 4–5 minutes. This section assesses a candidate’s ability to speak about abstract ideas, give opinions, and justify their answers clearly and logically. Understanding the nature of Part 3 and preparing accordingly can significantly enhance your performance.
IELTS Speaking Band Descriptors
In IELTS Speaking Part 3, the examiner will ask you follow-up questions related to the topic you spoke about in Part 2. The aim is to engage you in a more detailed and analytical discussion. In various topics, such as social trends, cultural practices, education, the environment, and global issues.
Candidates are expected to show a high level of spoken English proficiency, including the use of formal vocabulary, complex sentence structures, and coherent argumentation.
Format of IELTS Speaking Part 3
Duration: 4 to 5 minutes
Nature of Questions: Open-ended, analytical, and opinion-based
Interaction: Two-way discussion with the examiner
Skills Tested: Fluency, coherence, lexical resource, grammatical range and accuracy, and pronunciation
IELTS Speaking Part 3 questions are grouped into categories that reflect a candidate’s ability to think critically and express their views. The following are common types of questions:
Opinion-Based Questions
Comparative Questions
Cause and Effect Questions
Hypothetical Questions
Evaluative Questions
IELTS Speaking Part 1 | IELTS Speaking Part 2 |
Success in Part 3 relies not just on what you say, but how you say it. Below are some strategies that can help improve your performance:
Expand Your Ideas: Avoid short answers. Use examples, reasons, and personal insight to develop your response.
Use Linking Devices: To ensure coherence and logical flow, use discourse markers such as:
In my opinion…
For example…
However…
On the other hand…
As a result…
Stay on Topic: While expanding your answer is encouraged, avoid going off-topic. Stick to the main question and keep your response structured.
Use a Range of Grammar and Vocabulary: Use a mix of complex sentences, passive voice, and varied vocabulary. Avoid repetition and strive for natural yet precise word choices.
Don’t Memorize Answers: Examiners can easily identify memorized responses. Instead, focus on practicing speaking naturally about various topics.
Tips for IELTS Video Call Speaking Test
The IELTS Speaking Part 3 covers a diverse range of topics based on the IELTS cue card from the Speaking Part 2. Here’s a list of some frequently asked IELTS Speaking Part 3 Topics for the test.
Common IELTS Speaking Part 3 Topics |
|
---|---|
Advertising |
Nature |
Art |
Photography |
Books |
Punctuality |
Business |
Socialising |
Celebrities |
Society |
Clothes |
Toys |
Culture |
Transportation |
Decision making |
Travel |
Education |
Weather |
Environment |
Work |
Family |
Food |
Language |
Health |
Leadership |
Internet |
Media & News |
Movies |
Here are some important IELTS Speaking Part 3 topics with sample questions and model answers.
Topic: Education
Question: How important is education in today’s society?
Sample Answer: Education is crucial as it equips individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary for personal and professional development. It also fosters critical thinking and helps build informed societies.
Topic: Environment
Question: What are the main environmental issues today?
Sample Answer: Major environmental issues include climate change, pollution, and deforestation. These problems threaten biodiversity and can have severe consequences for human health and well-being.
Topic: Health
Question: How can people maintain a healthy lifestyle?
Sample Answer: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle involves regular exercise, a balanced diet, and mental well-being. Incorporating physical activity into daily routines and making conscious food choices are essential.
IELTS Speaking Part 1 Tips | IELTS Speaking Part 2 Tips | IELTS Speaking Part 3 Tips |
Follow the below-mentioned preparation tips for IELTS Speaking Part 3:
Practice Speaking Regularly: Consistent speaking practice helps improve fluency and reduces hesitation. Try speaking about random topics for 4–5 minutes at a stretch.
Record and Review: Recording your answers and listening back can help you identify areas of improvement in grammar, pronunciation, and vocabulary.
Read and Reflect: Reading newspapers and editorials to build vocabulary for supporting arguments during the test.
Participate in Discussions: Joining English-speaking groups or clubs can boost your confidence and help you articulate your thoughts more clearly in real-time conversation.
Physics Wallah offers multiple online IELTS courses for all students. Follow the IELTS pages to better prepare for the exam.
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