Cambridge IELTS 20 | Speaking Module Free Sample Answers & Explanations (coming soon)

Cambridge IELTS 19 Speaking Module

To respect copyright laws, I cannot provide the exact questions from the IELTS Speaking section. Instead, I have modified them while keeping the original topics and ideas intact. This approach allows me to maintain the spirit of the content while presenting it in my own unique way. These questions reflect a VERY similar structure and focus. Fortunately, generic questions about food or colleges aren’t something Cambridge can patent or issue copyright takedowns against!

By rephrasing the questions, I ensure that we do not infringe on copyright laws while still providing practice material that closely resembles the actual test questions and topics. This allows learners to engage with familiar themes effectively as they prepare for the exam.

IELTS 19 Free Speaking Samples

The following responses have been generated by an AI system to assist with IELTS speaking practice. They showcase a variety of vocabulary and grammatical complexity across both high-level and low-level answers. While the clarity and pronunciation are consistent in the AI-generated responses, they may not accurately reflect how a real student would respond in a test setting.

It’s important to recognize that actual student responses can vary significantly in delivery. Low-level and mid-level answers from real candidates often exhibit speech patterns that are either too fast or too slow, and they may lack the dynamic intonation found in natural conversation. Effective communication relies on varied rhythm and emphasis, which can greatly influence the impression made on examiners.

I also offer professional coaching sessions and mock sessions for the speaking module, helping students improve their delivery, pronunciation, and overall speaking skills to better prepare for the test.

IELTS 19 Speaking: Test 1

Test 1, Part 1

Question: Have you traveled a lot by train? (Why/Why not?)

High-Level Answer (Band 9)

“Yes, I’ve had quite a few train journeys, particularly when exploring different regions in Europe and Asia. I find train travel fascinating because it allows me to appreciate landscapes up close, which you can’t experience from an airplane. Besides, trains offer a sense of freedom to move around, which makes long-distance travel more comfortable.”

Reasoning: This response is detailed, expressing personal experience and specific preferences with varied vocabulary like “fascinating” and “freedom to move around.” The response flows smoothly without hesitation, showing high fluency and lexical resource.

Mid-Low Level Answer (Band 5-6)

“Yes, I have traveled by train, but not very often. I think it’s nice because you can see things out the window, but it can be slow. Usually, I prefer to fly if it’s far because it’s faster.”

Reasoning: This response is simpler, with basic sentence structures. It’s more repetitive and lacks the advanced vocabulary of the high-level response, using basic adjectives like “nice” and “fast.” There’s also less detail about personal preferences or specific examples.

Question: Why do you think many people enjoy traveling by train? (Why/Why not?)

High-Level Answer (Band 9)

“I believe many people enjoy train journeys because they’re generally more relaxing than other forms of travel. Unlike driving, where you have to concentrate, trains let you read, work, or just unwind while enjoying the scenery. Additionally, train stations are often conveniently located in city centers, making the experience even more accessible and enjoyable.”

Reasoning: This response shows complex reasoning, with transitions that help fluency (“unlike driving”), and a wide range of vocabulary, including “relaxing,” “concentrate,” and “accessible.” It uses comparison effectively and expands on the answer thoughtfully.

Mid-Low Level Answer (Band 5-6)

“Many people like trains because they don’t have to drive. They can look out the window or maybe read a book. I think it’s more comfortable than a car for long trips.”

Reasoning: The response is clear but limited in vocabulary and expression, using simpler language (“like,” “comfortable”). It lacks a wide range of sentence structures, and ideas aren’t expanded as fully as in the high-level response.

Question: Would you like to live near a train station? (Why/Why not?)

High-Level Answer (Band 9)

“Actually, I think I would enjoy living near a train station, primarily because it would be incredibly convenient. I tend to travel frequently for work and leisure, so having quick access to a transport hub would save me time. Of course, the noise might be a concern, but the convenience could outweigh that downside.”

Reasoning: This response includes specific reasons with well-chosen vocabulary, like “incredibly convenient,” “quick access,” and “transport hub.” There’s a balanced perspective with pros and cons, demonstrating coherence and effective language use.

Mid-Low Level Answer (Band 5-6)

“Yes, I think it would be good because I could take the train easily. But maybe the noise would be annoying. It could make it easier for me to travel.”

Reasoning: This answer is simpler, with straightforward vocabulary (“good,” “annoying”). It doesn’t expand on ideas as much or provide varied sentence structure, making it appropriate for a mid-level score.

Question: In the future, do you think that you will travel by train more often? (Why/Why not?)

High-Level Answer (Band 9)

“Yes, I believe I might travel by train more in the future, especially as train networks are continuously expanding and becoming more efficient. With the increased focus on environmentally friendly transportation, I feel inclined to choose trains over flights when possible. Besides, new high-speed lines are making long distances much more manageable by train.”

Reasoning: The response uses sophisticated vocabulary, like “continuously expanding,” “environmentally friendly transportation,” and “inclined to choose.” It has a logical flow, with well-connected ideas and a clear understanding of trends in transportation, demonstrating higher lexical resource and coherence.

Mid-Low Level Answer (Band 5-6)

“Yes, I think I will use trains more in the future. They are good for the environment, and maybe there will be more fast trains. It could be a good way to travel.”

Reasoning: This response is adequate but uses simpler language (“good for the environment,” “more fast trains”) and doesn’t elaborate on specific reasons or show complex grammatical structures, resulting in a mid-range score.

Test 1, Part 2

Question Card

Describe a person from your country who has made a significant impact in their field.

-Who are they?
-What recognition or acknowledgment have they received for their contributions?
-What achievements or actions led to their recognition?

Do you believe their contributions are valuable and deserving of such recognition?

High-Level Answer (Band 9)

“I would like to discuss Marie Curie, a pioneering scientist from Poland who made groundbreaking contributions to the field of radioactivity. She is best known for being the first person to win two Nobel Prizes—in Physics in 1903 and Chemistry in 1911. These accolades reflect her immense impact on science and medicine.

Curie’s major achievements include her discovery of the elements polonium and radium. Her research significantly advanced our understanding of atomic structure and laid the groundwork for the development of X-ray technology, which has saved countless lives in medical diagnostics.

Her dedication to science was remarkable; she often worked under challenging conditions and was committed to using her discoveries for the benefit of humanity. I believe her contributions are incredibly valuable and deserving of recognition. Marie Curie’s legacy continues to inspire scientists around the world, demonstrating how passion and perseverance can lead to monumental breakthroughs.”

High-Level Answer (Band 9) Reasoning

The high-level response about Marie Curie successfully addresses all five prompts required by the IELTS scoring rubrics. It starts by identifying Curie as a significant figure in science, meeting the prompt’s requirement to introduce the individual. The mention of her dual Nobel Prizes provides clear recognition of her contributions, fulfilling the second prompt effectively. The discussion of her discoveries, specifically polonium and radium, along with her impact on medical technology through X-ray development, directly responds to the prompt about achievements and actions that led to her recognition.

The speaker’s assertion that Curie’s contributions are valuable demonstrates a clear personal stance, which is encouraged in the IELTS speaking test, reflecting the fourth prompt’s requirement. Finally, the closing remarks about her legacy inspiring future scientists address the overall impact of her work, rounding out the response effectively. The advanced vocabulary and complex sentence structures throughout the answer contribute to coherence and fluency, which are crucial for achieving a high band score in the IELTS speaking section.

Mid-Low Level Answer (Band 5-6)

“I want to talk about Lionel Messi. He is a famous soccer player from Argentina. Messi is known for being really good at football. He played for FC Barcelona for a long time and now he is with Paris Saint-Germain. He scores a lot of goals and helps his teams win games.

Many people say he is one of the best players ever, and he makes football very popular. I think he is important because he shows young players that if you practice hard, you can be great like him.”

Mid-Low Level Answer (Band 5-6) Reasoning

The low-level response regarding Lionel Messi addresses the prompts but does so with less depth and complexity, resulting in a lower score according to IELTS rubrics. The introduction of Messi as a famous soccer player from Argentina meets the first prompt but lacks detail about his background. While the response conveys his recognition as a top player, it does not mention specific awards or achievements, which weakens the response to the second prompt.

The mention of Messi’s ability to score goals and help his teams win games provides some insight into his contributions but lacks specific examples or depth, making it less comprehensive. The implicit belief that Messi is valuable is communicated through his role as an inspiration to young players, but this point could be better developed to fully satisfy the fourth prompt. The closing statement about his popularity in football, while relevant, does not elaborate on the impact of his contributions, leaving the overall response somewhat incomplete. The simpler vocabulary and grammatical structures reflect a lower level of proficiency, aligning with the scoring criteria for a mid-range band score.

Test 1, Part 3

Question: What forms of recognition do students receive for their involvement in extracurricular activities at universities?

High-Level Answer (Band 9)

At universities, students can receive various forms of recognition for their involvement in extracurricular activities, such as certificates of achievement, letters of recommendation from faculty, and awards for leadership or service. These recognitions often serve to enhance a student’s resume, highlighting their skills and commitment to personal development. Additionally, some institutions offer scholarships or academic credits tied to extracurricular participation, further incentivizing student engagement and fostering a sense of accomplishment.

Low Level Answer (Band 4-5)

Students in universities get some recognition for being in extracurricular activities, like certificates or letters from teachers. Sometimes they can win awards for being leaders or helping out. It’s nice to have these things because they look good on job applications, but not all students get a lot of rewards.

Question: What are some potential downsides of awarding participation recognition in higher education?

High-Level Answer (Band 9)

While awarding participation recognition can motivate students, it may also lead to complacency and a culture of entitlement. Some students might expect rewards without genuinely engaging in activities, diminishing the value of real achievements. Furthermore, this approach can undermine competitive spirit and discourage students from striving for excellence. Over time, if recognition is not based on merit, it could lead to disillusionment and a lack of motivation among those who genuinely work hard.

Low Level Answer (Band 4-5)

Giving recognition just for taking part in activities can be bad because some students might think they don’t need to try hard. It can make them lazy and not want to do their best. Also, if everyone gets recognized, it might not feel special anymore.

Question: How important is it for students to receive acknowledgment from their peers compared to their professors?

High-Level Answer (Band 9)

Acknowledgment from peers is often seen as crucial for students because it fosters a sense of belonging and community within the university environment. Peer recognition can enhance social interactions and encourage collaboration, which is essential for personal and academic growth. While recognition from professors carries weight due to their authority and experience, peer acknowledgment can often feel more relatable and affirming, particularly in formative years. Ultimately, both forms of recognition are important, but peer acknowledgment tends to resonate more strongly with students’ emotional and social experiences.

Low Level Answer (Band 4-5)

It’s important for students to get recognition from their friends because it makes them feel included and happy. While getting recognized by teachers is good, it’s often more meaningful to hear praise from other students. Friends understand what you’re going through, so their acknowledgment can matter more.

IELTS 19 Speaking: Test 2

Test 2, Part 1

Question: Are there various international cuisines available where you live? (Why/Why not?)

High-Level Answer (Band 9)

“Yes, there are numerous international cuisines available in my area. I live in a multicultural city where you can find restaurants offering Italian, Indian, Chinese, and Mexican food, among others. The diverse population has brought different culinary traditions, making it easy to explore various flavors. For instance, I recently tried a fantastic Thai restaurant that introduced me to dishes I had never tasted before. It’s exciting to have such variety, and it enhances my dining experiences.”

Mid-Low Level Answer (Band 5-6)

“I don’t know. There are some restaurants, but I don’t really pay attention to what they serve. I usually eat at home. Eating out is too expensive, and I prefer my own cooking. I don’t think there are many international cuisines.”

Question: How frequently do you enjoy meals from different cultures? (Why/Why not?)

High-Level Answer (Band 9)

“I enjoy meals from different cultures quite frequently, at least once or twice a week. I love trying new foods, and my friends and I often go out to eat at various international restaurants. It’s a great way to learn about different cultures and their traditions. Additionally, I enjoy cooking meals from different cuisines at home, which allows me to experiment with flavors and ingredients I might not usually use.”

Mid-Low Level Answer (Band 5-6)

“I don’t really eat different cultures’ food often. I mostly stick to what I know, like pizza and burgers. It’s easier that way, and I don’t want to try anything weird. I think different foods are strange, and I prefer to just have the same things all the time.”

Question: Have you ever attempted to cook dishes from other countries? (Why/Why not?)

High-Level Answer (Band 9)

“Yes, I have tried cooking dishes from other countries, particularly Italian and Indian cuisines. I enjoy experimenting in the kitchen, and I find it fun to replicate dishes like pasta or curry. Cooking these meals allows me to appreciate the cultural significance behind them and understand the different cooking techniques. It’s a rewarding experience when I manage to recreate a dish successfully, and my family enjoys trying my creations.”

Mid-Low Level Answer (Band 5-6)

“No, I’ve never cooked anything from other countries. I don’t see the point because I like my food the way it is. Cooking seems hard, and I usually just heat up leftovers or make simple things like sandwiches. I don’t think I’d enjoy cooking something complicated.”

Question: Which traditional dishes from your country would you suggest to others? (Why/Why not?)

High-Level Answer (Band 9)

“I would recommend several traditional dishes from my country, such as biryani and kebabs. Biryani is a flavorful rice dish with spices, meat, and vegetables, and it represents our rich culinary heritage. Kebabs are also a must-try because they showcase our grilling techniques and blend of spices. Sharing these dishes gives people a taste of our culture and allows them to experience the warmth of our hospitality.”

Mid-Low Level Answer (Band 5-6)

“I can’t think of any traditional dishes to suggest. I mean, there’s probably some, but I don’t really eat them. I mostly eat fast food, and I don’t like to suggest things I don’t know about. People should just eat what they like, I guess.”

Test 2, Part 2

Question Card

Describe a law that you believe should be introduced in your country.

-What specific issue would this law address?
-Who would benefit the most from this law?
-What impact do you think it would have on society?

Why do you believe this law would contribute positively to society?

High-Level Answer (Band 9)

“A law that I believe should be introduced in my country is a comprehensive ban on tobacco advertising, along with a reevaluation of tobacco taxation policies. While increasing taxes on tobacco products has been a common approach to discourage smoking, evidence suggests that high taxes alone are not effective in preventing people from smoking. Many individuals, especially those who are already addicted, may continue to purchase tobacco products despite rising prices.

This law would specifically address the issue of smoking initiation among young people. By banning advertising, we can reduce the exposure of potential smokers, particularly minors, to persuasive marketing tactics. The focus should be on education and awareness rather than simply relying on financial penalties that may not deter seasoned smokers.

The primary beneficiaries of this law would be young people and those who are trying to quit smoking. By removing ads, we can create a less normalized view of smoking in society, making it less appealing to adolescents. Additionally, support programs and resources for quitting should be emphasized to assist those who wish to leave smoking behind.

I believe this law would contribute positively to society by fostering a healthier culture surrounding tobacco use. By shifting the focus from taxation to prevention and education, we can more effectively combat smoking and its associated health risks. Ultimately, this would lead to a greater overall improvement in public health outcomes.”

High-Level Answer (Band 9) Reasoning

This response exhibits strong Task Achievement by thoroughly addressing all aspects of the prompt. It identifies a specific law—banning tobacco advertising—and articulates the issue it seeks to address: smoking initiation among young people. The speaker effectively explains the primary beneficiaries of the law, which include both adolescents and those attempting to quit smoking, demonstrating a clear understanding of the law’s impact.

In terms of Coherence and Cohesion, the response is well-structured, with logical connections between points. The speaker uses varied vocabulary and complex sentence structures, which enhance Lexical Resource and Grammatical Range and Accuracy. The discussion on the importance of education and support programs reflects critical thinking and an understanding of the broader societal implications of tobacco use. Overall, this response exemplifies the characteristics of a high-scoring IELTS Speaking answer, showcasing fluency, clarity, and depth.

Mid Level Answer (Band 6)

“I think a good law would be to raise taxes on cigarettes because it can help people stop smoking. If cigarettes are more expensive, maybe some people won’t buy them as much. It’s a way to make smoking less popular, and it could help people think twice before they start.

The people who would benefit are anyone who wants to stop smoking because if they have to pay more, they might quit. Higher prices can be a reason for smokers to try to find a way to stop, like using patches or other stuff.

Some people might not like this law and complain about paying more money, but it could save money for health care later if less people smoke. So, I think it’s a good idea to raise taxes on tobacco.”

Mid-Low Level Answer (Band 5-6) Reasoning

This response demonstrates some weaknesses in Task Achievement. While it proposes raising taxes on cigarettes, it does not fully explore the specific issue this law would address or its broader societal impact. The reasoning is simplistic and repetitive, which limits the depth of the argument. The mention of the law’s benefits focuses primarily on smokers wanting to quit, but it lacks a comprehensive view of the potential implications for society as a whole.

Regarding Lexical Resource, the vocabulary used is basic, and the sentence structures are simplistic, impacting the overall quality of the response. There are minor grammatical errors and informal phrasing that detract from clarity. The response also lacks a clear logical flow, affecting Coherence and Cohesion. Consequently, this answer would likely receive a mid-range score in the IELTS Speaking assessment due to these shortcomings, particularly in addressing the complexity of the topic and the law’s implications for public health.

Test 2, Part 3

Question: What kinds of rules are common in colleges?

High-Level Answer (Band 9)

Colleges typically enforce a range of rules aimed at maintaining a respectful and conducive learning environment. Common regulations include academic integrity policies, which prohibit plagiarism and cheating, and codes of conduct that address behavior such as harassment or discrimination. Additionally, colleges often have rules related to attendance, substance use, and dormitory regulations to ensure safety and a positive community atmosphere.

Mid Level Answer (Band 5)

In colleges, there are a lot of rules like not cheating on tests and not using drugs. Many schools also have rules about how students should behave with each other, like not being rude or disrespectful. Some colleges have rules about attending classes and how to keep dorms safe and tidy.

Question: How important is it to have rules in a college environment?

High-Level Answer (Band 9)

Having rules in a college environment is crucial for fostering an atmosphere of respect, safety, and academic integrity. Rules help establish clear expectations for behavior, promoting a sense of accountability among students. They also serve to protect the rights of all individuals within the institution, creating a space where everyone can pursue their educational goals without fear of disruption or harm. Moreover, rules can help prepare students for the professional world, where adherence to guidelines and regulations is often essential.

Mid Level Answer (Band 5)

Rules are really important in colleges because they help everyone know what to expect. They keep things safe and fair. Without rules, some people might do things that make it hard for others to learn or feel comfortable. Also, having rules can help students get ready for jobs later on because there are always rules at work too.

Question: What should happen if students violate college rules?

High-Level Answer (Band 9)

If students violate college rules, it is important for institutions to have a clear and fair process for addressing such violations. This often involves an investigation into the incident and appropriate disciplinary measures, which can range from warnings to more serious consequences like suspension or expulsion, depending on the severity of the offense. Ensuring that these processes are transparent and just not only upholds the integrity of the institution but also provides an opportunity for students to learn from their mistakes and understand the importance of compliance with community standards.

Mid Level Answer (Band 5)

If students break the rules, there should be some consequences. Sometimes it might be just a warning, but if it’s something serious, like cheating, they could get kicked out of school. It’s important that the school has a way to deal with rule-breaking so everyone knows that rules matter.

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