Back

IELTS Speaking Part 2 Questions And Answers

6 Jan 2025
3 min read

Part 2 of the IELTS Speaking involves the candidate being given a task card and an opportunity to write some points on the topic for one minute. Then, you’ll be expected to speak something about the topic for 1 to 2 minutes. The examiner will then ask a rounding-off question based on the points highlighted by the candidate. This section can be somewhat difficult, but overall, it can be easily mastered if the proper amount of preparation is done. In this blog post, you will find typical IELTS speaking part 2 questions and answers, along with tips outlining the best strategies and sample answers. So, firstly, if you are a total novice, you could go through our examples to give you the key to solve this section successfully.

Understanding IELTS Speaking Part 2

Speaking Part 2 of the IELTS exam is meant to test your ability to expand on a specific theme. Each participant will be given a task card containing the topic and the points to be discussed and 60 seconds to think about it. During this time, one should take notes and come up with a note-taking pattern so as to address all subtopics of the given subject.  You will then have the opportunity to talk for two minutes. With knowledge of the preparation strategy and familiarity with speaking part 2 questions with answers, you’ll be all set to face the test with confidence. 

Structure of a Good Answer for Part 2

Here are some of the things that make your answer good in this section: 

  1. Fluency and Coherence: Speak clearly and logically. For the written parts, utilise linking words, expand on your answers, and learn when to pause.
  2. Lexical Resource: Use both key and varied appropriate vocabulary and include idiomatic expressions when expressing your ideas.
  3. Pronunciation: Be understandable, speak comprehensively, have the right stress and intonation, and avoid slurring and mumbling.
  4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Write correctly at least five different patterns of advanced grammar without mistakes to prove your grammatical proficiency.

Common Types of Questions in Part 2

Some of the most common types of question you can encounter include: 

  • Talk about a memorable day that brought you happiness.
  • Describe an energetic individual you know.
  • Discuss a prize you would love to win.
  • Explain a tradition that is popular in your country.
  • Share a piece of advice you’ve recently received.
  • Describe a skill you wish to acquire.
  • Talk about your favourite song and why you like it.
  • Explain a skill you could teach others.
  • Talk about the weather you enjoy the most.
  • Recall a time when you made a promise to someone.
  • Describe a toy you cherished during your childhood.
  • Share a place you dream of visiting.

Sample IELTS Speaking Part 2 Questions and Answers

Now let’s see some IELTS speaking part 2 questions with answers

1. Talk about a memorable day that brought you happiness.

The most joyful memory was the day that I graduated from the university. Instead of just acknowledging a student’s academic performance, we can also say it was a moment that said time is up and all the energy, commitment and efforts put in the years leading to that moment were worth it.

As I got out of bed, dressed myself in the graduation gown and cap, I was filled with joy and expectation. It was a fantastic feeling to strut across that stage to accept my degree. My family was present in the front line, they were happy clapping for me and since I am already accomplished, the feeling is as well a cherry on top.

After the wedding, we went to a small family dinner, and I recall that there was only a sense of praise and excitement around me. The feeling of success was immense, but I would have to say that even more important for me was the appreciation of my close ones that day. It was as if the turning point of my life was complete with the fullness of new opportunities that await a new chapter in my life.

2. Describe a skill you wish to acquire?

If I could, I’d like to learn how to play the guitar. Music has been a great interest in my life and as for instrumentalists especially guitarists I have always considered them as people to emulate. I suppose it would be fascinating to react musically and be able to compose my emotions and my own tunes. The guitar is a diverse instrument, and having the skills to play it will ultimately pay off as a fulfilling hobby.

I enjoy listening to guitar music, especially acoustic and rock or anything that makes a clean sound; I’d like to be able to play that. What excites me most about guitar is the struggle of knowing the songs, the chords, the techniques, and the rhythm. This is why I want to start completely from scratch and take it step by step. I don’t have any experience with guitar yet; however, this drives me to play frequently and improve.

I think that it is a skill that would truly be fulfilling to me personally and, if I am fortunate enough, truly help me reach out and make a difference by putting music out there into the world.

Tips for Excelling in Part 2

  1. Understand the question very well: Read the topic carefully and identify the key points you need to cover. It’s not only about speaking but also about how well you can think.
  2. Think on your feet: Quickly use your one-minute prep time to jot down relevant examples or anecdotes. Go through all the practice exercises you can find and have lots of ideas ready. 
  3. Structure Your Response: Organize your answer with a clear introduction, main points, and conclusion.
  4. Use Descriptive Language: Engage the examiner with vivid, detailed descriptions to showcase your vocabulary.
  5. Stay Relevant: Stick to the topic and avoid tangents to keep your responses concise and focused.
  6. Practice Speaking: Regular practice with IELTS topics will boost fluency and confidence.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are common mistakes students make: 

  • Not Using the Full Time: Anything less than 1 to  2 minutes is a dampener, as it slashes your marks right away. Try to develop a concept to its maximum level and expand on your answers.
  • Overloading with Unrelated Details: Vague guessing of what you might think the answer might be can make it hard to stay on topic, or include unrelated information. Especially when working with a task card, it is crucial to work out only the key points.
  • Lack of Structure: A cumulative and sometimes even rambling response can lead the examiner astray because it lacks structure. Follow a logical flow. 
  • Monotone Delivery: While responding to the question, it’s better not to speak in a very boring tone because it would sound monotonous. Punctuate your words by alternating the tones and the way you stress important words.
  • Repetitive Vocabulary: The repetition of words within your application also cuts the maximum number of possible lexical words. It is wise to practice the use of a variety of the actually observed words and phrases.
  • Grammatical Mistakes: making errors from time to time is tolerable, but making grammar errors will indeed cost you marks. Different types of interlocutor sentences and tenses should be practised.

Practice Resources for IELTS Speaking Part 2

You can find resources such as 100 IELTS speaking part 2 topics pdf or this resource section from British Council that gives you more information. You can also learn precisely what to expect and how to tackle the different parts of the IELTS. 

Conclusion

We’ve discussed all the important points about IELTS speaking part 2 questions and answers. You can find more resources online to study up and become proficient at answering. Remember to keep calm and stay natural in all your answers.  

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How Long Should my Answer be in IELTS Speaking Part 2? 

Your answer should last between 1 to 2 minutes. Aim to speak continuously without going off-topic.

2. Can I take Notes During the Preparation Time? 

Yes, you are allowed one minute to take notes. Jot down key points to help structure your answer.

3. What should I do if I Run out of Things to say? 

Try to expand on your initial points by adding more details or related examples to keep the conversation going.

4. Is it okay to make Grammar Mistakes in Part 2? 

A few minor mistakes are fine, but frequent errors can impact your score. Focus on using correct structures and tenses.

5.Can I use Idioms in my Response? 

Yes, using idiomatic expressions can improve your vocabulary score. Just make sure they are appropriate and natural for the topic.

Read More Articles

Chat with us
Chat with us
Talk to career expert