Tricky or strange IELTS part 1 speaking topics.

Updated: September 2023

Part 1 of the IELTS speaking test is actually the easiest. The topics are always about you and your experiences. Usually, the topics are pretty easy everyday topics such as job, studies, hobbies, accommodation, travel, hometown, music, daily routine, pets and so on. The examiner asks between 9 to 12 questions based around 3 topics and this part of the test lasts around 5 minutes.

However, the examiner will often ask you questions around an unusual topic. This is quite normal as the examiner wants to check whether you have memorised answers to the most common topics and needs to evaluate your true ability. Do not memorise stock answers as the examiner is trained to spot these and you could lose marks.

Common topics and model responses for IELTS speaking part 1.

In part one of the speaking test, you will be asked questions on 3 different topics. There could be up to 12 questions. It lasts about 4 to 5 minutes.

The topics are pretty general and are mainly about you. The aim of this part of the test is to get you to speak in a natural way without hesitation. If you are memorising answers or scripts, the examiner will notice that and you could lose points. Make sure you speak naturally.

Unusual IELTS speaking part 1 topics

Tricky or strange IELTS part 1 speaking topics.

IELTS Speaking part 1 topics and example responses.

Common topics and model responses for IELTS speaking part 1.