Adel M Hasanin, MRCP (UK)

Academic IELTS Guidelines

IELTS has four papers:

Number of sections Number of total items Time allowed

Listening 4 sections 40 items 30 minutes + 10 minutes transfer time
Reading 3 sections 40 items 60 minutes
Writing 2 tasks 150 and a 250 word piece 60 minutes
Speaking 3 parts 11 to 14 minutes

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Adel M Hasanin, MRCP (UK)

1. LISTENING TEST

Overview of the listening test

The Listening test is the first part of the IELTS examination and consists of four recorded sections.
The level of difficulty increases through the paper.
There are 10 questions in each section and you will be given time to read these questions before
you listen to each part. The question types vary and focus on a variety of different listening skills
(completing a form, chart or diagram, selecting pictures which represent what you have heard,
note-taking exercises, and multiple-choice questions). You may find that each listening section is
divided into two parts.
There is a range of topics and tasks which test your comprehension skills, e.g.
o Listening for specific information, such as dates and place names
o Listening for detail
o Understanding gist
o Understanding speaker attitude/opinion
Section 1: you will hear a dialogue between two speakers in a social or semi-official context. One
of the speakers may be seeking factual information such as names or dates which you will have to
identify or note down. Alternatively you may have to select the right picture, fill in a form or
complete some notes. Only in section one of the test, you will hear the example plays twice
Section 2: You will hear one person giving a talk on a topic of general interest. As well as listening
for specific information, you may be asked to interpret the speaker's ideas. You will therefore need
to follow the talk carefully and be prepared to separate the main ideas from the supporting detail.
Section 3: you will have to follow a conversation with more than two speakers based on academic
topics or course-related situations. It is important that you are able to distinguish between the
different speakers as well as understand what they are saying.
Section 4: a university-style lecture or talk.

How to approach the listening test:

1. Before you listen, read the question carefully and note how many words/options you must
write/pick

2. Look at the questions and list of answers, and underline any key words that you think will help to
decide what sort of information you should listen out for and what type of word is needed (e.g. a
noun, a verb, an adjective or a number). You may also rephrase the question/statement and the list
of answers in your own words (if possible).

3. As you listen, answer the questions. Don't panic if you miss one question. Look ahead and
concentrate on the next one.

4. Wait until the end of the test to transfer your answers. You have ten minutes for this which is
plenty of time. When you transfer your answer to the answer sheet, make sure that you follow the
same numbering as the questions on the question paper

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2. READING TEST

Overview of the reading test:

The test has three reading passages and each of the passages is accompanied by a set of questions.
There may be more than one type of question in each set. For example, you may be asked to find
detailed information in a text in order to complete sentences; you may have to identify views and
attitudes within a text; you may have to understand how something works and complete a diagram
or chart.
Particular areas you should focus on in your practice are:
o Using synonyms, summary words etc. to help you locate information.
o Different ways of expressing the same ideas or information in a text.
o Reading skills such as skimming and scanning for information.

How to approach the reading test:

1. Read the title, sub-headings and number the paragraphs (if not already numbered)

2. Read the paragraphs in the order they come; skim through the text and underline the key
vocabulary (names, numbers, locations, dates, and signpost words). You should remember that
your main aim is to locate the answers to the questions. You do not need to read in the same way
you would if you needed to memorise something.

3. After reading each one or two paragraphs, check the questions (read carefully and underline the
instructions and the rubric, skim through the questions and look at the diagram or the chart if any)
and write down the answers that you know in the answer sheet. Repeat this step till you finish
answering the questions. In note-completing, you will be expected to complete the notes using
words that are printed in the passage when the instructions state that this is required. If you do not
do this and you use words that are not given in the passage, you may be penalised.

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3. WRITING TEST
Overview of writing task 1:

In the writing task 1, you are given a task based on some graphic or pictorial information. You are
expected to write a descriptive report of at least 150 words on the information provided. You are
advised to spend approximately 20 minutes on this task (15 minutes for writing and five minutes
for counting words and making corrections).
You could get any of the following or a variation on these formats: line graph, pie chart, bar chart,
table, diagram of how something works or diagram of a process. There may be more than one of
these in the task.
How to approach writing task 1:

1. Decide about the main features and the vocabulary and tenses you will use, and plan your answer
as follows: a) introductory paragraph, b) three paragraphs on the main features and c) concluding
paragraph (general comment on the graph). Never write your answer in bullet points. You will lose
marks if you do this. Always use continuous text and always use paragraphs to organize your
points

2. Introduce your answer by stating the purpose of the graph (in case of graphic information) or the
overall function of the process (in case of pictorial information). The diagram labels often give
you names and other words but you need to produce your own words, such as verbs, in the right
tense and voice (active or passive). Examples:
The top (bottom) line graph (bar chart) (pie chart) describes the changes (growth) in the
number (amount) of between and (throughout, & )
The table compares the changes in the
The diagram illustrates the process by which is produced (how a.is used to)

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3. Write around three paragraphs on the main features. Each paragraph should give complete
information about a feature using linking structures to connect your ideas and comparing data
where relevant.

Examples of the linking structures used to connect your ideas and compare data:
o According to this graph, there was
o Looking at the table in more detail, however, we can see that
o It is also noteworthy that whereas (whilst) (while)
o In the same way (Likewise) (Similarly), the
o On the other hand, however, the
o Nevertheless (Nonetheless) (However) (Yet) (Even so) (Conversely), the
o N.B. Using appropriate linkers is important, but don't start every sentence with one.
Remember that words like "this, the, which and it" and comparative/superlative structures
also link ideas.

Examples of the structures used in describing facts and figures:

o Five out of ten students
o Approximately (nearly) 50 percent of students
o Relatively small percentage of
o The majority of
o A minority of
o Just more than (over) half of
o Just under a thousand (nearly one thousand)
o Adverbs: Considerably, Slightly, Relatively, significantly

Examples of the structures used in describing trends in line graph:

o Shows an upward trend (a rise formto) (increases two-fold formto) between&
o Reaches a peak (an all-time peak) atin
o After this, it shows a stable pattern (reaches a plateau at around) (Remains stable at
around) throughout&
o Shows a downward trend (a gradual decline) between&when numbers fell fromto
o Hits the lowest point (a trough) inwhen it fell down to about (around)
o Shows some fluctuation (variation)
o The second (third) highest (lowest) figure (value) is
o Adjectives/ adverbs: Sharp (sharply), Dramatic (dramatically), Gradual (gradually),
Considerable (considerably), Significant (significantly), Slight (slightly), Gentle (gently),
Relative (relatively)
o N.B. Use the present perfect tense when you are describing a trend that began in the past and
is still continuing. Sentences like this may include "since". For example: temperatures have
risen worldwide since 2000
o N.B. The word figure(s) can be used as a substitute for numbers & percentages and so it is a
useful reference word for avoiding repetition

Examples of the structures used in describing processes:

o The process consists of stages.
o First, theis produced bywhen it
o This is thenand/or. before/after making
o Finally, it is
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4. Write a concluding paragraph that gives a general comment on the graph. Example:
Overall (In general) the key points to note are thatand (together with)

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Overview of writing task 2:

The second task is more demanding. You are expected to produce a written argument on a given
topic and to organise your answer clearly, giving some examples to support your points. You will
have to write at least 250 words and, as Task 2 is longer than Task 1, you are advised to spend
approximately 40 minutes on this task and 20 minutes on the first task.
You cant impress by copying words and phrases from the question paper. Try to use your own
words at all times. Dont bother learning essays by heart to use in the exam. Examiners are looking
out for this kind of response and will mark you down for it.
Note that it is poor style to repeatedly use certain linkers. Native speakers frequently use very simple
words to link ideas together like this, these/those and such.
It is important to demonstrate your ability to control complex sentences and to link your ideas but
don't overdo it! A good piece of writing contains a balance of simple and complex structures and not
every sentence has to be linked. Sometimes a short, simple sentence can have a great deal of
impact.
Leave time to check your answer for careless mistakes at the end. If you can, check for spelling
mistakes, verb and subject agreement, singular/plural nouns, and the flow of your writing.

How to approach writing task 2:

1. Read the question and analyse the task to see how many parts you have to write about. Underline
the key words that you may use to create your ideas.

2. Develop ideas by brainstorming (if the topic has two sides, make a list of pros and cons). Decide
on the main arguments and supporting ideas and your position. Plan your answer as follows: a)
introductory paragraph, b) five paragraphs on the main arguments and c) concluding paragraph.

3. Introduce your answer by re-phrasing the question or posing a new question that you then explore
in the main body of your answer. An introduction can include a sentence stating your position on
the topic (but this is not essential).

Examples of the structures used to rephrase the question (useful for both writing and
speaking):
o It is highly fashionable in some circles to argue that
o There is always some controversy over whetheror whether
o The relative importance ofis a frequent topic of discussion when people try to explain

Examples of structures used to pose a new question:

o It is highly fashionable in some circles to argue that However I feel the question is not
whetherbut whether

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4. Write about five paragraphs on your main arguments. Each paragraph should go in the following
sequence: main argument, explaining, supporting ideas, concessions, then new point in new
paragraph and so on (the examples provided are useful for both writing and speaking):

Examples of structures used to introduce your main arguments plainly and forcefully:
o In my opinion, far and away the most importantis that
o Generally, I agree with the argument/view that
o I firmly believe that
o There is little evidence to support the argument that
o I tend to disagree with the argument thatThis fails to take into consideration the
o I am highly sceptical (doubtful) about the argument that

Examples of structures used to explain what you mean more clearly (defining/explaining):
o By this I mean that
o In other words,
o To be more precise,
o Here I'm (not) referring to

Examples of structures used to Link your main argument with supporting ideas
(examples/reasons/ comparisons/personal experiences):
o A good example of this is/ Take, for example,
o For instance,
o My main reason for saying this is that
o In comparison
o In my personal experience,

Examples of structures used to admit that there are arguments that differ from your own
(making concessions):
o Even though this is a popular view, not everyone takes such an approach.
o In this field it is arguable that
o On the other hand,
o Admittedly, /Obviously,

Examples of structures used to show that you're making a new point particularly at the
beginning of each new paragraph:
o In addition there is the issue of the
o Another possible (major) cause is
o The second key problem (question) is
o The second important reason why I am against (argument against)is that
o In consequence,
o Furthermore,/Moreover,...
o However,/ Nevertheless,/Nonetheless,.../even so,.../on the other hand,.../Yet,

5. Write a concluding paragraph that sum up your argument and re-state your position. Examples:
Consequently, for the reasons explained above I think that (I feel strongly that) the advantages
of are far outweighed by the disadvantages.
In the final analysis, from an economic (a social) perspective, I think that
In conclusion,/to sum up,./overall,
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4. SPEAKING TEST

Overview of the speaking test:

IELTS speaking test consists of 3 parts in total 11-14 minutes as follows:

Time Interaction
Part 1 4-5 The examiner will begin with some introductory questions to which
Introduction minutes you should reply briefly and clearly.
and Then you will be asked a few questions, on familiar topics, to which
interview you should reply as fully as possible. The first question is usually about
your home town or your studies/work. Then you may get questions on
any general, everyday topics, such as: reading material, forms of
transport, types of building, weather, types of celebration,
hobbies/interests, types of entertainment and types of scenery.
Part 2 3-4 The candidate is asked to give a short talk on a topic written on a card.
Individual minutes The examiner will hand you some paper and a pencil to make notes.
long turn The candidate has a minute to prepare and then speaks on the topic
without stopping for 1-2 minutes. After you have given your talk, the
examiner may ask you one or two related follow-up questions which you
should answer briefly
Part 3 4-5 The candidate is presented with more abstract questions broadly
Two-way minutes linked to the topic introduced in Part 2, and is encouraged to engage in
discussion extensive discussion

Do not rush Begin with an opening expression to give yourself a little thinking time
Unlike the writing paper, when you are speaking it is not necessary to give clear strong opinions.
Answer each question directly. Don't talk about something unrelated to the examiner's question.
Give a full response, take the initiative, make more than one point, try to explain the reasons for
your opinions and give examples from your experience.
Vary your vocabulary and structures.
Look at the examiner, make the talk interesting and lively, but stick to the purpose of the
conversation.
Speak loudly enough for the examiner to hear you and try to pronounce your words clearly.
Pay attention to the way you emphasise words and syllables within words, and try not to speak in a
monotonous voice.
You can prepare by collecting some phrases to help you start your talk and move on from point to
point. This will help to make you feel more confident and relaxed too. However, don't learn
answers by heart it can be very obvious.
If you don't understand the examiner, you can ask him or her to repeat the question or explain a
word, e.g. sorry, could you repeat the question, please? Or could you explain what means?
If you're not sure about the answer, you can use expressions that give you some time to think
about how you will answer a question, e.g. I'm not sure what I think about, let me think, I
really don't know/can't remember, it depends on, I tend to think that, on the whole, it seems
that
Dont worry if you realise youve made a mistake. Its OK to correct yourself.

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How to approach speaking part 1 (general questions about everyday situations):

1. Listen to the question forms and the words that the examiner uses. These will help you form your
answer.

2. Begin with an opening expression to give yourself a little thinking time. Examples (useful for all
parts of speaking test):
Well, actually...
Generally speaking
On the whole, it seems to me that
I tend to think that/prefer
I firmly (strongly)believe that
If you're not sure about the answer:
o That's a difficult question...
o I haven't really thought about it much
o I really don't know/can't remember
o I'm not sure what I think about
o I haven't really got a strong opinion...
o I honestly have no idea but...In my opinion, far and away the most importantis
that
o Let me think

3. Reflect on the question itself / explore the issues raised in the question and clarify exactly what
you are going to answer / what the question means. this is more important in part 2 and 3 but
even in part 1 the questions are often so vague that you need to clarify them before giving an
answer. Example: It depends

4. Try to make 2 or 3 - short points in your answers. Dont speak in long written style sentences and
do not give a one word answer. Do not use strange vocabulary and try to use natural language.

5. Examples of phrases used in answering questions about everyday situations (speaking part 1):
Do you prefer to have one particular friend or a group of friends?
o I dont know...
o I dont think I have one best friend...I have a small group of really close
friendsand then a much wider group.
How do you usually contact your friends?
o Actually, I dont really have a usual way these days I use so many different
ways mobile, landline, text, Facebook, BBS (I have a Blackberry) MSN I just use
whichever is most convenient at the time.
o It depends on which friends with my friends here I usually use my mobile or text
but with friends in other countries and some of my best friends are abroad at the moment
maybe Facebook, or email but I NEVER make international calls!
In your country did people in the past keep in contact in the same ways as they do
today?
o It varies a lot and it depends on how far in the past you mean. Lots of young
people use Facebook but my parents dont. Everyone has a mobile and they have for at
least the last 10 years. Of course, 30 years ago they didnt.

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o The mobile phone had an enormous impact on XXX society everyone has and we
can keep in touch -and text each other at any time. Thats the single biggest change over
the last 20 years.
Do you enjoy studying English?
o Sometimes yes other times no but I keep going because I know its important for
me.
o Not really I want to be able to speak it but Im not so keen on the studying part.
o I like speaking but doing grammar practice is incredibly boring for me.
What do you do?
o Im a teacher I teach English to foreign students mainly people going to
university here.
o Im a teacher now but I used to work in an advertising agency (a long time ago).
o Im a teacher I used to own a reasonably sized language school in London (not
any more).
Have you got any brothers or sisters?
o Ive got a brother and a sister older brother and younger sister so Im the
middle one its the best position I think
o Ive got a younger brother hes about 2 and a half years younger than me so its
quite a small age gap and I havent got a sister.
o I havent got any actually mm Im an only child I think it would have been nice
to.. to have a brother or sister but.. but I havent.
o Actually Ive got three sisters and three brothers... it was a ... Its a really big
family... Im the youngest... mmm and theres a ... I think a 20 year gap between me and the
oldest.
What kind of house do you live in?
o Its a modern detached house its got four bedrooms (but one of them is tiny).
o Now Im living in a tiny bed-sit theres a communal kitchen and four of us have
to share a bathroom.
What do you like doing most with your friends?
o Give yourself a little thinking time Well Actually... Well, actually
Thats difficult to say because
o Reflect on the question itself:
This is useful because for most people there isnt one thing they like doing most with all
their friends.
It depends on which friend
I like doing different things with different friends...
There isnt really one thing I like doing most.
o Give an answer
Well, it depends on which friends I like doing different things with different friends. But
one of the things I really enjoy is playing football - I play in Corporation Park with a
group of friends from university every Sunday.
What was your favourite subject at school?
o Give yourself a little thinking time
Well Actually... Well, actually Thats difficult to say because
o Reflect on the question itself:
I didnt really have a favourite subject
My favourite subject changed from year to year...
o Give an answer
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Well, actually, I didnt really have one favourite subject. I didnt like the sciences very
much but I enjoyed all the Arts subjects especially History and English.
What are you doing in England?
o Im studying for an MA in Finance at Manchester University I finish in 2 months
time.
o Im studying for an MA in Finance at Manchester University I want to work in
international banking when I finish.
Has your country changed much since you were a child?
o not really
o yes and no
o Thats a difficult question to answer clearly in some ways yes, but in others no
for example, when I was young divorce was still quite unusual in the UK now nearly half of
all marriages end in divorce. This is a huge change. On the other hand peoples basic goals
havent changed - a home, a job, a happy relationship. These basic aspects of society havent
changed.
o Actually yes. It has changed enormously. A good example is the family. Now far
more people get divorced, far more people live together when they are not married and far
more gay people live together as couples. This is a huge change. When I was a child none of
my friends had divorced parents now Im divorced, my brother is divorced, and most of my
friends are divorced too!
What kind of book do you like?
o Thats a difficult question for me to answer because...
o At the moment I really enjoy...
o A little while ago...
o For example, recently Ive
o What is really great about (him) is that
o He learnt (Dutch) so that he could...
o At one point
o Hes a heroic kind of person I think its possible to get some inspiration...
o Though actually

How to approach speaking part 2 (short talk about a simple topic):

1. Use the preparation time wisely by jotting down some key ideas (but do not try to write out a
speech).

2. Introduce your topic clearly. Below is a list of possible ways to introduce this topic:
I'd like to talk about
I've chosen to talk about
I'm going to talk about

3. It is easier if you link the topic with a personal example or story.

4. Examples of phrases used in answering questions about a simple topics (speaking part 2):
General (explaining how do you feel)
o What I like aboutis that
o The reason why I enjoyis that
o The reason I don't likeis that
o One interesting thing is that
o One of the good things about is being able to

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o One of the bad things aboutis not being able to

o One of the problems with is that
Consider using the following adjectives to improve the way you describe things:
impressive, depressing, informative, enjoyable, complicated, relaxing, scary, sociable, tiring,
breathtaking
Describe a person.
o He was a hugely positive (negative) role model because...
o Positive: ambitious people
refuse to give up
dont settle for second best
he has faced up to problems
not quitters
have plenty of get up and go
set themselves ambitious goals
o Positive: cheerful
always have a smile on their faces
dont complain about everything
Always go away feeling happier than when I arrived...
see the positive side of situations
they can brighten up a room
dont let little problems get them down
make other people feel good just to be with them
o Negative: negative people
always complaining
always see the problem not the solution
never have a good word to say about anyone
something is always wrong
o Negative: self-centered people
always talking about themselves
extremely boring company
always thinking about themselves
not interested in other people
Describe a party that you enjoyed.
o Probably the party I most enjoyed was at my brothers house it was his wifes
birthday and a lot of their friends were there. It was a normal party a lot of drinking and
eating, loud music but the reason why I enjoyed it so much and remember it so well
was that it was the first time I met David who is now probably my closest friend. He has
been a hugely positive role model for me because he has had a lot of problems but always
faced up to them with a smile on his face. When I met him he was not very well but I would
never have known it because he was so cheerful enthusiastic for life. We started chatting
about work but I quickly realised that he had a lot to teach me. Since then Ive had some
problems and hes been able to give me helpful advice and when I see him I always go
away feeling happier than when I arrived. One time
What kinds of national celebrations do you have in your country?
o Give yourself a bit of time. Well, actually..
o Reflect on the question. I dont think there are many in Britain.
o Attempt an answer. but I suppose Christmas is the biggest one but it means
different things to different people.
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o Expand. for some people it is still an important religious time, but for most it is
just a time to be with your family give, presents and eat a lot.
o Example. We always spend it together as a family. We give presents and for
Christmas lunch we have turkey with brussels sprouts and roast potatoes the traditional
food followed by Christmas pudding and micce pies. Its the only time of the year that the
whole family is together so I really enjoy it.
Tell me about the main industries in your country.
o Im not sure whether its a main industry but I know that financial services are
very important in the UK hundreds of thousands of people have extremely well-paid jobs in
the City of London not just banking but all the services they need like lawyers, accountants
and so on.
o I really dont know about the country but in my city chemicals are an important
industry and there are at least 3 big companies which make a whole range of different
products my father works for one of them.
Describe something healthy you enjoy doing.
o I feel free as a bird
o the stresses and strains of everyday life
o the sheep grazing in the fields
o feel my feet pounding a steady rhythm on the road
o I feel fresh as a daisy.
o And there are more: even ordinary phrases which are natural will impress I do it
by myself in the countryside which is surrounding the house where I live
Where are you from? How long have you been here? Do you like it? Are you here by
yourself?
o Well, about 6 months, and Im probably going to stay for 2 years more.
o Yes, I like it a lot...but... em.. the only thing I really dont like is the weather.
Describe a game or sport you enjoy playing? You should say: what kind of game or sport it is,
who you play it with, where you play it and explain why you enjoy playing it.
o Technique
pattern: idea - expand - example
contrast with your everyday / work / normal life
think about physical / mental / social reasons
o Language:
General:
Probably the game which I most enjoy playing in my spare time is...
One of my favourite sports / things to do is...
I think there are two (three / is one) main reasons why I really enjoy it, (and the first
one is...)
One of the things I like most about it is...
It's a complete change of pace...
It's a complete change from my everyday activities...
Physical: (...the physical side)
It's really energetic...
I can burn off all my surplus energy...
I can work off my frustrations...
I can keep fit / build some muscles / burn off some calories / tone up my body
It's a really good thing for me physically, I think, that at the weekend...
When you are (playing tennis) you can't think about anything else...
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(... and the other reason why I really like it is...)

Mental:
I can get rid of my frustrations...
It's mentally demanding...
It's a good mental discipline...
It's very engrossing / absorbing / interesting...
Social:
This is my chance to really get to know different people... and I absolutely love it.
It's a good chance to meet a completely different group of people from my work
friends / colleagues
It's a really good way to meet people.
There are people from all sorts of backgrounds and jobs.
Example: Probably the game which I most enjoy playing in my spare time is tennis. And
I play it at my local club with all different kinds of people who go there because we have
a tennis league... and we all play each other... So Im not just playing with one person... I
play with a lot of different people...
And I think there are two main reasons why I really enjoy it and the first one
is the physical side because its really energetic...Im running around the
court... hmm.. at the end of it I feel exhausted...I can burn off all the surplus
energy and I can keep fit at the same time.. because during the week Im sitting
on a chair in my office. I walk to get a cup of coffee... probably nothing else and
its a really big change and a really good thing for me physically I think that at
the weekend I go and for a couple of hours anyway.. Im running around a
tennis court... thinking about a tennis ball .. I dont think of anything else.. just
hitting the ball .. and trying my best to win the point...hmm sometimes I do and
sometimes I dont.
And the other reason why I really like it is because of the social side. Its a
really good way to meet people and theyre people... a completely different
group of people from my work friends...
And thats great because at work Im dealing with people who are doing...
theyre all accountants the same kind of people as me... and this is my chance to
really get to know different people.. and er I absolutely love it
(280 words)

Describe a place - for example, London
o a cosmopolitan city:
people from all over the world
in the street I can hear so many different languages
bustling streets full of colour and life
so many people coming to try fulfill their dreams
exciting and vibrant
restaurants serving food from all over the world
I can eat food from virtually every country in the world
o a city of contrasts:
the very rich living side-by-side with the very poor
the businessman in his expensive suit walking past the tramp in tattered old clothes in the
shop doorway

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veiled women from Saudi Arabia walking down the street next to young trendy girls in
short skirts from China
punks with tattoos and piercings sitting on a bus next to a middle aged couple - who don't
even notice them
o it's a city where you can be yourself
it seems tolerant and open to people of all types
a bit scary but at the same time exhilarating
Talk about the song and why it is important to you.
o Pick a song write down the name so you dont forget if you are nervous
o Think about why it is important to you
for example: you remember a great holiday
for example: you met your partner
for example: it reminds you of a great period in your life
o Then talk about the story after introducing the song
o Make sure you say something like Every time I hear the song I think about.
Thats why its important for me.

4. The follow-up question will probably only require a yes or no answer and a couple of other words. We
often give short answers in English by simply repeating the auxiliary verb or the verb to be or to do
which was used in the question. You must use the same tense as the question. Examples: have you
done this kind of work before? Yes, I have (No, I haven't), do you know anyone who has done this
work? Yes, I do (No, I don't), are you going to study law at university? Yes, I think I am (yes, I
think so), does it cost much to join the university sports club? No, I don't think it does (No, I don't
think so)

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Adel M Hasanin, MRCP (UK)

How to approach speaking part 3 (discussion of abstract topic):

1. Listen to the question forms and the words that the examiner uses. These will help you form your
answer.

2. Begin with an opening expression to give yourself a bit of thinking time (see examples in part 1)

3. Reflect on the question itself / explore the issues raised in the question and clarify exactly what
you are going to answer / what the question means. Example: It depends

4. Try to make 2 or 3 - short points in your answers. Dont speak in long written style sentences and
do not give a one word answer. Do not use strange vocabulary and try to use natural language.
Here are some useful strategies for developing ideas:

Think about what other Even though some peopleI think

people might believe
Make a direct contrast or
comparison
Use personal experience
Refer back in time
Refer to the media
Analyse the question
Agree or disagree
I tend to think that while young people, older people
It's hard to say, but in my experienceand so I think
I think in the past it was true thatbut nowadays
Newspapers and other media suggest thatbut I'm not sure they're
right.
I think it depends on the type of person. If, thenbut if, then
Generally I would say that, but

5. When you give an opinion, try to back it up by giving a reason for it or by offering a second point
of view. Here are some useful expressions for doing this:

opinion Giving a reason/a second point of view

For meis very important Because...
I think But I can understand that
I don't really think much of On the other hand
It all depends on Personally I believe
Some people feel But I actually think

6. Give summary comment that sum up your argument and re-state your position. Examples:
The truth is its difficult to generalise the average is not necessarily any individuals
experience.

7. Examples of phrases used in answering questions about abstract topics (speaking part 3):
What are the typical choices people make at different stages of their lives?
o WellI suppose... (give yourself thinking time)
o ..especially these days there is much more variety so it is more difficult to say what
is typical (reflect on the question which is always very vaguely worded)
o but an average person is probably thinking about education in their teens, getting a
job in their 20s and getting married in their 30s (answer the question you could go on to
give much more here and an example but I prefer to challenge the premise of the question)
o but so many people are different that it is difficult to call this typical I know
many people who are getting married and remarried in their 40s changing their careers

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and even going back to university in their 50s when this is happening I think it is just
untrue to create an average and then call it typical.
o For example.
o The truth is its difficult to generalise the average is not necessarily any
individuals experience. (Summary comment)
How can games help to unite people?
o Well, actually thats a difficult question for me to answer because I dont think
games do help to unite people. In fact it seems to me that the whole point of games is
that they divide people - into winners and losers. On a national level sports are used to show
off thats why countries want the Olympics and the World Cup. In my opinion this is
divisive and mad. Of course games can be fun but the fun is defeating, and ideally
absolutely crushing your opponent lts not pretend they are about uniting people.
In what ways can people in a family be similar to each other?
o Well, I suppose that the two main ways are in terms of character and appearance.
In my family, I think that my father and his brother look quite different but they are similar in
character in many ways
o that my introduction leads up to an example this enables me to describe a person:
o they are both quite cheerful, extrovert people they love talking and being with
other people. My uncle, in particular is an extremely positive person people always leave
him feeling better than when they arrived. I dont know where they got this from but
unfortunately I dont think Ive inherited it!
o What kinds of people become famous these days?
What kinds of people become famous these days?
o Well, its difficult to answer because many different kinds of people are famous in
different areas. There are artists who are famous with people who are interested in art but
unknown by people who have no interest in art. There are reality TV shows and talent
contests like Big Brother or X factor where the contestants are quite famous with the
viewers but not with me because I never watch them. So I dont think its possible to give a
clear answer to the question many different kinds I suppose is the best answer I can
give.
Should individuals or governments be responsible for making peoples lifestyle
healthy?
o Actually, for me thats an easy question to answer easy because I have strong
views on it: I think its none of the governments business how people live. If people want to
smoke, or drink too much, or watch TV rather than go to the gym thats fine with me. I
hate the way the government spends so much money trying to control peoples lives
Where can people in your country get information about genetic research?
o Well, I dont really know I havent really thought about it. It depends on what kind
of information the question means. If it is general scientific information then I suppose
ordinary people can find the information on the internet using Google maybe, or
Wikipedia. Sometimes there is a story in the newspapers or on television. I watched a
programme a few months ago about genetically modified crops it discussed the arguments
in favour of GM and the arguments against it. There were scientists and people from
environmental groups - I think I got a lot of information from it. Im certainly in favour of it!
Why do some people choose to lead unhealthy lives?
o Think: Actually, I think its impossible to give a general answer to that question
o Refer to the question: it depends on the person - and it depends on what you mean
by unhealthy.

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Adel M Hasanin, MRCP (UK)

o I think people do things for many different reasons its like saying Why do some
people read books? lots of reasons.
o But more importantly I think who decides what is unhealthy if I enjoy
something it gives me pleasure and it makes me feel good I LOVE it why is it
unhealthy health is about quality not just quantity of life
o Examples:
a. I read a story the other week about a businessman in my home town he was
overweight loved eating drinking and smoking had a lot of girlfriends he
was always travelling round the world and going to parties he was at a
Blackburn Rovers football match after a big lunch with friends shouting and
cheering they were winning (unusually) when he had a massive heart attack
and died. Great life I think a healthy way to live in my opinion.
b. It seems to me that an unhealthy lifestyle is much more enjoyable than a
healthy one, and that is probably why people choose it: eating chocolate rather
than vegetables, going to bed late rather than early, and drinking whisky rather
than water! I used to enjoy all of those things, but unfortunately it also means a
short life, so I decided to change. I still go to bed late sometimes, but I have
stopped the others.
What do most people do in your country to keep fit?
o Well, I think it depends on what you mean by keep fit. I think that having a
good healthy diet is probably the most important thing that people do in my country we eat
a lot of fresh fish caught locally everyday, and we eat salad with olive oil. Personally, I
was shocked when I came to England to see so many people eating burgers and chips!
o Well, actually I think thats a difficult question to answer I dont think there is
ONE thing that most people do. I think people do different things and it depends on your
age and where you live. I live near a tennis club and I love playing tennis so for me and
most of my friends, I suppose that playing tennis is the thing we do but thats not true for
most people people are very different.
Do you think competitive games are good or bad for children?
o Think Mmmm / Well / Actually ? Im not sure. / I havent really thought
about it.
o Refer to the question:
It depends which game
I think it depends on the child...
I think its impossible to give a general answer...
o Use an example. Well, actually I think it depends on the child not all children are
the same. Personally I enjoyed them I was good at tennis at not very good at football but I
didnt mind. I suppose that some children dont like them but some children dont like
Maths. In general I think theyre probably good.
Modern society is often called materialistic. Why do you think this is?
o I think they are probably called materialistic because people are interested in
material goods but Im absolutely convinced that this it true for all societies not just
modern ones. In other words I believe all societies are materialistic. If people have more
things now, its because modern society is richer and more successful, not because people
are more interested in things than before.
How do you think the Internet will affect buying patterns in the future?
o Well, actually, I have absolutely no idea. I suppose that people will buy more things
online but usually when people try to predict the future they are wrong ... and I certainly

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dont know Im convinced that people will still go shopping I think people enjoy it I
know I do.
What kind of possessions show status in your country?
o Well, actually thats a difficult question for me... because I havent really thought
about it very much.. but, I think its probably different for different people. For example, I
think for some people er.. having an expensive car a Lamborghini or a Ferrari shows
status, but for me for me it doesnt. Im not interested. For me, if somebody has a great
collection of books and er .. something which shows they have a lot of interests in different
subjects.. thats a very high .. high status for me.. thats something which I think is ..erm..
something to aspire too. So I think its difficult or impossible to give one simple answer.
How has education changed in your country in the last 10 years?
o Well, in the case of Britain I think thats a difficult question to answer because there
havent been a lot of changes in the last 10 years.
What changes do you foresee in education in the next 50 years?
o Well, I think this depends on what we mean by education
Some people think that new technology has brought more stress than benefits to
employed people nowadays. Would you agree or disagree? Why?
o It depends on which I think its impossible to generalise...
Who tends to enjoy national celebrations more young people or old people? Why?
o Well, actually I have never really thought about it. I think it is probably impossible
to say - at least I don't know. It depends on which celebration and which person. Probably
children like Christmas - because they get presents - but older people like Christmas too -
because they see their family and it is a happy time. (And I still like getting presents even
though I'm older). So I think it's impossible to generalise.
Do you think children should learn to play a musical instrument at school?
o Well, I haven't really thought about it much, but I don't think children should have
to learn a musical instrument. I think it should be optional - they can do if they want, or not
if they don't want.

English Proverbs:
Consider using proverbs in both writing and speaking tests. It is valuable tool to express your ideas in
genuine English manner; however, it should be used only if appropriate. You may consider using one
of the following introductory phrases:
Proverb states that:
An English proverb says:
May I refer you to the ancient proverb: .
You know the proverb, and it's true:
There is an old English proverb which says:
In the words of the old English proverb,
Here are some common English proverbs:
Absence makes the heart grow fonder (but makes the mind forget).
Action is the proper fruit of knowledge.
The apple never falls far from the tree.
Actions speak louder than words.
After dinner sit a while, after supper walk a mile.
All roads lead to Rome
All that glisters is not gold
An apple a day keeps the doctor away.

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As fit as a fiddle.
As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another
Before criticizing a man, walk a mile in his shoes.
Beginning is half done.
The belly has no ears.
The best of friends need not speak face to face.
The best things in life are free.
Better late than never.
Better the devil you know (than the one you don't).
Birds of a feather flock together.
Blood is thicker than water.
A burnt child dreads the fire.
Change is the only constant.
Decisions are never good or bad, consequences are.
Don't cross a bridge before you come to it
Don't take life too seriously; you'll never get out of it alive
Doctors make the worst patients
Each to his own taste
Early to bed and early to rise, makes a man healthy, wealthy and wise
Education is a progressive discovering of our own ignorance
Education makes machines which act like men and produces men who act like machines
An empty vessel makes the most noise
The English are a nation of shopkeepers (Attributed to Napoleon)
An Englishman's home is his castle. Variant of "A man's home is his castle."
Everything can be justified until it happens to you.
Everything changes; everything stays the same.
Everything good in life is either illegal, immoral, or fattening.
Failure is the stepping stone for success.
The first step to health is to know that we are sick.
A friend in need is a friend indeed.
Give a dog a bad name and he'll live up to it.
God cures and the physician takes the fee.
The grass is always greener on the other side... (Meaning: You will always want what you don't (or
can't) have.)
Health is wealth
Home is where the heart is
I complained I had no shoes until I met a man who had no feet.
If you want to judge a man's character, give him power.
Impossible itself says I'm Possible
It's better to be safe than sorry.
Justice delayed is justice denied
Knowledge is the best charity.
Life begins at forty.
Life is what you do while you're waiting to die.
Like father, like son.
A little knowledge is a dangerous thing.
A little pot is easily hot.
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Adel M Hasanin, MRCP (UK)

Loose lips sink ships.

Lead by example
A man is known by the company he keeps.
Measure twice, cut once.
Misery loves company.
The more things change, the more they stay the same.
The more you know, the more you know you don't know.
Nature, time, and patience are three great physicians.
Necessity is the mother of invention.
No pain, no gain.
An old dog will learn no tricks.
One good turn deserves another.
One man's terrorist is another man's freedom fighter. - Ronald Reagan
One rotten apple will spoil the whole barrel.
Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.
The pain o the little finger is felt by the entire body.
A paragraph should be like a lady's skirt: long enough to cover the essentials but short enough to
keep it interesting.
Proverbs are long life experiences, told in one short sentence.
Proverbs run in pairs (Every proverb seems to be contradicted by another proverb with an
opposed message).
Repetition is the mother of memory.
Revenge is a dish best served cold.
The road to hell is paved with good intentions.
Rome wasn't built in a day
Same trouble, different day.
Self trust is the first secret of success.
Slow but sure.
Spare the rod, spoil the child.
A stitch in time saves nine.
Stolen fruit is the sweetest.
Strike while the iron is hot.
Success is a journey not a destination.
Two heads are better than one.
Two things prolong your life: A quiet heart and a loving wife.
The way to a man's heart is through his stomach.
We must take the bad with the good.
What goes around comes around (you will eventually have to face the consequences of your
actions).
When in Rome, do as the Romans do.
The whole is greater than its parts.
Winning is earning. Losing is learning.

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