IELTS Free Online Speaking Practice
Part 1: Introduction and Warm-up
What is your name? Can you tell me something about where you live or come from?
Do you work or are you a student? If you work, what do you do and how long have you been in this job/line of work? If you study, what are you studying and what attracted you to this subject area/course?
What kind of music do you like? Can you tell me about your favourite musician or band?
Part 2: Cue Card
Topic: Describe a place you have visited that had a strong impact on you. You should say:
Where the place is located
How and when you visited the place
What you saw and experienced there
Explain why this place had a strong impact on you
Part 3: Discussion
Some people prefer to visit famous places or cities, while others prefer quiet and less known destinations. Which one do you think is better? Why?
In your opinion, what are the advantages and disadvantages of travelling to less known places rather than famous tourist destinations?
How important is it for people to travel and experience new cultures? What benefits can a person gain from this experience according to you?
Please note that the above questions are just an example of the format and structure of an IELTS Speaking test. Actual questions in the test may vary, but they will follow a similar structure.
IELTS Free Online Writing Practice
Topic: "Should governments provide free public transportation?"
Model Answer:
In today's world, where environmental concerns are at the forefront of many nations' agendas, a question arises whether governments should provide free public transportation as an effective means of reducing carbon emissions and alleviating traffic congestion. While it is clear that offering free public transport could have numerous benefits, there are several potential drawbacks to consider. This essay will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of providing free public transport before reaching a conclusion.
On the one hand, making public transportation free can result in several benefits. Firstly, it would encourage people to use public transport instead of their private vehicles, which would lead to a reduction in carbon emissions. The environmental impact is significant given that private vehicles contribute significantly to air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. Secondly, providing free public transportation can be seen as an equitable solution to the issue of socio-economic disparity since it enables people from all walks of life to access public transport without worrying about the cost. This can lead to a more inclusive society where everyone has the opportunity to benefit from the conveniences of modern urban living.
However, there are also potential downsides to providing free public transportation. One major concern is the strain on government budgets. The cost of operating and maintaining public transport systems is substantial, and if these costs fall entirely on the government, it could lead to cuts in other essential services or increased taxation. Additionally, free public transport may lead to overcrowding, especially during peak hours, as more people would be inclined to use this mode of transportation. This could result in longer waiting times, reduced efficiency and ultimately, dissatisfaction among users.
In conclusion, while providing free public transportation undoubtedly comes with a range of benefits such as reducing carbon emissions and promoting social equity, there are also valid concerns regarding the financial burden on governments and potential overcrowding. Therefore, it is essential to weigh these factors carefully and consider alternative solutions, such as incentivizing the use of public transport through discounted fares or subsidies for low-income earners, before making a definitive decision.
Score: Based on IELTS scoring standards, this model answer would receive a Band 9 score, as it demonstrates a clear understanding of the topic, provides well-structured arguments and counterarguments, uses appropriate vocabulary and grammar, and effectively reaches a conclusion.
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