English at Home: Speaking

Showing posts with label Speaking. Show all posts

Sunday, 20 July 2025

✦ IELTS Topic: Boats & Sailing – 10 Useful Phrases

Set sail
e.g., We set sail just after sunrise for a day trip around the islands.
Calm waters
e.g., The boat moved smoothly across the calm waters.
Rough seas
e.g., The ferry was delayed due to rough seas and strong winds.
Sailing trip
e.g., We booked a weekend sailing trip along the coast.
Anchor the boat
e.g., We anchored the boat near a small beach and went for a swim.
Crew members
e.g., The crew members helped us get settled and explained the safety rules.
Luxury yacht
e.g., They rented a luxury yacht for their honeymoon cruise.
Fishing boat
e.g., The harbour was filled with colourful fishing boats returning at dawn.
On board
e.g., There were around twenty passengers on board the tour boat.
Dock at the harbour
e.g., We returned to dock at the harbour just before sunset.

✦ IELTS Speaking Practice – Boats & Sailing

Part 1: Introduction & Interview

Have you ever travelled by boat?
Are boats common in your area?
Would you enjoy going on a sailing trip?
Have you ever experienced rough weather at sea?
Do you prefer travelling on water or on land?

Part 2: Cue Card

Describe a time you travelled by boat or ship.
You should say:

where you went
what kind of boat it was
what you did on the journey
and explain how you felt about the experience.

✦ Sample Answers Using the Phrases

Part 1 Answers

1. Yes, I once took a sailing trip while on holiday in Greece.
2. Not really — we’re far from the coast, but there are a few fishing boats on the local river.
3. Definitely! I love the idea of being on board a small yacht in calm waters.
4. Yes, we hit rough seas on a ferry once. It was a bit scary!
5. I prefer land travel, but boats give a unique perspective.

Part 2 Sample Answer

A few years ago, I went on a half-day sailing trip while visiting Croatia. We set sail from a small town and spent the day exploring nearby islands.

The boat was a small luxury yacht, and there were about ten people on board. The crew members were helpful and told us about the local area.

The water was beautiful — completely calm — and we even stopped to anchor the boat so we could swim and have lunch.

At the end of the day, we docked at the harbour just as the sun was setting. It was peaceful, beautiful, and truly memorable.

✦ Comprehension Test: Boats & Sailing

1. "We set sail just after sunrise for a day trip around the islands."
Q: When did they leave?

2. "The boat moved smoothly across the calm waters."
Q: What was the water like?

3. "The ferry was delayed due to rough seas and strong winds."
Q: Why was the ferry delayed?

4. "We booked a weekend sailing trip along the coast."
Q: What kind of holiday did they choose?

5. "We anchored the boat near a small beach and went for a swim."
Q: What did they do with the boat?

6. "The crew members helped us get settled and explained the safety rules."
Q: Who assisted the passengers?

7. "They rented a luxury yacht for their honeymoon cruise."
Q: What kind of boat did they choose?

8. "The harbour was filled with colourful fishing boats returning at dawn."
Q: What kind of boats were in the harbour?

9. "There were around twenty passengers on board the tour boat."
Q: How many people were on the boat?

10. "We returned to dock at the harbour just before sunset."
Q: When did they finish the trip?

✦ Answer Key

In the early morning.
Smooth and peaceful.
Bad sea conditions.
A boat trip along the coast.
Stopped it near a beach.
The boat staff.
A very comfortable, high-end boat.
Boats used for catching fish.
Twenty.
At sunset

Friday, 18 July 2025

✦ IELTS Speaking Practice Test – Flights & Flying

Part 1: Introduction & Interview

Do you enjoy flying?
Have you ever taken a long flight?
Do you prefer the window or aisle seat?
What do you usually do during a flight?
How do you feel about airports?

Part 2: Cue Card

Describe a memorable flight you have taken.
You should say:

where you were going
what the flight was like
what you did during the flight
and explain why it was memorable.

✦ Sample Answers Using the Phrases

Part 1 Answers

1. Yes, I find flying exciting, especially when I get a window seat.
2. I’ve taken several long-haul flights, and I always bring something to read.
3. I prefer the window because I like watching the smooth landing and take-off.
4. I watch the in-flight entertainment and sometimes chat with the cabin crew.
5. Airports can be stressful, especially when airport security takes a long time.

Part 2 Sample Answer

Last year, I took a long-haul flight from London to Singapore for a holiday. I checked in early and passed through airport security, which took longer than expected.

Once on board, I found my window seat, which gave me a great view during take-off. The cabin crew were professional and offered drinks and snacks.

I spent most of the time watching in-flight entertainment, but I still felt jet lag when we landed.

The best part was the smooth landing after a 13-hour flight — I was impressed by the pilot’s skills. It was a memorable journey because it was my first time flying that far.

✦ Comprehension Test: Flights & Flying

1. "I showed my boarding pass at the gate and walked onto the plane."
Q: What was the speaker doing?

2. "I always bring a book and headphones for a long-haul flight."
Q: Why does the speaker prepare in advance?

3. "I prefer a window seat so I can look at the view during take-off."
Q: Where does the speaker like to sit?

4. "The cabin crew were friendly and offered snacks during the flight."
Q: What did the cabin crew do?

5. "After flying from London to Tokyo, I had terrible jet lag."
Q: What was the result of the long journey?

6. "The flight delay meant we arrived three hours later than planned."
Q: Why did they arrive late?

7. "Airport security was strict — we had to remove shoes and electronics."
Q: What made the process strict?

8. "I packed everything into my carry-on luggage to avoid checking a bag."
Q: Why did the speaker avoid checking luggage?

9. "The in-flight entertainment included movies, games, and music."
Q: What was available on board?

10. "Despite the bad weather, the pilot made a smooth landing."
Q: What made the landing impressive?

✦ Answer Key

Getting ready to board the flight.
To stay entertained or comfortable.
By the window of the plane.
Gave snacks and were polite.
Felt tired or out of sync after flying.
The flight was delayed.
Extra security checks.
To travel more easily.
Movies and other activities.
The pilot landed safely despite challenges

Wednesday, 16 July 2025

✦ IELTS Topic: Cars, Traffic & Driving – 10 Useful Phrases

Heavy traffic
e.g., We were stuck in heavy traffic for over an hour.
Rush hour
e.g., I try to avoid driving during rush hour whenever possible.
Traffic congestion
e.g., Traffic congestion is a major problem in the city centre.
Pedestrian crossing
e.g., Drivers must stop at the pedestrian crossing for people to cross safely.
Speeding fine
e.g., He got a speeding fine for going 20 km/h over the limit.
Driver’s licence
e.g., You can’t rent a car unless you have a valid driver’s licence.
Public transport alternatives
e.g., More people would leave their cars at home if there were better public transport alternatives.
Road rage
e.g., Road rage incidents have increased due to poor driving habits.
Fuel-efficient vehicle
e.g., Many people are choosing fuel-efficient vehicles to save money and protect the environment.
Parking space shortage
e.g., Finding parking in the city is difficult due to a shortage of spaces.

✦ IELTS Speaking Practice Test – Cars & Traffic

Part 1: Introduction & Interview

Do you drive often?
Is traffic a problem in your city?
How do you usually get around?
What rules should drivers always follow?
Have you ever taken a driving test?

Part 2: Cue Card

Describe a journey you took by car.
You should say:

where you went
who you were with
what happened during the journey
and explain how you felt about it.

✦ Sample Answers Using the Phrases

Part 1 Answers

1. Yes, I drive to work most days, although I try to avoid rush hour.
2. Definitely. We deal with heavy traffic and parking space shortages all the time.
3. I use a fuel-efficient vehicle, but sometimes I take the train — it's one of the few public transport alternatives available.
4. Drivers should always stop at pedestrian crossings and avoid speeding.
5. Yes, I passed my driving test a few years ago after lots of practice.

Part 2 Sample Answer

Last summer, I went on a road trip with my family to the countryside. We set off early to avoid rush hour, but we still hit some traffic congestion near the city.

Luckily, we were in my dad’s fuel-efficient vehicle, so we didn’t waste much petrol even though we were moving slowly.

Along the way, we passed lots of signs reminding drivers to stop at pedestrian crossings, and we even saw a bit of road rage when two drivers argued near a roundabout.

Despite that, it was a great trip. I enjoyed the scenery, and having a reliable car made the whole journey smooth and relaxing.

✦ Comprehension Test: Cars, Traffic & Driving

1. "We were stuck in heavy traffic for over an hour."
Q: What was the problem?

2. "I try to avoid driving during rush hour whenever possible."
Q: Why does the speaker avoid certain times?

3. "Traffic congestion is a major problem in the city centre."
Q: What happens in the city centre?

4. "Drivers must stop at the pedestrian crossing for people to cross safely."
Q: What rule should drivers follow?

5. "He got a speeding fine for going 20 km/h over the limit."
Q: What was the penalty?

6. "You can’t rent a car unless you have a valid driver’s licence."
Q: What is required to rent a car?

7. "More people would leave their cars at home if there were better public transport alternatives."
Q: What would help reduce car use?

8. "Road rage incidents have increased due to poor driving habits."
Q: What has caused road rage?

9. "Many people are choosing fuel-efficient vehicles to save money and protect the environment."
Q: Why do people choose certain cars?

10. "Finding parking in the city is difficult due to a shortage of spaces."
Q: What problem do drivers face?

✦ Answer Key

Traffic was slow or stopped.
Because roads are busiest at that time.
Too many vehicles causing delays.
Stop to let people cross.
A fine for driving too fast.
A legal driving document.
Better buses or trains.
Bad driving and stress.
To use less fuel and pollute less.
Not enough places to park.

✦ IELTS Topic: Weather – 10 Useful Phrases

Bitterly cold
e.g., It was bitterly cold last night — well below freezing.
Scorching hot
e.g., It gets scorching hot here in August — almost unbearable.
Mild and pleasant
e.g., Spring is usually mild and pleasant in this part of the country.
Pouring with rain
e.g., We couldn’t go outside because it was pouring with rain.
Overcast skies
e.g., The whole day was gloomy with overcast skies.
A light breeze
e.g., A light breeze made the walk more enjoyable despite the heat.
Thunderstorm rolling in
e.g., We stayed indoors as a thunderstorm was rolling in.
Changeable weather
e.g., The weather in the mountains is very changeable — sunny one minute, raining the next.
Freezing fog
e.g., Driving was dangerous this morning because of freezing fog.
A spell of sunshine
e.g., After days of rain, we finally had a spell of sunshine.

✦ IELTS Speaking Practice Test – Weather

Part 1: Introduction & Interview

What’s the weather like where you live?
Do you prefer hot or cold weather?
What do you usually do on rainy days?
How does weather affect your mood?
Have you ever experienced extreme weather?

Part 2: Cue Card

Describe a time when the weather affected your plans.
You should say:

what the weather was like
what your plans were
what you did instead
and explain how you felt about it.

✦ Sample Answers Using the Phrases

Part 1 Answers

1. It’s usually mild and pleasant, though we do get some overcast skies in winter.
2. I prefer warm weather, but not when it’s scorching hot.
3. On rainy days — especially when it’s pouring with rain — I like to stay indoors and read.
4. Weather definitely affects my mood. A spell of sunshine lifts my spirits.
5. Yes, once I got stuck in a thunderstorm while hiking. It was scary!

Part 2 Sample Answer

Last autumn, my friends and I planned to have a picnic in the park. The forecast said it would be mild and pleasant, but just as we arrived, it started pouring with rain.

Within minutes, the sky turned dark and overcast, and we could see a thunderstorm rolling in from the west. It wasn’t safe to stay outside, so we packed up and went to a café instead.

Although we were disappointed, we made the best of it. I remember saying how changeable the weather can be in our city — you never know what to expect.

✦ Comprehension Test: Weather Vocabulary

1. "It was bitterly cold last night — well below freezing."
Q: How cold was it?

2. "It gets scorching hot here in August — almost unbearable."
Q: What is the summer like?

3. "Spring is usually mild and pleasant in this part of the country."
Q: How is spring described?

4. "We couldn’t go outside because it was pouring with rain."
Q: Why did they stay indoors?

5. "The whole day was gloomy with overcast skies."
Q: What was the sky like?

6. "A light breeze made the walk more enjoyable despite the heat."
Q: What helped make the walk better?

7. "We stayed indoors as a thunderstorm was rolling in."
Q: Why did they avoid going out?

8. "The weather in the mountains is very changeable — sunny one minute, raining the next."
Q: What’s the weather like in the mountains?

9. "Driving was dangerous this morning because of freezing fog."
Q: What made driving dangerous?

10. "After days of rain, we finally had a spell of sunshine."
Q: What happened after several rainy days?

✦ Answer Key

Extremely cold, below zero.
Very hot and uncomfortable.
Nice and comfortable.
Because of heavy rain.
Cloudy and grey.
A soft wind cooled things down.
Because of the approaching storm.
It changes quickly and unexpectedly.
The fog was icy and thick.
The sun came out for a while.

Monday, 14 July 2025

✦ IELTS Topic: The Coast – 10 Useful Phrases

Sandy shoreline
e.g., We spent the afternoon walking along the sandy shoreline.
Rocky cliffs
e.g., The rocky cliffs offered spectacular views of the ocean.
Coastal town
e.g., She grew up in a small coastal town known for fishing.
Waves crashing against the shore
e.g., I love falling asleep to the sound of waves crashing against the shore.
Seaside resort
e.g., They booked a week at a luxury seaside resort.
Seagulls calling overhead
e.g., You could hear the seagulls calling overhead as we ate by the harbour.
Stretch of coastline
e.g., This stretch of coastline is protected as a nature reserve.
Tide coming in
e.g., We had to move our things because the tide was coming in quickly.
Fishing village
e.g., The fishing village still maintains its traditional way of life.
Harbour full of boats
e.g., The harbour was full of boats swaying gently in the water.

✦ IELTS Speaking Practice Test – The Coast

Part 1: Introduction & Interview

Do you like visiting the coast?
What activities do people enjoy at the beach?
Is there a popular coastal area in your country?
Would you prefer to live near the sea or inland?
Have you ever stayed in a seaside resort?

Part 2: Cue Card

Describe a coastal place you’ve visited.
You should say:

where it is
what it looks like
what you did there
and explain why you enjoyed it.

✦ Sample Answers Using the Phrases

Part 1 Answers

1. Yes, I find the coast very relaxing, especially when I can walk along a sandy shoreline.
2. People love swimming, sunbathing, and listening to the waves crashing against the shore.
3. We have a famous coastal town that’s popular in summer.
4. I’d prefer to live by the sea—it’s peaceful, and I love the sound of seagulls calling overhead.
5. Yes, once I stayed in a beautiful seaside resort with ocean views.

Part 2 Sample Answer

One coastal place I’ll never forget is a small fishing village I visited in southern Italy. It had narrow streets, colourful houses, and a harbour full of boats.

We arrived just as the tide was coming in, and the sun was setting. You could hear seagulls calling overhead, and the smell of the sea was everywhere.

I walked along the rocky cliffs for a bit, then relaxed on the sandy shoreline. The whole stretch of coastline felt quiet and untouched.

I enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere, the fresh seafood, and the simplicity of life by the sea.

✦ Comprehension Test: The Coast

1. "We spent the afternoon walking along the sandy shoreline."
Q: What kind of surface did they walk on?

2. "The rocky cliffs offered spectacular views of the ocean."
Q: What did the cliffs provide?

3. "She grew up in a small coastal town known for fishing."
Q: What kind of town did she grow up in?

4. "I love falling asleep to the sound of waves crashing against the shore."
Q: What sound helps the speaker relax?

5. "They booked a week at a luxury seaside resort."
Q: Where did they stay?

6. "You could hear the seagulls calling overhead as we ate by the harbour."
Q: What birds were mentioned?

7. "This stretch of coastline is protected as a nature reserve."
Q: What is special about this coastline?

8. "We had to move our things because the tide was coming in quickly."
Q: Why did they move?

9. "The fishing village still maintains its traditional way of life."
Q: What is unique about the village?

10. "The harbour was full of boats swaying gently in the water."
Q: What was the harbour like?

✦ Answer Key

A sandy beach or coastal path.
Amazing ocean views.
A town by the sea.
The sound of ocean waves.
A luxury hotel by the sea.
Seagulls.
It’s protected for nature.
The sea level was rising.
It keeps old traditions.
Full of boats and calm water.

🔗 Linking Words by Function

Using the right linking words in IELTS Writing Task 2 helps you organize ideas and show relationships between them. Below are 30 essential linkers, grouped by purpose, with examples.

✎ CONTRAST (Showing opposite ideas)

However – Many people enjoy fast food. However, it can lead to health problems.
On the other hand – Some believe exams motivate students. On the other hand, others think they cause stress.
Although – Although he studied hard, he failed the test.
Whereas – Cats are independent, whereas dogs need constant attention.
Nevertheless – The task was difficult. Nevertheless, she completed it on time.

✎ EXAMPLE (Introducing evidence or support)

For example – Many countries face pollution problems. For example, Delhi often has dangerous air quality.
For instance – Some students need extra support. For instance, those with learning difficulties.
Such as – Junk food such as chips and soda is popular among teens.
To illustrate – To illustrate, internet access has allowed students to learn from home.
Namely – Two cities, namely Paris and Rome, have introduced bike-sharing schemes.

✎ ADDITION / ILLUSTRATION (Adding or explaining ideas)

Moreover – Smoking is harmful. Moreover, it affects those around the smoker.
Furthermore – The project is over budget. Furthermore, it is behind schedule.
In addition – Students need strong writing skills. In addition, they must learn to research well.
Also – She works and also studies at university.
Not only... but also – Not only is he intelligent, but also very hardworking.

✎ SEQUENCE / ORDER (Organizing points)

Firstly – Firstly, governments must invest in education.
Secondly – Secondly, health care should be accessible to all.
Next – Next, the data must be analyzed.
Then – The researchers collected results. Then, they wrote the report.
Finally – Finally, the proposal was approved by the board.

✎ REASON / CAUSE (Explaining why)

Because – He failed because he didn’t study.
Since – Since there was no evidence, the claim was dismissed.
As – As it was raining, the match was cancelled.
Due to – The delay was due to heavy traffic.
Owing to – The school closed owing to the storm.

✎ RESULT / EFFECT (Showing consequences)

Therefore – The plan failed. Therefore, we need a new one.
As a result – The company lost money. As a result, several employees were laid off.
So – He didn’t set an alarm, so he overslept.
Thus – It was poorly planned. Thus, it didn’t succeed.

✎ CONCLUSION (Summing up or ending an idea)

In conclusion – In conclusion, the benefits of regular exercise outweigh the drawbacks.

📒 Linking Word Revision Test (30 Questions)

Instructions: Fill in the blank with the most appropriate linking word.

She was tired. ______, she kept working.
______, more funding is required to improve schools.
He enjoys extreme sports ______ skydiving and rock climbing.
I missed the bus, ______ I arrived late.
______ the rain, the match was cancelled.
Some people prefer cities. ______, others enjoy rural life.
______, we should review the data.
The project is expensive. ______, it is necessary.
The meeting was postponed ______ the manager was sick.
The room was cold. ______, we turned on the heater.
______ studying hard, she failed the exam.
I passed the test. ______, I celebrated.
He didn't answer the phone, ______ I sent a text.
The policy failed. ______, changes were made.
She is not only smart ______ also kind.
______, the results will be published.
It was expensive. ______, I bought it.
I studied all night ______ I wanted to pass.
______ the results are positive, more research is needed.
The product sold poorly. ______, it was withdrawn.
I ate too much. ______, I felt sick.
I couldn’t sleep ______ the noise.
The exam was hard. ______, I passed.
She paints. She ______ teaches art classes.
He missed the train ______ he overslept.
______, we can say that mobile phones have changed communication.
______, they sent the wrong order.
______, you mix the ingredients.
______, add the toppings and bake.
______ she has little experience, she got the job.

🚀 Answer Key

Nevertheless
In addition
Such as
So
Due to
On the other hand
Firstly
However
Because
Therefore
Although
As a result
So
Thus
But
Finally
Nevertheless
Because
Although
As a result
Therefore
Owing to
Nevertheless
Also
Because
In conclusion
For example
Firstly
Then
Although

✦ IELTS Topic: Cities & Towns – Roads, Streets & Bridges (10 Useful Phrases)

Tree-lined avenues
e.g., The tree-lined avenues in the old part of town are lovely to walk along.
Busy intersection
e.g., This busy intersection causes traffic jams during rush hour.
Pedestrian-friendly streets
e.g., The city has invested in pedestrian-friendly streets and bike lanes.
Narrow alleyways
e.g., The old town is full of narrow alleyways and cobbled paths.
Multi-lane highway
e.g., We took the multi-lane highway to reach the city in under an hour.
Suspension bridge
e.g., The suspension bridge connects the two districts across the river.
Roundabout
e.g., There’s a large roundabout near the shopping centre that keeps traffic flowing.
Underground tunnel
e.g., The new underground tunnel has reduced congestion in the city centre.
Footbridge
e.g., A small footbridge crosses the canal and leads to the park.
Grid system of streets
e.g., The city was planned with a grid system of streets, making it easy to navigate.

✦ IELTS Speaking Practice Test – Roads & Infrastructure

Part 1: Introduction & Interview

Are the roads in your city well-maintained?
Do you prefer walking or driving in your town?
Are there any famous streets or bridges in your area?
What are the traffic conditions like during the week?
How has transportation changed in your city over time?

Part 2: Cue Card

Describe a road, street, or bridge you know well.
You should say:

where it is
what it looks like
how it is used
and explain why it is important or memorable.

✦ Sample Answers Using the Phrases

Part 1 Answers

1. Yes, especially in the centre. There are pedestrian-friendly streets and clear signs.
2. I prefer walking, especially down the tree-lined avenues near my house.
3. We have an iconic suspension bridge that tourists always photograph.
4. Traffic can be heavy at busy intersections, especially at rush hour.
5. The city has built new multi-lane highways and an underground tunnel to reduce congestion.

Part 2 Sample Answer

One bridge I know well is the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco. It’s a famous suspension bridge painted bright red, stretching across the bay.

I visited it last summer, and we walked across using the pedestrian-friendly walkway. It offers amazing views of the city and ocean.

The road over the bridge is wide, almost like a multi-lane highway, and handles thousands of cars each day. It’s an important link for commuters and tourists.

What makes it memorable is not just the engineering, but the feeling of standing on a bridge that’s recognised all over the world.

✦ Comprehension Test: Roads, Streets & Bridges

1. "The tree-lined avenues in the old part of town are lovely to walk along."
Q: What makes the avenues attractive?

2. "This busy intersection causes traffic jams during rush hour."
Q: When does the intersection become a problem?

3. "The city has invested in pedestrian-friendly streets and bike lanes."
Q: What changes has the city made?

4. "The old town is full of narrow alleyways and cobbled paths."
Q: What kind of paths are in the old town?

5. "We took the multi-lane highway to reach the city in under an hour."
Q: What helped them travel quickly?

6. "The suspension bridge connects the two districts across the river."
Q: What does the bridge do?

7. "There’s a large roundabout near the shopping centre that keeps traffic flowing."
Q: Why is the roundabout useful?

8. "The new underground tunnel has reduced congestion in the city centre."
Q: What effect has the tunnel had?

9. "A small footbridge crosses the canal and leads to the park."
Q: What is the function of the footbridge?

10. "The city was planned with a grid system of streets, making it easy to navigate."
Q: What makes the city easy to get around?

✦ Answer Key

Trees make the street shaded and beautiful.
During peak traffic times.
Better for walkers and cyclists.
Small, narrow walking paths.
A wide road with many lanes.
Links areas across water.
Helps prevent traffic build-up.
Less traffic in the central area.
Allows people to walk over water.
Straight, organised street layout.