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Full Video Interview: Questions and Answers

A full IELTS Speaking Interview Sample

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Presented By: Mehdi Safavi

Presented By: Mehdi Safavi

May 6, 2024

What's your name?

Um, my name is John. John Peterson.

Where are you from?

Well, I'm originally from, uh, New York City. You know, the Big Apple? But, um, right now I’m living in San Francisco for work.

PART 1

The examiner asks you about yourself, your home, work or studies, and other familiar topics.

 

Drinks

What do you like to drink with your dinner? [Why?]

I usually like to have a glass of water with my dinner because it’s refreshing and, you know, it’s the healthiest option. But if it’s a special occasion or a nice meal, I enjoy pairing it with a glass of red wine. It complements the flavors of the food really well and adds to the overall dining experience.

Do you drink a lot of water every day? [Why/Why not?]

Yeah, I do try to drink a lot of water every day. It's important to stay hydrated, and I find that it helps me feel more energized and focused throughout the day. Plus, it's just a good habit to have for overall health, you know? So, I always keep a water bottle handy, whether I'm at work or on the go.

Do you prefer drinking tea or coffee? [Why?]

I definitely prefer drinking coffee. There's something about the rich flavor and aroma that I really enjoy, especially in the morning. It gives me a nice energy boost to start the day. But, you know, I do like tea as well, especially herbal teas in the evening when I want something calming and caffeine-free. Overall, though, coffee is my go-to.

If people visit you in your home, what do you usually offer them to drink? [Why/Why not?]

When people visit, I usually like to offer them a variety of options depending on what they prefer. I always have water available, of course, and I'll often have some fresh juice or soda on hand. If they're into hot drinks, I’ve got both coffee and tea ready to go, and I can brew up a fresh pot in no time. For friends who enjoy a drink, I might offer a glass of wine or a cold beer, especially if we’re having a meal together. I try to make sure there’s something for everyone.

PART 2

Describe a monument (e.g., a statue or sculpture) that you like.
You should say:
    what this monument is
    where this monument is
    what it looks like
and explain why you like this monument.

You will have to talk about the topic for one to two minutes.
You have one minute to think about what you are going to say.
You can make some notes to help you if you wish.

One monument that I really like is the Statue of Liberty. It's located on Liberty Island in New York Harbor, and it’s one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world.

The statue itself stands about 93 meters tall from the ground to the tip of the torch, including the pedestal. Lady Liberty, as she’s often called, is a representation of the Roman goddess Libertas, and she holds a torch in her right hand, symbolizing enlightenment. In her left hand, she holds a tablet inscribed with the date of the American Declaration of Independence, July 4, 1776. Her crown has seven spikes representing the seven continents and oceans, symbolizing global liberty. At her feet lies a broken chain, signifying freedom from oppression.

One of the things I really love about the Statue of Liberty is its symbolism. It was a gift from France to the United States and represents the friendship between the two nations. More importantly, it embodies ideals like freedom, democracy, and opportunity, which are central to the American spirit. The statue has been a welcoming sight for millions of immigrants arriving by sea, offering them hope for a new life in America.

When you visit the island and see the statue up close, you can sense the magnitude of its historical and cultural significance. Plus, the view from the crown is just incredible, offering a breathtaking panorama of New York City and the harbor.

Overall, the Statue of Liberty is not just an impressive monument because of its size and design, but also because of what it stands for. It’s an enduring symbol of hope and freedom, and that's why I find it so inspiring.

PART 3

The examiner asks you about yourself, your home, work or studies, and other familiar topics.

Discussion Topics

Public monuments

What kinds of monuments do tourists in your country enjoy visiting?

Tourists in the United States enjoy visiting a wide variety of monuments, ranging from iconic historical landmarks like the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument in Washington, D.C., to natural wonders like the Grand Canyon and Mount Rushmore. In New York City, the Statue of Liberty remains a popular attraction, symbolizing freedom and democracy. Meanwhile, sites like the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, and the Liberty Bell in Philadelphia offer unique glimpses into the diverse history and culture of the country. These monuments appeal to visitors due to their historical significance, architectural beauty, and the stories they represent.

Why do you think there are often statues of famous people in public places?

Statues of famous people are often placed in public spaces to honor their contributions to society and keep their legacy alive. They serve as a visual reminder of the impact these individuals have had in various fields like politics, art, science, and social justice. By placing them in prominent locations, communities can inspire future generations and celebrate shared values such as courage, innovation, and perseverance. Additionally, these statues help educate the public about historical figures and their accomplishments, fostering a sense of national pride and collective memory.

Do you agree that old monuments and buildings should always be preserved?

I agree that old monuments and buildings should generally be preserved because they provide a tangible link to our history, offering insight into past societies and cultural heritage. Preserving them allows us to maintain a sense of identity and continuity while educating future generations about significant historical events and architectural styles. However, I also believe that practical considerations like safety, urban development needs, and the costs of maintenance should be factored into decisions regarding preservation. In some cases, adaptive reuse or careful integration into modern infrastructure can strike a balance between preservation and progress.

Architecture

Why is architecture such a popular university subject?

Architecture is a popular university subject because it combines creativity with practical problem-solving skills, appealing to students interested in both art and science. It allows students to design spaces that are functional, aesthetically pleasing, and sustainable, addressing real-world challenges like urbanization and environmental impact. The field also offers diverse career opportunities, from urban planning to interior design, making it attractive for those looking for both stability and creative fulfillment. Additionally, architecture students have the chance to leave a lasting legacy through their work, which can influence how communities live and interact for generations.

In what ways has the design of homes changed in recent years?

The design of homes has evolved significantly in recent years, reflecting changes in technology, environmental awareness, and lifestyle preferences. One major trend is the shift towards sustainability, with homes incorporating energy-efficient technologies, sustainable materials, and green spaces. Smart home technology has also become prevalent, allowing homeowners to control various aspects of their home environments through digital devices, enhancing convenience and energy efficiency. Additionally, there's a growing preference for open-plan layouts that foster a more communal and flexible living space, adapting to the diverse needs of modern families. Architecturally, there’s an increasing inclination towards minimalist design, emphasizing clean lines and functionality. These changes reflect a broader societal shift towards more conscious living, both environmentally and socially.

To what extent does the design of buildings affect people's moods?

The design of buildings can significantly affect people's moods and well-being. Well-lit spaces with ample natural light often enhance productivity and elevate mood, while cramped or poorly lit environments can lead to feelings of discomfort and stress. Architectural elements like high ceilings, open layouts, and thoughtful color schemes create a sense of spaciousness and calm. Furthermore, the use of natural materials and biophilic design, which incorporates plants and views of nature, can foster relaxation and reduce anxiety. In public spaces, the arrangement of communal areas and pathways can encourage social interaction or, conversely, create a sense of isolation. Therefore, architects and designers are increasingly aware of the psychological impact of their designs and strive to create environments that promote positive emotions and overall well-being.

Useful Words from the Interview

Upper-intermediate level words (Oxford 3000)

Here are the meanings and examples for each of the words:

1. adapting
– Meaning: changing something to fit a new situation or purpose
– Example: The company is adapting its products to meet customer needs.

2. addressing
– Meaning: dealing with or focusing on a particular issue
– Example: The government is addressing the problem of unemployment.

3. appeal
– Meaning: an urgent request for help or a quality that makes something attractive
– Example: The charity made an appeal for donations to help flood victims.

4. appealing
– Meaning: attractive or interesting
– Example: The idea of working abroad is appealing to many young people.

5. aspects
– Meaning: different parts or features of something
– Example: The project will focus on the environmental aspects of city planning.

6. broader
– Meaning: wider or more general
– Example: The new policy will have a broader impact on the economy.

7. conscious
– Meaning: aware of and noticing something
– Example: She became conscious of someone watching her from the shadows.

8. considerations
– Meaning: things to think about before making a decision
– Example: Safety is one of the most important considerations when buying a car.

9. contributions
– Meaning: something given or done to help others or a cause
– Example: His contributions to the science field are well known.

10. courage
– Meaning: the ability to face danger or difficulty without fear
– Example: She showed great courage when she stood up to the bully.

11. emphasizing
– Meaning: giving special importance to something
– Example: The teacher is emphasizing the importance of good study habits.

12. enhance
– Meaning: to improve the quality, value, or level of something
– Example: They want to enhance their English skills by practicing daily.

13. enhancing
– Meaning: improving the quality, value, or level of something
– Example: Enhancing teamwork in the company has increased productivity.

14. extent
– Meaning: the amount or degree to which something happens
– Example: They were surprised by the extent of the damage caused by the fire.

15. flexible
– Meaning: able to change easily according to the situation
– Example: Having a flexible schedule makes it easier to manage work and family.

16. freedom
– Meaning: the right to do or say what you want without restriction
– Example: The new laws aim to protect people’s freedom of speech.

17. Furthermore
– Meaning: in addition; moreover
– Example: The book is informative, and furthermore, it is entertaining.

18. Grand
– Meaning: large and impressive
– Example: The palace has grand halls decorated with beautiful paintings.

19. honor
– Meaning: high respect or a sense of pride and achievement
– Example: It was an honor to receive the award for best actor.

20. ideals
– Meaning: beliefs about what is perfect or most important
– Example: She holds strong ideals about honesty and fairness.

21. increasingly
– Meaning: more and more over time
– Example: People are becoming increasingly aware of climate change.

22. insight
– Meaning: a clear understanding of something
– Example: Her book provides an insight into the daily lives of farmers.

23. inspire
– Meaning: to make someone feel motivated to do something
– Example: His story of overcoming challenges will inspire others.

24. inspiring
– Meaning: making people feel motivated or encouraged
– Example: The inspiring speech motivated the students to work hard.

25. justice
– Meaning: fair treatment or behavior
– Example: The protesters demanded justice for the victims of the attack.

26. maintain
– Meaning: to keep something in good condition or continue at the same level
– Example: He tries to maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating well and exercising.

27. Mount
– Meaning: to organize or begin something
– Example: The police are planning to mount a campaign against street crime.

28. overall
– Meaning: taking everything into account; in general
– Example: The overall quality of the product is good, but it could be improved.

29. Overall
– Meaning: taking everything into account; in general
– Example: Overall, she did well in her exams, even though math was challenging.

30. preserved
– Meaning: kept in good condition or maintained
– Example: The ancient artifacts were preserved in a special museum.

31. Preserving
– Meaning: keeping something in good condition or maintaining it
– Example: Preserving old buildings helps maintain the city’s cultural heritage.

32. ranging
– Meaning: varying within certain limits
– Example: The store sells products ranging from kitchen items to electronics.

33. regarding
– Meaning: about or concerning something
– Example: I have a question regarding your new policy on refunds.

34. schemes
– Meaning: plans or systems for doing or organizing something
– Example: The government has introduced new housing schemes for low-income families.

35. significant
– Meaning: important or noticeable
– Example: There was a significant increase in student enrollment this year.

36. significantly
– Meaning: in a way that is important or noticeable
– Example: The new regulations have significantly affected the car industry.

37. strike
– Meaning: to stop working as a protest or to hit something
– Example: The workers decided to strike for better pay and conditions.

38. unique
– Meaning: being the only one of its kind
– Example: Each fingerprint is unique to an individual person.

39. urban
– Meaning: related to a city or town
– Example: Urban areas often have more job opportunities than rural areas.

40. visual
– Meaning: related to seeing or sight
– Example: The movie has great visual effects that make it exciting to watch.

Upper-intermediate level words (Oxford 5000)

Here’s an easy-to-understand meaning and example for each of the new words:

1. Additionally
– Meaning: in addition; also
– Example: The book is informative and, additionally, it’s entertaining.

2. anxiety
– Meaning: a feeling of worry or nervousness
– Example: She feels a lot of anxiety before giving a presentation.

3. awareness
– Meaning: knowledge or understanding of a situation or subject
– Example: Public awareness of climate change has increased over the years.

4. boost
– Meaning: to increase or improve something
– Example: Taking vitamins can help boost your immune system.

5. convenience
– Meaning: the quality of being easy or suitable
– Example: Online shopping offers convenience to busy customers.

6. creativity
– Meaning: the ability to come up with new and imaginative ideas
– Example: The artist is known for her creativity and unique style.

7. democracy
– Meaning: a system of government where people vote to choose their leaders
– Example: Voting is an important part of any democracy.

8. diverse
– Meaning: showing a variety of different types
– Example: The university has a diverse group of students from many countries.

9. evolved
– Meaning: changed or developed gradually over time
– Example: The company has evolved from a small shop into a global brand.

10. flavor
– Meaning: the taste of food or drink
– Example: Chocolate is my favorite flavor of ice cream.

11. flavors
– Meaning: different tastes of food or drink
– Example: The restaurant offers many flavors of sauces for the dishes.

12. Golden
– Meaning: bright yellow or shiny, like gold; special or valuable
– Example: The Golden Gate Bridge is a famous landmark in San Francisco.

13. Harbor
– Meaning: a place by the coast where ships can be safely anchored
– Example: Sydney Harbor is known for its beautiful views and famous opera house.

14. harbor
– Meaning: to keep something in your mind, especially negative feelings
– Example: She doesn’t harbor any anger towards her old friend.

15. incorporates
– Meaning: includes or adds as a part of something
– Example: The new design incorporates feedback from customers.

16. incorporating
– Meaning: including or adding something as a part of a larger whole
– Example: The chef is incorporating new ingredients into his dishes.

17. Independence
– Meaning: the state of being free from control by others
– Example: The country celebrates its Independence Day on July 4th.

18. infrastructure
– Meaning: the basic systems and structures needed for a country or organization to function
– Example: The government is investing in improving transportation infrastructure.

19. innovation
– Meaning: the introduction of new ideas, methods, or products
– Example: Technological innovation is changing the way we live.

20. interact
– Meaning: to communicate or work together with others
– Example: The new software allows users to interact with the system more easily.

21. interaction
– Meaning: communication or direct involvement with someone or something
– Example: The teacher encouraged more interaction between students.

22. monument
– Meaning: a structure built to remember and honor important people or events
– Example: The monument was erected in memory of the soldiers who died.

23. Monument
– Meaning: a structure or statue to remember and honor important people or events (capitalized when it is part of a specific name)
– Example: The Washington Monument is a popular tourist attraction in Washington, D.C.

24. monuments
– Meaning: structures or statues built to remember and honor important people or events
– Example: There are many ancient monuments in Rome.

25. preference
– Meaning: a greater liking for one option over another
– Example: My preference is to work from home instead of the office.

26. preferences
– Meaning: things that someone likes more than others
– Example: People have different preferences when it comes to food.

27. pride
– Meaning: a feeling of deep satisfaction and pleasure about an achievement
– Example: She takes pride in her work as a nurse.

28. psychological
– Meaning: related to the mind or mental health
– Example: The accident had psychological effects on the victim.

29. significance
– Meaning: importance or meaning
– Example: The discovery of this new species is of great significance to scientists.

30. sustainable
– Meaning: able to be maintained or continued without causing harm to the environment
– Example: The company is working on sustainable solutions to reduce waste.

C1 Level English words (Advanced)

Here are the meanings and examples for the additional words:

1. accomplishments
– Meaning: things successfully done or achieved
– Example: Her many accomplishments include writing two best-selling books.

2. architectural
– Meaning: related to the design and construction of buildings
– Example: The city is known for its rich architectural heritage.

3. Architectural
– Meaning: related to the design and construction of buildings (capitalized when part of a specific name)
– Example: Architectural Digest is a popular magazine about home design.

4. collective
– Meaning: done or shared by all members of a group
– Example: The workers made a collective effort to finish the project on time.

5. complements
– Meaning: adds something to improve or make it perfect
– Example: A glass of white wine perfectly complements the fish dish.

6. crown
– Meaning: a circular decoration worn on the head, usually by kings or queens
– Example: The king wore a gold crown decorated with jewels.

7. Declaration
– Meaning: an official statement or announcement
– Example: The Declaration of Independence is an important document in American history.

8. efficiency
– Meaning: the ability to do something well without wasting time or resources
– Example: Improving efficiency can help the company save money.

9. elevate
– Meaning: to raise something to a higher level or position
– Example: The manager aims to elevate the team’s performance with better training.

10. embodies
– Meaning: represents or shows something clearly in a visible form
– Example: The statue embodies the spirit of freedom.

11. enduring
– Meaning: lasting for a long time
– Example: The book has an enduring appeal to young readers.

12. foster
– Meaning: to help something develop or grow
– Example: Teachers can foster creativity by encouraging students to think freely.

13. fostering
– Meaning: helping something develop or grow
– Example: Fostering a positive work environment can increase productivity.

14. functional
– Meaning: designed to be useful rather than decorative
– Example: The kitchen has a simple but functional design.

15. glimpses
– Meaning: quick or short views of something
– Example: We caught glimpses of dolphins swimming near the boat.

16. handy
– Meaning: useful or convenient
– Example: A dictionary is always handy when learning a new language.

17. heritage
– Meaning: traditions, customs, and culture passed down from previous generations
– Example: They take pride in their rich cultural heritage.

18. integration
– Meaning: the process of combining parts to form a whole
– Example: The integration of new technology improved the company’s efficiency.

19. interior
– Meaning: the inside part of something
– Example: The car’s interior is designed for comfort.

20. isolation
– Meaning: being alone or separated from others
– Example: Living in isolation can be difficult for many people.

21. landmarks
– Meaning: well-known buildings or places that are easily recognized
– Example: The Eiffel Tower is one of the world’s most famous landmarks.

22. layouts
– Meaning: arrangements or designs of parts in a space
– Example: The architect presented different layouts for the new building.

23. legacy
– Meaning: something passed down from one generation to another
– Example: The artist left a legacy of beautiful paintings.

25. liberty
– Meaning: the state of being free
– Example: People fought for their liberty during the revolution.

26. magnitude
– Meaning: the large size or importance of something
– Example: The magnitude of the earthquake was felt across the entire city.

27. maintenance
– Meaning: the work needed to keep something in good condition
– Example: Regular maintenance of the car can prevent future problems.

28. Memorial
– Meaning: a structure built to remember and honor a person or event (capitalized when part of a specific name)
– Example: The Lincoln Memorial is a famous monument in Washington, D.C.

29. pathways
– Meaning: routes or tracks to move along
– Example: There are many pathways through the park for walking or cycling.

30. preservation
– Meaning: the act of keeping something in good condition
– Example: The museum is dedicated to the preservation of ancient artifacts.

31. productivity
– Meaning: the rate at which work is done or goods are produced
– Example: The new software has improved productivity by 30%.

32. prominent
– Meaning: important or well-known
– Example: She is a prominent scientist in the field of genetics.

33. reminder
– Meaning: something that helps you remember something
– Example: The alarm on my phone is a reminder to take my medication.

34. representation
– Meaning: the way something is shown or portrayed
– Example: The movie is a faithful representation of the original book.

35. stability
– Meaning: the state of being steady and not changing
– Example: Financial stability is important for a secure future.

36. strive
– Meaning: to make a strong effort to achieve something
– Example: They always strive to provide the best service to their customers.

37. thoughtful
– Meaning: showing consideration for others or careful thinking
– Example: His thoughtful gift made her feel special.

38. well-being
– Meaning: the state of being healthy, happy, and comfortable
– Example: Regular exercise is important for your overall well-being.


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The Expert and Presenter

About the Author

About the Author

CEO and Co-founder of Juice Academy

Mehdi Safavi is a Cambridge certified English teacher (CELTA Grade A), IDP-trained IELTS expert, Sussex Downs College TESOL with 17+ years of teaching & teacher training experience. More about him →

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