Laura from the US scores 9.0 in IELTS speaking | CAMBRIDGE IELTS 16 TEST 2

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 25, 2024

What is your name?

My name is Laura Bennett.

Where are you from?

I’m from Seattle, Washington.

PART 1

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

 

Flowers and plants

Do you have a favourite flower or plant? Why/Why not?]

Yes, I do have a favorite plant—it's the lavender plant. I really appreciate lavender not only for its beautiful purple hue and pleasant fragrance but also for its versatility. Lavender has calming properties, which are great for stress relief, and it can be used in various forms like oils, dried flowers, and even in cooking. I find its scent particularly soothing, and I like to keep a small lavender plant in my home to help create a relaxing atmosphere. Plus, growing it is quite rewarding as it's both pretty to look at and useful.

What kinds of flowers and plants grow near where you live? [Why/Why not?]

In Seattle, the climate is generally mild and moist, which is ideal for a variety of plants and flowers. You'll commonly find rhododendrons and azaleas here, as they thrive in the acidic soil and partial shade conditions typical of the area. We also have a lot of ferns and moss due to the high humidity and frequent rain. In terms of flowers, tulips and daffodils are quite popular in the spring, and many people enjoy visiting the nearby Skagit Valley Tulip Festival when the fields are in full bloom. This diversity of plant life is largely due to our temperate maritime climate, which supports a wide range of flora.

Is it important to you to have flowers and plants in your home? [Why/Why not?]

Yes, it is important to me to have flowers and plants in my home. They bring a sense of life and freshness to the living space, which I find very comforting and aesthetically pleasing. Additionally, plants can improve indoor air quality by absorbing toxins and producing oxygen, which is a practical health benefit. Having plants around also connects me to nature, which is something I value especially living in an urban environment. It’s soothing to care for them; it feels like a small escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Overall, the presence of plants and flowers contributes to a more relaxing and healthy home environment.

Have you ever bought flowers for someone else? [Why/Why not?]

Yes, I have bought flowers for someone else on several occasions. I find that giving flowers is a thoughtful way to show appreciation, celebrate a special occasion, or offer comfort during difficult times. Flowers have a universal appeal and can convey a wide range of emotions, from joy and love to sympathy and respect. Whether it's for a birthday, a graduation, or as a get-well-soon gesture, flowers are a classic and beautiful way to express care and affection towards others. They have the ability to brighten someone's day and make them feel valued, which is why I often choose them as gifts.

PART 2

Describe a review you read about a product or service.
You should say:
    You should say:
    where you read the review
    what the product or service was
    what information the review gave about the product or service
and explain what you did as a result of reading this review.

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.

Recently, I read a review on a consumer electronics website about a new smartphone that had just hit the market. The review was quite detailed, covering everything from the phone's design and display quality to its battery life and camera performance. It highlighted some of the unique features of the phone, such as its high-refresh-rate screen and advanced photography capabilities, which were designed to appeal to both gamers and photography enthusiasts.

The review also discussed the phone's operating system updates, its compatibility with various apps, and its performance under heavy use, which was particularly important to me as I use my phone extensively throughout the day. Additionally, the reviewer included comparisons with other similar models on the market, which helped provide a broader context for how this phone stacked up against its competitors.

As a result of reading this review, I decided to purchase the smartphone. The comprehensive analysis helped me feel confident that the phone would meet my needs, particularly in terms of camera functionality and battery life. After buying it, I found that the insights from the review were quite accurate, and I was pleased with the performance of the phone. The review was instrumental in guiding my decision, ensuring that I made an informed purchase that I was happy with.

Did you buy that product yourself?

Yes, I bought the smartphone myself after reading the review. It provided me with enough detailed information to make an informed decision, and I felt confident that the phone would meet my specific needs in terms of performance and features.

PART 3

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

Discussion Topics

Online reviews

What kinds of things do people write online reviews about in your country?

In the United States, people write online reviews about a wide array of products and services. Common categories include electronics, where consumers share their experiences with gadgets like smartphones, laptops, and TVs. Additionally, there are extensive reviews on hospitality services, such as hotels, restaurants, and tourist attractions, which help others make travel decisions. Reviews on books, movies, and video games are also popular, offering insights into entertainment options. Moreover, people frequently review everyday items like home appliances, furniture, and clothing. These reviews often include personal testimonies about product quality, customer service experiences, and value for money, providing a useful resource for other consumers looking to make informed purchasing decisions.

Why do some people write online reviews?

People write online reviews for several reasons. Firstly, they want to share their experiences, whether positive or negative, to help others make informed decisions. Writing a review can be a way to give back to the community by providing useful information. Secondly, some people enjoy expressing their opinions and feel a sense of satisfaction in sharing their thoughts publicly. Reviews can also be a way to praise a product or service that exceeded expectations, offering recognition and support to businesses. Conversely, writing a negative review can be a means to hold companies accountable and push for improvements. Additionally, some platforms offer incentives, such as discounts or loyalty points, which motivate users to write reviews. Overall, the desire to inform, influence, and contribute to the consumer experience drives many people to write online reviews.

Do you think that online reviews are good for both shoppers and companies?

Yes, online reviews are beneficial for both shoppers and companies. For shoppers, reviews provide valuable insights into the quality and performance of products or services, helping them make informed purchasing decisions and avoid potential disappointments. They can also highlight issues that may not be apparent from the product description alone, offering a more comprehensive view of what to expect.

For companies, positive reviews can enhance their reputation, attract new customers, and build trust in their brand. Constructive feedback from reviews can also help businesses identify areas for improvement and make necessary changes to enhance customer satisfaction. Additionally, engaging with reviewers by responding to their comments can demonstrate a company's commitment to customer service and foster a loyal customer base.

Overall, online reviews create a transparent marketplace where consumers are better informed, and companies can thrive by continuously improving their offerings based on customer feedback.

Customer service

What do you think it might be like to work in a customer service job?

Working in a customer service job can be both challenging and rewarding. On the one hand, it involves interacting with a diverse range of people, addressing their concerns, and providing solutions, which can be quite fulfilling, especially when you can help resolve issues and make customers happy. This role requires strong communication skills, patience, and empathy, as you often deal with individuals who may be frustrated or dissatisfied.

On the other hand, customer service jobs can also be stressful, especially during peak times or when dealing with difficult customers. The need to remain calm and professional, even in challenging situations, can be demanding. However, it can also be a great opportunity to develop valuable skills such as problem-solving, conflict resolution, and multitasking.

Overall, while customer service jobs can be tough, they also offer the chance to make a positive impact on people's experiences and can provide a strong foundation for a career in various fields.

Do you agree that customers are more likely to complain nowadays?

Yes, I agree that customers are more likely to complain nowadays, and there are several reasons for this trend. Firstly, the rise of digital platforms and social media has made it easier for customers to voice their grievances publicly and quickly. This accessibility encourages people to share their experiences, both positive and negative, more readily than in the past.

Additionally, consumers today have higher expectations for product quality and customer service, driven by increased competition and the availability of information online. When these expectations are not met, they are more inclined to express their dissatisfaction.

Moreover, many companies actively encourage feedback to improve their services and products, making customers feel that their complaints will be heard and addressed. This proactive approach can lead to a greater willingness to voice concerns.

Overall, while the propensity to complain may have increased, it also reflects a more engaged and informed consumer base that demands higher standards from businesses.

How important is it for companies to take all customer complaints seriously?

It is extremely important for companies to take all customer complaints seriously. Addressing complaints promptly and effectively can help maintain and even enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty. When companies show that they value customer feedback and are committed to resolving issues, they build trust and demonstrate a high level of customer care.

Additionally, complaints provide valuable insights into potential problems with products or services, allowing companies to identify areas for improvement. By taking complaints seriously, companies can prevent recurring issues, improve their offerings, and stay competitive in the market.

Ignoring or mishandling complaints can have significant negative consequences, including damaging the company’s reputation and losing customers to competitors. In today’s digital age, where negative reviews and experiences can be widely shared, it’s crucial for companies to prioritize and address customer complaints to maintain a positive brand image and ensure long-term success.

Useful Words from the Interview

Useful Upper-Intermediate Level Words

ACCURATE
– Meaning: Correct and without any mistakes.
– Example: The weather report was accurate, so we knew it would rain today.

ADDRESSED
– Meaning: Dealt with or discussed a problem or issue.
– Example: The teacher addressed the students’ concerns about the test.

ADDRESSING
– Meaning: Dealing with or talking about a problem or issue.
– Example: The company is addressing customer complaints to improve their service.

APPARENT
– Meaning: Easy to see or understand; obvious.
– Example: It was apparent that she was happy from the big smile on her face.

APPEAL
– Meaning: A request for help or support; attractiveness.
– Example: The charity made an appeal for donations to help the homeless.

APPROACH
– Meaning: A way of dealing with something; a method.
– Example: The new approach to teaching math has helped students learn better.

BROADER
– Meaning: Wider; including more things or people.
– Example: The new law has a broader impact on the community.

CHALLENGING
– Meaning: Difficult, requiring effort and skill.
– Example: Climbing the mountain was a challenging task, but we did it.

CLASSIC
– Meaning: Traditional; something that is a perfect example of its kind.
– Example: Shakespeare’s plays are classic works of literature.

COMFORT
– Meaning: A state of physical ease and freedom from pain.
– Example: She found comfort in her warm bed on the cold night.

COMFORTING
– Meaning: Making someone feel better when they are sad or worried.
– Example: Her comforting words made him feel less anxious.

COMMITMENT
– Meaning: A promise or firm decision to do something.
– Example: His commitment to his job is admirable; he always works hard.

COMMONLY
– Meaning: Usually; often.
– Example: This type of plant is commonly found in tropical areas.

CONCERNS
– Meaning: Worries or problems.
– Example: The new policy raised concerns among the employees.

CONFLICT
– Meaning: A serious disagreement or argument.
– Example: The conflict between the two countries lasted for many years.

CONTRIBUTE
– Meaning: To give something, especially money or help, to achieve a goal.
– Example: Everyone in the team needs to contribute to the project.

CONTRIBUTES
– Meaning: Helps to cause or bring about.
– Example: Exercise contributes to good health.

CRUCIAL
– Meaning: Extremely important or necessary.
– Example: It is crucial to arrive on time for the meeting.

DEMANDING
– Meaning: Requiring a lot of effort, skill, or attention.
– Example: Being a doctor is a demanding job.

DEMONSTRATE
– Meaning: To show or explain how something works or is done.
– Example: The teacher will demonstrate how to solve the math problem.

DESIRE
– Meaning: A strong feeling of wanting something.
– Example: She had a strong desire to travel the world.

DETAILED
– Meaning: Including many small parts or facts.
– Example: The report provided a detailed analysis of the project.

DISPLAY
– Meaning: To show something for people to look at.
– Example: The museum will display the new paintings next month.

ENGAGING
– Meaning: Interesting and holding your attention.
– Example: The book was so engaging that I couldn’t put it down.

ENHANCE
– Meaning: To improve the quality or make something better.
– Example: Adding spices will enhance the flavor of the dish.

ENSURE
– Meaning: To make sure that something happens or is done.
– Example: Please ensure that the door is locked before you leave.

ENSURING
– Meaning: Making sure that something happens or is done.
– Example: The teacher is ensuring that all students understand the lesson.

EXPECTATIONS
– Meaning: Beliefs about what will happen in the future.
– Example: The expectations for the new movie are very high.

FEEDBACK
– Meaning: Information or opinions about how well you are doing.
– Example: The teacher gave us feedback on our essays.

INFORM
– Meaning: To tell someone about something.
– Example: Please inform me if there are any changes to the schedule.

INFORMED
– Meaning: Having or showing knowledge about something.
– Example: He made an informed decision after reading all the information.

INSIGHTS
– Meaning: Deep understanding of a situation or problem.
– Example: Her insights into human behavior were fascinating.

JOY
– Meaning: A feeling of great happiness.
– Example: The child’s face was full of joy when he saw the puppy.

LARGELY
– Meaning: Mostly or mainly.
– Example: The success of the project was largely due to her efforts.

LONG-TERM
– Meaning: Taking place over a long period of time.
– Example: They are planning for long-term growth of the company.

MAINTAIN
– Meaning: To keep something in good condition.
– Example: It is important to maintain your car regularly.

OPERATING
– Meaning: Working or functioning.
– Example: The machine is not operating properly.

OVERALL
– Meaning: In general; considering everything.
– Example: Overall, the event was a success.

POTENTIAL
– Meaning: Possible but not yet actual.
– Example: She has the potential to become a great artist.

PRAISE
– Meaning: To express admiration or approval of someone.
– Example: The teacher praised the student for his excellent work.

PRESENCE
– Meaning: The state of being somewhere.
– Example: His presence at the meeting was very helpful.

PURCHASE
– Meaning: To buy something.
– Example: She decided to purchase a new car.

PURCHASING
– Meaning: The act of buying something.
– Example: Purchasing groceries online has become very popular.

RELIEF
– Meaning: A feeling of comfort when something unpleasant ends.
– Example: She felt a sense of relief after the exam was over.

REPUTATION
– Meaning: The opinion that people have about someone or something.
– Example: The restaurant has a good reputation for its delicious food.

RESOLVE
– Meaning: To find a solution to a problem.
– Example: They are trying to resolve the conflict peacefully.

RESOLVING
– Meaning: Finding a solution to a problem.
– Example: She is good at resolving disputes between her friends.

REWARDING
– Meaning: Giving a feeling of satisfaction.
– Example: Teaching is a very rewarding profession.

SHADE
– Meaning: An area where direct sunlight is blocked.
– Example: We sat under the shade of a large tree.

SIGNIFICANT
– Meaning: Important or noticeable.
– Example: The new policy will have a significant impact on the company.

SYMPATHY
– Meaning: Understanding and caring for someone else’s suffering.
– Example: She felt deep sympathy for the flood victims.

TOUGH
– Meaning: Strong and able to deal with difficult situations.
– Example: The job interview was tough, but he was well-prepared.

TRUST
– Meaning: Belief in the reliability or truth of someone or something.
– Example: It takes time to build trust in a relationship.

UNIQUE
– Meaning: Being the only one of its kind.
– Example: Each person’s fingerprints are unique.

URBAN
– Meaning: Related to a city or town.
– Example: The urban area has many parks and museums.

VALUED
– Meaning: Considered important or beneficial.
– Example: Her advice is highly valued by her colleagues.

WIDELY
– Meaning: By many people or over a large area.
– Example: The book is widely read and respected.

ABSORBING
– Meaning: Very interesting and holding your attention completely.
– Example: The movie was so absorbing that I forgot about everything else.

ADDITIONALLY
– Meaning: Also; in addition.
– Example: She finished her homework. Additionally, she cleaned her room.

BENEFICIAL
– Meaning: Helpful or good for something or someone.
– Example: Regular exercise is beneficial to your health.

COMPREHENSIVE
– Meaning: Including all or nearly all elements or aspects.
– Example: The report gave a comprehensive overview of the project.

CONVEY
– Meaning: To express or communicate something.
– Example: He tried to convey his feelings through the letter.

DISAPPOINTMENTS
– Meaning: Feelings of sadness because something did not go as expected.
– Example: There were many disappointments when the concert was canceled.

DIVERSE
– Meaning: Showing a great deal of variety; very different.
– Example: The city has a diverse population with many cultures.

DIVERSITY
– Meaning: A range of different things; variety.
– Example: The diversity of plants in the rainforest is amazing.

ELECTRONICS
– Meaning: Devices or equipment that use electricity.
– Example: He loves working with electronics like computers and smartphones.

EXCEEDED
– Meaning: Went beyond what was expected or allowed.
– Example: Her performance exceeded everyone’s expectations.

EXTENSIVE
– Meaning: Large in amount or size.
– Example: The library has an extensive collection of books.

EXTENSIVELY
– Meaning: In a way that covers a large area or has a great range.
– Example: She has traveled extensively across Europe.

FOUNDATION
– Meaning: The basis or groundwork of something.
– Example: Education is the foundation of a successful career.

FREQUENT
– Meaning: Happening often; common.
– Example: He makes frequent trips to the city for work.

FULFILLING
– Meaning: Making you feel happy and satisfied.
– Example: Helping others can be a very fulfilling experience.

GESTURE
– Meaning: A movement of the body that shows an idea or feeling.
– Example: She made a friendly gesture by waving her hand.

INCENTIVES
– Meaning: Things that motivate or encourage someone to do something.
– Example: The company offers incentives to employees who meet their goals.

INTERACTING
– Meaning: Communicating or working together with others.
– Example: The children enjoy interacting with their classmates.

LOYAL
– Meaning: Showing firm and constant support or allegiance.
– Example: She has been a loyal friend for many years.

MOREOVER
– Meaning: Besides; in addition to what has been said.
– Example: The job is interesting. Moreover, it offers a good salary.

MOTIVATE
– Meaning: To provide someone with a reason to do something.
– Example: Teachers try to motivate their students to learn.

NEARBY
– Meaning: Not far away; close.
– Example: There is a park nearby where we can have a picnic.

NOWADAYS
– Meaning: At the present time; in the current age.
– Example: Nowadays, many people work from home.

OXYGEN
– Meaning: A gas that is essential for life and is found in the air.
– Example: Plants produce oxygen during photosynthesis.

PATIENCE
– Meaning: The ability to wait calmly without getting angry.
– Example: Teaching young children requires a lot of patience.

RECOGNITION
– Meaning: Acknowledgment or appreciation of someone’s efforts or achievements.
– Example: She received recognition for her hard work at the company.

RESOLUTION
– Meaning: A firm decision to do or not to do something; solving a problem.
– Example: His New Year’s resolution is to exercise more.

SATISFACTION
– Meaning: The feeling of pleasure when you accomplish something.
– Example: She felt great satisfaction after finishing the project.

UNIVERSAL
– Meaning: Applicable to everyone or everything; worldwide.
– Example: A smile is a universal sign of friendliness.

Useful Advanced Level Words

ACCOUNTABLE
– Meaning: Responsible for something and expected to explain your actions.
– Example: The manager is accountable for the team’s performance.

AFFECTION
– Meaning: A gentle feeling of fondness or liking.
– Example: She showed her affection by hugging her friend.

APPRECIATION
– Meaning: Recognition and enjoyment of the good qualities of someone or something.
– Example: He showed his appreciation by thanking everyone for their help.

ARRAY
– Meaning: A large and impressive group or collection of things.
– Example: The store offers an array of fresh fruits and vegetables.

AVAILABILITY
– Meaning: The state of being able to be used or obtained.
– Example: The availability of rooms in the hotel changes daily.

CAPABILITIES
– Meaning: The skills or abilities needed to do something.
– Example: The new software has many advanced capabilities.

ENTHUSIASTS
– Meaning: People who are very interested and excited about something.
– Example: Car enthusiasts gathered at the show to see the latest models.

FOSTER
– Meaning: To encourage the development or growth of something.
– Example: The teacher’s goal is to foster a love of learning in her students.

FRUSTRATED
– Meaning: Feeling annoyed or angry because you cannot achieve something.
– Example: He was frustrated by the slow progress of the project.

INCLINED
– Meaning: Likely or wanting to do something.
– Example: She is inclined to agree with the new plan.

INSTRUMENTAL
– Meaning: Very important in helping to achieve something.
– Example: His advice was instrumental in making the decision.

LOYALTY
– Meaning: The quality of being faithful and supportive.
– Example: The company’s success is due to the loyalty of its customers.

MARKETPLACE
– Meaning: An area or environment where commercial dealings are conducted.
– Example: The internet has become a global marketplace.

OFFERINGS
– Meaning: Products or services provided by a company or organization.
– Example: The new restaurant has a variety of unique offerings on its menu.

PARTIAL
– Meaning: Incomplete or only a part of something.
– Example: She gave a partial answer to the question.

PEAK
– Meaning: The highest point or level of something.
– Example: The athlete reached the peak of his career last year.

READILY
– Meaning: Quickly and easily.
– Example: The information is readily available online.

TESTIMONIES
– Meaning: Statements or endorsements from people about their experiences.
– Example: The positive testimonies from customers boosted the product’s sales.

THOUGHTFUL
– Meaning: Showing consideration for others.
– Example: He is very thoughtful and always remembers his friends’ birthdays.

THRIVE
– Meaning: To grow or develop well or vigorously.
– Example: The business continues to thrive despite the economic downturn.

TRANSPARENT
– Meaning: Open and honest; easy to understand.
– Example: The company’s financial records are transparent and available to the public.

WILLINGNESS
– Meaning: The quality or state of being prepared to do something.
– Example: Her willingness to help made a big difference in the project.


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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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