This is what 9.0 in IELTS speaking looks like | CAMBRIDGE IELTS 16 TEST 1

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 21, 2024

What’s your name?

My name is Sarah Walker.

Where are you from?

I'm from Los Angeles, California.

PART 1

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

 

People you study/work with

Who do you spend most time studying/working with? [Why?]

I spend most of my time studying and working with a group of classmates from my university program. We collaborate because we share similar academic interests and goals, and our skills complement each other well. Working together allows us to pool our resources, tackle complex problems more effectively, and learn from each other's perspectives. It's also motivating to have a supportive group, as we help each other stay focused and on track with our studies. This collaboration not only enhances our learning experience but also builds a network of professional relationships that can be valuable in the future.

What kinds of things do you study/work on with other people? [Why?]

I typically work on a variety of group projects and assignments with other people, mainly because these tasks often require diverse skill sets and collective brainstorming. We often collaborate on research papers, where pooling our knowledge helps create more comprehensive and insightful analyses. Additionally, we work together on presentations, which benefit from multiple viewpoints and creative input, making the final product more engaging and well-rounded. Collaborating in these ways allows us to leverage each person's unique strengths, leading to more effective and successful outcomes in both our studies and collaborative projects.

Are there times when you study/work better by yourself? [Why/Why not?]

Yes, there are definitely times when I study and work better by myself. Independent study allows me to focus deeply on subjects that require intense concentration or when I need to develop a personal understanding of the material. It's particularly beneficial for tasks that need a lot of reading or complex problem-solving, where group discussions might be distracting. Working alone also helps me to develop my own analytical and critical thinking skills without relying on others, which is crucial for personal academic growth. Moreover, it gives me the flexibility to manage my own schedule and work at my own pace, which is less feasible in a group setting.

Is it important to like the people you study/work with? [Why/Why not?]

Yes, it's quite important to like the people you study or work with because positive relationships can significantly enhance collaboration and productivity. When you enjoy the company of your peers, communication tends to be more open and effective, which is crucial for sharing ideas, resolving conflicts, and providing mutual support. Liking your colleagues also contributes to a more pleasant and motivating environment, which can reduce stress and make the overall experience more enjoyable. While it's possible to work effectively with people you don't particularly like, having a good rapport can lead to a more cohesive team and better outcomes.

PART 2

Describe a tourist attraction you enjoyed visiting.
You should say:
    what this tourist attraction is
    when and why you visited it
    what you did there
and explain why you enjoyed visiting this tourist attraction.

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 tourist attraction that I truly enjoyed visiting is the Louvre Museum in Paris. I visited the Louvre a couple of years ago during a summer vacation, primarily because it's one of the most renowned art museums in the world, and I have a keen interest in art history.

The museum itself is massive, housing thousands of works from various time periods and cultures. During my visit, I spent a significant amount of time exploring the different galleries. I was particularly eager to see the Mona Lisa, which, despite being smaller than I expected and surrounded by a crowd, was still a remarkable sight due to its intricate detail and historical significance. Additionally, I admired the Venus de Milo and spent a lot of time in the Egyptian antiquities section, which fascinated me with its mummies and ancient artifacts.

What made the visit so enjoyable was the sheer scale and diversity of the art on display. Every room had something different and intriguing, offering insights into a myriad of cultures and histories. The architecture of the museum itself, with the iconic glass pyramid juxtaposed against the historic palace, added to the overall experience. It was not just an educational visit but also a visual delight. The opportunity to see famous artworks that I had previously only seen in books was incredibly fulfilling, making it a memorable part of my trip to Paris.

How often do you visit this place?

I've only had the opportunity to visit the Louvre Museum once during that particular trip to Paris. Given its vast collection and the limited time I had, I'd love to go back and explore more of what the museum has to offer. Each visit could reveal new artworks and exhibits, making it a place you could return to multiple times and still find something new to appreciate.

PART 3

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

Discussion Topics

Different kinds of tourist attractions

What are the most popular tourist attractions in your country?

In the United States, some of the most popular tourist attractions include natural wonders and historic landmarks. The Grand Canyon, with its stunning vistas and unique geological features, attracts millions of visitors each year. Yellowstone National Park is another major draw, famous for its wildlife and geothermal activity like the Old Faithful geyser. In terms of man-made landmarks, the Statue of Liberty in New York City symbolizes freedom and democracy and is a must-visit for many. Additionally, the Disney theme parks in Florida and California offer family-friendly entertainment and are top destinations for both domestic and international tourists. Each of these attractions highlights different aspects of American culture and natural beauty, drawing diverse crowds and contributing significantly to the country's tourism industry.

How do the types of tourist attractions that younger people like to visit compare with those that older people like to visit?

The preferences for tourist attractions often vary between younger and older visitors based on interests, physical demands, and cultural significance. Younger people tend to be drawn to destinations that offer interactive and high-energy experiences, such as theme parks like Disney World or adventure activities like hiking in national parks. They might also prefer urban environments with vibrant nightlife, modern art scenes, and contemporary attractions.

On the other hand, older tourists often favor destinations that are culturally enriching or more relaxed. This group might prefer visiting historical sites, museums, and places with religious or historical significance like the Vatican or the Gettysburg battlefield. They often seek comfort and accessibility, opting for scenic cruises or guided tours that require less physical exertion and provide more educational content.

Do you agree that some tourist attractions (e.g. national museums/galleries) should be free to visit?

Yes, I do agree that some tourist attractions, especially national museums and galleries, should be free to visit. Making these cultural and educational institutions accessible without a fee encourages more people to engage with art, history, and science, regardless of their socio-economic background. This can foster a greater appreciation for cultural heritage and promote educational opportunities among the public. Additionally, free access to national museums and galleries can boost local tourism and bring a wider audience, which might still support the venue through donations, guided tours, and purchases in the museum shop. By removing financial barriers, these institutions can serve as truly public spaces that enrich the community and support lifelong learning.

The importance of international tourism

Why is tourism important to a country?

Tourism is crucial to a country for several reasons. Economically, it generates significant revenue and creates millions of jobs, from hospitality and transportation to retail and entertainment sectors. This influx of money can lead to improved infrastructure, such as better roads, airports, and public services, which not only benefit tourists but also the local population.

Culturally, tourism promotes the preservation of heritage, traditions, and landmarks, as these become key attractions that draw visitors from around the world. It encourages a cultural exchange between visitors and locals, which can lead to a greater understanding and appreciation of diverse cultures.

Environmentally, while tourism can sometimes put a strain on natural resources, it also has the potential to promote conservation efforts. Many places rely on their natural beauty as a draw for tourists, leading to efforts to preserve these landscapes and wildlife to maintain their attractiveness.

What are the benefits to individuals of visiting another country as tourists?

Visiting another country as tourists offers numerous benefits to individuals. Firstly, it provides an opportunity for relaxation and escape from daily routines, which can help reduce stress and improve mental health. Tourists often return feeling rejuvenated and more resilient.

Secondly, traveling exposes individuals to new cultures, languages, and ways of life, which can broaden their perspectives and foster greater empathy and understanding of global diversity. This cultural enrichment can also enhance one's social skills and adaptability in different social contexts.

Additionally, tourism encourages personal growth by challenging individuals to step out of their comfort zones, whether by navigating foreign cities, trying new foods, or engaging in activities they wouldn’t normally consider. These experiences can boost confidence and independence.

How necessary is it for tourists to learn the language of the country they're visiting?

Learning the language of the country you're visiting isn't strictly necessary, but it can significantly enhance the travel experience. Even basic knowledge of the local language can improve communication with residents, making daily interactions smoother and more meaningful. It shows respect for the culture and can lead to warmer receptions from locals, who often appreciate the effort.

Furthermore, understanding the language can help tourists navigate more efficiently, read signs, understand menus, and manage transactions, reducing the reliance on guides or translation apps. This autonomy can make the trip more enjoyable and less stressful.

Useful Words from the Interview

Useful Upper-Intermediate Vocabulary

ASPECTS: Different parts or features of something. Example: There are many aspects of learning English, like grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation.

BARRIERS: Obstacles that prevent progress or make it difficult to achieve something. Example: Language barriers can make it hard to communicate when traveling in a foreign country.

CHALLENGING: Difficult, requiring effort and determination. Example: The math exam was very challenging, but she studied hard and passed.

COMFORT: A state of feeling relaxed and free from pain or stress. Example: The soft pillows on the bed provided great comfort after a long day.

CONCENTRATION: The ability to think carefully about something you are doing and nothing else. Example: His concentration during the chess game helped him to win.

CONFIDENCE: A feeling of trust in one’s abilities, qualities, and judgment. Example: She spoke with confidence during her presentation.

CONFLICTS: Serious disagreements or arguments. Example: The meeting was tense because of conflicts about the new project plan.

CONTEMPORARY: Belonging to the same time, modern or current. Example: Contemporary music often includes electronic sounds.

CONTRIBUTES: Helps to achieve or provide something. Example: Regular exercise contributes to overall health.

CONTRIBUTING: Adding to something in a positive way. Example: He was contributing ideas during the meeting to solve the problem.

CRITICAL: Extremely important or necessary. Example: It’s critical to follow safety rules while working in the laboratory.

CRUCIAL: Decisively important, especially in the success or failure of something. Example: The first year of university is crucial for setting a good academic foundation.

DEEPLY: Very much or intensely. Example: She was deeply moved by the movie.

DELIGHT: Great pleasure or happiness. Example: The children screamed in delight when they saw the playground.

DEMANDS: Strong requests for something to happen. Example: The job demands a lot of time and dedication.

DISPLAY: To show or exhibit something. Example: The museum displays artifacts from ancient times.

DOMESTIC: Relating to the home or family; not foreign or international. Example: Domestic chores include cooking and cleaning.

ENGAGE: To participate or become involved in an activity. Example: The teacher asked questions to engage students in the discussion.

ENGAGING: Interesting or pleasing, capturing attention. Example: His story was so engaging that everyone listened without interruption.

ENHANCE: To improve the quality, value, or extent of something. Example: Good lighting can enhance the atmosphere of a room.

ENHANCES: Makes better or adds to the quality of something. Example: Studying regularly enhances your understanding of the subject.

EXPOSES: Reveals or uncovers something hidden. Example: The documentary exposes the challenges faced by farmers.

FEE: Money paid for a service. Example: There’s a small fee to enter the national park.

FREEDOM: The state of being free and not controlled by another person or thing. Example: Freedom of speech is an important right.

FURTHERMORE: In addition, besides. Example: He is not interested in buying the car. Furthermore, he doesn’t have enough money for it.

GENERATES: Causes something to arise or come about. Example: The new policy generates a lot of discussion.

GRAND: Impressive in size or appearance. Example: They stayed at a grand hotel with beautiful rooms.

HOUSING: Buildings or spaces where people live. Example: The city is developing new housing projects to accommodate more residents.

INSIGHTS: Deep understanding or realization about something. Example: The book offers new insights into World War II.

INSTITUTIONS: Large and important organizations, such as universities or banks. Example: Educational institutions play a crucial role in society.

INTENSE: Very strong; very great. Example: The workout was intense and left him feeling exhausted.

LANDSCAPES: The visible features of an area of land, often considered in terms of their aesthetic appeal. Example: The landscapes in the countryside are very peaceful.

MAINTAIN: To continue to have; to keep in existence, or not allow to become less. Example: The city must maintain the roads to keep them safe.

MASSIVE: Very large and heavy. Example: They lifted a massive stone while building the wall.

MULTIPLE: Several or many. Example: She had multiple tasks to complete before the end of the day.

NUMEROUS: A large number of. Example: There are numerous books in the library on this topic.

OUTCOMES: The results or effects of an action or event. Example: The outcomes of the experiment will be published soon.

OVERALL: Considering everything or everyone; in general. Example: Overall, the trip was a great success.

PACE: The speed at which someone or something moves, or with which something happens or changes. Example: He slowed down the pace of his speech so everyone could understand.

PERSPECTIVES: A particular way of considering something. Example: To understand

ADDITIONALLY: Used to introduce another item related to the previous ones. Example: She enjoys painting. Additionally, she likes to write poetry.

ARTWORKS: Pieces of art, like paintings, sculptures, or drawings. Example: The gallery displayed artworks from various local artists.

BENEFICIAL: Helpful, useful, or good for you. Example: Drinking water is beneficial for your health.

BOOST: To increase or improve something. Example: The new advertising campaign helped to boost sales.

COMPREHENSIVE: Including all, or almost all, elements or aspects of something. Example: The manual provides a comprehensive guide to the software.

CONSERVATION: The protection and preservation of the natural environment or important historical structures. Example: Wildlife conservation efforts help to protect endangered species.

CRUISES: Trips on a ship for pleasure, usually visiting several places. Example: They went on a Caribbean cruise for their honeymoon.

DEMOCRACY: A system of government where the whole population or all eligible members have the right to vote. Example: Democracy allows citizens to have a say in how their country is run.

DISTRACTING: Something that draws away attention. Example: Loud noises can be distracting when you are trying to study.

DIVERSE: Showing a great deal of variety; very different from each other. Example: The festival celebrated the diverse cultures of the city.

DIVERSITY: The inclusion of different types of people (such as people of different races or cultures) in a group or organization. Example: Companies are focusing on increasing diversity in the workplace.

DONATIONS: Something that is given to a charity or organization, especially money. Example: The charity accepts donations to help feed the homeless.

EFFICIENTLY: Performing in the best possible manner with the least waste of time and effort. Example: The new system allows us to work more efficiently.

ENJOYABLE: Pleasurable, providing enjoyment. Example: The concert was very enjoyable.

EXHIBITS: Displays or shows for the public to see. Example: The science museum has many interactive exhibits for children.

FULFILLING: Making one feel satisfied or happy. Example: Volunteering at the animal shelter is a fulfilling activity.

INDEPENDENCE: The state of being independent; freedom from being controlled by someone else. Example: The country celebrated its independence with a parade.

INFRASTRUCTURE: The basic physical and organizational structures needed for the operation of a society or enterprise. Example: Good infrastructure like roads and bridges is essential for economic development.

INPUT: Contributions of knowledge, opinions, or energy toward a common goal. Example: The manager asked for everyone’s input on the project.

INTERACTIONS: Actions or communications between people or things. Example: Positive interactions with teachers can enhance students’ learning experiences.

MEMORABLE: Worth remembering or easily remembered, especially because of being special or unusual. Example: Their wedding day was memorable.

MOREOVER: In addition to what has been said; furthermore. Example: The plan is risky. Moreover, it’s expensive.

MOTIVATING: Providing a reason to act in a certain way; encouraging. Example: The coach gave a motivating speech before the game.

PEERS: People who are the same age or have the same social status as you. Example: Children learn a lot from their peers.

PREFERENCES: A greater liking for one alternative over another or others. Example: Her preferences in music range from classical to jazz.

PRIMARILY: Mainly; for the most part. Example: The meeting is primarily to discuss the upcoming project.

REMARKABLE: Worthy of attention; striking. Example: The athlete’s performance was remarkable.

RETAIL: The sale of goods to the public in relatively small quantities for use or consumption rather than for resale. Example: She works in retail, selling clothes at a mall.

REVENUE: The income that a business or organization receives from its activities, mostly from sales of products or services. Example: The company reported an increase in revenue this quarter.

SIGNIFICANCE: The quality of being important or the degree to which something is important. Example: The significance of a healthy diet cannot be overstated.

STRICTLY: In a way that must be obeyed; exactly. Example: This rule is strictly enforced.

STUNNING: Extremely impressive or attractive. Example: The view from the top of the mountain is stunning.

TACKLE: To confront or take on a challenge. Example: The team is prepared to tackle the problem head-on.

TRANSPORTATION: The action of transporting someone or something or the process of being transported. Example: Efficient transportation systems are crucial for a city’s economy.

VIEWPOINTS: Ways of looking at or considering a matter. Example: Different viewpoints on the issue were discussed during the meeting.

Useful Advanced Vocabulary

ACCESSIBLE: Easy to approach, reach, or enter. Example: The building is accessible to people with disabilities.

APPRECIATION: Recognition and enjoyment of the good qualities of someone or something. Example: He expressed his appreciation for her help.

AUTONOMY: The right or condition of self-government, especially in a particular sphere. Example: The university has the autonomy to set its own educational policies.

BATTLEFIELD: A region where a battle is being fought or has been fought. Example: They visited the historic battlefield where the war was decided.

COLLABORATE: To work together with someone else for a special purpose. Example: Scientists from different countries collaborate on the research project.

COLLABORATING: Working jointly on an activity or project. Example: They are collaborating on a new book about climate change.

COLLABORATION: The action of working with someone to produce or create something. Example: The collaboration between the two artists produced a unique artwork.

COLLECTIVE: Done by people acting as a group. Example: A collective decision was made by the committee.

COMPLEMENT: Something that completes or goes well with something. Example: The wine is a perfect complement to the cheese.

EAGER: Wanting to do or have something very much. Example: She was eager to start her new job.

ENRICH: Improve or enhance the quality or value of. Example: Traveling can enrich your understanding of different cultures.

ENRICHING: Making something more meaningful or rewarding. Example: Volunteering is an enriching experience.

FLEXIBILITY: Willingness to change or compromise. Example: The job requires flexibility because the schedule can change at the last minute.

FOSTER: Encourage the development of something (especially something desirable). Example: The teacher’s role is to foster learning.

HERITAGE: Valued objects and qualities such as cultural traditions, unspoiled countryside, and historic buildings that have been passed down from previous generations. Example: They celebrated the city’s rich heritage during the festival.

INTERACTIVE: Designed to respond to the actions of the user. Example: The museum’s new exhibit is interactive, allowing visitors to participate.

INTRIGUING: Arousing one’s curiosity or interest; fascinating. Example: The mystery novel was so intriguing that she read it in one day.

LANDMARKS: Objects or features that are easily seen and recognized, often used as a navigation aid. Example: The statue in the city center is one of the major landmarks.

LIBERTY: The state of being free within society from oppressive restrictions imposed by authority on one’s way of life, behavior, or political views. Example: The constitution guarantees individual liberty.

LIFELONG: Lasting for the whole of a person’s life. Example: He had a lifelong interest in learning new languages.

MEANINGFUL: Having a serious, important, or useful quality or purpose. Example: The discussion was meaningful and helped resolve many issues.

MUTUAL: Held in common by two or more parties. Example: They had a mutual agreement not to share the information.

OPTING: Make a choice from a range of possibilities. Example: She is opting to study abroad next year.

PRESERVATION: The action of preserving something. Example: The preservation of natural habitats is essential for wildlife.

PRODUCTIVITY: The effectiveness of productive effort, especially in industry, as measured in terms of the rate of output per unit of input. Example: The new software improved productivity by 25%.

REGARDLESS: Without being affected or influenced by something. Example: She continued with her plan regardless of the risks.

RENOWNED: Known or talked about by many people; famous. Example: The restaurant is renowned for its excellent seafood.

SHEER: Nothing other than; unmitigated (used for emphasis). Example: She laughed with sheer joy.

STRAIN: A severe or excessive demand on the strength, resources, or abilities of someone or something. Example: The emergency put a strain on the hospital staff.

SUPPORTIVE: Providing encouragement or emotional help. Example: Her family was very supportive during her studies.

TRANSACTIONS: An instance of buying or selling something; a business deal. Example: The system records all transactions automatically.

VIBRANT: Full of energy and enthusiasm. Example: The city is known for its vibrant nightlife.


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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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