Part 2: Content (British Council Academic IELTS: Speaking): Study Material

Fabio Cerpelloni

Written by: Fabio Cerpelloni

Reviewed by: Emily M

Updated on

Part 2: content

Overview

  • Part 2 is the individual long turn in the IELTS Speaking test

  • In this part, the examiner gives you a task card with a topic to talk about

  • The card also includes points to cover in your answer

  • You have one minute to prepare

  • During this time, you can use paper and a pencil to make notes

  • Then you speak for one to two minutes on your own

  • The examiner listens and does not usually interrupt you while you are speaking

  • At the end, the examiner may ask one or two short follow-up questions

  • Part 2 lasts about three to four minutes in total, including the preparation time

  • This part tests your ability to:

    • speak at length on a given topic

    • organise your ideas clearly

    • connect different points in a logical way

    • use a range of appropriate language with enough fluency

Typical topics

  • Part 2 topics are usually familiar and personal. You may be asked to talk about:

    • a person who influenced you

    • a teacher you remember

    • a place you enjoyed visiting

    • a holiday you had or would like to have

    • a meal you enjoyed

    • a book, film or TV programme you like

    • an important event in your life

    • something you bought or want to buy

    • a hobby or activity you enjoy

    • a memorable experience

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Fabio Cerpelloni

Author: Fabio Cerpelloni

Expertise: English Language Teaching Specialist

Fabio Cerpelloni is a learner of English turned English language teaching specialist, content writer, and editor for education brands. He holds an MA in Professional Development for Language Education and has worked with major English language schools, publishers, high-traffic language-learning blogs, and education platforms. If you send him an email, he'll reply. -- www.fabiocerpelloni.com

Emily M

Reviewer: Emily M

Expertise: English Language Teaching Specialist

Emily has been teaching Academic English to international students for over 10 years. She is a former IELTS examiner.