IELTS HUB
Full test with Band 9 answers

Speaking test #090

Part 1 · Interview

4 to 5 minutes. The examiner asks about you and familiar topics.

Introduction · Q1

Can you tell me your full name?

Introduction · Q2

Where are you from?

Introduction · Q3

Do you work or are you a student?

Home · Q1

Do you live in a house or an apartment?

I live in a house. It's a spacious three-bedroom home with a large garden and a garage. I love the feeling of having my own private space, and the garden is a real bonus for me.

Home · Q2

Which is your favourite room in your home? Why?

My favourite room in my home is my living room. It's a cozy and comfortable space that is perfect for relaxing and entertaining. I love the natural light that floods in through the large windows, and the fireplace adds a warm and inviting touch. Plus, the view of the garden is just beautiful.

Home · Q3

Would you change anything about your home? Why / why not?

I wouldn't change anything major about my home as I am very content with it the way it is. However, I would love to have a bigger kitchen as I love to cook and entertain. But overall, I am very happy with my home and don't feel the need to change anything.

Home · Q4

Would you like to move to a different home in the future?

I am currently very content with my current home, but I can't rule out the possibility of moving in the future. I would consider it if the opportunity arises for a better location or a larger space. But for now, I am very happy where I am.

Hometown · Q1

Where are you from?

I am from a small city in the midwestern United States. It's a lovely place with a strong sense of community and a lot of beautiful natural surroundings.

Hometown · Q2

Do you like your home town? (Why?

?) Yes, I absolutely love my home town. It has a great quality of life, a friendly atmosphere, and plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. Plus, it's a great place to raise a family.

Hometown · Q3

Would you prefer to live somewhere else? (Why?

?) I would prefer to live somewhere else for a change of pace. While I love my home town, I think it would be exciting to experience a new culture, try different types of food, and meet new people. Plus, I think it would be a great opportunity to learn and grow as a person.

Hometown · Q4

Do you think your home town is a good place for young people? (Why?

?) I do think my home town is a great place for young people. There are plenty of opportunities to get involved in the community, whether that be through volunteering, internships, or clubs and organizations. Plus, the city has a vibrant arts and culture scene, which I think is important for young people to experience and be exposed to. Overall, it's a great place to grow and develop as a person.

Part 2 · Cue card
Person Present BraveryCourageInspiration

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.

Describe someone you know who is very brave

You should say:

  • Who the person is
  • How you know this person
  • What specific acts of bravery this person has done
  • How this person's bravery has impacted others
294 words · 4 paragraphs
Point 1

Who the person is

I'm going to talk about my grandmother, who I consider to be an exceptionally brave individual. She is in her late 70s and has faced numerous challenges throughout her life with unwavering courage. I have known her since I was a child, and her stories of resilience and bravery have always inspired me to face my own difficulties head-on.

Point 2

How you know this person

My grandmother's acts of bravery are numerous, but one incident that truly stands out is when she single-handedly stood up against a group of local bullies who were harassing a young girl in our neighborhood. Despite being vastly outnumbered and physically weaker than the aggressors, she fearlessly intervened and managed to diffuse the situation, ensuring the girl's safety. Her quick thinking and bold actions in that moment left a lasting impression on everyone who witnessed it.

Point 3

What specific acts of bravery this person has done

The impact of my grandmother's bravery extends far beyond that particular incident. Her actions have served as a shining example for our community, encouraging others to stand up against injustice and bullying. Many people, including myself, have drawn strength from her courageous demeanor and have found the inspiration to confront their own fears and challenges. Her bravery has created a ripple effect of positivity and empowerment that continues to resonate with those around her.

Point 4

How this person's bravery has impacted others

In conclusion, my grandmother's extraordinary bravery has not only defined her character but has also left a profound impact on those around her. Her selfless acts of courage serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration for our community, instilling in us the belief that one person's bravery can spark a chain reaction of positivity and change. I am incredibly proud to know such a strong and courageous individual, and I strive to embody even a fraction of her unwavering bravery in my own life.

The Band 9 answer in numbers
Words
294
Sentences
13
Words per sentence
22.6
Speaking time
about 2.3 min

Counted at 130 words a minute. The exam gives you one to two minutes.

Part 3 · Discussion

4 to 5 minutes. The examiner asks broader questions linked to the cue card topic.

Discussion · Q1

How can people's bravery show up in different ways in different cultures?

Bravery is such a fascinating concept, and it indeed manifests in many different ways depending on cultural contexts. For instance, in some cultures, bravery might be seen in the form of standing up for one's beliefs, even in the face of adversity. This could involve speaking out against injustice or advocating for social change, which is highly revered in many societies. In contrast, other cultures might celebrate more physical or heroic acts of bravery, such as risking one's life to save others or defending one's community in times of conflict. Ultimately, while the essence of bravery remains the same, the expression can vary widely, reflecting the values and priorities of each culture. It's truly intriguing how these differences shape our understanding of what it means to be courageous!

Discussion · Q2

How much can you admire someone for being brave without feeling scared yourself?

That's a fascinating question! I believe it's entirely possible to admire someone's bravery while still feeling a sense of fear. For instance, when we witness someone taking a stand for what they believe in, it can evoke a profound respect—this admiration for courage can be inspiring. However, at the same time, it might also highlight our own insecurities, making us acutely aware of the risks involved. So, while we can celebrate their bravery, it’s natural to feel a twinge of fear, especially if the situation resonates with our own experiences or potential vulnerabilities. Ultimately, this duality enriches our understanding of human nature and the complexities of courage.

Discussion · Q3

How important is courage in forming a person's character and affecting their decisions in life?

Bravery plays a pivotal role in shaping a person's character and influencing their life choices. It encourages individuals to step out of their comfort zones and face challenges head-on, which can ultimately lead to personal growth and resilience. For instance, someone who takes the brave step of pursuing their passion, despite societal expectations, often discovers their true potential and authenticity. Moreover, acts of bravery can inspire others, creating a ripple effect that fosters a culture of courage and determination. Ultimately, embracing bravery can transform not just an individual’s life but also the lives of those around them.

Discussion · Q4

Why do some people show courage in tough situations while others do not?

That's a fascinating question! The display of bravery often boils down to a combination of innate temperament and life experiences. Some individuals may possess a natural inclination towards being courageous, perhaps stemming from their upbringing or their personal values. On the other hand, those who struggle to show bravery in challenging situations might have faced overwhelming fear or trauma in the past, which can understandably hinder their ability to act decisively. Additionally, factors like social support and external influences, such as role models or cultural expectations, can also play a crucial role in shaping how people respond when faced with adversity. Ultimately, it’s a complex interplay of psychology and circumstance!

Discussion · Q5

How could the idea of bravery change in the future as society's values shift?

That's a fascinating question! As societal values evolve, I think the perception of bravery will shift significantly, particularly in how we define what it means to be courageous. Traditionally, bravery has often been associated with physical acts, like fighting in wars or rescuing someone from danger. However, as we increasingly recognize the importance of mental health and emotional resilience, I believe acts of vulnerability and standing up for marginalized voices will be seen as equally brave. Additionally, with the rise of technology, the digital landscape is presenting new challenges, and tackling online bullying or advocating for social justice through social media can also be viewed as acts of courage. Overall, as we continue to evolve as a society, I anticipate that our understanding of bravery will expand to encompass a broader range of heroic actions that reflect the values of empathy, inclusivity, and integrity.

Discussion · Q6

What can be done to help more people be brave in their everyday lives?

Encouraging people to act courageously in their daily lives is a multifaceted challenge, but I believe there are several effective measures we can take. First and foremost, creating a culture of support is essential. When individuals feel that their actions, no matter how small, are appreciated and celebrated by their communities, they're more likely to step out of their comfort zones. Additionally, educational programs that focus on resilience and decision-making can empower individuals to make braver choices in everyday situations. Moreover, sharing stories of ordinary people who have exhibited remarkable courage can serve as powerful inspiration. These narratives can foster a sense of connection, reminding us that courage is not just reserved for heroes, but is accessible to all of us in our daily interactions. Lastly, I think promoting open dialogue about fears and vulnerabilities can help dismantle the stigma around failing or making mistakes, thereby encouraging a more courageous mindset.

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