IELTS HUB
Full test with Band 9 answers

Speaking test #483

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?

Hair · Q1

What's your favourite hairstyle?

My favourite hairstyle would have to be a sleek and polished look. I like to keep my hair well-groomed and styled in a classic way.

Hair · Q2

How often do you have your hair cut?

I try to get my hair cut every 6-8 weeks, as I find that this helps keep it looking healthy and well-maintained.

Hair · Q3

How much do you usually spend on your hair?

I usually spend around $50 to $71 on a haircut, depending on where I go. I also like to invest in good hair care products to keep my hair looking its best, so I spend a bit more on those.

Hair · Q4

Do you often change your hairstyle?

I don't tend to change my hairstyle very often, as I like to keep it fairly consistent. However, I do occasionally experiment with different looks or trims to change things up a bit.

Handwriting · Q1

What kinds of things do you write by hand? [Why/Why not?

?] I write a variety of things by hand, such as notes, journal entries, and letters. I find that writing by hand allows me to process my thoughts in a different way and helps me to remember information better. It also has a certain level of personalization that typing on a computer cannot provide.

Handwriting · Q2

Do you prefer writing by hand or typing on a keyboard? [Why/Why not?

?] I prefer writing by hand because it allows me to have a more personal connection to the words I am writing. I also find that my handwriting is more legible and easier to read than my typing. However, I do appreciate the convenience and speed of typing when it comes to larger projects or work-related tasks.

Handwriting · Q3

Did you write more by hand when you were younger? [Why/Why not?

?] Yes, I wrote more by hand when I was younger because that was the primary method of writing in my school. We were encouraged to take notes and do our homework by hand, which helped me to develop my handwriting and note-taking skills.

Handwriting · Q4

When you write by hand, do you think in the same way as when you use a keyboard? [Why/Why not?

?] No, I do not think in the same way when I write by hand as when I use a keyboard. Writing by hand allows me to process my thoughts in a more organic and free-flowing manner, while typing on a keyboard is more structured and efficient. They each have their own unique benefits and I like to use them in different situations depending on my needs.

Part 2 · Cue card
Person Present CuriosityBrief EncountersBuilding Connections

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.

Person you only met once and want to know more about

You should say:

  • When and where you met this person
  • What was special about this person
  • Why you want to know more about this person
  • How you plan to find out more about them
285 words · 4 paragraphs
Point 1

When and where you met this person

I once had the chance to meet a fascinating individual during a charity event held at a local orphanage in my hometown. It was about two years ago when I encountered this person for the first and only time. The event took place on a sunny weekend afternoon, and I vividly recall the warmth and positivity exuded by this individual as soon as they walked into the room.

Point 2

What was special about this person

What struck me the most about this person was their genuine kindness and selflessness. Despite being a stranger in that setting, they effortlessly connected with everyone around them, especially the children at the orphanage. Their ability to bring a smile to the faces of those around them was truly remarkable. This person had a unique aura of compassion and empathy that left a lasting impression on me.

Point 3

Why you want to know more about this person

I am intrigued to know more about this individual because their brief encounter left me with a sense of inspiration and admiration. I am curious to learn about their background, their life experiences, and what drives them to spread positivity wherever they go. I believe that understanding more about this person's journey and values could provide valuable insights and lessons that I can apply to my own life.

Point 4

How you plan to find out more about them

To find out more about this intriguing individual, I plan to reach out to the organizers of the charity event to see if they have any contact information. I am also considering using social media platforms to try and locate this person, as I am eager to engage in a meaningful conversation with them. I hope that by connecting with them again, I can delve deeper into their story and potentially forge a friendship based on shared values of kindness and compassion.

The Band 9 answer in numbers
Words
285
Sentences
13
Words per sentence
21.9
Speaking time
about 2.2 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 do first impressions influence our interest in learning more about someone?

First impressions can have a profound impact on our desire to learn more about someone. When we meet someone for the first time, our brain quickly picks up on various cues, such as their body language and appearance, which can create a certain perception. If these initial cues are positive, they often spark our curiosity and make us eager to delve deeper into their personality and background. On the other hand, if the first impression is negative, it may lead us to form quick judgments that discourage further interaction. This phenomenon highlights the importance of being aware of how we present ourselves, as it can significantly influence the connections we form with others. Ultimately, first impressions act as a window into the potential of a relationship, either igniting interest or extinguishing it before it even begins.

Discussion · Q2

What are some reasons that could make people curious about others they have just met?

Curiosity about newly met individuals often stems from a desire to understand different perspectives and experiences. When we encounter someone new, it's like opening a book we've never read before, filled with stories and insights that can enrich our own lives. People are inherently social creatures, and there's a natural inclination to build connections and forge relationships. Additionally, the thrill of discovering what makes someone unique can be quite exhilarating—it's as if we’re piecing together a puzzle that showcases their personality and background. Lastly, in our increasingly globalized world, meeting someone from a different culture can ignite a profound interest in their way of life, beliefs, and traditions, making the interaction all the more exciting.

Discussion · Q3

How important is it for people to make connections with those they have met only for a short time?

Building connections, even with people we've only encountered briefly, can be incredibly significant! These fleeting interactions often hold the potential for unexpected opportunities or insightful exchanges that can enrich our lives. For instance, a simple chat with a stranger can lead to a new perspective or even a chance encounter that opens doors in our personal or professional lives. Moreover, these brief connections can foster a sense of community and belonging, reminding us that we are part of a larger tapestry of human experience. In a world that often feels isolated, these moments of connection can indeed be quite profound!

Discussion · Q4

Why do you think some people are more likely to connect with others after just one meeting?

I believe that some people are naturally more sociable and outgoing, which makes them feel comfortable reaching out after just one meeting. They often possess a certain charisma that draws others in, making them feel at ease. Additionally, some individuals are genuinely curious and eager to build connections, seeing every interaction as an opportunity to forge meaningful relationships. It’s fascinating how a single encounter can spark interest; perhaps they find common ground or share mutual interests that motivate them to follow up. Ultimately, it’s about that initial spark of connection and their willingness to nurture it further.

Discussion · Q5

How could social interactions look different in the future when it comes to short meetings?

The landscape of social interactions is certainly poised for transformation in the coming years, particularly when it comes to brief encounters. With the rise of technology, we might see an increase in spontaneous interactions facilitated by augmented reality and location-based apps that help people connect in real-time. Imagine walking down the street and receiving a notification about someone nearby who shares your interests—this could really enhance social engagement. On the flip side, there's a possibility that as people rely more on digital platforms, the quality of these brief encounters might diminish, leading to more superficial connections. However, I believe that human nature will always crave genuine interactions, so people may seek balance by intentionally engaging with others in their physical environments. Ultimately, it’s fascinating to think about how technology and human behavior will intersect to shape our social lives in the future!

Discussion · Q6

How can people build stronger connections with those they meet just once?

Building deeper relationships with people you meet only once can be quite challenging, but there are several effective methods to make that connection more meaningful. One approach is to engage in genuine conversation, where you ask open-ended questions that invite the other person to share their thoughts and experiences. This not only shows that you're interested in them, but it also creates a sense of emotional intimacy in a short span of time. Additionally, using active listening techniques, such as nodding and summarizing what they say, can make the other person feel valued and heard. Lastly, sharing a personal story or an experience can help to break down barriers and foster a sense of camaraderie, even if it's just for that brief encounter.

How our answers are made

Go further with the books

Speaking

Speaking Tips for IELTS

Proven Strategies for Band 8.0+

₹299$9.99CAD 13.99AUD 14.99£7.99NZD 16.99€8.99AED 39SGD 12.99

Free preview

Speaking

Speak Like a Band 9

Real Test Questions & High-Scoring Answers

₹299$9.99CAD 13.99AUD 14.99£7.99NZD 16.99€8.99AED 39SGD 12.99

Free preview

Speaking

Band 7+ Speaking Expressions

300 natural expressions for fluent, flexible speaking

₹199$6.99CAD 8.99AUD 9.99£4.99NZD 10.99€5.99AED 24SGD 8.99

Free preview