IELTS Speaking Part 1

Mirrors: questions and Band 8 answers

The examiner asks three to five short questions on two or three everyday topics in the first four to five minutes. Here are 5 questions about mirrors written by BandLadder in the examiner's style, each with a Band 8 sample answer. Aim for two or three sentences each: answer, reason, one detail.
  • 5 questions
  • 5 Band 8 answers
  • 4 to 5 minutes

5 answers

Sample answers

1

Do you often look in the mirror?

Not excessively, to be fair, but certainly a few times a day. I usually have a quick glance in the morning when I'm brushing my teeth and shaving, and perhaps once more before stepping out of the flat. I just like to make sure I look reasonably presentable.

2

Have you ever bought a mirror for your home?

Yes, I bought a full-length one about six months ago. My bedroom didn't have anywhere to check my whole outfit, so I picked up a simple framed mirror from a local homeware shop and leaned it against the wall. It's proved really handy.

3

Do you use mirrors to decorate your room?

Definitely. I have a small hallway that doesn't get much natural light, so I hung a round decorative mirror there. It reflects the light from the living room and actually gives the illusion of extra space, which makes the whole flat feel slightly more spacious.

4

Do you prefer checking your reflection before going out?

I do, purely out of habit. It only takes a split second, but I like to give myself a quick once-over to ensure my hair isn't a mess and my collar is sitting properly. It just gives me peace of mind when heading into the office.

5

Did you look in mirrors much when you were a child?

Hardly ever, to be honest. Back then, I couldn't have cared less about how I looked. The only time I really paid attention was when my mum made me comb my hair before family gatherings, or when my brother and I pulled funny faces in the bathroom mirror.

Details are invented. Use the shape, not the sentences: examiners mark memorised answers down.

Answer out loud and get a band

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7 words

Useful vocabulary

  • have a quick glance

    look at something very briefly

  • presentable

    looking tidy and suitable for public view

  • full-length

    showing the entire human body from head to toe

  • gives the illusion of

    creates an impression of something that is not actually there

  • a quick once-over

    a fast visual inspection of yourself or something else

  • peace of mind

    a feeling of calm and freedom from worry

  • couldn't have cared less

    was completely indifferent or unconcerned

  • →Use conversational fillers like 'to be fair' or 'to be honest' to make your speech sound spontaneous.
  • →Avoid answering with just yes or no by explaining the practical habits behind how you use mirrors.
  • →Try to use descriptive phrases related to living spaces, such as 'natural light' or 'gives the illusion of space'.

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