IELTS Speaking Part 1

IELTS Speaking Part 1: Going out questions and answers

IELTS Speaking Part 1 questions are short and personal: the examiner asks three to five on two or three everyday topics in the first four to five minutes. These are the 4 questions about going out in the BandLadder test bank, with Band 8 sample answers for the most frequent ones and useful vocabulary. Aim for two or three sentences each: answer, reason, one detail.
  • 4 questions
  • 4 Band 8 answers
  • 4 to 5 minutes
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4 answers

Going out questions with sample answers

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1

What kinds of things do you like to do when you go out?

I’m quite fond of visiting local art galleries or independent cinemas with a couple of close friends. We usually prefer low-key activities where we can actually hold a conversation, as it allows us to unwind after a demanding week at work.

2

When do you usually like to go out?

Typically, I prefer heading out on Friday evenings to mark the transition into the weekend. It’s the perfect time to visit a quiet bistro or café, as the city feels less frantic compared to the hustle of a busy Saturday night.

3

What kinds of things would you like to do, in the future, when you go out?

I am keen to explore more outdoor excursions, perhaps joining a hiking group that treks through the countryside. I’ve been spending too much time indoors recently, so the prospect of fresh air and scenic views is becoming increasingly appealing to me.

4

Do you spend a lot of money on going out every month?

To be honest, I keep a fairly tight budget by opting for affordable outings rather than expensive dining experiences. I find that I can have just as much fun grabbing a takeaway coffee and walking through the park as I can at a fancy restaurant.

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

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6 words

Useful vocabulary and tips

  • low-key

    quiet and relaxed without being too loud or flashy

  • demanding

    requiring a lot of effort, time, or mental energy

  • frantic

    conducted in a hurried, excited, and chaotic way

  • excursions

    short journeys or trips taken for pleasure or interest

  • appealing

    attractive and interesting to someone who sees it

  • takeaway

    prepared food bought from a shop to eat elsewhere

  • →Keep your answers concise while adding a specific personal detail to show natural fluency.
  • →Avoid memorised scripts and focus on responding naturally to the examiner's specific questions.

Frequently asked questions

How many questions are in IELTS Speaking Part 1?+

Usually about ten to twelve, over four to five minutes: a few on your work, study or home, then three or four short questions on each of two everyday topics.

How long should a Part 1 answer be?+

Two or three sentences, about 15 to 20 seconds: a direct answer, a reason and one detail. One-word answers cost fluency marks, and long speeches eat into the examiner's time.

Keep practising

More Part 1 topics

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