IELTS Speaking Part 1

Torches: 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 torches 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 use a torch?

Not on a daily basis, to be honest. I mainly reach for one if there is a sudden power cut or if I need to rummage around in the attic to find old suitcases. The last time I actually used a proper one was during a severe storm last winter.

2

Do you prefer using a proper torch or the light on your mobile phone?

For quick everyday tasks, definitely my phone light because it is always in my pocket. But if I am out walking the dog late at night down unlit country lanes, I would rather take a heavy-duty torch since the beam is much stronger and it does not drain my battery.

3

Did you ever use a torch when you were a child?

Yes, all the time! My brother and I used to build dens in the living room using sofa cushions and blankets, and we would sit inside reading comic books by torchlight. It felt like a proper adventure back then, especially on gloomy, rainy afternoons.

4

In what situations do you think having a torch is essential?

I would say when you are camping in the countryside or dealing with an emergency like a blown fuse at home. Without one, you are pretty much left fumbling in the dark, which can be quite hazardous if you need to find supplies or navigate uneven ground.

5

Have you ever bought a torch as a gift for someone?

Actually, yes, I bought a head torch for my dad last year for his birthday. He loves hiking and doing DIY projects in the garage, so having something hands-free made life a lot easier for him, and he genuinely appreciated it.

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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8 words

Useful vocabulary

  • power cut

    a temporary interruption in the electricity supply

  • rummage around

    to search for something by moving things about

  • heavy-duty

    strong and designed to withstand hard use

  • drain (a battery)

    to use up all the stored energy

  • by torchlight

    illuminated only using light from a torch

  • blown fuse

    a safety component breaking when overloaded with electricity

  • fumbling in the dark

    moving or searching clumsily without good vision

  • hands-free

    usable without needing to hold it with hands

  • →Use British terminology such as 'torch' and 'power cut' naturally instead of American equivalents like 'flashlight'.
  • →Contrast traditional standalone torches with smartphone lights to demonstrate a broad range of everyday vocabulary.
  • →Include brief personal anecdotes, such as childhood games or DIY tasks, to keep your responses lively.

Keep practising

More Part 1 topics

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