IELTS SPEAKING SAMPLE

TOPIC: FESTIVALS
Part 1: Social Interaction

Let's talk about festivals

1. What’s your favorite festival?

My favorite festival is Christmas. I love the decorations, the music, and spending
time with my family. We usually have a big dinner and exchange gifts.

2. Are there many festivals in the area where you live?

Yes, there are quite a few festivals in my area. For example, we have a summer
music festival, a food festival, and a cultural festival where people from different
backgrounds share their traditions and food.

3. Do you think festivals are important?

Yes, I think festivals are very important. They bring people together and allow us to
celebrate our culture and traditions. They also provide a break from the routine and
create happy memories.

4. How did you last celebrate your birthday party?

I celebrated my last birthday with my friends and family. We had a small party at
home with lots of food, cake, and games. It was a lot of fun and I enjoyed spending
time with my loved ones.
II. VSTEP Speaking Part 2: Solution Discussion (4 mins)

Situation: You are considering a birthday present for a friend. There are three
suggestions: a clothing item, a book, a pair of movie tickets. Which one would
you choose?

Introduction:

Choosing a birthday present for a friend can be tough. There are three good options:
a clothing item, a book, and a pair of movie tickets. I will explain which one I would
choose and why.

Option 1: A Clothing Item

A clothing item is a nice gift. It could be a shirt, dress, or jeans. If you know your
friend's size and style, it can be great. But, it might not fit or they might not like it.

Option 2: A Book

A book is good for someone who likes to read. You can choose a novel, biography,
or self-help book. It can be meaningful and enjoyable. However, if your friend does
not read much, they might not like it.

Option 3: A Pair of Movie Tickets

A pair of movie tickets is a fun gift. Your friend can choose a movie and enjoy a nice
outing. It is also a chance to spend time together if you go with them. It is flexible and
fun.

My Choice: A Pair of Movie Tickets

I would choose a pair of movie tickets. Here are my reasons:

1. Fun Experience: Movie tickets give an enjoyable experience.

2. Flexible: My friend can pick the movie and time.
3. Bonding Time: We can watch the movie together and have fun.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, while a clothing item and a book are good options, I think a pair of
movie tickets is the best choice. It is fun, flexible, and a great way to spend time
together.
VSTEP Speaking Part 3: Topic Development (5 mins)

Topic: Traditional festivals present important values.

Introduction:
Traditional festivals are very important for our culture. In Vietnam, Tet Holiday, or the
Lunar New Year, is one of the biggest festivals. Tet has many important values.
Today, I will talk about how Tet improves spiritual life, honors community strength,
teaches history and culture, and another important value.

1. Improve Spiritual Life:

Firstly, Tet Holiday helps our spiritual life. During Tet, people go to temples to pray for
a good new year. Families also have altars at home to honor their ancestors. They
light incense and make offerings. These activities help people feel peaceful and
connected to their beliefs.

2. Honor Community Strength:

Secondly, Tet honors community strength. Tet is a time for family reunions. People
travel to be with their families. Families prepare traditional foods like Banh Chung
and share meals together. Neighbors visit each other and give lucky money to
children. This brings everyone closer and makes the community stronger.

3. Teach History and Culture:

Thirdly, Tet teaches history and culture. Many Tet traditions are very old, like making
Banh Chung, which represents the Earth. These traditions help teach children about
their culture and history. They learn to respect and continue these traditions.

4. Promote Economic Activity:

Another important value of Tet is promoting economic activity. Before Tet, markets
and shops are very busy. People buy new clothes, decorations, and food. This helps
the economy because businesses sell a lot of products. It also makes homes look
beautiful and festive.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, Tet Holiday in Vietnam presents many important values. It improves
spiritual life, honors community strength, teaches history and culture, and promotes
economic activity. These values make Tet a special and important festival for
everyone.