IELTS Speaking Part 1 - Practice (Free Time)

How the drill works

1. Record your answer. You hear the question, start recording on your phone, and answer when the timer starts.
2. Learn useful words for that question, with an example for each.
3. Learn one grammar pattern and make your own sentence with it.
4. Hear two sample answers: an extrovert (a more outgoing speaker) and an introvert.
5. Get one pronunciation tip.
6. Record again and listen to both of your answers.
7. Drill the key words: listen and repeat, shadowing, fill the gap, and say it with the pattern.
8. Take a mock test with the examiner, then check the recap.

Pause the video whenever you see the pause sign. The more you do, the more you’ll improve.

Question 1

Do you often have free time? Why or why not?

Words: downtime, kick back, me-time, unwind

Pattern (make space for something): I try to make time for ___ .

• I try to make time for exercise.
• I try to make time for my family.

Extrovert: “Not really, but I try to make time for some downtime on weekends. Even if I’m busy, I like to kick back with a movie, or hang out with friends.”

Introvert: “Yes, I always plan some me-time during the week. I try to make time for it, because it helps me unwind and recharge after work.”

Pronunciation tip (word stress): downtime → “DOWN-time”, not “down-TIME” (stress the first syllable).

Question 2

What do you usually do in your spare time?

Words: binge, chill, pass the time

Pattern (talk about a habit): When I have free time, I ___ .

• When I have free time, I read.
• When I have free time, I go for a walk.

Extrovert: “When I have free time, I usually binge shows, or chill at a café with friends. Sometimes I also go for a quick walk to pass the time.”

Introvert: “When I have free time, I enjoy reading, or listening to music. It’s a quiet way to unwind, and pass the time peacefully.”

Pronunciation tip (the j sound): binge → “BINJ”, not “BING” (g = j).

Question 3

On which day do you have more free time, Saturday or Sunday?

Words: take it easy, run errands, rushed

Pattern (compare and give a reason): I have more free time on ___ , since ___ .

• I have more free time on Sunday, since I don’t work.
• I have more free time on Saturday, since I have no classes.

Extrovert: “Definitely Saturday! I have more free time on Saturday, since there’s no work. I use it to kick back, or meet up with people. Sunday usually feels a bit rushed, with chores and getting ready for Monday.”

Introvert: “I have more free time on Sunday, since Saturday is when I run errands. So I use Sunday to take it easy, and catch up on reading.”

Pronunciation tip (vowel sound): Sunday → “SUN-day”, not “SOON-day” (u, like in fun).

Question 4

Would you like to have more free time in the future? Why or why not?

Words: get away, packed, value

Pattern (talk about a wish): I’d love to have more time to ___ .

• I’d love to have more time to travel.
• I’d love to have more time to read.

Extrovert: “Absolutely! I’d love to have more time to get away for short trips, or just chill with friends. Right now, my schedule is pretty packed, so I really value any free moments.”

Introvert: “Yes, I would. I’d love to have more time to focus on hobbies, and unwind more often. I really value a good balance between work and rest.”

Pronunciation tip (the ch sound): future → “FYOO-cher”, not “FOO-toor” (t = ch).

All 4 questions: words and patterns

Practise it yourself

1. Record yourself answering all four questions without looking at this page.
2. Listen back. Did you use a pattern and at least one new word in each answer?
3. Try this routine with any Part 1 topic: record, learn, drill, and test yourself. Then try the practice question below.