IELTS Speaking Part 1 - Practice (Singing)

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 like singing? Why or why not?

Words: belt out, lift the mood, bring people together, in private

Pattern (add a limit): I enjoy it, but ___ .

• I enjoy it, but only with friends.
• I enjoy it, but I’m not very good at it.

Extrovert: “Yes, I love it! I’m always belting out songs at karaoke with my friends. It really lifts the mood, and brings people together. I enjoy it, but my neighbors probably don’t!”

Introvert: “Not really in public, but I do sing quietly in private. It helps me relax after a long day. So I enjoy it, but only when I’m alone.”

Pronunciation tip (word stress): karaoke → “ka-ree-OH-kee” (stress the third syllable).

Question 2

Have you ever learned how to sing? Why or why not?

Words: sign up for, formal lessons, technique

Pattern (give a reason in the past): ___ , because I wanted to ___ .

• I took lessons, because I wanted to sing better.
• I joined a choir, because I wanted to make friends.

Extrovert: “Yes! I signed up for a short singing course, because I wanted to belt out songs better at karaoke. It was fun, and I learned some useful breathing techniques.”

Introvert: “Not really. I once watched some online videos, because I wanted to sing more clearly. But I usually sing just for myself, so I never took formal lessons.”

Pronunciation tip (word stress): technique → “tek-NEEK”, not “TEK-nik” (stress the second syllable).

Question 3

Who would you like to sing for?

Words: crowd, someone close, setting

Pattern (imagine a choice): I’d probably ___ .

• I’d probably sing for my mom.
• I’d probably sing at a friend’s wedding.

Extrovert: “Honestly, I’d love to sing for a big crowd at a concert someday. The vibe of a cheering audience would be amazing. But to start, I’d probably just sing for my friends!”

Introvert: “I’d probably just sing for someone close, like my partner or my family. I’m more comfortable in small, quiet settings, so I’d prefer a peaceful vibe.”

Pronunciation tip (vowel sound): audience → “AW-dee-uns”, not “OW-dee-uns” (aw, like in law).

Question 4

Do you think singing can bring happiness to people? Why or why not?

Words: catchy, express, bring comfort

Pattern (make a strong point): Even if ___ , ___ .

• Even if you can’t sing well, it’s fun.
• Even if I’m tired, music cheers me up.

Extrovert: “Yes, absolutely! Singing lifts the mood, and brings people together. Even if someone’s having a bad day, a catchy tune can make them smile.”

Introvert: “Yes, I do. Singing helps people express feelings they can’t always say out loud. Even if it’s just a quiet song, it can bring comfort.”

Pronunciation tip (word stress): comfort → “KUM-fert”, not “com-FORT” (stress the first syllable).

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.