IELTS Speaking Part 1

IELTS Speaking Part 1: Makeup 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 makeup 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

4 answers

Makeup questions with sample answers

1

Do you often wear makeup?

Actually, I tend to keep my daily routine quite minimal, usually just sticking to some tinted moisturiser and mascara. I prefer a natural look for work, though I do enjoy putting on a bit more effort if I am heading out for a dinner or a special social occasion.

2

What does wearing makeup mean to you?

For me, it is primarily a form of creative self-expression rather than a necessity to hide imperfections. I find the process of applying cosmetics quite therapeutic, and it is a fun way to experiment with different aesthetics that complement my mood or the outfit I have chosen that day.

3

Do you give makeup as a gift?

To be honest, I rarely do because it is such a personal choice. Unless I know exactly which brand or specific shade someone prefers, I worry about buying something that might end up gathering dust in their drawer, so I usually opt for gift cards instead.

4

What do you think when you see a man wearing makeup?

I think it is completely normal and quite refreshing to see people challenging traditional gender norms. Whether someone uses subtle concealer to look polished for a meeting or more expressive styles for artistic reasons, it is great that modern society is becoming more inclusive regarding individual grooming preferences.

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

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6 words

Useful vocabulary and tips

  • minimal

    Using the smallest amount or degree possible.

  • therapeutic

    Having a healing or relaxing effect on the mind.

  • aesthetics

    A particular style or set of ideas about beauty.

  • gathering dust

    Something that is neglected and not being used.

  • polished

    Looking neat, smart, and well-groomed in appearance.

  • inclusive

    Including all the services or people intended for use.

  • →Answer directly before expanding with a personal detail or a specific reason.
  • →Use a range of vocabulary related to appearance rather than repeating the word makeup.

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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