IELTS Speaking Part 1

IELTS Speaking Part 1: Telephoning 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 5 questions about telephoning 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.
  • 5 questions
  • 5 Band 8 answers
  • 4 to 5 minutes

5 answers

Telephoning questions with sample answers

1

How often do you make telephone calls?

I actually make calls quite sparingly these days because instant messaging is so convenient. I probably only dial someone's number a couple of times a week, usually when I need to clarify something urgent with a colleague or catch up briefly with my parents.

2

Do you sometimes prefer to send a text message instead of telephoning?

Frequently, yes. Sending a quick message is far less intrusive and allows me to convey information without interrupting the other person's schedule. It is my go-to method for casual check-ins or whenever I need to share specific details like an address that is easier to read.

3

When do you think you'll next make a telephone call?

I suspect I will be jumping on a call in about an hour to coordinate plans for my sister's birthday dinner. It is much more efficient to hash out the logistics verbally rather than waiting for a long thread of messages to ping back and forth.

4

Who do you spend the most time talking to on the telephone?

Without a shadow of a doubt, that would be my best friend who moved abroad last year. We make it a point to schedule a lengthy catch-up session every Sunday evening, which really helps us stay connected despite the significant time difference between us.

5

Who do you spend most time talking to on the telephone?

As I mentioned, my best friend is definitely the person I converse with most frequently. We usually spend at least an hour on the line during our weekend calls, discussing everything from our professional challenges to the latest series we have both been binge-watching recently.

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

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6 words

Useful vocabulary and tips

  • sparingly

    Doing something only in small amounts or infrequently.

  • intrusive

    Causing disruption or annoyance by being unwelcomed or uninvited.

  • hash out

    To discuss something in detail to reach an agreement.

  • logistics

    The detailed coordination of a complex operation or task.

  • binge-watching

    Watching multiple episodes of a television program in succession.

  • go-to

    The most reliable or favoured person or thing available.

  • →Use a mix of phrasal verbs and idioms to sound more natural and conversational.
  • →Avoid one-word answers; always provide a brief explanation or example to extend your response.

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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