IELTS Speaking Book 15 Test 1

PART 1: Sample Answers (Email Topic)

Q1: What kinds of emails do you receive about your work or studies?
Sample Answer:
I usually receive emails from my teachers and classmates regarding assignments, exam schedules, or updates about classes. Sometimes, I also get newsletters or notifications from online learning platforms I’m subscribed to.

Q2: Do you prefer to email, phone or text your friends? Why?
Sample Answer:
I usually prefer texting my friends because it’s quick and convenient. However, if it’s something important or urgent, I might call them. I don’t use email for personal communication very often.

Q3: Do you reply to emails and messages as soon as you receive them? Why/Why not?
Sample Answer:
If it’s something urgent or related to my studies, I reply as soon as I can. But if it's something that doesn't need an immediate response, I may reply later when I have more time.

Q4: Are you happy to receive emails that are advertising things? Why/Why not?
Sample Answer:
Not really. Most advertising emails are not useful to me, and they just fill up my inbox. I usually delete them without reading unless it’s from a brand I like or something I’m interested in.

PART 2: Cue Card – Describe a hotel you know

Sample Answer:

One hotel that I know quite well is The Grand Lakeview Hotel, which is located near the lake in my hometown. It’s just a 10-minute drive from the city center, and many tourists stay there because of the beautiful view and peaceful surroundings.

The hotel is a modern building with about five floors. It has a large glass entrance, a stylish lobby, and elegant furniture throughout. The rooms are spacious, clean, and decorated in a simple but classy way.

It offers many facilities such as a swimming pool, a gym, a spa, and even a rooftop restaurant where you can enjoy a meal while looking over the lake. The staff are very friendly and always ready to help.

I think it’s a great hotel to stay in, especially for people who want comfort and a bit of luxury. I’ve stayed there once during a family celebration, and I had a wonderful experience. I would definitely recommend it to others.

PART 3: Discussion Topics

Staying in Hotels

Q1: What things are important when people are choosing a hotel?
Sample Answer:
I think the most important factors are location, cleanliness, price, and facilities. People often want a hotel that is close to tourist spots or transport. Clean rooms and good service also matter a lot.

Q2: Why do some people not like staying in hotels?
Sample Answer:
Some people may not like the lack of privacy or may feel uncomfortable in unfamiliar places. Others may worry about hygiene or simply prefer the comfort of their own home or a rented apartment.

Q3: Do you think staying in a luxury hotel is a waste of money?
Sample Answer:
It depends on the person. For someone who enjoys comfort and excellent service, it might be worth it. But if you're just using the room to sleep and spend most of your time outside, a budget hotel might make more sense.

Working in a Hotel

Q1: Do you think hotel work is a good career for life?
Sample Answer:
It can be, especially for people who enjoy meeting new people and working in a fast-paced environment. There are many opportunities to grow, especially in large hotel chains.

Q2: How does working in a big hotel compare with working in a small hotel?
Sample Answer:
In a big hotel, there are usually more staff and specialized roles, which means employees focus on one task. In smaller hotels, one person might have to handle multiple responsibilities, so it can be more demanding but also more diverse.

Q3: What skills are needed to be a successful hotel manager?
Sample Answer:
A hotel manager needs strong leadership and communication skills. They should be good at problem-solving and managing a team. Organizational skills and the ability to handle customer complaints calmly are also essential.