IELTS Speaking Book 8 Test 1

PART 1: Neighbours

1. How well do you know the people who live next door to you?

   I know my neighbors quite well. We often say hello, and sometimes we have small talks about the weather or our day.

2. How often do you see them? [Why/Why not?]

   I see my neighbors almost every day because we live close and often meet when leaving the house.

3. What kinds of problems do people sometimes have with their neighbours?

   Sometimes, people argue about noise, parking spaces, or small things like garbage.

4. How do you think neighbours can help each other?

   Neighbors can help by looking after each other's homes, sharing things like tools, or offering help when needed.

PART 2: Describe a time when you were asked to give your opinion in a questionnaire or survey

One time, I was asked to give my opinion in a survey about the new park in our city. The survey asked if I liked the new playground and walking paths. I gave my opinion because I visit the park often. I said that I liked the park but thought it needed more benches. I felt good about giving my opinion because I think it helped improve the park for everyone.

PART 3: Discussion Topics

Asking questions:

1. What kinds of organizations want to find out about people’s opinions?

   Many organizations like schools, businesses, or city councils want to know what people think to improve their services.

2. Do you think that questionnaires or surveys are good ways of finding out people’s opinions?

   Yes, I think they are good because they let people share their thoughts easily, and organizations can collect many opinions quickly.

3. What reasons might people have for not wanting to give their opinions?

   Some people might not give their opinions because they are busy or feel like their opinion will not make a difference.

Questionnaires in school:

1. Do you think it would be a good idea for schools to ask students their opinions about lessons?

   Yes, I think it is a good idea because students know what they like or don't like, and their feedback can help make lessons better.

2. What would the advantages be for schools if they asked students their opinions?

   Schools could improve the way they teach, making lessons more interesting and helping students learn better.

3. Would there be any disadvantages in asking students’ opinions?

   Sometimes students might give opinions based on what they like instead of what is important for learning, which could be a disadvantage.

PART 1: Neighbours

1. How well do you know the people who live next door to you?

   I know my neighbors fairly well. We exchange pleasantries whenever we bump into each other, and we sometimes chat about the goings-on in the neighborhood.

2. How often do you see them? [Why/Why not?]

   I see them quite frequently, actually. We cross paths most mornings, either on our way to work or while running errands, so it’s easy to stay in touch.

3. What kinds of problems do people sometimes have with their neighbours?

   People sometimes butt heads over noise or parking spaces. Minor things can escalate quickly, especially when boundaries aren’t respected.

4. How do you think neighbours can help each other?

   Neighbors can really be a helping hand in times of need, like watching over each other’s homes or lending a hand with small tasks. It’s all about fostering a sense of community.

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PART 2: Describe a time when you were asked to give your opinion in a questionnaire or survey

A little while ago, I was asked to complete a survey about a new park that had just opened in my neighborhood. The survey was asking for feedback on the amenities, like the playground and walking paths. I was keen to share my thoughts because I felt that the park could use a few more benches. I gave my two cents, and I felt quite pleased because I think it might help make the park more comfortable for everyone who uses it. It was nice to feel like my opinion counted.

PART 3: Discussion Topics

Asking Questions:

1. What kinds of organizations want to find out about people’s opinions?

   Generally, a wide range of organizations, from government bodies to private companies, want to get the lowdown on public opinion. It helps them tailor their services and products to better suit people’s needs.

2. Do you think that questionnaires or surveys are good ways of finding out people’s opinions?
  Yes, surveys are a great way to gather feedback. They allow for a broad range of responses, and people often feel more comfortable giving their honest opinions when it’s anonymous.

3. What reasons might people have for not wanting to give their opinions?

   Some people may shy away from giving their opinions because they think their feedback will fall on deaf ears, or they might feel that it’s not worth their time.

Questionnaires in School:

1. Do you think it would be a good idea for schools to ask students their opinions about lessons?

   Absolutely! Students are on the front line of the learning experience, so their insights can be invaluable. It would give teachers a better idea of what works and what doesn’t.

2. What would the advantages be for schools if they asked students their opinions?

   Schools could hit the nail on the head when it comes to improving their teaching methods. By involving students, they could make lessons more engaging and effective, leading to better outcomes.

3. Would there be any disadvantages in asking students’ opinions?

   One downside might be that students focus too much on what they like rather than what’s actually useful for their education. It could sometimes lead to biased or less practical feedback.

1. Neighbours Section:

   - "We exchange pleasantries whenever we cross paths."

   - "People often butt heads over minor issues like noise."

   - "Lending a hand goes a long way in fostering community spirit."

2. Survey Section:

   - "I was keen to give my two cents on the matter."

   - "It felt rewarding to know my opinion counted."

   - "Sharing my thoughts was a breeze."

3. Discussion Section:

   - "It’s crucial to get the lowdown on public opinion."

   - "Surveys are a great way to gather feedback under the radar."

   - "They can hit the nail on the head with insightful feedback."

These phrases will add some flair and idiomatic expressions to your responses!