Speaking Part 1 Questions

A. YOUR HOME, NEIGHBOURHOOD AND COUNTRY

1. Do you live in a house or an apartment?

Band 6.5:
I live in an apartment. It’s not very big, but it’s comfortable and convenient for daily life. I think it’s easier to manage than a house.

Band 7:
I live in an apartment at the moment. It’s fairly compact, but it suits my lifestyle well because it’s convenient and easy to maintain. For me, practicality matters more than having a huge space.

2. What is your favourite room in your house?

Band 6.5:
My favourite room is the living room. It’s the most relaxing place in my home, and I like spending time there after work. It also feels quite open and comfortable.

Band 7:
My favourite room is definitely the living room. It’s the most comfortable part of the house, and I usually go there to relax, think, or chat with family. I also like the atmosphere because it feels bright and welcoming.

3. Which room do you spend the most time in?

Band 6.5:
I spend the most time in my study area. I often use my computer there for work or reading, so naturally I stay there the longest. It’s probably the most practical space in my home.

Band 7:
I probably spend the most time in my study or work area. Since I do a lot of reading, writing, and computer-based work, that space has become the centre of my daily routine. It’s not the most relaxing room, but it’s definitely the most useful one.

4. Do you like the area where you live?

Band 6.5:
Yes, I do. It’s quite convenient, and there are many useful places nearby like shops and restaurants. It’s also fairly safe, which is important to me.

Band 7:
Yes, overall I do like the area where I live. It’s convenient enough for daily life, and most of the things I need are within easy reach. What I appreciate most is that it feels practical without being too chaotic.

5. What facilities do you have in your neighbourhood?

Band 6.5:
There are quite a lot of facilities in my neighbourhood. We have convenience stores, supermarkets, cafés, restaurants, and pharmacies. There’s also a park nearby, which is nice.

Band 7:
My neighbourhood is actually quite well equipped. There are cafés, local restaurants, supermarkets, convenience stores, and even a small park within walking distance. So in terms of daily convenience, I’d say it works really well.

6. What would you like to change about your neighbourhood?

Band 6.5:
I’d like to reduce the traffic because sometimes it gets noisy and crowded. I think more green space would also improve the area. That would make it more pleasant to live in.

Band 7:
If I could change one thing, I’d improve the traffic situation because it can get quite noisy, especially during busy hours. I’d also like to see more trees and open spaces, since that would make the neighbourhood feel more relaxing and less crowded.

7. What do you like about your country?

Band 6.5:
What I like most about my country is the convenience. It’s easy to find good food, transportation, and useful services. I also think people are generally friendly.

Band 7:
What I like most about my country is the balance between convenience and culture. Daily life is quite efficient, but at the same time we still have strong local traditions and a warm social atmosphere. That combination makes the place feel both practical and human.

8. Tell me about the people in your country.

Band 6.5:
People in my country are usually friendly and hardworking. Many of them are polite and willing to help others, especially in daily situations. Family is also very important to a lot of people.

Band 7:
I’d say people in my country are generally warm, hardworking, and quite adaptable. They can be busy and practical in everyday life, but at the same time family ties and social relationships still matter a lot. So there’s a mix of modern pressure and traditional values.

9. Is your country popular with tourists?

Band 6.5:
Yes, I think so. Many tourists come for the food, the culture, and the scenery. It may not be the most famous country in the world, but it has a lot to offer.

Band 7:
Yes, I think my country is quite popular with tourists, especially those who enjoy food, local culture, and convenient travel. It may not always be the first destination people think of, but once they visit, many of them are pleasantly surprised by what it offers.

10. Where is a good place to visit in your country?

Band 6.5:
I think Taipei is a great place to visit. It has a good mix of modern life, traditional culture, and amazing food. It’s also quite convenient for tourists.

Band 7:
A really good place to visit is Taipei because it offers a bit of everything. You can experience modern city life, historical sites, local markets, and excellent food all in one place. It’s also very accessible, which makes it ideal for visitors.

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B. TECHNOLOGY AND THE INTERNET

1. How often do you use a computer?

Band 6.5:
I use a computer every day. I need it for work, reading, and looking for information online. It’s an essential part of my daily life.

Band 7:
I use a computer on a daily basis, probably for several hours a day. It’s important for both my work and personal tasks, so I rely on it quite heavily. In fact, it would be hard for me to work efficiently without one.

2. What do you use computers for?

Band 6.5:
I mainly use computers for work, research, and writing. I also use them to watch videos and read the news. So I use them for both practical and personal reasons.

Band 7:
I mainly use computers for work-related tasks like writing, research, and communication. Beyond that, I also use them for reading articles, watching videos, and organizing information. So for me, a computer is both a professional tool and a source of convenience.

3. Do you use a mobile phone a lot?

Band 6.5:
Yes, I do. I use it for messaging, calls, checking email, and browsing the Internet. It’s something I use many times a day.

Band 7:
Yes, quite a lot, actually. I use my phone not just for communication, but also for checking information, managing messages, and dealing with small daily tasks. It has basically become part of modern life.

4. Is it OK for children to have mobile phones?

Band 6.5:
I think it can be OK, but it depends on their age. A phone can be useful for safety and communication, but children should not use it too much. Parents need to set limits.

Band 7:
I think it’s acceptable to some extent, especially for safety or staying in touch with family. However, children definitely need clear boundaries because it’s very easy for them to become dependent on screens. So the real issue is not the phone itself, but how it’s used.

5. Do you like modern technology?

Band 6.5:
Yes, I do. It makes life easier and saves a lot of time. I think technology is very helpful when it is used properly.

Band 7:
Yes, generally I do like modern technology. It has made communication, work, and access to information much more efficient. As long as people use it wisely, I think it brings a lot of benefits.

6. What modern technology don't you like?

Band 6.5:
I don’t like technology that makes people too dependent on screens. Some apps are designed to be addictive, and they waste a lot of time. I think that is one negative side of technology.

Band 7:
What I dislike is technology that encourages unhealthy habits, especially endless scrolling or constant distraction. Some digital platforms seem to be designed to capture attention rather than genuinely help people. I think that can damage concentration and even mental well-being.

7. How often do you use the Internet?

Band 6.5:
I use the Internet every day. I need it for work, news, entertainment, and communication. It’s almost impossible to avoid it nowadays.

Band 7:
I use the Internet throughout the day, every day. It’s involved in almost everything I do, from work and communication to learning and entertainment. At this point, it’s basically part of daily infrastructure.

8. Do you use social media sites?

Band 6.5:
Yes, I do, but not all the time. I mainly use social media to keep up with news or see what other people are doing. I try not to spend too much time on it.

Band 7:
Yes, I use social media, though I try to do so in moderation. I mainly use it to follow updates, trends, and occasionally useful content. That said, I’m quite aware that it can become a distraction if I’m not careful.

9. What is your favourite website?

Band 6.5:
My favourite website is probably YouTube. I can use it to learn new things, watch interviews, and enjoy music or entertainment. It’s both useful and interesting.

Band 7:
If I had to choose one, I’d say YouTube is my favourite website. I like it because it combines learning and entertainment in a very convenient way. I can watch educational content one moment and relax with music or interviews the next.

10. Is it bad to use the Internet too much?

Band 6.5:
Yes, I think so. If people spend too much time online, it can affect their sleep, health, and communication with others. So I think balance is very important.

Band 7:
Yes, excessive Internet use can definitely be harmful. It can reduce attention span, interfere with sleep, and even weaken real-life relationships if people become too absorbed in the online world. So I’d say the key issue is self-control.

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C. SPORTS AND LEISURE ACTIVITIES

1. How often do you play sports or do exercise?

Band 6.5:
I try to exercise a few times a week. Usually I do light exercise like walking rather than very intense sports. I think regular movement is important for health.

Band 7:
I try to stay active a few times a week, although I’m not always perfectly consistent. Most of the time I prefer lighter forms of exercise, such as walking or stretching, rather than highly competitive sports. For me, sustainability matters more than intensity.

2. What sports are popular in your country?

Band 6.5:
In my country, baseball, basketball, and badminton are very popular. A lot of people also go jogging or work out in the gym. So there are both team sports and individual activities.

Band 7:
Sports like baseball, basketball, and badminton are especially popular in my country. In recent years, fitness culture has also grown a lot, so more people are doing gym workouts, jogging, or other forms of personal exercise. It’s become quite diverse.

3. Did you play sports at school?

Band 6.5:
Yes, I did. I joined PE classes and sometimes played sports with classmates. I wasn’t a top athlete, but I enjoyed being active.

Band 7:
Yes, I did play sports at school, mainly through PE lessons and casual activities with classmates. I wouldn’t say I was especially athletic, but I did enjoy the social side of it. It was a good break from academic pressure.

4. Do you prefer playing sports or watching them?

Band 6.5:
I prefer playing sports or doing exercise. I think it is better for my health, and it feels more active than just watching. I also find it more refreshing.

Band 7:
I definitely prefer playing sports, or at least being physically active, rather than just watching. It feels more engaging, and I get a real sense of energy and mental refreshment from it. Watching can be entertaining, but participating feels more meaningful to me.

5. How often do you watch sports?

Band 6.5:
I don’t watch sports very often. Usually I only watch big events or important matches. So it’s more occasional than regular.

Band 7:
To be honest, I don’t watch sports that often. I usually pay attention only when there’s a major event or a particularly important game. So it’s more of an occasional interest than a regular habit.

6. Have you ever been part of a sports team or club?

Band 6.5:
Yes, I have joined group activities before. It was a good experience because I could exercise and also spend time with other people. I think team sports help people learn cooperation.

Band 7:
Yes, I’ve taken part in team or group-based sports activities before, though not at a highly competitive level. I think that kind of experience is valuable because it teaches cooperation, discipline, and social skills at the same time. It also makes exercise more enjoyable.

7. What type of exercise do you enjoy doing?

Band 6.5:
I enjoy walking the most. It’s simple, relaxing, and easy to do regularly. It also helps me clear my mind.

Band 7:
I particularly enjoy walking because it’s simple, sustainable, and surprisingly effective. It helps me stay active without putting too much pressure on my body, and it also gives me time to think. So it benefits me both physically and mentally.

8. Do you have a favourite sportsperson?

Band 6.5:
I don’t really follow sportspersons very closely. But I respect athletes who are disciplined and hardworking. I think their attitude is very inspiring.

Band 7:
I don’t have one specific favourite sportsperson, but I do admire athletes who show strong discipline and mental strength. What impresses me most is not just talent, but the ability to stay focused and consistent over time. I think that quality is admirable in any field.

9. Do you like watching the Olympics?

Band 6.5:
Yes, I do. I like the Olympics because it brings people from different countries together. It’s exciting and has a special atmosphere.

Band 7:
Yes, I really do enjoy watching the Olympics. I think it’s special because it brings together athletes from all over the world and creates a strong sense of global connection. I also like the fact that it introduces people to sports they might not normally watch.

10. What new sport do you want to try?

Band 6.5:
I’d like to try tennis. It looks fun, and I think it would be a good way to improve fitness and concentration. I’ve never learned it properly before.

Band 7:
I’d like to try tennis because it seems both enjoyable and mentally engaging. It requires focus, coordination, and strategy, which I find appealing. I think it would be a refreshing challenge for me.

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D. YOUR HOBBIES AND INTERESTS

1. What do you do in your free time?

Band 6.5:
In my free time, I usually read, listen to music, or watch videos online. Sometimes I also go for a walk or meet friends. I prefer activities that help me relax.

Band 7:
In my free time, I tend to do things that are both relaxing and mentally engaging, like reading, listening to music, or watching interesting videos. Sometimes I also go for a walk just to clear my mind. I prefer hobbies that help me recharge rather than overstimulate me.

2. Do you enjoy reading?

Band 6.5:
Yes, I do. Reading helps me learn new ideas and understand different points of view. I think it is a very valuable habit.

Band 7:
Yes, I genuinely enjoy reading. It allows me to explore new ideas, think more deeply, and sometimes even challenge my own opinions. For me, reading is both enjoyable and intellectually rewarding.

3. Do you read or write stories or poems?

Band 6.5:
Not very often, but I do like creative writing. Sometimes I write down ideas or thoughts when I feel inspired. I think stories and poems can express feelings very well.

Band 7:
I don’t do it regularly, but I do appreciate creative writing, especially when I’m in a reflective mood. Occasionally I write down thoughts, short passages, or ideas rather than full stories or poems. I find that kind of writing quite expressive and personal.

4. Do you play a musical instrument?

Band 6.5:
No, I don’t. I never learned properly when I was younger. But I do enjoy listening to music a lot.

Band 7:
No, I don’t play a musical instrument at the moment. It’s something I never really had the chance to learn seriously, although I’ve always admired people who can play well. Music still matters to me, just more as a listener than a performer.

5. Would you like to learn to play a musical instrument?

Band 6.5:
Yes, I would. I think piano or guitar would be good choices because they are popular and versatile. It would be nice to have that skill.

Band 7:
Yes, I’d definitely like to learn one someday, probably the piano or the guitar. Both are expressive and flexible, and I think learning either one would be both relaxing and rewarding. It’s the kind of skill that stays with you for life.

6. What hobbies are popular in your country?

Band 6.5:
Many people enjoy travelling, watching dramas, singing karaoke, and going to cafés. Hiking and fitness are also becoming more popular. People have many different interests nowadays.

Band 7:
A lot of hobbies are popular in my country, depending on age and lifestyle. Travelling, café culture, watching dramas, and karaoke are all common, while hiking and fitness have become more popular in recent years. Overall, I’d say people’s hobbies are becoming more varied than before.

7. Do you like computer games?

Band 6.5:
Not really. I understand why people enjoy them, but they are not my main interest. I usually prefer activities that feel more meaningful or relaxing.

Band 7:
Not particularly, to be honest. I can see why computer games are entertaining, but I personally prefer activities that feel either more reflective or more useful. So while I don’t dislike them, they’re not really my preferred way to spend time.

8. Do you have any creative hobbies like painting, writing, or music?

Band 6.5:
Yes, I do. I’m especially interested in writing and creative thinking. I enjoy activities where I can express ideas in my own way.

Band 7:
Yes, I’d say I do, especially in the area of writing and idea development. I enjoy hobbies that involve imagination, self-expression, and exploring meaning. For me, creativity is not only a hobby but also a way of thinking.

9. Do you have any active hobbies like sports, hiking or dancing?

Band 6.5:
Yes, I like walking and sometimes doing light exercise. I think active hobbies are good because they improve health and reduce stress. I’d like to do more outdoor activities in the future.

Band 7:
Yes, although my active hobbies are relatively simple. I enjoy walking and light physical activity because they help me stay healthy and mentally refreshed. I’d actually like to do more outdoor activities whenever I have the chance.

10. Do you prefer to do your hobbies alone or with other people?

Band 6.5:
It depends on the hobby. For reading or thinking, I prefer to be alone. But for travelling or exercise, I think doing them with other people can be more enjoyable.

Band 7:
It really depends on the nature of the hobby. For quiet activities like reading or writing, I definitely prefer being alone because I can focus better. But for things like travel, exercise, or shared experiences, I think company makes them more enjoyable.

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E. STUDYING

1. What do/did you study?

Band 6.5:
I studied subjects related to design and creativity. My field is connected to problem solving and understanding people’s needs. I find it both practical and interesting.

Band 7:
I studied areas related to design, creativity, and innovation. What I like about this field is that it combines human understanding with practical problem solving. So it’s both intellectually interesting and useful in real life.

2. Why do/did you want to study that?

Band 6.5:
I chose it because I have always been interested in creativity and solving problems. I wanted to study something that could be useful in real life. That made it meaningful to me.

Band 7:
I chose that subject because I’ve long been interested in creativity, human behaviour, and how ideas can solve real problems. I didn’t want to study something that felt too abstract or disconnected from life. I wanted a field that could create actual value.

3. What subject do you enjoy studying most?

Band 6.5:
I enjoy studying creativity and design-related subjects the most. They are interesting because they allow both logical thinking and imagination. I find that combination very attractive.

Band 7:
The subjects I enjoy most are those related to creativity, design thinking, and human-centred problem solving. I find them fascinating because they combine structure with imagination. That balance keeps the learning process stimulating for me.

4. Do you prefer to study alone or with other people?

Band 6.5:
I usually prefer to study alone because I can focus better. I like to work at my own pace without distraction. But sometimes group study is helpful for discussion.

Band 7:
In general, I prefer studying alone because I can concentrate more deeply and manage my own pace. However, if the topic involves discussion or exchanging ideas, studying with others can be very valuable. So my preference depends a bit on the task.

5. What was your worst subject at school?

Band 6.5:
My worst subject was probably one that required a lot of memorization. I usually learn better when I can understand ideas instead of just remembering facts. So those subjects were more difficult for me.

Band 7:
I’d say my weakest subject was probably one that relied heavily on memorization rather than analysis. I tend to do much better when I can understand patterns or concepts instead of simply learning facts by heart. So subjects that felt mechanical were harder for me.

6. Do/Did you have a favourite teacher?

Band 6.5:
Yes, I did. My favourite teachers were the ones who were passionate and made the class interesting. I always appreciated teachers who encouraged students instead of just giving instructions.

Band 7:
Yes, definitely. My favourite teachers were the ones who were not only knowledgeable, but also genuinely passionate about teaching. I especially appreciated those who encouraged independent thinking rather than expecting students to memorise everything.

7. Are you planning to take any courses soon?

Band 6.5:
Yes, I am open to taking more courses in the future. I’m interested in anything that can improve my professional skills or language ability. I think learning should continue throughout life.

Band 7:
Yes, I’m very open to taking more courses, especially those that strengthen my professional development or language skills. I see learning as an ongoing process rather than something that ends after formal education. So I’m always interested in useful opportunities.

8. How long have you been studying English?

Band 6.5:
I’ve been studying English for many years, since I was a student. Of course, some periods were more serious than others. Recently, I’ve been trying to improve it more actively.

Band 7:
I’ve been studying English for quite a long time, starting from my school years. That said, the intensity has varied over time, and recently I’ve been putting more serious effort into improving it. So it’s been a long journey, but one I’m still continuing.

9. Do you think English will be important for you in the future?

Band 6.5:
Yes, definitely. English is important for communication, work, and getting information from around the world. I think it will continue to be useful for me.

Band 7:
Yes, absolutely. English is important not only for communication, but also for academic work, professional growth, and access to global knowledge. I think its value will only become greater in the future.

10. Would you like to learn any other languages?

Band 6.5:
Yes, I would. Learning another language can help people understand different cultures better. I think it is a very meaningful skill.

Band 7:
Yes, I would love to learn another language if I had enough time. I think language learning opens the door not just to communication, but also to culture and different ways of thinking. That’s what makes it so valuable.

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F. WORK

1. What do you do?

Band 6.5:
I work in a field related to design, consulting, and education. My work involves ideas, communication, and helping people solve problems. It is quite varied, which I like.

Band 7:
I work in an area that combines design, consulting, and education. A lot of what I do involves generating ideas, communicating clearly, and helping people improve or solve problems. What I like is that it’s quite interdisciplinary rather than repetitive.

2. What is the most important part of your job?

Band 6.5:
The most important part of my job is creating value for other people. I want my work to be useful and meaningful. If it helps someone solve a problem, I feel satisfied.

Band 7:
The most important part of my job is being able to create meaningful value for others. Whether that means solving a problem, offering guidance, or helping someone improve, I want the work to have a real impact. Otherwise, it feels less worthwhile.

3. Do you work with other people or alone?

Band 6.5:
I do both. Some tasks require me to work alone and focus deeply, while others need discussion and teamwork. I think both are important.

Band 7:
I actually do both, depending on the nature of the task. Some work requires independent concentration, while other parts are much better done through discussion and collaboration. Ideally, I think a balance between the two works best.

4. What do you like about your job?

Band 6.5:
I like the creative side of my job. I also enjoy the fact that I can help people and use my ideas in practical ways. That makes the work feel rewarding.

Band 7:
What I like most is that my job allows me to combine creativity with practical impact. I enjoy thinking deeply, developing ideas, and then seeing those ideas actually help people. That gives the work a strong sense of purpose.

5. What do you not like about your job?

Band 6.5:
One thing I don’t like is uncertainty. Sometimes projects take a long time, or other people’s decisions slow things down. That can be frustrating.

Band 7:
What I dislike most is probably the uncertainty that comes with some projects. Even when the ideas are strong, progress can be delayed by timing, coordination, or other people’s decisions. That part can definitely be frustrating.

6. Why did you choose your job?

Band 6.5:
I chose this job because it matches my interests and strengths. I’ve always liked creativity, communication, and helping others. So it felt like a natural choice for me.

Band 7:
I chose this kind of work because it aligns closely with both my interests and my strengths. I’ve always been drawn to creativity, problem solving, and helping people grow, so this path felt quite natural. It gives me a sense of meaning as well as challenge.

7. Do you work long hours?

Band 6.5:
Sometimes I do. When I’m busy or working on an important project, I can spend many hours on it. But I know it’s important not to overwork all the time.

Band 7:
Yes, sometimes I do work long hours, especially when I’m deeply involved in a project that matters to me. I tend to become very focused once I’m engaged in something important. Still, I try to remind myself that overworking is not sustainable in the long run.

8. Do you think work-life balance is important?

Band 6.5:
Yes, I do. Without balance, people can become stressed and tired very easily. I think rest is necessary if you want to work well.

Band 7:
Yes, I think work-life balance is extremely important. Without it, people may become exhausted, less productive, and even emotionally drained over time. I believe meaningful work is important, but so are health, relationships, and rest.

9. What is your journey like to and from work?

Band 6.5:
My journey is usually manageable. I prefer a smooth and simple commute because it affects my mood for the day. If the journey is too stressful, I feel tired more easily.

Band 7:
My commute is generally manageable, and I’ve realised that it influences my mood more than I used to think. If the journey is smooth, I tend to start the day in a better frame of mind. On the other hand, a stressful commute can drain energy before work even begins.

10. What is your dream job?

Band 6.5:
My dream job would be something meaningful and creative. I’d like work that allows me to use my ideas, help people, and still have some freedom. For me, purpose is very important.

Band 7:
My dream job would combine creativity, independence, and meaningful impact. I’d like to do work where I can use my ideas, influence others positively, and still maintain a certain level of freedom. For me, purpose matters more than just status or income.

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Fast way to hear the Band difference

Here is the pattern:

Band 6.5

• clear answer

• simple development

• natural but a bit safer

Example:
I live in an apartment. It’s comfortable and convenient, and it’s easier to manage than a house.

Band 7

• same idea, but more natural and flexible

• slightly better vocabulary

• more precise extension

Example:
I live in an apartment at the moment. It’s fairly compact, but it suits my lifestyle well because it’s convenient and easy to maintain.

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What pushes 6.5 to 7 in Part 1

Try adding phrases like:

• at the moment

• overall

• to be honest

• what I like most is…

• I tend to…

• it depends on…

• that said…

• in the long run

And avoid:

• one-line answers

• memorized-sounding expressions

• over-complicated vocabulary you can’t pronounce smoothly