How to Speak About the Pandemic for a 7+ on IELTS

Jessica Beck, a former IELTS examiner, discusses how to naturally incorporate pandemic-related topics into speaking exams to achieve a score of 7 or higher. She emphasizes being genuine and provides examples for each part of the exam: discussing job-related questions, describing a party, and talking about wedding spending. The key is to be honest and authentic, reflecting on how the pandemic has changed personal and societal priorities.

Why is it important to discuss the pandemic in the IELTS speaking exam?

• It is the only way to achieve a high score.

• It helps to sound more natural and genuine.

• It is a trending topic worldwide.

• It is a mandatory topic in the exam.

What is an example of a topic you might discuss in Part 1 of the speaking exam?

• A recent vacation you took.

• Your favorite book.

• A movie you watched recently.

• The banter you miss with colleagues due to working from home.

How can you respond to a question about parties in Part 2 of the speaking exam?

• By talking about a party you plan to attend next month.

• By discussing how you haven't attended any parties recently due to the pandemic.

• By listing your favorite party foods.

• By describing a party you attended last week.

In Part 3, how might you discuss changes in wedding spending habits?

• By saying people are spending more on weddings now.

• By mentioning that weddings have become more extravagant.

• By stating that spending habits have remained unchanged.

• By explaining that people are reevaluating their priorities and spending less.

What is a key strategy to achieve a score of 7 or higher in the speaking exam?

• Memorizing answers.

• Using complex vocabulary.

• Being honest and authentic.

• Speaking quickly.