Speaking Test: part 1 questions
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Note that this section will use the general strategies outlined in Chapter 2. More than one of the strategies could be used for any particular question. The purpose of this section is to show you how to actually use these strategies to answer questions.
The following types of questions are outlined below:
| Question Type | Strategy |
| Description | divide into 2 or 3 parts |
| Types of | divide into 2 or 3 parts |
| Liking | general to specific |
| Disliking | general to specific |
| Habits | depends |
| yes/no | depends |
| “Wh” questions | concession |
| when you were a child | concession |
| in the future | avoidance |
| Comparing | avoidance |
Description Questions
Strategy: divide your response into two or three parts
Structure: point 1 + point 2 + point 3
Sample Question: “Tell me something about your hometown?”
| Well, I come from Taipei and I have lived here all my life. I’d like to begin by saying that it’s the capital of Taiwan and also the cultural center. On top of that I can also add that It’s very crowded, maybe even one of most congested cities in Asia I guess. The roads are so jammed that even the locals have problems finding their way around! Finally, I’d also like to mention that it offers splendid examples of contemporary architecture. Actually some of the most renowned landmarks are in the middle of Taipei, such as Taipei 101, the second tallest building in the world. |
Useful language
Starting-off (redundant language)
ok, then; actually; alright; well, you know;
Point 1:
I’d like to begin by saying …
The first thing I’d like to mention is …
The main thing you need to know is …
Point 2:
On top of that I can also add that …
Another interesting point …
Not only that, but _______is also exceedingly …..
Point 3:
Finally, I’d also like to mention ……..
And, I shouldn’t forget to mention that…
I guess I could also say that (it’s) sort-of ……..
Practice Questions:
- What sort of work do you do?
- What does your house look like?
- What does your neighborhood look like?
- What does your city/town look like?
- What sort of clothes do you like to wear?
- Describe a city you would like to visit?
- Describe a country you would like to visit?
- Describe a park you have visited?
9 more question types are given in the full-version of my speaking book.
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