Speaking Sample Test
Part 1: Introduction & Interview
Q1
Do you often go to stores or markets to buy things?
Sample response
Yes, quite often, especially for everyday things like groceries or household items. I still go to local markets because the produce is fresher, and I like being able to see what I’m buying with my own eyes.
Q2
What kinds of places do you usually prefer when you want to buy something?
Sample response
I usually prefer small shopping malls or well-organized stores where everything is easy to find. For food, though, I’d choose a traditional market because it feels more lively and the prices are often better.
Q3
Do you like looking around before choosing something, or do you decide quickly?
Sample response
To be honest, I normally like to look around first rather than make a quick decision. I tend to compare prices, quality, and sometimes even colors before I finally pick something, especially if it’s clothes or electronics.
Q4
Have your habits for buying things changed in recent years?
Sample response
Yes, definitely. In the past, I used to buy things more casually, but now I’m much more careful and I think twice before spending money. I’ve also become more used to checking reviews online before I buy anything.
Q5
Do you prefer buying things online or in person? Why?
Sample response
I’d say I prefer buying things online for convenience, because it saves time and gives me more choices. But for certain things, like shoes or clothes, I still prefer going in person since I want to try them on first.
Q6
Are there any times of year when you usually buy more than normal?
Sample response
Yes, usually around major festivals or at the end of the year. That’s when there are lots of discounts, and I also tend to buy gifts for family and friends, so naturally my spending goes up.
Q7
Do you usually make a list before you go out to buy things?
Sample response
For groceries, yes, I usually make a list because otherwise I forget things or buy unnecessary items. For casual shopping, though, I don’t always plan that much and I sometimes just browse.
Q8
Who do you usually go with when you want to buy clothes or other items?
Sample response
It depends on what I’m buying, but I often go with a close friend or a family member. If I’m shopping for clothes, I like having someone with me because they can give an honest opinion.
Q9
Do you enjoy looking for lower prices, or is that not important to you?
Sample response
Yes, I do enjoy finding lower prices, but I’m not someone who will spend hours hunting for the absolute cheapest option. I mainly look for good value, so if something is a bit more expensive but clearly better quality, I’m happy to pay for it.
Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)
Describe a time when you bought something special. You should say: - What you bought - Where and when you bought it - Why you chose it And explain how you felt after buying it.
Sample response
I’d like to talk about a laptop I bought for myself last year, which felt really special because it was the first expensive item I had paid for entirely with my own money. I bought it from a large electronics store in the city center during a back-to-school sales period, even though I wasn’t actually a student anymore. I had been thinking about replacing my old laptop for months because it had become painfully slow, and the battery barely lasted an hour. So, to begin with, I did quite a bit of research online, compared different models, and read lots of customer reviews before making up my mind. What stood out to me was that this particular laptop was light, fast, and had a very clear screen, which was perfect for both work and entertainment. Another thing is, it was discounted at the time, so it felt like the right moment to buy it. I chose it mainly because I needed something reliable for writing, attending online meetings, and occasionally watching films or editing photos. After buying it, I felt a mixture of excitement and relief. I was excited because it looked sleek and worked so smoothly, but I also felt proud of myself because it represented a small achievement. Overall, it wasn’t just a useful purchase; it also gave me a sense of independence and confidence, which is why I still remember it so clearly.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Q1
Why do people today seem to buy more things than in the past?
Sample response
I think people buy more nowadays mainly because products are far more accessible than they used to be. With online shopping, fast delivery, and constant promotions, it’s incredibly easy to make impulse purchases. On top of that, social media creates pressure to keep up with trends, whether that means clothes, gadgets, or even home decor. In the past, people often bought things only when they truly needed them, but now shopping is sometimes treated as entertainment.
Q2
How do advertisements influence the choices people make when buying products?
Sample response
Advertisements have a huge impact because they don’t just show a product; they create a lifestyle around it. Very often, people are persuaded by attractive packaging, celebrity endorsements, or emotional messages rather than the actual usefulness of the item. For example, someone might choose a more expensive skincare brand simply because it looks luxurious in adverts and seems more trustworthy. So, in many cases, advertising shapes people’s perceptions before they even compare the real features.
Q3
What are the advantages and disadvantages of buying things online compared with visiting physical stores?
Sample response
Buying online has some clear advantages, such as convenience, wider choice, and the ability to compare prices within minutes. It’s especially useful for busy people who don’t have time to visit several shops. However, the downside is that you can’t physically check the item, so there’s always a risk that the quality, size, or color won’t match expectations. Physical stores, by contrast, let people try things out immediately, but they can be tiring and time-consuming to visit.
Q4
How important is customer service in influencing whether people return to the same place?
Sample response
In my opinion, customer service is extremely important because it affects how respected and comfortable people feel. Even if a product is good, rude or unhelpful staff can easily discourage customers from coming back. On the other hand, if employees are polite, patient, and efficient, people are much more likely to return and even recommend the place to others. For instance, many people stay loyal to a particular shop not because it’s the cheapest, but because they know any problem will be handled properly.
Q5
Do you think people's buying habits are affected by environmental concerns? Why or why not?
Sample response
Yes, I do think environmental concerns are starting to influence buying habits, although not equally for everyone. Some people now prefer reusable, recyclable, or second-hand products because they want to reduce waste and make more responsible choices. That said, price and convenience still matter more for a lot of consumers, so their environmental values don’t always affect what they actually buy. For example, someone may care about sustainability but still choose heavily packaged goods if they are cheaper or easier to get.