Speaking Sample Test
Part 1: Introduction & Interview
Q1
Do you enjoy spending time with other people?
Sample response
Yes, definitely. I’m quite a social person, so being around other people usually gives me energy rather than draining me. I especially enjoy spending time with people I feel comfortable with, because the conversation flows naturally and I can just relax.
Q2
Who do you usually spend your free time with?
Sample response
Most of the time, I’m with a small group of close friends and sometimes my cousins as well. We’ve known each other for years, so there’s no pressure to impress anyone, which makes it really easy to have a good time together.
Q3
How often do you meet the people you are close to?
Sample response
I try to see my closest friends at least once a week, usually at the weekend. If we’re too busy to meet, we still stay in touch through messages or short calls, so we don’t really lose contact.
Q4
What kinds of activities do you like doing together?
Sample response
Nothing too fancy, to be honest. We usually go out for coffee, watch films, try new restaurants, or just walk around and talk about life. I think simple activities are often the best because they give you more time to connect.
Q5
Did you have a close companion when you were a child?
Sample response
Yes, I did. I had one best friend in primary school, and we were almost inseparable. We used to ride our bikes, play games after school, and even do homework together sometimes.
Q6
Is it easy for you to get to know new people?
Sample response
I’d say it’s fairly easy once I’m in the right environment. I’m not the kind of person who starts chatting to strangers immediately, but if we share a class, a project, or some common interest, I can open up quite quickly.
Q7
Do you prefer having a small social circle or a large one?
Sample response
I prefer a small social circle. For me, having a few genuine, reliable people is much more valuable than knowing lots of people on a surface level. It feels more meaningful because the relationships are deeper.
Q8
Have the people you spend time with changed over the years?
Sample response
Yes, quite a lot, actually. When I was younger, I mostly spent time with school friends, but now my circle is smaller and more selective. I think as people grow up, they naturally choose quality over quantity.
Q9
Do you usually stay in touch online or meet in person?
Sample response
Ideally, I prefer meeting in person because it feels more genuine and personal. That said, online communication is really convenient for day-to-day contact, especially when everyone has a busy schedule, so I use both depending on the situation.
Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)
Describe a person you enjoy spending time with. You should say: - How you met this person - What you usually do together - What kind of personality this person has And explain why this person is important to you.
Sample response
I’d like to talk about one of my closest friends, Daniel, who is someone I genuinely enjoy spending time with. We first met at university during our first year. We were put in the same group for a presentation, and at the beginning we were just classmates, but over time we realised we had a lot in common, especially our sense of humour and our interest in films and travelling. Usually, when we meet, we do fairly simple things. We often go for coffee, have dinner somewhere inexpensive, or just take a long walk while talking about work, family, and future plans. Sometimes we watch films together or help each other with practical things, like preparing for interviews or making important decisions. What stood out to me quite early was that spending time with him never feels forced. Even if we’re doing nothing special, it’s still enjoyable. In terms of personality, he’s thoughtful, calm, and very reliable. He’s also the kind of person who listens carefully instead of waiting for his turn to speak, and that quality is actually quite rare. At the same time, he has a really dry sense of humour, so conversations with him are never dull. This person is important to me because he’s been there during some difficult periods in my life. He gives honest advice, but in a kind way, and I know I can trust him completely. Overall, he’s not just someone I have fun with; he’s someone who makes my life feel more balanced and supported.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Q1
Why do some people find it easy to build close relationships, while others do not?
Sample response
I think it mainly comes down to personality, past experiences, and communication skills. Some people are naturally open and emotionally expressive, so they find it easier to trust others and form close bonds. In contrast, people who are shy or who have been disappointed in relationships may be more cautious. For example, an outgoing person might make friends quickly at work, while someone more reserved could take months to feel comfortable.
Q2
How have modern forms of communication changed the way people maintain close personal bonds?
Sample response
Modern communication has made it much easier to stay connected, especially when people live far apart. Messaging apps, video calls, and social media allow friends and relatives to share daily updates almost instantly, which helps relationships feel active rather than distant. However, I’d say there’s also a downside, because online contact can sometimes become shallow or routine. For instance, reacting to someone’s story isn’t the same as having a meaningful face-to-face conversation.
Q3
Do you think people need a few close companions more than a wide social network? Why?
Sample response
Personally, I think a few close companions are more important than having a huge social network. A wide network can be useful for opportunities and casual interaction, but in difficult times, people usually need emotional support from those who truly understand them. Close friends provide trust, honesty, and a sense of security that acquaintances normally can’t offer. So, ideally, people can have both, but if I had to choose, I’d prioritise depth over numbers.
Q4
What qualities are most important in a long-lasting personal relationship?
Sample response
In my opinion, trust is probably the most essential quality, because without it, the relationship becomes unstable. On top of that, mutual respect, patience, and good communication are also crucial, especially when disagreements happen. Long-lasting relationships are not built on excitement alone; they depend on how people handle problems and support each other over time. For example, two friends can stay close for years if they are honest, forgiving, and willing to make an effort.
Q5
How can strong personal connections affect a person's mental health and overall well-being?
Sample response
Strong personal connections can have a huge positive effect on mental health. When people feel understood and supported, they’re usually less likely to feel isolated, anxious, or overwhelmed by problems. Close relationships also give people confidence, because they know they have someone to turn to in difficult moments. For example, a person dealing with stress at work may cope much better if they have trusted friends or family members to talk to regularly.