IELTS Speaking Practice Question Set: Consumerism

Welcome to this IELTS Speaking practice question set focused on consumerism.

This set simulates all three parts of the IELTS Speaking test.

Part 1 lasts 4-5 minutes, Part 2 takes 3-4 minutes, and Part 3 runs for 4-5 minutes. Let’s begin!

Part 1: Introduction and Interview (4-5 minutes)

In this section, the examiner will ask you general questions about yourself and familiar topics related to consumerism.

The examiner may ask follow-up questions based on your responses.

1. Do you enjoy shopping? Why or why not?
2. What was the last major purchase you made?
3. How often do you buy things online?
4. Do you prefer to shop alone or with others?
5. Are there any products you’re particularly loyal to?
6. How do you decide whether to buy something or not?
7. Do you think people in your country buy too many things?
8. Have your shopping habits changed in recent years?

Part 2: Individual Long Turn (3-4 minutes)

In this part, you’ll be given a topic card.

You’ll have 1 minute to prepare your response, then you should speak for 1-2 minutes on the topic.

Describe a time when you bought something you really wanted.

You should say:

• What the item was
• Why you wanted it
• How you saved money to buy it
• How you felt after purchasing it

You have one minute to prepare.

You can make notes if you wish.

Part 3: Two-way Discussion (4-5 minutes)

Now we’ll discuss some more abstract questions related to consumerism and shopping habits.

1. How do you think advertising influences people’s buying habits?
2. In what ways has technology changed how people shop?
3. Do you think consumerism has a positive or negative impact on society? Why?
4. How might excessive consumption affect the environment?
5. What role do you think social media plays in promoting consumerism?
6. How can people balance their desire for new things with the need to save money?
7. Do you think future generations will have different attitudes towards consumption? Why or why not?

Sample Answer Outlines

Part 1

“Yes, I do enjoy shopping, especially for books and electronics. I find it exciting to explore new products and stay updated with the latest technology. However, I try to be mindful of my spending and only buy things I really need or will use frequently.”

Part 2

Introduction: Identify the item (e.g., a high-end camera)

Point 1: You should explain why you wanted it (passion for photography, better quality photos)

Point 2: You can describe how you saved (part-time job, cutting expenses)

Point 3: You should express feelings after purchase (excitement, satisfaction, slight guilt) Conclusion: Reflect on the experience and its impact on your hobby/life

Part 3

“Advertising plays a significant role in shaping consumer behavior. It creates desires and needs that people might not have otherwise had. For instance, through targeted ads and persuasive messaging, companies can make their products seem essential or associate them with positive emotions. This can lead to impulse purchases or brand loyalty. However, as consumers become more aware of these tactics, many are developing a more critical approach to advertising, seeking out independent reviews and information before making purchases.”

IELTS Speaking Evaluation Criteria

• Fluency and Coherence
• Lexical Resource
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy
• Pronunciation

We encourage you to practice all three parts, ideally with a study partner.

Sample high-scoring responses will be provided in a reply to this post.

Comment your responses in the comment box below!

Feel free to try other speaking practice tests: Technology and Sociology Topic