IELTS Speaking Practice Question Set on History

This practice set covers all three parts of the IELTS Speaking test, focusing on the topic of history.

Part 1 lasts 4-5 minutes, Part 2 takes 3-4 minutes, and Part 3 runs for 4-5 minutes.

Part 1 (4-5 minutes)

1. Do you enjoy learning about history?
2. What was your favorite history subject in school?
3. Have you ever visited any historical sites?
4. Do you think it’s important to preserve old buildings?
5. How do you usually learn about historical events?
6. Is there a historical figure you admire? Why?
7. Do you think history education in schools is adequate?
8. How has technology changed the way we learn about history?

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

Part 2 (3-4 minutes)

You will have 1 minute to prepare and 1-2 minutes to speak about the following topic:

Describe a historical event that you find interesting.

You should say:

• What the event is
• When and where it happened
• Why you find it interesting
• How you learned about this event

Part 3 (4-5 minutes)

1. How do you think studying history benefits society?
2. In what ways can historical knowledge influence current decision-making?
3. Do you think certain historical events are given too much attention? Why or why not?
4. How has globalization affected our understanding of history?
5. What role should governments play in preserving historical sites and artifacts?
6. How might advances in technology change the way we study history in the future?
7. Do you think it’s possible to learn from historical mistakes? Why or why not?

Sample Answers:

Part 1

Q: Do you enjoy learning about history?

A: Yes, I find history fascinating. I particularly enjoy learning about how past events have shaped our modern world. It gives me a better understanding of current affairs and helps me appreciate the progress we’ve made as a society.

Part 2

I’d like to talk about the Apollo 11 moon landing, which took place on July 20, 1969. This event marked the first time humans set foot on another celestial body. I find it interesting because it represents a pinnacle of human achievement and scientific progress. The sheer scale of the endeavor, from the technological challenges to the bravery of the astronauts, is awe-inspiring. I learned about this event through documentaries and books, and it continues to captivate me as an example of what humanity can accomplish when we set ambitious goals.

Part 3

Q: How do you think studying history benefits society?

A: Studying history provides numerous benefits to society. Firstly, it helps us understand the root causes of current issues, allowing us to address them more effectively. Additionally, history teaches us valuable lessons about human nature, societal patterns, and the consequences of various actions. This knowledge can inform better decision-making in areas such as politics, economics, and social policy. Furthermore, studying history fosters cultural awareness and empathy, as we learn about different civilizations and their contributions to human progress. Ultimately, a society with a strong grasp of history is better equipped to navigate present challenges and shape a positive future.

Evaluation Criteria

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

We encourage you to practice all three parts of this speaking test, ideally with a study partner.

Feel free to share your responses in the comments below, and we’ll provide brief evaluations in reply.

For more speaking practices, you can also visit Workplace Culture topic.