IELTS Speaking activity · Topic 01
Markets and shopping
Part 1 short answers about you
Answer in 2–3 sentences: give your answer, a reason and a small example. Tap a timer, then speak out loud.
- Do you enjoy shopping? Why or why not?
- Where do you usually buy your food?
- Are there any markets near where you live?
- Do you prefer shopping alone or with other people?
Part 2 the long turn
In the real test you get 1 minute to prepare and then speak for up to 2 minutes. Press the button and the timer does both.
Describe a time you bought something from a small, local seller.
You should say:
- what you bought
- where the seller was
- how you found out about them
and explain how you felt about buying from them.
Record your answer and listen back. The recording stays on your device and isn't sent anywhere.
Part 3 discussion
These questions are about people and society, not just you. Give your opinion, explain why, and mention another point of view.
- Why do some people prefer markets to supermarkets?
- How has online shopping changed the way people buy food?
- Should towns do more to protect small local shops? Why?
Useful language
Try to use two or three of these in your answers.
a stalla small table or stand where things are sold
fresh, local producefruit and vegetables grown nearby
to haggleto argue politely about a price
a bargainsomething cheaper than usual
a lively atmospherebusy, happy and full of energy
to support local businessesto spend your money with small, nearby sellers