IELTS Speaking Templates: Versatile Frameworks and Sample Answers for Parts 1, 2, & 3

In IELTS Speaking, many test-takers try to rely on memorized answers.

However, this is the most dangerous strategy.

Examiners have assessed hundreds of candidates, so they can spot a memorized speech within 30 seconds. If they determine you are not speaking in your own words, your score will drop significantly.

To achieve a Band 6.5 or higher, what you need is not a memorized answer, but a thinking framework (template) to structure your logic.

This article introduces frameworks for speaking fluently without sounding memorized, along with useful phrases to support them.

Part 1: The Conversational Exchange (ARE Method)

Part 1 is not a simple question-and-answer session; it's a short conversational exchange.

Avoid ending with just "Yes" or "No." Make it a habit to respond with a three-sentence structure using the "ARE method."

The Basic Template: ARE Method

• A = Answer: Directly answer the question.
• R = Reason: Briefly state why.
• E = Example/Detail: Add frequency or a specific example.

Q: Do you like reading?

(A) Yes, absolutely. I’m a bit of a bookworm.

(R) It helps me unwind after a long day at work.

(E) I usually read for about 30 minutes before bed, mostly mystery novels.

By using this "Answer → Reason → Example/Detail" structure, you can avoid awkward silences even when faced with unexpected questions (e.g., about robots, mirrors, or T-shirts).

Part 2: Speaking for the Full 2 Minutes with the "PPF Method"

The biggest challenge in Part 2 (the long turn) is running out of things to say before the two minutes are up. The most powerful framework to solve this is the Past-Present-Future (PPF) method. By moving between past, present, and future tenses, you can prevent running out of ideas and also demonstrate a wider grammatical range, which boosts your score.

PPF Method Structure (Guideline)

1. Past: The beginning, how you encountered it, its previous state (approx. 30-40 seconds)
2. Present: Why you like it, the current situation (approx. 60 seconds)
3. Future: Future plans, future outlook (approx. 20-30 seconds)

Sample Script: Describe a person you admire

Here is a sample answer on the topic of "a person you admire (Mr. Sato)." Pay attention to the linking words (in bold).

1. Past (Encounter)

"Back in the day, when I was in high school, I first met Mr. Sato during a charity event. At that time, I was a shy teenager, and to be honest I had never imagined meeting someone so inspiring. Originally, he was just a guest speaker, but we got a chance to talk afterwards. He shared stories about how he overcame hardship to start his own business, which left a deep impression on me."

2. Present (Reason for Admiration)

"As of now, we keep in touch regularly, and I consider him my mentor. In stark contrast to my past self, who lacked confidence, nowadays I’m far more outgoing – largely thanks to his guidance. He has taught me not only business skills but also the importance of humility. For instance, whenever I face a challenge, he encourages me by sharing his own experiences. It’s no wonder I admire him so much."

3. Future (Future Outlook)

"Looking ahead to the future, I wouldn’t be surprised if I follow in his footsteps to become an entrepreneur myself. He often says that it is highly probable that our efforts today will pay off tomorrow, and I take those words to heart. Ultimately, I want to inspire others just as he has inspired me."

You can apply this framework to any topic, such as "a place you want to visit" or "an important possession."

Part 3: Phrases for Developing Advanced Discussions by Function

In Part 3, you need to move beyond simple phrases like "I think..." and develop a logical discussion.

If you're aiming for Band 7.0 or higher, master the following "functional phrases."

1. Comparison (Past vs. Present)

Use expressions that emphasize a dramatic change, rather than a simple "Unlike the past...".

• "In stark contrast to the past, ..."

  (In sharp contrast to the past, now...)

  Example: "In stark contrast to the past when most people wrote letters by hand, nowadays almost everyone communicates via email."

• "Gone are the days when ..., [and] now ..."

  (The days of ~ are over, and now...)

  Example: "Gone are the days when students relied solely on libraries; now they have the Internet at their fingertips."

2. Speculation (Guessing about the Future)

Instead of just "Maybe," make predictions using expressions that convey a degree of certainty (modality).

• "It is highly probable that ..."

  (It is very likely that...)

  Example: "It is highly probable that AI will become a ubiquitous part of our daily lives."

• "I wouldn’t be surprised if ..."

  (I wouldn't be surprised if... = It's quite possible)

  Example: "I wouldn’t be surprised if remote work becomes the standard for most industries."

3. Evaluation (Assessing Both Sides)

Instead of giving a one-sided opinion, balance the pros and cons.

• "While there are undeniable benefits to X, one must also consider Y."

  (While X has undeniable benefits, one must also consider Y.)

  Example: "While there are undeniable benefits to social media, one must also consider its downsides like privacy issues."

[Caution] A List of Cliché Phrases to Avoid

When using templates, you must avoid overused clichés.

These will immediately signal to the examiner that you have memorized your answer, leading to a lower score.

Conclusion: Templates Are Your "Training Wheels"

The PPF method and phrase collections introduced here are merely frameworks to help structure your speech.

If you memorize the content and episodes as well, your intonation will sound unnatural, which will actually lower your score.

Use the framework, but fill it with your own words. This is the key to achieving Band 6.5.

Check Your Natural Delivery with ELT

Knowing the templates is one thing, but being able to use them naturally under the pressure of the actual test is another.

At ELT, former IELTS examiners and professional native instructors who know the test inside and out will rigorously check if your speaking sounds memorized or illogical.

"I want you to check if my use of the PPF method sounds natural."

"I tried using some new phrases and would like feedback."

You can try this kind of practical training by starting with a free trial lesson.

Sign up for a Free Trial Lesson & Counseling Session