Excelling in Part 3: The Discussion
Handling Abstract Questions with Confidence
The Final Challenge
Welcome to the final lesson, focusing on Part 3 of the Speaking test. This section is a 4-5 minute two-way discussion with the examiner, where the questions are thematically linked to your Part 2 topic but are much more abstract and general.
The examiner is pushing you to produce your best, most complex language. They want to hear your opinions, your ability to justify them, and your capacity to discuss broader societal issues. This is your chance to secure a top band score.
What the Examiner is Listening For
Abstract Thinking
Can you move beyond personal stories and discuss ideas, trends, and concepts?
Justification
Can you support your opinions with logical reasons and relevant examples?
Complex Language
Can you use a wide range of vocabulary and grammatical structures accurately?
Interaction
Can you engage in a natural discussion, responding directly to the questions asked?
A Structure for Success: The P.E.E.L. Method
Just like in writing, a clear structure helps you deliver a coherent and well-developed spoken answer. The P.E.E.L. method is perfect for Part 3.
High-Level Language Toolkit
Giving Opinions
- In my view...
- As I see it...
- I'm inclined to believe that...
Comparing & Contrasting
- On the one hand... on the other hand...
- A key distinction is...
- Similarly / In contrast...
Speculating / Future
- It's likely that in the future...
- I foresee a situation where...
- This could potentially lead to...
Generalizing
- By and large...
- On the whole...
- It's generally the case that...
Watch a Band 9 Part 3 Discussion
Watch an official IELTS video where a candidate demonstrates excellent Part 3 skills, handling abstract questions and expanding on ideas effectively.
This video is from the IELTS by IDP YouTube channel. We thank them for allowing their valuable content to be shared.
Video Summary:
In this video, an examiner asks Part 3 questions related to the topic of 'gifts'. The candidate demonstrates a strong ability to discuss abstract concepts like the cultural importance of gifts, how gift-giving habits have changed over time, and the commercialization of holidays. They use a wide range of vocabulary, complex grammatical structures, and maintain fluency and coherence throughout the discussion, providing well-developed answers that go beyond simple yes/no responses.
Video Comprehension Quiz
Based on the discussion in the video, answer the following questions.
Band 9 Sample & Analysis
Topic: The Internet and Information
Examiner: Some people say that the internet has made people more isolated. To what extent do you agree?
Candidate: That's a fascinating point. (P) On the whole, I'm inclined to disagree with that statement, although I can see why some people might feel that way. (E) I believe that while the nature of communication has changed, the internet has actually fostered new kinds of communities and connections that weren't possible before. People can connect with others who share niche interests from all over the world. (E) For example, a fan of a specific genre of classic film might find an online forum with thousands of members, whereas they might not know a single person in their local town who shares that passion.
Examiner: How has the way people access information changed in recent years?
Candidate: (P) The change has been absolutely monumental, moving from a model of scarcity to one of overwhelming abundance. (E) In the past, knowledge was primarily accessed through physical media like books or encyclopedias, which were curated by experts. Now, information is instantaneous and democratized. (E) A prime example is how we consume news; instead of waiting for the evening broadcast, people get real-time updates on their smartphones from countless sources, citizen journalists included. The challenge has shifted from finding information to verifying its credibility.
Why This is a Band 9 Answer
Fluency & Coherence
The candidate uses discourse markers effectively ("That's a fascinating point," "On the whole"). The answers are well-structured using the P.E.E.L. method, making them logical and easy to follow.
Lexical Resource (Vocabulary)
Precise, high-level vocabulary is used: "isolated," "fostered new kinds," "niche interests," "monumental," "overwhelming abundance," "democratized," "verifying its credibility."
Grammatical Range & Accuracy
There is a confident use of complex sentences and clauses. For example, "whereas they might not know a single person..." and "The challenge has shifted from finding information to verifying...". The grammar is error-free.
Practice Your Discussion Skills
Read the question, take a moment to think, and then click to reveal a Band 9 sample answer structure. Try to answer it yourself first!