Cambridge IELTS 5 Speaking Test 2

Part 1 (Introduction & Interview)
The examiner asks you about yourself, your home, work or studies, and other familiar topics.

Colour

 

1.     What’s your favourite colour? Why?My favourite colour is blue because it has this calming effect on me. It reminds me of the sea and the sky, which I find incredibly peaceful and refreshing. Plus, blue is such a versatile colour – it looks good on practically anything, from clothes to interior design.

 

2.     Do you like the same colours now as you did when you were younger? Why/Why not?Not really! When I was younger, I was all about bright colours like red and yellow – I think I liked how lively and bold they looked. But as I’ve gotten older, I’ve shifted more towards cooler, softer shades like blue and green. They feel more soothing and match my personality better now, I think.

 

3.     What can you learn about a person from the colours they like?Colours can reveal quite a bit about a person’s personality. For example, people who love bright, bold colours might be more outgoing and energetic, while those who prefer softer, neutral tones could be more calm and reserved. It’s not a strict rule, but it does give a bit of insight into someone’s character.

 

4.     Do any colours have a special meaning in your culture?Yes, definitely. In my culture, certain colours carry strong symbolism. For instance, white is often associated with peace and purity, while red represents celebration and joy. You’ll see a lot of red at weddings and festivals, as it’s believed to bring good fortune and happiness.

Part 2 (Long Turn / Cue Card)

Describe a Song or a Piece of Music You Like

 

One song I absolutely love is “Imagine” by John Lennon. It’s a classic, and it falls under the genre of soft rock or pop, but it has this universal appeal that makes it timeless. I first heard it when I was a teenager, and it immediately struck a chord with me because of its powerful, optimistic message.

 

The song talks about a world without borders, religions, or divisions – just people living peacefully together. It’s a simple melody but incredibly moving, and I think that’s what makes it so powerful. The lyrics are hopeful and almost poetic, and they resonate with anyone who dreams of a better, more harmonious world.

 

What I really love about “Imagine” is that it encourages you to think differently, to imagine something better, which is something I try to carry with me in life. The song is like a reminder to hold onto hope, even when things seem bleak.

Part 3 (Discussion)
The examiner asks you about yourself, your home, work or studies, and other familiar topics.

Music and Young People

 

1.     What kinds of music are popular with young people in your culture?In my culture, young people are really into a mix of genres – pop, hip-hop, and electronic music are all quite popular. There’s also been a resurgence in interest in traditional music lately, often with a modern twist, which I think is fantastic because it keeps our heritage alive while appealing to a younger audience.

 

2.     What do you think influences a young person’s taste in music?A young person’s music taste is usually influenced by a combination of factors – friends, social media, and even family. Nowadays, platforms like YouTube and Spotify also play a big role because they constantly recommend new music, which means young people are exposed to a wide range of genres.

 

3.     How has technology affected the kinds of music popular with young people?Technology has had a massive impact. With streaming services, young people can access music from all over the world instantly, which has really broadened their tastes. Genres like K-pop, for example, have gained huge popularity because they’re just a click away. Social media platforms also help songs go viral quickly, which shapes what’s trendy.

 

Music and Society

 

1.     Tell me about any traditional music in your culture.Traditional music in my culture is usually instrumental, featuring instruments like the sitar, tabla, and flute. It has a very melodic, soothing quality, often inspired by nature or spirituality. You’ll often hear it during cultural ceremonies or festivals, and it’s a big part of our heritage.

 

2.     How important is it for a culture to have musical traditions?I think musical traditions are incredibly important because they connect people to their roots and help preserve cultural identity. Traditional music carries stories and values from the past, which can be really inspiring for future generations. It’s like a cultural bridge that links the past with the present.

 

3.     Why do you think countries have national anthems or songs?National anthems or songs foster a sense of unity and pride. They’re like a reminder of a country’s history and values, which people can collectively relate to, especially during national events or sports games. They also represent a country’s identity to the rest of the world, which is why they hold such importance.