In this essential practice lesson, you will actively apply everything you learned in Lessons 1 and 2 by answering realistic IELTS Speaking Part 3 questions, participating in interactive speaking scenarios, and developing the confidence and flexibility needed to succeed at Band 6–7. You will learn not only to use advanced education vocabulary naturally but also to demonstrate analytical thinking, balanced arguments, and sophisticated language structures in real exam contexts.
Respond fluently and confidently to challenging education questions.
Integrate advanced vocabulary and precise expressions into your speech.
Express clear, well-supported opinions and make insightful comparisons.
Self-assess your speaking and identify key areas for improvement.
Move beyond memorized answers to truly dynamic and flexible English.
Below you will find authentic IELTS Speaking Part 3 questions, detailed sample answers, and practical guidance to help you produce your own high-scoring responses. Each answer highlights the use of target vocabulary, opinion and comparison phrases, and advanced linking structures introduced in previous lessons.
Model Answer and Explanation:
“Education in my country has undergone significant changes over the past decade. To begin with, there has been a notable shift from traditional, exam-focused teaching methods to a more holistic approach. Nowadays, schools are placing greater emphasis on project-based learning, extracurricular activities, and the development of social skills. Moreover, technology has become an integral part of the curriculum, with digital resources and online assessments becoming commonplace. Compared to the past, when the syllabus was quite rigid and standardized, today’s curricula are more flexible, allowing teachers to adapt lessons to the needs of their students. On the one hand, these changes have made learning more engaging and relevant; on the other hand, some people feel that the core academic standards may have declined as a result.”
Why is this answer effective?
Uses advanced vocabulary: holistic approach, project-based learning, curriculum, syllabus, standardized, extracurricular activities.
Demonstrates complex structures: “Compared to the past…”, “On the one hand… on the other hand…”
Presents a balanced view.
Model Answer and Explanation:
“I firmly believe that basic education should be free for everyone, as it is a fundamental human right. Free education ensures an equitable system where students from all backgrounds have the opportunity to learn and succeed. However, when it comes to higher education, there is an ongoing debate. On the one hand, making university education free could lead to greater social mobility and a more skilled workforce. On the other hand, it might put a heavy burden on government finances and potentially lower the quality of education due to overcrowding. In my view, a balanced approach would be to provide free or subsidized higher education for those who cannot afford it, while still encouraging students to contribute to the cost if they are able.”
Why is this answer effective?
Opinion phrases: I firmly believe, in my view.
Advanced words: equitable, social mobility, subsidized.
Balanced argument (merits and drawbacks).
Model Answer and Explanation:
“Standardized testing has both merits and drawbacks. On the positive side, it provides a uniform way to assess students’ academic achievement across different regions and ensures a degree of fairness in admissions and scholarships. Furthermore, standardized tests can motivate students to focus on their studies. However, these assessments often emphasize rote memorization rather than critical thinking or creativity. Compared to more flexible assessment methods, such as coursework and group projects, standardized tests can be overly rigid and stressful for students. Ultimately, while standardized testing is useful for measuring certain skills, it should not be the sole method of assessment.”
Why is this answer effective?
Uses key vocabulary: merits, drawbacks, academic achievement, rote memorization, coursework.
Linking and comparison structures: On the positive side, however, compared to, ultimately.
A clear evaluation of both sides.
Model Answer and Explanation:
“Lifelong learning is absolutely essential for adults in the modern world. With technology and industries evolving rapidly, adults must continually update their skills to remain competitive in the job market. There is a common perception that education ends at university, but in reality, ongoing professional development, vocational training, and self-study are crucial for both personal and career growth. Compared to the past, when lifelong learning was not as emphasized, today’s employers often expect their staff to engage in continuous learning. In my opinion, promoting a culture of lifelong learning benefits not just individuals, but society as a whole.”
Why is this answer effective?
Advanced vocabulary: lifelong learning, professional development, vocational training, culture of lifelong learning.
Opinion and comparison phrases: There is a common perception that, compared to the past, in my opinion.
Strong support for the answer.
Now it’s your turn. Use the instructions below to maximize your learning and fluency.
Instructions:
With a partner or recording device, discuss:
What are the main differences between the education systems in two countries you know (e.g., your country vs. another country)?
Which system do you think is more effective, and why?
Use phrases: “Compared to…”, “On the one hand… on the other hand…”, “A key difference is…”
Sample Framework:
“Compared to the education system in [Country A], where the curriculum is highly standardized and exams are compulsory, [Country B] offers a more flexible syllabus and emphasizes extracurricular activities. On the one hand, [Country A] produces high academic achievement; on the other hand, students in [Country B] may develop better social skills. A key difference is the focus on holistic education in [Country B], which I believe prepares students better for life.”
Instructions:
Prepare and deliver a short answer to this question. Use opinion phrases, balanced arguments, and at least three target vocabulary items.
Sample Framework:
“I tend to agree with those who believe that schools should focus more on creativity. While academic achievement is important for gaining qualifications and university entrance, creativity helps students develop problem-solving and critical thinking skills, which are essential in the modern workforce. In my opinion, a balanced curriculum that encourages both academic and creative development produces well-rounded individuals.”
Scenario:
One student acts as a government official explaining new education reforms.
The other plays a concerned parent.
Sample Dialogue Opening:
Official: “The new curriculum introduces more project-based learning and a wider range of extracurricular activities to promote holistic education. Our goal is to improve not just academic results, but also students’ personal growth.”
Parent: “I appreciate the changes, but I worry that reducing standardized testing might lower academic achievement. How will you ensure the system remains equitable and fair for all students?”
Tips:
Use at least three advanced words from Lessons 1 and 2.
Address both benefits and concerns.
To achieve Band 6–7, it is crucial to review and improve your answers. Follow this step-by-step self-assessment guide:
Use your phone or computer to record yourself responding to each practice question.
Play it back and listen for:
Use of target vocabulary (curriculum, syllabus, assessment, holistic education, standardized, etc.)
Logical structure (introduction, support, example, conclusion)
Variety of opinion and comparison phrases
Did you express both sides of the argument when relevant?
Did you use linking phrases and advanced vocabulary naturally?
Did you include examples or comparisons?
Is your pronunciation clear and confident?
Do you need more synonyms or complex sentence structures?
Are you speaking too quickly or too slowly?
Are your ideas well-developed and explained?
Aim to use at least three new vocabulary words in every answer.
Challenge yourself to use different opinion phrases in each practice session.
Try to make at least one comparison in your response to every question.
Record new answers after feedback.
Notice improvements in fluency, range, and accuracy.
| Criterion | Yes/No | Example from My Answer | How to Improve |
|---|---|---|---|
| Used advanced education vocabulary | Learn more collocations | ||
| Gave balanced, well-supported view | Add examples or data | ||
| Made clear comparisons | Practice using “Compared to…” | ||
| Used a range of linking phrases | Study more complex connectors | ||
| Pronunciation and fluency | Slow down, articulate carefully |
Join a speaking club or online group to discuss education topics.
Listen to sample IELTS Speaking Part 3 answers online.
Create a list of synonyms for “advantage,” “disadvantage,” “important,” and other common words.
Practice paraphrasing: say the same idea in two or three different ways.
Challenge yourself to add more depth to your answers with real-world examples, news, or personal experiences.
Now that you’ve completed the practice lesson for education, continue to apply these skills to new IELTS topics and review your progress regularly. Remember, true mastery comes from repeated, reflective practice.
Regularly return to your recordings and self-assessment notes.
As you move to other units (e.g., Technology, Society, Health), use the same strategies for vocabulary, structure, and argument development.
Seek feedback from teachers, peers, or online communities for further growth.
Aim for clarity and depth, not just length. One powerful, well-developed answer is better than two long, unclear ones.
Balance your answers. Always try to present both sides if asked for advantages/disadvantages or merits/drawbacks.
Personalize when possible. Use your real experiences to make your answers unique and believable.
Vary your language. Don’t repeat the same phrase or structure—show your range!
Practice, practice, practice. The more you speak, the more confident and natural you will become.
Congratulations!
You have now completed a full IELTS Speaking Part 3 education practice lesson. Keep refining your skills, and you will be well on your way to achieving a Band 6–7 or even higher.