Prompt
Do you prefer reading books or watching films?
Band 9 sample transcript
Band 9 sample transcript
Overall, I’d say I prefer reading books, although I do enjoy films when I’m in the mood for something effortless.
With books, I can go at my own pace and really sink into the details—like a character’s thoughts or the background to a place—which films often have to cut for time. I also like that reading feels more active: I’m imagining the scenes myself, and I can pause, re-read a page, or highlight a quote if it resonates.
That said, I watch films when I want a shared experience. It’s great to sit with friends, react in real time, and then talk about the ending afterwards. If a movie is visually stunning or has an amazing soundtrack, it can be more immersive than a book in a different way.
So, if I had to choose, books win for depth and concentration, but films are my go-to for relaxation and social time.
Verified word count: 153
Why this answer scores highly
explanation
The response uses a range of sentence structures (concession, comparison, conditionals) and precise topic vocabulary (go at my own pace, sink into the details, immersive). Ideas are coherent and well linked, and the tone is conversational rather than memorised—typical of a Band 9 Part 1 performance.
what this question tests
This IELTS Speaking Part 1 question tests your ability to state a clear preference, compare two options, and give 2–3 natural reasons with a brief example. It also checks fluency (extended but not over-long answers), range of vocabulary for leisure, and control of basic and complex sentences.
Natural phrases to reuse
Overall, I’d say…
to introduce a clear preference naturally
Overall, I’d say I prefer reading.
That said,…
to add a balanced contrast
That said, films are easier after a long day.
If I had to choose,…
to conclude decisively
If I had to choose, I’d pick books.
Pronunciation and fluency notes
- Linking: connect phrases smoothly in ‘That said, I watch films when I want…’
- Chunking: pause after discourse markers (‘Overall…’, ‘That said…’) to sound controlled.
- Word stress: emphasise key contrasts—‘BOOKS win for DEPTH, but FILMS…’
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