IELTS Speaking Part 1: Collecting things
6 common Part 1 questions on collecting things, each with a sample answer at the length Part 1 actually wants.
Do you collect things?
Not really these days, though I used to collect stamps when I was a kid. I found it fascinating to see designs from different countries and time periods. I've since lost interest, but I still have the old albums somewhere at my parents' house.
What items are considered collectibles in your country?
Stamps and coins are pretty classic choices, especially among older collectors. More recently, things like trading cards, vinyl records, and even sneakers have become popular, particularly with younger people. It really depends on the generation and their personal interests.
Is collecting a popular pastime in your country?
I'd say it's fairly popular, though it tends to be more of a niche hobby than a mainstream one. There are dedicated clubs and markets for collectors to trade or show off their items. It seems to attract a certain type of person who really enjoys the hunt for rare pieces.
Do a lot of people in your country collect things?
Quite a few, actually, though it varies a lot depending on age and interest. Some people are very serious about it and spend a lot of money on rare items, while others just casually pick things up over the years. Either way, it's a fairly common hobby.
Why do people like collecting?
I think it comes down to a mix of nostalgia and the thrill of finding something rare. For some, it's also about the sense of achievement in completing a set. It can be a relaxing hobby too, since it gives you something to focus on outside of work or studies.
What are the benefits of collecting?
It can be quite educational, since you often end up learning a lot about the history or background of whatever you're collecting. It's also a good way to relax and unwind, and some collections can even become valuable investments over time. On top of that, it's a nice way to connect with other collectors who share the same interest.
Reading a model answer is not the same as saying one. The sample above shows what a strong Part 1 answer sounds like. What it cannot tell you is how yours sounds — whether you hesitate, repeat the question back, or run out of things to say at forty seconds.
You can record an answer to this exact question and get it marked on fluency and coherence, lexical resource, grammatical range and pronunciation — the same four criteria the examiner uses.
Common questions
How long should Part 1 answers be?
Two or three sentences. Part 1 is a warm-up and one-word answers stall the conversation, but a ninety-second speech on your home town is the wrong length too — the examiner has a list of questions to get through.
How long does Part 1 last?
Four to five minutes, covering three familiar topics. Your identity is checked first, then the questions start.
Can I ask the examiner to repeat a question?
Yes, and it costs you nothing. Asking for a repeat is normal conversational English; guessing at a question you misheard and answering the wrong one is far more damaging.
Model answers written and reviewed by The English All-in-One IELTS team. They are teaching models showing what each band looks like, not real candidate scripts.