IELTS Speaking · Part 1
Arts & culture: IELTS Speaking Part 1 questions
Last updated 2 September 2026
In short
Reading
The examiner usually opens with something like: "Do you enjoy reading in your spare time?"
What kind of books or articles do you like?
When do you usually find time to read?
Did you read a lot as a child?
Do you prefer reading on paper or on a screen?
Writing and letters
The examiner usually opens with something like: "Do you write things by hand very often these days?"
Do you prefer writing by hand or typing?
When did you last write a letter or card to someone?
Do you think handwriting is still important?
Do you enjoy writing, or do you find it a chore?
Music
The examiner usually opens with something like: "What kind of music do you like to listen to?"
When do you usually listen to music?
Has your taste in music changed over the years?
Did you ever learn to play an instrument?
Do you prefer listening to music or seeing it live?
Singing
The examiner usually opens with something like: "Do you enjoy singing?"
Do you sing when you're on your own?
Did you sing much when you were a child?
Do you think anyone can learn to sing well?
Is singing popular where you live?
Art
The examiner usually opens with something like: "Are you interested in art?"
Did you do any drawing or painting at school?
Have you ever been to an art gallery or exhibition?
Do you think art is important for children to learn?
Would you like to be able to paint or draw well?
Photographs
The examiner usually opens with something like: "Do you enjoy taking photographs?"
What kinds of things do you like to photograph?
Do you prefer taking photos or being in them?
Do you keep your photos printed or on a device?
Do you look back at old photographs often?
Phrases for arts & culture answers
“I've always been drawn to ...”
Introducing an artistic interest
“There's just something about it that ...”
Explaining the appeal reflectively
“I'm more of a ... than a ... person.”
Contrasting your artistic tastes
“It really allows me to express ...”
Explaining creative self-expression