IELTS Speaking · Part 1 · Arts & culture

Reading: IELTS Speaking Part 1 questions

Last updated 21 July 2026

In short

"Reading" is a familiar-topic set from IELTS Speaking Part 1. In the first four to five minutes of the test the examiner asks short, personal questions like these. This guide lists real practice questions and shows how to answer each one clearly, with phrases that keep your responses fluent and extended.

Practice questions

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?

How to answer Part 1 questions

The goal is a natural, extended answer — never one word, never a speech.

Part 1 lasts 4–5 minutes and covers familiar topics about you and your life.
Answer in 2–3 sentences: respond directly, then add a reason, detail, or example.
Don't give one-word answers, but don't over-talk — the examiner has a set of questions to get through.
Speak naturally about your real life; there are no 'right' answers, only clearer and less clear ones.

Useful phrases to extend your answers

Reach for these to add a reason, an example or a personal angle and keep talking naturally.

“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

Explore more IELTS Speaking practice

Frequently asked questions

How should I answer "Reading" questions in IELTS Speaking Part 1?

Give a direct answer, then extend it with a reason, detail or example — usually two to three sentences. Avoid one-word replies, but keep it conversational rather than over-rehearsed.

How many questions will the examiner ask on this topic?

Part 1 covers two or three familiar topics across four to five minutes, with a few questions each. You won't be asked every question in a bank like this — treat them as focused practice.

Do I have to tell the truth in Part 1?

It helps, because talking about your real life is easier and sounds more natural, but you're scored on your English, not your honesty.

Next step

Rehearse Part 1 with an AI examiner

Practise these questions out loud with SpeakMetry's AI examiner and get instant feedback on your fluency, vocabulary, grammar and pronunciation.

Start a free mock exam