IELTS Speaking · Part 3
Nature and wildlife: IELTS Speaking Part 3 questions
Last updated 2 September 2026
In short
Nature and wildlife is a common IELTS Speaking Part 3 discussion theme. After the Part 2 long turn, the examiner explores broader, abstract questions on the topic. This guide groups real practice questions from concrete to abstract, explains how to tackle each question type, and gives the vocabulary and linking language to answer with depth.
Discussion questions
The examiner usually opens the discussion with: "How much contact do people in your country have with nature?", then works up from concrete to abstract.
Warm-up (concrete)
Why do you think spending time in nature is good for people?
Cause & effect
Development (societal)
How has people's relationship with the natural world changed over time?
ComparisonDo you think enough is being done to protect wild animals?
OpinionShould zoos exist, in your opinion?
Opinion
Depth (abstract & hypothetical)
What are the consequences when a species disappears?
EvaluationHow might people's access to nature change as cities grow?
SpeculationIf children grew up with no access to green spaces, how would it affect them?
HypothesisIs it possible to balance human development with protecting nature?
Evaluation
Useful vocabulary for this theme
Band 7+ language for discussing nature and wildlife.
- endangered species
- animals or plants at serious risk of dying out
- “Many endangered species are protected in that nature reserve.”
- the natural world
- nature and all living things
- “I feel completely calm whenever I'm out in the natural world.”
- a breath of fresh air
- a refreshing, welcome change or experience
- “A weekend in the countryside is always a breath of fresh air for me.”
- wildlife habitat
- the natural home of wild animals
- “Building new roads destroys a lot of wildlife habitat.”
- get back to nature
- reconnect with the natural environment
- “Camping is my favourite way to get back to nature.”