IELTS Speaking Test: Strategi, Struktur, dan Tips Sukses

Kenapa IELTS Speaking Penting?

IELTS Speaking adalah salah satu bagian paling menantang dalam ujian IELTS. Dalam waktu singkat (11–14 menit), Anda harus menunjukkan kefasihan, kosakata, tata bahasa, dan pelafalan bahasa Inggris di hadapan penguji. Bagi banyak peserta tes, ini bisa terasa menegangkan—apalagi jika tidak terbiasa berbicara langsung dengan native speaker.

Namun, kabar baiknya: tes ini dapat dipelajari dan dilatih secara sistematis. Dengan memahami kriteria penilaian, strategi menghadapi penguji, serta struktur tes Speaking IELTS, Anda bisa tampil lebih percaya diri dan meningkatkan peluang meraih skor tinggi.

Kriteria Penilaian IELTS Speaking

Dalam IELTS Speaking, ada empat kriteria utama yang dinilai. Masing-masing berkontribusi 25% terhadap skor akhir.

1. Fluency and Coherence (Kefasihan dan Koherensi)

• Definisi: Kelancaran berbicara tanpa jeda panjang atau terlalu banyak “hmm”.

• Yang dinilai:

  • Apakah Anda bisa berbicara dengan ritme natural?

  • Apakah jawaban Anda runtut dan mudah dipahami?

• Tips:

  • Gunakan kata penghubung: firstly, in addition, however, on the other hand.

  • Hindari berhenti mendadak; kalau perlu, gunakan filler alami seperti you know, actually.

2. Lexical Resource (Perbendaharaan Kata)

• Definisi: Variasi kosakata yang digunakan.

• Yang dinilai:

  • Apakah Anda menggunakan sinonim dan idiom sesuai konteks?

  • Apakah kosakata yang dipilih tepat untuk menjelaskan ide?

• Tips:

  • Kumpulkan kosakata untuk topik umum (hobi, pendidikan, teknologi).

  • Gunakan idiom sederhana seperti a piece of cake (sangat mudah).

3. Grammatical Range and Accuracy (Tata Bahasa)

• Definisi: Ketepatan struktur kalimat dan variasi grammar.

• Yang dinilai:

  • Apakah Anda menggunakan berbagai tenses dengan benar?

  • Apakah kalimat kompleks dipakai secara tepat?

• Tips:

  • Jangan hanya pakai simple present. Gunakan juga past perfect, conditionals, atau relative clauses.

4. Pronunciation (Pelafalan)

• Definisi: Kejelasan dan intonasi saat berbicara.

• Yang dinilai:

  • Apakah kata-kata terdengar jelas?

  • Apakah Anda menekankan suku kata penting (word stress)?

• Tips:

  • Latih pelafalan lewat rekaman suara.

  • Fokus pada penekanan suku kata agar ide utama lebih menonjol.

📌 Catatan penting: Aksen tidak menjadi masalah besar selama pengucapan jelas dan bisa dipahami.

Strategi Menghadapi IELTS Speaking Test

Banyak peserta tes gugup karena berpikir harus “menyenangkan” penguji. Padahal, ide atau pendapat Anda tidak akan memengaruhi skor. Yang penting adalah bagaimana Anda menyampaikan ide.

Strategi Kunci:

1. Jangan takut berbeda pendapat dengan penguji. Penilaian tidak terkait dengan isi jawaban, tapi cara menyampaikannya.

2. Gunakan struktur jawaban 3 langkah:

   • Berikan jawaban singkat (Yes, I do.)

   • Jelaskan alasan (Because I think it helps me relax after a long day.)

   • Tambahkan contoh (For instance, last weekend I watched…).

3. Latih stress patterns agar pengucapan lebih natural.

4. Jangan menjawab terlalu singkat. Usahakan minimal 2–3 kalimat per jawaban.

5. Berlatih dengan timer. Biasakan berbicara 1–2 menit tanpa henti.

Struktur IELTS Speaking Test

Tes berbicara berlangsung 11–14 menit dengan tiga bagian.

Speaking Part 1 (Perkenalan & Pertanyaan Umum)

• Durasi: 4–5 menit.

• Isi: Pertanyaan tentang kehidupan sehari-hari: pekerjaan, studi, hobi, keluarga, makanan.

• Tips:

  • Gunakan jawaban sederhana tapi terstruktur.

  • Hindari jawaban satu kata (Yes/No).

Contoh:

• Q: Do you enjoy cooking?

• A: Yes, I really enjoy cooking because it allows me to be creative. For example, last week I tried a new recipe with local spices and it turned out delicious.

Speaking Part 2 (Long Turn / Cue Card)

• Durasi: 3–4 menit (1 menit persiapan, 2 menit bicara).

• Isi: Monolog tentang topik tertentu (misalnya: pengalaman, tempat favorit, orang yang dikagumi).

• Tips:

  • Buat kerangka dengan WHO, WHAT, WHEN, WHERE, WHY, HOW.

  • Gunakan kertas catatan untuk menulis poin kunci.

  • Jangan khawatir bila melihat catatan saat berbicara.

Contoh Cue Card:
“Describe a book you recently read. You should say: what the book is about, why you decided to read it, and explain what you learned from it.”

Speaking Part 3 (Diskusi Mendalam)

• Durasi: 4–5 menit.

• Isi: Pertanyaan lanjutan terkait topik Part 2 dengan gaya diskusi akademik.

• Yang dinilai: kemampuan berpikir kritis, memberikan alasan, dan menghubungkan ide.

• Tips:

  • Gunakan ekspresi akademis: In my opinion, I strongly believe, It could be argued that…

  • Kembangkan jawaban dengan contoh nyata atau tren global.

Latihan (Speaking Practice)

Berlatih adalah kunci sukses IELTS Speaking.

Cara Latihan Efektif:

1. Simulasi Wawancara
   Rekam diri Anda menjawab pertanyaan umum. Dengarkan kembali untuk mengecek grammar, pronunciation, dan kosakata.

2. Gunakan Cue Cards
   Buat daftar cue card sendiri dari topik-topik populer IELTS (misalnya: teknologi, lingkungan, pendidikan).

3. Latihan dengan Partner
   Ajak teman untuk menjadi penguji. Mintalah mereka memberi pertanyaan follow-up.

4. Gunakan Timer
   Biasakan berbicara nonstop selama 2 menit untuk Part 2.

Cheat Sheet (Ringkasan Cepat IELTS Speaking Test)

FAQ tentang IELTS Speaking

1. Apakah aksen memengaruhi skor?
Tidak. Selama jelas dan mudah dipahami, aksen Anda tidak akan menurunkan nilai.

2. Apakah boleh berpikir sejenak sebelum menjawab?
Boleh. Anda bisa menggunakan filler seperti Well, let me think… agar tetap natural.

3. Apakah penguji menilai isi jawaban saya?
Tidak. Penguji tidak peduli apakah mereka setuju atau tidak dengan pendapat Anda. Mereka menilai cara Anda menyampaikan ide.

4. Bagaimana jika saya lupa kata tertentu?
Gunakan parafrasa. Misalnya, kalau lupa kata microwave, katakan a machine that we use to heat food quickly.

5. Apa topik yang sering muncul?
Hobi, pendidikan, teknologi, makanan, kesehatan, lingkungan, budaya, pekerjaan, dan masa depan.

Kesimpulan: Raih Skor Tinggi IELTS Speaking dengan Latihan Konsisten

Tes Speaking IELTS bukan hanya soal “berbicara bahasa Inggris”, tapi juga bagaimana Anda mengelola ide, menggunakan kosakata yang tepat, menjaga tata bahasa, dan melafalkan kata dengan jelas. Dengan strategi yang tepat, latihan konsisten, serta pemahaman mendalam tentang struktur tes, Anda bisa tampil percaya diri dan meraih skor tinggi.

✨ Langkah berikutnya: Mulailah latihan harian minimal 15 menit dengan cue card, rekaman suara, atau partner speaking. Ingat, konsistensi adalah kunci!

📌 50 Pertanyaan IELTS Speaking + Contoh Jawaban Band 7+

Part 1: Introduction & Interview (12 pertanyaan)

(Jawaban singkat, padat, dan personal)

1. Do you enjoy reading books?
   👉 Yes, I really enjoy reading, especially non-fiction books about psychology and self-development. I feel they help me understand human behavior better and give me practical tips I can apply in daily life.

2. Do you prefer living in the city or in the countryside?
   👉 I prefer living in the city because of the convenience. Everything is within reach—transportation, entertainment, and career opportunities. However, I do miss the peaceful atmosphere of the countryside sometimes.

3. What kind of music do you usually listen to?
   👉 I usually listen to pop and acoustic music. I find it relaxing, especially when I’m commuting. Sometimes, I also listen to instrumental tracks to help me focus while studying.

4. Do you like cooking?
   👉 Yes, I do. Cooking is not only a daily necessity but also a way for me to be creative. I love experimenting with spices, and it feels rewarding when my family enjoys the dishes I make.

5. Do you prefer tea or coffee?
   👉 I’m more of a coffee person. It helps me stay energized throughout the day, and I enjoy trying different types of coffee, like espresso or cappuccino, at local cafés.

6. What do you usually do on weekends?
   👉 On weekends, I usually spend time with my family and friends. Sometimes I go hiking or cycling to stay active, but other times I just relax at home watching movies.

7. Do you like using social media?
   👉 Yes, but I try to limit my screen time. Social media helps me stay connected with friends and updated with news, but I also know it can be distracting if I spend too much time scrolling.

8. What’s your favorite season of the year?
   👉 I like spring the most because the weather is mild and flowers start to bloom. It gives me positive energy and makes outdoor activities much more enjoyable.

9. Do you enjoy shopping?
   👉 Not really. I only shop when I need something specific. I prefer spending money on experiences, like traveling or trying new food, rather than buying things.

10. Do you prefer watching movies at home or in the cinema?
    👉 I prefer the cinema for action movies because of the sound and big screen, but if it’s a drama or comedy, I’d rather watch at home where it feels more comfortable.

11. Do you enjoy sports?
    👉 Yes, I enjoy playing badminton with my friends. It keeps me active and helps me relieve stress after a long day of studying or working.

12. Do you like animals?
    👉 Definitely! I love dogs because they are loyal and playful. I think pets can really help people feel less lonely and even improve their mental health.

Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Cards) (18 pertanyaan)

(Jawaban 2 menit, gunakan WHO, WHAT, WHEN, WHERE, WHY, HOW)

13. Describe a memorable journey you had.
    👉 One of the most memorable journeys I had was a trip to Bali last year with my close friends. We spent a week exploring beaches, temples, and local markets. What made it special was the bonding time we had—sharing meals, trying surfing for the first time, and watching the sunset together. That trip really helped us strengthen our friendship.

14. Describe a book you recently read.
    👉 I recently read “Atomic Habits” by James Clear. The book is about how small daily habits can create big changes in life. I liked it because the author explained psychology in a very practical way. After reading it, I started applying some of his techniques, like the 2-minute rule, and it has helped me stay more consistent.

15. Describe your favorite teacher.
    👉 My favorite teacher was my English teacher in high school. She always encouraged us to speak confidently, even if we made mistakes. Her teaching style was very engaging, and she often used real-life examples. Thanks to her, I developed an interest in learning English.

16. Describe a skill you want to learn.
    👉 I’d like to learn graphic design. I think in today’s digital era, design is an important skill that can be applied in almost any field. It would also allow me to express my creativity and maybe even start a side business in the future.

17. Describe a historical place you have visited.
    👉 I visited Borobudur Temple in Yogyakarta. It’s one of the largest Buddhist temples in the world. I was amazed by the architecture and the carvings that tell ancient stories. The atmosphere was peaceful, and I could really feel the cultural richness of Indonesia.

18. Describe a person who inspires you.
    👉 I’d say Elon Musk inspires me a lot. His determination to innovate in technology and space exploration is remarkable. Although many people doubted his ideas, he kept working hard until he achieved success. It motivates me to take risks and be persistent.

19. Describe a favorite piece of clothing.
    👉 I have a jacket that I wear very often. It’s simple, black, and comfortable, but it goes well with almost anything. I bought it during a trip abroad, so it also reminds me of good memories every time I wear it.

20. Describe an exciting experience you had as a child.
    👉 When I was ten, I joined a school competition in storytelling. At first, I was nervous, but once I started, I actually enjoyed it. Surprisingly, I won first place. That moment gave me confidence to speak in public, something I still value today.

21. Describe your favorite restaurant.
    👉 My favorite restaurant is a small local place that serves traditional Indonesian food. Their grilled chicken with spicy sambal is my favorite. The food is not only delicious but also affordable, and the atmosphere feels like home.

22. Describe a foreign culture you find interesting.
    👉 I find Japanese culture fascinating, especially their discipline and respect for others. I admire how they value punctuality and cleanliness. I think these traits contribute a lot to their country’s success and orderliness.

23. Describe a piece of technology you often use.
    👉 I use my smartphone the most because it’s multifunctional. I use it for studying, entertainment, and communication. I think life would feel much harder without it, especially in today’s world where everything is digital.

24. Describe a healthy habit you have.
    👉 I try to drink at least two liters of water every day. It may sound simple, but it really makes me feel more energetic and helps me concentrate better. It’s also good for maintaining healthy skin.

25. Describe a time you helped someone.
    👉 A few months ago, I helped my friend prepare for his job interview. We practiced common questions and improved his English speaking skills. In the end, he got the job, and I felt really proud that I could contribute.

26. Describe a gift you received that made you happy.
    👉 I once received a handmade notebook from my best friend. She decorated it with my favorite quotes and pictures. It was special because it showed effort and thoughtfulness, not just money spent.

27. Describe a film you recently watched.
    👉 I recently watched “Oppenheimer.” It was quite long, but the storyline was powerful. I liked how the movie portrayed not only the scientific achievement but also the ethical dilemmas behind it.

28. Describe your favorite holiday destination.
    👉 My favorite holiday destination is Bandung. The weather is cool, the food is delicious, and the scenery is beautiful. I especially love visiting tea plantations and volcanoes there.

29. Describe a job you would like to have in the future.
    👉 I would like to work as a digital marketer. I think it’s a dynamic field with lots of opportunities, especially with the growth of social media. It would also allow me to combine creativity with strategy.

30. Describe a time you learned something new.
    👉 Last year, I learned how to swim properly. At first, I was afraid of water, but with consistent practice, I gained confidence. Now, swimming has become my favorite exercise to stay healthy.

Part 3: Discussion (20 pertanyaan)

(Jawaban lebih analitis, kritis, dan formal)

31. Why do people enjoy traveling?
    👉 I think people travel to escape their routine, experience new cultures, and broaden their perspectives. Traveling also helps people relax and recharge, which is important for mental health.

32. How has technology changed the way we communicate?
    👉 Technology has made communication faster and more convenient. With social media and instant messaging, we can connect with anyone in the world instantly. However, it also reduces face-to-face interactions in some cases.

33. Do you think young people read less nowadays? Why?
    👉 Yes, I believe so. With the rise of smartphones and social media, many young people spend more time online than reading books. However, e-books and online articles are still popular among them.

34. What are the advantages of living in a big city?
    👉 Living in a big city offers better job opportunities, education, and healthcare. On the downside, it can be stressful because of traffic and high living costs.

35. Do you think public transportation should be free?
    👉 It would be beneficial because it reduces traffic congestion and pollution. However, making it free might be difficult to sustain financially. A better option could be affordable and efficient public transport.

36. Why is it important to preserve traditional culture?
    👉 Traditional culture connects us to our history and identity. If we lose it, we lose part of who we are. Moreover, it can also attract tourism and strengthen national pride.

37. Do advertisements influence people’s choices?
    👉 Absolutely. Advertisements shape consumer behavior by creating desire or highlighting needs. Sometimes, they even exaggerate benefits, which makes people buy things they don’t really need.

38. Do you think parents should control how much time children spend on the internet?
    👉 Yes, I think parental guidance is necessary. Children can benefit from educational content online, but excessive use may affect their health and social skills. Balance is the key.

39. What role does education play in a person’s future?
    👉 Education provides knowledge, but more importantly, it shapes skills such as problem-solving and critical thinking. A good education can open doors to better career opportunities.

40. Do you think working from home will become more common in the future?
    👉 Yes, I believe so. Many companies have realized that remote work can be efficient and cost-saving. However, some jobs still require physical presence, so a hybrid model might be the future.

41. Should students be encouraged to study abroad?
    👉 Yes, studying abroad allows students to experience different cultures and gain global perspectives. It also improves language skills and makes them more adaptable in diverse environments.

42. Do you think social media has more positive or negative effects?
    👉 It depends on how it’s used. Social media is great for networking and learning, but it can also lead to addiction and misinformation. Users need to be critical and disciplined.

43. Why do people like to watch sports?
    👉 Sports bring excitement and a sense of belonging. Supporting a team creates unity, while playing sports also promotes health and teamwork values.

44. Do you think celebrities should be role models?
    👉 Not always. Some celebrities set positive examples, but others don’t. People should be selective and not blindly follow everything a celebrity does.

45. What impact does globalization have on local culture?
    👉 Globalization spreads new ideas and lifestyles, but it can also threaten local traditions. That’s why balancing modern influences with cultural preservation is important.

46. Do you think money can buy happiness?
    👉 Money can buy comfort and security, which contribute to happiness. However, true happiness also depends on relationships, health, and personal fulfillment.

47. Why do some people prefer online shopping?
    👉 Online shopping is convenient, saves time, and often offers discounts. However, some people still prefer physical stores to check the quality directly.

48. What is the importance of teamwork in the workplace?
    👉 Teamwork increases efficiency and creativity. When people collaborate, they can combine different skills to solve problems more effectively.

49. Do you think young people today face more stress than in the past?
    👉 Yes, I think so. The competition in education and job markets is much tougher today. Social media also adds pressure by creating unrealistic standards of success.

50. How can governments encourage people to protect the environment?
    👉 Governments can create awareness campaigns, provide incentives for eco-friendly behavior, and enforce laws against pollution. People are more likely to act responsibly if they see strong policies in place.