Part 3 is the most challenging part of the Speaking test. The examiner asks abstract, society-level questions that require you to think critically and speak at length.
The key difference between Parts 1 and 3: | Part 1 | Part 3 | |---|---| | Personal experience | Society-level opinion | | "Do you enjoy cooking?" | "Why do you think cooking skills are declining in modern society?" | | Short, personal answers | Extended, analytical answers |
The Band 6 Part 3 formula:
- Position — state your view directly
- Reason — give the main reason
- Example or evidence — support with a specific example
- Concession — acknowledge the other side briefly
- Reaffirm — return to your position
Useful stalling phrases (to give yourself thinking time):
- "That's an interesting question. I think..."
- "Well, from my perspective..."
- "It's difficult to say, but I suppose..."
- "I hadn't really thought about it that way, but..."
Band 4 Part 3 answer
I think technology is good for society. It helps people communicate. Also it helps with work. But sometimes it is bad.
Why this works: No development. No analysis. 'Sometimes it is bad' — no explanation of when or why. Too short.
Band 6 Part 3 answer
That's a really thought-provoking question. From my perspective, technology has had a broadly positive impact on society, primarily because it has democratised access to information and education. For instance, someone in a remote village can now access the same online courses as a student at a top university. That said, I do think there are legitimate concerns about the way social media algorithms can create echo chambers and reinforce extreme viewpoints. So while the technology itself is largely neutral, the way it is designed and regulated matters enormously.
Why this works: Position → Reason (democratised access) → Example (remote village) → Concession (echo chambers) → Reaffirm (design and regulation). Approximately 90 seconds. Analytical and balanced.
democratise
to make something available to everyone
Example: The internet has democratised access to information.
echo chamber
an environment where people only hear views they already agree with
Example: Social media can create echo chambers.
legitimate
valid and reasonable
Example: These are legitimate concerns.
reinforce
to strengthen or support
Example: This reinforces existing inequalities.
neutral
not supporting either side
Example: Technology itself is largely neutral.
Part 3 requires you to discuss trends and possibilities. Use speculative language to show analytical thinking.
- →Young people today tend to rely more heavily on digital communication than previous generations.
- →It is likely that automation will displace a significant number of jobs over the next decade.
- →Governments appear to be increasingly aware of the need for stricter data protection laws.
"This is primarily because..."
"That said, there are drawbacks."
"Broadly speaking, the trend is positive."
"In the long run, this will prove beneficial."
- Part 3 requires society-level analysis, not just personal experience.
- Use the formula: Position → Reason → Example → Concession → Reaffirm.
- Use stalling phrases to give yourself thinking time without going silent.
- Aim for 60–90 seconds per Part 3 answer.
Answer these Part 3 questions using the full formula (aim for 60–90 seconds each): 1) How has technology changed the way people socialise? 2) Do you think governments should control what people post on social media? 3) Why do you think some people prefer to live in cities rather than rural areas?