Speaking · Speaking Interview
Pets and Animals Interview
Speaking · Interview
Instructions
This task measures your ability to respond to a range of general and academic questions by producing a coherent, clear spoken response with natural pace, expressive intonation, and varied, accurate language.
You will answer 4 interviewer questions. You will have 45 seconds to answer each question. Initial questions focus on factual information and personal experience, whereas later questions ask you to express and support your opinions.
- Allow microphone access when prompted.
- Use headphones and find a quiet space.
- You will hear the scenario, then each interviewer question. Recording starts automatically when the question audio ends.
- Take a deep breath — and let's go.
Pets and Animals Interview
Answer each interview question aloud
Scenario
You have agreed to take part in a research study about people and animals. You will have a short online interview with a researcher. The researcher will ask you some questions.
Question 1
Thanks for speaking with me today. I'm studying the role animals play in people's lives. Do you have a pet, or have you had one in the past?
Show a model answer
We had a dog when I was growing up, and she was very much part of the household. She was a mix of breeds and came from a shelter near our house. My sister and I shared the walking, though I suspect our mother did most of it. I don't have a pet now, mainly because of my working hours.
Question 2
What difference do you think a pet makes to the person who keeps one?
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The biggest one is routine. A dog has to be walked whether or not you feel like it, and that gets people outside and talking to neighbours. There is also simple company, which matters a great deal to people who live alone. It is not all positive, though. Pets are expensive and they limit how easily you can travel.
Question 3
Some people keep animals for work rather than company. What is your view on that?
Show a model answer
I think it is reasonable as long as the animal is properly looked after. Working dogs on farms often seem healthier and happier than pets kept in small flats. What matters to me is the standard of care rather than the purpose. The problems start when an animal is treated purely as equipment.
Question 4
If your city wanted to be friendlier to animals, what would you suggest?
Show a model answer
I would start with more fenced green space where dogs can run safely off the lead. At the moment owners either break the rules or drive out of town, and neither is ideal. I would also make it easier and cheaper to have animals treated, because cost is why some people delay going to a vet. Practical things like that do more good than campaigns.
What a high-scoring response does
- Answers the question that was asked in the first sentence
- Supports it with a reason and a concrete example
- Keeps talking fluently for most of the 45 seconds
- Sounds natural: clear pronunciation, few long pauses
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