IELTS Speaking Part 1

IELTS Speaking Part 1: Neighbours questions and answers

IELTS Speaking Part 1 questions are short and personal: the examiner asks three to five on two or three everyday topics in the first four to five minutes. These are the 8 questions about neighbours in the BandLadder test bank, with Band 8 sample answers for the most frequent ones and useful vocabulary. Aim for two or three sentences each: answer, reason, one detail.
  • 8 questions
  • 6 Band 8 answers
  • 4 to 5 minutes

6 answers

Neighbours questions with sample answers

1

How well do you know the people who live next door to you?

I know them quite well, actually. We have lived in the same apartment block for over five years, so we often catch up in the hallway to discuss local events or share recommendations for nearby restaurants.

2

How often do you see them?

We cross paths almost every morning while heading to the train station. It has become a pleasant ritual to share a brief chat about our plans for the day before we both rush off to work.

3

What kinds of problem do people sometimes have with their neighbours?

Noise disturbances are the most common issue people face. Whether it is loud music late at night or constant drilling during weekend renovations, these things can create significant friction between residents who just want some peace.

4

How do you think neighbours can help each other?

Small gestures make a massive difference in a community. For instance, looking after someone's pets while they are away or taking in packages when they are out are simple ways to build trust and foster support.

5

How often do you see your neighbours?

Seeing them is quite a regular occurrence since our balconies are adjacent. Whenever I am out tending to my plants, they usually pop their heads out to say hello, which keeps our relationship friendly and consistent.

6

Do you invite your neighbours to your home?

On special occasions, I occasionally host a small dinner for them. We find that sharing a meal is the best way to move past casual acquaintances and develop a more genuine, long-term friendship with the people nearby.

Details are invented. Use the shape, not the sentences: examiners mark memorised answers down.

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2 questions

More neighbours questions to practise

  1. 1Do you think you are a good neighbour?
  2. 2Has a neighbour ever helped you?

6 words

Useful vocabulary and tips

  • catch up

    To talk to someone and exchange recent life news

  • cross paths

    To meet someone by chance while going somewhere else

  • noise disturbances

    Unwanted sounds that interrupt someone's peace and quiet

  • create friction

    To cause disagreement or conflict between different people

  • adjacent

    Located very close or next to something else nearby

  • casual acquaintances

    People you know slightly but are not close friends

  • →Keep answers concise and focused; three to four sentences is usually the perfect length.
  • →Use a mix of personal anecdotes and general observations to show your range of vocabulary.

Frequently asked questions

How many questions are in IELTS Speaking Part 1?+

Usually about ten to twelve, over four to five minutes: a few on your work, study or home, then three or four short questions on each of two everyday topics.

How long should a Part 1 answer be?+

Two or three sentences, about 15 to 20 seconds: a direct answer, a reason and one detail. One-word answers cost fluency marks, and long speeches eat into the examiner's time.

Keep practising

More Part 1 topics

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