Complete FCE Speaking Guide
Updated January 2024
Part 4
It Depends!
Objective
To discuss in more detail the topic from Part 3 with your partner and the examiner.
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How it works
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Let's say the topic in Part 3 was tourism. The examiner will ask you both a number of questions such as:
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Some people say we travel too much these days. What do you think?
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It depends doesn't it? Maybe yes, rich people travel too much which is bad for the environment but on the other hand some people don't have time to travel because they work a lot.
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Another question might be:
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Why do people like to go abroad on holiday?
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Again, it depends! People is very general and they go abroad for lots of reasons. There are no right or wrong answers here. Just give your opinion.
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Because you need to think a bit more time fillers are important again here.
You could begin your answer with:
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To be honest with you I'd say that...
I've never thought about it before but...
That's a really good question...
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Or combine them:
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That's a really good question. To be honest with you I've never thought about it before but I'd say...
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Interaction is key again!
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As in Part 3 involve your partner. Agree or disagree with them, add information and ask their opinion.
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TIP! It's common here to be asked a question about your country. For example Where do tourists like to go in your country?
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It's a good idea to give examples in this part, which is an opportunity to use some great language:
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Some people say we travel too much these days. What do you think?
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An answer could begin like this:
Well in the case of rich people, yes I think they do. On the other hand, some people don't have enough time or can't afford to travel often.​
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Another answer might be:
When it comes to rich people I believe they do. Having said that, others don't have the time or the means to do it.
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Personally speaking, I don't travel by plane so much because I care about the environment.
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TIP! Exactly the same as in Part 3, if you get stuck and can't think of anything to say, try involving your partner. At the same time, if you see that your partner is having problems, you can help them. This is all a natural part of interactive communication.
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And then the examiner will say the magic words!
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That is the end of the test.
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If you've made it this far then we hope we've been able to help you. And if you're doing the test soon then Good Luck!