Master the speaking test and achieve your nursing registration requirements.
For Filipino nurses pursuing international careers, the IELTS Speaking test is often the most intimidating component. The good news? Speaking is the most improvable IELTS skill.
IELTS Speaking Test Structure
The Speaking test is 11-14 minutes with three parts:
Part 1: Introduction (4-5 minutes)
- Questions about familiar topics: work, hometown, hobbies
- Answers should be 2-3 sentences each
Part 2: Long Turn / Cue Card (3-4 minutes)
- You receive a topic card with prompts
- 1 minute to prepare, 1-2 minutes to speak
Part 3: Discussion (4-5 minutes)
- Abstract questions related to Part 2 topic
- Requires giving opinions and analyzing issues
Band 7.0 Scoring Criteria
| Criterion | Band 7 Descriptor |
|---|---|
| Fluency & Coherence | Speaks at length without noticeable effort |
| Lexical Resource | Uses vocabulary flexibly; idiomatic expressions |
| Grammar | Uses complex structures with flexibility |
| Pronunciation | Sustained use of positive features |
Common Nursing-Related Topics
Your Work as a Nurse
- Why did you become a nurse?
- Describe your typical workday
- What challenges do you face?
Healthcare in Your Country
- How is healthcare organized?
- What are the main health challenges?
Technology and Healthcare
- How is technology used in hospitals?
- Will robots replace nurses?
Top 7 Tips for Band 7.0+
1. Extend Your Answers
Poor: “Do you enjoy your job?” → “Yes.”
Better: “Yes, I really do. I find it rewarding to help patients recover. There are challenging days, especially in ICU, but positive outcomes make it worthwhile.”
2. Use Healthcare Vocabulary Naturally
| Instead of… | Try… |
|---|---|
| “sick people” | “patients” or “clients” |
| “give medicine” | “administer medication” |
| “check health” | “assess vital signs” |
3. Develop Opinions for Part 3
Structure: State view → Give reason → Provide example → Consider opposite view
4. Practice Paraphrasing
Avoid repeating the examiner’s exact words. Rephrase questions in your response.
5. Work on Pronunciation
Focus on: /th/ sounds, word stress, sentence rhythm, intonation
6. Use Discourse Markers
- Adding: Furthermore, Additionally
- Contrasting: However, On the other hand
- Examples: For instance, Such as
7. Manage Nerves
Practice with a partner, time yourself, record and review
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ One-word answers — Always expand with reasons
❌ Memorized scripts — Examiners detect and penalize this
❌ Speaking too fast — Clarity matters more than speed
❌ Overusing fillers — “Actually” and “basically” become distracting
Practice Strategies
Daily Practice (15-30 min)
- Shadow native speakers (YouTube, podcasts)
- Answer Part 1 questions aloud
- Record yourself and review
Weekly Practice (1-2 hours)
- Full mock tests with a partner
- Practice 3-4 Part 2 cue cards
- Debate healthcare topics
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the IELTS Speaking test?
11-14 minutes total: Part 1 (4-5 min), Part 2 (3-4 min), Part 3 (4-5 min).
Can I use medical terminology?
Yes, using appropriate medical vocabulary demonstrates lexical range. Use terms naturally without overusing jargon.
How do I improve pronunciation?
Focus on word stress, sentence rhythm, and /th/ sounds. Regular shadowing practice is highly effective.
What if I don’t understand a question?
Politely ask: “Could you rephrase that, please?” Asking once or twice is acceptable.
You Can Achieve Band 7.0
Filipino nurses communicate in English daily. The IELTS Speaking test simply requires demonstrating that ability in a structured format. With consistent practice, Band 7.0 is absolutely achievable.
Contact Ray A. Gapuz Review System:
- Website: raygapuzreviewsystem.com
- Location: United Nations Avenue, Manila
- Programs: IELTS Review, OET Review, English Coaching