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Describe a podcast or radio programme that you enjoy listening to

Try the card on the exam timer first, then read the band-8 sample answer and the Part 3 questions that follow it.

Practice it like the exam

Part 2 · Candidate task card

Describe a podcast or radio programme that you enjoy listening to.

You should say:

  • what the programme is
  • what it is about
  • when and where you listen to it

and explain why you enjoy it.

Ready

1 minute to prepare, then 2 minutes to speak. It switches on its own.

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Band 8 sample answer

258 words · about 2 minutes at a natural pace · Phrases from the vocabulary list are highlighted.

A podcast I really enjoy is one about psychology and everyday behaviour, hosted by two friends who are both university lecturers. I first came across it about a year ago, when I was looking for something to listen to on my commute, and I've been subscribed ever since.

Each episode lasts around forty minutes, and a new one comes out every Tuesday. In every show, the hosts pick a topic, such as why we procrastinate, how habits form, or what makes people happy, and they discuss recent research in a relaxed and humorous way. Occasionally they invite a guest speaker, such as a doctor or a researcher, to answer questions. I normally listen on the metro in the morning, and sometimes while I'm washing up or going for a walk in the evening.

There are several reasons why I enjoy it. For a start, it's really insightful. I've learned practical things I can apply, like the idea of breaking big tasks into tiny steps so they don't feel overwhelming. Secondly, the hosts have a great chemistry, and they make jokes and tell personal stories, so it feels as though I'm listening to friends talking, not being lectured. Thirdly, the format is perfect for someone with a busy life. I can learn on the go, without having to sit in front of a screen. I've also noticed that it has improved my listening skills in English, because they speak at a natural speed. I always look forward to the next episode, and I've recommended it to my whole team.

What to notice

  • It takes the points on the card in order, so the examiner can follow it.
  • Each point gets a specific detail or a short story, which is what keeps a talk going for two minutes.
  • The "explain" line at the end gets the most time, because that is where you give an opinion and show your range of language.

We wrote this answer for practice; it does not come from IELTS. Take its structure and phrases and tell your own story, because examiners notice memorised answers.

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Useful vocabulary

PhraseMeaning
subscribe tosign up to receive new episodes
the hostthe person who presents a programme
on the gowhile travelling or busy
a guest speakera visitor invited to talk
insightfulshowing clear understanding
a new episodethe latest instalment in a series

Plan it in one minute

Choose what to talk about in the first ten seconds, then write two or three key words for each point. Full sentences take too long to write and to read back.

Who or what you could talk about

  • A language-learning or business podcast
  • A storytelling or comedy show
  • A morning radio show with music and news

How to spend the two minutes

  1. 25 swhat the programme is
  2. 25 swhat it is about
  3. 25 swhen and where you listen to it
  4. 45 sand explain why you enjoy it.

Part 3 questions

In the exam these come straight after your talk, on the wider subject: Radio, podcasts and listening. Answer each in 3–4 sentences, with your view, a reason and an example.

  1. Why have podcasts become so popular in recent years?
  2. Is radio still important in the age of the internet?
  3. What are the advantages of listening to something rather than watching it?
  4. Do you think podcasts can be a good tool for education?
  5. Who do you think should be allowed to make radio or podcast content?

Frequently asked questions

How should I describe a book, film or programme in an IELTS cue card?

Do not retell the whole plot. Give the title and what it is about in two sentences, then spend your time on one part you remember and why it affected you. Your opinion is what fills the two minutes.

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