IELTS Speaking Part 2 Describe a Book/Movie: Band 9 Sample

Quick Answer: To score Band 9 in IELTS Speaking Part 2 when describing a book or movie, use a clear structure (introduction, plot, characters, personal reaction), advanced vocabulary (e.g., "captivating," "thought-provoking"), and natural fluency. Practice with a 2-minute monologue, focusing on coherence and pronunciation.

Table of Contents

Why This Topic Matters

The Perfect Structure for Band 9

Vocabulary to Impress the Examiner

Band Score Comparison Table

Why This Topic Matters

The "describe a book or movie" cue card is one of the most common in IELTS Speaking Part 2. It tests your ability to narrate, describe, and express opinions—all essential for a high band score. Examiners look for fluency, lexical resource, grammatical range, and pronunciation. A well-structured answer with vivid vocabulary can push you from Band 6 to Band 9.

The Perfect Structure for Band 9

To impress the examiner, follow this 4-part structure:

Introduction (15-20 seconds): State the book/movie title, genre, and why you chose it.

Plot Summary (30-40 seconds): Briefly describe the story without spoilers.

Characters & Themes (30-40 seconds): Highlight key characters and what the story explores.

Personal Reaction (20-30 seconds): Explain why it resonated with you and its impact.

Example: "I’d like to talk about a book that left a lasting impression on me—'To Kill a Mockingbird' by Harper Lee. It’s a classic American novel set in the 1930s, and I first read it during my high school literature class. The story revolves around a young girl named Scout Finch, who learns about racial injustice and moral courage through her father, Atticus, a lawyer defending a black man falsely accused of a crime."

Vocabulary to Impress the Examiner

Use these phrases to elevate your answer:

For describing impact: "profoundly moved me," "left an indelible mark," "resonated deeply with me"

For plot: "unfolds in a gripping manner," "takes an unexpected turn," "builds up to a climactic moment"

For characters: "multidimensional," "relatable," "morally complex"

For themes: "explores universal themes of justice," "delves into the human condition"

For personal reaction: "I was utterly captivated," "it challenged my perspective," "I found myself reflecting on..."

Example sentence: "The protagonist’s journey was so profoundly moving that I found myself reflecting on my own values long after I finished the book."

Band Score Comparison Table

Band	What Examiner Wants
6	Basic description with simple vocabulary. Some hesitation. Limited range of tenses.
7	Clear structure, good vocabulary (e.g., "fascinating," "memorable"), some idiomatic language. Minor errors.
8	Fluent with natural pauses. Wide range of vocabulary (e.g., "gripping," "poignant"). Complex sentences.
9	Effortless fluency. Sophisticated vocabulary (e.g., "profoundly moving," "unforgettable"). Perfect grammar. Natural intonation.

Sample Answers

Band 7: "I’d like to talk about a movie I watched recently—'The Pursuit of Happyness'. It’s about a man named Chris Gardner who becomes homeless but never gives up. He tries to get a job as a stockbroker while taking care of his son. The movie is very inspiring because it shows that hard work can change your life. I liked it because it made me feel motivated." Band 8: "I’d like to describe a book that had a profound impact on me—'The Alchemist' by Paulo Coelho. It’s a philosophical novel about a shepherd named Santiago who embarks on a journey to find treasure. Along the way, he learns about following his dreams and listening to his heart. What I found particularly compelling was the way the author weaves themes of destiny and self-discovery into a simple yet powerful narrative. The language is poetic, and the message is universal. I’d highly recommend it to anyone seeking inspiration." Band 9: "I’d like to talk about a book that left an indelible mark on my psyche—'To Kill a Mockingbird' by Harper Lee. It’s a Pulitzer Prize-winning novel set in the racially charged American South during the 1930s. The story is narrated by Scout Finch, a young girl whose father, Atticus, is a lawyer defending a black man falsely accused of raping a white woman. What makes this book truly extraordinary is its exploration of moral courage and empathy. Atticus’s unwavering integrity in the face of societal prejudice is nothing short of inspiring. The author masterfully weaves together themes of racial injustice, childhood innocence, and the loss of innocence. I was particularly struck by the line, 'You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view.' This book didn’t just entertain me—it fundamentally changed how I view justice and compassion. I’d wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone who wants to understand the complexities of human nature."

Common Mistakes

❌Talking too long about the plot: Examiners want your opinion, not a summary. Keep plot to 30 seconds.

❌Using vague language: Avoid "it was good" or "I liked it." Use specific adjectives like "gripping," "poignant," "thought-provoking."

❌Forgetting the personal reaction: Always explain why the book/movie mattered to you. This shows critical thinking.

Top Tips

Use the 4-part structure: Introduction → Plot → Characters/Themes → Personal Reaction. This ensures coherence.

Practice with a timer: Speak for exactly 2 minutes. Record yourself to check fluency and filler words.

Learn 5-10 advanced phrases: For example, "profoundly moving," "unforgettable," "a masterful blend of..." Use them naturally.

Resources

Check out IELTS Active for practice tests and study materials.

FAQ

Q: How long should my answer be in Part 2? A: Aim for 1.5 to 2 minutes. The examiner will stop you at 2 minutes, so practice timing. Q: Can I describe a movie instead of a book? A: Yes, the cue card often says "book or movie." Choose whichever you can describe more vividly. Q: What if I forget the plot? A: Focus on your personal reaction. Examiners care more about your language than perfect recall. Q: How do I avoid running out of things to say? A: Use the 4-part structure and add details like setting, characters, and why it impacted you. Practice with a timer.

Key Takeaways

✅Use a clear 4-part structure: Introduction → Plot → Characters/Themes → Personal Reaction.

✅Incorporate advanced vocabulary naturally (e.g., "profoundly moving," "unforgettable").

✅Practice fluency with a timer—aim for 2 minutes without pauses.

✅Avoid over-summarizing; focus on your opinion and emotional response.

Related Posts:

IELTS Speaking Part 2: How to Structure Your Answer for Band 9

Top 10 Vocabulary Words for IELTS Speaking

Common Mistakes in IELTS Speaking Part 2 (and How to Fix Them)