IELTS Speaking Part 3: How to Express Strong Opinions

Description: Use precise opinion frames, reasons, and evidence to deliver strong yet balanced answers in IELTS Speaking Part 3.

Introduction

Part 3 asks for opinions about general issues (education, technology, society). It tests your reasoning, not just vocabulary. Strong answers combine a clear stance, one or two reasons, and tiny examples or evidence—delivered in 40–60 seconds.

A. Opinion Frame (S.R.E.)

Use this micro‑structure per answer:

  • Stance: State your opinion in one sentence.
  • Reason: Give one key reason (cause, benefit, risk).
  • Evidence: Add a tiny example, data point, or observation.

Example
Q: Should governments invest more in public transport?
A: Stance – "Yes, they should."
Reason – "It reduces congestion and emissions."
Evidence – "When my city expanded bus lanes, commute times dropped noticeably."

B. Stance Starters (Sound Confident, Not Aggressive)

  • Direct: I strongly believe… / I’m convinced that…
  • Measured: In general, I’d say… / On balance, I think…
  • Conditional: If we look at…, then…

Tip: Choose one stance style and keep it consistent across answers.

C. Reason Types (Pick 1–2)

  • Practical impact (cost, speed, convenience)
  • Social effect (equality, access, community)
  • Long‑term angle (sustainability, future skills)
  • Risk control (privacy, safety)

Model
Q: Is online learning as effective as traditional classes?
A: On balance, I think it can be. Practically, it offers flexibility for working adults. Socially, it widens access for people outside big cities. However, quality control is the challenge, so institutions must design active tasks, not just videos.

D. Evidence You Can Use (Micro‑Examples)

  • Observation: In my university, hybrid classes increased attendance.
  • Small data point: A recent survey in my country showed…
  • Personal example (brief): When I took a MOOC, weekly quizzes kept me engaged.

Keep evidence one sentence so your speech stays focused.

E. Comparing Two Sides (to show balance)

  • That said, there’s a downside…
  • While it’s efficient, it may widen the gap for…
  • It depends on… (age, income, infrastructure).
    Add one counterpoint, then re‑state your stance.

F. Delivery & Language

  • Linkers: first, secondly, in addition, however, overall
  • Opinion verbs: suggest, imply, indicate, demonstrate
  • Cautious tone: seems to, tends to, is likely to
  • Finish strong: Overall, the benefits outweigh the costs.

G. 5‑Minute Drill (Daily)

  1. Pick 3 Part 3 questions.
  2. Answer with S.R.E. (40–60s each).
  3. Replay and check: stance clear? reason specific? evidence short?
  4. Re‑record adding one counterpoint.

Conclusion

Part 3 rewards organized thinking. Use Stance → Reason → Evidence, add one counterpoint, and close decisively.

CTA: Want live Part 3 practice with feedback? Join Englishehe’s free group speaking class (6–8 learners). Tap Register on our website.

IELTS Speaking Ielts Speaking Series