SHOPPING

In this lesson you will learn some key vocabulary by listening to some sample answers for IELTS speaking part 1 questions related to 'shopping'. Make sure to take note of any phrases or words you want to remember!

01 Vocabulary

Read the below definitions. Then complete the quiz that follows.

• Shopaholic (n)– a person who enjoys shopping too much.
• To cut down(v) – to reduce the size, amount or number of something. 
• Reasonably-priced – a good price/not too expensive.  
• High street(n/adj) – the main shopping street in a town/city. 
• Brick and mortar store(n) – traditional shop that sells from a building(not online)
• A hassle (n)– a difficult task/activity.
• To be sick and tired of (v)- annoyed with something/someone(happens often) 
• To be on a budget  – having a limited amount of money. 
• Online retailer (n)– shop that sells something on the internet. 
• A gadget (n) - a small device/tool. Eg. Apple watch
• Frugal (adj) - used to describe someone who is careful with money. ie. someone who does not waste money or buy many expensive things.
• A shopping spree (n) - a short period of time in which someone buys a lot of things.

Now, take the quiz. More than one answer may be possible. Choose the most appropriate answer.

02 Listening - Fill in the blanks

Listen to the audio recording of the sample answers. Use a notebook to take note of the answers. Then check your answers.

03 Pronunciation Focus

Listen to each of the recordings and repeat what you hear.

04 Practice

Now it's your turn, prepare your own answers using some of the vocabulary you learned today.

You should use the model answers to help you and you can 'steal' some phrases but you should not copy or try to memorize the answers.

Then, practice answering the below questions. It is a good idea to record your answers on your phone then listen to the answers and correct any mistakes you can hear.

Remember to get a high score you need to to the following.

• Answer the question by paraphrasing.
• Expand. (Why/when/how long)
• Use different tenses/structures.
• Include fluency markers.
• Use some idiomatic vocabulary and phrasal verbs.

1. Do you like shopping? 

Yes, I’m a massive fan of shopping.

Actually, I’d say that I’m a bit of a shopaholic because I absolutely love to try on and buy new clothes. In fact, I used to go on shopping sprees every month, but because I was spending too much money, I had to cut down. 

2. What are your favorite stores?

As mentioned, I’ve become more frugal, so I tend to go for reasonably-priced high-street stores.I suppose my favorite shop is H&M.

It’s good value for money and they always stock the latest trends.

3. Have you ever bought anything online?

Yes, I've purchased some gadgets on the internet.

Last year, I bought my phone from an online retailer as it was much better value there than in a brick and mortar store. 

I'd like to buy clothes online, but I’m always afraid that when delivered, they won’t fit me.