Understanding Lexical Resource in IELTS Speaking

2d • IELTS

Lexical Resource is one of the 4 scoring criteria which is 25% of your score in IELTS Speaking. It measures the range of vocabulary, ability to use fewer common ones, use of idiomatic expressions, ability to paraphrase, word choice accuracy and control of collocations.

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Here are Part 1 samples that clearly demonstrates Lexical Resource in IELTS Speaking.

🗣️IELTS Speaking Part 1

Topic: HOBBIES

� Question 1: What do you usually do in your free time?

❌ Weaker Lexical Resource Sample:

“In my free time, I watch movies and use my phone. It is very relaxing and very interesting. I like watching different movies because it is fun and makes me very happy.”

🔎 Problems:

Relies on repetitive vocabulary “very”
Basic vocabulary (fun, happy, interesting)
Narrow range
No specific description

✅ Strong Lexical Resource Sample:

‘’Well, I tend to unwind by watching films, especially psychological suspense ones during my spare time. They’re utterly absorbing since they maintain a strong sense of anticipation. Moreover, it’s a great way to switch off after a hectic day and immerse myself in an entirely different reality.’’

✔ Why This Is Better:

“free time” → spare time
“relax” → unwind / switch off
“interesting” → absorbing
Natural collocations: a strong sense of anticipation, hectic day
Greater lexical precision

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🗣️IELTS Speaking Part 1

Topic: FOOD

� Question 1: Do you prefer eating at home or at restaurants?

❌ Weaker Lexical Resource Sample:

‘’I prefer eating at home because the food is good and cheap. At home, I feel comfortable and relaxed. However, restaurants are expensive and the food is not always good..’’

🔎 Problems:

Overuse of “good”
Simple adjectives (cheap, expensive)
Limited variety
Insufficient topic-related words

✅ Stronger Lexical Resource Sample:

‘’I have a preference for homemade meals, mainly due to their health benefits and budget-friendliness. Making meals myself also gives me full control over the ingredients and the freedom to experiment with different tastes. Although dining out can be enjoyable, it tends to be overpriced and less nutritious.’’

✔ Why This Is Better:

“cheap” → budget-friendliness (n)
“good” → nutritious / enjoyable
Topic vocabulary: homemade meals, control over the ingredients, experiment with different tastes
Appropriate lexical pairings