IELTS Speaking Questions, Model Answers & Vocabulary

Part 3Topic 9 - Shopping & MoneyEasy-Intermediate

Is society becoming increasingly materialistic?

Liệu xã hội đang ngày càng trở nên vật chất hóa?

[POINT]Point

Society may be becoming more materialistic in some ways because possessions are highly visible through advertising and social media.

[EXPLAIN]Explain

Social comparison can make expensive products feel like status symbols rather than simple tools.

[EXAMPLE]Example

People may judge success through cars, phones or designer goods even when those items say little about character.

[EXTEND]Extend

However, many people increasingly value experiences, health and free time, so materialism is growing alongside other definitions of a good life.

Part 3Topic 9 - Shopping & MoneyEasy-Intermediate

What kind of possessions give status to people in your country?

Ở đất nước của bạn, những loại tài sản nào mang lại địa vị cho người dân?

[POINT]Point

In my country, expensive cars, property, luxury watches and some designer products can act as status symbols.

[EXPLAIN]Explain

These possessions stand out because they are visible and clearly connected with high income.

[EXAMPLE]Example

Some people buy premium brands partly because they want others to notice their success.

[EXTEND]Extend

However, trying to keep up with the Joneses can create financial pressure, so status possessions do not necessarily mean that someone is genuinely wealthy or secure.

Part 3Topic 9 - Shopping & MoneyEasy-Intermediate

Has this changed over time?

Liệu điều này đã thay đổi theo thời gian?

[POINT]Point

Yes, the possessions associated with status have changed over time.

[EXPLAIN]Explain

In the past, property ownership, jewellery or large household goods were stronger signs of visible wealth.

[EXAMPLE]Example

Today, technology products, international travel and premium experiences can also signal social position.

[EXTEND]Extend

The exact symbols change as incomes and lifestyles develop, but people still tend to use scarce or expensive possessions to communicate success.

Part 3Topic 9 - Shopping & MoneyEasy-Intermediate

Do young people and old people value the same kinds of possessions?

Liệu người trẻ và người già có coi trọng những loại tài sản giống nhau?

[POINT]Point

Young and older people often value different possessions because their needs and experiences differ.

[EXPLAIN]Explain

Younger people may place more importance on digital devices, fashion or items connected with hobbies, while older people may value practical objects and possessions with sentimental value.

[EXAMPLE]Example

A young adult might save for a new laptop, whereas an older person may treasure family jewellery.

[EXTEND]Extend

There is plenty of overlap, but generational preferences are shaped by technology, income and memories.

Part 3Topic 9 - Shopping & MoneyEasy-Intermediate

Why do you think some people like to collect possessions?

Theo bạn, tại sao một số người lại thích sưu tầm đồ vật?

[POINT]Point

Some people collect possessions because the activity gives them enjoyment, knowledge and a sense of progress.

[EXPLAIN]Explain

A collecting hobby often involves curation, where people carefully choose items that fit a theme rather than buying randomly.

[EXAMPLE]Example

Someone may build up a collection of coins, books or records over many years.

[EXTEND]Extend

Collections can also carry personal meaning because individual objects remind owners of places, people or periods in their lives.

Speaking
Practice

Speaking Part 3

Is society becoming increasingly materialistic?

What kind of possessions give status to people in your country?

Has this changed over time?

Do young people and old people value the same kinds of possessions?

Why do you think some people like to collect possessions?