This post contains ideas and band-9 sample answers (audio included) for the Cambridge IELTS 10 Academic Speaking Part 1 Question 2 Test 4 question:
“What do you like about your secondary/high school? [Why?]”
Sample 1
What I really appreciate about my secondary school is the emphasis it placed on innovation. Being encouraged to think outside the box and approach problems from novel angles really stimulated my creativity. This innovative approach not only made my studies more interesting but also prepared me for the fast-paced and ever-changing world we live in.
Sample 2
The most appealing aspect of my high school was undoubtedly the wide array of extracurricular activities on offer. Be it drama, sports, debate, or music, there was something for everyone. The school administration fostered an environment that encouraged us to explore our interests beyond the academic curriculum. It was a great way to learn new skills, make friends, and build confidence.
Sample 3
The teachers at my high school were incredibly dedicated. They would go above and beyond to ensure that we understood the material, and were always available for extra guidance. Their passion for teaching and commitment to our education truly made my high school years memorable.
Sample 4
The rigorous curriculum at my high school is what I admire the most. It was challenging but in a good way. It pushed me to stretch my boundaries and fostered a sense of resilience. I believe this rigorous approach to education equipped me with the necessary skills to thrive in my future academic endeavors.
Sample 5
The thing I genuinely enjoyed about my high school days was the dual-natured relationship I shared with my friends. They were friendly, always there to provide support when needed, but they were equally competitive. This unique blend of camaraderie and competitiveness made our academic journey exciting, enriching, and memorable.
Sample 6
I truly appreciated the eco-friendly environment at my high school. The campus was green and vibrant, which made it a joy to spend time there. Moreover, the school was equipped with modern facilities, which contributed to a productive learning environment.
Sample 7
To tell you the truth, my high school felt like a pressure cooker. The constant emphasis on grades and performance made the environment incredibly stressful. This tension made it challenging for me to find any aspects of the school that I could enjoy.
Sample 8
If I’m to be candid, there’s not much I appreciated about my high school. The curriculum was theory-centric, with minimal exposure to real-world experiences. This lack of practical application was something I found limiting, as I firmly believe in the importance of experiential learning.
Sample 9
Honestly, my secondary education was rather dull and monotonous. The routine was so predictable that it lacked any element of surprise or excitement. It was like being on a treadmill, constantly running but never really getting anywhere. This sameness made it extremely difficult for me to find any aspect of it enjoyable.
Sample 10
Honestly, my high school days don’t bring back fond memories. I had a tough time keeping up with the academic pace, often finding myself lagging behind my peers. This constant battle with learning made it difficult for me to find any enjoyment in my high school experience.




