Topic: Jokes and humor in IELTS Speaking Part 1 | IELTS Speaking Part 1 Sample

Questions for the topic of jokes and humor in IELTS Speaking Part 1

1. Do you enjoy listening to and telling jokes?
2. How do you decide which jokes are suitable to share with friends?
3. How can jokes be offensive to someone?
4. In what situations is it considered rude to laugh at a joke?
5. What are some common themes that people like to joke about?
6. Are comedy shows popular in your country?
7. Have you ever attended a live comedy show?
8. Do you consider yourself skilled at telling jokes?

Sample Response (Model Answer)

1. Do you enjoy listening to and telling jokes?

Yes, I do. My friends and I frequently share jokes with each other. Sometimes I come across a funny post on Facebook and send it to them. We're planning to attend a stand-up comedy performance this week.

2. How do you determine which jokes are appropriate to share with friends?

It's hard to say. Since my friends and I share everything and they aren't very sensitive, they laugh along with me most of the time. However, if someone gets upset or sad, then perhaps the joke isn't appropriate. 

3. How can a jest inflict harm on someone?

Well, I suppose if a jest proves insensitive, it can wound the individual. For instance, some acquaintances jest about my weight, and despite laughing along, I find it upsetting.   

4. In what scenarios is it discourteous to chuckle at a jest?

I think there are times when it is impolite to laugh during grave circumstances, such as in a conference. It is also disrespectful to find amusement in insensitive or hurtful jests, particularly those aimed at a group of people. And obviously, when the jest lacks humor.   

5. What are some common themes people enjoy jesting about?

Body image, love life, driving skills, and more. For instance, within my circle of friends, we often joke about past relationships by referring to someone with their ex-partner's name.

6. Are there comedy programs in your country?

There are a few, but I don't follow any. When I was young, my family used to watch a show called “Gap nhau cuoi tuan” (Weekend Gathering). We watched it every Saturday morning. Now we tune in to “Gap nhau cuoi nam” (Year-End Gathering) instead.

7. Have you ever attended a live performance?

Not yet. Attending live performances is beyond my budget. I usually watch livestreams on Youtube or television. My dream is to attend “Gap nhau cuoi nam” with my family someday.

8. Can you tell jokes well?

I believe so. My friends always laugh when I tell jokes. Some even say I’m funny. However, my mom doesn’t like my jokes sometimes, so I'm not sure.

Vocabulary on the topic of Jokes and comedies

• A stand up comedy show: buổi diễn hài độc thoại
• Sensitive: nhạy cảm
• Proper: chỉn chu, phù hợp
• A joke is insensitive: câu đùa nhạy cảm
• Impolite: bất lịch sự
• Serious situations: bối cảnh nghiêm túc
• Rude: thô lỗ
• Body image: ngoại hình
• to tease: trêu chọc