Introduction
The EIKEN Pre-1 speaking test can feel challenging, but practicing with real sample topics makes a huge difference. In this blog post, you’ll find 15 practice speaking topics, each with a short sample monologue and 3 follow-up opinion questions. These will help you practice giving clear, structured answers and prepare for the actual exam.
1. Should governments increase taxes on unhealthy foods to improve public health?
Monologue:
I believe governments should increase taxes on unhealthy foods. Many people eat too much fast food and junk food, which leads to health problems like obesity and diabetes. If unhealthy foods become more expensive, people may choose healthier options. In the long run, this could reduce medical costs for society.
Questions:
- Do you think price is the most important factor when people choose food?
- Should schools play a bigger role in teaching students about healthy eating?
- How can people be encouraged to cook more meals at home?
2. Do the benefits of space exploration outweigh the costs?
Monologue:
I think the benefits of space exploration outweigh the costs. Exploring space has led to new technologies like satellites, which we use every day for communication and weather forecasting. It also inspires people to study science and think about the future. Even though it is expensive, the knowledge and technology gained are very valuable.
Questions:
- Should governments or private companies lead space exploration?
- Is it more important to solve problems on Earth than to explore space?
- Do you think humans will live on another planet in the future?
3. Should university education be free for everyone?
Monologue:
I believe university education should be free. Many talented students cannot afford tuition fees, and society loses their potential. Free education would give equal opportunities to everyone and help create a more skilled workforce. Of course, it would require higher taxes, but the long-term benefits are worth it.
Questions:
- Should students be responsible for paying at least part of their education costs?
- Is higher education more important than work experience?
- How could governments pay for free university education?
4. Can artificial intelligence create more problems than it solves?
Monologue:
In my opinion, artificial intelligence can create more problems than it solves. While AI can make tasks easier and faster, it also takes jobs away from people. There are also risks of mistakes and bias in AI systems. Without proper regulation, AI could harm society more than it helps.
Questions:
- Do you think AI will replace teachers in the future?
- Should governments control how companies use AI?
- Can AI be trusted to make important decisions?
5. Should countries depend more on renewable energy even if it is more expensive?
Monologue:
Yes, I think countries should depend more on renewable energy even if it is more expensive. Fossil fuels cause pollution and climate change, which are serious global problems. Renewable energy may cost more now, but in the future, it will become cheaper and more sustainable. Protecting the environment is worth the investment.
Questions:
- Do you think individuals can help reduce energy problems in daily life?
- Should governments give financial support to renewable energy companies?
- Is nuclear power a good alternative to fossil fuels?
6. Is globalization helping or harming local cultures?
Monologue:
I believe globalization is harming local cultures. Many young people around the world now wear the same clothes, listen to the same music, and eat the same food. As a result, traditional customs and languages are disappearing. While globalization has economic benefits, it also reduces cultural diversity.
Questions:
- Do you think tourism helps preserve or damage local traditions?
- Should schools teach more about traditional culture?
- Is it possible to balance globalization and cultural preservation?
7. Should the use of plastic be strictly banned in daily life?
Monologue:
I think plastic should not be completely banned but should be reduced. Plastic is convenient and useful in medicine and packaging, but it creates too much waste and pollution. Instead of banning it, we should recycle more and develop eco-friendly materials. A balanced approach is better than a total ban.
Questions:
- Should governments force companies to reduce plastic packaging?
- Do you think individuals are willing to change their habits for the environment?
- What alternatives to plastic are realistic?
8. Do you think social media has a positive or negative influence on young people?
Monologue:
I think social media has a mostly negative influence on young people. It can connect friends, but many teenagers spend too much time online and feel pressure to look perfect. Cyberbullying is also a serious issue. Young people would be healthier if they used social media less.
Questions:
- Should parents limit their children’s use of social media?
- Can social media be used effectively for education?
- Do you think social media helps people become more creative?
9. Should governments spend more money on the arts?
Monologue:
Yes, I think governments should spend more money on the arts. Art and culture make society richer and inspire creativity. Supporting museums, theaters, and music programs can also improve education. Even though some people think money should go to basic needs, the arts are also essential for human development.
Questions:
- Do you think art is as important as science and technology?
- Should artists receive government support if their work is unpopular?
- How does art improve people’s lives?
10. Does modern technology make people more isolated?
Monologue:
In my opinion, modern technology does make people more isolated. Many people spend more time on their phones than talking face-to-face. While technology connects us online, it can reduce real-life communication. If this continues, society may become less personal and more lonely.
Questions:
- Should schools teach students how to communicate face-to-face better?
- Is it possible to have deep friendships online?
- How can technology be used to strengthen real communities?
11. Should people be required to do volunteer work in their communities?
Monologue:
I think people should not be required, but encouraged, to do volunteer work. Volunteering is valuable because it helps communities and teaches responsibility. However, if it becomes mandatory, people may not do it sincerely. Volunteering should come from the heart, not from a law.
Questions:
- Should high schools require students to do volunteer work before graduation?
- Is volunteer work more valuable than donating money?
- How can governments encourage more people to volunteer?
12. Is it fair to use animals for medical experiments?
Monologue:
I don’t think it is fair to use animals for medical experiments. Animals have the right to live without suffering. Although animal testing has helped develop medicines, new technologies like computer models can replace it. We should find humane alternatives to protect both humans and animals.
Questions:
- Should cosmetics companies be banned from testing on animals?
- Are human lives more important than animal lives?
- How can science advance without animal experiments?
13. Do the advantages of studying abroad outweigh the disadvantages?
Monologue:
Yes, I believe the advantages of studying abroad outweigh the disadvantages. Students can experience a new culture, improve their language skills, and become more independent. While it may be expensive and difficult at first, the personal growth and opportunities gained are very valuable.
Questions:
- Should governments give scholarships to students who study abroad?
- Is it better to study abroad at university or high school?
- Can studying abroad change a person’s personality?
14. Should countries accept more immigrants to solve labor shortages?
Monologue:
I think countries should accept more immigrants to solve labor shortages. Many developed countries face aging populations and need more workers. Immigrants can help the economy and bring cultural diversity. Of course, governments must also provide support to help them adapt to society.
Questions:
- Should immigrants be required to learn the local language quickly?
- Do immigrants make a country stronger or weaker?
- What challenges do immigrants face in a new country?
15. Is it better to focus on developing cities or protecting rural communities?
Monologue:
I believe it is better to focus on protecting rural communities. Cities are already developed and receive most of the investment. Rural areas often struggle with aging populations and a lack of services. Supporting them will create balance and keep traditional lifestyles alive.
Questions:
- Should young people be encouraged to move back to rural areas?
- Do you think technology can improve life in the countryside?
- Which is more important for a country: strong cities or strong rural areas?
Conclusion
Practicing these EIKEN Pre-1 speaking topics will help you become more confident in giving structured answers. Remember to:
- State your opinion clearly
- Give 2–3 supporting reasons
- Answer follow-up questions with examples
For more practice, join us at MK’s English for lessons designed to help you pass EIKEN, IELTS, and TOEIC with confidence.