How to practice: This set collects only the Interactive Speaking question type from the real DET (Duolingo English Test) — DET Speaking questions. No grading, no timer — solve it yourself, then tap each question to reveal the answer or model response.
Morgan — You are talking with Morgan, an education researcher who is studying learning styles and education systems around the world. Morgan will ask you about your own experiences with learning and your opinions on education.
Turn 1
“Hi! I'm studying how people learn best. Can you tell me — do you think you learn better when you listen to explanations, or when you read on your own, or maybe by doing something hands-on?”
Useful Expressions
hands-on learning · reading for foundations · applying knowledge · learning by doing
Show Model Response
Hi Morgan! That's a really interesting question. Thinking about how I learn best, I'd say I'm most effective when I can combine reading with hands-on practice. Reading helps me understand the concepts and gives me a solid foundation, but I really only feel like I've truly learned something when I can apply it to a real task or problem. For example, when I was learning a new language, studying grammar rules helped me understand the structure, but I made the most progress by actually using the language in conversations. Listening to explanations is also helpful, but I tend to forget information quickly unless I follow up by doing something with it.
Turn 2
“That makes sense. Do you think the way you were taught in school matched the way you learn best?”
Useful Expressions
traditional teaching · passive learning · project-based work · student-centered approach
Show Model Response
Honestly, not always. The school system I went through was fairly traditional — the teacher would explain things, we would take notes, and then we would be tested on what we memorized. For some subjects, like history or biology, that approach worked reasonably well. But for subjects that required problem-solving or creativity, I often felt like the teaching method was a bit too passive. I would have benefited from more opportunities to work on real projects, have discussions, or solve practical problems rather than just preparing for standardized tests. I think many students have similar experiences, which is why there is growing interest in more student-centered approaches to teaching.
Turn 3
“If you could design your ideal school or learning environment, what would it look like?”
Useful Expressions
student voice · small class sizes · project-based learning · supportive environment
Show Model Response
My ideal learning environment would be a place where students have a say in what they study and how they demonstrate their knowledge. I imagine smaller class sizes where teachers can give each student more individual attention. There would be a mix of structured lessons for building foundational knowledge and open-ended project time where students pursue topics they are genuinely curious about. Technology would be used thoughtfully — not as a replacement for teachers, but as a tool for accessing resources and collaborating with peers around the world. Most importantly, the environment would be supportive and low-pressure, where making mistakes is seen as a natural part of learning rather than something to be ashamed of.
Turn 4
“Interesting. Do you think education systems today do a good job of preparing young people for the real world?”
Useful Expressions
academic foundations · life skills · financial literacy · future readiness
Show Model Response
I think education systems do some things well but fall short in other important areas. Schools are generally effective at building foundational academic knowledge in areas like reading, mathematics, and science. However, many systems do not spend enough time on skills that are critical for adult life, such as financial literacy, communication, problem-solving, and emotional intelligence. I also think schools could do more to help students understand their own strengths and interests so they can make informed decisions about their futures. The world is changing rapidly, and education systems need to be more flexible and forward-looking to truly prepare young people for the challenges and opportunities ahead.
Turn 5
“What do you think is the most important quality of a good teacher?”
Useful Expressions
teacher-student connection · genuine care · inspire curiosity · relevant learning
Show Model Response
If I had to choose one quality, I would say the most important quality in a teacher is the ability to genuinely care about and connect with their students as individuals. Teaching is fundamentally a relationship, and students learn best from teachers who believe in their potential, take the time to understand their challenges, and create an environment where they feel respected and valued. Beyond that connection, great teachers are also skilled at making complex ideas understandable and at inspiring curiosity. They find ways to make learning relevant to students' lives, which naturally increases motivation and engagement. Knowledge of the subject matter is of course important, but without that human connection, even the most knowledgeable teacher may struggle to reach their students.
Turn 6
“Last question — do you think learning stops when you graduate, or is it something that should continue throughout life?”
Useful Expressions
lifelong learning · continuous development · adaptability · personal growth
Show Model Response
Absolutely, learning should continue throughout life — and I think the most successful and fulfilled people are those who never stop being curious and open to new ideas. Graduating from school is a milestone, but it is really just the beginning of a lifelong learning journey. The world changes constantly, and the skills and knowledge that are valuable today may be quite different from what will be needed in ten or twenty years. People who commit to continuously developing themselves — whether through reading, taking courses, learning from colleagues, or pursuing new experiences — are much better equipped to adapt and thrive. I also believe that learning enriches life beyond professional success. It keeps the mind active, broadens our perspectives, and helps us become more empathetic and understanding people.
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