The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about places and architecture in your country. One common topic is describing a place known for its architecture. This article will guide you through answering such questions effectively, with sample answers and expert tips to help you achieve a high band score.

Understanding the Task

Before we dive into the specifics, it’s important to understand what the examiner is looking for when asking about a place known for its architecture. They want to assess your ability to:

• Describe a place in detail
• Use appropriate vocabulary related to architecture and buildings
• Express your opinions and feelings about the place
• Organize your thoughts coherently

Let’s explore how to tackle this topic in each part of the IELTS Speaking test.

IELTS Speaking Test

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In Part 1, you may be asked general questions about architecture and buildings. Here are some possible questions:

1. Do you have a favorite building in your city?
2. What type of architecture do you prefer?
3. Are there any famous buildings in your country?

Let’s look at a sample answer for the first question:

Examiner: Do you have a favorite building in your city?

Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I do. My favorite building in my city is the main public library. It’s a large, modern structure with glass walls and an interesting design. I like it because it looks unique and it’s a great place to study.

Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely. My favorite building in the city is undoubtedly the central public library. It’s a striking example of contemporary architecture, featuring expansive glass facades and an innovative, sustainable design. What I find particularly captivating about this structure is its seamless blend of functionality and aesthetic appeal. Not only does it serve as an excellent resource center, but it also enhances the city’s skyline with its distinctive silhouette.

Part 2: Long Turn

For Part 2, you might receive a cue card like this:

Describe a place in your country that is known for its architecture.

You should say:

• Where it is located
• What it looks like
• Why it is famous
• And explain how you feel about this place

Here’s a sample answer:

Band 6-7 Answer:
I’d like to talk about the Taj Mahal, which is located in Agra, a city in northern India. It’s a large white marble building with a big dome and four tall towers at the corners. The Taj Mahal is famous for its beautiful design and is considered one of the wonders of the world. It was built by a Mughal emperor as a tomb for his wife.

The Taj Mahal looks stunning, especially at sunrise and sunset when the marble changes color. Inside, there are intricate carvings and precious stones inlaid in the walls. It’s surrounded by beautiful gardens and reflecting pools.

This place is famous because of its perfect symmetry and the love story behind its construction. It’s also an important part of Indian history and attracts millions of visitors every year.

I feel amazed every time I see pictures of the Taj Mahal. It’s incredible to think about the skill and dedication it took to build such a beautiful structure hundreds of years ago. I hope to visit it someday and see its beauty in person.

Band 8-9 Answer:
I’d be delighted to describe the Taj Mahal, an architectural marvel situated in Agra, a historic city in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. This iconic mausoleum stands as a testament to Mughal architecture and is universally acknowledged as one of the most exquisite examples of Indo-Islamic design.

The Taj Mahal is a colossal structure primarily constructed of pristine white marble. Its most distinguishing feature is the large, bulbous central dome, flanked by four slender minarets at each corner of the platform. The entire complex is meticulously symmetrical, a hallmark of Mughal architecture. The façade is adorned with intricate calligraphy and floral motifs, inlaid with semi-precious stones in a technique known as pietra dura.

This architectural wonder gained its fame not only for its breathtaking beauty but also for the poignant love story behind its creation. Emperor Shah Jahan commissioned it as a mausoleum for his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal. The Taj Mahal is also renowned for its perfect proportions, innovative construction techniques, and the way it harmoniously blends various architectural styles.

Personally, I find the Taj Mahal utterly captivating. Its sheer grandeur and the intricacy of its designs never fail to leave me in awe. What I find particularly fascinating is how the structure seems to change its hues with the shifting light of the day, appearing almost ethereal at dawn and dusk. The Taj Mahal, to me, represents the pinnacle of architectural achievement and serves as a powerful symbol of India’s rich cultural heritage.

Follow-up Questions

Examiner: How has modern architecture in India been influenced by traditional designs?

Band 6-7 Answer:
Modern architecture in India has been influenced a lot by traditional designs. Many new buildings use elements from old temples and palaces, like domes and arches. Architects also try to include traditional patterns and materials in their designs. This helps to keep the Indian identity in new buildings while making them modern and functional.

Band 8-9 Answer:
The influence of traditional designs on modern Indian architecture is profound and multifaceted. Contemporary architects in India are increasingly striving to create a harmonious fusion between age-old architectural principles and cutting-edge design concepts. This synthesis is evident in the incorporation of traditional elements such as courtyard layouts, jaali work (intricate latticed screens), and climate-responsive features into modern structures.

Moreover, there’s a growing trend of reinterpreting classical motifs and spatial arrangements in a contemporary context. For instance, the concept of ‘vastu shastra’, an ancient Indian system of architecture, is being adapted to suit modern building needs. This blending of old and new not only preserves cultural continuity but also addresses current environmental and social concerns, resulting in architecture that is both rooted in tradition and forward-looking in its approach.

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

In Part 3, the examiner might ask more abstract questions related to architecture and its impact on society.

Examiner: How do you think architecture influences a city’s identity?

Band 6-7 Answer:
I think architecture plays a big role in shaping a city’s identity. Unique buildings can make a city stand out and be easily recognizable. For example, when people see the Eiffel Tower, they immediately think of Paris. Architecture can also reflect a city’s history and culture. Old buildings show how people lived in the past, while new, modern structures can show that a city is progressive and forward-thinking.

Band 8-9 Answer:
Architecture, in my opinion, is intrinsically linked to a city’s identity and plays a pivotal role in shaping its character. Iconic structures often become synonymous with their cities, serving as visual shorthand for the urban landscape. Take, for instance, the way the Sydney Opera House instantly evokes the essence of Sydney, or how the ancient Acropolis embodies the historical significance of Athens.

Moreover, architecture functions as a tangible reflection of a city’s cultural values, historical evolution, and aspirations. Preserved historical districts provide a window into the past, fostering a sense of continuity and heritage. Conversely, avant-garde designs and sustainable building practices can signal a city’s commitment to innovation and environmental responsibility.

The interplay between architectural styles within a cityscape can also create a unique visual narrative. Cities that successfully balance preservation and modernization often develop a rich, layered identity that is both deeply rooted in its past and enthusiastically embracing the future. This architectural diversity not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of a city but also contributes to its cultural vibrancy and economic vitality, often becoming a draw for tourism and investment.

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

To achieve a high band score, it’s crucial to use a range of sophisticated vocabulary and phrases. Here are some key terms related to architecture:

1. Architectural marvel /ˌɑːkɪˈtektʃərəl ˈmɑːvəl/ (noun phrase): A building or structure that is exceptionally impressive or ingenious in design.
   Example: The Sagrada Familia in Barcelona is considered an architectural marvel.

2. Iconic /aɪˈkɒnɪk/ (adjective): Very famous or popular, especially being considered to represent particular opinions or a particular time.
   Example: The Burj Khalifa has become an iconic symbol of Dubai’s skyline.

3. Façade /fəˈsɑːd/ (noun): The front of a building, especially an impressive front.
   Example: The intricate façade of the Notre-Dame Cathedral is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture.

4. Symmetry /ˈsɪmətri/ (noun): The quality of being made up of exactly similar parts facing each other or around an axis.
   Example: The perfect symmetry of the Taj Mahal contributes to its breathtaking beauty.

5. Sustainable design /səˈsteɪnəbl dɪˈzaɪn/ (noun phrase): An approach to design that focuses on reducing negative impacts on the environment.
   Example: Many modern architects prioritize sustainable design in their projects to minimize environmental impact.

Examiner’s Advice

To excel in the IELTS Speaking test when discussing architecture:

1. Prepare a range of vocabulary related to buildings and design. This will help you describe architecture more vividly and accurately.

2. Practice describing buildings in your area. This will help you become more comfortable with the topic.

3. Stay informed about famous architectural sites in your country and around the world. This knowledge can be useful for providing examples.

4. Develop your opinions on different architectural styles. Being able to express and justify your preferences will help in Part 3 discussions.

5. Use linking words to connect your ideas smoothly, especially in the long turn of Part 2.

Remember, the key to success is not just knowing about architecture, but being able to communicate your thoughts clearly and engage in a natural conversation with the examiner.

By following these guidelines and practicing regularly, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle any question about architecture in your IELTS Speaking test. Good luck!

For more IELTS Speaking practice, you might find it helpful to describe a famous historical monument from your country or discuss a place in your country that is famous for its history. These topics often overlap with architectural discussions and can broaden your vocabulary and ideas for the test.