When it comes to IELTS Speaking, describing an interesting website you like to visit is a common topic that candidates may encounter. This article will guide you through effective strategies to excel in this task, providing sample answers and expert tips to help you achieve a high band score.
Describe a place that you discovered recently can be similar to describing a website, as both involve sharing your experiences and impressions of new discoveries. Let’s dive into the specifics of how to approach the website description task in your IELTS Speaking exam.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about websites and internet usage. Here are some potential questions and a sample answer:
Sample Question: “How often do you visit websites?”
Band 6-7 Answer:
“I visit websites quite frequently, probably several times a day. I mainly use them for work, study, and entertainment purposes.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“I’d say I’m constantly browsing various websites throughout the day. Whether it’s for professional research, academic pursuits, or simply unwinding with some leisurely reading, I find myself turning to the internet for a wide array of information and resources.”
Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)
Cue Card:
Describe an interesting website you like to visit.
You should say:
- What the website is
- How you found out about it
- What features it has
- And explain why you find it interesting
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to talk about a fascinating website called Atlas Obscura, which I absolutely adore visiting. I initially stumbled upon this gem of a site while researching off-the-beaten-path travel destinations for a trip I was planning last year.
Atlas Obscura is essentially a collaborative database of the world’s most unusual and awe-inspiring places, objects, and phenomena. What sets it apart is its focus on the bizarre, mysterious, and overlooked aspects of our planet that you won’t find in typical travel guides.
The website boasts several captivating features. Firstly, it has an interactive world map where users can explore thousands of hidden wonders across the globe. Each entry comes with detailed descriptions, stunning photographs, and often, intriguing historical background. Additionally, there’s a community aspect where travelers can contribute their own discoveries, making it a constantly evolving repository of knowledge.
What I find particularly interesting about Atlas Obscura is how it ignites curiosity and encourages exploration. It’s not just about famous landmarks; it’s about uncovering the extraordinary in the ordinary. For instance, I’ve learned about a tree that owns itself in Georgia, USA, and a museum dedicated to broken relationships in Croatia. These quirky discoveries never fail to spark my imagination and broaden my perspective on the world.
Moreover, the site’s well-crafted articles and engaging storytelling make even the most obscure topics utterly captivating. It’s a perfect blend of education and entertainment, often leaving me with a sense of wonder and a renewed appreciation for the diversity of our planet.
In essence, Atlas Obscura has become my go-to source for intellectual stimulation and travel inspiration. It continually reminds me that there’s always something new and extraordinary to discover, no matter how well-traveled one might be.”
Atlas Obscura website homepage
Follow-up Questions:
- How often do you visit this website?
- Has this website influenced your travel plans in any way?
Sample Answers (Band 8-9):
“I find myself gravitating towards Atlas Obscura at least a few times a week. It’s become something of a ritual for me, especially when I need a mental break from work or study. The site’s endless array of fascinating content means I’m always discovering something new, which keeps me coming back regularly.”
“Absolutely! Atlas Obscura has fundamentally altered my approach to travel planning. Instead of focusing solely on popular tourist destinations, I now actively seek out the unusual and overlooked gems in any location I visit. For instance, on a recent trip to Paris, alongside visiting the Eiffel Tower, I made a point to explore the city’s underground ossuaries, which I learned about through the website. This off-the-beaten-path approach has enriched my travel experiences immensely, allowing me to see destinations from a unique perspective.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Sample Questions and Answers:
Q: How do you think websites will evolve in the future?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“I think websites will become more interactive and personalized in the future. They might use artificial intelligence to provide better user experiences.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“I believe we’re on the cusp of a significant transformation in website design and functionality. In the near future, we’re likely to see an unprecedented level of personalization, with websites leveraging advanced AI and machine learning algorithms to tailor content, layout, and even functionality to individual users’ preferences and behavior patterns.
Moreover, I anticipate a shift towards more immersive experiences, possibly incorporating virtual and augmented reality elements. This could revolutionize how we interact with online content, making it more engaging and interactive than ever before.
Additionally, with the growing emphasis on data privacy, we might see websites adopting more transparent and user-centric approaches to data collection and usage. This could lead to the development of new standards and technologies that give users greater control over their online experiences.”
Futuristic website design concept
Q: What impact do you think social media websites have had on society?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“Social media websites have changed how people communicate. They’ve made it easier to stay in touch with friends and family, but they can also be addictive and sometimes spread false information.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“The impact of social media websites on society has been profound and multifaceted. On one hand, these platforms have revolutionized communication, enabling instant global connectivity and fostering communities that transcend geographical boundaries. They’ve become powerful tools for social activism, giving voice to marginalized groups and facilitating grassroots movements.
However, the pervasive influence of social media has also introduced significant challenges. There’s growing concern about its role in the spread of misinformation and the creation of echo chambers that can polarize public opinion. Moreover, the addictive nature of these platforms has raised questions about their impact on mental health and social interactions.
Perhaps most significantly, social media has fundamentally altered the way we consume and share information, blurring the lines between personal and public spheres. This has led to complex debates about privacy, data ownership, and the ethical responsibilities of tech companies.
In essence, while social media has undoubtedly brought numerous benefits, it has also sparked a re-evaluation of our relationship with technology and its role in shaping societal norms and individual behaviors.”
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
Collaborative database /kəˈlæbərətɪv ˈdeɪtəbeɪs/ (noun phrase): A collection of information that multiple users can contribute to and access.
Example: “Wikipedia is a prime example of a collaborative database.”Off-the-beaten-path /ɒf ðə ˈbiːtn pɑːθ/ (adjective): Unusual or remote; not frequently visited by tourists.
Example: “We prefer exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations to avoid crowds.”Ignite curiosity /ɪɡˈnaɪt ˌkjʊəriˈɒsəti/ (verb phrase): To stimulate a strong desire to know or learn something.
Example: “Good teachers know how to ignite curiosity in their students.”Intellectual stimulation /ˌɪntəˈlektʃuəl ˌstɪmjuˈleɪʃn/ (noun phrase): The act of engaging or exciting the mind.
Example: “Reading diverse literature provides excellent intellectual stimulation.”Unprecedented level /ʌnˈpresɪdentɪd ˈlevl/ (adjective + noun): A degree or extent never experienced or known before.
Example: “The pandemic brought about an unprecedented level of global cooperation in vaccine development.”
Tips from an IELTS Examiner
Practice describing websites you frequently visit. Focus on articulating their features, benefits, and why you find them interesting.
Develop a rich vocabulary related to technology, internet, and website design. This will help you express your ideas more precisely.
Work on your fluency by regularly discussing technology-related topics with others or recording yourself speaking about websites.
Prepare examples and anecdotes about how websites have impacted your life or society in general. These personal touches can make your answers more engaging.
Stay updated on current trends in web design and digital technology. This knowledge can be particularly useful in Part 3 discussions.
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Speaking is not just about what you say, but how you say it. Aim for clarity, coherence, and confidence in your delivery.
How to describe a place you like to spend weekends at in IELTS Speaking can provide additional insights into descriptive techniques that can be applied to website descriptions as well. By mastering these skills, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle a wide range of topics in your IELTS Speaking exam.