How to Ace Your IELTS Speaking Test: Describing a Park or Garden You’d Love to Visit

The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about places you’d like to visit, including parks and gardens. This topic is popular among examiners as it allows candidates to showcase their descriptive language skills and ability to express personal preferences. Let’s explore how to effectively answer questions related to describing a park or garden you would like to visit.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In Part 1, the examiner may ask some general questions about parks and gardens. Here are some common questions you might encounter:

1. Do you enjoy visiting parks or gardens?
2. How often do you go to parks?
3. What activities do you usually do in parks?
4. Are there any famous parks or gardens in your city?

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

Examiner: Do you enjoy visiting parks or gardens?

Sample Answer (Band 7-8):
“Absolutely! I find parks and gardens to be incredibly rejuvenating. There’s something truly magical about being surrounded by nature, breathing in the fresh air, and taking in the vibrant colors of flowers and trees. I particularly appreciate the tranquility these spaces offer, especially as a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether it’s for a leisurely stroll or a quiet spot to read a book, I always feel refreshed and reinvigorated after spending time in a park or garden.”

IELTS Speaking: Describing a park or garden

Part 2: Long Turn

Here’s a sample cue card for the long turn section:

Describe a park or garden you would like to visit.
You should say:

• Where it is located
• How you learned about this park or garden
• What special features it has
• And explain why you would like to visit this park or garden

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):

“I’ve always been captivated by the idea of visiting the Gardens by the Bay in Singapore. This world-renowned attraction is located in the heart of Singapore, adjacent to the Marina Reservoir. I first came across this breathtaking garden complex while browsing through a travel magazine, and I was instantly mesmerized by its futuristic design and lush greenery.

What sets this garden apart are its unique and awe-inspiring features. The most iconic structures are undoubtedly the Supertrees – colossal vertical gardens that tower up to 50 meters high. These architectural marvels are not only visually stunning but also serve practical purposes, housing diverse species of plants and acting as environmental engines for the gardens.

Another highlight is the Cloud Forest conservatory, a mist-filled glasshouse featuring the world’s tallest indoor waterfall. The Flower Dome, the largest glass greenhouse globally, showcases an ever-changing display of flowers and plants from Mediterranean and semi-arid regions.

I’m particularly drawn to this garden because it represents a perfect fusion of nature and technology. The way it harmoniously blends cutting-edge sustainable architecture with diverse plant life is truly inspiring. As someone who’s passionate about both environmental conservation and innovative design, I believe visiting Gardens by the Bay would be an enlightening and awe-inspiring experience.

Moreover, I’m intrigued by how the garden embodies Singapore’s vision of becoming a ‘City in a Garden’. It’s not just a tourist attraction but a living example of how urban areas can coexist with and enhance natural spaces. I’m eager to explore its various themed gardens, learn about its sustainable practices, and immerse myself in its serene yet vibrant atmosphere.

In essence, Gardens by the Bay represents the pinnacle of modern garden design and sustainable urban planning, making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the future of green spaces in cities.”

Describe an online video in which you learned something new can be a great way to prepare for other types of descriptive tasks in the IELTS Speaking test.

Follow-up Questions:

1. How do you think this garden contributes to the local community?
2. What challenges might the managers of such a large garden face?

Sample Answer for Question 1 (Band 8-9):
“I believe Gardens by the Bay plays a crucial role in enhancing the local community in multiple ways. Firstly, it serves as an educational hub, offering visitors, especially students, a unique opportunity to learn about diverse plant species and ecosystems. This fosters environmental awareness and can inspire a new generation of conservationists.

Secondly, it significantly boosts tourism, which in turn stimulates the local economy. The influx of visitors creates job opportunities, not just within the garden complex but also in related sectors like hospitality and transportation.

Moreover, it provides a vital green space for residents, promoting physical and mental well-being. In a densely populated city like Singapore, having access to such a vast, beautiful garden can greatly improve quality of life, offering a place for relaxation, exercise, and community gatherings.

Lastly, the garden sets a benchmark for sustainable urban development, potentially influencing future city planning projects. It demonstrates how cities can integrate large-scale green spaces, which could inspire similar initiatives elsewhere, contributing to a greener, more livable urban environment overall.”

Aerial view of Gardens by the Bay in Singapore

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

In Part 3, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some examples:

1. How do you think urban parks contribute to city life?
2. What are some challenges in maintaining public gardens in cities?
3. How might parks and gardens evolve in the future with advancing technology?

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

Examiner: How might parks and gardens evolve in the future with advancing technology?

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“The future evolution of parks and gardens with advancing technology is an intriguing prospect that could revolutionize our interaction with green spaces. I envision several key areas where technology could make a significant impact.

Firstly, smart irrigation systems utilizing AI and IoT sensors could optimize water usage, ensuring plants receive precisely what they need while conserving this precious resource. This would be particularly crucial in regions facing water scarcity.

Secondly, augmented reality (AR) could transform educational experiences in gardens. Visitors could use their smartphones or AR glasses to access real-time information about plants, their origins, and care instructions, making learning more interactive and engaging.

Vertical and rooftop gardens might become more prevalent, especially in urban areas, thanks to advancements in hydroponic and aeroponic technologies. These systems could allow for year-round cultivation of a wide variety of plants, even in harsh climates.

Biotechnology could play a role in developing plants that are more resilient to climate change, pests, and diseases. This could help maintain biodiversity and ensure the longevity of gardens in changing environmental conditions.

Lastly, robotics might be employed for maintenance tasks like pruning, weeding, and monitoring plant health, allowing human staff to focus on more complex aspects of garden management and visitor experience.

However, it’s crucial to strike a balance between technological integration and preserving the natural essence of these spaces. The ultimate goal should be to enhance our connection with nature, not to replace it with artificial experiences. As technology evolves, I believe the challenge will be to use it in ways that complement and showcase the natural beauty of parks and gardens, rather than overshadowing it.”

Describe an interesting talk you heard recently could provide insights into effective speaking techniques that can be applied to various topics, including describing parks and gardens.

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

1. Rejuvenating /rɪˈdʒuːvəneɪtɪŋ/ (adj): Giving new energy or vigor to something
   Example: The park’s serene atmosphere has a rejuvenating effect on visitors.

2. Tranquility /træŋˈkwɪləti/ (n): The quality or state of being calm
   Example: The Japanese garden offers a sense of tranquility in the midst of the busy city.

3. Awe-inspiring /ˈɔː ɪnˌspaɪərɪŋ/ (adj): Causing feelings of awe or admiration
   Example: The Supertrees at Gardens by the Bay are truly awe-inspiring structures.

4. Harmoniously /hɑːˈməʊniəsli/ (adv): In a way that forms a pleasing or consistent whole
   Example: The modern architecture blends harmoniously with the natural landscape.

5. Embody /ɪmˈbɒdi/ (v): To represent or express (an idea, quality, or feeling) in a tangible or visible form
   Example: This park embodies the city’s commitment to sustainable urban development.

Describe a recent sports event you watched can help you practice using descriptive language that can be applied to various topics, including parks and gardens.

Examiner’s Advice

To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test when describing parks or gardens:

1. Use a wide range of vocabulary related to nature, architecture, and urban planning.
2. Provide specific details and examples to support your descriptions.
3. Express your opinions clearly and justify them with logical reasoning.
4. Use complex sentence structures and appropriate linking words to enhance coherence.
5. Show awareness of broader issues related to parks and gardens, such as environmental conservation and urban development.
6. Practice describing different types of parks and gardens to improve your fluency and vocabulary range.

Remember, the key to success is not just knowing what to say, but how to say it effectively. Regular practice and expanding your vocabulary will help you become more confident and articulate in your responses.

Describe a movie that made you emotional can help you practice expressing feelings and emotions, which can be useful when describing your reactions to parks or gardens.

IELTS Speaking practice session

By following these guidelines and practicing regularly, you’ll be well-prepared to discuss parks, gardens, and related topics in your IELTS Speaking test. Remember to speak naturally and confidently, and don’t be afraid to express your personal opinions and experiences. Good luck with your IELTS preparation!