The topic “describe a natural wonder you want to see” is a popular one in IELTS Speaking tests, particularly in Part 2. It allows candidates to showcase their descriptive language skills, vocabulary related to nature and travel, and ability to express personal preferences. This topic has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to remain relevant in future tests.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, the examiner may ask some general questions about natural wonders and travel preferences. Here’s an example question with a suggested answer:
Examiner: Do you enjoy visiting natural wonders?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“Absolutely! I find natural wonders utterly captivating. There’s something awe-inspiring about witnessing the raw power and beauty of nature. Whether it’s a majestic waterfall or a vast canyon, these sights never fail to leave me speechless. I believe that experiencing natural wonders broadens our perspective and helps us appreciate the incredible diversity of our planet.”
Part 2: Long Turn
Here’s a sample cue card for this topic:
Describe a natural wonder you want to see
You should say:
- What it is
- Where it is located
- How you learned about it
- Why you want to see it
And explain how you plan to visit this natural wonder.
Sample answer (Band 6-7):
“I’d like to talk about the Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis. It’s a spectacular natural phenomenon that occurs in the polar regions. The Northern Lights are most commonly seen in countries like Norway, Iceland, and Canada.
I first learned about the Northern Lights through documentaries and social media posts. The images of colorful lights dancing across the night sky really caught my attention and made me want to see them in person.
The main reason I want to see the Northern Lights is because of their unique beauty. It’s not something you can see just anywhere, and I think witnessing such a rare natural event would be a truly unforgettable experience.
As for my plans to visit, I’m considering a trip to Tromsø, Norway, which is known as one of the best places to see the Northern Lights. I plan to go during the winter months when the nights are longest, giving me the best chance to see this amazing spectacle. I’ll make sure to book a guided tour with experts who can take me to the best viewing spots and explain the science behind this natural wonder.”
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I’m absolutely fascinated by the idea of witnessing the Aurora Borealis, commonly known as the Northern Lights. This mesmerizing natural phenomenon occurs in the polar regions, painting the night sky with vibrant hues of green, pink, and purple.
The Northern Lights are primarily visible in the Arctic Circle, with some of the most renowned viewing locations being in Norway, Iceland, and parts of Canada. I’ve been captivated by this spectacle ever since I stumbled upon a National Geographic documentary that vividly portrayed the ethereal beauty of the auroras. Subsequently, I’ve delved into scientific articles and travel blogs to gain a deeper understanding of this celestial display.
The allure of the Northern Lights lies in their ephemeral nature and otherworldly appearance. The idea of standing beneath a canopy of dancing lights, witnessing the interplay of solar winds and Earth’s magnetic field, is profoundly appealing to me. It represents a rare confluence of scientific wonder and natural beauty that I believe would be truly awe-inspiring to experience firsthand.
To turn this dream into reality, I’m meticulously planning a trip to Tromsø, Norway, often referred to as the “Aurora Capital of the World.” I intend to visit during the peak viewing season, typically between late September and late March, when the nights are longest. I’m also considering booking a specialized photography tour to capture this celestial spectacle and preserve the memory of this once-in-a-lifetime experience. The prospect of chasing the auroras across the Arctic wilderness, guided by local experts, is incredibly exciting and something I’m eagerly looking forward to.”
Follow-up questions:
- What challenges might you face when trying to see the Northern Lights?
- How do you think seeing natural wonders like the Northern Lights impacts people’s perspective on the environment?
Sample answer for question 1 (Band 8-9):
“The primary challenge in viewing the Northern Lights is their unpredictable nature. Despite careful planning, there’s always an element of chance involved. Factors such as solar activity, cloud cover, and light pollution can significantly impact visibility. Additionally, the extreme cold in Arctic regions during prime viewing seasons can be physically demanding. Patience is crucial, as one might need to spend several nights outdoors waiting for the right conditions. Lastly, the remoteness of ideal viewing locations can present logistical challenges in terms of transportation and accommodation.”
Sample answer for question 2 (Band 8-9):
“I believe that experiencing natural wonders like the Northern Lights can have a profound impact on people’s environmental consciousness. Witnessing such awe-inspiring phenomena firsthand often instills a deep appreciation for the beauty and fragility of our planet. This experience can serve as a powerful catalyst for environmental awareness, prompting individuals to reflect on their own impact on the Earth and potentially inspiring more sustainable lifestyle choices. Moreover, it can foster a sense of global interconnectedness, highlighting how natural processes transcend borders and reminding us of our shared responsibility to protect these wonders for future generations.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Examiner: How do you think tourism to see natural wonders affects local communities?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“Tourism to natural wonders can have both positive and negative effects on local communities. On the positive side, it can boost the local economy by creating jobs in hospitality, tour guiding, and other related industries. It can also promote cultural exchange and help preserve local traditions as communities showcase their heritage to visitors.
However, there are potential drawbacks. Overtourism can lead to environmental degradation if not managed properly. There’s also the risk of local communities becoming overly dependent on tourism, which can be problematic if visitor numbers fluctuate. Additionally, an influx of tourists might lead to increased living costs for locals, potentially pricing them out of their own communities.
To mitigate these issues, it’s crucial to implement sustainable tourism practices that balance economic benefits with environmental and cultural preservation. This could include measures like limiting visitor numbers, promoting eco-friendly accommodations, and ensuring that a significant portion of tourism revenue is reinvested in the local community and conservation efforts.”
Local guide explaining natural wonder to tourists
Examiner: Do you think virtual reality could replace the experience of seeing natural wonders in person?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“While virtual reality (VR) technology has made remarkable strides in recent years, I believe it’s unlikely to fully replace the experience of seeing natural wonders in person. VR can certainly offer an immersive and educational experience, allowing people to explore remote or inaccessible locations from the comfort of their homes. This technology can be particularly valuable for those with physical limitations or financial constraints that prevent them from traveling.
However, there are several aspects of experiencing natural wonders that VR cannot replicate. Firstly, there’s the multi-sensory nature of real-world experiences – the feel of the wind, the scent of the air, or the sound of wildlife – which are integral to fully appreciating these wonders. Secondly, the emotional impact and sense of awe that comes from physically being present in a magnificent natural setting is difficult, if not impossible, to replicate digitally.
Moreover, the journey to these locations often forms a significant part of the overall experience. The anticipation, the cultural interactions, and the personal growth that comes from navigating unfamiliar environments are all valuable aspects that VR cannot provide.
That being said, I believe VR has a complementary role to play. It can serve as an excellent educational tool, raising awareness about natural wonders and potentially inspiring people to visit them in person. It can also help in conservation efforts by reducing physical tourism to fragile ecosystems while still allowing people to appreciate their beauty.
In conclusion, while VR offers exciting possibilities, it’s more likely to enhance and supplement our experiences of natural wonders rather than replace them entirely. The irreplaceable value of authentic, in-person experiences will continue to drive people to seek out these marvels of nature firsthand.”
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
Awe-inspiring /ˈɔː ɪnˌspaɪərɪŋ/ (adjective): Extremely impressive or daunting; inspiring awe.
Example: “The Grand Canyon is an awe-inspiring sight that leaves visitors speechless.”Mesmerizing /ˈmezməraɪzɪŋ/ (adjective): Capturing one’s complete attention as if by magic.
Example: “The mesmerizing dance of the Northern Lights kept us watching for hours.”Ephemeral /ɪˈfem(ə)rəl/ (adjective): Lasting for a very short time.
Example: “The ephemeral nature of the Aurora Borealis makes it all the more special to witness.”To delve into /delv ˈɪntu/ (phrasal verb): To research or examine something thoroughly.
Example: “I’ve been delving into books about natural wonders to prepare for my trip.”Confluence /ˈkɒnflʊəns/ (noun): A coming or flowing together, meeting, or gathering at one point.
Example: “The trip offered a unique confluence of adventure, education, and natural beauty.”
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test when describing a natural wonder:
- Use a wide range of vocabulary, including less common words and phrases related to nature and travel.
- Demonstrate your ability to speak at length by providing detailed descriptions and explanations.
- Use a variety of grammatical structures, including complex sentences.
- Show your ability to express and justify opinions about natural wonders and related topics.
- Practice speaking about different natural wonders to improve fluency and confidence.
Remember, the key to success is not just knowing about the topic, but being able to express your thoughts clearly and coherently. Regular practice and expanding your vocabulary will help you describe a famous tourist attraction you would like to explore or any other natural wonder with confidence and eloquence.