Describing a building you visited as a child is a common topic in IELTS Speaking tests, particularly in Part 2. This theme allows candidates to showcase their vocabulary, memory recall, and ability to structure a coherent narrative. Let’s explore how to excel in this task and achieve a high band score.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, the examiner may ask some general questions about buildings or childhood memories. Here are some possible questions and a sample answer:
- “Do you like visiting old buildings?”
- “What types of buildings are popular in your country?”
- “Do you prefer modern or traditional architecture?”
Let’s focus on answering the first question:
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“Yes, I’m quite fond of visiting old buildings. There’s something fascinating about stepping into a place with a rich history. I find that historic structures often have unique architectural features and intricate details that modern buildings lack. Plus, exploring these places gives me a sense of connection to the past, which I find both educational and enjoyable.”
Describe a place in your country that holds special memories for you could be a related topic that you might encounter in the IELTS Speaking test. It’s essential to be prepared for various themes that revolve around places and memories.
Part 2: Long Turn
Here’s a sample cue card for this topic:
Describe a building you visited as a child
You should say:
- What the building was
- Where it was located
- Why you visited it
- How you felt about the building
Sample answer (Band 6-7):
“I’d like to talk about a building I visited as a child – it was my grandparents’ old farmhouse. The house was located in the countryside, about an hour’s drive from my hometown. It was a two-story wooden structure with a large porch and a red roof.
We used to visit this farmhouse during summer vacations. My parents thought it was important for us kids to spend time with our grandparents and experience rural life. I remember being excited every time we planned a trip there.
The building itself was quite simple, but it had a charm of its own. I loved the creaky wooden floors and the smell of freshly baked bread that always seemed to fill the house. The large kitchen was my favorite part, where my grandmother would teach me how to make cookies.
I felt a strong connection to this building. It represented family, fun, and freedom to me. Even though it wasn’t as modern or comfortable as our house in the city, I always looked forward to our visits. The farmhouse held so many happy memories for me, and I felt sad when my grandparents eventually sold it.”
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to describe an extraordinary building I visited as a child – the majestic Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris. This architectural marvel is situated on the Île de la Cité, right in the heart of the French capital.
My family and I visited this iconic structure during a summer vacation when I was about ten years old. The primary purpose of our visit was to immerse ourselves in the rich history and stunning beauty of this world-renowned landmark.
Upon first sight, I was utterly awestruck by the cathedral’s imposing facade with its intricate Gothic details. The towering spire and twin bell towers seemed to touch the sky, making me feel incredibly small in comparison. As we entered, I remember being enveloped by a sense of reverence and wonder.
The interior was equally breathtaking. The soaring vaulted ceilings, magnificent rose windows, and the play of light through the stained glass created an almost ethereal atmosphere. I was particularly captivated by the enormous pipe organ and the resonant echoes of its music throughout the vast space.
This visit left an indelible impression on my young mind. It sparked a lifelong interest in architecture and history, and instilled in me a deep appreciation for cultural heritage. Even now, years later, I can vividly recall the sense of awe and inspiration I felt standing within those ancient walls. The Notre-Dame Cathedral truly epitomized the power of human creativity and devotion, and visiting it was a transformative experience that I’ll always cherish.”
Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris: A Childhood Visit
Follow-up questions:
- “How has the building changed since your childhood visit?”
- “Do you think it’s important to preserve old buildings? Why or why not?”
Sample answer for question 1 (Band 8-9):
“Since my childhood visit, Notre-Dame Cathedral has undergone significant changes, most notably due to the devastating fire in 2019. This catastrophic event caused extensive damage to the roof and spire, necessitating a massive restoration project. The ongoing reconstruction efforts aim to preserve the cathedral’s historical integrity while incorporating modern safety features. Despite these challenges, the fundamental structure and much of the invaluable artwork within the cathedral have been preserved, ensuring that future generations can still experience its magnificence. The restoration process itself has become a testament to human resilience and our commitment to preserving cultural heritage.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In this part, the examiner might ask more abstract questions related to buildings and architecture. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:
- “How do you think architecture influences a city’s identity?”
- “What role do historic buildings play in modern society?”
- “Should governments invest more in preserving old buildings or constructing new ones?”
Let’s focus on the second question:
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“Historic buildings play a crucial role in modern society. They serve as tangible links to our past, helping us understand our cultural heritage and the evolution of architectural styles. These structures often become iconic landmarks that define a city’s skyline and attract tourists, contributing to the local economy.
Moreover, historic buildings can inspire contemporary architects to blend traditional elements with modern designs, creating unique and harmonious urban landscapes. They also provide valuable insights into sustainable building practices, as many old structures have stood the test of time without relying on modern technology.
However, preserving these buildings can be challenging and expensive. There’s often a debate between maintaining historical authenticity and adapting the buildings for modern use. Despite these challenges, I believe the cultural and educational value of historic buildings makes their preservation worthwhile.”
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“Historic buildings play a multifaceted and indispensable role in modern society. Firstly, they serve as tangible repositories of our collective heritage, offering invaluable insights into the social, cultural, and technological evolution of our civilization. These architectural treasures embody the zeitgeist of their respective eras, allowing us to trace the trajectory of human progress and creativity through time.
Moreover, historic structures often function as focal points of cultural identity and civic pride. They imbue cities with a unique character and sense of place, distinguishing them from the homogeneous urban landscapes that can result from ubiquitous modern construction. This distinctiveness not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of our environments but also fosters a deeper connection between residents and their surroundings.
From an economic perspective, historic buildings can be significant drivers of tourism and urban regeneration. When thoughtfully restored and repurposed, they can catalyze economic development in their neighborhoods, attracting businesses, residents, and visitors alike. The adaptive reuse of these structures also aligns with sustainable development goals, as it often requires less energy and resources than new construction.
However, it’s crucial to acknowledge that preserving historic buildings presents complex challenges. Balancing authenticity with modern safety standards and functionality requires careful consideration and often substantial investment. Despite these hurdles, I believe the myriad benefits that historic buildings bring to our societies – from cultural enrichment and educational value to economic revitalization and environmental sustainability – make their preservation not just worthwhile, but essential for creating vibrant, diverse, and meaningful urban environments.”
Historic Building in Modern Cityscape
Describe a place you have visited that is affected by air pollution is another topic that might come up in IELTS Speaking, especially when discussing urban development and its impact on historic buildings.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
To achieve a high band score, it’s essential to use a range of sophisticated vocabulary and complex sentence structures. Here are some key terms and phrases that can elevate your response:
Architectural marvel /ˌɑːkɪˈtektʃərəl ˈmɑːvəl/ (noun phrase): A building or structure that is exceptionally impressive or ingenious in design.
Example: “The ancient temple was an architectural marvel, showcasing advanced engineering techniques far ahead of its time.”Awestruck /ˈɔːstrʌk/ (adjective): Filled with wonder and amazement.
Example: “I was completely awestruck by the intricate details of the cathedral’s facade.”Ethereal /ɪˈθɪəriəl/ (adjective): Extremely delicate and light in a way that seems not to be of this world.
Example: “The soft light filtering through the stained glass windows created an ethereal atmosphere inside the church.”Indelible impression /ɪnˈdelɪbl ɪmˈpreʃn/ (noun phrase): A lasting mark or effect.
Example: “Visiting the ancient ruins left an indelible impression on my young mind.”To epitomize /ɪˈpɪtəmaɪz/ (verb): To be a perfect example of something.
Example: “The grand palace epitomized the wealth and power of the monarchy during that era.”Zeitgeist /ˈzaɪtɡaɪst/ (noun): The defining spirit or mood of a particular period of history as shown by the ideas and beliefs of the time.
Example: “The brutalist architecture of the building captured the zeitgeist of the post-war era.”
Tips from an Examiner
As an IELTS examiner, I recommend the following strategies to excel in the Speaking test:
Practice regularly: Engage in daily speaking exercises, perhaps by describing buildings or places you encounter.
Expand your vocabulary: Learn new words related to architecture and emotions, and practice using them in context.
Use a variety of sentence structures: Mix simple and complex sentences to demonstrate your language proficiency.
Develop your ideas: Don’t just list facts; explain your thoughts and feelings in detail.
Stay relevant: Always keep the question in mind and ensure your answer addresses all parts of it.
Use personal experiences: Incorporating personal anecdotes can make your responses more engaging and authentic.
Work on pronunciation and fluency: Clear pronunciation and natural flow are crucial for a high score.
Listen carefully: Make sure you understand the question fully before answering.
Remember, describing a memorable trip you took with your family could be a related topic that allows you to practice similar language skills and storytelling techniques.
By following these guidelines and continuously practicing, you can significantly improve your performance in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when describing buildings or places from your childhood.