The topic of describing a building you would like to visit is a common one in IELTS Speaking tests. It has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to continue being a popular choice for examiners. This topic allows candidates to showcase their vocabulary, fluency, and ability to express personal preferences while discussing architecture and travel.
Describe a famous tourist attraction you would like to explore is a related topic that can help you prepare for this question as well.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, the examiner may ask you some general questions about buildings and architecture. Here’s an example question with a suggested answer:
Q: Do you have a favorite type of building?
A: Absolutely. I’m particularly fascinated by historical buildings, especially those with Gothic architecture. The intricate details and towering spires of Gothic cathedrals never fail to take my breath away. I find the way they blend form and function to be truly awe-inspiring.
Part 2: Long Turn
Here’s a sample cue card for this topic:
Describe a building you would like to visit
You should say:
- What the building is
- Where it is located
- What it looks like
- And explain why you would like to visit this building
Sample Answer (Band 6-7):
I’d like to talk about the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, which is currently the tallest building in the world. It’s located in the heart of Dubai, in the United Arab Emirates. The Burj Khalifa is an impressive sight, standing at over 828 meters tall with more than 160 floors. It has a sleek, modern design with a spiral shape that tapers as it reaches towards the sky.
I’m really interested in visiting this building because I’ve always been fascinated by skyscrapers and architectural marvels. The Burj Khalifa is not just tall, but it also has many interesting features, like the world’s highest outdoor observation deck and the fastest elevators. I think it would be an unforgettable experience to go to the top and see the panoramic views of Dubai and the surrounding desert.
Additionally, I’m curious about the engineering challenges that were overcome to build such a tall structure. It must have required incredible planning and innovation. Visiting the Burj Khalifa would allow me to appreciate the achievements of modern architecture and engineering firsthand.
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
I’d be delighted to describe the awe-inspiring Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Spain. This architectural masterpiece, designed by the renowned Antoni Gaudí, is a prime example of Catalan Modernism and has been under construction for over a century.
The Sagrada Familia is strategically situated in the Eixample district of Barcelona, serving as the focal point of the city’s skyline. Its most striking feature is undoubtedly its soaring spires, which are adorned with intricate sculptures and mosaics. The façade is a mesmerizing blend of Gothic and Art Nouveau styles, with organic forms inspired by nature seamlessly integrated into the stonework.
What sets this basilica apart is its unique fusion of religious symbolism and naturalistic elements. Gaudí’s innovative design incorporates tree-like columns, spiral staircases reminiscent of seashells, and stained-glass windows that create a kaleidoscope of colors inside the building.
I’m particularly eager to visit the Sagrada Familia because it represents the pinnacle of Gaudí’s architectural genius. The opportunity to witness firsthand the culmination of over 130 years of meticulous craftsmanship is truly once-in-a-lifetime. Moreover, I’m fascinated by the way the building continues to evolve, with modern architects and artisans staying true to Gaudí’s original vision while incorporating contemporary techniques.
Exploring the Sagrada Familia would allow me to immerse myself in a living piece of history and gain a deeper appreciation for the intersection of art, faith, and engineering. It’s not just a building, but a testament to human creativity and perseverance that I believe would leave an indelible impression on me.
Follow-up Questions:
- How long do you think it would take to explore the entire building?
- What do you think is the most challenging aspect of maintaining such a unique structure?
Sample Answers:
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(Band 6-7) I think it would take several hours to explore the Sagrada Familia thoroughly. There’s so much to see, both inside and outside. You’d need time to look at all the details and maybe take a guided tour to learn about the history and symbolism.
(Band 8-9) Given the sheer scale and intricacy of the Sagrada Familia, I’d estimate that a comprehensive exploration would require the better part of a day. To truly do justice to Gaudí’s masterpiece, one would need to allocate time for examining the exterior facades, ascending the towers for panoramic views, marveling at the light-filled interior, and perhaps participating in an in-depth guided tour to fully appreciate the symbolism and architectural innovations.
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(Band 6-7) I think the biggest challenge would be keeping the building clean and fixing any damage. With so many visitors, there’s probably a lot of wear and tear. Also, protecting the delicate parts of the building from weather and pollution must be difficult.
(Band 8-9) The most formidable challenge in maintaining the Sagrada Familia likely lies in striking a delicate balance between preservation and progress. The ongoing construction means constantly integrating new elements while ensuring they harmonize with the existing structure. Additionally, safeguarding the intricate stonework and delicate stained glass from environmental factors and the impact of mass tourism requires meticulous care and cutting-edge conservation techniques.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Q: How do you think modern buildings differ from those built in the past?
A: (Band 6-7) Modern buildings are very different from old ones. They often use new materials like steel and glass, which weren’t available in the past. Modern buildings are usually taller and can have more unusual shapes. They also have better technology inside, like elevators and air conditioning. Old buildings, on the other hand, often used more traditional materials like stone and wood. They were usually shorter and had simpler designs.
A: (Band 8-9) The distinctions between modern and historical buildings are manifold and reflect the evolution of both technology and societal needs. Modern architecture frequently embraces avant-garde designs, utilizing cutting-edge materials such as reinforced concrete, smart glass, and innovative alloys. These advancements allow for unprecedented heights and daring structural forms that would have been inconceivable in earlier eras.
Moreover, contemporary buildings are often designed with sustainability in mind, incorporating energy-efficient systems, green spaces, and recyclable components. In contrast, historical buildings typically showcase the craftsmanship of their time, with hand-carved details and locally-sourced materials. While they may lack the technological sophistication of modern structures, they often possess a timeless aesthetic and cultural significance that contemporary architecture strives to emulate.
Q: Do you think it’s important for cities to preserve old buildings?
A: (Band 6-7) Yes, I think it’s very important to preserve old buildings. They help us remember our history and show us how people lived in the past. Old buildings often have beautiful designs that add character to a city. They can also attract tourists, which is good for the local economy. However, it can be expensive to maintain old buildings, so cities need to find a balance between preserving the past and developing for the future.
A: (Band 8-9) Preserving historical architecture is, in my opinion, paramount for maintaining the cultural fabric and unique identity of cities. These buildings serve as tangible links to our past, offering invaluable insights into the social, economic, and artistic aspects of previous generations. They contribute significantly to the aesthetic diversity of urban landscapes, often providing a refreshing counterpoint to the homogeneity of modern developments.
Furthermore, the conservation of heritage structures can have substantial economic benefits, fostering cultural tourism and enhancing property values in surrounding areas. However, I acknowledge that preservation efforts must be balanced with the practicalities of urban development and the need for modernization. The key lies in finding innovative ways to repurpose and integrate historical buildings into the contemporary urban context, thereby ensuring their relevance and continued contribution to the city’s vitality.
Describe a city you would like to explore on foot is another topic that can help you practice discussing urban environments and architecture.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases
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Architectural marvel /ˌɑːrkɪˈtektʃərəl ˈmɑːrvəl/ (noun phrase): A building or structure that is exceptionally impressive in its design and construction.
Example: The Eiffel Tower is considered an architectural marvel of the 19th century. -
Iconic /aɪˈkɒnɪk/ (adjective): Very famous or popular, especially being considered to represent particular opinions or a particular time.
Example: The Sydney Opera House is an iconic symbol of Australia. -
Aesthetic /esˈθetɪk/ (adjective): Concerned with beauty or the appreciation of beauty.
Example: The building’s aesthetic appeal lies in its clean lines and minimalist design. -
Skyline /ˈskaɪlaɪn/ (noun): The outline or silhouette of buildings or land against the sky.
Example: The skyscrapers of New York City create a breathtaking skyline. -
To blend in with (phrasal verb): To match or harmonize with the surroundings.
Example: The new museum was designed to blend in with the historic buildings around it.
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test when describing a building:
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Prepare a diverse vocabulary related to architecture and buildings. This will help you express your ideas more precisely and impressively.
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Practice describing buildings in your area, focusing on their appearance, history, and your personal opinions about them.
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Use a variety of sentence structures to demonstrate your language proficiency. Mix simple and complex sentences, and use appropriate linking words.
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Show enthusiasm in your voice and manner when talking about the building. This can positively impact your fluency and pronunciation scores.
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Be ready to expand on your answers, especially in Parts 2 and 3. Provide reasons, examples, and personal experiences to support your points.
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Stay on topic but be prepared to discuss related themes, such as urban planning, cultural preservation, or tourism.
By following these tips and regularly practicing your speaking skills, you can improve your performance and confidence in the IELTS Speaking test.
Describe a famous tourist spot you would like to visit is another related topic that can help you practice describing interesting locations and your reasons for wanting to visit them.