How to Ace Your IELTS Speaking Test: Describing a Famous Building or Monument

As an experienced IELTS Speaking examiner, I’m here to guide you through one of the common topics in the IELTS Speaking test: describing a famous building or monument in your country that tourists visit. This topic frequently appears in Part 2 of the Speaking test and can also lead to related questions in Parts 1 and 3. Let’s explore how to tackle this topic effectively and achieve a high band score.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In Part 1, the examiner may ask you some general questions about buildings or monuments. Here are some possible questions and sample answers:

Sample Question 1: Are there many famous buildings in your country?

Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, there are quite a few famous buildings in my country. We have some historical landmarks and modern structures that attract a lot of tourists.

Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely! My country boasts a diverse array of famous buildings, ranging from ancient temples and colonial-era structures to cutting-edge skyscrapers. These architectural marvels not only showcase our rich history but also reflect our rapid modernization.

Sample Question 2: Do you think it’s important to preserve old buildings?

Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I think it’s important to preserve old buildings because they help us understand our history and culture. They also make our cities more interesting.

Band 8-9 Answer:
I firmly believe that preserving old buildings is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, these structures serve as tangible links to our past, offering invaluable insights into our cultural heritage and architectural evolution. Moreover, they contribute significantly to the unique character and aesthetic appeal of our urban landscapes, often becoming iconic symbols that attract tourism and foster a sense of local pride.

Famous buildings and monuments

Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)

Here’s a sample cue card related to the topic:

Describe a famous building or monument in your country that tourists visit.
You should say:

• What it is
• Where it is located
• What it looks like
• And explain why it is famous and popular among tourists

Sample Answer (Band 6-7):

I’d like to talk about the Hoan Kiem Lake, which is a famous landmark in Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam. It’s located in the heart of the city and is easy to find.

The lake is quite big and has green water. In the middle of the lake, there’s a small island with a tower called the Turtle Tower. Around the lake, there are many trees and benches where people can sit and relax.

Hoan Kiem Lake is famous because it has a lot of history. There’s a legend about a golden turtle in the lake that took back a magic sword from a Vietnamese king. This story is very important in Vietnamese culture.

Tourists like to visit Hoan Kiem Lake because it’s beautiful and peaceful. They can take nice photos, especially of the red bridge that leads to a temple on another small island. Many people also come to exercise or enjoy the cool air in the early morning or evening.

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):

I’d like to draw your attention to one of the most iconic landmarks in Vietnam – the Hoan Kiem Lake, situated in the heart of Hanoi, our bustling capital city. This picturesque lake serves as a focal point for both locals and tourists alike.

The lake stretches over an area of approximately 12 hectares, boasting jade-green waters that reflect the surrounding cityscape. Its most striking feature is undoubtedly the Turtle Tower, a small yet majestic structure perched on an islet in the center of the lake. The shoreline is adorned with ancient trees, their gnarled branches providing welcome shade to visitors.

Hoan Kiem Lake’s fame stems from its rich historical and cultural significance. It’s steeped in legend, particularly the tale of Emperor Le Loi, who supposedly returned a magical sword to the Golden Turtle God in these waters. This mythical association has cemented the lake’s place in Vietnamese folklore and national identity.

The lake’s popularity among tourists can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, its central location makes it an ideal starting point for exploring Hanoi’s Old Quarter. The lake also offers a tranquil respite from the city’s frenetic pace, with its serene atmosphere attracting early morning Tai Chi practitioners and evening strollers alike. The photogenic Huc Bridge, a vibrant red wooden structure leading to Ngoc Son Temple, provides stunning photo opportunities, especially during sunset. Furthermore, the lake hosts various cultural events throughout the year, offering visitors a glimpse into local traditions and festivities.

Follow-up Questions:

1. How has this monument changed over the years?

Band 6-7 Answer:
The area around Hoan Kiem Lake has changed a lot. There are now more shops and cafes near the lake. The government has also made efforts to keep the lake clean and beautiful.

Band 8-9 Answer:
Over the years, Hoan Kiem Lake has undergone significant transformations while maintaining its historical essence. The surrounding area has seen extensive urban development, with the proliferation of modern cafes, boutiques, and hotels. However, concerted efforts have been made to preserve the lake’s natural beauty and cultural significance. The local authorities have implemented strict conservation measures, including regular water quality checks and the restoration of historical structures like the Turtle Tower and Huc Bridge. Moreover, the pedestrianization of nearby streets during weekends has enhanced the area’s appeal, creating a more visitor-friendly environment that harmoniously blends tradition with modernity.

2. What are some challenges in maintaining such historic sites?

Band 6-7 Answer:
Maintaining historic sites like Hoan Kiem Lake can be challenging. It’s expensive to keep everything in good condition. Also, many tourists visiting can sometimes cause damage. Balancing preservation with development is also difficult.

Band 8-9 Answer:
The maintenance of historic sites like Hoan Kiem Lake poses numerous challenges. Firstly, there’s the constant battle against environmental factors such as pollution and natural weathering, which can deteriorate structures and alter the ecosystem. Secondly, the influx of tourists, while economically beneficial, can lead to accelerated wear and tear. There’s also the delicate balance to strike between preservation and modernization – updating facilities to meet contemporary standards without compromising the site’s authenticity. Furthermore, securing adequate funding for ongoing maintenance and restoration projects can be problematic, especially when competing with other urban development priorities. Lastly, there’s the challenge of raising awareness and fostering a sense of responsibility among both locals and visitors to protect and respect these cultural treasures.

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

In Part 3, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some possible questions and sample answers:

Question 1: How do famous monuments contribute to a country’s identity?

Band 6-7 Answer:
Famous monuments are important for a country’s identity because they show its history and culture. They make the country unique and give people a sense of pride. Tourists also recognize countries by their famous monuments.

Band 8-9 Answer:
Famous monuments play a pivotal role in shaping a country’s identity. They serve as tangible representations of a nation’s history, cultural values, and artistic achievements. These landmarks often become symbolic icons, instantly recognizable worldwide and synonymous with the country itself – think of the Eiffel Tower for France or the Taj Mahal for India. Moreover, they foster a sense of national pride and unity among citizens, providing a shared cultural touchstone. From an international perspective, these monuments act as ambassadors, attracting global attention and often driving tourism, thus contributing to both the country’s soft power and economic development. They also offer insights into a nation’s architectural prowess and technological capabilities of different eras, showcasing the evolution of the country through time.

Question 2: Do you think it’s better to invest in preserving old monuments or building new ones?

Band 6-7 Answer:
I think it’s important to do both. Preserving old monuments is necessary to keep our history alive. But building new ones can show our country’s progress and give us new symbols. It depends on the needs of each place.

Band 8-9 Answer:
This is a complex issue that requires careful consideration of various factors. On one hand, preserving old monuments is crucial for maintaining our cultural heritage and historical continuity. These structures often hold immense cultural and educational value, providing tangible links to our past and attracting cultural tourism.

On the other hand, constructing new monuments can be seen as an investment in the future, reflecting contemporary values and achievements, and potentially becoming the heritage of tomorrow. New monuments can also incorporate modern sustainable technologies and serve multiple functions in urban planning.

Ideally, a balanced approach would be most beneficial. This could involve allocating resources to both preservation and new construction, with the distribution depending on each country’s specific context, including its historical wealth, current needs, and future aspirations. It’s also worth considering that innovative restoration projects can sometimes bridge this divide, breathing new life into old structures while respecting their historical integrity.

Ultimately, the goal should be to create a harmonious blend of old and new that tells the ongoing story of a nation’s cultural evolution.

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

1. Iconic landmark [aɪˈkɒnɪk ˈlændmɑːk] (noun phrase): A very famous place that represents a city or country.
   Example: The Statue of Liberty is an iconic landmark of New York City.

2. Steeped in history [stiːpt ɪn ˈhɪstəri] (idiom): Having a lot of historical importance or association.
   Example: The ancient city of Rome is steeped in history.

3. Architectural marvel [ˌɑːkɪˈtektʃərəl ˈmɑːvəl] (noun phrase): A building that is exceptionally beautiful or impressive in its design.
   Example: The Sagrada Familia in Barcelona is considered an architectural marvel.

4. Cultural heritage [ˈkʌltʃərəl ˈherɪtɪdʒ] (noun phrase): The legacy of physical artifacts and intangible attributes of a group or society.
   Example: UNESCO works to protect sites of cultural heritage around the world.

5. To preserve [tə prɪˈzɜːv] (verb): To maintain something in its original or existing state.
   Example: It’s important to preserve historical buildings for future generations.

Tips from an IELTS Examiner

1. Practice describing various monuments: Familiarize yourself with different types of buildings and monuments in your country and around the world. This will help you speak more confidently about architectural features and historical significance.

2. Use a range of vocabulary: Incorporate descriptive adjectives and specific architectural terms to make your description more vivid and precise.

3. Structure your answer: In Part 2, use the cue card prompts to organize your thoughts. Start with a brief introduction, then address each point in order.

4. Provide reasons and examples: Especially in Part 3, support your opinions with logical reasons and concrete examples to demonstrate critical thinking.

5. Practice speaking for 2 minutes: For Part 2, time yourself to ensure you can speak for the full 2 minutes without repetition or hesitation.

Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is not just about knowing the answers, but about expressing yourself clearly, confidently, and coherently. Regular practice and expanding your vocabulary will help you achieve a higher band score.

For more tips on describing places and answering questions about famous spots in your country, you might find these resources helpful:

• Describe a place in your country that you think should be preserved
• Describe a famous tourist spot in your city
• Describe a famous historical monument from your country

Good luck with your IELTS preparation!