Mastering IELTS Speaking: How to Describe a Famous Building You Visited

The topic of describing a famous building is a common one in IELTS Speaking tests. It has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to continue being a popular subject in future tests. This topic allows examiners to assess candidates’ ability to describe physical structures, express personal opinions, and discuss cultural significance.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about buildings and architecture. Here are some potential questions:

1. Do you have a favorite building in your hometown?
2. What type of architecture do you prefer?
3. Are there any famous buildings in your country?

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

Examiner: Do you have a favorite building in your hometown?

Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I do. My favorite building in my hometown is the central library. It’s quite old but has a unique design with tall columns and a large dome. I like it because it’s a quiet place where I can study and read books.

Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely! My favorite building in my hometown is undoubtedly the central library. It’s a magnificent piece of architecture that dates back to the early 20th century. What I find particularly captivating about it is its blend of classical and modern elements – the imposing Corinthian columns at the entrance juxtaposed with the sleek glass dome that crowns the building. Not only is it aesthetically pleasing, but it also serves as a hub of knowledge and culture for our community.

Part 2: Long Turn

Here’s a sample cue card related to describing a famous building:

Describe a famous building you visited

You should say:

• What the building was
• Where it was located
• When you visited it
• And explain why you think this building is famous

Band 6-7 Answer:
I’d like to talk about the Taj Mahal, which I visited last year. It’s located in Agra, India. The Taj Mahal is a beautiful white marble building that was built as a tomb. I went there during my summer vacation with my family.

The building is really impressive because of its size and the detailed carvings on the walls. The gardens around it are also very beautiful. I think it’s famous because of its unique architecture and the love story behind it. It was built by an emperor for his wife, which makes it special.

Many tourists from all over the world come to see the Taj Mahal. It’s considered one of the wonders of the world. I enjoyed my visit there and took many photos to remember it.

The Taj Mahal in India

Band 8-9 Answer:
I’d be delighted to describe the Taj Mahal, an architectural marvel I had the privilege of visiting last year. This iconic mausoleum is situated in Agra, India, on the right bank of the Yamuna River. My visit coincided with the winter season, which I found to be an ideal time as the weather was pleasantly cool and the crowds were relatively smaller.

The Taj Mahal is renowned worldwide for several compelling reasons. Firstly, its sheer aesthetic beauty is breathtaking. The symmetry of its design, the intricate marble inlay work, and the way it seems to change color throughout the day are truly awe-inspiring. The pristine white marble gleams in the sunlight, creating an almost ethereal effect.

Secondly, the building’s historical and cultural significance cannot be overstated. It stands as a testament to the Mughal era’s architectural prowess and serves as a symbol of eternal love. Emperor Shah Jahan commissioned it in memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal, making it not just a tomb, but a monumental expression of devotion.

Furthermore, the Taj Mahal’s fame stems from its remarkable engineering feats. The techniques used in its construction, such as the self-correcting minaret design and the intricate water cooling system, were far ahead of their time. It’s also environmentally responsive – the building subtly changes its mood to match the sky’s color and light intensity.

Visiting the Taj Mahal was a profoundly moving experience. Standing before it, I was struck by its timeless beauty and the depth of emotion it embodies. It’s not merely a famous building; it’s a cultural icon that continues to captivate and inspire millions of visitors from around the globe.

Follow-up questions:

1. How did you feel when you first saw the building?
2. Would you recommend others to visit this building? Why or why not?

Band 6-7 Answer for question 1:
When I first saw the Taj Mahal, I felt really amazed. It was bigger and more beautiful than I had imagined from pictures. I remember feeling excited and happy to be there in person.

Intricate details inside the Taj Mahal

Band 8-9 Answer for question 1:
When I first laid eyes on the Taj Mahal, I was absolutely awestruck. The sheer grandeur and elegance of the structure left me speechless. There was an overwhelming sense of wonder and reverence, as if I was witnessing a piece of history come to life. The way the sunlight played on the white marble created an almost ethereal glow, enhancing its beauty beyond what I had seen in photographs or documentaries. It was a truly humbling experience that stirred a deep appreciation for both the architectural mastery and the profound love story behind its creation.

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

Examiner: Do you think the government should spend money preserving old buildings?

Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I think the government should spend money on preserving old buildings. These buildings are important parts of our history and culture. They can teach us about how people lived in the past and about different architectural styles. Also, many old buildings are beautiful and can attract tourists, which can be good for the economy.

Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely, I believe it’s crucial for governments to allocate funds for the preservation of historic buildings. These structures are not merely bricks and mortar; they are tangible links to our past and integral components of our cultural heritage. Preserving them serves multiple purposes:

Firstly, it allows us to maintain a physical connection with history, providing invaluable insights into the architectural techniques, societal values, and artistic expressions of bygone eras. This continuity with the past is essential for fostering a sense of national identity and cultural pride.

Secondly, well-preserved historical buildings often become significant tourist attractions, contributing substantially to the local and national economy. They can revitalize urban areas, creating jobs and stimulating economic growth in the surrounding communities.

Moreover, from an environmental perspective, restoring and repurposing old buildings is often more sustainable than demolishing them and constructing new ones. It reduces waste and can be more energy-efficient in the long run.

However, it’s important to strike a balance. While preservation is vital, it shouldn’t come at the expense of addressing other pressing societal needs. Governments need to allocate resources judiciously, ensuring that preservation efforts are part of a broader strategy for cultural and economic development.

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

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

2. Iconic [aɪˈkɒnɪk] (adjective): Very famous or popular, especially being considered to represent particular opinions or a particular time.
   Example: The Eiffel Tower is an iconic symbol of Paris.

3. Awe-inspiring [ɔː ɪnˈspaɪərɪŋ] (adjective): Causing feelings of great admiration or respect, often combined with wonder or fear.
   Example: The Grand Canyon’s vast expanse is truly awe-inspiring.

4. Cultural heritage [ˈkʌltʃərəl ˈherɪtɪdʒ] (noun phrase): The legacy of physical artifacts and intangible attributes of a group or society that are inherited from past generations.
   Example: The ancient city of Rome is a treasure trove of cultural heritage.

5. Timeless beauty [ˈtaɪmləs ˈbjuːti] (noun phrase): A quality of attractiveness that doesn’t diminish over time.
   Example: The Parthenon in Athens exemplifies timeless beauty in classical architecture.

Examiner’s Advice

To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test when describing a famous building:

1. Use a wide range of vocabulary related to architecture and emotions.
2. Provide detailed descriptions, including visual aspects and historical significance.
3. Express your personal opinions and feelings about the building.
4. Use complex sentence structures and idiomatic expressions where appropriate.
5. Practice describing different types of buildings to improve your fluency and confidence.

Remember, the key to success is not just knowing what to say, but how to say it effectively and naturally. Regular practice with a variety of topics will help you develop the skills needed to excel in the IELTS Speaking test. Additionally, expanding your knowledge about different types of natural places can help you draw interesting comparisons between man-made structures and natural wonders.