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 your ability to describe architectural features, express personal preferences, and discuss cultural significance.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask you general questions about buildings and architecture. Here’s an example question with a suggested answer:
Question: Do you have a favorite type of building?
Sample Answer (Band 7-8):
Yes, I’m particularly fond of historical buildings, especially those from the Renaissance period. I find their intricate designs and rich history fascinating. For instance, I’m captivated by the elaborate frescoes and grand domes often found in churches from that era. These structures not only showcase incredible craftsmanship but also offer a glimpse into the past, which I find both educational and inspiring.
Part 2: Long Turn
Cue Card:
Describe a famous building you would like to see.
You should say:
- What the building is
- Where it is located
- What it looks like
- And explain why you would like to see this building
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
The famous building I would love to see is the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Spain. This architectural marvel has been under construction for over a century and is considered Antoni Gaudí’s magnum opus.
Located in the heart of Barcelona, the Sagrada Familia dominates the city skyline with its towering spires and unique silhouette. Its exterior is a mesmerizing blend of Gothic and Art Nouveau styles, featuring intricate facades adorned with symbolic sculptures and ornaments.
The building’s most striking features are its soaring towers, each dedicated to religious figures. When completed, it will have 18 spires, with the tallest reaching a height of 172 meters, making it one of the tallest church buildings in the world.
What fascinates me most about the Sagrada Familia is its interior. I’ve seen photographs of the breathtaking forest-like columns that support the ceiling, branching out like trees. The way Gaudí incorporated natural forms into the architecture is simply awe-inspiring. The stained-glass windows are another highlight, designed to bathe the interior in a kaleidoscope of colors as sunlight filters through.
I’m eager to see this building because it represents the pinnacle of human creativity and perseverance. The fact that generations of architects and craftsmen have worked on this project, staying true to Gaudí’s original vision, is remarkable. It’s not just a religious structure; it’s a testament to human ambition and artistic expression.
Moreover, as someone who describes a museum you visited and enjoyed, I believe experiencing the Sagrada Familia would be like stepping into a living museum of architecture. It would be an opportunity to witness history in the making, as this monumental project nears its completion after more than a century.
The majestic Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Spain
Follow-up Questions:
- How long do you think it would take to fully appreciate this building?
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
To truly appreciate the Sagrada Familia, I believe one would need at least a full day, if not more. The sheer scale and intricacy of the building demand time for careful observation. I’d want to explore every nook and cranny, from the symbolic sculptures on the facades to the mesmerizing play of light through the stained-glass windows inside. Additionally, I’d be keen to learn about its history and the ongoing construction process, perhaps through a guided tour or by visiting the on-site museum. Architecture of this caliber deserves more than just a cursory glance; it requires time for reflection and absorption of its artistic and cultural significance.
- Do you think modern buildings can be as impressive as historical ones?
Sample Answer (Band 7-8):
Absolutely. While historical buildings have their unique charm and cultural significance, modern architecture has its own merits that can be equally, if not more, impressive. Contemporary buildings often push the boundaries of engineering and design, incorporating cutting-edge technologies and sustainable practices that weren’t available in the past. For instance, structures like the Burj Khalifa in Dubai or the Bird’s Nest in Beijing showcase remarkable feats of engineering and innovative design concepts. Moreover, modern architecture often prioritizes functionality and efficiency alongside aesthetics, creating spaces that are not only visually striking but also highly practical and adaptable to current needs. That said, I believe the most impressive buildings, whether modern or historical, are those that harmoniously blend form and function, leaving a lasting impact on their surroundings and the people who experience them.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Question: How do you think architecture influences a city’s identity?
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
Architecture plays a pivotal role in shaping a city’s identity, acting as a visual representation of its history, culture, and aspirations. Iconic buildings often become symbols of their cities, such as the Eiffel Tower for Paris or the Sydney Opera House for Sydney. These structures not only define the skyline but also embody the spirit of the place.
Moreover, architectural styles can reflect different periods of a city’s development, creating a tangible timeline of its evolution. For instance, cities like Rome or Istanbul showcase layers of history through their diverse architectural heritage, from ancient ruins to medieval churches and modern skyscrapers.
The choices made in urban planning and architecture also influence the way people interact with their environment. A city with wide boulevards and grand public buildings might evoke a sense of grandeur and formality, while one with narrow, winding streets and intimate plazas might foster a more communal atmosphere.
Furthermore, contemporary architectural projects can signal a city’s ambitions and values. For example, cities investing in sustainable, green buildings demonstrate a commitment to environmental responsibility, while those preserving historical structures show respect for their heritage.
In essence, architecture serves as the physical embodiment of a city’s narrative, continuously shaping and reflecting its identity through time.
Juxtaposition of modern and historical architecture in a city skyline
Question: Do you think it’s important for a country to preserve its traditional architecture?
Sample Answer (Band 7-8):
Yes, I believe preserving traditional architecture is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it helps maintain a country’s cultural heritage and identity. Traditional buildings are physical representations of a nation’s history, values, and way of life, serving as tangible links to the past.
Secondly, traditional architecture often embodies sustainable practices that have evolved over centuries to suit local climates and available resources. In an era of increasing environmental concern, these time-tested methods can offer valuable insights for modern sustainable design.
Moreover, preserved traditional buildings can boost tourism, as many travelers are drawn to authentic cultural experiences. This can provide economic benefits to local communities and incentivize further preservation efforts.
However, it’s important to strike a balance between preservation and progress. While maintaining traditional architecture is valuable, cities also need to evolve and adapt to changing needs. The challenge lies in integrating old and new harmoniously, creating urban landscapes that honor the past while embracing the future.
An excellent example of this balance can be seen in cities that have successfully described a scenic place you have visited, where traditional architecture is often a key component of the overall aesthetic appeal.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
Architectural marvel (/ˌɑːrkɪˈtektʃərəl ˈmɑːrvəl/) – A building or structure that is exceptionally beautiful or impressive.
Example: The Taj Mahal is widely regarded as an architectural marvel.Dominate the skyline (/ˈdɒmɪneɪt ðə ˈskaɪlaɪn/) – To be the most noticeable or prominent feature of a city’s outline against the sky.
Example: The Eiffel Tower dominates the Parisian skyline.Mesmerizing blend (/ˈmezməraɪzɪŋ blend/) – A captivating combination of elements.
Example: The building’s facade is a mesmerizing blend of traditional and modern designs.Awe-inspiring (/ɔː ɪnˈspaɪərɪŋ/) – Extremely impressive or daunting; inspiring great admiration.
Example: The Grand Canyon’s vast expanse is truly awe-inspiring.Pinnacle of human creativity (/ˈpɪnəkl əv ˈhjuːmən kriːeɪˈtɪvɪti/) – The highest point or most successful example of human inventiveness and imagination.
Example: Leonardo da Vinci’s works are often considered the pinnacle of human creativity during the Renaissance.
Tips from an IELTS Speaking Examiner
Practice describing buildings in detail: Focus on structure, materials, style, and unique features. This will help you develop a rich vocabulary for architectural descriptions.
Develop personal opinions: Don’t just describe what you see. Explain why you find certain buildings interesting or impressive. This shows critical thinking skills.
Use a variety of tenses: When discussing buildings, you might need to use past tense for history, present tense for current state, and future tense for ongoing constructions or your plans to visit.
Link to broader themes: Connect the building to wider topics like culture, history, or technology. This demonstrates your ability to think abstractly and make connections.
Practice with virtual tours: Many famous buildings offer online virtual tours. Use these to practice describing buildings you haven’t seen in person yet.
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Speaking is not just about what you say, but how you say it. Aim for fluency, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and most importantly, engage with the topic enthusiastically.
IELTS Speaking Test preparation focused on architectural discussion
By following these guidelines and practicing regularly, you’ll be well-prepared to describe a historical event you would like to witness if possible or any other topic that might come up in your IELTS Speaking test. Good luck with your preparation!