The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about places and architecture, making “describe a famous building you would like to visit” a common topic. This theme has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to remain relevant in future tests. Let’s explore how to tackle this subject effectively across all parts of the IELTS Speaking exam.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about buildings and architecture. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:
Sample Question: Do you have a favorite building in your hometown?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I do. There’s an old church in the city center that I really like. It’s quite beautiful and has a lot of history behind it.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely! In the heart of my hometown stands a magnificent Gothic cathedral that never fails to take my breath away. Its intricate spires and stunning stained glass windows make it a true architectural gem. Not only is it visually striking, but it also holds significant historical and cultural importance for our community.
Describe a historical building you have visited to gain more insights into discussing architectural landmarks effectively in your IELTS Speaking test.
Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)
Cue Card:
Describe a famous 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 Answers:
Band 6-7 Answer:
I’d really like to visit the Eiffel Tower in Paris, France. It’s a very tall iron structure that was built in 1889. The tower has three levels for visitors and is painted in a bronze color. It’s famous for its unique shape and is often seen in movies and pictures of Paris.
I want to visit the Eiffel Tower because it’s such an iconic landmark. I’ve seen it in many photos and films, and I think it would be amazing to see it in person. I’d love to go up to the top and enjoy the view of Paris. Also, I think it would be romantic to see it lit up at night. It’s a symbol of France and visiting it would make me feel like I’ve truly experienced Paris.
Band 8-9 Answer:
The architectural marvel I’m particularly eager to visit is the Sagrada Família in Barcelona, Spain. This awe-inspiring basilica, designed by the renowned architect Antoni Gaudí, has been under construction since 1882 and is a testament to human creativity and perseverance.
Located in the heart of Barcelona, the Sagrada Família is a colossal structure that dominates the city’s skyline. Its most striking features are the soaring spires that seem to touch the heavens, each intricately adorned with symbolic sculptures and mosaics. The exterior is a mesmerizing blend of Gothic and Art Nouveau styles, with facades depicting scenes from the life of Christ.
What truly sets this basilica apart is its interior. The forest-like columns that support the roof branch out like trees, creating an ethereal atmosphere. The stained glass windows bathe the interior in a kaleidoscope of colors, changing with the movement of the sun throughout the day.
I’m drawn to visit the Sagrada Família for several compelling reasons. Firstly, its unique architectural style is unlike anything else in the world, blending natural forms with religious symbolism in a way that challenges conventional design. Secondly, the sheer scale and ambition of the project, spanning over a century, is a testament to human dedication and the power of a visionary idea. Lastly, I’m fascinated by how the basilica continues to evolve, with modern architects and artisans using cutting-edge technology to realize Gaudí’s original vision. Experiencing this living piece of history firsthand would be truly awe-inspiring and, I believe, a profoundly moving experience.
Follow-up Questions:
- How long do you think it would take to fully explore this building?
Band 6-7 Answer:
I think it would take at least half a day to properly explore the Sagrada Família. There’s so much to see both inside and outside the building.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Given the sheer scale and intricacy of the Sagrada Família, I believe a thorough exploration would require at least a full day, if not more. The exterior alone warrants several hours of study to appreciate the detailed sculptures and symbolic elements. Inside, one could spend considerable time marveling at the architectural features, such as the tree-like columns and kaleidoscopic light from the stained glass windows. Additionally, ascending one of the towers for a panoramic view of Barcelona and examining the ongoing construction would add to the experience. To truly absorb the artistic and spiritual atmosphere and perhaps attend a guided tour for deeper insights, spreading the visit over two days would be ideal.
- Do you think famous buildings are important for a city’s identity?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I think famous buildings are very important for a city. They give the city a unique look and help people remember it. They also attract tourists, which is good for the economy.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely, I believe famous buildings play a crucial role in shaping a city’s identity. These architectural landmarks often serve as visual shorthand for the entire city – think of how the Eiffel Tower immediately evokes Paris, or how the Sydney Opera House is synonymous with Sydney. They embody the history, culture, and aspirations of a place, acting as a tangible link between past and present.
Moreover, iconic buildings can become powerful symbols of a city’s values or achievements. They often reflect local artistic traditions or technological prowess, thus contributing to civic pride. From an economic perspective, these structures frequently become major tourist attractions, boosting the local economy and putting cities on the global map.
However, it’s worth noting that a city’s identity is multifaceted, and while famous buildings are important, they should be part of a broader urban fabric that includes diverse architecture, public spaces, and cultural institutions to truly represent the city’s character.
Describe a city that is famous for its architecture to gain more insights into discussing urban landscapes and their architectural significance.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Sample Questions and Answers:
- How has modern architecture changed the way cities look?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Modern architecture has made cities look very different. We now see a lot of tall buildings made of glass and steel. Cities look more futuristic and can fit more people in a smaller space. But sometimes, this means losing some of the old, traditional buildings.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Modern architecture has profoundly transformed urban landscapes in numerous ways. Perhaps most notably, the advent of skyscrapers and high-rise buildings has dramatically altered city skylines, creating vertical cities that maximize land use in densely populated areas. This shift towards vertical living and working has not only changed the visual aspect of cities but also their functionality and the way people interact within urban spaces.
The use of innovative materials like reinforced concrete, steel, and glass has enabled architects to create bold, avant-garde designs that were previously impossible. This has led to the emergence of iconic structures that often become symbols of progress and modernity for their respective cities.
Moreover, there’s been a growing emphasis on sustainable and eco-friendly design, with many modern buildings incorporating green technologies like solar panels, rainwater harvesting systems, and energy-efficient facades. This focus on sustainability is gradually reshaping cities into more environmentally conscious spaces.
However, this architectural evolution has not been without controversy. In many cases, modern developments have led to the displacement of historical buildings and traditional architectural styles, sparking debates about preserving cultural heritage versus embracing progress. The challenge lies in striking a balance between innovation and preservation, creating cities that honor their past while adapting to future needs.
- Do you think it’s important to preserve old buildings in cities?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I think it’s very important to preserve old buildings. They tell us about our history and culture. Old buildings make cities more interesting and beautiful. They also help us remember how people lived in the past.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Preserving old buildings in cities is, in my opinion, critically important for several compelling reasons. Firstly, these structures serve as tangible links to our past, offering invaluable insights into the history, culture, and architectural styles of previous generations. They embody the collective memory of a place and contribute significantly to a city’s unique character and identity.
From an aesthetic perspective, old buildings often possess a charm and craftsmanship that is difficult to replicate in modern constructions. They provide visual diversity to urban landscapes, creating a rich tapestry of architectural styles that makes cities more visually appealing and interesting.
Furthermore, the preservation of old buildings aligns with principles of sustainability. Retrofitting and repurposing existing structures is often more environmentally friendly than demolition and new construction, as it reduces waste and conserves the embodied energy in these buildings.
However, it’s important to strike a balance between preservation and progress. While we should strive to maintain historically significant buildings, cities must also evolve to meet changing needs. The key lies in thoughtful urban planning that integrates old and new, perhaps by adaptively reusing old buildings for modern purposes or ensuring that new developments are sensitive to their historical context.
In essence, preserving old buildings is not just about maintaining physical structures, but about safeguarding cultural heritage, promoting sustainable development, and ensuring that cities retain their unique character in the face of rapid modernization.
Describe a neighborhood in your city you would like to explore for more practice in discussing urban environments and their characteristics.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases
To boost your IELTS Speaking score when discussing famous buildings, consider using these advanced terms and expressions:
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Architectural marvel [ˌɑːkɪˈtektʃərəl ˈmɑːvəl] (noun phrase): A building that is exceptionally impressive or ingenious in design.
Example: The Taj Mahal is widely regarded as an architectural marvel. -
Iconic landmark [aɪˈkɒnɪk ˈlændmɑːk] (noun phrase): A famous or important building that is easily recognized.
Example: The Statue of Liberty is an iconic landmark of New York City. -
Awe-inspiring [ˈɔː ɪnˌspaɪərɪŋ] (adjective): Extremely impressive or amazing.
Example: The intricate details of the Sagrada Família are truly awe-inspiring. -
Blend of styles [blend əv staɪlz] (noun phrase): A combination of different architectural approaches.
Example: The building showcases a unique blend of Gothic and Modern styles. -
Dominate the skyline [ˈdɒmɪneɪt ðə ˈskaɪlaɪn] (verb phrase): To be the most noticeable feature of a city’s outline against the sky.
Example: The Burj Khalifa dominates the skyline of Dubai. -
Cutting-edge design [ˈkʌtɪŋ edʒ dɪˈzaɪn] (noun phrase): The most advanced or innovative style.
Example: The museum’s cutting-edge design attracts architecture enthusiasts from around the world.
Using these terms and phrases will demonstrate a rich vocabulary and help you articulate your thoughts more precisely, contributing to a higher band score in your IELTS Speaking test.
Tips from an IELTS Speaking Examiner
As an experienced IELTS Speaking examiner, I recommend the following strategies to excel in your test:
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Practice describing buildings in detail: Familiarize yourself with architectural terms and practice describing various aspects of buildings, from their exterior features to their historical significance.
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Develop your personal opinions: Don’t just describe what you see; explain why certain buildings appeal to you or what makes them significant. This demonstrates critical thinking skills.
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Use a range of vocabulary: Incorporate advanced terms and idiomatic expressions related to architecture and urban development to showcase your language proficiency.
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Structure your answers: Especially in Part 2, organize your thoughts logically. Start with a brief introduction, then cover each bullet point, and conclude with your personal feelings or opinions.
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Extend your answers in Part 3: Provide explanations, examples, and balanced arguments when discussing more abstract topics related to buildings and urban development.
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Stay relevant: While it’s good to elaborate, make sure your answers remain focused on the question asked.
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Work on your pronunciation and fluency: Practice speaking clearly and confidently, paying attention to word stress and intonation.
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Be authentic: Share genuine opinions and experiences. Authenticity often leads to more natural and fluent speech.
Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is not just about what you say, but how you say it. Regular practice and exposure to a wide range of topics will help you feel more confident and perform better on test day.
Describe a recent visit to a park or garden for additional practice in describing places and experiences, which can be helpful when discussing famous buildings and urban spaces.
By following these guidelines and incorporating the suggested vocabulary and phrases, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle questions about famous buildings in your IELTS Speaking test. Remember to practice regularly and expose yourself to various architectural topics to build your confidence and fluency.