Mastering the Art of Describing Historic Buildings: An IELTS Speaking Guide

In IELTS Speaking tests, candidates are often asked to describe various aspects of their lives and surroundings. One common topic that frequently appears is describing historic buildings. This task not only tests your language skills but also your ability to organize thoughts and present information coherently. Let’s explore how to effectively approach this topic and achieve a high band score.

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:

1. Are there many historic buildings in your city?
2. Do you think it’s important to preserve old buildings?
3. What’s your favorite historic building?

Let’s focus on the third question:

Examiner: What’s your favorite historic building?

Sample answer (Band 6-7):
My favorite historic building is the Old Quarter in Hanoi. It’s a charming area with narrow streets and traditional houses. I love how it preserves the city’s history and gives visitors a glimpse into the past.

Sample answer (Band 8-9):
I’m particularly fond of the Temple of Literature in Hanoi, which dates back to 1070. This architectural marvel not only showcases exquisite traditional Vietnamese design but also holds immense historical significance as Vietnam’s first national university. Its serene courtyards and ancient stelae never fail to evoke a sense of reverence for our country’s rich scholarly tradition.

Describe a famous building you visited for more insights on how to talk about notable structures.

Part 2: Long Turn

In this section, you’ll be given a cue card with a topic and some bullet points. Here’s a sample cue card related to historic buildings:

Describe a historic building in your city
You should say:
- What the building is
- Where it is located
- What it looks like
- And explain why you think this building is important

Sample answer (Band 6-7):

I’d like to talk about the Hoan Kiem Lake Tower, which is a historic building in my city, Hanoi. It’s located in the center of Hanoi, on a small island in Hoan Kiem Lake. The tower is quite small but very eye-catching. It has a red color and a traditional Vietnamese architectural style with multiple levels and a pointed roof.

The tower is important because it’s a symbol of Hanoi. It’s connected to a famous legend about a magic sword and a giant turtle, which is why the lake is called Hoan Kiem, meaning “returned sword.” Many tourists visit this place, and it’s often used in pictures to represent Hanoi.

I think this building is significant because it helps preserve our history and culture. It reminds us of our past and gives the city a unique character. Also, it’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists, which makes it important for tourism and the local economy.

Sample answer (Band 8-9):

I’d like to describe the Tran Quoc Pagoda, a venerable historic edifice in Hanoi that epitomizes the city’s rich cultural heritage. This Buddhist sanctuary is strategically situated on a small peninsula on the eastern shore of West Lake, offering a serene retreat from the bustling city center.

The pagoda is a quintessential example of traditional Vietnamese Buddhist architecture. Its most striking feature is the eleven-story red brick tower, which tapers gracefully towards the sky. The tower is adorned with intricate Buddhist motifs and topped with a golden spire, creating a mesmerizing silhouette against the backdrop of the lake. Surrounding the main tower are various auxiliary structures, including prayer halls and living quarters for monks, all exuding an aura of tranquility.

The significance of Tran Quoc Pagoda cannot be overstated. As one of the oldest temples in Vietnam, dating back to the 6th century, it serves as a tangible link to our nation’s ancient past. It’s not merely a religious institution but a living repository of Vietnamese culture and spirituality. The pagoda has weathered centuries of historical tumult, standing as a testament to the resilience of our cultural identity.

Moreover, the pagoda plays a crucial role in preserving and propagating traditional Buddhist practices and philosophies. It continues to be an active place of worship, attracting both devout locals and curious visitors. This dual function as a historical monument and a living religious center underscores its importance in maintaining the cultural continuity of Hanoi and Vietnam as a whole.

Tran Quoc Pagoda in Hanoi, Vietnam

Follow-up questions:

1. How has this historic building changed over time?
2. What measures are being taken to preserve this building?

Sample answer (Band 8-9):

The Tran Quoc Pagoda has undergone several renovations and expansions throughout its long history, yet it has remarkably retained its original architectural essence. The most significant change was the addition of the iconic tower in the 17th century, which has since become its defining feature. Despite these alterations, great care has been taken to ensure that any modifications align with the pagoda’s historical and cultural significance.

As for preservation measures, the Vietnamese government has designated Tran Quoc Pagoda as a National Historic Site, which affords it special protections. A team of expert conservationists regularly assesses the structure for any signs of deterioration and conducts necessary repairs using traditional materials and techniques. Additionally, there are strict regulations governing visitor behavior to minimize wear and tear on the ancient structures. These efforts collectively aim to safeguard this architectural gem for future generations while allowing it to continue functioning as an active place of worship.

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

In this section, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here’s a sample dialogue:

Examiner: How do historic buildings contribute to a city’s identity?

Sample answer (Band 6-7):
Historic buildings are very important for a city’s identity. They show the city’s history and culture. These buildings make the city unique and different from other places. They also attract tourists, which is good for the local economy. People can learn about their past by looking at these old buildings.

Sample answer (Band 8-9):
Historic buildings play a pivotal role in shaping a city’s identity. They serve as tangible links to the past, offering insights into the city’s cultural evolution, architectural trends, and historical events. These structures imbue the urban landscape with a sense of depth and character that modern buildings often lack.

Moreover, historic edifices contribute significantly to a city’s unique aesthetic, creating a visual narrative that distinguishes it from other urban centers. This distinctiveness not only fosters a sense of pride among residents but also enhances the city’s appeal to visitors, thereby bolstering cultural tourism.

Furthermore, these buildings act as anchor points for collective memory and cultural continuity. They provide physical spaces where traditions can be maintained and history can be actively engaged with, bridging the gap between past and present generations. In essence, historic buildings are not mere relics but living embodiments of a city’s heritage, continuously shaping its identity in the modern world.

Describe a recent event in your city to learn more about discussing urban experiences.

Key Vocabulary and Phrases

To enhance your responses and achieve a higher band score, consider using these advanced words and phrases:

1. Architectural marvel /ˌɑːrkɪˈtektʃərəl ˈmɑːrvəl/ (noun phrase): A building that is exceptionally impressive in its design and construction.
   Example: “The Taj Mahal is widely regarded as an architectural marvel.”

2. Epitomize /ɪˈpɪtəmaɪz/ (verb): To be a perfect example of something.
   Example: “The ancient temples epitomize the architectural brilliance of the civilization.”

3. Venerable /ˈvenərəbl/ (adjective): Accorded a great deal of respect, especially because of age, wisdom, or character.
   Example: “The venerable cathedral has stood in the city center for over 800 years.”

4. Quintessential /ˌkwɪntɪˈsenʃl/ (adjective): Representing the most perfect or typical example of a quality or class.
   Example: “The pagoda is a quintessential example of traditional Buddhist architecture.”

5. Exude /ɪɡˈzjuːd/ (verb): To display an emotion or quality strongly and openly.
   Example: “The ancient walls exude an aura of mystery and history.”

Describe a favorite place in your city for more vocabulary related to urban landmarks.

Examiner’s Advice

To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test when describing historic buildings:

1. Develop a rich vocabulary specific to architecture and history. This will allow you to describe buildings more vividly and accurately.

2. Practice organizing your thoughts quickly. Use the 1-minute preparation time in Part 2 to jot down key points.

3. Use a variety of grammatical structures, including complex sentences, to demonstrate your language proficiency.

4. Provide specific details and examples to support your points, making your description more engaging and credible.

5. Show enthusiasm in your tone and content. Examiners appreciate candidates who can speak passionately about a topic.

6. Connect the building to broader themes like history, culture, or social issues to demonstrate critical thinking skills.

Remember, the key to success is regular practice. Try describing different buildings you encounter in your daily life, focusing on their historical significance and architectural features.

Describe a garden you have been to for additional practice in describing outdoor spaces.

By following these guidelines and incorporating the suggested vocabulary and phrases, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle any question about historic buildings in your IELTS Speaking test. Good luck with your exam!