Public transportation is a common topic in IELTS Speaking tests, often appearing in various forms across all three parts of the exam. This article will guide you through answering questions related to “describing a journey you took by public transport,” providing sample answers for different band scores and essential vocabulary to help you excel in your IELTS Speaking test.
Describe a time when you took public transport is a frequently asked topic in IELTS Speaking Part 2. Let’s explore how to approach this topic effectively across all parts of the Speaking test.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, the examiner may ask general questions about public transportation. Here are some common questions and sample answers:
Q: How often do you use public transport?
Band 6-7 Answer: “I use public transport quite regularly, probably about 3-4 times a week. It’s convenient for getting to work and running errands in the city center.”
Band 8-9 Answer: “I rely heavily on public transportation, utilizing it on a daily basis. Not only is it an eco-friendly alternative to driving, but it also allows me to maximize my productivity during commutes by catching up on reading or responding to emails.”
Q: What’s your preferred mode of public transport?
Band 6-7 Answer: “I prefer taking the bus because it’s readily available in my area and the routes cover most places I need to go.”
Band 8-9 Answer: “I’m particularly fond of the metro system. Its efficiency and punctuality are unparalleled, and I appreciate how it circumvents traffic congestion, especially during peak hours. Moreover, the extensive network allows me to traverse the city with ease.”
Part 2: Long Turn
Here’s a sample cue card for this topic:
Describe a journey you took by public transport
You should say:
- What type of transport you used
- Where you were going
- Who you were with
- And explain why you chose to use public transport for this journey
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to describe a memorable journey I took by public transport last summer. I opted for a high-speed train to travel from London to Edinburgh, a journey of about 4.5 hours covering approximately 400 miles.
The purpose of my trip was to attend a friend’s wedding in the Scottish capital. I was traveling with my partner, and we decided to make a mini-vacation out of it by spending a few extra days exploring Edinburgh after the festivities.
We chose public transport, specifically the train, for several compelling reasons. Firstly, it was significantly more environmentally friendly than flying or driving. The train’s carbon footprint per passenger is considerably lower, aligning with our desire to travel more sustainably. Secondly, the journey itself became part of the experience. The train offered panoramic views of the British countryside, allowing us to witness the gradual transition from the English landscapes to the Scottish Highlands.
Moreover, the train journey proved to be incredibly convenient and comfortable. We could move around freely, enjoy meals in the dining car, and even catch up on some work using the onboard Wi-Fi. This level of comfort and productivity would have been impossible had we chosen to drive.
The journey was smooth and efficient, with the train arriving precisely on schedule. This punctuality was crucial as we had a tight itinerary upon arrival in Edinburgh. The entire experience, from the ease of booking to the actual journey, reinforced my appreciation for well-organized public transportation systems.
In retrospect, choosing the train for this journey enhanced our overall trip experience. It allowed us to start our vacation in a relaxed state of mind, having enjoyed the journey as much as the destination itself. This experience has certainly solidified my preference for train travel, especially for medium-distance journeys within the UK.”
Follow-up Questions:
- How did the journey compare to your expectations?
Band 6-7 Answer: “The journey exceeded my expectations. It was more comfortable than I thought it would be, and the views were really nice.”
Band 8-9 Answer: “The journey surpassed my expectations on multiple fronts. The punctuality was impeccable, the onboard amenities were more sophisticated than anticipated, and the scenic beauty along the route was truly awe-inspiring. It reinforced my belief in the efficacy of public transportation for long-distance travel.”
- Would you recommend this mode of transport to others? Why or why not?
Band 6-7 Answer: “Yes, I would definitely recommend it. It’s a comfortable and easy way to travel, and you don’t have to worry about driving or parking.”
Band 8-9 Answer: “I would wholeheartedly endorse this mode of transport to others. Not only does it offer a stress-free alternative to driving or flying, but it also provides an opportunity to immerse oneself in the journey. The environmental benefits are substantial, and the overall experience – from the comfort of the seats to the quality of onboard services – makes it an excellent value proposition for travelers.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In Part 3, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:
Q: How do you think public transport will change in the future?
Band 6-7 Answer: “I think public transport will become more environmentally friendly in the future. We might see more electric buses and trains, and maybe even some new types of vehicles we haven’t thought of yet.”
Band 8-9 Answer: “The future of public transportation is likely to be shaped by several key factors. Firstly, we can anticipate a significant shift towards zero-emission vehicles, with electric and hydrogen-powered options becoming the norm rather than the exception. Additionally, I foresee a greater integration of smart technology, enabling seamless, personalized travel experiences. This might include AI-driven route optimization, real-time capacity management, and even autonomous vehicles in certain contexts.
Moreover, I believe there will be a growing emphasis on intermodal transportation systems, where different modes of public transport are seamlessly connected, allowing for more efficient and flexible journeys. This could potentially revolutionize urban planning, leading to more sustainable and livable cities.
Lastly, as climate change concerns intensify, public transport may evolve to play a more crucial role in disaster resilience and emergency response strategies, with adaptable systems designed to function effectively even in extreme conditions.”
Describe a time when you had to adapt to a major change in public transportation systems could be an interesting extension of this discussion, highlighting the evolving nature of urban mobility.
Q: What are the main challenges facing public transport systems in cities today?
Band 6-7 Answer: “I think overcrowding is a big problem, especially during rush hours. Another challenge is keeping the services running on time and dealing with delays caused by traffic or bad weather.”
Band 8-9 Answer: “Public transport systems in urban areas face a multitude of complex challenges. One of the most pressing issues is infrastructure obsolescence. Many cities are grappling with aging transport networks that struggle to meet the demands of growing populations and changing travel patterns. This often leads to reliability issues, frequent breakdowns, and increased maintenance costs.
Another significant challenge is funding. Public transport systems often operate at a loss and rely heavily on government subsidies. Balancing the need for affordable fares with the costs of operation and modernization is a constant struggle for many cities.
Congestion remains a persistent problem, particularly in rapidly growing urban centers. This not only affects the efficiency of surface transport but also contributes to air pollution, exacerbating environmental concerns.
Furthermore, there’s the challenge of accessibility and inclusivity. Ensuring that public transport is available and usable for all members of society, including those with disabilities or those living in underserved areas, is crucial but often difficult to achieve comprehensively.
Lastly, the integration of new technologies poses both opportunities and challenges. While innovations like contactless payment systems and real-time information apps can enhance user experience, implementing these technologies across entire networks can be logistically complex and financially demanding.”
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
To boost your IELTS Speaking score when discussing public transport journeys, consider using these advanced vocabulary items and phrases:
-
Commute (verb/noun) – /kəˈmjuːt/: Regular journey to and from work.
Example: “I commute to work by train every day.” -
Punctuality (noun) – /ˌpʌŋktʃuˈæləti/: The fact or quality of being on time.
Example: “The punctuality of the Swiss train system is legendary.” -
Eco-friendly (adjective) – /ˌiːkəʊ ˈfrendli/: Not harmful to the environment.
Example: “Using public transport is a more eco-friendly option than driving.” -
Infrastructure (noun) – /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃər/: The basic physical and organizational structures needed for the operation of a society or enterprise.
Example: “The city is investing heavily in its public transport infrastructure.” -
Congestion (noun) – /kənˈdʒestʃən/: The state of being overcrowded, especially with traffic.
Example: “Public transport can help reduce congestion on city roads.” -
Efficiency (noun) – /ɪˈfɪʃənsi/: The state or quality of being efficient.
Example: “The efficiency of the metro system has greatly improved commute times.” -
Sustainable (adjective) – /səˈsteɪnəbl/: Able to be maintained at a certain rate or level.
Example: “Cities are focusing on developing more sustainable public transport options.” -
Accessibility (noun) – /əksesəˈbɪləti/: The quality of being able to be reached or entered.
Example: “Improving accessibility for disabled passengers is a priority for the transport authority.”
Describe an enjoyable journey by public transportation could be an excellent opportunity to showcase these vocabulary items in context.
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test when discussing public transport journeys:
- Use a wide range of vocabulary related to transportation, urban planning, and environmental issues.
- Provide detailed and well-developed answers, especially in Part 2 and Part 3.
- Use complex sentence structures and advanced grammatical forms where appropriate.
- Express and justify opinions clearly, particularly when discussing challenges and future developments in public transport.
- Maintain fluency by practicing speaking on this topic regularly.
- Incorporate personal experiences and observations to make your answers more engaging and authentic.
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Speaking is not just about memorizing answers, but about developing the ability to communicate effectively on a range of topics. Regular practice and exposure to English-language media on topics related to public transport and urban development can significantly enhance your performance.
Describe a person who inspired you to rethink your priorities could be an interesting way to discuss how someone influenced your views on public transportation and sustainable living, further demonstrating your ability to connect ideas across different topics.
By following these guidelines and incorporating the provided vocabulary and sample answers, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle questions about public transport journeys in your IELTS Speaking test. Good luck with your preparation!