The topic of describing a park or garden you enjoy visiting is a common theme in IELTS Speaking tests. It has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to remain a popular topic for future tests. This subject allows examiners to assess candidates’ ability to describe places, express personal preferences, and discuss environmental issues.
Describe a forest or park you visited that left a strong impression on you is a related topic that candidates may also encounter. Being prepared to discuss various aspects of parks and gardens can significantly boost your confidence and performance in the IELTS Speaking test.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask you general questions about parks and gardens. Here are some typical questions you might encounter:
- Do you often visit parks or gardens?
- What do you usually do when you go to a park?
- Are there many public parks in your city?
- Do you think there should be more parks in cities?
Let’s look at a sample answer for the first question:
Examiner: Do you often visit parks or gardens?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“Yes, I do. I try to visit the local park near my home at least once a week. It’s a great way to unwind after a hectic day and get some fresh air. I find that spending time in nature, even if it’s just a small urban park, really helps me recharge my batteries and clear my mind.”
Part 2: Long Turn
Here’s a sample cue card related to describing a park or garden:
Describe a park or garden in your area that you enjoy visiting.
You should say:
- Where it is located
- What features it has
- What activities people do there
- And explain why you enjoy visiting this place
Sample answer (Band 6-7):
“I’d like to talk about Central Park, which is located in the heart of my city. It’s a sprawling green space that covers about 50 acres and is easily accessible by public transport.
The park has several notable features. There’s a large artificial lake in the center, surrounded by well-maintained walking paths. You can also find beautiful flower gardens, especially in spring when the tulips and roses are in full bloom. There are plenty of benches and picnic areas scattered throughout the park, making it a great place to relax.
People engage in various activities in Central Park. Many locals come here for their daily jogs or to walk their dogs. On weekends, you’ll see families having picnics and children playing on the playground equipment. There’s also a dedicated area for sports where people play basketball and tennis.
I enjoy visiting this park because it offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. It’s a place where I can reconnect with nature and enjoy some quiet time. Whether I’m reading a book under a tree or simply watching people go by, I always feel refreshed after spending time in Central Park.”
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to describe Harmony Gardens, an exquisite botanical oasis nestled in the suburbs of my city. This meticulously curated green space spans approximately 30 acres and is conveniently located just a 15-minute drive from the city center.
Harmony Gardens boasts an array of captivating features that make it a horticultural marvel. The centerpiece is undoubtedly the Victorian-style glasshouse, which houses a diverse collection of exotic plants from around the globe. Meandering through the park, you’ll encounter themed gardens, each showcasing different botanical styles – from the zen-like Japanese garden to the vibrant Mediterranean terrace. The park also features a serene koi pond, complete with a charming wooden bridge that’s become a favorite spot for photographers.
The gardens serve as a multifaceted recreational hub for the local community. Avid horticulturists frequently attend workshops and lectures on sustainable gardening practices. Fitness enthusiasts take advantage of the winding jogging trails that weave through the landscape. On weekends, the open-air amphitheater comes alive with cultural performances and outdoor cinema screenings, attracting diverse crowds.
What I find particularly enchanting about Harmony Gardens is its ability to seamlessly blend natural beauty with educational opportunities. Each visit offers a chance to expand my botanical knowledge and gain a deeper appreciation for biodiversity. The gardens also serve as a living laboratory for local schools, fostering environmental awareness in younger generations. Moreover, the tranquil atmosphere provides an ideal setting for mindfulness and reflection, allowing me to recharge my mental batteries amidst the demands of urban life. In essence, Harmony Gardens is not just a park; it’s a vital green lung for our city and a testament to the importance of preserving natural spaces in urban environments.”
Follow-up questions:
- How often do you visit this park or garden?
- Has the park changed much since you first started visiting it?
- Do you think it’s important for cities to have public parks and gardens?
Sample answers:
Question 1 (Band 7-8):
“I make it a point to visit Harmony Gardens at least twice a month. Sometimes, if I’m feeling particularly stressed or need inspiration, I might go more frequently. It’s become somewhat of a sanctuary for me, a place where I can escape the concrete jungle and immerse myself in nature.”
Question 2 (Band 8-9):
“Indeed, Harmony Gardens has undergone some significant transformations since I first started visiting. The local council has made concerted efforts to enhance its appeal and functionality. They’ve introduced a state-of-the-art irrigation system that’s greatly improved water conservation. There’s also been a push towards incorporating more native plant species, which has not only boosted local biodiversity but also reduced maintenance costs. Perhaps the most noticeable change has been the addition of the interactive educational displays throughout the park, which have really elevated its role as an outdoor classroom.”
Question 3 (Band 7-8):
“Absolutely, I believe public parks and gardens are essential components of urban planning. They serve multiple crucial functions in cities. Firstly, they act as green lungs, helping to filter air pollution and reduce the urban heat island effect. Secondly, they provide much-needed recreational spaces for city dwellers, promoting physical and mental well-being. Lastly, they play a vital role in fostering community spirit, offering spaces for social interaction and cultural events. In my view, investing in public green spaces is investing in the overall quality of life for urban residents.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In this section, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some possible questions and sample answers:
Examiner: How do you think urban parks contribute to the quality of life in cities?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“Urban parks play a crucial role in enhancing the quality of life in cities. They provide much-needed green spaces where people can escape the concrete jungle and reconnect with nature. These areas offer opportunities for physical activities like jogging or playing sports, which is essential for maintaining good health in sedentary urban lifestyles. Moreover, parks serve as social hubs, bringing communities together and fostering a sense of belonging. They also have environmental benefits, helping to reduce air pollution and lower urban temperatures.”
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“Urban parks are indispensable assets that significantly elevate the quality of life in cities on multiple fronts. Primarily, they serve as vital green lungs in the urban landscape, mitigating air pollution and countering the heat island effect that plagues many metropolises. From an ecological standpoint, they act as biodiversity hotspots, providing habitats for various flora and fauna, thereby maintaining ecological balance within the urban ecosystem.
Furthermore, these green spaces offer a plethora of physical and mental health benefits to city dwellers. They provide accessible venues for physical activities and outdoor recreation, which are crucial in combating the sedentary lifestyles often associated with urban living. The exposure to nature in these parks has been scientifically proven to reduce stress levels, enhance mood, and improve overall mental well-being.
Socially, urban parks function as democratic spaces that foster community cohesion and social interaction. They serve as venues for cultural events, community gatherings, and intergenerational activities, thereby strengthening the social fabric of urban communities. Moreover, well-maintained parks can boost property values in surrounding areas and attract tourism, contributing to the local economy.
In essence, urban parks are multifaceted assets that not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of cities but also play a pivotal role in promoting public health, environmental sustainability, and social equity, thereby significantly improving the overall quality of urban life.”
Examiner: Do you think the government should invest more in creating and maintaining public parks?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“Yes, I firmly believe that governments should allocate more resources to creating and maintaining public parks. These green spaces are essential for urban well-being, providing numerous benefits to city residents. Investing in parks can lead to improved public health by offering spaces for exercise and relaxation. It can also help in reducing pollution and combating climate change on a local level. Moreover, well-maintained parks can boost tourism and increase property values in surrounding areas, potentially generating more revenue for the city in the long run.”
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I’m of the strong opinion that increased government investment in public parks is not just beneficial, but imperative for sustainable urban development. The multifaceted advantages of well-planned and maintained green spaces far outweigh the initial costs involved.
Firstly, from a public health perspective, parks serve as accessible recreational areas that promote physical activity and mental well-being. In an era where lifestyle diseases are on the rise, providing spaces that encourage outdoor activities can lead to significant reductions in healthcare costs in the long term. The psychological benefits of green spaces, including stress reduction and improved mental health, are well-documented and can contribute to a more productive and satisfied urban populace.
Environmentally, parks act as crucial carbon sinks and biodiversity hotspots within urban areas. They play a vital role in mitigating the urban heat island effect, improving air quality, and managing stormwater runoff. As cities grapple with the challenges of climate change, investing in green infrastructure becomes not just desirable, but necessary for urban resilience.
From an economic standpoint, well-maintained parks can significantly enhance property values in surrounding areas, potentially increasing the city’s tax base. They also serve as tourist attractions, boosting the local economy. Moreover, green spaces can be leveraged for urban agriculture initiatives, promoting food security and community engagement.
Socially, parks function as equalizers in urban environments, providing free, accessible spaces for recreation and social interaction across all demographics. They foster a sense of community and can be utilized for cultural events and educational programs, enriching the social fabric of the city.
In conclusion, while the initial investment may be substantial, the long-term benefits of public parks in terms of public health, environmental sustainability, economic growth, and social cohesion make them a wise and necessary investment for forward-thinking governments. It’s not just about creating green spaces, but about building livable, resilient, and thriving cities for current and future generations.”
Key Vocabulary and Phrases
To enhance your IELTS Speaking performance when describing parks and gardens, consider using these advanced vocabulary words and phrases:
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Verdant oasis (noun phrase) – /ˈvɜːrdənt ˈoʊeɪsɪs/ – A lush green area in an otherwise dry or urban environment.
Example: “The park serves as a verdant oasis in the heart of our bustling city.” -
Biodiversity hotspot (noun phrase) – /ˌbaɪoʊdaɪˈvɜːrsəti ˈhɒtspɒt/ – An area with a high concentration of diverse plant and animal species.
Example: “This garden is a biodiversity hotspot, home to numerous rare plant species.” -
Horticultural marvel (noun phrase) – /ˌhɔːrtɪˈkʌltʃərəl ˈmɑːrvəl/ – An impressive or extraordinary garden or plant display.
Example: “The botanical garden is a horticultural marvel, featuring plants from every continent.” -
To meander (verb) – /miˈændər/ – To follow a winding course.
Example: “Visitors can meander along the park’s winding paths, taking in the beautiful scenery.” -
Serene atmosphere (noun phrase) – /səˈriːn ˈætməsfɪər/ – A peaceful and calm environment.
Example: “The park’s serene atmosphere provides a perfect escape from the city’s noise.” -
Landscaped grounds (noun phrase) – /ˈlændskeɪpt graʊndz/ – An area of land that has been artistically and functionally designed.
Example: “The carefully landscaped grounds of the park include both formal gardens and natural areas.” -
To commune with nature (phrase) – /tə kəˈmjuːn wɪð ˈneɪtʃər/ – To feel close to or in tune with the natural world.
Example: “Many people visit the park to commune with nature and find inner peace.”
Examiner’s Advice
To excel in the IELTS Speaking test when describing parks and gardens:
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Practice describing various aspects of parks and gardens, including their layout, features, and the activities people do there.
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Use a range of descriptive adjectives to make your description vivid and engaging.
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Incorporate personal anecdotes or experiences to add authenticity to your responses.
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Develop your ideas fully, providing reasons and examples to support your points.
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Use linking words and phrases to connect your ideas smoothly.
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Practice speaking for 2 minutes on this topic to prepare for Part 2.
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Familiarize yourself with related topics like environmental issues, urban planning, and the benefits of green spaces in cities.
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Speaking is not just about using advanced vocabulary, but also about expressing your ideas clearly, coherently, and confidently.
Describe a famous building you would like to visit is another topic you might encounter in the IELTS Speaking test. Many of the strategies discussed here can be applied to that topic as well, demonstrating the versatility of these speaking skills.