The topic “Describe a park you like to visit” is a popular choice in IELTS Speaking tests, particularly in Part 2. It allows candidates to showcase their descriptive language skills and ability to express personal preferences. Given its relevance to everyday life and environmental themes, this topic is likely to remain a staple in future IELTS exams. Let’s explore how to effectively tackle this subject and maximize your speaking score.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, the examiner may ask general questions about parks and outdoor spaces. Here are some possible questions:
- Do you often visit parks?
- What do you usually do when you go to a park?
- Are there many parks in your city/town?
- Do you think parks are important in urban areas?
Let’s look at a sample answer for the first question:
Examiner: “Do you often visit parks?”
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“Well, I’d say I’m a frequent park-goer. I try to visit my local park at least once a week, usually on weekends. It’s a great way to unwind after a busy week and get some fresh air. Plus, I find that being surrounded by nature really helps me recharge my batteries.”
Key features of this answer:
- Uses a variety of vocabulary related to frequency (frequent, at least once a week)
- Includes idiomatic expressions (unwind, recharge my batteries)
- Provides reasons for visiting parks, showing the ability to expand on the topic
Part 2: Long Turn
Here’s a sample cue card for this topic:
Describe a park you like to visit.
You should say:
- Where this park is located
- What features it has
- What activities you can do there
- And explain why you like visiting this park
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to talk about Central Park, a sprawling urban oasis located in the heart of New York City. This iconic park spans over 840 acres and is truly a testament to urban planning and the importance of green spaces in cities.
One of the most striking features of Central Park is its diverse landscape. It boasts a perfect blend of natural and man-made elements, including lush lawns, serene lakes, and winding pathways. The park is home to numerous architectural marvels such as the Belvedere Castle and the Bethesda Terrace, which add to its charm and character.
As for activities, Central Park offers something for everyone. You can go for a leisurely stroll or embark on a vigorous jog along its many trails. In the summer, people often engage in outdoor yoga sessions or have picnics on the Great Lawn. The park also features several playgrounds for children, making it a family-friendly destination. During winter, the Wollman Rink becomes a popular spot for ice skating, transforming the park into a winter wonderland.
I’m particularly fond of visiting Central Park because it provides a much-needed escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. It’s a place where I can reconnect with nature without leaving the city. The park’s ability to offer tranquility amidst urban chaos is truly remarkable. Moreover, it serves as a cultural hub, hosting various events and performances throughout the year, which adds to its appeal.
In essence, Central Park is not just a green space; it’s a vital part of New York’s identity and a sanctuary for city dwellers seeking respite from urban life. Its timeless appeal and versatility make it a place I always look forward to visiting.”
Key features of this answer:
- Rich, descriptive vocabulary (sprawling, iconic, testament)
- Varied sentence structures
- Coherent organization following the cue card prompts
- Personal opinions and feelings expressed
Possible follow-up questions:
- How often do you visit this park?
- Do you think there should be more parks like this in other cities?
Sample answer for question 2 (Band 8-9):
“Absolutely, I firmly believe that more cities should invest in creating expansive parks like Central Park. Such green spaces are essential for urban well-being, providing numerous environmental and social benefits. They act as the lungs of the city, improving air quality and mitigating the urban heat island effect. Moreover, these parks foster community engagement and offer accessible recreational opportunities for all residents, regardless of their socioeconomic status. In my opinion, prioritizing the development of large urban parks is a crucial step towards creating more livable and sustainable cities for future generations.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Examiner: “Do you think the government should invest more in creating and maintaining parks?”
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I strongly advocate for increased government investment in parks. Parks are not merely aesthetic additions to urban landscapes; they play a vital role in promoting public health, both physical and mental. By providing spaces for exercise and relaxation, parks can contribute significantly to reducing healthcare costs in the long run. Furthermore, well-maintained green spaces can boost property values and attract tourism, potentially generating revenue for the local economy. From an environmental perspective, parks act as carbon sinks and support biodiversity, which is crucial in our fight against climate change. However, it’s important to note that this investment should be balanced with other pressing urban needs. Perhaps a collaborative approach, involving public-private partnerships, could be an effective way to ensure the creation and upkeep of these essential urban amenities without overly burdening public finances.”
Key features of this answer:
- Demonstrates critical thinking and the ability to analyze from multiple perspectives
- Uses advanced vocabulary and complex sentence structures
- Provides well-reasoned arguments supported by examples
- Shows awareness of broader issues (public health, economy, environment)
Describe a recent outdoor activity you did to further enhance your speaking skills on related topics.
Vocabulary and Phrases to Boost Your Score
-
Urban oasis (noun) /ˈɜːrbən əʊˈeɪsɪs/
Definition: A pleasant or peaceful area in a city
Example: “The park serves as an urban oasis amidst the concrete jungle.” -
Biodiversity (noun) /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti/
Definition: The variety of plant and animal life in a particular habitat
Example: “The park’s biodiversity is impressive, hosting numerous species of birds and plants.” -
Sustainable development (noun phrase) /səˈsteɪnəbl dɪˈveləpmənt/
Definition: Economic development conducted without depletion of natural resources
Example: “Incorporating parks into urban planning is crucial for sustainable development.” -
Recreational facilities (noun phrase) /ˌrekriˈeɪʃənl fəˈsɪlətiz/
Definition: Amenities provided for leisure activities
Example: “The park boasts a wide range of recreational facilities, including tennis courts and cycling paths.” -
To unwind (verb) /ʌnˈwaɪnd/
Definition: To relax after a period of work or tension
Example: “I often visit the park to unwind after a stressful day at work.”
Tips from an IELTS Examiner
-
Practice describing parks you’re familiar with, focusing on sensory details and personal experiences.
-
Develop a bank of advanced vocabulary related to nature, urban planning, and recreational activities.
-
Work on linking your ideas coherently, using a variety of connecting phrases.
-
Prepare to discuss broader issues related to parks, such as environmental conservation and urban development.
-
Record yourself answering sample questions and analyze your responses for fluency, vocabulary use, and pronunciation.
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 will help you achieve this goal.
Describe a place where you would like to go to relax for more practice on describing peaceful locations.
By incorporating these strategies and expanding your vocabulary, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle the “Describe a park you like to visit” topic and similar themes in your IELTS Speaking test. Good luck with your preparation!