The topic of describing a park you would like to visit again is a common theme in IELTS Speaking tests. It allows examiners to assess candidates’ ability to discuss personal experiences, express preferences, and use descriptive language. This topic 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 several questions related to parks and outdoor spaces. Here are some potential questions and a sample answer for one:
- Do you often visit parks?
- What do you usually do when you go to a park?
- Are there any parks near where you live?
- Do you think parks are important in cities?
Let’s focus on question 4:
Examiner: Do you think parks are important in cities?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“Absolutely! I believe parks play a crucial role in urban environments. They provide a much-needed green oasis amidst the concrete jungle, offering city dwellers a place to unwind and reconnect with nature. Parks also serve as community hubs, where people can socialize, exercise, and enjoy various recreational activities. Moreover, they contribute significantly to improving air quality and reducing urban heat, which are vital for creating livable cities. In my opinion, parks are essential for maintaining both the physical and mental well-being of city residents.”
Describe a cultural event you attended in another country can be an interesting topic to explore, similar to discussing memorable park experiences.
Part 2: Long Turn
Here’s a sample cue card related to the topic:
Describe a park you would like to visit again
You should say:
- Where the park is located
- When you visited it
- What you did there
- And explain why you would like to visit it again
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d love to revisit Central Park in New York City, which I had the pleasure of exploring during a trip to the United States two years ago. This iconic urban oasis is situated right in the heart of Manhattan, providing a stark contrast to the towering skyscrapers that surround it.
My visit to Central Park was a highlight of my New York experience. I spent an entire day there, meandering through its vast network of paths and discovering its many attractions. I remember strolling along the tree-lined Mall, admiring the beautiful Bethesda Fountain, and even renting a rowboat to paddle around the picturesque lake.
One of the most memorable aspects of my visit was the park’s ability to make me feel completely immersed in nature, despite being in one of the world’s busiest cities. The lush greenery, diverse wildlife, and serene water features created a tranquil atmosphere that was truly captivating.
I’m eager to visit Central Park again for several reasons. Firstly, its sheer size means that there are still many areas I haven’t explored, such as the North Woods and the Conservatory Garden. I’d also love to experience the park in a different season, perhaps during the vibrant autumn when the leaves change color, creating a spectacular display. Additionally, Central Park hosts numerous events and performances throughout the year, and I’d be thrilled to attend one of these cultural experiences.
Moreover, the park holds a special place in my heart as it epitomizes the perfect balance between urban development and natural preservation. It’s a testament to thoughtful city planning and the importance of green spaces in metropolitan areas. Revisiting Central Park would not only allow me to create new memories but also to gain a deeper appreciation for this remarkable urban sanctuary.”
Central Park in New York City aerial view
Examiner’s follow-up questions:
- How do you think parks in cities differ from those in smaller towns?
- What impact do you think technology has had on people’s enjoyment of parks?
Sample answer for question 1 (Band 8-9):
“Parks in cities and smaller towns often differ significantly in terms of scale and functionality. Urban parks tend to be larger and more multifaceted, catering to a diverse population with varied interests. They often incorporate a wide range of amenities such as sports facilities, cultural venues, and even restaurants or cafes. In contrast, parks in smaller towns are typically more intimate and community-focused. They might feature simpler layouts with basic playground equipment and open green spaces, reflecting the more close-knit nature of smaller communities.
Moreover, city parks often serve as ‘green lungs’ for urban areas, playing a crucial role in mitigating pollution and reducing the urban heat island effect. This environmental function is less pronounced in smaller towns where there’s generally more open space and less pollution. Additionally, urban parks frequently become tourist attractions in their own right, like Central Park in New York or Hyde Park in London, whereas parks in smaller towns primarily serve local residents.
That said, both types of parks share the fundamental purpose of providing accessible green spaces for recreation and relaxation, contributing significantly to the quality of life in their respective communities.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Examiner: How do you think parks contribute to the well-being of city residents?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“Parks play a multifaceted role in enhancing the well-being of city dwellers on various levels. Firstly, from a physical health perspective, parks provide accessible spaces for exercise and outdoor activities, which are crucial in combating the sedentary lifestyle often associated with urban living. Whether it’s jogging, cycling, or participating in group fitness classes, these green spaces offer opportunities for physical activity that might otherwise be limited in a densely populated city environment.
Mentally and emotionally, parks serve as sanctuaries from the hustle and bustle of city life. The presence of nature, even in small doses, has been scientifically proven to reduce stress levels, improve mood, and enhance overall mental well-being. The simple act of spending time in a green space can lead to decreased cortisol levels and improved cognitive function.
Moreover, parks foster a sense of community and social connection. They act as gathering places where people from diverse backgrounds can interact, strengthening social bonds and promoting cultural understanding. This social aspect is particularly valuable in large cities where feelings of isolation can be prevalent.
From an environmental standpoint, urban parks contribute significantly to air quality improvement by filtering pollutants and producing oxygen. They also play a crucial role in urban temperature regulation, mitigating the heat island effect common in cities.
Lastly, parks offer aesthetic value, enhancing the visual appeal of urban landscapes and potentially increasing property values in surrounding areas. This aesthetic contribution shouldn’t be underestimated, as it can significantly impact residents’ overall satisfaction with their living environment.
In essence, parks are vital components of urban infrastructure that contribute to physical health, mental well-being, social cohesion, environmental quality, and aesthetic pleasure, collectively enhancing the quality of life for city residents.”
Urban park with diverse community activities
Describe an adventure sport you would like to try could be an interesting topic to explore when discussing outdoor activities in parks.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
Urban oasis /ˈɜːrbən əʊˈeɪsɪs/ (noun phrase): A peaceful, green area in a city.
Example: “Central Park is often described as an urban oasis in the heart of New York City.”To meander /miˈændər/ (verb): To follow a winding course.
Example: “I love to meander through the park’s winding paths on a lazy Sunday afternoon.”Tranquil atmosphere /ˈtræŋkwɪl ˈætməsfɪər/ (noun phrase): A calm and peaceful environment.
Example: “The tranquil atmosphere of the park provides a welcome respite from city life.”To epitomize /ɪˈpɪtəmaɪz/ (verb): To be a perfect example of something.
Example: “This park epitomizes the ideal balance between urban development and nature conservation.”Multifaceted /ˌmʌltiˈfæsɪtɪd/ (adjective): Having many different aspects or features.
Example: “Urban parks often serve a multifaceted role in city life, offering recreational, environmental, and social benefits.”
Describe a food you disliked but now enjoy is another topic that allows you to demonstrate your ability to discuss personal experiences and changes over time.
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test when discussing topics like parks:
Use descriptive language: Incorporate vivid adjectives and specific details to paint a clear picture of the park and your experiences there.
Demonstrate range: Use a variety of vocabulary and grammatical structures to showcase your language proficiency.
Provide thoughtful responses: Don’t just describe the park; explain its significance and impact on you and the community.
Stay coherent and fluent: Organize your thoughts logically and speak at a natural pace with minimal hesitation.
Engage with the topic: Show genuine interest and enthusiasm when discussing the park and related questions.
Practice regularly: Familiarize yourself with common IELTS topics and practice describing various aspects of parks and outdoor spaces.
By following these tips and incorporating the suggested vocabulary and phrases, you’ll be well-prepared to discuss parks and similar topics in your IELTS Speaking test, potentially achieving a high band score.
Describe an online video that taught you something new could be related to learning about parks or outdoor activities through digital media.
Describe a memorable weekend you had recently might involve discussing a weekend spent in a park, connecting it to our main topic.