The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about everyday objects and personal preferences. One common topic that frequently appears is describing furniture in your home. This article will provide you with expert tips and sample answers to help you excel in describing a piece of furniture you like in your home during your IELTS Speaking exam.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask you some general questions about furniture. Here are a few example questions with suggested answers:
- What type of furniture do you have in your home?
- Do you prefer modern or traditional furniture?
- How often do you buy new furniture?
Let’s focus on answering the second question:
Examiner: Do you prefer modern or traditional furniture?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“I’d say I have a preference for modern furniture. I find that contemporary designs tend to be more functional and space-efficient, which is crucial in urban living. Plus, I’m drawn to the clean lines and minimalist aesthetics of modern pieces. That being said, I do appreciate the craftsmanship and character of traditional furniture, and I think a well-curated mix of both styles can create a really interesting and personalized living space.”
Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)
In this section, you’ll be given a cue card with a topic and some bullet points. Here’s an example related to describing a piece of furniture:
Describe a piece of furniture you like in your home
You should say:
- What it is
- Where you got it from
- What it looks like
- And explain why you like it
Sample answer (Band 6-7):
“I’d like to talk about my favorite piece of furniture, which is a vintage wooden bookshelf in my living room. I got this bookshelf from an antique store in the old part of town about five years ago. It immediately caught my eye because of its unique design and rich history.
The bookshelf is made of dark oak wood and stands about six feet tall. It has five shelves of varying sizes, with intricate carvings on the sides and top. The wood has a beautiful patina that comes from years of use, giving it a warm, lived-in feel.
I really like this piece of furniture for several reasons. Firstly, it’s not just functional but also a conversation starter. Whenever guests come over, they often comment on its beauty and ask about its history. Secondly, it adds character and warmth to my living room, making the space feel more inviting and personal. Lastly, I appreciate the craftsmanship that went into creating this bookshelf. It’s a reminder of the skill and attention to detail that artisans of the past possessed.
In conclusion, this vintage bookshelf is more than just a piece of furniture to me. It’s a cherished possession that brings beauty, functionality, and a sense of history to my home.”
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d be delighted to describe my favorite piece of furniture, which is an exquisite mid-century modern armchair that takes pride of place in my living room. I stumbled upon this gem at a high-end vintage furniture auction in London about three years ago, and it was love at first sight.
This armchair is a true masterpiece of design, crafted in the 1950s by a renowned Danish furniture maker. Its sleek, organic form is characterized by gently curved armrests and a slightly reclined backrest, all supported by tapered wooden legs. The frame is made of rich, warm teak, which has developed a gorgeous patina over the decades. The upholstery is a vibrant emerald green velvet, which adds a pop of color and luxury to the piece.
There are several reasons why I’m particularly fond of this armchair. Firstly, it epitomizes the elegance and functionality of mid-century modern design, a style I’ve always been passionate about. The chair’s ergonomic shape provides exceptional comfort without compromising on aesthetics. Secondly, it serves as a focal point in my living room, effortlessly elevating the overall ambiance of the space. Lastly, I appreciate how this piece seamlessly blends form and function, proving that everyday objects can indeed be works of art.
In essence, this armchair is not merely a piece of furniture but a testament to timeless design. It’s a daily reminder of the power of good craftsmanship and how a single, well-chosen item can transform a living space and bring joy to its owner.”
Follow-up questions:
- How has this piece of furniture influenced your home’s overall decor?
- Do you think the popularity of vintage furniture is increasing? Why or why not?
Sample answer for question 1 (Band 8-9):
“This mid-century modern armchair has had a significant impact on my home’s overall decor. It’s become the centerpiece around which I’ve built the rest of my living room’s aesthetic. The chair’s clean lines and organic form have inspired me to incorporate more pieces with similar design principles, creating a cohesive and harmonious space.
Moreover, the vibrant emerald green upholstery has encouraged me to be bolder with color choices throughout the room. I’ve introduced complementary hues in artwork and accessories, which has really brought the space to life. The warm teak wood has also influenced my choice of other wooden elements, ensuring a consistent tone and texture throughout.
Perhaps most importantly, this piece has elevated the overall sophistication of my home. It’s encouraged me to be more discerning in my furniture selections, opting for quality over quantity and focusing on pieces that tell a story or have historical significance. In essence, this armchair has been a catalyst for refining my personal style and creating a more thoughtfully curated living space.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In this section, the examiner will ask you more abstract questions related to the topic. Here’s an example:
Examiner: How do you think furniture choices reflect a person’s personality?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“I believe furniture choices can be quite revealing about a person’s personality and lifestyle. For instance, someone who opts for minimalist, functional pieces might value efficiency and simplicity in their daily life. On the other hand, a person who favors ornate, antique furniture might have a strong appreciation for history and craftsmanship.
The color palette one chooses for their furniture can also be indicative of their personality. Bold, vibrant colors might suggest an outgoing, expressive individual, while muted, neutral tones could reflect someone who prefers a calm, understated environment.
Moreover, the arrangement of furniture can offer insights into a person’s social nature. A living room set up with many seating options facing each other might indicate someone who enjoys hosting and socializing, while a layout focused around a TV or reading nook might suggest a more introverted personality.
It’s important to note, however, that these are generalizations, and furniture choices can be influenced by various factors beyond personality, such as budget, available space, or current trends. Nonetheless, I think our homes and the furniture we choose often serve as a canvas for self-expression, reflecting our tastes, values, and the way we want to present ourselves to the world.”
Key Vocabulary and Phrases
To enhance your speaking performance, incorporate these advanced words and phrases:
-
Epitomize /ɪˈpɪtəmaɪz/ (verb): To be a perfect example of something
Example: “This chair epitomizes mid-century modern design.” -
Aesthetics /esˈθetɪks/ (noun): The appreciation of beauty
Example: “I’m drawn to the clean aesthetics of Scandinavian furniture.” -
Ergonomic /ˌɜːrɡəˈnɑːmɪk/ (adjective): Designed for efficiency and comfort
Example: “The ergonomic design of this office chair prevents back pain.” -
Patina /pəˈtiːnə/ (noun): A surface appearance of something grown beautiful with age
Example: “The antique table has developed a lovely patina over the years.” -
Curate /ˈkjʊəreɪt/ (verb): To select, organize, and look after items
Example: “I carefully curate each piece of furniture in my home.”
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test when describing furniture:
- Use a wide range of vocabulary related to furniture, design, and personal preferences.
- Provide detailed descriptions, including materials, colors, styles, and dimensions.
- Explain your reasons for liking a piece of furniture using complex sentence structures.
- Connect your furniture description to broader themes like design trends or personal values.
- Practice speaking about different types of furniture to improve fluency and confidence.
Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is not just about describing the furniture itself, but also about demonstrating your ability to express ideas clearly and coherently in English.
describe an object you have owned for a long time
By following these tips and incorporating the sample answers and vocabulary provided, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle any question about furniture in your IELTS Speaking test. Good luck with your exam!