The topic “describe a piece of furniture you own” is a popular one in IELTS Speaking exams, particularly in Part 2. It has appeared in various forms over the years and is likely to continue being a recurring theme. This topic allows examiners to assess your ability to describe objects in detail, express personal preferences, and discuss practical aspects of everyday life.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, the examiner may ask general questions about furniture to warm you up for the main topic. Here are some common questions you might encounter:
- What type of furniture do you have in your home?
- Do you prefer modern or traditional furniture?
- Have you ever bought furniture online?
Let’s look at a sample answer for the second question:
Examiner: Do you prefer modern or traditional furniture?
Band 6-7 Answer:
I generally prefer modern furniture. I find it more practical and suitable for my lifestyle. Modern furniture often has clean lines and multifunctional designs, which work well in smaller apartments like mine. However, I do appreciate some traditional pieces for their craftsmanship and historical value.
Band 8-9 Answer:
I’d say I have a penchant for a harmonious blend of both modern and traditional furniture. While I’m drawn to the sleek aesthetics and ergonomic designs of contemporary pieces, I also have a deep appreciation for the intricate craftsmanship and timeless elegance of traditional furniture. I believe that juxtaposing these styles can create a unique and personalized living space that reflects both innovation and heritage.
Part 2: Long Turn
Here’s a sample cue card for this topic:
Describe a piece of furniture you own
You should say:
- What it is
- When and where you got it
- What it looks like
- And explain why this piece of furniture is important to youBand 6-7 Sample Answer:
The piece of furniture I’d like to talk about is my desk. I bought it about three years ago from a local furniture store when I moved into my current apartment. It’s a medium-sized wooden desk with a light brown color. The desk has two drawers on the right side for storage and a sleek, modern design.
This desk is important to me because it’s where I do most of my work and studying. It’s comfortable and provides enough space for my laptop, books, and other materials. I spend several hours each day at this desk, so it plays a significant role in my daily life. Also, it was one of the first pieces of furniture I bought for my new place, so it holds some sentimental value.
Band 8-9 Sample Answer:
I’d be delighted to describe a cherished piece of furniture I own – my vintage writing desk. I serendipitously discovered this exquisite piece at an antique market in the quaint town of Cambridge about five years ago, during a memorable weekend getaway.
This desk is a true work of art, crafted from rich mahogany with intricate inlays of lighter woods creating delicate floral patterns across its surface. It features three spacious drawers adorned with ornate brass handles, and the desktop is covered in supple green leather, now beautifully patinated with age. The gracefully curved legs terminate in brass claw feet, adding a touch of whimsy to its overall elegant demeanor.
This piece of furniture holds immense importance to me for several reasons. Firstly, it serves as my creative sanctuary, where I pen my thoughts and ideas, fostering my passion for writing. Moreover, it’s a tangible connection to history, with each scratch and mark telling a story of its past owners and the eras it has witnessed. The desk also represents my personal aesthetic, blending functionality with beauty in a way that resonates deeply with my values. Lastly, the process of discovering and acquiring this desk encapsulates a cherished memory of exploration and the joy of finding something truly special, making it not just a piece of furniture, but a repository of personal significance.
Follow-up questions:
- How has this piece of furniture affected your daily routine?
- Would you consider replacing this furniture in the future?
Band 6-7 Answer:
This desk has had a positive impact on my daily routine. It provides a dedicated space for work and study, which helps me stay focused and organized. As for replacing it, I might consider it if I move to a bigger place or if my needs change, but for now, I’m very satisfied with it.
Band 8-9 Answer:
This writing desk has profoundly influenced my daily routine, serving as a catalyst for creativity and a cornerstone of productivity. Its mere presence evokes a sense of inspiration, encouraging me to engage in daily writing practices and pursue intellectual endeavors. Regarding replacement, I view this piece as an heirloom-in-the-making rather than a temporary fixture. Its timeless design and sentimental value far outweigh any potential desire for change. In fact, I anticipate this desk becoming a cherished family legacy, passed down through generations as a testament to the enduring power of craftsmanship and the value of preserving history.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Examiner: How has furniture design changed over the years?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Furniture design has changed quite a lot over the years. In the past, furniture was often heavy and ornate, made to last for generations. Nowadays, we see more minimalist designs with clean lines and lighter materials. There’s also a greater focus on functionality, with many pieces serving multiple purposes to save space in smaller homes.
Band 8-9 Answer:
The evolution of furniture design over the years has been nothing short of remarkable. We’ve witnessed a paradigm shift from the ornate, labor-intensive craftsmanship of traditional furniture to more streamlined, multifunctional pieces that reflect our contemporary lifestyles. This transformation has been driven by several factors, including technological advancements in materials and manufacturing processes, changing aesthetic preferences, and the growing emphasis on sustainability.
In recent decades, we’ve seen the rise of modular furniture that adapts to various spaces and needs, smart furniture integrated with technology, and an increased focus on ergonomics to promote health and well-being. Moreover, there’s been a resurgence of interest in artisanal and bespoke pieces, reflecting a desire for uniqueness and a connection to craftsmanship in our increasingly mass-produced world.
Perhaps most significantly, sustainable design has become a cornerstone of modern furniture creation, with designers exploring eco-friendly materials, circular economy principles, and energy-efficient production methods. This shift not only reflects changing consumer values but also addresses the urgent need for more environmentally responsible practices in all aspects of our lives.
Examiner: Do you think handmade furniture will become more or less popular in the future?
Band 6-7 Answer:
I believe handmade furniture might become more popular in the future. As mass-produced items become more common, people are starting to appreciate unique, handcrafted pieces more. Handmade furniture often has better quality and a personal touch that you can’t get with factory-made items. Also, with growing environmental concerns, more people might choose handmade furniture made from sustainable materials.
Band 8-9 Answer:
I’m inclined to believe that handmade furniture will experience a significant resurgence in popularity in the coming years, driven by several interconnected factors. Firstly, there’s a growing societal shift towards authenticity and individuality, with consumers increasingly valuing unique, personalized items over mass-produced goods. Handmade furniture, with its inherent variations and imperfections, perfectly embodies this desire for distinctiveness.
Secondly, the rising awareness of environmental issues is likely to boost the appeal of handcrafted furniture. Artisanal pieces often utilize sustainable, locally-sourced materials and employ traditional, low-impact production methods, aligning with the principles of conscious consumption and reduced carbon footprint.
Moreover, the digital age paradox comes into play here. As our lives become increasingly digital, there’s a counter-movement seeking tangible, analog experiences. Handmade furniture, with its tactile qualities and the story of its creation, offers a refreshing antidote to our screen-dominated world.
Lastly, the gig economy and maker movement are fostering a new generation of skilled artisans, making handcrafted furniture more accessible. This democratization of craftsmanship, coupled with online platforms connecting makers directly with consumers, is likely to fuel demand for bespoke, handmade pieces.
In essence, while mass-produced furniture will undoubtedly retain its market share, I anticipate a parallel growth in the handmade sector, reflecting a broader cultural shift towards mindful consumption, sustainability, and appreciation for craftsmanship.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
-
Exquisite /ɪkˈskwɪzɪt/ (adj): Extremely beautiful and carefully made.
Example: The exquisite detailing on the armchair set it apart from mass-produced furniture. -
Ergonomic /ˌɜːrɡəˈnɑːmɪk/ (adj): Designed for efficiency and comfort in the working environment.
Example: My new office chair has an ergonomic design that supports good posture. -
Patina /pəˈtiːnə/ (n): A thin layer that forms on the surface of some metals or woods, often valued for its aesthetic appeal.
Example: The antique table had developed a beautiful patina over the years, enhancing its character. -
Juxtapose /ˈdʒʌkstəpoʊz/ (v): To place different things side by side, especially to compare them or to create an interesting effect.
Example: The interior designer skillfully juxtaposed modern and traditional furniture pieces in the living room. -
Bespoke /bɪˈspoʊk/ (adj): Custom-made; made to order.
Example: We commissioned a bespoke dining table to fit perfectly in our uniquely shaped room.
describe an area in your home where you feel most comfortable
Examiner’s Advice:
To excel in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when describing furniture or other objects, focus on developing rich, detailed descriptions. Practice using a variety of adjectives and idiomatic expressions to bring your descriptions to life. Additionally, strive to connect the object to broader themes or personal experiences, as this demonstrates higher-level thinking and language skills. Regular practice with a variety of topics will help you become more confident and fluent in your responses.
describe an antique that your family has kept for a long time
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Speaking is not just about using advanced vocabulary, but also about expressing your ideas clearly, coherently, and with genuine engagement in the topic. Good luck with your IELTS preparation!