The topic of describing a place in your city that you would like to improve is a common one in IELTS Speaking tests. It allows examiners to assess your ability to discuss local issues, express opinions, and suggest solutions. This topic has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to continue being a popular choice in future tests.
Describe a plant or flower that you find beautiful can be an excellent way to practice descriptive language, which is also useful when discussing urban improvements. Let’s explore how to approach this topic effectively in each part of the IELTS Speaking test.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, the examiner may ask some general questions about your city or neighborhood. Here’s a sample question with a suggested answer:
Question: “What do you like or dislike about the area where you live?”
Sample Answer (Band 7-8):
“I appreciate the convenience of living in a central area, with easy access to public transportation and various amenities. However, I must admit that the lack of green spaces is a significant drawback. It would be wonderful to have more parks or community gardens where residents could relax and connect with nature.”
Part 2: Long Turn
Here’s a sample cue card for this topic:
Describe A Place In Your City That You Would Like To Improve
You should say:
- Where this place is
- What it looks like now
- What improvements you would like to see
- And explain why you think these improvements are necessary
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to talk about the old industrial area near the city center, which I believe is in dire need of redevelopment. This area, located just a mile east of our main square, is currently a dilapidated collection of abandoned factories and warehouses, covering about 20 acres.
At present, it’s a rather unsightly sight. The buildings are in various states of disrepair, with broken windows, crumbling brickwork, and rusting metal structures. The area is fenced off, but it’s still a magnet for vandalism and has become something of an eyesore in our otherwise vibrant city.
In terms of improvements, I envision a comprehensive urban renewal project. Firstly, I’d like to see the area transformed into a mixed-use development, combining residential, commercial, and recreational spaces. This could include affordable housing units, small business incubators, and a large central park. I also think it’s crucial to preserve some of the industrial heritage, perhaps by repurposing a few of the more structurally sound buildings into museums or art galleries.
These improvements are necessary for several reasons. Primarily, it would revitalize a currently unused area, bringing new life and economic opportunities to the city center. The affordable housing would help address our city’s growing accommodation crisis, while the green spaces would significantly enhance the quality of life for residents. Moreover, by preserving some of the industrial architecture, we’d be maintaining a link to our city’s history, which I believe is important for our cultural identity.
In conclusion, transforming this neglected industrial zone into a thriving, multi-purpose area would not only beautify our city but also provide numerous social and economic benefits to our community.”
Follow-up questions:
- What challenges might the city face in implementing these improvements?
- How could the local community be involved in this redevelopment project?
Sample Answers:
- (Band 7-8) “The city might face financial constraints and potential opposition from property owners. There could also be environmental concerns if the industrial site is contaminated.”
(Band 8-9) “The city would likely encounter a myriad of challenges. Firstly, securing adequate funding for such a large-scale project could be daunting, especially in times of economic uncertainty. Additionally, there might be complex legal issues regarding property rights and zoning laws. Environmental concerns are another crucial factor; the site may require extensive decontamination due to its industrial past, which could significantly inflate costs and extend timelines. Moreover, there might be resistance from various stakeholders, such as preservationists concerned about losing historical structures or nearby residents worried about construction disruptions and potential gentrification.”
- (Band 7-8) “The local community could be involved through public consultations, volunteering for clean-up efforts, and participating in design workshops to share their ideas for the space.”
(Band 8-9) “Community involvement could be multi-faceted and integral to the project’s success. The city could establish a community advisory board to ensure local voices are heard throughout the planning and implementation processes. Public forums and design charrettes could be organized to gather innovative ideas and address concerns. Local schools and universities could be engaged in research projects related to the area’s history and potential future uses. Community members could also be involved in hands-on aspects of the redevelopment, such as participating in archaeological digs, helping with environmental clean-up efforts, or contributing to public art installations. This level of engagement would not only harness local knowledge and skills but also foster a sense of ownership and pride in the rejuvenated space.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In Part 3, the examiner might ask more abstract questions related to urban development and city planning. Here’s an example:
Question: “What role should governments play in improving urban areas?”
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“Governments have a pivotal role to play in urban improvement, as they possess the authority and resources to implement large-scale changes. Firstly, they should act as visionaries, developing comprehensive, long-term plans for sustainable urban development that balance economic growth with environmental preservation and social equity.
Secondly, governments need to serve as facilitators, creating frameworks that encourage private sector investment in urban renewal projects. This could involve offering tax incentives, streamlining bureaucratic processes, or establishing public-private partnerships.
Moreover, governments should function as regulators, ensuring that urban development adheres to safety standards, environmental regulations, and inclusive practices. This includes implementing and enforcing zoning laws, building codes, and accessibility requirements.
Describe a time when you felt lost but found a solution is relevant here, as urban planning often involves navigating complex challenges. Governments must be prepared to adapt their strategies when faced with unexpected obstacles or changing circumstances.
Lastly, governments have a responsibility to act as stewards of public interest. This means prioritizing projects that benefit the wider community, such as improving public transportation, creating green spaces, or revitalizing neglected neighborhoods. By fulfilling these multifaceted roles, governments can significantly contribute to creating more livable, sustainable, and prosperous urban environments.”
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
To achieve a high score in IELTS Speaking, it’s crucial to use a range of sophisticated vocabulary and complex sentence structures. Here are some key terms and phrases related to urban improvement:
Urban renewal (noun) /ˈɜːrbən rɪˈnjuːəl/ – The process of improving and modernizing a city area
Example: “The urban renewal project transformed the dilapidated neighborhood into a thriving community hub.”Revitalize (verb) /ˌriːˈvaɪtəlaɪz/ – To give new life or vigor to
Example: “The new cultural center helped to revitalize the downtown area.”Gentrification (noun) /ˌdʒentrɪfɪˈkeɪʃn/ – The process of renovating and improving a house or district so that it conforms to middle-class taste
Example: “While the area’s gentrification brought new businesses, it also raised concerns about affordable housing.”Sustainable development (noun) /səˈsteɪnəbl dɪˈveləpmənt/ – Development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs
Example: “The city’s new master plan focuses on sustainable development, incorporating green spaces and renewable energy sources.”Infrastructure (noun) /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃər/ – The basic physical and organizational structures and facilities needed for the operation of a society or enterprise
Example: “Improving the city’s infrastructure, particularly public transportation, is crucial for economic growth.”
Describe a mountain you want to visit can help you practice using descriptive language, which is also valuable when discussing urban landscapes and potential improvements.
Examiner’s Advice
To excel in the IELTS Speaking test when discussing urban improvements:
- Use a variety of descriptive adjectives to paint a vivid picture of the place you’re describing.
- Demonstrate critical thinking by explaining the reasons behind your suggested improvements and their potential impacts.
- Use complex sentence structures and advanced vocabulary to showcase your language proficiency.
- Practice discussing both the positive and negative aspects of urban development to show balanced thinking.
- Relate the topic to broader themes such as sustainability, community well-being, or economic development to demonstrate depth of thought.
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Speaking is not just about what you say, but how you say it. Aim for fluency, coherence, and a natural conversational style while incorporating sophisticated language structures.
Describe a person who is always optimistic can be a great way to practice using positive language, which can be applied when discussing the potential benefits of urban improvements.
By following these guidelines and practicing regularly, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle any question about urban improvements in your IELTS Speaking test.
