How to Excel at Describing a Place in Your Country That Has Changed Over Time in IELTS Speaking

As an IELTS examiner, I’ve noticed that questions about places that have undergone changes are increasingly common in the Speaking test. This topic allows candidates to showcase their vocabulary, fluency, and ability to describe transformations over time. Let’s explore how to tackle this topic effectively across all parts of the IELTS Speaking test.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about changes in your local area. Here are some typical questions:

1. Have you noticed any changes in your hometown recently?
2. Do you think your local area has changed much in the last few years?
3. What kind of changes would you like to see in your area?

Let’s look at a sample answer for the first question:

Examiner: Have you noticed any changes in your hometown recently?

Sample Answer (Band 6-7):
Yes, I have. My hometown has seen quite a few changes lately. The most noticeable one is the construction of a new shopping mall in the city center. It’s brought more shops and entertainment options to our area. Also, the local government has been improving the roads, which has made traffic a bit better.

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
Absolutely. My hometown has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years. The most striking change has been the redevelopment of our waterfront area. What was once a dilapidated industrial zone has been revitalized into a vibrant public space with parks, cafes, and cultural venues. This urban renewal project has not only enhanced the aesthetics of our city but also boosted tourism and improved the quality of life for residents.

Waterfront transformation

Part 2: Long Turn

Here’s a sample cue card related to our topic:

Describe A Place In Your Country That Has Changed Over Time
You should say:

• Where this place is
• How it has changed
• Why it has changed
• And explain how you feel about these changes

Sample Answer (Band 6-7):
I’d like to talk about my hometown, Hanoi, which has changed a lot over the years. It’s the capital city of Vietnam, located in the northern part of the country.

Hanoi has changed in many ways. The biggest change is probably the number of tall buildings that have been built. When I was young, there weren’t many high-rise buildings, but now you can see them everywhere, especially in the newer parts of the city.

Another big change is the traffic. There are so many more cars and motorbikes on the roads now compared to the past. This has made the city more crowded and busier.

I think these changes have happened because of economic growth. Vietnam’s economy has been developing fast, and this has led to more construction and more people being able to afford vehicles.

As for how I feel about these changes, I have mixed feelings. On one hand, I’m happy to see my city developing and becoming more modern. The new buildings and improved infrastructure make life more convenient in many ways. But on the other hand, I sometimes miss the quieter, more traditional feel that Hanoi used to have. I worry that we might be losing some of our cultural heritage as the city becomes more modernized.

Overall, though, I think the changes are mostly positive. They represent progress for our country, and I’m excited to see how Hanoi will continue to develop in the future.

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
I’d like to describe the dramatic transformation of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site located on the central coast of Vietnam. This picturesque town has undergone significant changes over the past few decades, evolving from a relatively obscure fishing village to a bustling tourist destination.

The most striking change in Hoi An has been its transition from a primarily agricultural and fishing economy to one heavily reliant on tourism. The ancient town, with its well-preserved architecture dating back to the 15th century, has been meticulously restored. Dilapidated buildings have been revitalized, their yellow-hued facades now gleaming under lantern-lit streets. The once-quiet thoroughfares are now lined with boutique hotels, artisanal craft shops, and trendy cafes.

This metamorphosis has largely been driven by Hoi An’s designation as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1999, which catapulted it onto the global tourism stage. The local government, recognizing the town’s potential as a cultural gem, implemented policies to preserve its historical integrity while also developing infrastructure to accommodate the influx of visitors.

My feelings about these changes are somewhat ambivalent. On one hand, I’m thrilled to see Hoi An receiving the recognition it deserves for its rich history and cultural significance. The economic benefits brought by tourism have undoubtedly improved the lives of many local residents. However, I can’t help but feel a tinge of nostalgia for the quaint, unhurried atmosphere that once characterized the town. There’s a concern that the influx of tourists might be eroding the authentic charm that made Hoi An special in the first place.

Despite these reservations, I believe the overall impact of these changes has been positive. The preservation efforts have ensured that future generations can appreciate Hoi An’s unique heritage, while the economic benefits have brought prosperity to the region. It’s a delicate balance, but one that I think Hoi An has managed to strike rather successfully.

Examiner’s Follow-up Questions:

1. Do you think the changes in Hoi An have been mostly positive or negative?
2. How do you think tourism has affected the local culture?
3. What measures do you think should be taken to preserve the authenticity of places like Hoi An?

Sample Answers (Band 6-7):

1. I think the changes have been mostly positive. The town has become more prosperous, and many old buildings have been saved because of tourism.

2. Tourism has affected the local culture in both good and bad ways. It’s helped keep traditional crafts alive, but some local customs might be changing to cater to tourists.

3. I believe the government should have strict rules about new buildings and renovations. They should also encourage local people to maintain their traditional way of life.

Sample Answers (Band 8-9):

1. While the changes in Hoi An have been predominantly positive, bringing economic prosperity and global recognition, they’re not without their drawbacks. The influx of tourism has undeniably boosted the local economy and funded vital restoration projects. However, we must remain vigilant about the potential oversaturation of the town and the risk of it becoming a tourist trap rather than a living, breathing community.

2. Tourism has had a profound impact on local culture, acting as both a preservative force and a catalyst for change. On the positive side, it has revitalized interest in traditional crafts and customs, providing artisans with a sustainable livelihood. Conversely, there’s a risk of cultural commodification, where aspects of local culture are packaged and presented primarily for tourist consumption, potentially diluting their authenticity.

3. To preserve Hoi An’s authenticity, a multi-faceted approach is crucial. Firstly, stringent regulations on architectural preservation and development should be rigorously enforced. Secondly, there should be a focus on sustainable tourism practices that prioritize the needs of the local community. Finally, educational initiatives should be implemented to raise awareness among both tourists and locals about the importance of cultural preservation. It’s about striking a delicate balance between economic development and cultural integrity.

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

Examiner: Let’s talk more about changes in places. Do you think it’s important for cities to preserve their historical areas?

Sample Answer (Band 6-7):
Yes, I think it’s very important for cities to preserve their historical areas. These places are part of a city’s identity and culture. They help us understand our past and where we came from. Also, historical areas often attract tourists, which can be good for the local economy. However, it can be challenging to maintain old buildings and areas, especially when cities need to develop and modernize.

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
Absolutely, I believe the preservation of historical areas is paramount for several reasons. Firstly, these areas serve as tangible links to our past, offering invaluable insights into our cultural heritage and societal evolution. They act as living museums, allowing current and future generations to connect with their roots and understand the historical context that has shaped their present.

Moreover, the preservation of historical areas can have significant economic benefits. Well-maintained historical districts often become major tourist attractions, boosting local economies through increased visitor spending. Cities like Rome or Kyoto are prime examples of how historical preservation can be a cornerstone of tourism.

However, it’s crucial to approach preservation with a balanced perspective. While maintaining historical integrity is important, cities must also evolve to meet the changing needs of their inhabitants. The challenge lies in striking a harmonious balance between preservation and progress, perhaps through adaptive reuse of historical buildings or integrating modern amenities in a way that doesn’t compromise the area’s historical character.

In essence, preserving historical areas is not just about maintaining old buildings; it’s about safeguarding our cultural narrative, fostering community identity, and ensuring sustainable urban development that respects both the past and the future.

Examiner: How can governments balance the need for modernization with preserving traditional aspects of a city?

Sample Answer (Band 6-7):
Governments can balance modernization and preservation in several ways. They can make laws to protect important old buildings and areas. At the same time, they can allow new developments in other parts of the city. It’s also important to involve local people in decisions about changes to their city. Governments could also use new technology to make old buildings more efficient without changing how they look.

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
Balancing modernization with preservation is indeed a complex challenge that requires a nuanced approach. Governments can employ several strategies to achieve this delicate equilibrium:

1. Zoning and Urban Planning: Implementing comprehensive zoning laws that designate certain areas for preservation while allowing modernization in others. This could involve creating buffer zones around historical districts to ensure new developments don’t encroach on or overshadow heritage sites.

2. Adaptive Reuse: Encouraging the repurposing of historical buildings for modern uses while maintaining their architectural integrity. This approach breathes new life into old structures, making them relevant to contemporary needs without sacrificing their historical value.

3. Public-Private Partnerships: Collaborating with private sector entities to fund restoration projects or develop areas in a way that respects the city’s heritage. This can help alleviate the financial burden on governments while ensuring responsible development.

4. Technology Integration: Utilizing cutting-edge technologies to modernize the infrastructure of historical areas without altering their appearance. For instance, implementing smart city solutions for traffic management or energy efficiency in heritage zones.

5. Community Engagement: Involving local communities in the decision-making process through public consultations and participatory planning. This ensures that modernization efforts align with the needs and values of the residents.

6. Cultural Heritage Impact Assessments: Conducting thorough assessments before any major development project to evaluate its potential impact on the city’s cultural and historical fabric.

7. Education and Awareness: Promoting public understanding of the importance of heritage preservation through educational programs and awareness campaigns.

By adopting such a multi-faceted approach, governments can strive to create cities that are both modern and livable, while still retaining their unique character and historical significance. The key lies in viewing preservation not as an obstacle to progress, but as an integral part of sustainable urban development.

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

1. Transformation (noun) /ˌtrænsfəˈmeɪʃən/ – a complete change in the appearance or character of something or someone
   Example: The city underwent a remarkable transformation in just a decade.

2. Revitalize (verb) /ˌriːˈvaɪtəlaɪz/ – to give new life or vigor to
   Example: The government’s initiative helped revitalize the neglected historical district.

3. Gentrification (noun) /ˌdʒentrɪfɪˈkeɪʃən/ – the process of changing a poor urban area by wealthier people moving in, improving housing, and attracting new businesses
   Example: The rapid gentrification of the neighborhood has led to mixed reactions from long-time residents.

4. Urban renewal (noun) /ˈɜːbən rɪˈnjuːəl/ – the process of redeveloping areas in a city, typically involving the demolition of old or run-down buildings and their replacement with new ones
   Example: The urban renewal project aims to transform the dilapidated waterfront into a vibrant public space.

5. Heritage (noun) /ˈherɪtɪdʒ/ – features belonging to the culture of a particular society, such as traditions, languages, or buildings, that were created in the past and still have historical importance
   Example: Preserving our cultural heritage is crucial for maintaining our national identity.

6. Sustainable development (noun) /səˈsteɪnəbl dɪˈveləpmənt/ – economic development that is conducted without depletion of natural resources
   Example: The city’s new plan focuses on sustainable development to ensure long-term prosperity.

Examiner’s Advice

To excel in describing places that have changed over time in the IELTS Speaking test:

1. Develop a rich vocabulary: Use a variety of descriptive words and phrases to vividly portray the changes.

2. Structure your answer: Organize your thoughts logically, discussing the place before and after the changes, reasons for the changes, and your personal opinion.

3. Use specific examples: Provide concrete details to support your points and make your description more engaging.

4. Practice tenses: Be comfortable using different tenses to discuss past and present states, as well as ongoing changes.

5. Express balanced views: Show your ability to consider both positive and negative aspects of the changes.

6. Relate to broader themes: Connect the specific changes to wider issues like urbanization, globalization, or cultural preservation.

7. Use idiomatic expressions: Incorporate relevant idioms or collocations to demonstrate language proficiency.

Remember, the key to success is not just knowing what to say, but how to say it fluently and coherently. Regular practice with a variety of topics will help you build the confidence and skills needed to excel in the IELTS Speaking test.

For more insights on describing cultural aspects of your country, you might find it helpful to read about describing a famous cultural event in your country or describing a place in your country famous for its art.