The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about places, travel, and personal experiences. One common topic that candidates may encounter is describing a place in their country they want to explore. This topic not only tests your ability to describe locations but also allows you to showcase your knowledge of your own country and culture. Let’s dive into how you can excel in this speaking task and achieve a high band score.
Describe a time when you had to use a map can be a related topic that might come up in your IELTS Speaking test. Being prepared for such questions will help you feel more confident during the exam.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask you some general questions about places and travel. Here are a few examples:
- Do you like traveling?
- What kind of places do you usually visit?
- Is there a place in your country you haven’t been to but would like to visit?
Let’s focus on the third question and provide a sample answer:
Sample Answer (Band 7-8):
“Yes, actually, there’s a place I’ve been dying to visit for quite some time now. It’s Ha Giang, a province in the northernmost part of Vietnam. I’ve heard wonders about its breathtaking landscapes, with limestone mountains, winding roads, and terraced rice fields. What fascinates me most is the opportunity to experience the unique cultures of ethnic minorities living there. I’m particularly intrigued by the idea of exploring the Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark, which I’ve seen in so many stunning photographs.”
Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)
Here’s a possible cue card related to our topic:
Describe a place in your country that you want to explore
You should say:
- Where it is
- What you know about this place
- Why you want to go there
- And explain how you plan to get there
Sample Answer (Band 6-7):
“I’d like to talk about Son Doong Cave, which is a place in my country that I’m really eager to explore. It’s located in Quang Binh province, in central Vietnam.
Son Doong is known as the world’s largest cave, and it was only discovered relatively recently, in 1991. It’s so massive that it has its own ecosystem inside, complete with a jungle and a river. I’ve seen photos of enormous stalactites and stalagmites that look like they’re from another planet.
The main reason I want to go there is because of its unique beauty and the sense of adventure it offers. The idea of exploring such a vast underground world really excites me. Plus, as a nature lover, I’m fascinated by the rare plants and animals that have been found in the cave.
As for how I plan to get there, it’s quite a journey. First, I’d need to fly to Dong Hoi, the nearest airport. From there, it’s a drive to Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. The cave itself can only be accessed through organized tours, which involve a long trek through the jungle. It’s not an easy trip, but I think the experience would be worth the effort.”
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d be delighted to share with you about Son Doong Cave, an awe-inspiring natural wonder in my country that I’m absolutely itching to explore. This geological marvel is nestled in the heart of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, in the central province of Quang Binh, Vietnam.
Son Doong, which translates to ‘Mountain River Cave’, is renowned for being the world’s largest cave. Discovered in 1991 by a local man named Ho Khanh, it wasn’t until 2009 that a team of British cavers fully explored its vast chambers. The cave is so colossal that it could house an entire New York City block, complete with 40-story skyscrapers. What truly fascinates me is its unique ecosystem – it boasts its own jungle, river, and climate, creating a surreal underground world.
The primary allure of Son Doong for me lies in its pristine beauty and the unparalleled adventure it promises. The prospect of venturing into this subterranean realm, with its otherworldly landscapes of towering stalagmites and ethereal sunbeams filtering through sinkholes, is utterly captivating. As someone with a deep appreciation for nature’s marvels and a keen interest in geology, the opportunity to witness firsthand the rare flora and fauna that have adapted to this unique environment is incredibly exciting.
Planning a trip to Son Doong is no small feat, as access is strictly limited to preserve its delicate ecosystem. My itinerary would begin with a flight to Dong Hoi Airport, followed by a drive to the national park. From there, I’d join a specialized expedition led by experienced guides. The journey involves a challenging trek through dense jungle, river crossings, and camping in the cave itself. While it’s certainly not a walk in the park, I believe the once-in-a-lifetime experience of exploring this natural wonder would be well worth the physical exertion and meticulous planning required.”
Son Doong Cave – World's Largest Cave in Vietnam
Follow-up Questions:
- What challenges might you face during this trip?
- How do you think this experience might change you?
Sample Answers (Band 8-9):
“The primary challenges I anticipate are both physical and mental. Physically, the trek to and through Son Doong is incredibly demanding, requiring a high level of fitness to navigate the rugged terrain and climb steep cave walls. Mentally, spending several days in a subterranean environment can be psychologically taxing, as one must adapt to the darkness and confined spaces. Additionally, the remote location means limited access to modern amenities, which could be challenging for those accustomed to urban comforts. However, I believe these challenges are part of what makes the experience so rewarding and transformative.”
“I believe this experience would be profoundly impactful. Firstly, it would heighten my appreciation for the raw power and beauty of nature, seeing firsthand how such an extraordinary environment can exist hidden from the world. Secondly, overcoming the physical and mental challenges would likely boost my self-confidence and resilience. Lastly, being in such a pristine, untouched environment might shift my perspective on conservation and our role in protecting these natural wonders. I imagine I’d return with a renewed sense of wonder for the world and a stronger commitment to environmental preservation.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In this section, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:
Examiner: How do you think tourism affects unexplored places?
Sample Answer (Band 7-8):
“Tourism can have both positive and negative impacts on unexplored places. On the positive side, it can bring economic benefits to local communities and raise awareness about the importance of preserving natural wonders. However, there are also significant risks. Increased foot traffic can damage delicate ecosystems, and the development of tourism infrastructure can alter the landscape. There’s also the risk of cultural erosion if local traditions are commodified for tourists. It’s crucial to find a balance between allowing people to experience these amazing places and protecting them for future generations.”
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“The impact of tourism on unexplored places is a complex issue with multifaceted implications. On one hand, tourism can be a powerful economic driver, bringing much-needed revenue and employment opportunities to often remote and underdeveloped areas. It can also foster greater appreciation for these natural wonders, potentially leading to increased support for conservation efforts.
However, the flip side of this coin presents significant concerns. Uncontrolled tourism can lead to environmental degradation through erosion, pollution, and disruption of delicate ecosystems. There’s also the risk of over-commercialization, where the authenticity and natural beauty of a place are compromised to cater to tourist expectations.
Moreover, there’s a delicate balance to be struck between preservation and access. While it’s important for people to experience these marvels firsthand, unrestricted access can lead to their destruction. This is particularly pertinent for places like Son Doong Cave, where limited, carefully managed tours are crucial to maintaining its pristine condition.
Ultimately, I believe the key lies in sustainable tourism practices that prioritize conservation while still allowing for meaningful visitor experiences. This might involve strict quotas, eco-friendly infrastructure, and educational programs that instill a sense of responsibility in visitors. By treading lightly and respecting these natural treasures, we can hopefully strike a balance between exploration and preservation.”
Describe a tourist attraction that you would like to visit is another topic that could come up in your IELTS Speaking test, allowing you to further showcase your ability to describe places and express your travel aspirations.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
To boost your IELTS Speaking score, incorporate these advanced vocabulary items and phrases:
Awe-inspiring /ˈɔː.ɪnˌspaɪə.rɪŋ/ (adjective): Extremely impressive or daunting; inspiring great admiration.
Example: “The Grand Canyon is an awe-inspiring natural wonder.”Geological marvel /dʒiːəˈlɒdʒɪkəl ˈmɑːvəl/ (noun phrase): A natural formation that is remarkably impressive from a geological perspective.
Example: “The Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland is considered a geological marvel.”Pristine /ˈprɪstiːn/ (adjective): In its original condition; unspoiled.
Example: “The beach was pristine, without a single piece of litter in sight.”Surreal /səˈrɪəl/ (adjective): Having the qualities of surrealism; bizarre, dreamlike.
Example: “Walking through the ancient ruins at night was a surreal experience.”Unparalleled /ʌnˈpærəleld/ (adjective): Having no equal; unmatched.
Example: “The view from the mountaintop was unparalleled in its beauty.”
Describe a time when you made a good decision could be another interesting topic to practice, as it allows you to demonstrate your decision-making skills and use of advanced vocabulary in a different context.
Tips from an IELTS Examiner
As an experienced IELTS examiner, here are my top tips for excelling in the Speaking test:
Practice regularly: Set aside time each day to speak English, even if it’s just talking to yourself.
Expand your vocabulary: Learn new words and phrases related to common IELTS topics and practice using them in context.
Use a variety of sentence structures: Mix simple, compound, and complex sentences to demonstrate your language proficiency.
Be specific and detailed: When describing places or experiences, provide vivid details to make your answers more engaging.
Stay on topic: Make sure your answers are relevant to the question asked.
Speak confidently: Even if you’re not sure about something, try to maintain a confident tone.
Use fillers appropriately: Phrases like “Well,” “You see,” and “Actually” can give you time to think, but don’t overuse them.
Develop your ideas: Don’t just give short answers. Explain your thoughts and provide examples to support them.
Listen carefully: Make sure you understand the question before answering. It’s okay to ask for clarification if needed.
Be yourself: While it’s important to use advanced language, make sure your responses sound natural and authentic to you.
Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is not just about using fancy words, but about communicating your ideas clearly and effectively. With practice and preparation, you can confidently tackle any topic that comes your way.
Describe a place where you would like to travel is another excellent topic to practice, as it allows you to apply these tips and strategies in a different context while still focusing on describing places and travel experiences.