The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about places, and one common topic is describing a place in your country where you would like to live. This topic has appeared frequently in past IELTS exams and is likely to remain relevant in future tests. Let’s explore how to tackle this subject effectively to achieve a high score in your IELTS Speaking exam.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, the examiner may ask general questions about your current living situation and preferences. Here are some possible questions:
- Where do you currently live?
- Do you like the area where you live now?
- What kind of housing is common in your city?
- Would you prefer to live in the city or the countryside?
Let’s look at a sample answer for question 4:
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“While both urban and rural areas have their merits, I’m inclined towards city living. The vibrant atmosphere and diverse opportunities in cities resonate with my lifestyle. I appreciate the convenience of having various amenities within reach, from cultural venues to educational institutions. However, I do acknowledge that the countryside offers a more tranquil environment and closer connection to nature, which can be incredibly appealing for those seeking a slower pace of life.”
Urban vs Rural Living
Part 2: Long Turn
In this section, you’ll be given a cue card with a topic to speak about for 1-2 minutes. Here’s a sample cue card related to our main topic:
Describe a place in your country where you would like to live
You should say:
- Where this place is
- What it is like
- Why you would like to live there
- And explain how it differs from where you currently live
Sample answer (Band 6-7):
“I’d like to talk about Da Lat, a beautiful city in the Central Highlands of Vietnam. It’s known for its cool climate and lovely scenery. Da Lat has many pine forests and flower gardens, which make it very pretty. The weather there is nice all year round, not too hot like in other parts of Vietnam.
I want to live in Da Lat because it’s peaceful and has clean air. The city is famous for its fresh vegetables and flowers. There are also many nice cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy good food and drinks.
Da Lat is different from where I live now because it’s much quieter and less crowded. The lifestyle there is more relaxed, and people seem less rushed. Also, the architecture in Da Lat is unique, with many old French-style villas that give the city a special charm.
In summary, Da Lat’s natural beauty, pleasant climate, and relaxed atmosphere make it an ideal place for me to live.”
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to elaborate on Da Lat, a picturesque city nestled in the Central Highlands of Vietnam. Renowned for its temperate climate and breathtaking landscapes, Da Lat is often referred to as the ‘City of Eternal Spring’. The city is characterized by vast pine forests, vibrant flower gardens, and misty valleys that create an enchanting atmosphere.
The allure of Da Lat as a potential home lies in its harmonious blend of natural beauty and urban amenities. The city boasts a thriving agricultural sector, particularly famous for its high-quality vegetables and flowers. Moreover, its burgeoning café culture and diverse culinary scene offer a delightful mix of traditional and modern flavors.
What sets Da Lat apart from my current residence is its distinct ambiance and pace of life. The city exudes a sense of tranquility that’s hard to find in more bustling urban centers. Its architectural landscape is also uniquely captivating, featuring a plethora of French colonial villas that lend the city a nostalgic charm.
In essence, Da Lat’s combination of natural splendor, agreeable climate, and laid-back lifestyle makes it an ideal location for those seeking a more balanced and quality-driven way of life.”
Possible follow-up questions:
- How has tourism affected Da Lat?
- Do you think more people will move to cities like Da Lat in the future?
Sample answer for question 1 (Band 8-9):
“Tourism has undoubtedly had a significant impact on Da Lat. On the positive side, it has boosted the local economy, creating job opportunities and improving infrastructure. The influx of visitors has also led to the development of more diverse dining options and recreational activities, enhancing the city’s appeal.
However, there are also potential drawbacks to consider. The increasing number of tourists might put pressure on the city’s natural resources and potentially disrupt the peaceful atmosphere that makes Da Lat so attractive. There’s also a risk of over-commercialization, which could threaten the city’s unique character.
Balancing the benefits of tourism with the need to preserve Da Lat’s charm and natural beauty is a crucial challenge that local authorities and residents need to address to ensure the city’s sustainable development.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In this part, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some possible questions:
- How do you think cities in your country will change in the future?
- What factors do people consider when choosing a place to live?
- Do you think it’s better for people to live in the same place all their lives or to move around?
Let’s look at a sample answer for question 2:
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“People typically consider a multitude of factors when choosing a place to live, and these can vary significantly based on individual preferences and circumstances. However, some key considerations tend to be universally important.
Firstly, economic factors often play a crucial role. Job opportunities, cost of living, and potential for career growth are paramount for many. The affordability of housing, whether renting or buying, is also a major concern.
Secondly, the quality of life a place offers is equally significant. This encompasses factors such as safety, access to healthcare facilities, educational institutions, and recreational amenities. The overall ambiance of a place, including its cultural offerings and social atmosphere, can greatly influence one’s decision.
Environmental considerations are becoming increasingly important. People are now more conscious of air quality, green spaces, and the overall sustainability of a location.
Lastly, personal factors such as proximity to family and friends, climate preferences, and cultural fit can sway decisions. Some may prioritize a vibrant city life, while others might lean towards a more tranquil rural setting.
In essence, choosing a place to live involves balancing practical necessities with personal aspirations and lifestyle preferences. It’s a deeply personal decision that often requires careful weighing of various pros and cons.”
Key Vocabulary and Phrases
To achieve a high score in IELTS Speaking, it’s crucial to use a range of vocabulary and complex sentence structures. Here are some key terms and phrases from our sample answers:
Inclined towards (phrasal verb) – /ɪnˈklaɪnd təˈwɔːdz/ – having a tendency or disposition to do something
Example: “I’m inclined towards spicy food.”Resonate with (phrasal verb) – /ˈrezəneɪt wɪð/ – to have particular meaning or importance for someone
Example: “His speech resonated with the audience.”Vibrant (adjective) – /ˈvaɪbrənt/ – full of energy and life
Example: “New York is known for its vibrant culture.”Picturesque (adjective) – /ˌpɪktʃəˈresk/ – visually attractive, especially in a quaint or charming way
Example: “The picturesque village attracted many tourists.”Burgeoning (adjective) – /ˈbɜːdʒənɪŋ/ – growing or developing rapidly
Example: “The city has a burgeoning tech industry.”Exude (verb) – /ɪɡˈzjuːd/ – to display an emotion or quality strongly and openly
Example: “She exudes confidence in her presentations.”
Tips from an IELTS Examiner
As an experienced IELTS examiner, I recommend the following to improve your Speaking performance:
- Practice regularly: Speak English daily, even if it’s just to yourself.
- Expand your vocabulary: Learn new words and phrases related to common IELTS topics.
- Work on pronunciation: Clear pronunciation is crucial for a high score.
- Use a variety of sentence structures: Mix simple and complex sentences.
- Be specific and provide examples: This demonstrates your ability to communicate ideas clearly.
- Stay calm and confident: Remember, the examiner wants you to do well!
By following these tips and using the sample answers as inspiration, you can improve your performance in the IELTS Speaking test. Remember, practice makes perfect!
For more guidance on describing places in IELTS Speaking, you might find these resources helpful:
- Describe a place in your country that holds historical significance
- Describe a place in your country that has changed over time
- Describe a place where you like to go for peace and quiet
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Speaking is not just about memorizing answers, but about developing the ability to express your thoughts clearly and confidently on a wide range of topics.