As an experienced IELTS Speaking examiner, I understand the importance of being well-prepared for the speaking test. One common topic that frequently appears in IELTS Speaking Part 2 is describing a place where you would like to settle down in the future. This article will provide you with valuable insights, sample answers, and tips to help you excel in this topic and boost your IELTS Speaking score.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, the examiner may ask you some general questions about your current living situation and your preferences for future settlements. Here are some possible questions:
- Where do you currently live?
- Do you like living in your current place?
- What kind of housing do you prefer?
- Would you like to live in a different place in the future?
Let’s look at a sample answer for the last question:
Examiner: Would you like to live in a different place in the future?
Sample Answer (Band 7-8):
“Yes, I definitely would. While I appreciate my current living situation, I’ve always dreamed of settling down in a more tranquil environment. I’m particularly drawn to the idea of living in a coastal town on the central coast of Vietnam. The prospect of waking up to the sound of waves and enjoying a more laid-back lifestyle really appeals to me. I believe such a change would greatly enhance my quality of life and provide a perfect balance between work and relaxation.”
Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)
Now, let’s move on to Part 2, where 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 settle down in the future.
You should say:
- Where this place is
- What it is like
- Why you would like to settle there
- And explain how this place differs from where you currently live
Sample Answer (Band 6-7)
“I’d like to talk about a place where I hope to settle down in the future. It’s a small city called Hoi An, located in central Vietnam. Hoi An is a picturesque town known for its well-preserved ancient architecture and rich cultural heritage.
The town is characterized by its narrow streets lined with traditional yellow houses, colorful lanterns, and a beautiful river that runs through the center. It has a unique blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese influences, which is reflected in its architecture and cuisine.
I’m drawn to Hoi An for several reasons. Firstly, I love its laid-back atmosphere and slower pace of life, which I find very appealing after years of living in a bustling metropolis. Secondly, the town’s rich history and cultural significance resonate with me, as I’ve always been fascinated by traditional Vietnamese culture. Lastly, Hoi An’s proximity to beautiful beaches and countryside makes it an ideal location for someone like me who enjoys both nature and urban amenities.
Compared to where I currently live, Ho Chi Minh City, Hoi An offers a completely different lifestyle. While Ho Chi Minh City is a large, modern, and fast-paced metropolis, Hoi An provides a more tranquil and traditional setting. The air is cleaner, the streets are less crowded, and there’s a stronger sense of community. I believe settling down in Hoi An would allow me to enjoy a higher quality of life and a deeper connection to Vietnamese culture and history.”
Sample Answer (Band 8-9)
“I’d like to discuss my aspiration to settle down in Da Lat, a picturesque city nestled in the Central Highlands of Vietnam. This enchanting destination is renowned for its temperate climate, lush pine forests, and stunning natural landscapes.
Da Lat is characterized by its unique blend of French colonial and traditional Vietnamese architecture, creating a captivating juxtaposition of old and new. The city is adorned with charming French-style villas, winding streets, and a plethora of colorful flower gardens, earning it the moniker ‘City of Eternal Spring.’
Da Lat cityscape
My desire to settle in Da Lat stems from several compelling factors. Firstly, the city’s year-round mild climate is incredibly appealing, offering a refreshing escape from the tropical heat prevalent in much of Vietnam. Secondly, Da Lat’s rich biodiversity and proximity to national parks align perfectly with my passion for nature and outdoor activities. Lastly, the city’s burgeoning reputation as a hub for education and innovation presents exciting opportunities for personal and professional growth.
In contrast to my current residence in Ho Chi Minh City, Da Lat offers a stark departure from the frenetic urban lifestyle. While Ho Chi Minh City is characterized by its bustling streets, towering skyscrapers, and constant hum of activity, Da Lat provides a more serene and contemplative environment. The air is noticeably cleaner, the pace of life more relaxed, and there’s a palpable sense of connection with nature.
Moreover, Da Lat’s unique cultural landscape, blending highland ethnic traditions with colonial influences, offers a rich tapestry of experiences that differ significantly from the predominantly urban culture of Ho Chi Minh City. I believe that settling in Da Lat would not only enhance my quality of life but also provide a profound opportunity for personal growth and cultural immersion.”
Follow-up Questions
- How long do you think it would take you to adjust to living in this new place?
- What challenges might you face when moving to this location?
Sample Answer (Band 8-9) for Question 1:
“I anticipate that the adjustment period would be a gradual process, likely taking around six months to a year to fully acclimate. The initial few months would involve practical matters such as finding suitable accommodation, establishing a daily routine, and navigating the local infrastructure. However, the more nuanced aspects of integration, such as building a social network and truly immersing myself in the local culture, would require more time. I believe that embracing the transition with an open mind and actively seeking opportunities to engage with the community would significantly expedite the adjustment process.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In Part 3, the examiner will ask you more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some possible questions and sample answers:
Examiner: Do you think it’s better for people to settle in one place or move around throughout their lives?
Sample Answer (Band 7-8):
“I believe this largely depends on individual preferences and circumstances. There are certainly advantages to both approaches. Settling in one place allows people to establish deep roots in a community, build long-lasting relationships, and potentially enjoy greater stability. This can be particularly beneficial for families with children or individuals seeking a strong sense of belonging.
On the other hand, moving around offers the opportunity to experience diverse cultures, broaden one’s perspective, and potentially access better career opportunities. It can lead to personal growth and adaptability, which are valuable skills in our increasingly globalized world.
Ultimately, I think the ideal approach varies for each person. Some may thrive on the excitement and challenges of frequent moves, while others may find greater fulfillment in the depth of connections formed by staying in one place. The key is to align one’s choices with personal goals and values.”
Examiner: How do you think cities in your country will change in the next 50 years?
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I envision significant transformations in Vietnamese cities over the next five decades, driven by technological advancements, environmental concerns, and changing social dynamics.
Firstly, I anticipate a shift towards smart cities, with increased integration of artificial intelligence and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies. This could lead to more efficient urban management, from traffic control to waste management, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for residents.
Secondly, in response to climate change, I expect to see a greater emphasis on sustainability. This might manifest in the form of green buildings, expanded public transportation networks, and the incorporation of more green spaces within urban areas. Cities like Ho Chi Minh City may need to develop innovative solutions to combat rising sea levels, possibly leading to the creation of floating neighborhoods or advanced flood defense systems.
Furthermore, I foresee a trend towards more mixed-use urban planning, blending residential, commercial, and recreational spaces to create more walkable, community-oriented neighborhoods. This could help reduce commute times and foster a stronger sense of community.
Lastly, as Vietnam’s population continues to age, cities will likely adapt to become more elderly-friendly, with improved accessibility features and specialized services catering to older residents.
While these changes present exciting possibilities, they also come with challenges, such as preserving cultural heritage and managing the pace of development. Striking a balance between progress and preservation will be crucial in shaping the future of Vietnamese cities.”
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
Picturesque (adjective) /ˌpɪk.tʃəˈresk/: visually attractive, especially in a quaint or charming way.
Example: “The picturesque village was surrounded by rolling hills and blooming flowers.”To resonate (verb) /ˈrez.ə.neɪt/: to have particular meaning or importance for someone; to affect or appeal to someone in a personal or emotional way.
Example: “The author’s description of rural life resonated with my own childhood experiences.”Juxtaposition (noun) /ˌdʒʌk.stə.pəˈzɪʃ.ən/: the fact of two things being seen or placed close together with contrasting effect.
Example: “The juxtaposition of modern skyscrapers and ancient temples creates a unique cityscape.”To acclimate (verb) /ˈæk.lə.meɪt/: to become accustomed to a new climate or environment.
Example: “It took me several weeks to acclimate to the high altitude of the mountain city.”Biodiversity (noun) /ˌbaɪ.əʊ.daɪˈvɜː.sə.ti/: the variety of plant and animal life in a particular habitat or ecosystem.
Example: “The rainforest’s rich biodiversity makes it a crucial area for conservation efforts.”
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when discussing your ideal future settlement, consider the following tips:
Develop your ideas: Don’t just list facts about the place. Explain your reasons and feelings in detail.
Use a range of vocabulary: Incorporate less common words and phrases related to housing, environment, and lifestyle.
Demonstrate complex grammar: Use a mix of simple and complex sentence structures, including conditionals and relative clauses.
Maintain fluency: Practice speaking on this topic to improve your ability to talk at length without hesitation.
Show personality: Share personal anecdotes or aspirations related to your ideal settlement to make your answers more engaging and authentic.
Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is not just about knowing the right answers, but about expressing yourself clearly, confidently, and naturally in English.