As an IELTS Speaking examiner, I’ve noticed that questions about places with sentimental value are increasingly common in the test. This topic allows candidates to showcase their ability to express emotions and personal experiences, which are crucial elements in achieving a high band score. Let’s explore how to effectively answer questions related to this theme across all parts of the IELTS Speaking test.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, you may encounter questions that introduce the topic of sentimental places. Here are some examples:
- Do you have a favorite place from your childhood?
- Is there a place you like to go when you feel stressed?
- Are there any places that hold special memories for you?
Let’s look at a sample question and response:
Question: Is there a place that holds special memories for you?
Sample Answer (Band 7-8):
“Yes, definitely. The place that holds the most special memories for me is my grandparents’ old farmhouse in the countryside. I spent many summers there as a child, and it’s filled with nostalgia for me. The smell of fresh bread baking in the kitchen and the sound of crickets at night always transport me back to those carefree days.”
Key points for a high score:
- Use of descriptive language: “filled with nostalgia”
- Sensory details: smell of bread, sound of crickets
- Idiomatic expression: “transport me back”
Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)
IELTS Speaking Cue Card about a sentimental place
In Part 2, you might receive a cue card like this:
Describe a place that holds sentimental value for you.
You should say:
- Where this place is
- When you first went there
- What you do there
- And explain why this place is important to you
Sample Answer (Band 7-8):
“I’d like to talk about my grandmother’s garden, which holds immense sentimental value for me. It’s located behind her quaint cottage in a small village just outside of London.
I first visited this garden when I was about five years old, and it immediately captivated my imagination. It was like stepping into a fairy tale, with winding paths, hidden nooks, and an abundance of colorful flowers.
Whenever I visit, I spend hours exploring every corner of the garden. I help my grandmother tend to the plants, losing myself in the therapeutic act of weeding and watering. We often sit on the old wooden bench under the apple tree, sharing stories and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.
This place is incredibly important to me for several reasons. Firstly, it’s where I formed a deep bond with my grandmother, learning valuable life lessons through our conversations. Secondly, it serves as a sanctuary from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, allowing me to reconnect with nature and find inner calm. Lastly, it’s a living testament to my grandmother’s love and care, as every plant and feature in the garden has been nurtured by her over the years.
The garden embodies cherished memories of my childhood and continues to be a source of joy and inspiration in my adult life. It’s a place where time seems to stand still, allowing me to reflect on the past while appreciating the present moment.”
Key points for a high score:
- Structured response following the cue card prompts
- Use of descriptive language and idiomatic expressions
- Clear explanation of emotional significance
- Varied vocabulary and complex sentence structures
Possible follow-up questions:
- How has this place changed over the years?
- Do you think it’s important for people to have a place like this in their lives?
Sample Answer (Band 8-9) for question 2:
“I firmly believe that having a place of sentimental value is crucial for one’s emotional well-being. Such places serve as anchors in our fast-paced lives, providing a sense of continuity and belonging. They offer a refuge from the stresses of modern life and allow us to reconnect with our roots and core values. Moreover, these special places often become the backdrop for creating and reliving precious memories, which contribute significantly to our personal growth and identity formation. In an increasingly digital world, having a tangible, physical space that holds deep meaning can be incredibly grounding and restorative.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In Part 3, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here’s an example:
Examiner: Do you think the places people find sentimental change as they get older?
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“That’s an interesting question, and I believe the answer is yes, the places people find sentimental often do change as they age, but it’s a complex process influenced by various factors.
Firstly, as we grow older, our experiences and perspectives evolve, which can shift the emotional significance we attach to different places. For instance, a playground that held great sentimental value in childhood might be replaced by a university campus or a first apartment in adulthood, as these become the settings for pivotal life events and personal growth.
However, it’s also worth noting that some sentimental places remain constant throughout our lives, acting as emotional anchors. These might be places associated with family traditions or significant personal achievements. The permanence of these sentimental locations can provide a sense of stability and continuity in an ever-changing world.
Additionally, the phenomenon of nostalgia plays a crucial role in how we perceive sentimental places over time. As we age, we might find ourselves becoming more nostalgic, which could actually intensify our emotional connection to places from our past, even if we no longer visit them frequently.
Ultimately, I think the evolution of sentimental places reflects our personal journey through life. While new meaningful locations may emerge, they often coexist with, rather than completely replace, the sentimental places of our past, creating a rich tapestry of emotional associations that contribute to our sense of identity and personal history.”
Key points for a high score:
- In-depth analysis of the question
- Consideration of multiple perspectives
- Use of topic-specific vocabulary
- Clear structure with examples and explanations
Vocabulary and Phrases to Boost Your Score
To achieve a high band score, incorporate advanced vocabulary and idiomatic expressions. Here are some examples related to sentimental places:
Nostalgic /nɒˈstældʒɪk/ (adj): Feeling or inspiring a wistful affection for the past.
Example: “Visiting my old school always makes me feel nostalgic.”Cherished /ˈtʃerɪʃt/ (adj): Held dear; fondly remembered.
Example: “The beach house holds many cherished memories of family vacations.”Evoke /ɪˈvəʊk/ (verb): Bring or recall to the conscious mind.
Example: “The scent of lavender evokes memories of my grandmother’s garden.”Sanctuary /ˈsæŋktʃuəri/ (noun): A place of refuge or safety.
Example: “The library became my sanctuary during stressful exam periods.”Hallowed ground (idiom): A place considered sacred or special.
Example: “For many music fans, Woodstock is hallowed ground.”
Examiner’s Advice
To excel in discussing sentimental places in your IELTS Speaking test:
- Practice describing places using all five senses to create vivid imagery.
- Prepare personal anecdotes related to meaningful locations in your life.
- Develop your ability to explain the emotional significance of places.
- Expand your vocabulary with words and phrases related to memories and emotions.
- Practice linking your personal experiences to broader themes and societal trends.
Remember, authenticity is key. While it’s important to use advanced language, ensure that your responses genuinely reflect your experiences and thoughts. This combination of linguistic skill and personal insight is what will truly impress the examiner and help you achieve a high band score.