When it comes to IELTS Speaking, being able to describe places is a crucial skill. One common topic that often appears in the test is describing a place where you meet friends. This topic has been a staple in past IELTS exams and is likely to remain relevant in future tests. Let’s explore how to tackle this topic effectively to achieve a high score.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In this section, the examiner may ask you some general questions about meeting friends. Here’s an example question with a suggested answer:

Q: How often do you meet your friends?

Band 6-7 Answer:
“I try to meet my friends at least once a week, usually on weekends. We often get together for coffee or a quick meal.”

Band 8-9 Answer:
“I make it a point to catch up with my friends on a regular basis, typically two to three times a week. We have a standing appointment for Friday evening drinks, and I often squeeze in a coffee or lunch date mid-week as well.”

Friends meeting at a cafe in urban setting

Part 2: Long Turn

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

Describe A Place Where You Go To Meet Friends.

You should say:

• Where it is
• How often you go there
• What you do there
• And explain why you like meeting friends there

Band 6-7 Answer:
“There’s a cozy cafe near my university that I often visit with my friends. It’s called ‘The Green Bean’ and it’s located just a five-minute walk from campus. I go there about twice a week, usually after classes or on weekends. When we’re there, we usually order coffee or tea and sometimes share some snacks. We spend time chatting about our studies, personal lives, and plans for the future. I like meeting friends there because it has a relaxed atmosphere and it’s convenient for all of us to reach.”

Band 8-9 Answer:
“I’d like to tell you about a charming little hideaway called ‘The Bookworm Cafe’, which has become our go-to spot for friend gatherings. It’s nestled in a quaint alley in the heart of the city, giving it a sense of being a hidden gem. I find myself gravitating towards this place at least thrice a week, often as a respite from our hectic schedules.

The cafe boasts an eclectic mix of books lining its walls, which serves as a perfect backdrop for our meetups. We often immerse ourselves in stimulating discussions about literature, current affairs, or simply catch up on each other’s lives. Sometimes, we participate in the cafe’s book club events or poetry readings, which adds an intellectual flavor to our hangouts.

What really sets this place apart is its unique ambiance. The soft lighting, comfy armchairs, and the gentle hum of conversation create an atmosphere that’s both intimate and invigorating. It’s the kind of place where time seems to slow down, allowing us to truly connect and unwind.

I’m particularly fond of meeting friends here because it caters to our shared interests in books and meaningful conversations. The cafe’s welcoming vibe makes it feel like a second home, where we can be ourselves without any pretense. It’s not just a meeting place; it’s become a cornerstone of our friendship, fostering deeper bonds and creating lasting memories.”

Follow-up questions:

1. What makes this place special compared to other meeting spots?

Band 6-7 Answer:
“This place is special because it’s quiet and comfortable. Unlike noisy restaurants or crowded parks, we can talk easily here without interruptions.”

Band 8-9 Answer:
“What sets this place apart is its unique blend of tranquility and intellectual stimulation. Unlike typical hangout spots, The Bookworm Cafe fosters an environment conducive to meaningful conversations and personal growth. The presence of books and cultural events adds depth to our interactions, making each visit not just a social occasion, but an enriching experience.”

2. How has this place influenced your friendships?

Band 6-7 Answer:
“This place has helped our friendships grow stronger. We’ve had many good conversations here, which has brought us closer together.”

Band 8-9 Answer:
“This cafe has played a pivotal role in nurturing our friendships. The intimate setting and thought-provoking atmosphere have encouraged us to delve deeper into our conversations, fostering a level of trust and understanding that might not have developed in more casual environments. It’s become a catalyst for strengthening our bonds and creating shared experiences that have significantly enriched our relationships.”

Friends discussing books in a cozy cafe

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

Q: How do you think the places where people meet friends have changed over the years?

Band 6-7 Answer:
“I think nowadays people meet more in cafes and restaurants than they used to. In the past, people might have met more at each other’s homes. Also, with technology, some people now meet friends online through video calls.”

Band 8-9 Answer:
“The evolution of social meeting places has been quite remarkable over the years. We’ve witnessed a significant shift from traditional gathering spots like homes and community centers to more diverse and specialized venues. Cafes and restaurants have undoubtedly gained prominence, often tailored to specific interests or aesthetics to attract particular groups.

Moreover, the digital revolution has dramatically altered the landscape of social interaction. Virtual meeting spaces, be it through social media platforms or video conferencing apps, have become increasingly prevalent, especially in light of recent global events. These digital venues have blurred the lines between physical and virtual gatherings, offering new ways for friends to connect regardless of geographical constraints.

Interestingly, we’re also seeing a resurgence of interest in outdoor and nature-based meeting spots, perhaps as a counterbalance to our increasingly digital lives. Parks, hiking trails, and community gardens are becoming popular for friends seeking a more grounded, authentic experience in their social interactions.

This evolution reflects broader societal changes, including increased mobility, changing work patterns, and a growing emphasis on experiences over material possessions. It’s a fascinating reflection of how our social needs and values continue to shape the spaces we choose for connection and companionship.”

Friends in a virtual meeting, diverse group

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

1. Nestled /ˈnesəld/ (adjective): Situated in a comfortable or cozy position.
   Example: The cafe is nestled in a quiet corner of the bustling city.

2. Gravitate towards /ˈɡrævɪteɪt təˈwɔːrdz/ (phrasal verb): To be attracted to or move towards something.
   Example: We naturally gravitate towards this cafe for our weekly meetups.

3. Respite /ˈrespɪt/ (noun): A short period of rest or relief from something difficult.
   Example: Our gatherings at the cafe provide a welcome respite from our busy lives.

4. Immerse /ɪˈmɜːrs/ (verb): To involve oneself deeply in a particular activity or interest.
   Example: We often immerse ourselves in fascinating discussions about various topics.

5. Stimulating /ˈstɪmjuleɪtɪŋ/ (adjective): Encouraging interest or excitement.
   Example: The cafe’s book club events offer stimulating intellectual conversations.

6. Intimate /ˈɪntɪmət/ (adjective): Closely acquainted; familiar; private and personal.
   Example: The cafe’s cozy atmosphere creates an intimate setting for our conversations.

7. Cornerstone /ˈkɔːrnərˌstoʊn/ (noun): An important quality or feature on which a particular thing depends or is based.
   Example: This cafe has become a cornerstone of our friendship.

8. Foster /ˈfɔːstər/ (verb): To encourage or promote the development of something.
   Example: The relaxed environment fosters deeper connections among friends.

Examiner’s Advice

To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when describing a place where you meet friends, consider the following tips:

1. Use a variety of descriptive vocabulary to paint a vivid picture of the place.
2. Incorporate idiomatic expressions and phrasal verbs naturally in your responses.
3. Provide specific details and personal anecdotes to make your description more engaging and authentic.
4. Practice speaking about different aspects of the place, such as its location, atmosphere, and significance to you.
5. Be prepared to discuss broader topics related to social gatherings and friendship in Part 3.
6. Work on your fluency by regularly practicing speaking about familiar topics like this one.

Remember, the key to success in IELTS Speaking is not just about using advanced vocabulary, but also about expressing your ideas clearly, coherently, and confidently. Regular practice and expanding your range of expressions will help you describe a time when you felt proud of overcoming a challenge in your English speaking skills and perform well in the test.

Friends enjoying an outdoor picnic in a park setting

By mastering these skills and applying them to topics like describing a place where you meet friends, you’ll be well-prepared for your IELTS Speaking test. This topic not only allows you to showcase your language abilities but also gives you an opportunity to share personal experiences, much like when you describe a time when you went on a nature hike. Remember, practice makes perfect, so keep honing your skills and expanding your vocabulary to achieve the best possible score.