Long walks are a popular topic in IELTS Speaking tests, often appearing in Part 2 and Part 3 questions. This theme allows candidates to showcase their vocabulary, fluency, and ability to describe places and experiences. Let’s explore how to effectively answer questions related to describing a place where you like to go for long walks.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about walking or outdoor activities. Here’s a sample question with a suggested answer:
Q: Do you enjoy going for walks?
A: Absolutely! I find walking to be a fantastic way to clear my mind and stay active. It’s not only great exercise, but it also allows me to explore my surroundings and appreciate nature. I try to go for a walk at least a few times a week, especially when the weather is nice.
Describe a place in your country that you have visited many times could be a related topic that may come up in the IELTS Speaking test. It’s essential to be prepared for various questions about places you frequent or enjoy visiting.
Part 2: Long Turn
Here’s a sample cue card for this topic:
Describe a place where you like to go for long walks.
You should say:
- Where this place is
- How often you go there
- What the place looks like
- And explain why you enjoy walking there
Sample Answer (Band 6-7):
I’d like to talk about a local park near my home where I often go for long walks. It’s situated about a 10-minute drive from my house, and I try to visit at least twice a week, usually in the evenings after work or on weekends.
The park is quite spacious, with well-maintained pathways winding through grassy areas and around a small lake. There are plenty of trees providing shade, and in spring, the park comes alive with colorful flowers. The paths are lined with benches where people can sit and relax.
I really enjoy walking there because it’s a peaceful escape from the busy city life. The fresh air and natural surroundings help me unwind after a long day. It’s also a great place to get some exercise and clear my thoughts. Sometimes I go alone to have some quiet time, and other times I walk with friends, which makes it a nice social activity too.
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
I’d like to describe a picturesque coastal path that I frequently visit for long walks. It’s located along the eastern shoreline of my city, stretching for several kilometers and offering breathtaking views of the ocean.
I make it a point to venture there at least once a week, typically early on Saturday mornings when the area is less crowded and the air is crisp and invigorating. The path itself is a meandering trail that hugs the coastline, alternating between sandy beaches and rugged cliffs. What makes it truly captivating is the diverse landscape it traverses – from secluded coves to expansive vistas of the horizon.
The scenery along this coastal walk is nothing short of spectacular. Jagged rock formations jut out from the water, creating a dramatic backdrop against the azure sea. Native coastal vegetation, including hardy shrubs and wildflowers, adds splashes of color to the predominantly blue and gray palette. Depending on the season, you might spot migratory birds or even dolphins playing in the distance.
I find this place incredibly therapeutic for several reasons. Firstly, the rhythmic sound of waves crashing against the shore acts as a natural form of stress relief, helping me to decompress from the week’s pressures. Additionally, the physical act of walking along varied terrain – from soft sand to rocky outcrops – provides an excellent full-body workout. But perhaps most importantly, this coastal path offers a sense of perspective. Gazing out at the vast ocean reminds me of the beauty and grandeur of nature, which never fails to uplift my spirits and reinvigorate my outlook on life.
Follow-up Questions
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Q: What kind of wildlife do you encounter on your walks?
A (Band 6-7): I often see various birds, like seagulls and sometimes even eagles. Occasionally, I spot rabbits or squirrels scurrying around.A (Band 8-9): The coastal ecosystem boasts a rich biodiversity. I regularly observe a variety of shorebirds, including oystercatchers and cormorants. On fortunate days, I might glimpse pods of dolphins frolicking in the waves or seals basking on the rocks during low tide. The intertidal zones also teem with fascinating marine life such as starfish and colorful anemones.
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Q: How has this walking spot changed over time?
A (Band 6-7): Over the years, the local authorities have improved the path by adding more benches and information boards about local plants and animals. They’ve also planted more trees to provide shade.A (Band 8-9): The area has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past decade. Local conservation efforts have led to the restoration of native habitats, resulting in a noticeable increase in biodiversity. Additionally, sustainable tourism initiatives have improved accessibility while minimizing environmental impact, striking a delicate balance between human enjoyment and ecological preservation.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Q: How do you think urban planning can encourage more people to walk?
A (Band 6-7): I think urban planners can create more pedestrian-friendly areas by building wide sidewalks and adding more crosswalks. They could also create more green spaces and parks within cities to give people nice places to walk.
A (Band 8-9): Urban planners can play a crucial role in promoting walking through thoughtful design and infrastructure. Implementing a comprehensive network of wide, well-lit pedestrian pathways that are clearly separated from vehicular traffic can significantly enhance safety and comfort for walkers. Additionally, integrating green corridors and urban parks can create inviting environments that encourage people to explore their cities on foot. Another effective strategy is the development of mixed-use neighborhoods, where residential areas are interspersed with commercial and recreational spaces, naturally encouraging walking as a primary mode of transportation for daily activities.
Q: Do you think technology has affected the way people engage with outdoor activities like walking?
A (Band 6-7): Yes, I think technology has had both positive and negative effects. On one hand, fitness apps and step counters motivate people to walk more. But on the other hand, smartphones can be distracting and prevent people from fully enjoying nature.
A (Band 8-9): Technology has undoubtedly revolutionized our relationship with outdoor activities, including walking, in multifaceted ways. On the positive side, the proliferation of fitness tracking apps and devices has gamified the experience of walking, providing tangible goals and instant feedback that motivate many to increase their daily step count. GPS-enabled hiking apps have also made it easier for people to venture into new territories safely, potentially encouraging more adventurous walks.
However, this technological integration comes with potential drawbacks. The constant connectivity afforded by smartphones can detract from the mindfulness and immersive experience that walking in nature traditionally offers. There’s a risk of people becoming more focused on capturing the perfect photo for social media rather than fully engaging with their surroundings. Moreover, over-reliance on technology for navigation might erode natural way-finding skills and reduce the sense of exploration that many find appealing about walks.
Ultimately, the impact of technology on walking and outdoor activities is a double-edged sword, offering enhanced accessibility and motivation while potentially diminishing some of the intrinsic benefits of connecting with nature unplugged.
Describe a place where you like to spend weekends is another topic that could be related to discussing favorite walking spots, as many people enjoy outdoor activities during their leisure time.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
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Picturesque (adjective) /pɪkˈtʃɔːrɛsk/ – visually attractive, especially in a quaint or charming way
Example: The picturesque countryside was dotted with old stone cottages and rolling hills. -
Meandering (adjective) /miˈændərɪŋ/ – following a winding course
Example: The meandering river twisted through the valley, creating beautiful bends and curves. -
Captivating (adjective) /ˈkæptɪveɪtɪŋ/ – capable of attracting and holding interest; charming
Example: The captivating view from the mountaintop left us speechless. -
Therapeutic (adjective) /ˌθerəˈpjuːtɪk/ – having a beneficial effect on the body or mind
Example: I find gardening to be incredibly therapeutic after a stressful day at work. -
Decompress (verb) /ˌdiːkəmˈpres/ – to relax or release pressure
Example: Taking a long walk helps me decompress and clear my mind. -
Reinvigorate (verb) /ˌriːɪnˈvɪɡəreɪt/ – to give new energy or strength to
Example: The crisp mountain air seemed to reinvigorate our tired bodies.
Describe a place in your country where you enjoy spending time outdoors could incorporate many of these vocabulary items, allowing you to demonstrate your language proficiency.
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test when describing your favorite walking spot:
- Use a variety of descriptive adjectives and adverbs to paint a vivid picture of the location.
- Incorporate idiomatic expressions and advanced vocabulary naturally into your responses.
- Provide specific details and personal anecdotes to make your answers more engaging and authentic.
- Practice speaking about different aspects of your favorite walking spot, such as its appearance, atmosphere, and the reasons you enjoy it.
- Be prepared to discuss broader topics related to walking, such as environmental conservation, urban planning, or the benefits of outdoor activities.
Remember, the key to success is not just knowing the language, but using it flexibly and appropriately in context. Regular practice with a variety of topics will help you build confidence and improve your performance in the IELTS Speaking test.
Describe a book you recently read that changed your perspective might seem unrelated, but it’s an excellent opportunity to practice using descriptive language and expressing personal opinions, skills that are equally valuable when discussing favorite walking spots.