Public parks and recreational areas are common topics in IELTS Speaking tests, particularly in Part 2 and Part 3. This subject allows examiners to assess candidates’ ability to describe places, express personal opinions, and discuss broader societal issues. Given its relevance to everyday life and urban planning, it’s likely to remain a popular topic in future IELTS exams. Let’s explore how to tackle this subject effectively across all parts of the IELTS Speaking test.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In Part 1, you may encounter questions about parks and recreational areas as part of a broader discussion about your hometown or leisure activities. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:

Question: Do you often visit parks in your hometown?

Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I do. I try to visit the local park at least once a week. It’s a nice place to relax and get some fresh air.

Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely! I make it a point to frequent the parks in my hometown quite regularly. In fact, I’d say I’m there at least twice a week, either for my morning jogs or simply to unwind after a long day at work. The serene atmosphere and lush greenery provide a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Question: What activities do people usually do in parks?

Band 6-7 Answer:
People usually do various activities in parks. Many go for walks or jog. Some play sports like football or basketball. Families often have picnics there too.

Band 8-9 Answer:
Parks serve as versatile recreational spaces, catering to a wide array of activities. You’ll often see fitness enthusiasts engaging in jogging, yoga, or using outdoor gym equipment. Sports aficionados might be found playing football, basketball, or even cricket in some areas. Families frequently utilize parks for picnics or as a safe space for children to play. Additionally, many people simply enjoy leisurely strolls, reading books under trees, or practicing hobbies like photography or sketching amidst nature.

People enjoying various activities in a public park

Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)

In this section, you might be presented with a cue card similar to the following:

Describe A Public Park Or Recreational Area In Your Hometown. You should say:

• Where it is located
• What facilities it has
• What people do there
• And explain why you like or dislike this place

Remember, you have one minute to prepare and should speak for 1-2 minutes. Here’s a sample answer:

Band 6-7 Answer:

I’d like to talk about Central Park in my hometown. It’s located in the heart of the city, just a short walk from the main shopping district. The park is quite large and has many facilities. There’s a big playground for children with swings and slides. There’s also a jogging track that goes around the park. Many people use this for exercise.

The park has several sports facilities too. There are tennis courts and a basketball court. In the center of the park, there’s a large open area where people often play football or have picnics. There’s also a small lake where you can rent boats in the summer.

People do many different things in the park. On weekends, it’s full of families with children playing in the playground. You can see people jogging or cycling on the paths. Many people just come to relax and enjoy nature. Sometimes there are concerts or events in the park too.

I really like this park because it’s a great place to escape from the busy city. It’s nice to have some green space in the middle of all the buildings. I often go there to relax or meet friends. It’s a very important place for our community.

Band 8-9 Answer:

I’d be delighted to describe Harmony Gardens, a captivating public park nestled in the heart of my hometown. This verdant oasis is strategically located at the intersection of Main Street and River Avenue, serving as a green lung for our bustling urban center.

Harmony Gardens boasts an impressive array of facilities that cater to diverse interests and age groups. The park’s crown jewel is undoubtedly its state-of-the-art playground, complete with innovative play structures that stimulate children’s imagination and physical development. Fitness enthusiasts can take advantage of the well-maintained jogging track that meanders through the park, offering a scenic route for their daily exercise regimen. The park also features several multi-purpose courts for sports like basketball and tennis, encouraging active lifestyles among residents.

One of the park’s most striking features is its beautifully landscaped botanical garden, showcasing a vibrant collection of native flora. This area serves as an educational resource for schools and nature enthusiasts alike. At the heart of the park lies a serene lake, where visitors can rent paddleboats or simply enjoy the tranquil atmosphere from the surrounding benches.

The park is a hub of activity throughout the year. On any given day, you’ll observe a kaleidoscope of activities – from families enjoying picnics on the manicured lawns to yoga enthusiasts practicing their poses in dedicated quiet zones. The park’s amphitheater regularly hosts community events, concerts, and outdoor movie screenings, fostering a strong sense of community spirit.

Personally, I hold Harmony Gardens in high regard for several reasons. Firstly, it serves as a vital community space that promotes social interaction and physical well-being. The park’s thoughtful design ensures that it’s accessible to all, including those with mobility challenges. Moreover, it acts as a natural haven amidst the urban landscape, providing a much-needed respite from the frenetic pace of city life. The park’s commitment to sustainability, evidenced by its use of solar-powered lighting and rainwater harvesting systems, aligns with my environmental values.

In essence, Harmony Gardens is more than just a recreational area; it’s a testament to our town’s commitment to quality of life and sustainable urban development. It’s a place where nature, community, and recreation converge, making it an indispensable asset to our hometown.

Follow-up questions:

1. How has this park changed over the years?
2. Do you think more such parks should be developed in your city?

Band 6-7 Answer for Question 1:
The park has changed quite a bit over the years. It used to be smaller, but the city expanded it about five years ago. They added new facilities like the tennis courts and improved the playground. They also planted more trees and flowers, which have grown a lot now.

Band 8-9 Answer for Question 1:
Harmony Gardens has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past decade. Initially a modest green space, it has evolved into a comprehensive recreational hub. The most significant change was the park’s expansion, which nearly doubled its size, allowing for the introduction of diverse amenities. The city implemented a master plan that focused on enhancing biodiversity, resulting in the creation of the botanical garden and the introduction of native plant species. The playground underwent a complete overhaul, transitioning from traditional equipment to cutting-edge, inclusive designs that cater to children of all abilities. Perhaps the most impactful change has been the integration of smart technology, such as solar-powered Wi-Fi hotspots and interactive educational displays, positioning the park at the forefront of the smart city initiative.

Band 6-7 Answer for Question 2:
Yes, I think more parks like this should be developed in our city. Parks are important for people’s health and well-being. They give people places to exercise and relax. Also, they help to make the city look nicer and reduce pollution.

Band 8-9 Answer for Question 2:
Absolutely, I’m a firm believer in the development of more such parks across our city. The benefits of urban green spaces are multifaceted and far-reaching. Firstly, parks play a crucial role in promoting public health by providing accessible areas for physical activity and stress reduction. They also serve as natural air purifiers, helping to mitigate the effects of urban pollution. From an ecological standpoint, parks act as biodiversity hotspots, supporting local flora and fauna. Moreover, they contribute significantly to community cohesion, offering spaces for social interaction and cultural events. Economically, well-designed parks can increase property values in surrounding areas and attract tourism. As our city continues to grow, integrating more parks into urban planning would be a strategic investment in sustainable development and quality of life for residents.

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

In this section, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:

Question: What are the benefits of public parks for a community?

Band 6-7 Answer:
Public parks have many benefits for communities. They provide spaces for people to exercise and stay healthy. Parks also help to reduce stress and improve mental health. They’re good for the environment too, as they have trees and plants that clean the air. Parks also give people places to meet and socialize, which is important for community spirit.

Band 8-9 Answer:
Public parks offer a myriad of benefits that contribute significantly to the well-being of communities. Firstly, they serve as vital green spaces in urban environments, acting as natural air purifiers and helping to mitigate the urban heat island effect. This environmental role is crucial in our increasingly urbanized world.

From a public health perspective, parks provide accessible venues for physical activity, which is essential in combating sedentary lifestyles and related health issues such as obesity and cardiovascular diseases. They also play a pivotal role in mental health, offering spaces for relaxation and stress relief, which is particularly valuable in high-stress urban environments.

Moreover, parks function as social catalysts, fostering community cohesion by providing neutral spaces for diverse groups to interact. They often serve as venues for community events, further strengthening social bonds. For children, parks offer safe spaces for play and exploration, contributing to their physical and social development.

Economically, well-maintained parks can increase property values in surrounding areas and attract tourism, thus contributing to local economic development. They also provide ecosystem services such as stormwater management and habitat preservation for urban wildlife.

In essence, public parks are multifunctional spaces that contribute to the triple bottom line of sustainability: environmental health, social well-being, and economic vitality. Their presence is a key indicator of a community’s quality of life and commitment to sustainable urban development.

Question: How can governments encourage more people to use public parks?

Band 6-7 Answer:
Governments can do several things to encourage more people to use public parks. They can improve the facilities in parks, like adding more benches and play areas. They could organize more events in parks, like concerts or sports competitions. Making parks safer, with better lighting and security, would also help. Governments could also run campaigns to promote the benefits of spending time in parks.

Band 8-9 Answer:
Governments can employ a multifaceted approach to encourage greater utilization of public parks. Firstly, enhancing park infrastructure and amenities is crucial. This could involve upgrading existing facilities, such as playgrounds and sports courts, and introducing new features like outdoor gyms or community gardens. These improvements should be designed with inclusivity in mind, ensuring accessibility for all age groups and abilities.

Secondly, governments can focus on programming and events. By organizing a diverse range of activities – from fitness classes and nature walks to cultural festivals and outdoor concerts – parks can attract a wider audience and cater to varied interests. This programming should be regular and well-publicized to maintain consistent engagement.

Safety is another key factor. Implementing measures such as improved lighting, regular patrols, and community watch programs can help alleviate safety concerns that might deter park usage. Additionally, leveraging technology through the development of park-specific apps that provide information on facilities, events, and even real-time crowd levels can enhance user experience and encourage visits.

Education and awareness campaigns play a vital role too. Governments can collaborate with schools and community organizations to highlight the health and social benefits of park usage. This could be complemented by incentive programs, such as loyalty schemes that reward regular park visitors.

Improving accessibility is equally important. This includes ensuring good public transport links to parks and creating safe walking and cycling routes. In urban planning, adopting policies that prioritize having green spaces within walking distance of residential areas can significantly boost park usage.

Lastly, involving the community in park management through participatory planning processes and volunteer programs can foster a sense of ownership and pride, leading to increased usage and care for these spaces.

By implementing such a comprehensive strategy, governments can transform parks from passive green spaces into dynamic community assets that are integral to urban life.

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

1. Green lung (noun) /griːn lʌŋ/: An area of parkland or open space within a town or city.
   Example: “Central Park serves as a green lung for New York City.”

2. Verdant (adjective) /ˈvɜːrdənt/: Green with grass or other rich vegetation.
   Example: “The verdant lawns of the park were perfect for picnics.”

3. Biodiversity hotspot (noun) /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti ˈhɒtspɒt/: An area with a high concentration of different species.
   Example: “Urban parks can act as biodiversity hotspots, supporting various local flora and fauna.”

4. Ecosystem services (noun) /ˈiːkəʊˌsɪstəm ˈsɜːvɪsɪz/: The benefits people obtain from ecosystems.
   Example: “Parks provide crucial ecosystem services such as air purification and temperature regulation.”

5. Urban heat island effect (noun) /ˈɜːbən hiːt ˈaɪlənd ɪˈfekt/: A phenomenon where urban areas are significantly warmer than surrounding rural areas.
   Example: “Public parks help mitigate the urban heat island effect in cities.”

6. Social catalyst (noun) /ˈsəʊʃl ˈkætəlɪst/: Something that precipitates social interaction or change.
   Example: “The new community garden in the park has become a social catalyst, bringing neighbors together.”

7. Sustainable urban development (noun) /səˈsteɪnəbl ˈɜːbən dɪˈveləpmənt/: Urban development that meets the needs of the present without compromising future generations.
   Example: “Integrating more parks into city planning is crucial for sustainable urban development.”

Examiner’s Advice

To achieve high scores in the IELTS Speaking test when discussing public parks or recreational areas:

1. Use a wide range of vocabulary, including less common words and phrases related to urban planning, environment, and community development.

2. Provide detailed and well-structured responses, especially in Part 2. Organize your thoughts logically and cover all points mentioned in the cue card.

3. In Part 3, demonstrate critical thinking by discussing broader issues related to public spaces, urban development, and community well-being.

4. Use a variety of grammatical structures, including complex sentences and conditionals, to express your ideas clearly and precisely.

5. Show awareness of global issues related to urbanization, environmental conservation, and quality of life in cities.

6. Practice describing parks and recreational areas in your area, focusing on their features, benefits, and impact on the community.

7. Develop your ability to discuss abstract concepts related to urban planning and community development for Part 3 questions.

8. Incorporate personal experiences and opinions when relevant, but always support them with logical reasoning.

By following these guidelines and practicing regularly, you can improve your performance in the IELTS Speaking test and increase your chances of achieving a high score.

For more tips on describing places in IELTS Speaking, check out our guide on how to describe a place you like to go for a walk. You might also find it helpful to learn about describing a place that is special to you, as this can provide additional vocabulary and structures useful for discussing public parks and recreational areas.