The topic of describing a school you attended as a child is a common one in IELTS Speaking exams. It has appeared frequently in past tests and is likely to continue being a popular choice for examiners. This topic allows candidates to demonstrate their ability to recall and describe past experiences, use descriptive language, and express personal opinions.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask you some general questions about schools and education. Here are some possible questions and sample answers:
- Did you enjoy going to school when you were a child?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“Yes, I generally enjoyed going to school as a child. I found it exciting to learn new things and spend time with my friends. The interactive lessons and extracurricular activities were particularly engaging for me.”
- What was your favorite subject in primary school?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“My favorite subject in primary school was undoubtedly science. I was fascinated by the natural world and loved conducting simple experiments. The hands-on approach to learning really sparked my curiosity and made me eager to discover more about how things work.”
Describe a piece of local news that affected you
Part 2: Long Turn
Cue Card
Describe a school you attended as a child. You should say:
- Where it was located
- What it looked like
- What you liked or disliked about it
- And explain why you still remember this school
Sample Answer (Band 6-7)
“I’d like to talk about my primary school, which was located in a small town in the countryside. It was a two-story building with red brick walls and a large playground. The classrooms were quite basic, with simple desks and chairs.
What I liked most about the school was the friendly atmosphere. The teachers were kind and supportive, and I made many good friends there. However, I disliked that we didn’t have many facilities for sports or other activities.
I still remember this school because it’s where I spent six important years of my childhood. It’s where I learned to read and write, and where I first discovered my love for learning.”
Sample Answer (Band 8-9)
“I’d like to describe my primary school, which was nestled in a picturesque village on the outskirts of my hometown. The school was a charming blend of traditional and modern architecture, featuring red brick walls adorned with vibrant murals and large, sun-drenched windows that flooded the classrooms with natural light.
What I particularly appreciated about the school was its emphasis on holistic education. The teachers were not only knowledgeable but also remarkably dedicated to nurturing our creativity and critical thinking skills. The school boasted a well-stocked library that became my sanctuary, fueling my passion for reading. However, I must admit that I wasn’t too fond of the rather austere school uniforms we had to wear.
This school holds a special place in my memories because it laid the foundation for my academic journey and personal growth. It was there that I discovered my affinity for sciences, thanks to engaging experiments in our modest but well-equipped laboratory. Moreover, the school’s annual cultural festivals, where we showcased our talents, instilled in me a lifelong appreciation for the arts. The friendships forged in those formative years have stood the test of time, making this school an indelible part of my childhood.”
Primary school building surrounded by nature
Follow-up Questions
- How has the school changed since you attended it?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“From what I’ve heard, the school has undergone significant transformations since my time there. The infrastructure has been substantially upgraded, with new classrooms and a state-of-the-art computer lab added. The curriculum has also been modernized to incorporate more technology-driven learning. However, I’m pleased to know that they’ve maintained the essence of the school’s nurturing environment and continue to prioritize holistic development.”
- Do you think the education system has improved since you were a child?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“I believe the education system has evolved considerably since my childhood. There’s now a greater focus on practical skills and critical thinking, which I think is a positive change. The integration of technology in classrooms has also made learning more interactive and engaging. However, I feel there’s still room for improvement in areas like personalized learning and reducing academic pressure on students.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Examiner: How do you think schools have changed in the last 20 years?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“Schools have undergone profound changes in the past two decades. The most striking transformation has been the integration of technology into almost every aspect of education. Interactive whiteboards, tablets, and online learning platforms have revolutionized the way students engage with information.
Furthermore, there’s been a significant shift in pedagogical approaches. Many schools have moved away from rote learning towards more inquiry-based and collaborative learning models. This change fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills, which are crucial in today’s rapidly evolving world.
Another notable change is the increased emphasis on holistic development. Schools now often offer a wider range of extracurricular activities and place greater importance on emotional intelligence and social skills. This multifaceted approach to education aims to prepare students not just academically, but for life in general.
Lastly, there’s been a growing focus on inclusivity and diversity in schools. Many institutions have implemented policies and programs to ensure equal opportunities for students from all backgrounds, including those with special educational needs. This shift towards more inclusive education is a positive step towards creating a more equitable society.”
Examiner: What role do you think technology should play in education?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“I believe technology should play a supportive role in education, enhancing traditional teaching methods rather than replacing them entirely. It can be a powerful tool for making learning more interactive and engaging. For instance, virtual reality can transport students to historical events or far-off places, providing immersive experiences that textbooks alone can’t offer.
Technology can also facilitate personalized learning, allowing students to progress at their own pace. Additionally, it can help teachers track student progress more efficiently and provide timely feedback.
However, it’s crucial to strike a balance. Overreliance on technology might hinder the development of important social skills and human interaction. Therefore, I think the ideal approach is to integrate technology thoughtfully, ensuring it complements rather than dominates the learning experience.”
Describe a song that is special to you
Key Vocabulary and Phrases
Nestled (verb) /ˈnesəld/ – situated in a comfortable or cozy position
Example: The school was nestled in a quiet valley, away from the busy city.Picturesque (adjective) /ˌpɪkʧəˈresk/ – visually attractive, especially in a quaint or charming way
Example: The picturesque village where my school was located attracted many tourists.Holistic education (noun phrase) /həʊˈlɪstɪk ˌedjʊˈkeɪʃən/ – an approach to education that focuses on the whole person, not just academic skills
Example: The school’s holistic education approach helped develop our social and emotional skills alongside academic knowledge.Austere (adjective) /ɔːˈstɪə(r)/ – severe or strict in manner, attitude, or appearance
Example: The austere school uniforms were not popular among students, who preferred more colorful attire.Indelible (adjective) /ɪnˈdeləbl/ – not able to be forgotten or removed
Example: The experiences at my primary school left an indelible mark on my childhood memories.
Students engaged in interactive learning with technology
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test when describing a school you attended as a child:
- Use a variety of descriptive language to paint a vivid picture of the school.
- Incorporate personal anecdotes and specific details to make your description more engaging and authentic.
- Practice organizing your thoughts coherently to deliver a well-structured response, especially for Part 2.
- Develop your ideas fully, providing reasons and examples to support your points.
- Use a range of grammatical structures and vocabulary appropriate to the topic.
- Work on your fluency by practicing speaking about your school experiences regularly.
- Be prepared to discuss broader topics related to education in Part 3, incorporating more abstract ideas and opinions.
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Speaking is not just about what you say, but how you say it. Confidence, fluency, and the ability to express your ideas clearly are crucial factors in achieving a high score.
Describe a goal that you would like to achieve
By following these tips and practicing regularly, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle questions about your school experiences in the IELTS Speaking test. Good luck with your preparation!