The Speaking part of the IELTS exam is designed to evaluate a candidate’s ability to communicate effectively in English. This part is divided into three sections: Part 1 (Introduction and Interview), Part 2 (Long Turn), and Part 3 (Two-way Discussion). Each section has distinct requirements and challenges. Examiners assess a candidate’s performance based on fluency and coherence, lexical resource, grammatical range and accuracy, and pronunciation.
In this article, we will delve into one of the commonly asked topics: “Describe a time when you visited a famous city”. This is a pertinent topic that could appear in numerous variations within the IELTS Speaking test. We will provide compelling example answers and insights to help candidates prepare effectively.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, examiners ask questions to assess your ability to communicate information and opinions on everyday topics and experiences. Here are some typical questions related to visiting cities and travelling:
Common Part 1 Questions
- Have you ever visited a famous city? If so, where?
- Why do you think people enjoy visiting famous cities?
- What is your favorite city that you have been to?
Example Answer to Question 1
Question: Have you ever visited a famous city? If so, where?
Answer: Yes, I have visited several famous cities, but the most memorable one is Paris. I visited Paris last summer, as it had always been on my bucket list due to its rich history, iconic landmarks, and vibrant culture. The experience was even more magical than I had anticipated.
Part 2: Long Turn
In Part 2, you will be given a cue card with a topic. You have one minute to prepare and can take notes. You will then speak for 1-2 minutes on the topic. Below is a sample cue card based on our chosen topic:
Cue Card
Describe a time when you visited a famous city. You should say:
- When it was
- Where it was
- What you did there
- And explain why you enjoyed your visit
Sample Answer
When it was: Last summer, in July, during my vacation.
Where it was: I visited Paris, the capital city of France.
What you did there: During my five-day stay in Paris, I explored the city’s most iconic landmarks. On the first day, I visited the Eiffel Tower, and the view from the top was breathtaking. The next day, I spent hours wandering the halls of the Louvre Museum, marveling at its vast collection of art, including the Mona Lisa. I also took a leisurely boat ride along the Seine River and visited the majestic Notre-Dame Cathedral. Additionally, I indulged in French cuisine at local bistros and strolled along the Champs-Élysées, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.
Explain why you enjoyed your visit: I thoroughly enjoyed my visit to Paris because of the city’s enchanting blend of history, culture, and beauty. Visiting landmarks that I had only seen in books and movies was a dream come true. Moreover, the ambiance of the city, with its charming cafes, bustling streets, and exquisite architecture, left a lasting impression on me. The locals were welcoming and polite, adding to the overall positive experience. Overall, it was a trip filled with unforgettable memories and enriching experiences.
Examiner’s Follow-up Questions:
- What made the Eiffel Tower stand out as your favorite landmark?
- How did you find the local cuisine in Paris?
- Would you like to visit Paris again in the future?
Follow-up Answers
1. The Eiffel Tower stood out as my favorite landmark because of its iconic status and the impressive panoramic views it offers of the entire city. Being up there and seeing Paris from such a height was awe-inspiring.
2. The local cuisine in Paris was an absolute delight. I tried various dishes such as croissants, baguettes, crepes, and escargot. Each meal was a culinary adventure, highlighting the rich flavors and exquisite presentation.
3. Absolutely! Paris is a city that warrants multiple visits. There’s so much more to explore, such as hidden gems in different arrondissements and seasonal events. I would love to go back and experience more of what the city has to offer.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In this part, the examiner will ask more abstract and complex questions related to the topic in Part 2. This is an opportunity to showcase analytical and evaluative skills.
Discussion Questions
- What factors make a city famous?
- How do famous cities impact the local economy and culture?
- Do you think tourism is a double-edged sword for famous cities?
Example Discussion and Answers
Examiner: What factors make a city famous?
Candidate: Several factors contribute to a city’s fame. Historically significant events or heritage, iconic landmarks, cultural richness, and economic development all play a part. Take New York, for instance. It is renowned for its iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and Times Square, its vibrant cultural scene, and its status as a global financial hub.
Examiner: How do famous cities impact the local economy and culture?
Candidate: Famous cities often experience a significant boost to their local economy due to tourism. Visitors spend on accommodation, dining, attractions, and shopping, which creates jobs and stimulates business growth. However, an influx of tourists can also have adverse effects on local culture, leading to commercialization and sometimes even the erosion of traditional practices. Balance is key to maintaining the city’s identity while reaping economic benefits.
Examiner: Do you think tourism is a double-edged sword for famous cities?
Candidate: Indeed, tourism can be a double-edged sword. While it brings economic benefits and global recognition, it can also lead to overcrowding, environmental degradation, and strains on infrastructure. Famous cities need to implement sustainable tourism practices to mitigate these adverse effects and preserve their unique character and environment.
Vocabulary and Phrases to Achieve High Scores
Important Vocabulary
- Iconic (adj.) – /aɪˈkɒnɪk/: representing something, often a particular location or landmark. Example: The iconic Eiffel Tower is a must-see for anyone visiting Paris.
- Panoramic (adj.) – /ˌpænəˈræmɪk/: providing a view of a wide area. Example: The panoramic views from the top of the hill are simply breathtaking.
- Enchanting (adj.) – /ɪnˈʧɑːntɪŋ/: delightfully charming or attractive. Example: The enchanting streets of the old town were like stepping back in time.
- Awe-inspiring (adj.) – /ˈɔːɪnˌspaɪərɪŋ/: causing feelings of admiration and respect. Example: The awe-inspiring architecture of the cathedral left us speechless.
- Commercialization (n.) – /kəˌmɜːʃəlaɪˈzeɪʃən/: the process of making something operate in a market-oriented manner. Example: The commercialization of the historic site drew mixed reactions from the locals.
Useful Structure
- “Not only… but also”
- Not only does the city boast an impressive skyline, but it also offers rich cultural experiences.
- “As well as”
- As well as visiting the renowned museum, we also enjoyed a walking tour of the old district.
- “Due to”
- Due to its historical significance, the city attracts millions of tourists each year.
Final Tips
Practice regularly: Consistent practice helps you become comfortable with the format and timing of the test. Record yourself speaking on various topics to evaluate your performance.
Use a wide range of vocabulary: Don’t rely on basic words. Incorporate advanced vocabulary and phrase structures to showcase your language proficiency.
Fluency over perfection: Aim for a natural flow rather than focusing too much on grammatical perfection. Fluency and coherence are critical.
Seek feedback: Get feedback from teachers or peers to identify areas for improvement.
By thoroughly preparing for each section and practicing diverse topics, especially those as common as “Describe a time when you visited a famous city”, you can approach the IELTS Speaking test with confidence and competence, aiming for a high band score.
For more information on similar topics, consider reading Describe a place where you would like to take a friend and Describe a time when you traveled to a new place. These articles provide further insights into discussing places and travel experiences in your IELTS Speaking test.