The topic of describing a park or garden visit is a common theme in IELTS Speaking tests. It allows examiners to assess candidates’ ability to recount personal experiences, use descriptive language, and express emotions. This topic has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to remain relevant in future tests. Let’s explore how to effectively answer questions related to this theme across all parts of the IELTS Speaking exam.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about parks and gardens. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:
Do you often visit parks or gardens?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I do. I try to visit parks at least once a week, usually on weekends. It’s a nice way to relax and get some fresh air.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely! I make it a point to frequent local parks and gardens as often as possible, typically two to three times a week. I find these green spaces incredibly rejuvenating and essential for maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
What activities do you usually do in parks?
Band 6-7 Answer:
In parks, I usually go for walks or have picnics with friends. Sometimes I also read a book or do some exercise.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Parks offer a myriad of activities that I thoroughly enjoy. I often engage in outdoor yoga sessions, participate in local community events, or simply immerse myself in nature photography. Additionally, I find parks to be the perfect setting for cultivating mindfulness through meditation or tai chi practices.
describe a place where you often go to relax
Part 2: Long Turn
In this section, you’ll be given a cue card with a topic to speak about for 1-2 minutes. Here’s a sample cue card related to the theme:
Cue Card:
Describe a time when you visited a park or garden
You should say:
- Where it was
- When you went there
- What you did there
- And explain why you remember this visit
Band 6-7 Answer:
I’d like to talk about a visit to Central Park in New York City last summer. It was during my first trip to the United States, and I was really excited to see this famous park.
I went there on a sunny Saturday afternoon with some friends I had met at the hostel. We spent about three hours exploring different parts of the park. We walked around the lake, watched street performers, and even rented bicycles to cover more ground.
One of the highlights was visiting Strawberry Fields, the memorial for John Lennon. We also found a quiet spot to have a small picnic with snacks we had bought earlier.
I remember this visit clearly because it was such a contrast to the busy city around it. It was amazing to find this huge green space right in the middle of Manhattan. The atmosphere was so relaxing, and it was great to see how New Yorkers use the park to escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Band 8-9 Answer:
I’d be delighted to recount my memorable excursion to the Royal Botanic Gardens in Kew, London, which I had the pleasure of visiting last spring during a business trip to the UK.
Upon arriving at this verdant oasis on a crisp Wednesday morning, I was immediately captivated by the sheer magnitude and diversity of the botanical collections. I embarked on a self-guided tour, starting with the iconic Palm House, where I marveled at the lush tropical plants thriving in this Victorian glasshouse.
As I meandered through the grounds, I was particularly enthralled by the treetop walkway, which offered a bird’s-eye view of the woodland canopy. The experience was truly awe-inspiring, providing a unique perspective on the intricate ecosystem below.
One of the most enchanting aspects of my visit was the opportunity to explore the newly opened Children’s Garden. Although I was there without children, I found myself utterly charmed by the imaginative design and interactive elements that seamlessly blended education with play.
This visit remains etched in my memory for several reasons. Firstly, the juxtaposition of such a vast green space against the backdrop of bustling London was truly remarkable. Moreover, the gardens served as a living museum, showcasing the importance of biodiversity and conservation. The serenity I experienced amidst the carefully curated landscapes provided a much-needed respite from my hectic work schedule, leaving me feeling rejuvenated and inspired.
Follow-up questions:
- Did you learn anything new during your visit?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I learned about different types of plants and trees I had never seen before. The information boards were really helpful.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely! The visit was an enlightening experience. I gained insights into the intricate relationships between various plant species and their environments. The conservation efforts highlighted at Kew also broadened my understanding of the critical role botanical gardens play in preserving biodiversity and combating climate change.
- Would you recommend this place to others? Why or why not?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Definitely! I would recommend it because it’s a beautiful place to relax and learn about nature. It’s great for both locals and tourists.
Band 8-9 Answer:
I would wholeheartedly recommend Kew Gardens to others. It serves as an unparalleled sanctuary for nature enthusiasts, offering a harmonious blend of education, recreation, and tranquility. The gardens cater to diverse interests, from horticultural research to family-friendly activities, making it an invaluable resource for anyone seeking to deepen their connection with the natural world.
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:
How have parks and gardens in your country changed over the years?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Parks in my country have changed quite a bit. They now have more modern facilities like exercise equipment and better playgrounds for children. Some parks also host events and concerts now, which didn’t happen much before.
Band 8-9 Answer:
The evolution of parks and gardens in my country has been quite remarkable. There’s been a paradigm shift from viewing these spaces as mere recreational areas to recognizing them as vital components of urban ecosystems. Modern parks now incorporate sustainable design principles, such as rainwater harvesting and native plant landscaping. Additionally, there’s been a concerted effort to make parks more inclusive, with accessible features for people with disabilities and multigenerational spaces that cater to diverse community needs.
What role do you think parks and gardens play in urban planning?
Band 6-7 Answer:
I think parks are very important in urban planning. They provide green spaces for people to relax and exercise, which is crucial in busy cities. Parks also help to reduce pollution and make cities more attractive.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Parks and gardens play a pivotal role in contemporary urban planning. They serve as multifaceted assets, contributing to the environmental, social, and economic well-being of cities. From an ecological standpoint, these green spaces act as urban lungs, mitigating air pollution and fostering biodiversity. Socially, they provide essential community hubs that promote physical activity, mental health, and social cohesion. Economically, well-designed parks can enhance property values and attract tourism, thus contributing to the overall economic vibrancy of urban areas.
describe a tourist attraction that is popular in your country
Do you think technology has a place in modern parks and gardens?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I think technology can be useful in parks. For example, apps can help people find their way around large parks or learn about plants. Some parks also use technology for things like automatic watering systems.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Technology undoubtedly has a significant role to play in modernizing parks and gardens. When judiciously implemented, technological innovations can enhance visitor experiences and improve park management. For instance, augmented reality apps can offer interactive educational experiences about flora and fauna, while smart irrigation systems can optimize water usage. However, it’s crucial to strike a delicate balance, ensuring that technology complements rather than detracts from the natural experience. The ultimate goal should be to use technology as a tool to foster deeper connections between people and nature, rather than as a distraction from it.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
-
Verdant (adjective) /ˈvɜːrdənt/ – Green with grass or other rich vegetation.
Example: The verdant meadows stretched as far as the eye could see. -
Meander (verb) /miˈændər/ – To follow a winding course; to wander aimlessly.
Example: We meandered through the garden paths, taking in the sights and scents. -
Biodiverse (adjective) /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːs/ – Having a wide variety of plant and animal life.
Example: The park’s biodiverse ecosystem supports numerous species of birds and insects. -
Rejuvenate (verb) /rɪˈdʒuːvəneɪt/ – To give new energy or vigor to; to restore to a former state.
Example: Spending time in nature helps rejuvenate both mind and body. -
Tranquil (adjective) /ˈtræŋkwɪl/ – Free from disturbance; calm.
Example: The garden’s tranquil atmosphere provided a perfect escape from city life.
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test when discussing parks and gardens:
- Use a wide range of vocabulary, including less common words and phrases related to nature and urban planning.
- Provide detailed and specific examples from personal experiences or general knowledge.
- Develop your ideas fully, explaining your thoughts and opinions clearly.
- Use a variety of grammatical structures, including complex sentences.
- Practice speaking about different aspects of parks and gardens, from their design to their social and environmental impacts.
describe a garden you would like to design
Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is not just about what you say, but how you say it. Aim for fluency, coherence, and natural pronunciation while showcasing your language skills and depth of thought on the topic.