IELTS Speaking Test with examiner asking questions about crowded places
Common Part 1 Questions About Crowded Places
- Do you like crowded places?
- What kinds of crowded places do you usually go to?
- How do you feel when you’re in a crowded place?
- Do you prefer to go to crowded or quiet places?
Sample Answers (Band 8-9)
“Well, it really depends on the context. While I generally gravitate towards quieter environments, I do find myself energized by the bustling atmosphere of certain crowded places, like [describe a tourist attraction in your country](). For instance, when I’m exploring street markets or attending festivals, the lively ambiance actually adds to the overall experience.”
Part 2: Cue Card Topic
Describe a crowded place you have visited.
You should say:
- Where it was
- When you went there
- What you did there
- And explain how you felt about being in this crowded place
Sample Answer (Band 8-9)
“I’d like to talk about my recent visit to [describe a place where you feel relaxed and comfortable](). It was during the Lunar New Year festival in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. The streets were absolutely teeming with locals and tourists alike, creating an electric atmosphere.
What particularly struck me about the experience was the remarkable blend of chaos and harmony. Despite the overwhelming number of people, there was this fascinating rhythm to how everyone moved. I spent several hours wandering through the narrow alleys, sampling local delicacies and immersing myself in the festive spirit.
The experience was simultaneously exhilarating and somewhat overwhelming. While the crowds made movement challenging, the vibrant energy and collective excitement more than made up for any discomfort. It was a prime example of how crowded places can actually enhance the authenticity of cultural experiences.”
Bustling street market scene with locals and tourists enjoying festival atmosphere
Part 3: Discussion Questions
How have crowded places changed in your country over the past few decades?
Band 6-7 Answer
“Crowded places in my country have changed a lot. Shopping malls have become more popular than traditional markets. Also, there are more tourists now than before, which makes famous places more crowded.”
Band 8-9 Answer
“There has been a dramatic transformation in how crowded spaces function in our society. The proliferation of modern shopping complexes has fundamentally altered the landscape of public gatherings. Moreover, the surge in domestic and international tourism has led to [describe a favorite place in your country to relax]() becoming increasingly congested, necessitating better crowd management systems.”
Do you think cities will become more or less crowded in the future?
Band 8-9 Answer
“I’m inclined to believe that urban areas will continue to experience increased congestion, primarily due to ongoing urbanization. However, this might be partially offset by the emerging trend of remote work and the development of satellite cities. The key challenge will be striking a balance between urban development and maintaining livable spaces.”
Essential Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
- Teeming with (phrasal verb) – to be full of; to have large numbers
- Electric atmosphere (collocation) – exciting, energetic environment
- Hustle and bustle (idiom) – busy and noisy activity
- Throng of people (phrase) – large crowd
- At peak times (phrase) – during busiest periods
- Shoulder to shoulder (idiom) – very crowded, with people touching
Remember to practice these phrases in context and use them naturally in your responses. When discussing [describe a memorable walk in the countryside](), you can contrast it with crowded urban experiences to demonstrate vocabulary range.
