Living arrangements are a common topic in IELTS Speaking Part 1, particularly during the introductory phase. This question frequently appears in actual tests and provides candidates an opportunity to demonstrate their English proficiency through familiar subject matter.
Common Questions in Part 1
Primary Question
- Do you live in a house or a flat/apartment?
Follow-up Questions
- How long have you lived there?
- What do you like about living there?
- Would you prefer to live somewhere else?
Similar to describe a house or apartment you would like to own, these questions allow candidates to showcase their vocabulary and fluency.
Sample Answers with Band Scores
Band 6-7 Response
“I live in a modern apartment on the tenth floor of a residential complex. I’ve been living there for about three years now. What I really like about it is the convenient location – it’s close to my workplace and there are plenty of amenities nearby. Although it’s not very spacious, it suits my needs perfectly at the moment.”
Band 8-9 Response
“I currently reside in a contemporary high-rise apartment situated in the heart of the city. I’ve been calling it home for approximately three years, and I must say, it’s been an absolutely delightful experience. The panoramic views of the city skyline from my balcony are breathtaking, and the state-of-the-art facilities in our building complex, such as the gym and communal garden, make it an ideal living space.”
Part 2: Cue Card Related to Housing
Topic
Describe your ideal living space.
You should say:
- What kind of property it would be
- Where it would be located
- What special features it would have
- And explain why you would choose this type of accommodation
Just as describe a place in your city that you would like to improve, this topic requires detailed description and reasoning.
Band 8-9 Sample Answer
“My ideal living space would be a spacious penthouse apartment located in a prestigious neighborhood. I’m particularly drawn to the idea of having a split-level design with floor-to-ceiling windows that would flood the space with natural light. The property would feature a wraparound terrace offering panoramic views of the city skyline and harbor.
One of the most distinctive features would be the open-plan living area, which would seamlessly blend the kitchen, dining, and living spaces. I would ensure it has cutting-edge smart home technology integrated throughout, including voice-activated controls for lighting, temperature, and security systems.
I would choose this type of accommodation because it strikes the perfect balance between luxury and practicality. The location would be strategically positioned to provide easy access to both the bustling city center and peaceful green spaces. Moreover, the elevated position would offer both privacy and the opportunity to enjoy stunning views, making it an ideal sanctuary in the urban landscape.”
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
Property Types
- Detached house
- Semi-detached property
- Terraced house
- Studio apartment
- Duplex
- Maisonette
Location Descriptors
- Prime location
- Up-and-coming neighborhood
- Residential district
- Metropolitan area
- Suburban setting
Amenities and Features
- State-of-the-art facilities
- Modern conveniences
- Well-maintained grounds
- Security features
- Communal areas
Similar to how one might describe a creative activity you enjoy, using varied vocabulary enhances your response significantly.
Examiner’s Tips
- Use a mix of simple and complex sentences
- Incorporate relevant idioms naturally
- Provide specific details and examples
- Maintain a consistent flow of ideas
- Express personal preferences with clear reasoning
Just as with describe a place in your country that you would like to photograph, your response should be detailed and well-structured.
Remember, like describe a person who is very humble, authenticity in your responses while maintaining sophistication in language use is key to achieving a high band score.