As an IELTS instructor with over 20 years of experience, I’ve encountered numerous students grappling with the “describe where you live” IELTS speaking topic. This seemingly simple question can throw off even the most prepared test-taker. The key is understanding what the examiner is truly assessing and crafting a compelling response that showcases your English proficiency.
Understanding the “Living There” Question
Remember, IELTS Speaking Part 1 is about your ability to converse naturally and fluently on familiar topics. The examiner isn’t expecting a geographical dissertation when they ask about your hometown or current city. They are interested in:
- Your Vocabulary: Can you use a range of adjectives and descriptive language related to places?
- Grammar Accuracy: Are you using correct tenses and structures?
- Coherence: Can you organize your thoughts logically and use linking words effectively?
- Fluency: Are you speaking smoothly and at a natural pace?
Crafting Your Response
1. Focus on the “Why”
Don’t just list features of your city (“It has many parks and restaurants”). Instead, talk about what you like about these features and why. For example:
- Instead of: “My city has many parks.”
- Say: “I love that my city has so many green spaces. It’s great to escape the hustle and bustle and enjoy some peace and quiet in nature.”
2. Use Sensory Details
Bring your city to life by engaging the senses:
- Sight: “The city skyline at night is absolutely breathtaking.”
- Sound: “I love the lively atmosphere of the local market, with vendors calling out and music playing.”
- Smell: “The aroma of freshly baked bread from the bakery down the street is heavenly.”
3. Highlight Personal Experiences
Make your response engaging by sharing personal anecdotes:
- “One of my favorite things to do is spend Sunday mornings at the local farmers’ market, chatting with the vendors and trying delicious homemade treats.”
4. Don’t Be Afraid to Mention Negatives (and Positives!)
It’s perfectly fine to acknowledge downsides, as long as you focus on the positive:
- “While the traffic can be a bit challenging at times, I appreciate that the city has invested in an excellent public transportation system.”
Busy City Street
Example Response
Examiner: “What do you like about living in [your city]?”
You: “Well, [your city] is a vibrant and bustling city with a lot to offer. One thing I really appreciate is its incredible diversity. There are people from all walks of life here, and it creates such a rich and interesting cultural tapestry. You can find cuisines from all over the world, and there are always festivals and events celebrating different cultures. It’s truly a global city.”
Top Tips for Success
- Practice makes perfect: Practice answering this question and others like it frequently.
- Record yourself: Listen back to identify areas for improvement in pronunciation and fluency.
- Think about vocabulary: Brainstorm a list of words and phrases related to cities and living spaces.
- Stay calm and confident: Even if you make a mistake, keep speaking. The examiner is more interested in your overall communication skills.
Remember, the “What do you like about living there?” question is your opportunity to showcase your English fluency and ability to engage in a natural conversation. By following these tips and practicing regularly, you’ll be well-prepared to impress the examiner and achieve your desired IELTS score.
