As an IELTS instructor with over 20 years of experience, I often encounter students who feel anxious about the seemingly simple questions in the IELTS Speaking test. One such question is “What is your favorite thing in Hanoi?”. While seemingly straightforward, this question can trip up unprepared students. This article will delve into why this question is asked, provide strategic tips on how to formulate impressive answers, and offer illustrative examples to ensure you are well-equipped for your IELTS Speaking test.
Why “What is your favorite thing in Hanoi?” Matters in IELTS
This question, often appearing in Part 1 of the IELTS Speaking test, serves as more than just a casual conversation starter. The examiner uses it to assess several key aspects of your English proficiency:
- Vocabulary Range: Can you go beyond basic adjectives like “good” or “beautiful” to describe your favorite thing in Hanoi?
- Fluency and Coherence: Can you speak naturally, without long pauses, and connect your ideas smoothly?
- Grammar Accuracy: Are you using the correct tenses and grammatical structures?
- Pronunciation and Intonation: Can the examiner understand you clearly? Do you vary your pitch and tone to make your speech engaging?
Crafting Your Perfect Response
Here’s how to tackle this question strategically:
1. Choose Wisely, But Don’t Overthink:
- You don’t need to choose the most unique or obscure thing. It’s perfectly fine to talk about something common like Hoan Kiem Lake or the Old Quarter.
- The key is to choose something you are genuinely enthusiastic about and can speak about in detail.
2. Structure Your Answer Effectively:
- Start with a clear statement: “My favorite thing in Hanoi is definitely…”
- Provide reasons for your choice: “…because it offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s history.”
- Add details and examples: “For instance, I love wandering through the ancient temples and imagining life centuries ago.”
- Connect to your personal experience: “Whenever I feel stressed, I visit the lake; its tranquility helps me unwind.”
3. Showcase Your Vocabulary:
- Use descriptive language to paint a vivid picture. Instead of saying “beautiful,” consider words like “charming,” “picturesque,” “historic,” “bustling,” or “serene.”
- Employ synonyms to avoid repetition and demonstrate your lexical range.
4. Practice Makes Perfect:
- Rehearse answering this question multiple times, focusing on fluency, pronunciation, and vocabulary.
- Record yourself speaking to identify areas for improvement.
Illustrative Examples:
Example 1:
“My favorite thing in Hanoi is definitely the Temple of Literature. I’m fascinated by Vietnamese history, and this temple, dedicated to Confucius, offers a peaceful sanctuary within the bustling city. I love admiring the ancient architecture and reflecting on the generations of scholars who studied there.”
Example 2:
“I’m a real foodie, so my favorite thing in Hanoi is undoubtedly the street food. I adore the energy of the night markets and the explosion of flavors in every bite. Whether it’s a steaming bowl of phở or fresh spring rolls, Hanoi’s street food scene is a feast for the senses.”
Key Takeaways
Remember, the “favorite thing” question is an opportunity to demonstrate your English proficiency and share your enthusiasm for Hanoi. By choosing a topic you care about, structuring your answer effectively, using descriptive language, and practicing regularly, you’ll be well-prepared to impress the examiner on test day.