Scorify.uzThe cue card
Describe a building that you like.
You should say:
- where it is
- what it looks like
- what it is used for
- and explain why you like it
Band 7 sample answer
A building I really like is the Registan complex in Samarkand, a group of three historic madrasas built hundreds of years ago. I first saw it when I was twelve, and I have visited it several times since.
It stands around a large square, and the facades are covered with blue, turquoise and gold tiles in complex patterns. The domes shine in the sunlight, and in the evening the whole complex is lit up.
Originally, the buildings were schools where students studied religion and science. Today, they are mainly a tourist attraction, although some of the rooms house souvenir shops and small exhibitions.
One evening I sat on the steps of the square with a friend who had come from abroad, and we watched the lights turn on one by one. She said it was the most beautiful place she had ever seen, and I felt proud to show her a part of my country that I love so much.
I like it because of its beauty and history. Standing in front of it, I feel proud of my heritage, and I think it shows how much skill and imagination our ancestors had.
About 193 words, roughly 1 minutes of natural speech.
Key vocabulary
- facade — the front of a building
- intricate — with many small details
- landmark — a famous building or place
- heritage — history and traditions passed down
- dome — a rounded roof
- architecture — the design of buildings
- magnificent — extremely beautiful
Tips for this cue card
- Describe shape, colour and material.
- Say what it was and what it is now.
- Explain the emotional effect on you.
Part 3 follow-up questions
Why should old buildings be preserved?
Idea: They show history and attract tourists.
Do modern buildings have the same character as old ones?
Idea: Some do, but many focus on function rather than beauty.
Who should pay for the restoration of historic buildings?
Idea: Governments, with support from donations and ticket sales.
More discussion questions with full answers: IELTS Speaking Part 3 topics.
Study guides
How Is IELTS Scored in Speaking and Writing? Criteria, Weighting and Rounding
The short answer first, then the Speaking and Writing criteria tables, how Task 1 and Task 2 combine and how the overall band is rounded.
IELTS Speaking Band Descriptors Explained in Plain English
The IELTS Speaking test is marked on four criteria. Here is what each one means at bands 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9, with short examples you can compare with your own answers.
IELTS Speaking Part 2: How Many Minutes to Speak (With a Practice Timer)
How long Part 2 lasts (1 minute to prepare, 1–2 minutes to speak), a practice timer, a four-step structure and a model answer.