Welcome to IELTS TIME! Today, we’re diving into the cue card: Describe a foreign country you would like to visit in the future. You should say: where it is, what it is famous for, what you can do there, and explain why you want to go there. We’ll play a response from Joseph, and then highlight key vocabulary and give you practical tips to craft your own compelling answer. Let’s get started.
Okay, so if I could travel anywhere in the future, I’d absolutely love to go to Japan. It’s an island nation in East Asia, located in the Pacific Ocean.
Japan is incredibly famous for a whole range of things. Firstly, there’s its unique blend of ancient traditions and cutting-edge technology. You’ve got stunning temples and traditional tea ceremonies alongside futuristic cities like Tokyo with its incredible skyscrapers and robot cafes. It’s also known for its beautiful natural scenery, from the cherry blossoms in spring to the snow-capped mountains of the Japanese Alps. Of course, I can’t forget to mention the food! Japanese cuisine is world-renowned, from sushi and ramen to more regional dishes. And culturally, it’s famous for things like anime, manga, and the intricate art of calligraphy.
As for what I could do there, the possibilities seem endless! I’d definitely want to explore Tokyo, visit the historic temples in Kyoto, and maybe even try skiing in Hokkaido. I’d love to immerse myself in the local culture, perhaps by participating in a tea ceremony or trying my hand at traditional crafts. And of course, I’d want to experience the vibrant nightlife and try all the amazing food. I’m also really interested in hiking and exploring the natural beauty, so I would want to do that as well.
The reason I’m so drawn to Japan is that it feels like such a fascinating and diverse country. It’s a place where you can experience the best of both worlds – ancient traditions and modern innovation. I’m really interested in learning more about its history and culture, and I think it would be an incredibly enriching experience. Plus, I’ve always been a big fan of Japanese animation and design, so I’d love to see it all firsthand. It just seems like a place that would really open my eyes to a different way of life, and that’s something I really value.
Welcome back, listeners. We just listened to a fantastic response from Joseph, who tackled the cue card: ‘Describe a foreign country you would like to visit in the future.’ He chose Japan, and I think we can all agree, his answer was packed with detail and enthusiasm.
Now, let’s dissect Joseph’s response and highlight some key vocabulary that really made his answer shine. You might be listening and thinking, ‘Wow, that sounded natural and fluent.’ Well, it’s not just about speaking quickly, it’s about using the right words in the right way.
Firstly, Joseph used the phrase ‘blend of ancient traditions and cutting-edge technology.’ This is a brilliant way to describe a country that has a rich history but is also incredibly modern. ‘Blend’ suggests a harmonious mix, and ‘cutting-edge’ emphasizes the advanced nature of their technology. Think about how you could use this in your own responses. Maybe you’re talking about a city with historical architecture alongside modern art galleries, or a country that balances traditional farming with innovative agricultural techniques.
He also mentioned ‘immerse myself in the local culture.’ This is a fantastic phrase to use when you want to show you’re not just a tourist, but someone who wants to experience a place on a deeper level. ‘Immerse’ suggests a complete absorption in the environment. Instead of saying ‘I want to see the culture,’ you could say ‘I want to immerse myself in the local arts scene,’ or ‘I want to immerse myself in the traditional festivals.’ It really elevates your language.
Joseph also talked about ‘enriching experience.’ This is a great adjective to describe something that adds value to your life, something that helps you grow. Travelling to a new country is often seen as an ‘enriching experience,’ but you can use this word in other contexts too. Learning a new language, volunteering, or even trying a new hobby can be ‘enriching experiences.’
And let’s not forget the phrase ‘open my eyes to a different way of life.’ This conveys a sense of curiosity and a willingness to learn. It shows you’re not just interested in sightseeing, but in understanding different perspectives. I remember the first time I travelled to South America, it really opened my eyes to how different cultures approach community and family life. It was a truly transformative experience.
Now, as you prepare your own responses, try to incorporate some of these phrases. Don’t just memorize them, though! Think about how they relate to your own experiences and interests. For example, if you’re talking about a country you want to visit for its natural beauty, you might say, ‘I want to immerse myself in the breathtaking landscapes.’
Remember, the IELTS speaking test is not just about vocabulary, it’s about communication. Speak clearly, confidently, and use language that shows you’re engaged and interested. And don’t be afraid to add a personal touch, like Joseph did when he mentioned his love for Japanese animation.
So, listeners, start thinking about your dream destination and how you can use these key vocabulary to paint a vivid picture for the examiner. And remember, practice makes perfect!
That’s all for this episode. Thanks for listening, and I’ll catch you next time. Until then, keep practicing and stay motivated!
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