Of course! Talking about a famous building is a very common topic in IELTS Speaking Part 2. The key is not just to describe the building, but to tell a story and share your personal feelings and opinions.

Here is a comprehensive guide to help you tackle this topic, including a sample answer, key vocabulary, and tips for a high score.

Part 2: Cue Card

Describe a famous building in your country. You should say:

• Where this building is
• What it is used for
• What it looks like
• And explain why it is a famous building.

Sample Answer (The Sydney Opera House)

I'd like to talk about a building that is instantly recognizable and an absolute icon of my country, Australia: the Sydney Opera House.

Where it is and what it's used for: It's located in Sydney, on the edge of Sydney Harbour, right next to the Harbour Bridge. As the name suggests, its primary function is as a performing arts centre. It's home to multiple performance venues, including the Concert Hall, the Opera Theatre, and drama theatres. So, it's used for a huge variety of events, from symphony orchestra concerts and opera performances to theatre plays, ballets, and even rock concerts.

What it looks like: Visually, it's absolutely stunning and unlike anything else in the world. It's a series of large, white, shell-like structures that seem to rise gracefully out of the harbour. The architect, Jørn Utzon, was inspired by the segments of an orange, and you can really see that organic, flowing shape. These shells are covered in over a million tiles that shimmer in the sunlight. The building is set on a large stone platform, and at its base, there are ramps and steps that lead down to the water, making it feel very open and accessible. When the sun sets, the building is often lit up with a beautiful glow, reflecting on the water.

Why it's famous: I think there are a few key reasons for its fame. Firstly, its unique and revolutionary design broke all the architectural rules of its time. It was so bold and futuristic that it became a symbol of modern Australia. Secondly, its prime location is breathtaking. Being right in the harbour with the iconic Harbour Bridge as its neighbour, it creates one of the most famous cityscapes in the world. People travel from all over just to see it. Finally, it's not just a pretty face; it's a thriving cultural hub. It represents Australia's artistic identity and is a place where both locals and tourists can experience world-class performances. For these reasons, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site, which solidified its status as a globally significant landmark.

Key Vocabulary & Phrases

To get a high score, you need to use a range of vocabulary. Here are some categorized words and phrases you can use.

Describing Appearance (Nouns & Adjectives)

• Iconic (e.g., an iconic landmark)
• Stunning / Breathtaking / Spectacular (e.g., a stunning view)
• Magnificent / Imposing / Grand (e.g., a magnificent palace)
• Unique / Unconventional / Revolutionary (e.g., a unique design)
• Modern / Futuristic / Contemporary (e.g., a modern skyscraper)
• Historic / Ancient / Heritage-listed (e.g., a historic castle)
• Gothic / Baroque / Neoclassical (e.g., Gothic architecture)
• Ornate / Elaborate / Intricate (e.g., ornate decorations)
• Sleek / Minimalist (e.g., a sleek design)
• Distinctive / Easily recognizable (e.g., a distinctive silhouette)

Verbs & Action Phrases

• To dominate the skyline (e.g., The skyscraper dominates the skyline.)
• To overlook (e.g., The castle overlooks the valley.)
• To be situated / located / perched on (e.g., It's perched on a hilltop.)
• To be renowned for / famous for (e.g., It's renowned for its acoustics.)
• To be a symbol of (e.g., It's a symbol of our nation's progress.)
• To be inspired by (e.g., The design was inspired by nature.)
• To stand in stark contrast to (e.g., The new building stands in stark contrast to the old ones.)
• To house / to accommodate (e.g., The building houses a museum and a library.)

Architecture & Design

• Architecture / Design / Structure
• Blueprint / Plan / Layout
• Façade (the front of a building)
• Interior / Interior design
• Features / Characteristics
• Materials (e.g., marble, steel, glass, concrete)
• Sustainability / Eco-friendly design

Feelings & Opinions

• I'm in awe of... (I feel great respect or admiration for...)
• It never fails to impress me. (It always impresses me.)
• It has a certain grandeur / majesty.
• I find it incredibly inspiring.
• It evokes a sense of... (e.g., history, power, peace)
• It's a source of great pride for...

Tips for a High Score (Band 7+)

1. Tell a Story, Don't Just List Facts: Instead of saying "It is here. It is used for this. It looks like that," connect your ideas. Use linking words like "not only... but also...", "what's more...", "another reason is...", and "ultimately..." to create a smooth narrative.

   
   （图片来源网络，侵删）

2. Use a Wide Range of Vocabulary: Don't just repeat "famous" and "beautiful". Use the words from the list above. For example, instead of "It looks amazing", say "The stunning façade with its intricate carvings is truly breathtaking."

3. Show, Don't Just Tell: This is the most important tip.

   • Instead of: "The building is very old."

   • Try: "Walking through its ancient stone corridors, you can feel the weight of history, with walls that have witnessed centuries of change."

   • Instead of: "The building is impressive."

   • Try: "Standing at its base and looking up, you can't help but feel a sense of awe at its sheer scale and imposing presence."

4. Structure Your Answer Clearly: Use the cue card's points as a natural structure.

   • Introduction: "I'm going to talk about..."
   • Location & Purpose: "First of all, it's located in... and its main function is..."
   • Description: "Visually, it's quite remarkable because..."
   • Explanation of Fame: "I believe it's famous for several key reasons. Firstly... Secondly... And finally..."

5. Add Personal Details: Make it your own. "The first time I saw it was when I was a child, and I was just mesmerized by the way the sunlight hit the glass." This adds authenticity and helps you speak more fluently.

By combining a good structure, rich vocabulary, and personal anecdotes, you can deliver a powerful and memorable answer for this topic. Good luck with your IELTS preparation