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IELTS Writing Task 2 : Architecture & History

Topic: architecture & history.

Many old buildings protected by law are part of a nation’s history. Some people think they should be knocked down and replaced by new ones.

Do you agree or disagree?

Band 8.0 Sample

Ancient buildings are relics of the past and should be preserved, in the view of some people. Others, however, believe that the appearance of modern buildings will open a new horizon for the development of a nation. My essay will discuss the validity of both sides.

The ancient houses are, first, believed to the reservoir of the glorious past of a nation. With their existence along each road, it is undeniable that no sooner does young generation grow up than they become proud of their country’s admirable old-day history through the image of roof, ceiling and walls. Philosophically speaking, like a person who clings to the past to reflect, views the present to enjoy and contemplates the future, a city itself entails an inextricable link of these three-time axes to revise, thrive and fly. Nevertheless, in case of derelict old houses, such experience of living in these shelters could be a nightmare to quite a few people, for instance, Hanoi people who are suffering a low-quality life in an ancient street. It is a common-scene to some that three to four households have only one toilet system with their wall painting layers bound to peel off and their ceilings sagging owing to weathering.

Another rationale is that these old houses are symbolic of the unique architecture and serve as a mental panacea for hurry-sickness city-dwellers. Hardly can the modern-day people recreate such beauties as that by famous architects of yesterdays who utilized the past materials, and for that reason, some streets adorned with second-to-none buildings are ideal destinations for the visitors world-wide to savour themselves in the sense of serene old days. To those who are sucking in a life of craze, the tiny old houses resemble oases to ease their stress. Opponents have their points in the belief that as a result of the explosion of population, so crowded do streets turn out that these old, unsafe and dirty houses should be demolished to give way to skyscrapers to accommodate an ever-increasing number of people who flock to the city in the hope of a better life. Also, not until the cities are paved with modern buildings and wide roads do investors from other continents pay greater attention, which, in turn, generates a huge amount of profit for the entire nation.

In the final analysis, each idea has its own reasoning, but in my opinion, the presence of old houses is essential to the survival of any city for their originality and unforgettable destinations of travel lovers.

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IELTS Architecture Vocabulary

We all have topics that we are familiar with in IELTS. But, there are also other topics which we may meet with a blank mind. So, what can you do to fill in your knowledge gaps? In today’s episode Nick and I will look at a difficult topic for us – housing. We will start by covering some fundamental IELTS architecture vocabulary, and then show you how you can utilise Google to find essay ideas.

Plus, this will give us a chance to see  indirect vocabulary learning in action. Hopefully, by the end of the lesson, you will understand why this is a much better method than searching for model essays.

Below, you can find a summary of the episode, which includes all of the links to useful materials and the times of each part of the discussion (so you can go directly to the part you want to listen to)   🚀

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IELTS Architecture Essay Topics

In today’s episode we want to look at the topic of housing or architecture. I’m not talking about the well-used topic of city life, with the classic IELTS questions about overcrowding, the move from the countryside, or not knowing your neighbours, but rather the recent trend of essays topics that ask you to discuss the importance of building styles or architecture.

Some people think that  new houses should be built in the same style as older houses  in an area. Others believe that local councils should allow people to choose different designs for their houses. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

When designing a building, the most important thing for  architects to consider is the intended use of the building  rather than its outward appearance. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Some  cities create extra housing by building tall buildings.  Other cities do this by building on wide areas of land. Which do you think is the best solution to the problem of housing? 

This is just a small selection of the essays that appeared in 2021 with this theme (you can find more by looking at our 2021 archive of reported questions), but it is probably enough for you to understand that these questions are tricky for two reasons:

• They require a specific set of vocabulary (which many students may not have)
• They are an unusual topic, so you may not have any instant ideas that you can use as the basis for your arguments

Let’s start then by looking at some foundational topic-specific vocabulary that you should have in your lexis tool box to tackle speaking or writing on the topic of housing design.

What I realised when creating this chart was that the lexis you will need to successfully describe the houses in your built environment is going to depend very much on where you live in the world. The average British home is very different to one in China, Saudi Arabia, or even the US.

Therefore, this is not an exhaustive list of basic lexis!

Make sure that you have the lexis you need to talk about housing in your area by translating any missing words from your language into English.

How to find ideas for  IELTS Architecture Topics

I know that it can be frustrating if you are a doctor and you have to write an essay on architecture, but IELTS is designed to test your understanding and application of English in general, not medical English. 90% of the topics in IELTS require no specialist knowledge ( we all know that sugar makes us fat or the benefits of free education thanks to our common sense) , but there are some topics that you may not have a clear idea about. At least, not enough of an idea to write a coherent 300 word essay in 40 minutes. For those essays, it can be a good idea to spend half an hour or so reading about the topic online. However, let me be clear

I am not talking about searching for model IELTS essays!

I cannot tell you enough how poor 99% of “model essays” are. Almost all that claim to be Band 8.0 are Band 6.0 and very few have genuinely good ideas. No, I am taking about Googling for high-quality articles that will give you a good sense of the generally held views on a given topic. Is this time-consuming? Yes, but remember, the more you can engage with a topic, the more likely that you are going to absorb the information and be able to recall it in an exam.

There are two ways that you can search for information: by general topic, or by specific essay question. Let’s start with the former!

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Explore a general  I ELTS  topic

I Googled “why architecture is important” and these are the first 4 articles that appeared in my search results.

• HMC Architects –  https://hmcarchitects.com/news/how-does-architecture-impact-society-a-high-level-look-2019-10-18/
• Study Architecture –  https://studyarchitecture.com/blog/architecture-news/why-architecture-is-important/
• Designblendz –   https://www.designblendz.com/blog/4-reasons-why-good-architecture-is-important
• Impoff –  https://impoff.com/importance-of-architecture/

Usually those articles that appear at the top will be the most relevant, but not always. I would discount any article that are paid adverts (although you may not have many for IELTS topics!)  and results from discussion sites such as Quora or Reddit as it will be hard to monitor the relevance or quality of the information.

Once you have found 3 or 4 articles that look relevant, open them and scan the contents to understand their relevancy and difficulty. A good indication that a site will be the right level is if it contains headings and relatively short paragraphs. In fact, why not open those 4 articles now and decide which is the easiest to read and which is the most difficult (we will tell you in the episode what we think) .

Active Reading

It is important when you read that you do so actively. This means that as you are looking through the articles, you should be thinking if the information is relevant or not relevant, or if it might be of use in an argument in a future essay. Again, go back and read through the articles above and make notes of any main ideas. You can either summarise the text or copy and paste it. You may also want to highlight key phrases or concepts.  Let me do the first one to help you:

• architecture is a representation of society and of our culture . It shows how we see ourselves, as well as how we see the world.
• The style of buildings was originally shaped by the climate of a particular location , what materials were readily available, as well as the values of the society building them.
• Architecture not only affects society on a high level, but it can have a profound impact on its occupants. Everything from the layout of the space to the material finishes can contribute towards occupant health, mood, and productivity. It’s been shown that people who work in well-designed spaces take less sick leave, are more focused, and generally contribute more to their company. 
• Sterile, concrete landscapes and unimaginative buildings cause higher levels of stress.
• Future questions: how do we address the growing differentiation between economically diverse communities within cities?  How do we combat the continuous increase of the world’s population, and make sure that our cities retain our inherent desire to have a connection to the natural environment?

Find ideas for a specific I ELTS  essay question

This is where you are going to have to resist the urge to search for model essays! Trust me – if you can stick to genuine resources it is going to be far more effective. Why? Well, not only can you be 100% sure that your ideas are “correct”, but you can also harvest some fantastic topic specific lexis along the way.

Seriously, the vocabulary you learn in English textbooks (even ones written specifically for IELTS) cannot compare to the topic-specific vocabulary and collocations you find when reading original material. Don’t believe me? Well, see for yourself. In the episode Nick and I research ideas for this essay question:

Some cities create extra housing by building tall buildings. Other cities do this by building on wide areas of land. Which do you think is the best solution to the problem of housing? 

Why don’t you do it now by Googling “why are tall buildings better” and spending 10 minutes copying and pasting the advantages and disadvantages of tall buildings. Focus first on ideas (which you can check with us in the episode) and then go back and have at the look words you have copied and pasted. Can you see any words and phrases that could be useful in other essays about the built environment?

Again, here is an example to help you. This is a section of text I copied and pasted for an advantage of tall buildings. Look at all those lovely high-level phrases that you would probably never find in a textbook! Even better, they are being used in context, so you can see how they are used naturally in a sentence.

More room for workers and residents . In line with rising population  density , and advancements in engineering, height limits around the world are being revisited and revised to  maximise space for commercial and residential growth. They provide the opportunity to control urban sprawl with their relatively  small footprin t .

I know that studying for IELTS can be time-consuming, but if you need a very high-score and want to improve your ability to find good ideas and use high-level lexis, then using original material can be a great way to improve your level. After all, even if you know all the theory about finding ideas for essays ,  you still have to have some general knowledge of the topic to be able to do so!

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Writing about Architecture: 10 Tips for IELTS Students

Architecture is perhaps one of the most misunderstood genres of writing, and the topic can be overwhelming to those unfamiliar with it. However, it is possible to write about architecture successfully.

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is an academic test used by universities and government agencies worldwide to assess a student’s English proficiency. 

It is the most widely used language test globally and has replaced other popular tests, like TOEFL and Pearson’s PTE. The IELTS exam consists of four separate components tested on a computer or through a paper-based version: Reading, Listening, Writing, and Speaking.

The IELTS is a test that assesses your ability to understand and use academic language. This means you can expect most of the task one questions will be more formal and written more like an essay. 

Task two will, however, be information-based, just like the other tests on the IELTS. The best way to succeed in this section is to master the following 10 tips for writing about architecture.

The topic of architecture is extensive. It’s not just looking at buildings; it includes many different concepts, including aesthetics, design, and engineering. You can also be asked to evaluate a proposal or draw comparisons between two authors’ ideas. 

As you might expect, there are different types of questions you could see in the Writing band of the IELTS exam. However, if you’ve chosen this topic to write about, you can do various things that will help you spend less time giving your answer and more time answering the questions available.

 All is not lost if you’re struggling with this IELTS writing task! Below, we have some great tips to consider when planning, working on, and revising your answer.

We asked academic experts to provide us with some tips to help you write essays and better papers about architecture.

Using Specific Examples

The problem with most student essays is that they don’t include enough examples of the features being discussed. If you say ‘this building has two floors’, mention what is on each floor and how it is used.

Be as specific as possible when giving examples. If you say that a building is beautiful, include some details about it – for instance, ‘the elegant arches of the bridge’ or ‘the pastel colors of the walls.’ This helps show the examiner that you have a good range of vocabulary and can use it accurately.

Never Give Your Opinions

 Remember that in IELTS task 2 writing, you shouldn’t give your opinion on the topic if it isn’t asked for in the question. Many students make this mistake, especially when writing about architecture or art.

The Appropriate Structure for Your Essay

Make sure you follow an appropriate structure for your essay: introduction, body with main points, and conclusion paragraphs.

Support Your Points

Include supporting details for each main point (if relevant) and a range of linking devices (e.g., moreover, however). When comparing two buildings, do not say which one you prefer without explaining why. For example, if you were comparing two houses, you could say that one had more space than the other but did not have enough light for your taste. This shows that you can critically evaluate both buildings and decide which one is best for your needs.

Write About Buildings You Like

It’s always more fun to write about buildings you like. So, just pick the one you like if it has a cool name, even better!

Look for Interesting Details

Buildings have lots of details that can be interesting to read about. This can include things like windows, arches, or mirrors in the building. They also go by different names like ‘decorations’ or ‘ornaments’. These are good things to write about and show your knowledge of architecture.

Don’t Write Too Much About Big Buildings

Big buildings can be harder to write about because there is so much detail. Instead, try writing your essay on a smaller building with fewer details to talk about and describe. This will make it easier for you when you want to describe the building in your essay and show your knowledge of architecture.

Learn Some Architectural Terms

You will need to know many common terms when describing a building. For example, you could use the word ‘symmetrical’ if the building has an equal number of windows on each side. You would say it was ‘elegant’ if it was tall and narrow. Or you might refer to its ‘ornate decoration’.

Use Linking Words and Phrases

You will probably have to write several paragraphs in your IELTS exam. This means that you need to write good topic sentences and use linking words to link your sentences together. It is very easy to repeat the same word too many times, so try using synonyms (different words which mean the same thing) or rephrasing your sentence. For example:

“The interior of the church was very dark” “The inside of the church was very dark” “Inside the church, there was almost no natural light”.

Describe the Building and its History

This might be the easiest way to write about a building, but it can be very boring if you just list facts and history. Take this example:

Describe a historical building that you know of. You should say:

• Where it is located;
• What does it look like?
• When the building was complete; and explain why people visit this place.

Some extra tips for writing an essay about architecture

• Think about how modern and traditional buildings can be different.
• Understand about how different types of buildings have different purposes.
• Think about how architects use color in their designs.
• When discussing the materials used in a building, think of adjectives that describe them (e.g. wooden floors, bare brick walls, etc.)
• Think about what you would like to see changed in your town/city center? What would you keep the same? Why?
• Think about what parts of your town/city center are busiest at weekends, at lunchtime, after you finish work, and on weekdays? Why do you think this is?
• Think of reasons why some people might like or dislike different types of architecture (e.g. modern vs traditional)
• Is there anything else you would like to see added to your town/city center? Why do you think this would be good for the area?

The information provided in this article is to help you when it is time to sit for your IELTS exam for writing your architecture essay . There are free mock tests available online, which you can use to practice before D-Day. If you would like further assistance to help you achieve your dreams, contact professional essay writers and academic experts will be able to guide you through any questions.

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• Historic Buildings: Preserve or Replace?

IELTS WRITING TASK 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task. Write at least 250 words about the following topic:

Should a city make an effort to safeguard its ancient and historic structures or demolish them to make way for contemporary buildings? What is your perspective on this matter?

Sample Answer, C1 English Level, Advanced, Band Score 6.5-7.5

• Paraphrase: The topic concerns whether a city should prioritize the preservation of ancient and historic structures or make way for contemporary buildings.
• Main opinion: A city should make a dedicated effort to safeguard its ancient and historic structures as they hold significant cultural and historical value.
• Support main opinion: Ancient and historic structures serve as tangible reminders of a city’s past, reflecting its cultural heritage and historical development. Preserving these landmarks allows future generations to connect with their roots and learn from the rich history that shaped their community.
• Support main opinion: Moreover, these structures often boast unique architectural designs and artistic craftsmanship that cannot be replicated by contemporary buildings. They showcase the talent and ingenuity of past generations, inspiring present and future architects and artists alike.
• Summarize: The question of preserving ancient and historic structures versus modern buildings is complex.
• Restate main opinion: From my perspective, safeguarding these landmarks is essential to preserve a city’s cultural and historical heritage, fostering a strong sense of identity and pride among its residents. By cherishing the past, we can create a more meaningful and culturally rich future for our cities.

The question of whether a city should prioritize the preservation of ancient and historic structures or replace them with modern buildings is a topic that requires thoughtful consideration. In my view, a city should make a dedicated effort to safeguard its ancient and historic structures, as they hold significant cultural and historical value, contributing to a city’s identity and sense of heritage.

Ancient and historic structures serve as tangible reminders of a city’s past, reflecting its cultural heritage and historical development. Preserving these landmarks allows future generations to connect with their roots and learn from the rich history that shaped their community. Historical sites also attract tourists and visitors, boosting the city’s tourism industry and promoting cultural exchange.

Moreover, these structures often boast unique architectural designs and artistic craftsmanship that cannot be replicated by contemporary buildings. They showcase the talent and ingenuity of past generations, inspiring present and future architects and artists alike.

On the other hand, demolishing historic structures in favor of modern buildings can lead to a loss of a city’s cultural identity. It risks erasing the city’s unique charm and character, leaving behind a generic urban landscape lacking historical significance.

In conclusion, the question of whether a city should preserve its ancient and historic structures or make way for contemporary buildings is a complex one. From my perspective, safeguarding these landmarks is essential to preserve a city’s cultural and historical heritage, fostering a strong sense of identity and pride among its residents. By cherishing the past, we can create a more meaningful and culturally rich future for our cities. 

The question of whether a city should prioritize the preservation of ancient and historic structures or demolish them to make way for contemporary buildings is a topic that requires careful consideration. In my opinion, a city should make a concerted effort to safeguard its ancient and historic structures, as they hold invaluable cultural and historical significance, contributing to a city’s identity and sense of heritage.

Ancient and historic structures serve as tangible connections to a city’s past, reflecting its cultural heritage and historical evolution. Preserving these landmarks allows future generations to connect with their roots and learn from the rich history that shapes their community. Historical sites also attract tourists and visitors, contributing to the city’s economy and promoting cultural exchange.

Furthermore, these structures often boast unique architectural designs and artistic craftsmanship that cannot be replicated by contemporary buildings. They serve as living testimonies to the craftsmanship and ingenuity of the past, inspiring present and future architects and artists alike.

On the other hand, demolishing historic structures in favor of modern buildings risks erasing a city’s unique identity and cultural legacy. It may lead to a generic urban landscape devoid of character and history, resulting in a loss of the city’s charm and distinctiveness.

In conclusion, the question of whether a city should safeguard its ancient and historic structures or demolish them for contemporary development presents a crucial dilemma. From my perspective, preserving these landmarks is paramount, as they hold cultural, historical, and architectural significance that enriches a city’s identity and provides valuable learning experiences for future generations. By cherishing our past, we can build a more meaningful and culturally rich future for our cities.

The question of whether a city should preserve its ancient and historic structures or replace them with modern buildings is a topic that sparks considerable debate. Some argue for the preservation of historical sites, while others advocate for demolishing them to accommodate contemporary development. After careful consideration, I firmly believe that a city should make a dedicated effort to safeguard its ancient and historic structures, as they hold invaluable cultural, historical, and architectural significance.

Ancient and historic structures are tangible links to a city’s past, providing a window into its cultural heritage and historical evolution. Preserving these landmarks allows future generations to connect with their roots and learn from the rich history that shapes their identity. Historical sites also attract tourists and visitors, contributing to the city’s economy and promoting cultural exchange.

Furthermore, these structures often possess unique architectural value and artistic craftsmanship that cannot be replicated by contemporary buildings. They serve as living testimonies to the craftsmanship and ingenuity of the past, inspiring present and future architects and artists alike.

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Architecture That’s Built to Heal

Posted by David S. Wills | May 9, 2018 | TED Video Lessons | 2

Today’s TED talk is located at the junction between architecture and society. It is a question of race and building. Could the design of a building help heal racial wounds that go back centuries? Michael Murphy thinks so. In his 2016 lecture, he tells a fascinating story of how working on a house helped save his father’s life, and how that led Michael to a career in architecture that has made a profound difference on lives around the world.

Watch the video and decide whether the statements below are TRUE or FALSE. (Answers are below.)

• The speaker enrolled at architecture school because of an experience with his dad.
• Bruce Nizeye confirmed the speaker’s views about architecture.
• In Butaro, they used a rare kind of stone.
• Malawi has a very high instance of infant mortality.
• The United States has not built a memorial to atrocities in its own past.
• One team has worked on building the memorial.

Now go back to 3:32 and listen to fill the gaps. Use no more than three words.

That following summer, I was in the back of a Land Rover with a few classmates, bumping over the _____1______ of Rwanda. For the next year, I’d be living in Butaro in this old ____2____,which was a jail after the genocide. I was there to _____3______  a new type of hospital with Dr. Farmer and his team. If hallways are making patients sicker, what if we could design a hospital that flips the hallways on the outside, and makes people walk in the ____4____? If mechanical systems rarely work, what if we could design a hospital that could breathe through _____5_____,and meanwhile reduce its environmental footprint?

Architecture is a topic that does sometimes come up in the IELTS exam. It can appear in any section, including the writing test. Here’s a question from task 2:

Some believe buildings should be built in a way that serves their purpose rather than just look beautiful. Others, however, say buildings should represent art too. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Do you need an extensive knowledge of technical vocabulary to answer this question? No, of course not! The IELTS writing will only require general knowledge and non-specialist vocabulary. You should be able to answer this question with limited reference to the features of a building .

Here’s my sample answer:

Opinions are divided on the extent to which architects should focus on functionality or aesthetics . While some people believe that buildings should be primarily designed to fulfill a specific purpose , others believe that they should do more than this and become a form of art. This essay will argue that buildings ought to be visually appealing as well as functional . Clearly, buildings must be designed for a purpose. Whether they are residential, commercial, or industrial, every building is built to do something useful. It could be argued that this is the only purpose for a building, and that anything else is wasteful or extravagant . It seems absurd from this perspective that money is wasted on beautifying a factory in an industrial zone, or a silo on a remote farm. However, most buildings are located in or around urban centers and as people have to view them every day, it seems important that they do more than simply serve a purpose. Instead, buildings can positively change the landscape. Ugly grey apartment blocks or old brick factories may create an oppressive atmosphere , while creative and playful architecture may boost people’s spirits . All around the world, urban planners have sought to bring vibrancy and charm to cities with innovative designs, and the effect can improve morale, encouraging civic pride  and even strengthening the economy. In conclusion, although architecture should of course take into consideration the function of a building first and foremost, it is also important to view building design as an opportunity to enhance people’s lives and create a better environment.

T/F questions

• F – he thought differently and changed the speaker’s views
• F – it was an abundant local resource
• F – two teams have worked on it
• mountainous hillside
• design and build
• natural ventilation

About The Author

David S. Wills

David S. Wills is the author of Scientologist! William S. Burroughs and the 'Weird Cult' and the founder/editor of Beatdom literary journal. He lives and works in rural Cambodia and loves to travel. He has worked as an IELTS tutor since 2010, has completed both TEFL and CELTA courses, and has a certificate from Cambridge for Teaching Writing. David has worked in many different countries, and for several years designed a writing course for the University of Worcester. In 2018, he wrote the popular IELTS handbook, Grammar for IELTS Writing and he has since written two other books about IELTS. His other IELTS website is called IELTS Teaching.

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The subject seemed to be weird at first, but at the end I found it extremely interesting and also thank you for your informative piece of writing. is it possible for you to teach us more about writing?

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British Architecture: IELTS Reading Passage with Questions and Answers

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Updated on 12 January, 2024

Kanika Pruthi

Sr. content writer & study abroad expert.

British architecture has long stood as a testament to the country’s rich history and cultural evolution. From the intricate Gothic cathedrals to the modernist designs of the 20th century, the architectural landscape of Britain offers a diverse and fascinating study. This article aims to explore these architectural marvels, providing insights for learners and IELTS aspirants.

Table of Contents

Passage: british architecture: a journey through time, questions and answers, concluding paragraph, download e-books for ielts preparation.

The architectural landscape of Britain tells a fascinating story of cultural and historical evolution, characterized by a variety of styles that have emerged, evolved, and sometimes intertwined over centuries. This 800-word passage aims to take readers on a journey through the different eras of British architecture, highlighting key characteristics, notable examples, and their historical contexts.

The Medieval Period: Gothic Splendour

British architecture during the medieval period is best known for its Gothic style, a remarkable departure from the Romanesque architecture that preceded it. Gothic architecture, which flourished from the late 12th century to the 16th century, was marked by pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses – an innovation that allowed buildings to be taller and more light-filled than ever before. This period's quintessential example is the Westminster Abbey in London, with its intricate stone carvings, towering spires, and stunning stained glass windows. These structures were not just buildings; they were symbolic representations of religious devotion and the burgeoning power of the church.

The Tudor Era: A Blend of Tradition and Innovation

The 16th century ushered in the Tudor style, a transition phase that blended the Gothic with the emerging Renaissance influences. This era is characterized by the introduction of brick as a building material, seen in the iconic Hampton Court Palace. The Tudor style also brought more domestic features, such as patterned brickwork, chimneys, and oriel windows, reflecting a shift from the religious to the secular in architecture.

The 17th and 18th Centuries: The Rise of Neoclassicism

Neoclassicism became prominent in British architecture during the 17th and 18th centuries. This style, inspired by the classical architecture of ancient Greece and Rome, was a response to the ornate Baroque style. It sought to revive the simplicity and elegance of classical forms. The British Museum in London is a hallmark of this style, featuring grand columns and pediments. This period also saw the development of the Palladian style, an adaptation of the Venetian architect Andrea Palladio's ideas, which emphasized symmetry and proportion.

The Victorian Era: Eclecticism and Innovation

The 19th century, known as the Victorian era, witnessed an eclectic mix of styles, reflecting the era's spirit of exploration, industrialization, and empire. There was a revival of Gothic (known as Neo-Gothic), along with influences from the Middle East and Asia. This period also saw the use of new materials, such as iron and glass, leading to groundbreaking designs like the Crystal Palace, built for the Great Exhibition of 1851. Victorian architecture often featured elaborate decoration, asymmetry, and a strong emphasis on verticality.

The 20th Century: Modernism and Beyond

The 20th century brought about a significant shift with the emergence of modernism, which emphasized function, simplicity, and the use of modern materials. British architecture during this period was influenced by the international style, characterized by minimal ornamentation and a focus on horizontal lines. However, post-war Britain also saw the rise of Brutalism, a style that used raw concrete as its main material, exemplified by buildings such as the Barbican Centre in London. This style was a response to the need for quick, economical construction methods in the post-war period.

The Contemporary Scene: Diversity and Sustainability

In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, British architecture has become increasingly diverse, with a focus on sustainability, innovation, and the blending of old and new. Architects like Norman Foster and Zaha Hadid have contributed to the skyline of London with buildings like 30 St Mary Axe (The Gherkin) and the London Aquatics Centre. These contemporary structures often incorporate eco-friendly materials and technologies, reflecting a growing awareness of environmental issues.

Q1. What feature is characteristic of Gothic architecture?

a) Rounded arches

b) Pointed arches

c) Large domes

d) Ornate carvings

A1. The correct answer is b) Pointed arches. Gothic architecture is renowned for its pointed arches, which allowed for taller, more light-filled structures.

Q2. Which era introduced brick as a building material in British architecture?

a) Medieval

c) Victorian

d) Modernist

A2. b) Tudor is the correct answer. The Tudor era marked the introduction of brick, moving away from the stone used in earlier periods.

Q3. The British Museum is an example of which architectural style?

c) Neoclassicism

d) Brutalism

A3. c) Neoclassicism is the correct answer. The British Museum's design is inspired by ancient Greek and Roman architecture, typical of the Neoclassical style.

Q4. True or False: The Victorian era predominantly used glass and iron in its architecture.

A4. True. The Victorian era saw the innovative use of new materials like iron and glass, exemplified by the Crystal Palace.

Q5. Fill in the blank: The ____________ Centre in London is a prime example of Brutalist architecture.

a) Tate Modern

b) British Museum

c) Barbican

d) National Gallery

A5. c) Barbican is the correct answer. The Barbican Centre is known for its Brutalist style, characterized by stark, concrete structures.

Q6. What architectural element is a key feature of the Gothic style seen in Westminster Abbey?

a) Symmetrical layouts

b) Flying buttresses

c) Minimalist interiors

d) Use of steel

A6. b) Flying buttresses. These structures were crucial in Gothic architecture for supporting the weight of the roof and walls, allowing for higher ceilings and more windows.

Q7. The Tudor style is a blend of which two architectural elements?

a) Gothic and Renaissance

b) Neoclassical and Baroque

c) Modernist and Victorian

d) Romanesque and Byzantine

A7. a) Gothic and Renaissance. The Tudor style is a distinctive blend of the medieval Gothic and the classical Renaissance styles.

Q8. Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of Victorian architecture?

a) Eclectic designs

b) Use of iron and glass

c) Minimalist structures

d) Innovative material use

A8. c) Minimalist structures. Victorian architecture is known for its complexity and eclecticism, not minimalism.

Q9. Fill in the blank: The ____________ style, seen in the British Museum, was inspired by the architecture of ancient Greece and Rome.

c) Neoclassical

d) Brutalist

A9. c) Neoclassical. The Neoclassical style, as seen in the British Museum, drew inspiration from the classical architecture of ancient civilizations.

Q10. True or False: The Barbican Centre's design is representative of the Gothic architectural style.

A10. False. The Barbican Centre is an example of Brutalist architecture, not Gothic. It features the stark, concrete aesthetics characteristic of Brutalism.

Exploring British architecture is akin to traveling through time, witnessing the evolution of styles and materials that reflect the nation's history and culture. For IELTS learners, understanding these architectural transformations offers not just knowledge for an exam, but a deeper appreciation of Britain’s artistic and historical legacy.

Kanika has 5+ years of experience as a writer and content developer. She has written for a wide range of industry verticals, including hospitality, restaurants, non-profits, finance, IT, HR, technology, payroll, and education. She has worked as a creator for a few leading companies and has also helped brands grow through her creative writing.

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• Buildings Vocabulary

Buildings vocabulary is particularly useful for answering Part 1 Speaking questions as you are very likely to get asked about your home or your home town. Buildings and different styles of architecture can also come up in Speaking Parts 2 and 3 as well as forming the topic of Writing, Reading or Listening questions.

Here are a few things you could be asked about:

• The style of house you live in
• Landmark buildings in your home town
• Your interest in architecture
• A historic building you have visited      
• A modern building you like
• The historical value of old buildings
• The role of architecture in society
• How technology influences building design

This page of contains over 100 common words and phrases which is more than enough buildings vocabulary for you to answer any question related to buildings and architecture.

I’ve also added an explanation for each one and a sample sentence to show it in context. This will help you to learn how to use it correctly.

Don’t try to learn them all. Look at my suggestions below as to the best way to use this comprehensive list of vocabulary.

To help you create the best possible answers, I’ve included four things here:

• IELTS-style questions on the topics of  buildings and architecture
• Sample answers
• A list of common buildings vocabulary with definitions & sample sentences
• Links to online reading and listening resources

You’ll find PDF downloads of both the questions and sample answers and the buildings vocabulary list at the bottom of the respective sections.

The questions relate to the Speaking test because this part of the exam offers the broadest range of possible questions on this topic. They give the best opportunity for me to demonstrate the vocabulary and for you to practise using it.

I’ve included IELTS-style questions and answers for all three parts of the Speaking test. I've highlighted keywords and phrases in  bold .

You'll find these words and phrases, and many others, in the vocabulary list beneath. The list also includes explanations and sample sentences and there’s an audio to listen to the pronunciation.

The buildings vocabulary list contains words and phrases relevant to all parts of the IELTS exam.

Finally, at the bottom of the page, I've added links to topical articles, short videos and podcasts that will help you to improve both your vocabulary and your reading and listening skills.

IELTS-Style Speaking Test Questions and Answers

Common buildings vocabulary is highlighted in  bold .

1) What types of buildings are there where you live?

In the town, there are lots of Victorian houses constructed from locally made bricks and some modern shops and offices. We certainly don’t have any high-rise apartments or skyscrapers in the area.

2) Are there any monuments in your hometown?

The most famous monument is a clock tower called the Albert Clock in memory of Prince Albert the husband of Queen Victoria. There’s also a war memorial in the park.

3) Do you like to visit historic buildings?

Yes, I particularly enjoy visiting old manor houses and I’m lucky that there are several interesting ones in the area where I live. I also like looking around old ruins both in my own country and abroad.

4) What are the landmarks in your hometown?

I’d say that there are three – a church with a tall steeple , a six- storey office block that’s an ugly monstrosity and a hill that used to have an old castle on it.

5) Have you ever visited a famous structure?

When I was in Australia, I went to the Sydney Opera House. It’s the most stunning piece of architecture I’ve ever seen and such an iconic building .

Describe a style of architecture that you like.

You should say:

• what style it is
• what it looks like
• where you can see it

and explain why you like this style.

I like many different styles of architecture but my favourite is probably Art Deco . The exterior of buildings designed in this style generally looks symmetrical . They’re not at all ornate , in fact, you’d say they were quite plain. Yet I find them so beautiful, with elegant lines and simple shapes.

The façade is often decorated with geometric patterns created from straight lines or from stylised designs based on plants, animals and sunrays like you see on Art Deco furniture, jewellery and other artefacts of the 1920s and 1930s when the style was developed. The most popular building material was concrete but glazed brick was also used.

Architects designed Art Deco houses, public buildings and commercial buildings and most of them are still standing today. During the 20s and 30s, many cinemas were built in towns and cities across the country. Lots of them closed down when new multiplex movie theatres were constructed . Some fell into disrepair and had to be demolished but others have been renovated for use as shops and their Art Deco features preserved . There is one in my town which is now a night club.

Although it’s long past its heyday , Art Deco has remained popular as a design style and you can sometimes see it in modern buildings . For example, the new bus station in my town has many Art Deco features , in particular, the style of the windows , the shape and symmetry of the building and the decoration around the large clock set in the wall.

For people who are real fans of Art Deco architecture , I recommend that they visit the town of Napier in New Zealand because almost every building is Art Deco . It’s an amazing place. They have tour guides to show you around and tell you about the history of the town. Sadly it was destroyed in an earthquake in 1931 and completely rebuild in the architectural style of the day – Art Deco . I don’t think there is anywhere else in the world like it and I’m sure that it was my visit there that really got me interested in this beautiful architectural style.

1) What kinds of people like to visit historic buildings?

In my country, people of all ages and from many different backgrounds enjoy looking around historic buildings . At the weekends and during school holidays they are popular with families who visit for a day out. Many old manor houses have extensive grounds which are ideal for the kids to run around and play in.

Lots of historic sites offer educational tours and activities for schools as they are the perfect place to learn about how people lived in the past. So, most historic houses get school trips visiting. Old castles are particularly popular with school kids.

Another common group of visitors is retired people because they have plenty of time for leisure activities. I think they are attracted by the tearooms as much all the interesting things there are to look at and learn about as most historic houses have one and they always serve delicious cakes.

Finally, I mustn’t forget the tourists. For the most famous historic buildings , they are the largest group of visitors.

2) Do you think it’s worth the money to preserve old buildings?

That’s such a difficult question to answer. It costs millions of pounds to preserve historic buildings and there are many other important things that the money could be spent on. I suppose it depends where the money comes from.

I think it’s true to say that most of the money spent on restoring and maintaining the old properties in my country comes from donations, entrance fees and charitable funds. People want to visit historic buildings and are happy to pay for them to be looked after. If the government was responsible for their upkeep, it would be more difficult to justify the huge costs involved.

Of course, historic properties are part of our heritage and that’s important preserve . They also attract a large number of overseas tourists who contribute a significant amount to our economy.

So, weighing it up, I’d have to say that I do think it’s worth the money to preserve old buildings .

3) How have buildings changed in the past few years?

As far as houses are concerned, there are 3 main differences that I can think of. First, it’s now common to see three- storey homes on new housing estates which you never used to get and there are not so many bungalows being built. This is because there is less building land available than, say, twenty years ago.

Second, new houses are more eco-friendly , with better insulation and improved double glazing to make them more energy efficient .

Third, there are new rules concerning things like the width of doors and the height of switches so that new properties are wheelchair friendly .

With regard to public buildings and commercial buildings , the development of stronger building materials and new construction techniques means that architects are beginning to design more Futuristic buildings .

Click this link to get a PDF download of these practise questions & sample answers.

Download PDF Now

* Important

• Do  not  try and learn this list of buildings vocabulary.
• Identify the vocabulary you find useful for answering practise questions about buildings and architecture.
• Record these in your vocabulary notebook and practise using them regularly.

I recommend that you create your own answers to the Speaking questions on this page. You will find many other IELTS-style practise questions by searching online. 

For help on how to learn vocabulary, what to learn and how to record it, visit these pages:

How to Learn Vocabulary for IELTS

Top 6 Types of IELTS Vocabulary & Topic Word Lists

Buildings Vocabulary – Common Words & Phrases

Buildings Vocabulary Set 1: Key definitions

building – a structure that has a roof and walls

- There used to be a field behind my house but now it’s covered in buildings .

architecture – the practise of designing buildings; the style in which buildings are made

- Paulo studied architecture at university before joining the family building business.

- My favourite style of architecture is Georgian because it is bold and beautiful but not too ornate.

architect – a person who designs buildings

- Tammy’s friends laughed when she said she wanted to design houses when she left school but she grew up to be an award-winning architect .

feature – a distinctive attribute or aspect of something

- The best feature of the new church in our town is the stunning, modern spire.

façade – the front of a building, especially a large or attractive building

- The British Museum in London is famous for its grand Classical façade .

landmark – an object or building that is easily seen and recognized from a distance, especially one that enables someone to establish their location

- The Eiffel Tower is probably the best-loved landmark in Paris.

heritage – things, such as buildings and traditions, that are important to a nation's history

- Some people complain that large historic houses cost a lot to maintain but they are part of our heritage and should be preserved.

Buildings Vocabulary Pronunciation

Buildings Vocabulary Set 2: Building Materials

building material – any material which is used for construction purposes

- The house would look fabulous when it was finished but at the moment it was little more than a pile of building materials .

brick – a small rectangular block typically made of fired or sun-dried clay, used in building

- They decided to build their house with bricks rather than concrete blocks.

concrete – building material that is made by mixing together cement, sand, small stones and water

- Concrete is a very popular building material because it is strong and can be moulded into different shapes.

reinforced concrete – concrete with metal bars or wire embedded in to increase its strength

- Reinforced concrete is the perfect material for constructing large structures such as tower blocks and bridges.

steel – a strong hard metal that is made of a mixture of iron and carbon

- Modern architects such as Zaha Hadid use steel to create stunning Futuristic designs rather than just using it to form the hidden framework of a building.

timber – wood that is prepared for use in building

- In Sweden, timber is a popular building material because they have lots of forests.

stone – a hard, solid substance found in the ground, used for building

- Stone has been used as a building material for centuries.

glass – a hard, brittle, man-made material that you can see through

- These days, they can make glass that is so strong that you can have whole walls made out of it.

marble – a type of hard stone, often with a beautiful lined pattern going through it, that can be highly polished

- The Taj Mahal is the most famous building in the world made from marble .

Buildings Vocabulary Set 3: Types of building

See my Home Vocabulary list for 18 different types of house/accommodation.

Other types of building:

manor house – a large country house surrounded by land that belongs to it

- It’s so nice to see the old manor house being renovated after the previous owners let it fall into disrepair.

castle – a strong building, often large, built in the past by a ruler or important person to protect the people inside from attack

- Most castles were built on a hill so that the occupants could see the enemy approaching.

sky-scraper – a very tall building

- With the development of stronger building materials, they are able to build skyscrapers higher and higher.

office block – a building made up of many different offices, often of different companies

- Many old buildings in the city are being demolished to make way for smart new office blocks .

warehouse – large building built for the storage of raw materials or manufactured goods before they are distributed for sale

- There is a real trend for converting old warehouses into fashionable apartments.

public building – a building owned by the state or local government and used by the public, e.g. townhall, library, museum, leisure centre

- Many public buildings are quite old and cost a lot of money to maintain

commercial building – buildings that are used for commercial purposes, such as, office blocks, shops and warehouses

- Most of my architect friends design houses but I much prefer working on commercial buildings .

prefabricated building (prefab) – buildings that are made in sections in a factory and can be put together quickly

- Prefabs were popular after the war when many new homes had to be built quickly but are coming back into fashion with new technology and modern designs.

historic building – an old building that is important to history

- We are fortunate in my country to have many magnificent historic buildings .

a ruin – a building reduced to a state of decay and collapse

- One of the most visited historic sites in the world is the Inca ruins at Machu Picchu in Peru. 

monument – a statue, building, or other structure erected to commemorate a notable person or event, often of historical importance

- India gate is one of the most recognisable monuments in India.

Buildings Vocabulary Set 4: Features of buildings

column – large, upright pillar, typically cylindrical, supporting the upper part of a building

- The huge columns of many ruined Greek temples are still standing today.

pillar – a tall vertical structure of stone, brick, wood, or metal, used as a support for a building

- The roof was supported by two rows of brick pillars .

arch – a curved symmetrical structure spanning an opening and typically supporting the weight of a bridge, roof, or wall above it

- Old churches are one of the best places to see impressive arches .

steeple – a tall pointed roof, usually on a church

- The church steeple could be seen for many miles away from the town.

spire – similar to a steeple but usually a narrower structure

- Skyscrapers such as the Shanghai World Finance Center often have a spire built on top to make them taller and thus increase their prestige.

tower – a tall, narrow building, either free-standing or forming part of a large building such as a church or castle

- There was an amazing view over the city from the top of the tower .

dome – a rounded roof

- The dome of the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul is one of the most recognisable domes in the world.

balcony – a platform enclosed by a wall or bars on the outside of a building, with access from an upper-floor window or door

- My dream home would have a balcony overlooking the sea.

Buildings Vocabulary Set 5: Popular styles of architecture

(These words are all proper nouns so start with a capital letter.)

Classical  – characteristic of the architecture of ancient Greece and Rome

Gothic  – characterised by large expanses of glass, clustered columns, sharply pointed spires, intricate sculptures and pointed arches

Georgian  – based on the simple elegance of classical architecture, with little ornamentation. Symmetry of design was important.

Victorian  – characterised by sash windows set in bay windows, an asymmetrical shape, bright colours and decorative features

Art Deco  – characterised by  simple, clean shapes, usually with a ‘streamlined’ look and decoration that is geometric or stylised forms of plants, animals and sunrays

Islamic  – known for its arches, domes, minarets, geometric designs, courtyards and often colourful tile decoration

Modernist  – typically characterized by simple designs in glass, steel and reinforced concrete and no ornamentation

Futuristic  – extremely modern and unusual in appearance, as if belonging to a future time

If there is a particular style of architecture that you like, focus on that one and learn appropriate vocabulary related to it. There may also be styles of architecture very specific to your own country.

If there’s a style of architecture common in your town or city, learn the buildings vocabulary that will enable you to talk about it easily.

Buildings Vocabulary Set 6: Descriptions

elegant – graceful and stylish in appearance

- Amira loved the elegant lines of the building’s Art Deco façade.

stunning – extremely impressive or attractive

- Igor had doubts about the Futuristic design of the new library building but had to admit that it looked absolutely stunning when finished.

eye-catching – very attractive or noticeable

- She found the carved stone pillars particularly eye-catching .

ornate –  covered with a lot of decoration, especially complicated designs

- It’s common for grand manor houses to have ornate ceilings.

a radical design – extreme

- Pilau liked his buildings to stand out and was well-known for his radical designs .

controversial – something that people have strong opinions about; something that people either love or hate

- The design of the new town hall was certainly controversial and strongly opposed by many people.

iconic – in architecture, a design that is 'ground-breaking' and sets new standards or a building that represents a particular style of architecture

- The Sydney Opera House is Australia’s most iconic building.

state of the art – incorporating the newest ideas and features

- The new hospital was state of the art and medical professionals from across the country were eager to work there.

spacious – having lots of space for people to move around in

- Older properties tend to have more spacious rooms than modern homes.

geometric – patterns or shapes consisting of regular shapes or lines

- Many styles of architecture incorporate geometric designs both for strength as well for decoration.

symmetrical – where one side is the same as the other

- If you cut a symmetrical design in half, one side is the mirror image of the other.

ugly / unsightly   – unpleasant to look at; not attractive

- I think that the houses being built on many new housing estates are really ugly .

monstrosity – a thing, especially a building, which is very large and unsightly

- The civic centre in our town, of typical 1960’s design, is a total monstrosity and I wish they’d demolish it to build something more attractive.

eyesore – a building that is not attractive

fall into disrepair – to be in a damaged state, often to the extent that it is dangerous

- The cinema used to be a beautiful building but has become a bit of an eyesore since it fell into disrepair .

past its heyday – no longer at the peak of popularity or success

- Although Victorian architecture is past its heyday , Victorian townhouses are still very popular as they make spacious family homes.

derelict – in very poor condition as a result of disuse and neglect

demolish – completely destroy a building

They are going to demolish the derelict buildings down at the docks to make way for a development of new waterside apartments.

Buildings Vocabulary Set 7: Improving a property

See my Home Vocabulary list for some home improvement words and phrases.

Here is some related buildings vocabulary:

preserve – to keep looking the same

- The National Trust is a charity in the UK that is dedicated to restoring and preserving historical buildings.

transform – to change something completely, usually to improve it

- The new owners transformed the derelict manor house into a stunning country hotel.

maintain – keep something in a good condition by checking and repairing it regularly

- Old buildings generally cost more to maintain than ones built with modern materials.

Buildings Vocabulary Set 8: Buildings & the environment

energy efficient – using little electricity, gas, etc.

- These days, one of the most important considerations in building design and the choice of building materials is energy efficiency .

insulation – material used to stop heat escaping

- In cold climates, it’s important for buildings to be well insulated and glass fibre is often used as roof insulation .

double glazing – windows which have two layers of glass with a space between them, designed to reduce the loss of heat and exclude noise

- The first thing they did to improve the old property was to put in double glazed windows.

eco-friendly – not harmful to the environment

- Installing solar panels to cut down on the use of fossil fuels is one of the best ways to make your home eco-friendly .

wheelchair friendly – meets the needs of people who use a wheelchair in terms of access and internal services

- Historic houses that are open to the public are required to make alterations to ensure that they are as wheelchair friendly as is practically possible.

Buildings Vocabulary Set 9: Basic vocabulary

exterior  – the outside of something, especially a building

- The  exterior  of the pretty little cottage was painted pink.

interior   – the inside of something, especially a building

- The cottage had small windows, making the  interior  quite dark.

ceiling – the top inside surface of a room

- A popular feature of Georgian properties is their high ceilings which make rooms feel really spacious.

floor – the lower surface of a room that people walk on

- Bare floorboards are very popular in the homes of today but I prefer carpet as it makes floors warmer to walk on.

stairs – a long set of steps inside a building joining the different levels

- The children were told not to leave their toys on the landing in case someone tripped over them and fell down the stairs .

storey – a level of a building

- The three- storey house with an extra bedroom in the attic was perfect for Milek, Edyta and their four children.

fireplace – a space in the wall at the base of a chimney for a fire to burn

- When people renovate Victorian properties they often remove the old fireplaces but some keep them as decorative features.

For the vocabulary related to the different rooms in a house see my Home Vocabulary list.

Buildings Vocabulary Set 10: Other vocabulary

blueprint – a design plan or other technical drawing

- Bruno and Claudia were so excited when the architect rang to say that the blueprints of their new house were ready for them to look at.

design – a plan or drawing produced to show the look of something, e.g. a building, before it is created

- Rahul worked closely with his clients to create a design that perfectly matched their idea of their dream home.

planning permission – formal permission from a local authority for the erection or alteration of a building

- It’s very difficult to get planning permission to make alterations to a historic building.

building site – an area of land on which a  building or a group of buildings  is in the process of being built or altered

- It was fascinating watching the muddy building site gradually transformed into a smart new housing estate.

to construct – to build

- It took five years to construct the Buri Khalifa skyscraper in Dubai.

to put up  – to build

- They are putting up an ugly office block on the site of the lovely old theatre.

Click this link to get a PDF download of this list of buildings vocabulary.

Ways to Improve Your Buildings Vocabulary

One of the best ways to improve your buildings vocabulary is through reading. Watching topic related YouTube videos and listening to podcasts is also hugely beneficial.

Here are some online resources I recommend.

Architecture Week -  excellent resource with articles on just about any topic you could think of

Dezeen Magazine  

The Independent - Architecture  

BBC News - Architecture

I love TED Talks. They are short videos with a powerful message and are generally very interesting. They’re ideal for improving your vocabulary and give valuable listening skills practise.

Search TED Talks - Architecture to help you improve your buildings vocabulary.

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IELTS Speaking part 2/ topic card: A building/structure with architectural interest

Are you still there, everyone? Thank you for being with me.

This post focuses on IELTS Speaking Part 2 or the topic card section. This is a common topic which is a building or structure of architectural interest . I’ve prepared a model answer for you. You can edit it according to your situation and choice. So, let’s have a look at the topic card.

Model answer:

Thanks a lot for the topic card. I’m going to describe a modern building that I enjoyed very much during my last trip to Dubai in the United Arab Emirates in 2015. It’s the tallest structure in the world now and is known as The Burj Khalifa.

With a total height of 829.8 m (2,722 ft), it is a mega-tall skyscraper. According to Wikipedia, it holds 17 different records in the history of construction. At present, it serves as a multipurpose building, including hotels, restaurants, shopping centers, residential suites, parks, and so on. This enormous creation was designed by one of the greatest architects of the world, Mr. Adrian D. Smith, an American architect.

This monstrous building should be preserved by us to remember what man can achieve if determination and leverage are at the center of human civilization. It reminds us of the fact that everything is possible for us. We should preserve this landmark for future inspiration.

Consisting of 163 floors, the Burj Khalifa, saw its inauguration of construction in 2004. The tower was constructed by Samsung C&T from South Korea, who also did work on the Petronas Twin Towers in Malaysia and Taipei 101 in Taiwan.  The exterior of this gigantic landmark was completed on October 1st, 2009. The opening of Burj Khalifa was held on 4 January 2010. The ceremony featured a display of 10,000 fireworks, light beams projected on and around the tower, and further sound, light, and water effects. The design of the building is derived from the Islamic architecture of the region, such as in the Great Mosque of Samarra.

The Burj Khalifa is highly compartmentalized. Pressurized, air-conditioned refuge floors are located approximately every 35 floors where people can shelter on their long walk down to safety in case of an emergency or fire. Special mixes of concrete are made to withstand the extreme pressures of the massive building weight; as is typical with reinforced concrete construction, each batch of concrete used was tested to ensure it could withstand certain pressures. The estimated total cost of the construction was about US $1.5 billion.

The most attractive places in this building are The Burj Khalifa Park, Observation Deck, and The Dubai Fountain.

Every year hundreds of thousands of tourists visit Dubai just to have a look and take a selfie with this marvelous structure.

That’s the end of this model answer.

Some other similar topic cards can be covered from this one, such as:

• A building you admire
• Your favorite landmark
• A skyscraper you saw
• A tall building you know about
• A landmark you admire
• A gigantic building you know about
• A man-made marvel etc.

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IELTS Speaking Part 1: General questions on Changes in life, Extra-curricular activities, Social issues; with model answers

This is the fourth set of general questions of IELTS Speaking Part 1 with example answers. If you wish to earn a good band score in the speaking module, you have to start with a great impression on the examiner’s mind and part 1 is the best place to do it. Practicing the general questions over […]

IELTS Speaking Part 2: Topic card; Describe a piece of information which you think is not correct; with discussion, model answer and Part 3 questions

In this post on IELTS Speaking Part 2, I’m going to discuss a topic card that has recently appeared in some IELTS tests around the world. Here we are going to describe a model answer for the topic ‘a piece of information which you think is not correct’. You will find a short discussion on […]

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IELTS Academic Reading Sample 33 - Architecture - Reaching For The Sky

Architecture - reaching for the sky.

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Buildings and Architecture: IELTS Speaking Part 3 Sample Answer

Updated On Dec 28, 2023

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In IELTS Speaking Part 3, you should focus on one idea only and then expand that idea into a long meaningful sentence using grammar patterns and vocabulary, which can help you get Band 8.0+ for IELTS Speaking.

Let’s practice it with some easy questions about a topic: buildings and architecture.

Speaking Part 3

1 do you think it is good to preserve old buildings.

It depends on whether the building is worth preserving. Historical monuments, for example, need to be saved because of their cultural significance. On the other hand, if a building is old, ugly and has no importance then I don’t see why we should preserve it.

2 Are buildings now better than those in the past? Why?

Yes and no. The facilities are better, rooms are often fully equipped with whatever you may need. And there are lifts and convenient stores so you don’t have travel much to get what you want. But these buildings are also bad for the environment; their construction and operation release a lot of waste and heat, which pollute the environment and contribute to global warming.

3 Do you think the government should invest money in preserving old buildings?

If the buildings are really important to the country, yes. If they are well preserved, it will help bring in income that would be spent on the maintenance.

• Worth preserving: to keep safe from injury , harm or destruction, protect. Eg: The tropical forests are worth preserving .
• Cultural significance: aesthetic, historic, scientific, social or spiritual value for past, present or future. Eg: The tribal dance  has some cultural significance
• Preserved: maintain in its original or existing state. Eg: All the ancient pieces are preserved in the museum.
• Fully equipped: properly equipped with a complete set of whatever equipment is needed. Eg: The office space is fully equipped.
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IELTS Essay Topic #10 Housing and Architecture

• Post category: Essay Topic

State or Council Housing

• In some countries the government provides state or council housing
• This helps people who cannot afford to buy their own house
• It can be argued that state housing creates dependence on the government
• People should rely on the government to look after them
• People have no incentive to earn money and buy their own home
• Council properties are often made with cheap, poor-quality materials

Old Buildings

• Historic buildings are part of a country’s heritage
• They should be protected
• Old buildings are often considered to be works of art
• They give character to cities and attract tourists
• They show us how people lived in the past
• We identify countries by architectural symbols like the pyramids in Egypt
• Governments should spend money on looking after historic buildings
• They need regular repairs and maintenance
• New buildings should be designed to complement them

Modern or Green Buildings

• Modern buildings should be designed to be environmentally friendly
• They should use less energy and produce less waste
• Modern insulation e. water, sound and heat covering can make houses more energy-efficient
• Solar and wind power can be used to generate electricity
• Rainwater and waste water can be recycled and used to flush
• Modern glass buildings take advantage of natural light

Climate and Architecture IELTS Listening Test

Questions 31-40 Complete the notes below. Write NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS for each answer.

CLIMATE AND ARCHITECTURE

• Cases and examples are from practice conducted in 31____________ as well as rural areas.

• The chemicals have devastating effects on the architecture. • The government try to reduce the negative effects. • Funds have been received from a 32____________ • 33____________ experience lower levels of acid in damaging pollutants. • In recent years, Alter Project focuses on the buildings made of 34____________

• One of the main sources of pollution is from the construction industry. • 35____________ is used to reduce pollution in Sky Tower. • Construction is affected by the increased 36____________ in winter. • Humidity affects the 37____________ buildings whose grain can be condensed by moisture from the air.

Building & Technology

• Ground conditions can be a problem when the density of the 38____________ is wrong. • Architects can now monitor the 39____________ of buildings. • The government should make 40____________ for the architects.

Also Check :  The Role of Sleep in Humans and Animals IELTS Listening

Climate and Architecture IELTS Listening Answers

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33 skyscrapers

34 stone (construction)

35 recycled glass

36 rainfall

39 movement

40 guidelines

Climate and Architecture IELTS Listening Transcript

Welcome class to your very first lecture in this series on Architecture conducted by myself, Dr Torben Dahl. Today we will be looking into the relationship between climate and architecture, where I will be giving you a critical overview of the main climate influences that shape the design of buildings. Throughout this lecture series we will be looking at the latest research into climatic design carried out by experts in the field in addition to case studies and examples drawn from modernist practice both in cities (Q31) and rural areas.

Now, acid rain is one of the climatic elements with the most devastating effects on our architecture. The chemicals in acid rain can cause paint to peel, corrosion of steel structures such as bridges, and erosion of stone statues. Since the 1970s, our government has been making great effort to reduce the release of these chemicals into the atmosphere with positive results. Private organisations have also been raising awareness and funds and recently received a huge donation from the bank (Q32) . It is interesting to look at the studies that have been carried out into the effects of acid rain at varying altitudes. Research has shown that there are lower levels of acid in the damaging pollutants at higher altitudes, meaning that skyscrapers (Q33) are much less vulnerable to the negative effects as they are exposed to acid rain with far lower levels of damaging pollutants.

Recently, the Alter Project was founded to carry out further research into acid rain. This project is directed towards studying the effects of acid rain on old, traditional buildings of stone (Q34) construction that are vulnerable to damage caused by acid rain. Masonry is particularly vulnerable as it is easily corroded and weakened by the acidic chemicals. It is imperative that we protect these buildings, as they are valuable examples of our history and culture.

Pollution is one of the main sources of concern in the present day. The construction industry contributes considerably as a source of pollution in its day-to-day processes of creating building materials such as concrete and glass, however, more new sustainable methods are being developed to counter this. A recent case study for this is Sky Tower, whose windows have been made from recycled glass (Q35) to prevent pollution from the glass-making process.

Water is the most problematic element to be considered in construction. It is imperative that construction elements such as the insulation are fitted into the building in dry weather to prevent it from getting wet. This makes winter an undesirable season for construction as the heavy rainfall (Q36) can have adverse effects on the building. Another climate type that has an enormous affect on buildings is humidity. Constructions made of steel and stone are largely unaffected by humidity, however, it can have a serious effect on wooden (Q37) constructions if the timber has not been correctly treated. Moisture from the air can condense in the grain of the wood, which then swells and shrinks in proportion to the magnitude of change in its moisture content. This variation in size can have disastrous consequences.

In areas of the world that are prone to earthquakes, certain design and environmental conditions are preferable for protecting buildings in the event of a tremor. Engineers have come up with numerous building procedures to help minimise shaking in buildings. For example, tall buildings have height restrictions and counterweights and multi-storey buildings have reinforced floors and walls. Ground conditions are a cause for worry in many constructions as often the soil (Q38) is of the wrong density to protect the foundations. Luckily technology has now been developed that can help to minimise damage by earthquakes. Seismic sensors can give prior warning when an earthquake is about to happen so that preparations can be made to protect both the people and the buildings from harm. The movement (Q39) of building structures can now also be measured and monitored over time by architects. It has been expressed by architects within the design community that it would be valuable to be given special courses for designing buildings within earthquake zones. Guidelines (Q40) are also expected to be produced by the government in the near future that will give architects a universal checklist to follow.

That wraps up the lecture for today. Please remember that attendance is mandatory… [fade out]

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Architecture (Part 3--IELTS Speaking)

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• Soft spot (idiom): a strong liking or affection for someone or something
• Historical architecture : the style and design of buildings from the past that are of historical significance
• Romantic touch : elements of design that evoke a sense of romance or sentimentality
• Intricate details : small and complex features or aspects of design
• Craftsmanship : skill and quality of workmanship in creating something
• Cookie-cutter (idiom): lacking uniqueness or originality, as if mass-produced with a cookie cutter
• Unique character : Distinctive and individualistic qualities or features
• Charm : the quality of being attractive or pleasing
• Creature comforts (collocation): items or amenities that provide comfort and convenience to people
• Modern architecture : the style and design of contemporary buildings
• Sleek lines : clean, smooth, and stylish lines in a design
• Innovative designs : original and creative designs that break from traditional forms
• Architecture enthusiast : someone who is passionate about architecture
• Fondness : a liking or affection for something
• Gothic architecture : the architectural style characterized by pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and ornate decoration, popular in Europe from the 12th to the 16th century
• Ornate embellishments : decorative elements added to a design, often intricate or highly detailed
• Ethereal atmosphere : a light, delicate, and otherworldly atmosphere
• Cannot be replicated (collocation): cannot be duplicated or imitated exactly the same way
• Have a thing for : To have a strong liking, attraction, or preference for someone or something
• Appreciates (verb): values or enjoys
• Well-designed (adjective): carefully planned and created with attention to detail
• Equally (adverb): in the same measure or degree
• First impression (collocation): the initial feelings or opinions people have about something
• Set the tone (idiom): establish the mood or atmosphere
• Comfortable (adjective): providing physical ease and relaxation
• Inviting (adjective): attractive and welcoming
• Chef's industry (collocation): the culinary profession or the food and beverage industry
• Visually (adverb): in terms of what can be seen or perceived by the eyes
• Aesthetically pleasing (collocation): visually attractive and appealing
• Human perspective (collocation): the view or opinion of a person
• Functional (adjective): designed to be practical and useful
• Creating a sense of place (collocation): establishing an identity or character for a particular location or environment
• Matters (verb): is important or significant
• Overall experience (collocation): the total impression or feeling one has of something
• Memorable impression (collocation): a strong and lasting impact on one's memory
• How has the architecture of buildings in your country changed in the last 10 years?
• Has globalisation impacted how buildings are designed in your country?
• How does the weather of a place affect the design of the buildings of the place? Or How does the weather of your country affect the design of the buildings of your country?
• Are buildings now better than those in the past? [Why/Why not?]
• Do you think it is important to protect and preserve historical buildings? [Why/Why not?]
• Should all old buildings be protected and preserved?
• What types of people visit historical buildings?
• How do people in your country feel about protecting historical buildings?
• How can a historical monument benefit the place where it is located?
• How can buildings be designed to be environmentally friendly?
• Why is it important for buildings to be environmentally friendly?
• How can governments encourage the design and construction of environmentally friendly buildings?
• Should it be compulsory for companies to have environmentally friendly buildings?

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IELTS Daily Essay Topic: Some people believe that school-children should be allowed to make decisions about school rules.

• Updated on  
• Apr 17, 2024

Brainstorming Ideas

Refer to the following brainstorming ideas to get a better understanding of the answer.

Pointers for teachers should be responsible for making rules:

• Often equipped to see long-term consequences.
• Makes sure that all of the rules are being consistently followed.

Pointers for students to be allowed to make decisions:

• They are in the best position to understand their needs.
• Can foster a sense of responsibility and ownership.

My opinion:

• Students should be considered while making rules.
• It will help ensure that they are practical and acceptable. 
• It will promote inclusive and conducive learning. 

Q. Some people believe that schoolchildren should be allowed to make decisions about the school rules, while others think that teachers should be responsible for making the rules. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Ans . The question of who should have the authority to establish rules in schools is a topic of debate. While some people argue that this is the responsibility of children, I firmly believe that students should be allowed to participate in the process. 

On the one hand, some people believe that the teachers, with their experience and expertise, should be in the authority of making rules. Teachers being adults are often equipped to see the long-term implications of the rules to ensure that they align with education objectives. For example, a teacher might enforce a rule that prohibits students from using mobile phones during classes to prevent distractions and enhance their learning process. Apart from this, teachers can ensure that all of the rules are being consistently followed across all classes and grades. For example, a school might have a uniform rule which should be followed by every student regardless of their grade and class. 

On the other hand, some people argue that students should have some say in the formulation of school rules. This perspective comes from the belief that students are in the best position to understand their needs and challenges. For example, the rule about the duration of breaks can be better decided by the student according to their attention span and need for relaxation. Moreover, involving students in the decision-making process can foster a sense of responsibility and ownership among them. For example, if students are involved in creating a rule about maintaining cleanliness in the school, they are more likely to understand its importance. In my opinion, the students should also be considered while making rules to ensure that they are practical and acceptable for all. It also promotes an inclusive and conducive learning environment. 

To conclude, while teachers undoubtedly have the experience and expertise to make effective rules, I believe that the students should be allowed to participate in this process as it not only ensures that the rules are practical and relevant but also contributes to the development of the students. 

Paraphrased Statement: The question of who should have the authority to establish rules in schools is a topic of debate. 

Thesis Statement: While some people argue that this is the responsibility of children, I firmly believe that students should be allowed to participate in the process. 

Body Paragraph 1-Topic Sentences: On the one hand, some people believe that teachers, with their experience and expertise, should be the authority to make rules. Teachers being adults are often equipped to see the long-term implications of the rules to ensure that they align with education objectives. 

Body Paragraph 1- Supporting Reasons and Explanations:   For example, a teacher might enforce a rule that prohibits students from using mobile phones during classes to prevent distractions and enhance their learning process. Apart from this, teachers can ensure that all of the rules are being consistently followed across all classes and grades. For example, a school might have a uniform rule which should be followed by every student regardless of their grade and class. 

Body Paragraph 2- Topic sentence: On the other hand, some people argue that students should have some say in the formulation of school rules. This perspective comes from the belief that students are in the best position to understand their needs and challenges. For example, the rule about the duration of breaks can be better decided by the student according to their attention span and need for relaxation.

Body Paragraph 2- Supporting Reasons and Explanations: Moreover, involving students in the decision-making process can foster a sense of responsibility and ownership among them. For example, if students are involved in creating a rule about maintaining cleanliness in the school, they are more likely to understand its importance. In my opinion, the students should also be considered while making rules to ensure that they are practical and acceptable for all. It also promotes an inclusive and conducive learning environment. 

Conclusion: To conclude, while teachers undoubtedly have the experience and expertise to make effective rules, I believe that the students should be allowed to participate in this process as it not only ensures that the rules are practical and relevant but also contributes to the development of the students. 

Vocabulary in Use

Linkers and connectors used.

Following are the linkers and connectors used:

• On the one hand
• For example
• Apart from this
• On the other hand
• In my opinion
• To conclude

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Purti is a CELTA, British Council, and IDP-certified language trainer. Having worked as a Study Abroad Test Prep Expert for the past 7 years, she has guided thousands of students towards their desirable scores in IELTS, TOEFL, GRE, GMAT and other language proficiency tests to study abroad. She is adept in molding learning strategies according to the needs of the learners and has built multiple courses at Leverage IELTS with result-oriented strategies. Proficient in test prep courses such as IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, and Duolingo, she loves to explore different classroom teaching methods, keeps continuously improving her own skills, and stays abreast with the latest teaching methodologies. She is a master trainer at Leverage Edu and aims to help thousands more through her expertise.

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