IELTS Speaking Mock Test – Architecture Theme
Part 1 – Introduction & Interview
(4–5 minutes)
Examiner: Good afternoon. My name is [Examiner’s Name]. Can you tell me your full name, please?
Candidate: My name is [Your Name].
Examiner: Do you work or are you a student?
Candidate: I’m currently a student, and I’m focusing on [your field of study].
Examiner: Let’s talk about buildings. Do you live in a house or an apartment?
Candidate: I live in a house. It’s not very large, but it’s conveniently located, and I really enjoy the sense of privacy it offers.
Examiner: What kind of buildings are common in your hometown?
Candidate: In my hometown, you’ll find a mixture. The city center has many modern high-rise apartments, but on the outskirts, there are still traditional-style houses with tiled roofs and courtyards.
Part 2 – Cue Card
(3–4 minutes: 1 min prep + 2 min speaking)
Examiner: Now, I’d like you to talk for 1–2 minutes. Here is your topic:
👉 Describe a modern building you find interesting.
Part 3 – Discussion
(4–5 minutes)
Examiner: What are the differences between modern buildings and traditional buildings?
Candidate: Traditional buildings often emphasize aesthetic details and cultural symbolism. For example, many temples have intricate carvings and ornate roofs that reflect spiritual beliefs. In contrast, modern buildings are more about functionality, efficiency, and sustainability, often using glass and steel with a minimalist style. So while traditional buildings connect us to our heritage, modern ones solve the needs of today’s society.
Examiner: Do you think people prefer modern houses or traditional houses nowadays?
Candidate: Most people prefer modern houses, mainly because they suit contemporary lifestyles. Open-plan spaces, large windows, and smart home systems are very attractive. However, some people still favor traditional houses, as they feel warmer and more characterful. I think it depends on someone’s age, values, and lifestyle.
Examiner: Should governments preserve old buildings?
Candidate: Absolutely. Old buildings are tangible links to history and form part of a nation’s cultural identity. Preserving them allows future generations to understand their heritage and also attracts tourists, which supports the economy. Although maintenance can be expensive, the cultural and social value far outweighs the costs.
Examiner: How do you think architecture will change in the future?
Candidate: I believe it will become far more sustainable and technology-driven. Architects are already experimenting with eco-friendly materials and green spaces. In addition, innovations like AI and 3D printing could make construction faster and more affordable. In short, the architecture of the future will balance environmental responsibility with cutting-edge design.
🗣️ IELTS Speaking Mock Test – Traditional Architecture Theme
Part 1 – Introduction & Interview
(4–5 minutes)
Examiner: Good afternoon. Can you tell me your full name, please?
Candidate: My name is [Your Name].
Examiner: Do you live in a house or an apartment?
Candidate: I live in a house. It’s not particularly large, but it’s comfortable and located in a convenient neighborhood.
Examiner: Are there many traditional buildings in your hometown?
Candidate: Yes, there are. In the old quarter, you can still see traditional houses with tiled roofs and wooden balconies, although many have now been replaced by more modern structures.
Examiner: Do you like visiting historical sites?
Candidate: Yes, very much. I enjoy the sense of history and the intricate craftsmanship that you usually find in traditional buildings.
Part 2 – Cue Card
(3–4 minutes: 1 min prep + 2 min speaking)
Examiner: Now, I’d like you to talk for 1–2 minutes. Here is your topic:
👉 Describe a traditional building you find interesting.
🏆 Model Answer
One traditional building that I find truly fascinating is the Wooden Church in Kon Tum, Vietnam. It was built more than a century ago by French missionaries, but what makes it special is that it’s entirely constructed from wood, without using a single nail.
The church has a very distinctive design, blending Gothic-style architecture with elements of local culture. For example, the pointed arches and stained-glass windows are typically European, but the carvings and decorations reflect the traditions of ethnic minorities in the Central Highlands.
What I really admire is its intricate craftsmanship. Every beam and joint was carefully fitted together by hand, which shows the incredible skill of the builders. The atmosphere inside is very serene and timeless, making it not only a place of worship but also a symbol of cultural harmony.
I find this building interesting because it represents a fusion of East and West and reminds us that architecture is not just about function, but also about identity and heritage.
Part 3 – Discussion
(4–5 minutes)
Examiner: What are the main differences between traditional buildings and modern buildings?
Candidate: Traditional buildings often reflect local culture and craftsmanship. They use natural materials such as wood, stone, or clay, and include decorative details that carry symbolic meaning. Modern buildings, on the other hand, tend to focus more on practicality, durability, and technology, often using glass and steel. So the main difference lies in whether the priority is cultural expression or functional efficiency.
Examiner: Why do you think traditional buildings are important to society?
Candidate: They are important because they connect us to our roots and help us understand how people lived in the past. Traditional buildings also give cities a unique character. Without them, everywhere would look the same. So I’d say they preserve both cultural identity and diversity.
Examiner: Should governments invest money in preserving old buildings or building new ones?
Candidate: Ideally, they should do both. Preserving old buildings protects heritage and history, while constructing new ones meets the needs of a growing population. If I had to prioritize, I’d say old buildings should not be neglected, because once they are gone, they can never be replaced. New buildings, by contrast, can always be designed and rebuilt.
Examiner: Do you think traditional architecture has influenced modern design?
Candidate: Definitely. Many modern architects take inspiration from traditional forms. For example, the use of natural ventilation and courtyards in old houses has influenced today’s eco-friendly designs. Also, cultural motifs are often reinterpreted in a modern style. So in a way, traditional architecture continues to shape the future.
🗣️ IELTS Speaking Mock Test – Modern vs Traditional Buildings
Part 1 – Introduction & Interview
(4–5 minutes)
Examiner: Do you live in a house or an apartment?
Candidate: I live in a house. It’s not very big, but it’s comfortable and well-located, so I’m quite happy living there.
Examiner: What types of buildings are most common in your hometown?
Candidate: In the city center, you’ll mostly see modern high-rise apartments and office buildings, but if you go to the older districts, you can still find traditional houses with tiled roofs and narrow courtyards.
Examiner: Have you ever visited a famous building?
Candidate: Yes, I once visited the Independence Palace in Ho Chi Minh City. It’s not only architecturally impressive but also historically important, so I found it really memorable.
Part 2 – Cue Card
(3–4 minutes: 1 min prep + 2 min speaking)
Examiner: Now, I’d like you to talk for 1–2 minutes. Here is your topic:
👉 Describe a building (modern or traditional) that you find interesting.
You should say:
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Where it is
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What it looks like
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What it is used for
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And explain why you find it interesting
🏆 Model Answer (Traditional Example)
One traditional building that really impressed me is the Wooden Church in Kon Tum, Vietnam. It was built entirely from wood more than a century ago, without a single nail.
The church combines Gothic-style arches with local cultural carvings, making it a unique blend of European and Vietnamese design. Inside, the atmosphere is peaceful and spiritual.
I find this building interesting because it represents both cultural identity and history. It reminds us that traditional craftsmanship is just as valuable as modern technology.
Part 3 – Discussion
(4–5 minutes)
Examiner: What are the main differences between modern buildings and traditional buildings?
Candidate: Traditional buildings usually emphasize culture, history, and craftsmanship. They often include intricate details and are built with natural materials like wood or stone. Modern buildings, on the other hand, prioritize efficiency, sustainability, and functionality, using materials like glass and steel.
Examiner: Which type of building do people prefer nowadays?
Candidate: I think most people prefer modern buildings for daily life because they offer more convenience, such as elevators, open-plan spaces, and smart technologies. But when it comes to tourism or cultural pride, people still value traditional buildings, as they provide a strong sense of identity.
Examiner: Do you think cities should have a balance of both modern and traditional architecture?
Candidate: Yes, definitely. A city that only has skyscrapers might look efficient but soulless. Traditional buildings add character and uniqueness, while modern ones meet practical needs. A balance makes cities both functional and culturally rich.
Examiner: How might architecture change in the future?
Candidate: I believe architecture will focus even more on eco-friendly design. For example, more buildings may include green roofs, solar panels, and recycled materials. Technology like 3D printing and AI will also make construction faster and cheaper. So future buildings will probably combine innovation with sustainability.
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Band 6–7 version → simpler grammar & vocabulary, clear but less variety.
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Band 8–9 version → more advanced vocabulary, flexible grammar, deeper ideas.
🎤 IELTS Speaking – Modern vs Traditional Buildings
Part 2 – Cue Card
👉 Describe a building (modern or traditional) that you find interesting.
🟢 Band 6–7 Answer (Simpler)
I want to talk about the Wooden Church in Kon Tum, Vietnam. It was built a long time ago, and what makes it special is that it is made completely from wood.
The design is quite beautiful. From the outside, you can see wooden walls, a tall roof, and some simple decorations. Inside, it feels very peaceful and quiet.
This church is used for religious activities, but also many tourists come to visit it. I find it interesting because it is very different from modern buildings, and it shows the history and culture of my country.
🟣 Band 8–9 Answer (Advanced)
A traditional building that fascinates me is the Wooden Church in Kon Tum, Vietnam, which was constructed more than a century ago without using a single nail.
Its design is unique because it combines Gothic-style arches and stained-glass windows with local cultural carvings. Every joint was fitted together by hand, which highlights the intricate craftsmanship of the builders.
Today, the church functions as both a religious site and a cultural landmark. What I find most interesting is how it represents a fusion of East and West, reminding us that architecture is not only about function but also about heritage and identity.
Part 3 – Discussion
Q1. What are the main differences between modern and traditional buildings?
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Band 6–7:
Traditional buildings are usually made with wood, stone, or other natural materials. They often look more beautiful because of the designs. Modern buildings are bigger, taller, and made of glass or steel. They are more comfortable but sometimes don’t have much culture. -
Band 8–9:
Traditional buildings emphasize cultural expression and craftsmanship, often using natural materials like wood and stone with symbolic decorations. In contrast, modern buildings focus on efficiency, sustainability, and technology, relying on materials such as glass and steel. So the difference lies in whether the priority is heritage or practicality.
Q2. Which type do people prefer nowadays?
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Band 6–7:
I think people like modern buildings more because they are convenient. For example, apartments have elevators and air conditioning. But traditional buildings are still popular for tourism. -
Band 8–9:
For daily life, most people prefer modern buildings because they provide comfort and convenience. However, traditional buildings remain highly valued as cultural icons. People may not want to live in them, but they still appreciate them for tourism, education, and national pride.
Q3. Should cities have both modern and traditional architecture?
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Band 6–7:
Yes, I think so. If there are only modern buildings, the city looks boring. Traditional buildings make the city more beautiful and interesting. -
Band 8–9:
Absolutely. Modern architecture ensures that cities are functional and sustainable, while traditional architecture adds character and uniqueness. A balanced mix allows a city to be both practical and culturally rich, which is essential for its identity.
Q4. How will architecture change in the future?
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Band 6–7:
I think buildings will be taller and more modern. Maybe people will use new technology like solar panels. -
Band 8–9:
Architecture will likely become more eco-friendly and technology-driven. Features such as green roofs, renewable energy systems, and smart home technology will be common. In addition, advances like 3D printing may revolutionize how quickly and cheaply buildings can be constructed.
✅ As you can see:
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Band 6–7 → short, clear answers, basic connectors, limited vocabulary.
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Band 8–9 → extended answers, advanced vocab, complex grammar, deeper ideas.