Question Type 1: Basic Description Questions

Place 1: An important building

Describe an important building in your city.

You should say:

Where the building is located

What it looks like

What it is used for

How often you visit this place.

Suggestion

It is quite difficult to describe traditional Chinese architecture in English, so it is best to avoid this area. An easy building to describe is a multi-functional building, e.g. a shopping and entertainment centre.

Uncommon Vocabulary

prominent well-known landmark

See also Part One Topic 42: Buildings.

Grammar Point

Use past tenses:

It was originally constructed way back in 1890. Years ago it was primarily used as a government office. Now its main function is… I used to go there quite a lot when I was a kid.

Place 2: A historical building / place

Describe a historical building you have visited.

You should say:

Where the building is located

What it looks like

What it is used for

Whether this building is popular with tourists.

(Exactly the same as Place 1: An important building.)