Target: 6.0-6.5

Architecture & Urban Spaces

• Set strict prep and speaking timers to train fast idea generation under real exam conditions.

• Have students warm up with the collocations and sentence frames before attempting the speaking tasks.

• Complete the vocabulary check and read the pattern cards out loud before recording your voice.

• Record your answers without stopping to self-correct, then compare your flow with the model responses.

Module 1 Warm Up & Build Up

____ a. arch ____ b. skyline ____ c. courtyard ____ d. fountain

____ a. pillar ____ b. monument ____ c. dome ____ d. arch

____ a. facade ____ b. fountain ____ c. skyline ____ d. pillar

____ a. demolish ____ b. inhabit ____ c. neglect ____ d. restore

____ a. cramped ____ b. spacious ____ c. derelict ____ d. miniature

____Knock it down completely____Striking outline of tall buildings____Water sprays up in a shared space____Repair it to look as it once did____Curved structure that holds weight____Roomy open space with walls around it

____Knock it down completely____Striking outline of tall buildings____Water sprays up in a shared space____Repair it to look as it once did____Curved structure that holds weight____Roomy open space with walls around it

____Knock it down completely____Striking outline of tall buildings____Water sprays up in a shared space____Repair it to look as it once did____Curved structure that holds weight____Roomy open space with walls around it

____Knock it down completely____Striking outline of tall buildings____Water sprays up in a shared space____Repair it to look as it once did____Curved structure that holds weight____Roomy open space with walls around it

____Knock it down completely____Striking outline of tall buildings____Water sprays up in a shared space____Repair it to look as it once did____Curved structure that holds weight____Roomy open space with walls around it

____Knock it down completely____Striking outline of tall buildings____Water sprays up in a shared space____Repair it to look as it once did____Curved structure that holds weight____Roomy open space with walls around it

Pattern A • Two Things Change Together

"The more open the square is, the less crowded it feels."

Great for showing cause and effect when describing city comfort.

Pattern B • Saying Two Things Are Equal

"Walking through the old arcade is as relaxing as sitting in a quiet garden."

Perfect for describing your mood and sensory experience.

Pattern C • Old and New

"While steel skyscrapers look futuristic, older brick facades have way more character."

Shows balance when comparing old vs. new architecture.

Pattern D • Your Own View

"To be perfectly honest, what matters most to me is whether a street has shade."

A friendly, authentic starter that replaces robotic templates.

Trivia 1 Design Competition Submissions

____ 381 ____ 681 ____ 981

Trivia 2 Grand Opening

____ 1957 ____ 1977 ____ 1997

Module 2 Speaking Cue Card

📌 Official Task Card

Preparation: 1 Minute Target Speaking Time: 90 - 120 Seconds

AI Assessment Criteria:

🎙️ Record Your Part 2 Speech

Timed Round

"Well, honestly, the public place I really love visiting is the big square near my university, which is right in the middle of my city. It's a really spacious public square with wide stone walkways and flower beds along the sides. On one end, there's an old town hall with a row of arches, while modern towers frame the rest of the skyline.

I usually head there on weekend evenings with my close friends. It's such a lively spot where you see families strolling, street performers playing acoustic guitar, and kids skateboarding around. For me, going there is a great chance to catch my breath after an exhausting week at university. It's just a short walk from my favourite milk tea shop, so we often grab drinks and sit by the fountain. It's important to local people because living in a bustling city can feel suffocating at times, and this open space allows everyone to breathe in some fresh air and connect with each other."

Module 3 Deep Discussion

1

Should old buildings always be kept, or is it sometimes better to replace them with new ones?

[Bài tập luyện nói]

"Well, to be fair, I think it really depends on the building's condition. If an old structure has genuine historical value, we should definitely restore the facade and preserve it for future generations, because it gives the city its unique soul. On the other hand, if a place has become a derelict building that poses a real hazard to pedestrians, it makes much more sense to knock it down. Replacing it with energy-efficient housing or a public park just serves the community way better."

2

Why do some cities have far more public space than others?

[Bài tập luyện nói]

"I'd say it mainly comes down to urban planning and commercial pressure. Some historic cities were intentionally designed with a spacious public square and open gardens right in the town centre. In contrast, modern boomtowns often prioritize commercial profits, so developers cram every corner with high-rise offices and shopping malls. Plus, when land values skyrocket, local councils face immense pressure to sell off empty plots rather than set aside green areas for community recreation. It really shapes how liveable a city feels."

3

Can one famous building help to make a city popular with visitors?

[Bài tập luyện nói]

"Without a doubt, yes. A single iconic structure can literally put a city on the map. Think of a city with one famous bridge or museum - that kind of landmark instantly gives travelers a visual reason to visit. When a building creates an iconic skyline, pictures get shared across social media again and again. That exposure brings in lots of tourists, which gives a real boost to the local economy, supporting small hotels, cafes, and independent shops. Honestly, I think it helps small businesses a lot."

4

How could public spaces be made more welcoming for older people?

[Bài tập luyện nói]

"Honestly, practical improvements make the biggest difference. First off, city planners should install far more shaded benches with backrests so senior citizens can sit comfortably and take a breather whenever they need to. Having wide, step-free walkways is also critical so they can stroll without fear of tripping over uneven paving. Finally, adding sheltered pavilions and clean, accessible restrooms creates an age-friendly environment where elderly people feel safe spending long afternoons socializing outdoors. It also helps if the place feels calm and friendly, because older people often just want somewhere quiet to chat."