IELTS VocabMaster

Describe a building you enjoy visiting (e.g. a library, a shopping mall, etc.)

Describe a building you enjoy visiting (e.g. a library, a shopping mall, etc.) You should say: - what the building is - where it is - how often you go there - and explain why you enjoy visiting it

Part 2 model answer

Well, the building I really enjoy visiting is the Bishwo Shahitto Kendro, which is a large public library and cultural centre in Banglamotor, Dhaka. It's not a very modern or fancy building from the outside, but inside, it has a really calm and welcoming atmosphere.

I usually go there once or twice a month, mostly on Fridays or Saturdays when I have some free time. The building has several floors, with a huge collection of books in both Bangla and English, from novels and poetry to history and science. There's also a quiet reading room where people of all ages sit and read for hours, and on some days they organise book discussions and cultural programmes.

Whenever I visit, I usually spend the first hour just browsing the shelves, because I love discovering random books I wouldn't normally choose. Then I pick one or two and sit by the window to read. Recently, I've been reading English short stories there, which also helps me improve my vocabulary for IELTS.

The main reason I enjoy going there is the peaceful environment. Dhaka is such a noisy and crowded city, so finding a quiet place like this feels like a real escape. Since I do almost everything on my phone, it's also a nice break from screens. I genuinely feel more focused and relaxed there. On top of that, I often meet like-minded people who love reading, so it's not just a library for me, but also a place where I feel inspired.

Part 3 discussion

Do you think libraries are still important in the digital age?

Yes, I do. Although people can find information online, libraries offer free access to books for those who can't afford them. They also provide a quiet space to study, which many students don't have at home. Plus, reading a physical book is a different experience from reading on a screen.

Why do people like going to shopping malls?

Malls offer everything under one roof, like shops, restaurants, and cinemas, so they're very convenient. In hot countries like Bangladesh, the air-conditioning is also a big attraction. For many young people, malls have become a place to hang out with friends rather than just shop.

What makes a building attractive?

I think a good design that balances beauty and function is the key. Natural light, open spaces, and some greenery make a building feel pleasant. It should also reflect local culture to some extent. For example, buildings that use traditional terracotta designs look really unique in Bangladesh.

Should old buildings be preserved or replaced with new ones?

I believe historical buildings should be preserved because they represent our history and identity. Once they're demolished, we can never get them back. However, old buildings that are unsafe or have no historical value can be replaced to make room for modern infrastructure.

How will public buildings change in the future?

I think they'll become smarter and more eco-friendly. Many buildings will probably use solar power, automatic lighting, and digital systems to save energy. Public spaces may also become more flexible, so the same building can be used for different purposes, like studying, working, and community events.