IELTS Speaking Part 2

Describe a new law you would like to introduce in your country

Describe a new law you would like to introduce in your country

You should say:

One minute to prepare, then speak for one to two minutes.

How to plan it in one minute

  1. Jot down keywords for each bullet point to ensure you cover all requirements.
  2. Think of a specific country or city context to make your answer more authentic.
  3. Use a logical sequence: define the law, its impact, and your personal emotional connection.

Band 8 model answer

If I were granted the authority to implement a new piece of legislation, I would introduce a mandatory nationwide initiative requiring all urban residential developments to incorporate rooftop gardens and vertical greenery. The current concrete jungle in cities like London is stifling, and this law would necessitate that developers dedicate at least thirty per cent of their roof space to vegetation or communal allotments. This shift would fundamentally transform our skyline, reducing the urban heat island effect while simultaneously providing citizens with much-needed green sanctuaries amidst the grey sprawl. I suspect this policy would be incredibly popular with the younger generation and environmentalists, though property developers might initially push back due to the increased construction costs. My inspiration for this came during a trip to Singapore, where I witnessed how seamlessly high-rise architecture can coexist with lush, vibrant foliage. It was a sensory revelation; the air felt crisper and the atmosphere significantly less oppressive than in my own neighbourhood. I feel truly passionate about this proposal because it addresses the mental health crisis exacerbated by our disconnected city lives. By integrating nature into our daily architecture, we could foster a more harmonious environment that encourages physical activity and social interaction among neighbours. Ultimately, I believe this law would represent a pragmatic step towards sustainable urban living, ensuring that our future cities are not just efficient hubs of commerce, but restorative spaces that actively improve the quality of life for every resident, regardless of their postcode.

245 words, about two minutes at a natural pace. Details are invented; use your own.

Vocabulary from the answer

legislation
a set of laws proposed by a government
concrete jungle
an area in a city with many buildings
urban heat island
city areas that are warmer than surrounding countryside
allotments
small plots of land for growing vegetables
sprawl
the uncontrolled expansion of a city area
foliage
the leaves and branches of many plants
exacerbated
made a problem or situation much worse
pragmatic
dealing with problems in a sensible practical way

Part 3 questions that follow this card

Answer each in three to five sentences: position, reason, example, limit. See the Part 3 guide.

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Frequently asked questions

How should I start the cue card "Describe a new law you would like to introduce in your country"?

Jot down keywords for each bullet point to ensure you cover all requirements.

How long should my answer be?

Speak for the full two minutes, about 220 to 280 words at a natural pace. The examiner will stop you at two minutes, which is a good sign, not a problem.

Can I use this model answer in the exam?

Use its structure and vocabulary, not its sentences. Examiners recognise memorised answers and mark fluency down; a shorter answer from your own memory scores higher than a recited one.

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