Cities: questions and Band 8 answers
The examiner asks three to five short questions on two or three everyday topics in the first four to five minutes. These are the 8 questions about cities in the BandLadder test bank, with sample answers for the most frequent ones. Aim for two or three sentences each: answer, reason, one detail.
Sample answers
Do you like the city you are living in now?
I am actually quite fond of my current city because it offers a perfect blend of modern amenities and green spaces. Having a sprawling park within walking distance of my flat makes the urban environment feel much more liveable and less claustrophobic than other places I have stayed.
What kinds of cities do you like?
Personally, I gravitate towards historic cities that have preserved their traditional architecture while embracing contemporary life. There is something truly captivating about walking through cobbled streets that are lined with centuries-old buildings, yet still bustling with trendy cafes and vibrant street markets.
Which city have you been to recently?
Well, I spent last weekend exploring Edinburgh, which left a lasting impression on me. The dramatic skyline dominated by the castle was breathtaking, and I really enjoyed getting lost in the narrow, winding closes of the Old Town, which felt like stepping back in time.
Which city do you want to go to?
Tokyo is definitely at the top of my travel bucket list right now. I am fascinated by the contrast between its hyper-modern technology, the neon-lit skyscrapers, and the serene, ancient temples hidden away in quiet corners of the metropolis.
How well do you know the capital city of your country?
I am quite familiar with London, having visited several times for both business and leisure. While I know my way around the main tourist hubs like Westminster, I still find it challenging to navigate the labyrinthine network of backstreets in some of the more residential boroughs.
Do you think cities are exciting places to live?
They certainly are, primarily because there is a constant pulse of energy and endless opportunities for socialising. You are never short of things to do, whether it is visiting a late-night art gallery or simply finding a hidden gem of a restaurant in the city centre.
Details are invented. Use the shape, not the sentences: examiners mark memorised answers down.
More cities questions to practise
- Why do some people dislike living in a city?
- If you could visit any city in the world, where would you go?
Useful vocabulary
- claustrophobic
- feeling cramped and uncomfortable in a small space
- gravitate towards
- to be naturally attracted to a specific thing
- captivating
- capable of attracting and holding your full interest
- hyper-modern
- extremely advanced in terms of technology and style
- labyrinthine
- complicated and confusing like a complex maze structure
- hidden gem
- a wonderful place that is not widely known
- Use descriptive adjectives to make your answers more vivid and less repetitive.
- Try to include a personal anecdote or specific detail to sound more authentic.
Answer out loud and get a band
The AI examiner asks Part 1 questions like these, listens, and scores fluency, vocabulary, grammar and pronunciation, with the words that cost you.
Practise Part 1 with the AI examinerOn your phone? Get the BandLadder app.