House or Apartment? Complete Cue Card + Band 9 Sample
Master a high‑scoring response with Leeds Academy – Malabar’s trusted IELTS coaching centre in Perinthalmanna, Malappuram. Use this page to practice, memorize key phrases, and polish fluency.
Cue Card: Describe a house or an apartment you would like to live in
You should say:
- Where it would be
- What it would look like (inside & outside)
- What facilities/amenities it would have
- And explain why you would like to live there
Preparation notes (1 minute): jot down Location — Design — Features — Reasons — Feeling.
Band 9 Model Answer (≈ 2 minutes)
If money and logistics weren’t a constraint, I would love to live in a light‑filled apartment on the tenth floor of a modern, eco‑friendly high‑rise, right in the heart of a well‑connected city. Ideally, it would overlook a quiet tree‑lined street, so I could enjoy the convenience of urban living without the constant noise that usually comes with it.
In terms of layout, I picture an open‑plan living area with floor‑to‑ceiling windows, a compact but well‑equipped kitchen, and a small study nook where I could work undisturbed. I’d definitely want a balcony large enough for a table, a couple of chairs, and some potted herbs. Subtle, neutral colours, good insulation, and cross‑ventilation would keep the space comfortable throughout the year.
As for amenities, the building would have a reliable security system, energy‑efficient elevators, a shared gym, and perhaps a rooftop garden where residents could unwind or read a book at sunset. Crucially, it should be within walking distance of public transport and everyday essentials like a supermarket and a pharmacy, which would simplify my routine and reduce my commute.
I prefer this type of apartment to a detached house because it strikes a balance between privacy and practicality. It’s easier to maintain, more sustainable, and still feels cosy and personal. Overall, it would give me the freedom to focus on work and hobbies while enjoying a comfortable, thoughtfully designed living space.
High‑Level Vocabulary & Collocations
- eco‑friendly high‑rise
- light‑filled / floor‑to‑ceiling windows
- open‑plan layout / study nook
- cross‑ventilation / insulation
- low‑maintenance living
- neighbourhood amenities
- reliable security system
- energy‑efficient elevators
- rooftop garden / balcony space
- reduce my commute
Useful openers: “If I had the choice…”, “What appeals to me most is…”, “Another factor worth mentioning is…”, “On balance, I’d prefer…”
Examiner‑Style Tips from Leeds Academy
- Answer the cue, not a different topic. Keep looping back to the question with phrases like “I’d like this apartment because…”
- Signpost ideas. Use sequencing: firstly, secondly, finally to maintain coherence.
- Stretch ideas with reasons & examples. After each detail, add because / which means / so that.
- Show range. Mix simple and complex sentences; add a conditional or a relative clause naturally.
- Sound natural. Contractions and a relaxed tone are fine—clarity matters more than formality.
Part 3 Follow‑up Questions (with sample ideas)
1) Do people in your country prefer houses or apartments?
Idea: Younger professionals choose apartments for convenience and affordability; families may prefer houses for space and privacy. Trends vary by city size and income.
2) What are the disadvantages of living in high‑rise buildings?
Idea: Dependence on elevators, potential noise, smaller private outdoor areas; however, modern designs mitigate many issues.
3) How does housing affect quality of life?
Idea: Commute time, natural light, safety, and community facilities strongly influence wellbeing and productivity.
4) Should governments support affordable housing?
Idea: Yes—social stability and economic mobility; discuss mixed‑income communities and better public transport links.
FAQs: IELTS Speaking (Leeds Academy – Perinthalmanna)
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