How to effectively describe a scene

In the CELPIP Speaking Test, describing a scene is a common task where you’ll be shown an image and asked to describe it in as much detail as possible. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create a vivid, well-organized response.

sample image

Step-by-Step Guide to Describing a Scene

1. Begin with an Overview

Start by providing a general statement about the scene to give your listener a quick idea of what it depicts.

Example: “This picture shows a lively park scene with people engaged in various activities.”

2. Describe the Foreground

Next, focus on elements closest to the viewer, describing them specifically.

Example: “In the foreground, there is a man sitting on a bench reading a newspaper. To his left, a woman is jogging on the path, and nearby, children are playing near a playground.”

3. Move to the Background

Describe elements farther from the viewer, giving a fuller picture of the scene.

Example: “In the background, several families are having picnics on the grass, and there are people walking dogs along the paths. There’s also a pond with ducks swimming, adding to the park’s peaceful atmosphere.”

4. Mention Details that Stand Out

Highlight any interesting details, such as clothing, interactions, or unique features in the scene.

Example: “One of the children is wearing a bright red shirt, which stands out against the greenery, and a woman with a yellow jacket is feeding the ducks at the pond.”

5. Conclude with Atmosphere or Weather

End with a statement on the mood or weather to make your description feel more engaging.

Example: “The weather looks sunny, and the trees and bushes add lush greenery, creating a vibrant and cheerful atmosphere.”

Vocabulary for Describing a Park Scene

Nature & Scenery

Foliage /ˈfoʊ.li.ɪdʒ/
Meaning: Leaves and greenery on trees or plants.
Example: “The park is full of lush foliage, adding vibrant greens to the scenery.”
Pond /pɒnd/
Meaning: A small body of still water, usually smaller than a lake.
Example: “In the background, there’s a pond where ducks are swimming peacefully.”
Overcast /ˈoʊ.vɚ.kæst/
Meaning: When the sky is covered with clouds, blocking direct sunlight.
Example: “The sky is slightly overcast, creating a soft and calm atmosphere.”
Meadow /ˈmɛd.oʊ/
Meaning: A field of grass and wildflowers.
Example: “To the left, there’s a meadow filled with colorful wildflowers.”

People & Actions

Jogging /ˈdʒɒɡ.ɪŋ/
Meaning: Running at a slow, steady pace for exercise.
Example: “A woman is jogging along the path, enjoying the fresh air.”
Lounging /ˈlaʊndʒ.ɪŋ/
Meaning: Relaxing in a comfortable, informal way.
Example: “Several people are lounging on picnic blankets, chatting and enjoying the weather.”
Gathering /ˈɡæð.ər.ɪŋ/
Meaning: A group of people meeting or spending time together.
Example: “A family is gathering near the playground, watching the children play.”
Sightseeing /ˈsaɪtˌsiː.ɪŋ/
Meaning: Visiting places of interest to see their features.
Example: “A group of tourists is sightseeing and taking photos of the park’s landscape.”

Animals and Wildlife

Perching /pɜːrtʃɪŋ/
Meaning: When a bird sits or rests on something, often elevated.
Example: “A bird is perching on a tree branch, looking down at the people below.”
Fluttering /ˈflʌtərɪŋ/
Meaning: Quick, light movements of wings, often by small birds or insects.
Example: “Butterflies are fluttering around the flower beds, adding a touch of color to the scene.”
Pecking /ˈpɛkɪŋ/
Meaning: When birds use their beaks to tap or eat small bits of food.
Example: “Several ducks are pecking at food by the pond’s edge.”

Objects & Details

Picnic Basket /ˈpɪk.nɪk ˈbæs.kɪt/
Meaning: A basket used to carry food and drinks for a picnic.
Example: “A family is setting up with a large picnic basket full of snacks and drinks.”
Swing /swɪŋ/
Meaning: A seat suspended by ropes or chains, often found in playgrounds.
Example: “The children are having fun on the swing set in the playground area.”
Thermos /ˈθɜːr.məs/
Meaning: An insulated container that keeps liquids hot or cold.
Example: “One person is pouring coffee from a thermos while enjoying a picnic.”
Gazebo /ɡəˈziː.boʊ/
Meaning: A small, open-sided shelter often found in parks or gardens.
Example: “In the distance, there’s a gazebo where a group is gathered for a small celebration.”

Positional & Spatial Language

In the foreground /ɪn ðə ˈfɔːrˌɡraʊnd/
Meaning: The part of a scene closest to the viewer.
Example: “In the foreground, there’s a man sitting on a bench reading a newspaper.”
To the left /tuː ðə lɛft/
Meaning: Refers to objects or people on the left side of the image.
Example: “To the left, a group of children is playing near the playground.”
Towards the back /təˈwɔrdz ðə bæk/
Meaning: Refers to items or people situated in the background.
Example: “Towards the back, families are having picnics on the grassy area.”
Alongside /əˈlɔːŋ.saɪd/
Meaning: Positioned next to or beside something else.
Example: “A path runs alongside the pond, where people are walking their dogs.”

Sample Scene Description Using These Vocabulary Words

“This picture shows a bustling park on a sunny day. In the foreground, a man is seated on a bench reading a newspaper, while a woman jogs along the path nearby. To the left, a group of children is playing on a swing set and a slide, and families are lounging on blankets for picnics. Towards the back, we see a tranquil pond with ducks pecking at food, and a few butterflies fluttering around the flower beds near the water. Tall trees and lush foliage frame the scene, giving the park a peaceful, natural atmosphere.”

Using descriptive vocabulary like these words can help you convey a complete and vivid picture in the CELPIP Speaking Test. For more tips, practice vocabulary, and guidance for other types of scenes, check out CELTESTPIP.com for comprehensive CELPIP preparation resources.