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.
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.
