Overview
The lecture explains strategies for describing pictures during speaking exams, including useful language, how to handle uncertainty, and examples of picture descriptions.
General Strategies for Picture Description
- Do not be afraid to ask for clarification if you do not understand the instructions.
- Phrases to use: "Could you repeat?", "What do you mean?", "I'm sorry, I didn't understand that", "Should I start?"
- If you feel nervous, it is helpful to say so.
- You do not need to know all vocabulary; describe what you see with words you know.
- Use "in the picture" (not "on the picture") for correct prepositions.
Language and Structure Tips
- Start with a general overview: "In the picture, I can see..."
- Use present continuous tense to describe actions (e.g., "They are standing," "They are smiling").
- Focus on details: number of people, appearance, objects, background elements, and actions.
- Make guesses about the context or relationships using visible clues.
- Relate the picture to your own experiences if possible.
Example Description 1: Group of Office Workers
- Five adults in the picture: two men and three women, no children.
- People are standing and raising their hands, smiling, and wearing similar colors.
- One woman (on the right) is wearing glasses.
- There is a desk with notebooks, papers, and a plant, and a notice board in the background.
- The scene appears friendly and relaxed, suggesting they like their job or get along well.
- Clothing suggests it might be a casual Friday at work.
Example Description 2: Two Schoolboys
- Two boys (about six or seven years old) are sitting in the middle, smiling and reading a book.
- A globe is on the left, books on the right, suggesting a school setting.
- The boy on the left wears a red T-shirt, the boy on the right wears a black T-shirt.
- They seem to be happy and likely best friends.
Example Description 3: Couple in a Park
- A man and woman are in the foreground of a park, with trees and a bright sky indicating spring.
- The woman looks angry and does not seem to enjoy being in the park.
- The man appears to be following her, possibly apologizing after an argument.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Present continuous — tense used for actions happening now (e.g., "They are standing").
- Foreground — the part of a picture closest to the viewer.
- Background — the part of a picture farthest from the viewer.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Practice describing pictures using the strategies and language presented.
- Use the suggested phrases when unsure or nervous during speaking exams.