✦ IELTS Topic: Mountains, Hills & Valleys – 10 Useful Phrases

1. Snow-capped peaks
   e.g., The region is famous for its snow-capped peaks, especially in winter.

2. Rolling hills
   e.g., The landscape was filled with rolling hills stretching for miles.

3. Towering mountains
   e.g., Towering mountains surrounded the village and made it feel isolated.

4. Steep slopes
   e.g., We climbed the steep slopes of the hill to get a better view.

5. Winding mountain path
   e.g., The hiking trail followed a winding mountain path up to the summit.

6. Breathtaking views
   e.g., The top of the hill offered breathtaking views of the entire valley.

7. Lush valley
   e.g., A lush valley lay below us, filled with green farmland and rivers.

8. Rugged terrain
   e.g., The area was hard to cross because of the rugged terrain and rocks.

9. Mountain range
   e.g., The Himalayas are the highest mountain range in the world.

10. Remote hillside village
    e.g., We visited a remote hillside village where people still lived a traditional life.

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✦ IELTS Speaking Practice Test – Mountains, Hills & Valleys

Part 1: Introduction & Interview

1. Do you like mountains or prefer the beach?

2. Have you ever climbed a mountain or hill?

3. Are there any famous mountains or valleys in your country?

4. Would you like to live in a mountainous area?

5. What kind of activities do people do in hilly regions?

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Part 2: Cue Card

Describe a mountain, hill, or valley you have visited.
You should say:

• where it is

• what it looks like

• what you did there
  and explain why you liked it.

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✦ Sample Answers Using the Phrases

Part 1 Answers

1. I prefer mountains—I love breathtaking views and being in nature.
2. Yes, I’ve hiked up rolling hills near my home. It’s great exercise.
3. In my country, there’s a famous mountain range called the Tatras.
4. I’d love to live in a remote hillside village, away from city noise.
5. Hiking, cycling, and camping are common in areas with steep slopes and rugged terrain.

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Part 2 Sample Answer

One memorable trip I had was to the Scottish Highlands. It’s full of towering mountains and lush valleys, and the landscape is incredibly dramatic.

We followed a winding mountain path up Ben Nevis, which is the highest mountain in the UK. The hike was difficult, especially with the steep slopes, but reaching the summit was so rewarding.

At the top, we were treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks and green countryside below.

It was one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen, and I’d love to return one day.

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✦ Comprehension Test: Mountains, Hills & Valleys

1. "The region is famous for its snow-capped peaks, especially in winter."
Q: What do snow-capped peaks look like?

2. "The landscape was filled with rolling hills stretching for miles."
Q: How would you describe rolling hills?

3. "Towering mountains surrounded the village and made it feel isolated."
Q: How did the mountains affect the village?

4. "We climbed the steep slopes of the hill to get a better view."
Q: What challenge did the speakers face?

5. "The hiking trail followed a winding mountain path up to the summit."
Q: What was the path like?

6. "The top of the hill offered breathtaking views of the entire valley."
Q: What could be seen from the top?

7. "A lush valley lay below us, filled with green farmland and rivers."
Q: What does 'lush valley' suggest?

8. "The area was hard to cross because of the rugged terrain and rocks."
Q: Why was the terrain difficult?

9. "The Himalayas are the highest mountain range in the world."
Q: What is special about the Himalayas?

10. "We visited a remote hillside village where people still lived a traditional life."
Q: What is unique about the village?

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✦ Answer Key

1. Mountains with snow on top.

2. Gentle, rounded hills.

3. They made the village feel cut off or secluded.

4. A steep climb or uphill walk.

5. Curving and not straight.

6. Amazing scenery of the valley.

7. Fertile, green, and full of life.

8. It was uneven and full of obstacles.

9. They are the tallest in the world.

10. It’s isolated and people maintain old customs.

 

🐸 The Wind in the Willows – Chapter 2: Toad's Big Idea

One bright morning, Rat invited Mole to visit Toad Hall.

“Toad wants to see us,” Rat said. “He has a new idea.”

They packed a lunch and walked through the woods. Toad Hall was a grand, old house with large windows and long gardens.

Toad greeted them with open arms.

“My dear friends!” he said. “I’ve discovered something amazing.”

Rat rolled his eyes. “Another hobby?”

“Better than all the others,” Toad smiled. “I’ve given up boats and singing. I’m now… a traveler!”

“A traveler?” Mole asked.

“Yes!” Toad said. “I’ve bought a beautiful horse and a cart. We will ride in it across the country—like true adventurers!”

Toad led them outside. There stood a small green cart and a strong brown horse. The cart was decorated with red and yellow flowers.

“It looks nice,” Mole said kindly.

“It’s not just nice—it’s freedom!” said Toad. “The open road, the wind in your fur, the stars at night…”

Rat sighed. “How long until you give this up too?”

“Never!” Toad shouted. “This is my true calling!”

They set off down the road. Toad held the reins and sang songs loudly.

At first, it was fun. The countryside was beautiful. They passed fields, trees, and happy animals. But after a few hours, Rat and Mole were tired.

Toad didn’t notice. He was too busy talking.

Suddenly, a loud noise came from behind them.

🚗 VROOM! A big red car sped past on the road, kicking up dust.

Toad jumped in surprise. His eyes lit up.

“What was that?” he whispered.

“A motor-car,” Rat said. “Noisy things.”

Toad was silent.

Then, very quietly, he said, “I want one.”

Rat groaned. “Oh no. Not again.”

Back at Toad Hall, Toad couldn’t stop talking about the car.

“It was so fast. So powerful! The way it moved—it was magic!”

Rat shook his head. “You’ll forget it tomorrow.”

But Mole wasn’t so sure. He saw a strange light in Toad’s eyes.

Toad’s adventures were just beginning…

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📖 Glossary

Word/Phrase	Meaning
Grand	Large and impressive
Hobby	Something you enjoy doing for fun
Cart	A small vehicle pulled by a horse
Reins	Straps used to guide a horse
Motor-car	An old word for car
Calling	A strong feeling of purpose or passion

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❓ Comprehension Questions

1. Where do Mole and Rat visit in this chapter?

2. What is Toad’s new idea?

3. How does Toad describe his cart?

4. What do they see on the road that excites Toad?

5. What does Toad say he wants?

6. How do Rat and Mole react to Toad’s new interest?

7. What does Mole notice about Toad at the end?

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✅ Answers

1. Toad Hall.

2. He wants to travel the country in a horse cart.

3. He says it means freedom and adventure.

4. A fast red motor-car.

5. He wants to own a motor-car.

6. Rat is annoyed; Mole is unsure.

7. He sees excitement and obsession in Toad’s eyes.

 

✦ IELTS Speaking Practice Test – Rivers, Lakes & Streams

✦ 1. Crystal-clear water

Definition: Water that is very clean, transparent, and pure.
Sentence: The island was surrounded by crystal-clear water, perfect for snorkeling.

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✦ 2. Gently flowing stream

Definition: A small river that moves slowly and smoothly.
Sentence: We sat by a gently flowing stream, listening to the calming sound of the water.

✦ 3. Peaceful riverside setting

Definition: A quiet and relaxing area beside a river.
Sentence: The café had a peaceful riverside setting, ideal for reading and enjoying a cup of tea.

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✦ 4. Glacial lake

Definition: A lake formed by melting glaciers, usually very clear and cold.
Sentence: The glacial lake reflected the snowy peaks like a mirror.

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✦ 5. Waterfront area

Definition: A part of a town or city that is next to a body of water, often used for leisure.
Sentence: The waterfront area is full of restaurants, walking paths, and street performers.

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✦ 6. Meandering river

Definition: A river that follows a winding or curved path.
Sentence: The meandering river added charm to the landscape as it twisted through the valley.

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✦ 7. Soothing sound of water

Definition: A calming or relaxing noise made by moving water.
Sentence: I fell asleep to the soothing sound of water from the nearby fountain.

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✦ 8. Teeming with wildlife

Definition: Full of animals, especially in natural water areas.
Sentence: The marshland was teeming with wildlife, including ducks, frogs, and dragonflies.

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✦ 9. Scenic views across the water

Definition: Beautiful or picturesque sights of a river, lake, or ocean.
Sentence: We chose a hotel with scenic views across the water and watched the sunset every evening.

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✦ 10. Flood-prone area

Definition: A location that is likely to experience flooding, especially during heavy rain.
Sentence: They built higher foundations because the village is a flood-prone area.

Part 1: Introduction & Interview

1. Do you like spending time near water?

2. Are there any rivers or lakes in your area?

3. What do people usually do near rivers or lakes in your country?

4. Would you prefer living near a river or in the mountains?

5. Do bodies of water attract many tourists where you live?

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Part 2: Cue Card

Describe a river, lake, or stream you have visited.
You should say:

• where it is

• what it looks like

• what people do there
  and explain why you enjoyed being there.

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✦ Sample Answers Using the Phrases

Part 1 Answers

1. Yes, I find water very calming—especially the soothing sound of a gently flowing stream.
2. There's a meandering river near my house where people like to walk their dogs.
3. People love fishing, picnicking, or just relaxing with scenic views across the water.
4. I'd prefer a peaceful riverside setting—water brings a sense of calm.
5. Definitely. Our city’s waterfront area is always filled with tourists, especially in summer.

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Part 2 Sample Answer

One of the most beautiful places I’ve visited is Lake Tekapo in New Zealand. It’s a stunning glacial lake with crystal-clear water that reflects the mountains around it.

We stayed in a cabin that offered scenic views across the water, and at night, the sky was filled with stars. It felt so peaceful, with the soothing sound of water and barely any noise.

There were ducks and birds everywhere—the lake seemed teeming with wildlife. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel calm and in touch with nature.

I loved the peaceful riverside setting and would go back in a heartbeat.

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✦ Comprehension Test: Rivers, Lakes & Streams

1. "The lake had crystal-clear water you could see right through."
Q: What does “crystal-clear” suggest about the water?

2. "We followed a gently flowing stream through the forest."
Q: How was the stream moving?

3. "The hotel was in a peaceful riverside setting—perfect for relaxing."
Q: What was special about the hotel’s location?

4. "The glacial lake was surrounded by snow-capped mountains."
Q: What kind of lake is being described?

5. "The city’s waterfront area is popular for walking and dining."
Q: What do people do in the waterfront area?

6. "The meandering river curved its way through the valley."
Q: How did the river move?

7. "I love the soothing sound of water from nearby streams."
Q: What feeling does the sound of water create?

8. "The wetlands were teeming with wildlife, especially birds and frogs."
Q: What kind of life is found in the wetlands?

9. "Our cottage had scenic views across the water at sunset."
Q: What made the cottage location special?

10. "That village is in a flood-prone area and often suffers during the rainy season."
Q: What problem does the village face?

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✦ Answer Key

1. It’s extremely clean and clear.

2. Slowly and calmly.

3. It was quiet and close to a river.

4. A lake formed by glacial activity.

5. Walk and eat near the water.

6. It moved in curves or bends.

7. Calmness or relaxation.

8. Many animals and birds.

9. It overlooked beautiful water scenes.

10. It’s at risk of flooding