To, 10th formers 

In some English exams you have to speak or write about photos or pictures.

Here is a list of useful vocabulary and expressions for describing pictures or photos for oral/written exams.

What is there in the picture? (people, things, animals, places, etc)	In the picture I can see … There is a/ an +(adjective)+ singular noun There are (a couple/some/ a lot of) + (adjective) + plural noun There isn’t a + (adjective) + singular noun There aren’t any + (adjective) + plural noun
What is happening? (actions & weather) For actions use present continuous	The person/ animal is +verb-ing The people are + verb-ing It’s raining/ snowing, etc. It’s bright/ dark/ sunny/ cold/ hot, etc.
What might be happening? (If something in the picture is not clear you can make a guess)	It looks like a + noun It looks as if + person/animal + verb … It looks as though + persona/animal + verb … It seems that person/animal is … Maybe the person/animal is + verb-ing The person/animal might be +verb-ing
What could have happened before? (You can use your imagination and make a guess about the actions that happened before the picture was taken)	The person/animal might have + past participle … The person/animal may have + past participle … The person/animal could have + past participle … The person/animal couldn’t have + past participle …
Where in the picture? (location/ position)	At the top/bottom of the picture … In the foreground … In the background …. In the middle/ center of the picture … On the left/right of the picture … next to in front of across from behind near on top of under

Городская среда (Urban Environment)

• Городская улица: "This photograph shows a bustling city street during rush hour. In the foreground, pedestrians are crossing at a zebra crossing while vehicles wait at a traffic light. The buildings on both sides appear to be a mix of modern offices and traditional architecture. Judging by the style of the double-decker buses, this seems to be a street in London. The atmosphere feels dynamic and lively, capturing the essence of urban life."

• Кафе на тротуаре: "The image depicts a charming sidewalk café in what looks like a European city. Several tables with colorful umbrellas are arranged outside, where patrons are enjoying their drinks and conversations. A waiter in a black apron is serving a couple seated near the entrance. The cobblestone pavement and the ornate façade of the building suggest this might be in Paris or Rome. The scene conveys a relaxed, leisurely ambiance typical of café culture."

• Небоскребы: "This is an upward view of impressive skyscrapers in a major financial district. The glass-and-steel structures tower against a clear blue sky, creating dramatic geometric patterns. Some buildings have unique architectural features, such as curved facades or pointed tops. The perspective makes the viewer feel small in comparison to these massive structures, emphasizing human ingenuity and ambition in urban development."

• Парк в городе: "The picture shows an urban park serving as a green oasis amidst the city. People are engaged in various activities – some are jogging along the winding paths, others are having picnics on the grass, and a few are walking their dogs. Mature trees provide shade, and there's a small pond with ducks in the center. Despite being surrounded by tall buildings visible in the background, this space offers a tranquil retreat from urban hustle."

• Рынок: "This vibrant scene captures a busy outdoor market. Colorful stalls display fresh produce, handcrafted items, and various goods. Vendors are actively promoting their merchandise while customers browse and negotiate prices. The diversity of products and people suggests this is a multicultural marketplace. The lively atmosphere is enhanced by the sounds and smells one can almost perceive through the image."

Природа и ландшафты (Nature and Landscapes)

• Горный пейзаж: "The photograph portrays a majestic mountain landscape. Snow-capped peaks rise dramatically against a clear sky, while lower slopes are covered with dense pine forests. A crystal-clear lake reflects the mountains like a mirror in the foreground. The scene appears to be taken in early morning, as soft golden light bathes the mountain tops. This untouched wilderness evokes feelings of awe and serenity."

• Пляж: "This is a picturesque tropical beach with powdery white sand and turquoise water. Palm trees line the shore, swaying gently in the breeze. A few wooden loungers are scattered along the beach, and a couple can be seen walking hand in hand by the water's edge. The horizon where the ocean meets the sky is perfectly straight, creating a sense of infinite tranquility. This looks like an ideal destination for relaxation and escape."

• Поле цветов: "The image shows a vast field of vibrant wildflowers stretching toward the horizon. Predominantly purple and yellow blooms create a colorful carpet against the green backdrop. A narrow dirt path winds through the field, inviting the viewer to imagine walking through this natural spectacle. The low angle of the photograph emphasizes the abundance of flowers and creates an immersive perspective. The scene radiates natural beauty and the joy of springtime."

• PRACTICE:

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