The IELTS is one of the most recognized English proficiency tests that study abroad aspirants must take. The scores are given in the form of bands, ranging from 0 to 9. An IELTS band of 7 is accepted by most renowned international universities, like the California Institute of Technology, McGill University, the University of Manchester, and many more.
The IELTS Speaking Section is divided into three parts, and the second section is considered the hardest. Here, you are given cue cards, which include prompts upon which you need to think and deliver a speech. In this blog, we have provided sample answers for one of the most popular cue card topics - Describe a tradition in your country. Begin reading to understand how you can formulate your answer, the kind of questions that can be asked after your response, how to ace the IELTS speaking test, and more.
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What is an IELTS Cue Card?
A cue card is used to assess the candidates' eloquence and vocabulary. On the day of the IELTS speaking test, you will be given a cue card mentioning a topic for approximately two minutes. The card will also include 2-4 pointers that you can expound on. Before speaking, you can take a minute to organise your thoughts and structure your answer by jotting the important points on paper. Following the one-minute preparation period, the examiner will ask you to begin answering. A breakdown of the duration, bands, and sections of the cue card is provided below:
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Duration |
11–14 minutes |
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Number of Parts |
3 |
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Band Score Range |
0-9 |
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Test Mode |
Offline/Online |
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Why are IELTS Cue Cards Important?
The IELTS cue cards are an essential part of the speaking section of the exam. They are essentially prompts that provide you with a topic to talk about for two minutes. Here's why they are important!
Describe A Tradition In Your Country: Sample Answer 1
What is it?
Touching the feet of our parents and seniors is a tradition that is practiced by a large majority of the Indian population, irrespective of their personal and spiritual beliefs. Personally, I always touch my parents' feet before beginning any new project.
Who takes part in it?
This tradition is widely observed by most of the Indian population, irrespective of their personal and spiritual beliefs. It is a deeply ingrained part of the Indian value system.
What activities are there?
The act of touching the feet of elders involves bowing down and gently touching their feet with one's hands or head. This gesture is performed on various occasions, such as meeting elders after a long time, seeking blessings before starting a new venture, on special events like birthdays or festivals, and as a general sign of respect.
Explain how you feel about it.
I appreciate this tradition. Touching my parents' feet before commencing any new project, before an exam, or on auspicious occasions like birthdays and New Year is a practice I wholeheartedly embrace. It not only reinforces the core value of respecting and honoring our elders but also carries the belief that their blessings and well-wishes hold the power to guide us through life's challenges. This tradition holds profound significance in maintaining the strong family bonds and cultural values of Indian society. I cherish this tradition and hope to pass it down to future generations.
Describe A Tradition In Your Country: Sample Answer 2
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What is it?
One of the unique traditions in India is the practice of performing Aarti, a ritual involving the waving of lit lamps in a circular motion, often accompanied by the chanting of mantras or devotional songs.
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Who takes part in it?
Hindus practice this Aarti ritual primarily although some Sikhs and Jains practice it. It is a common sight in temples, homes, and during religious ceremonies and festivals.
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What activities are there?
During the Aarti ritual, a small lamp or a platter with lit wicks (divas) is rotated in a circular motion while mantras or devotional songs are recited or sung. The lamps are usually made up of brass or copper and filled with ghee (clarified butter) or oil. The ritual is performed to honor deities and seek blessings.
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Explain how you feel about it.
The Aarti ritual holds a special place in my heart. The rhythmic chanting, the flickering flames, and the fragrance of incense create a spiritual and calming atmosphere. Participating in this tradition connects me to my cultural roots and provides inner peace and devotion. It is a beautiful way to express respect and gratitude. The experience is deeply humbling and purifying.
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Describe A Tradition In Your Country: Sample Answer 3
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What is it?
One of the traditions in India is applying henna (mehndi) designs on the hands and feet, especially during auspicious occasions and festivals.
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Who takes part in it?
Women across various communities in India observe the mehndi tradition. It is popular during weddings, where mehndi designs are considered auspicious and a symbol of joy and celebration.
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What activities are there?
The mehndi designs involve a skilled artist carefully creating intricate patterns on the hands and feet using a paste made from the leaves of the henna plant. The designs can range from simple floral patterns to elaborate and complex creations, depending on the occasion and personal preferences. The process can take several hours, and the designs typically last one to three weeks.
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Explain how you feel about it.
I have always been fascinated by the art of mehndi and the beautiful patterns it creates. Whenever there is a special occasion in my family, getting mehndi done is an integral part of the celebrations. It is a form of body art and a cherished tradition that connects me to my cultural heritage. Mehndi application is a relaxing and enjoyable experience, and the resulting designs are a source of pride and joy. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, mehndi holds deep symbolic significance, representing love, luck, and individual bond.
Describe A Tradition In Your Country: Sample Answer 4
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What is it?
India has a tradition of wearing traditional attire, particularly on special occasions and festivals. This includes vibrant saris for women and kurtas or dhotis for men.
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Who takes part in it?
The tradition of being dressed in Indian clothing is observed across the country, transcending regional, religious, and cultural boundaries. It connects people to their shared heritage and identity.
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What activities are there?
The activities associated with this tradition vary depending on the occasion. During festivals like Diwali, Holi, or Eid, people wear their finest traditional attire with intricate embroidery, jewelry, and accessories. At weddings and other celebratory events, the bride and groom, and their families, dress in elaborate traditional outfits that showcase the richness of their cultural heritage. Even in everyday settings, many individuals choose to wear traditional clothing as a way to honor their culture.
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Explain how you feel about it.
For me, wearing traditional Indian attire is not just a matter of dressing up; it is a connection to my cultural identity. The beautifully crafted garments, with their intricate designs and vibrant colors, are a testament to the skill and artistry of our weavers and artisans. Adorning these traditional outfits fills me with a sense of pride and belonging. It is a way to pay homage to the diverse traditions that have shaped our country's rich tapestry.
Sample/Follow-Up Questions and Answers
Once you deliver your answer on this or any other cue card topic, the IELTS exam will progress to the third section. Here, you will be required to answer some follow-up questions based on the cue card. This part of the exam lasts for one to two minutes. To familiarise yourself with the type of questions that can be asked on the cue card "Describe a tradition in your country", continue reading.
Once you deliver your answer on this or any other cue card topic, the third section of the IELTS exam will start. Here, you will answer some follow-up questions based on the cue card. This part of the exam lasts for one to two minutes. To familiarise yourself with the type of questions that can be asked on the cue card "Describe a tradition in your country", continue reading.
Q1. How important are traditions in maintaining a society's cultural identity?
A1. Traditions play a vital role in preserving a society's cultural identity. They link to a community's history, values, and beliefs, fostering a sense of continuity and belonging. Traditions help individuals connect with their roots and pass down their heritage to future generations, ensuring the survival of unique customs, practices, and cultural expressions.
Q2. What role do traditions play in bringing communities together?
A2. Traditions often bring communities together by creating shared experiences and fostering a sense of unity. Participating in traditional festivals, ceremonies, or rituals allows people from diverse backgrounds to come together, celebrate their cultural heritage, and strengthen their social bonds. These collective experiences reinforce a sense of belonging and solidarity within the community.
Q3. Do you think, some traditions should be modified or abandoned as society progresses?
A3. While traditions are important, it's crucial to evaluate them critically and adapt or modify those that may be harmful, discriminatory, or incompatible with modern values and progress. Traditions that promote harmful practices, such as gender discrimination or environmental degradation, should be re-examined and reformed to align with contemporary ethical standards and societal needs. However, this process should be undertaken with sensitivity and respect for cultural heritage.
Q4. In your view, should traditions be passed down through generations, or should people be free to choose which ones to follow?
A4. Both perspectives have merits. Passing down traditions through generations helps preserve cultural heritage and maintain a sense of continuity. Individuals should be free to choose the traditions they wish to follow based on their beliefs and values. A balanced approach would be to educate people about the significance of their traditions while respecting their right to make informed choices about which practices resonate with them.
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Tips to Answer the IELTS Cue Card
Scoring well on the IELTS will be possible if you practice rigorously beforehand, immerse yourself in the English language completely, and obtain reliable materials to study from. Get some additional tips to ace your IELTS cue card section below!
Conclusion
The IELTS Speaking Part 2 Cue Card is more than just a test instrument; it provides examiners with insight into an individual's ability to formulate thoughts concisely. Achievement on the IELTS speaking test relies on planning, performance, and attitude. Describing traditions like Raksha Bandhan, Vallam Kalli, and Dahi Handi will let the examiners assess your cultural knowledge and language skills. Remember to practise beforehand, as it will boost your confidence and help you relax on the test day.
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