Today, we’ll explore how to effectively answer weather-related questions in IELTS Speaking, a common topic that frequently appears in Part 1. Similar to describe a time you faced an unexpected situation, discussing weather requires both specific vocabulary and natural fluency.
IELTS examiner asking candidate about weather
Common Weather Questions in Part 1
Sample Questions:
- What’s the weather like today?
- Do you prefer hot or cold weather?
- How does weather affect your daily activities?
- What’s your favorite season? Why?
Model Answers (Band 8-9)
For “What’s the weather like today?”:
“It’s a pleasantly mild day today, with scattered clouds and a gentle breeze. The temperature is hovering around 20 degrees Celsius, which is fairly typical for this time of year in my region. I particularly enjoy days like this because they’re perfect for outdoor activities.”
Common weather vocabulary and expressions for IELTS Speaking
Part 2: Cue Card Sample
Topic: Describe a memorable weather event you experienced
You should say:
- When it happened
- Where you were
- What the weather was like
- How it affected you
Similar to describe a public transport experience you had, this topic requires detailed description and personal impact.
Sample Answer (Band 8-9)
“I’d like to tell you about an extraordinary weather event I experienced last summer. It was a spectacular thunderstorm that occurred while I was visiting my grandparents’ countryside home. The sky suddenly transformed from clear blue to ominously dark, and within minutes, we witnessed an impressive display of lightning that illuminated the entire landscape.
The wind was howling ferociously, and the rain came down in torrential sheets. What made it particularly memorable was how the atmospheric conditions created this surreal environment where everything seemed to be in slow motion. The storm lasted for approximately two hours, during which we had to take shelter indoors.
This experience left an indelible impression on me because it demonstrated the raw power of nature. It also led to some unexpected positive outcomes, as the entire neighborhood came together to help clean up afterward, fostering a sense of community.”
Part 3: Discussion Questions
Like describe a famous building or monument you visited, these questions require more abstract thinking and analysis.
Sample Questions and Answers
Q: How do you think climate change will affect weather patterns in the future?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“I think climate change will make weather more extreme. We might see more storms and higher temperatures in many places. This could affect farming and daily life.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“Climate change is likely to have far-reaching implications for global weather patterns. We’re already witnessing an unprecedented increase in extreme weather events, from severe droughts to intense tropical storms. These changes are particularly concerning because they could fundamentally alter agricultural cycles and disrupt ecosystems.”
Essential Vocabulary and Expressions
Weather Description
- Meteorological conditions /ˌmiːtiərəˈlɒdʒɪkl/ (adj): relating to weather phenomena
- Atmospheric pressure /ætməsˈferɪk ˈpreʃə/ (n): the force exerted by air
- Precipitation /prɪˌsɪpɪˈteɪʃn/ (n): rain, snow, or other forms of water falling from the sky
Useful Phrases
- “The weather tends to be…”
- “We’re experiencing…”
- “It’s typical for this time of year…”
Remember to practice these expressions regularly, just as you would prepare for describe an occasion when you wore your favorite clothes.
