Similar to describe a time when you learned something valuable from a family member, family traditions are common topics in IELTS Speaking tests. Let’s explore how to effectively discuss this theme to achieve a high band score.
IELTS Speaking Test examining family traditions with examiner and candidate
Part 1: Introduction Questions
Common questions include:
- Do you have many family traditions?
- How important are family traditions in your culture?
- Which family tradition do you enjoy the most?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“We have several meaningful traditions in my family. The one I cherish most deeply is our annual New Year’s Eve gathering. It’s absolutely essential in our culture as it helps maintain strong family bonds and pass down values through generations.”
Part 2: Cue Card
Describe a family tradition you cherish
You should say:
- What the tradition is
- When it started
- Who participates in it
- And explain why this tradition is important to you
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to share about our time-honored tradition of making traditional dumplings together during Chinese New Year. This cherished custom has been passed down through generations in my family, dating back to my great-grandparents’ time.
What makes this tradition particularly special is how it brings together every family member, from the youngest to the eldest. My grandmother takes the lead in preparing the filling, while my mother expertly demonstrates the proper folding technique. Even the children eagerly participate by helping to roll out the dough.
This tradition is immensely significant to me because it serves as a beautiful reminder of our cultural heritage and family unity. During these gatherings, we not only create delicious food but also forge lasting memories and strengthen familial bonds. The elderly share stories about their youth, which helps us maintain a strong connection to our roots.”
Similar to describe a recent memorable family meal, this tradition involves food preparation as a bonding activity.
Sample Answer (Band 6-7):
“I want to talk about our family tradition of making dumplings at Chinese New Year. We started this tradition a long time ago. All my family members join in – my grandparents, parents, and siblings. We make the dumplings together and talk about many things. I think it’s important because it helps us stay close as a family.”
Part 3: Discussion Questions
- How are family traditions changing in modern society?
- Why do some young people reject family traditions?
- What role do traditions play in preserving culture?
For those interested in describe an annual celebration in your family, similar speaking strategies can be applied.
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“Family traditions are undergoing significant transformation in modern society. With globalization and technological advancement, many families are adapting their traditions to accommodate busy schedules and geographic separation. However, the core values and significance remain intact, albeit expressed differently.
Young people might resist traditions when they feel these practices are outdated or restrictive. However, I believe that traditions can be modernized while preserving their essence. They serve as cultural anchors that help maintain our identity in an increasingly interconnected world.”
Key Vocabulary and Phrases
- Time-honored (adj.) /taɪm ˈɒnəd/ – respected and valued for a long time
- Cherished (adj.) /ˈtʃerɪʃt/ – deeply loved and protected
- Pass down (phrasal verb) /pɑːs daʊn/ – to transfer something from one generation to another
- Forge (v.) /fɔːdʒ/ – to create or develop
- Cultural heritage (n.) /ˈkʌltʃərəl ˈherɪtɪdʒ/ – traditions and values passed down through generations
Remember to use these expressions naturally and appropriately within context to demonstrate your language proficiency effectively.
