Family traditions play a significant role in shaping our identities and creating lasting memories. In IELTS Speaking exams, questions about unique family traditions are common, as they allow examiners to assess candidates’ ability to describe personal experiences and cultural practices. This topic has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to remain relevant in future tests.
Describe a memorable day you spent with family can often tie into family traditions, as these special days are often part of long-standing customs.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about family traditions. Here’s an example question with a suggested answer:
Examiner: “Do you have any special family traditions?”
Candidate (Band 8-9 response): “Absolutely. In my family, we have a unique tradition of planting a tree together every New Year’s Day. It’s not only a symbolic gesture of growth and renewal but also a practical way to contribute to the environment. This tradition has been passed down through generations and has resulted in a small forest on our family land.”
Part 2: Long Turn
Cue Card
Describe A Unique Family Tradition You Have.
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’m delighted to share with you a cherished family tradition that has been a part of our lives for over two decades. Every summer solstice, my extended family gathers for what we call our ‘Storytelling Campfire Night.’
This tradition began spontaneously when I was about seven years old. My grandfather, an avid storyteller, suggested we spend the longest day of the year sharing tales around a campfire. The idea caught on immediately, and we’ve continued it ever since.
The event involves all generations of our family, from great-grandparents to the youngest children. We also welcome new members who’ve joined the family through marriage or close friendships. It’s a wonderfully inclusive gathering that typically hosts about 30-40 people.
The tradition kicks off in the late afternoon with everyone pitching in to set up tents and prepare a potluck dinner. As twilight approaches, we light a large bonfire, and the storytelling begins. Each family member is encouraged to contribute a story – it could be a personal anecdote, a folk tale from our cultural heritage, or even a completely fabricated yarn.
What makes this tradition particularly special to me is how it strengthens our family bonds and preserves our history. Through these stories, we learn about our ancestors, share life lessons, and create new memories together. It’s a beautiful blend of entertainment and education, allowing us to pass down wisdom and cultural values to younger generations.
Moreover, this tradition has fostered creativity within our family. Over the years, I’ve witnessed shy cousins blossom into confident speakers, and children develop impressive storytelling skills. It’s truly heartwarming to see how this simple activity has enriched our family dynamic.
In essence, our Storytelling Campfire Night is more than just a tradition; it’s a testament to our family’s unity and a celebration of our shared narrative. It’s a magical experience that I look forward to every year, and one that I hope will continue for generations to come.”
Family gathered around campfire for storytelling tradition
Follow-up Questions
Examiner: “How has this tradition changed over the years?”
Candidate (Band 8-9 response): “The core essence of our tradition has remained constant, but we’ve made some thoughtful adaptations over time. We’ve incorporated technology by recording some stories for posterity and even allowing distant family members to join via video call. We’ve also expanded our culinary offerings, turning the potluck into a showcase of diverse family recipes. These changes have enhanced the experience while preserving its fundamental purpose of family bonding.”
Examiner: “Do you think it’s important for families to have traditions?”
Candidate (Band 8-9 response): “Absolutely. Family traditions serve as anchors in our increasingly fast-paced world. They provide a sense of continuity and belonging, which is crucial for emotional well-being. Traditions also act as a bridge between generations, facilitating the transmission of cultural values and family history. Moreover, they create shared experiences and memories that strengthen family bonds. In essence, traditions help forge a family’s unique identity and provide a comforting rhythm to life.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Examiner: “How do you think family traditions differ between urban and rural areas?”
Candidate (Band 8-9 response): “The nature and execution of family traditions can vary significantly between urban and rural settings. In rural areas, traditions often revolve around agricultural cycles or natural phenomena, such as harvest festivals or seasonal celebrations. These traditions tend to be more community-oriented and may involve larger extended families.
In urban areas, family traditions might be more diverse and individualized, reflecting the multicultural nature of cities. Urban families might create new traditions that fit their lifestyle, such as annual city explorations or cultural event attendances. However, urban traditions may face more challenges in terms of continuity and participation due to busy schedules and the transient nature of city life.
That being said, the core values underpinning family traditions – such as togetherness, cultural preservation, and creating shared experiences – remain universal across both settings. The key difference lies in how these traditions are adapted and expressed within their respective environments.”
Describe a foreign dish you want to try can be an interesting way to discuss how food-related traditions differ across cultures.
Examiner: “In what ways do you think technology has impacted family traditions?”
Candidate (Band 8-9 response): “Technology has had a profound and multifaceted impact on family traditions. On one hand, it has facilitated the preservation and sharing of traditions. Digital platforms allow families to document their traditions through photos and videos, creating lasting records for future generations. Social media and video calling have made it possible for geographically dispersed families to participate in traditions together, albeit virtually.
Conversely, technology has also posed challenges to some traditional practices. The constant connectivity and digital distractions can make it difficult for families to fully engage in traditions that require presence and focus. Some families find themselves competing with screens for attention during traditional gatherings.
However, many families have creatively integrated technology into their traditions. For instance, some have started digital scrapbooking of family events or created private social media groups for sharing family stories and updates. Others use apps to coordinate large family gatherings or to collaboratively plan traditional meals.
In essence, while technology has altered the landscape of family traditions, it has also provided new avenues for families to adapt and evolve their traditions to fit contemporary lifestyles. The key lies in striking a balance – using technology to enhance traditions without letting it overshadow the human connection at their core.”
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
Cherished /ˈtʃerɪʃt/ (adjective): Loved and protected with care.
Example: “Our annual family reunion is a cherished tradition.”Spontaneously /spɒnˈteɪniəsli/ (adverb): In a way that was not planned or forced.
Example: “The tradition began spontaneously during a family gathering.”To catch on (phrasal verb): To become popular or fashionable.
Example: “The idea of a yearly family talent show quickly caught on.”Inclusive /ɪnˈkluːsɪv/ (adjective): Not excluding any section of society.
Example: “We strive to make our family traditions inclusive of all members.”To kick off (phrasal verb): To begin or start.
Example: “We kick off our family tradition with a special breakfast.”To foster /ˈfɒstə(r)/ (verb): To encourage the development of something.
Example: “These traditions foster a sense of belonging among family members.”Testament /ˈtestəmənt/ (noun): Something that serves as evidence or proof.
Example: “Our long-standing tradition is a testament to our family’s unity.”
Describe a favorite childhood toy can often relate to family traditions, especially if the toy was passed down through generations.
Examiner’s Advice
To excel in the IELTS Speaking test when discussing family traditions:
Use personal anecdotes: Share specific examples from your own experience to make your answers more engaging and authentic.
Employ a range of vocabulary: Utilize varied and sophisticated vocabulary related to family, traditions, and cultural practices.
Demonstrate cultural awareness: Show understanding of how traditions may vary across different cultures or generations.
Structure your answers: Organize your thoughts logically, especially in Part 2, to ensure a coherent and comprehensive response.
Express opinions confidently: In Part 3, don’t hesitate to share your views on broader issues related to family traditions, supporting them with reasons and examples.
Practice fluency: Work on speaking smoothly and naturally, minimizing hesitations and fillers.
Engage with the examiner: Show interest in the topic and maintain good eye contact to demonstrate confidence and communication skills.
By following these tips and using the sample answers as inspiration, you can effectively prepare for questions about family traditions in your IELTS Speaking test. Remember, the key is to speak naturally and confidently about your personal experiences and views.
IELTS candidate preparing for speaking test
Describe a person who enjoys cooking can be an excellent way to discuss family traditions related to food preparation and sharing meals.
