The topic of describing an important tradition in your culture is a common theme in IELTS Speaking tests. It has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to remain relevant in future tests. This topic allows examiners to assess candidates’ ability to discuss cultural aspects, use descriptive language, and express personal opinions. Let’s explore how to effectively address this topic in each part of the IELTS Speaking test.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about traditions and customs. Here are some possible questions and sample answers:

1. Do you have any important traditions in your family?

Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, we do. One important tradition in my family is gathering for a big dinner during the Lunar New Year. It’s a time when all family members come together to celebrate.

Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely. One of the most cherished traditions in my family is our annual reunion dinner during the Lunar New Year festival. It’s a momentous occasion where extended family members from far and wide congregate to share a lavish meal, exchange good wishes, and strengthen familial bonds.

2. How do you celebrate important festivals in your country?

Band 6-7 Answer:
In my country, we celebrate important festivals with lots of food, decorations, and family gatherings. For example, during Diwali, people light lamps, exchange gifts, and set off fireworks.

Band 8-9 Answer:
In my country, festival celebrations are typically characterized by a vibrant tapestry of customs and rituals. Take Diwali, for instance. This festival of lights is marked by the illumination of homes with oil lamps, the exchange of elaborate gifts, and spectacular firework displays. These celebrations serve not only as a means of preserving cultural heritage but also as an opportunity to foster community spirit.

Describe a memorable experience you had in school can also be an interesting topic to discuss in your IELTS Speaking test, as it allows you to showcase your ability to narrate past events and express emotions.

Part 2: Long Turn

Here’s a sample cue card related to describing an important tradition in your culture:

Describe An Important Tradition In Your Culture that is changing
You should say:

• What the tradition is
• How it has changed
• Why it is changing
• And explain how you feel about this change

IELTS Speaking cue card example

Band 6-7 Answer:
I’d like to talk about the tradition of arranged marriages in my culture, which is undergoing significant changes. Traditionally, parents would choose life partners for their children based on family background, social status, and horoscope compatibility. However, this practice has been evolving over the past few decades.

Nowadays, young people have more say in their choice of partners. While family approval is still important, individuals are often allowed to meet and get to know each other before making a decision. This change is primarily due to increased education, urbanization, and exposure to global cultures through media and the internet.

Personally, I have mixed feelings about this change. On one hand, I appreciate the freedom it gives to young people to choose their life partners. On the other hand, I sometimes worry that we might be losing some valuable aspects of our cultural heritage.

Band 8-9 Answer:
I’d like to shed light on the tradition of arranged marriages in my culture, which is currently undergoing a profound transformation. Historically, this practice entailed parents orchestrating matrimonial alliances for their offspring, with considerations revolving around family lineage, social standing, and astrological compatibility.

However, this custom has been evolving dramatically in recent decades. The contemporary landscape sees young individuals wielding significantly more autonomy in their choice of life partners. While familial approval remains a crucial factor, there’s now ample opportunity for prospective couples to interact and cultivate a relationship prior to formalizing any commitment.

This shift can be attributed to a confluence of factors, including the proliferation of higher education, rapid urbanization, and unprecedented exposure to global cultures through various media channels and the internet. These influences have collectively reshaped societal norms and expectations surrounding marriage.

Reflecting on this cultural evolution evokes mixed emotions in me. On one hand, I wholeheartedly endorse the increased autonomy afforded to young individuals in making such a pivotal life decision. It aligns with the principles of personal freedom and self-determination that I value. Conversely, I can’t help but feel a tinge of nostalgia and concern that we might be inadvertently eroding some quintessential aspects of our cultural heritage. The challenge lies in striking a delicate balance between embracing progress and preserving our cultural roots.

Follow-up questions:

1. Do you think this change in tradition will continue in the future?

Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I think this change will continue. As our society becomes more modern and connected to the world, young people will want more freedom in choosing their partners.

Band 8-9 Answer:
I’m inclined to believe that this trajectory of change will persist in the foreseeable future. As our society continues to evolve and integrate with the global community, it’s likely that the younger generations will increasingly advocate for greater autonomy in their personal decisions, including partner selection. However, I anticipate that this evolution will be nuanced, potentially resulting in a hybrid model that retains certain elements of traditional arranged marriages while incorporating more progressive attitudes.

2. Are there any other traditions in your culture that are changing?

Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, there are several other traditions changing in my culture. For example, traditional festivals are becoming more commercialized, and some traditional crafts are dying out as younger generations prefer modern jobs.

Band 8-9 Answer:
Indeed, numerous traditions in my culture are undergoing significant transformations. One notable example is the increasing commercialization of traditional festivals, which, while enhancing their scale and visibility, often comes at the cost of diluting their spiritual essence. Another pertinent instance is the gradual decline of traditional craftsmanship. As younger generations gravitate towards modern, technology-driven professions, many time-honored skills are at risk of being lost. This shift in vocational preferences is reshaping the cultural landscape, presenting both opportunities for economic growth and challenges in preserving our cultural heritage.

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

In this section, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to traditions and cultural changes. Here are some possible questions and sample answers:

1. Why do you think some traditions change over time?

Band 6-7 Answer:
I think traditions change because society changes. As people’s lifestyles and values change, some old traditions may not fit well anymore. Also, new technologies and ideas from other cultures can influence how we do things.

Band 8-9 Answer:
The evolution of traditions is often a reflection of broader societal shifts. As societies progress and adapt to new realities, certain traditions may become obsolete or less relevant to contemporary life. This transformation can be attributed to various factors, including technological advancements, globalization, and changing social values. For instance, the advent of digital communication has significantly altered many traditional forms of social interaction. Moreover, increased cross-cultural exposure through global media and travel has led to the assimilation of new ideas and practices, often resulting in the modification or reimagining of existing traditions. It’s a dynamic process that underscores the adaptability of cultural practices in response to changing circumstances.

2. How can societies balance preserving traditions with embracing change?

Band 6-7 Answer:
I think societies can balance this by keeping the important parts of traditions while allowing some changes. They can teach young people about their cultural heritage but also be open to new ideas. It’s important to understand why traditions exist and decide which ones are still valuable.

Band 8-9 Answer:
Balancing the preservation of traditions with the embrace of change is a delicate and nuanced endeavor for any society. One effective approach is to foster a deep understanding of the historical and cultural significance of traditions among younger generations. This can be achieved through comprehensive educational programs and cultural initiatives that illuminate the value of these practices. Simultaneously, societies should remain open to reinterpreting traditions in ways that resonate with contemporary sensibilities.

It’s crucial to distinguish between the core essence of a tradition and its superficial trappings. By identifying and preserving the fundamental principles underlying traditions, societies can allow for adaptations in form without compromising the substance. Additionally, encouraging dialogue between different generations can facilitate a more organic evolution of traditions, ensuring they remain relevant and meaningful in a changing world.

Ultimately, the goal should be to create a cultural ecosystem where traditions are not static relics, but living, breathing entities that continue to inform and enrich modern life while adapting to new realities.

Describe a cultural performance that left an impression on you is another topic that can help you explore the intersection of tradition and modernity in your IELTS Speaking test.

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

To achieve a high score in your IELTS Speaking test when discussing traditions and cultural changes, consider using these sophisticated vocabulary items and phrases:

1. Cultural heritage /ˈkʌltʃərəl ˈherɪtɪdʒ/ (noun): The legacy of physical artifacts and intangible attributes of a group or society.
   Example: “Preserving our cultural heritage is crucial for maintaining our identity in a globalized world.”

2. Evolve /ɪˈvɒlv/ (verb): To develop gradually, especially from a simple to a more complex form.
   Example: “Our wedding traditions have evolved significantly over the past century.”

3. Assimilate /əˈsɪmɪleɪt/ (verb): To take in and fully understand information or ideas; to absorb and integrate people or ideas into a wider society or culture.
   Example: “Immigrants often assimilate elements of their new country’s culture while maintaining their own traditions.”

4. Juxtaposition /ˌdʒʌkstəpəˈzɪʃən/ (noun): The fact of two things being seen or placed close together with contrasting effect.
   Example: “The festival offered a fascinating juxtaposition of ancient rituals and modern technology.”

5. Paradigm shift /ˈpærədaɪm ʃɪft/ (noun): A fundamental change in approach or underlying assumptions.
   Example: “The acceptance of love marriages represents a paradigm shift in our traditionally conservative society.”

Key vocabulary for IELTS Speaking

Examiner’s Advice

To excel in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when discussing traditions and cultural changes:

1. Develop a broad vocabulary: Familiarize yourself with a range of words and phrases related to traditions, cultural practices, and social change. This will allow you to express your ideas more precisely and eloquently.

2. Practice storytelling: When describing traditions or changes, try to weave in personal anecdotes or examples. This not only makes your answer more engaging but also demonstrates your ability to connect abstract ideas to real-life situations.

3. Cultivate critical thinking: Don’t just describe traditions or changes, but also analyze their implications. Consider both positive and negative aspects to show depth of thought.

4. Use idiomatic expressions judiciously: Incorporate idiomatic expressions naturally into your speech, but don’t overuse them. They should enhance, not dominate, your language.

5. Work on pronunciation and fluency: Clear pronunciation and natural fluency are crucial for a high score. Practice speaking at length on various topics related to traditions and cultural changes.

6. Stay informed: Keep up with current events and discussions about cultural changes in your society and around the world. This will provide you with a wealth of examples to draw from during your test.

Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is not just about using sophisticated language, but about communicating your ideas clearly, coherently, and confidently.

Describe a person who has influenced your personal development could be an excellent topic to practice these skills, as it allows you to discuss cultural influences on individual growth.