Mastering IELTS Speaking: How to Eloquently Describe Your Favorite Weather

When it comes to the IELTS Speaking test, being able to describe a type of weather you like is a common topic that candidates may encounter. This subject has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to remain relevant in future tests. Let’s explore how to effectively tackle this topic and achieve a high band score.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In this section, the examiner may ask you some general questions about weather. Here are a few examples:

1. What’s the weather like in your country?
2. Do you prefer hot or cold weather?
3. How does the weather affect your daily life?

Let’s look at a sample answer for the second question:

Examiner: Do you prefer hot or cold weather?

Candidate (Band 8-9 response): “I have a strong preference for warm weather, particularly the kind you experience in late spring or early autumn. I find that mild temperatures of around 20 to 25 degrees Celsius are ideal for outdoor activities and generally boost my mood. That said, I can appreciate the beauty of a crisp winter day, but I tend to gravitate towards warmer climates for their versatility and the positive impact they have on my overall well-being.”

Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)

Here’s a sample cue card related to describing weather:

Describe a type of weather you like
You should say:

• What kind of weather it is
• When this weather usually occurs
• What you usually do during this weather
• And explain why you like this type of weather

Sample answer (Band 8-9):

“I’d like to talk about my favorite type of weather, which is a warm, sunny day with a gentle breeze. This kind of weather typically occurs in my hometown during the late spring and early autumn months.

When we’re blessed with this idyllic weather, I make a point of spending as much time outdoors as possible. I often start my day with a refreshing jog in the local park, feeling the warmth of the sun on my skin and the cool breeze keeping me comfortable. Later, I might meet up with friends for a picnic in the countryside or enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the river.

I’m particularly fond of this weather for several reasons. Firstly, it strikes the perfect balance between warmth and comfort, allowing me to engage in various activities without feeling too hot or cold. Secondly, the abundant sunshine has a remarkable effect on my mood, making me feel more energetic and optimistic. Lastly, this weather brings people together, as everyone seems eager to make the most of the pleasant conditions, creating a vibrant atmosphere in the community.

In essence, this type of weather embodies what I consider to be the ideal conditions for both relaxation and activity, making it my absolute favorite.”

Examiner’s follow-up questions:

1. How does this weather affect your productivity?
2. Do you think climate change is affecting weather patterns in your area?

Sample answer for question 1 (Band 8-9):

“I find that this type of weather significantly boosts my productivity. The comfortable temperature and ample sunlight help me maintain high energy levels throughout the day, allowing me to focus more effectively on my tasks. Moreover, the pleasant conditions motivate me to complete my indoor work efficiently so that I can reward myself with some time outdoors. This balance between work and leisure enhances my overall productivity and job satisfaction.”

Sunny day enhancing outdoor productivity

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

Examiner: How do you think climate change might affect people’s preferences for different types of weather in the future?

Candidate (Band 8-9 response): “Climate change is likely to have a profound impact on people’s weather preferences in the coming years. As extreme weather events become more frequent and intense, we might see a shift in what people consider ideal weather. For instance, those who currently enjoy hot summers might start to favor milder temperatures as heatwaves become more common and severe. Similarly, people in coastal areas might develop a newfound appreciation for calm, dry weather due to the increased risk of storms and flooding.

Moreover, climate change could alter the very nature of seasons in many parts of the world, potentially leading to nostalgia for traditional weather patterns. This could result in people valuing weather stability more highly than specific types of weather. Additionally, as certain regions become less habitable due to rising temperatures or sea levels, we might see a global migration trend towards areas with more moderate climates, reshaping societal preferences on a larger scale.

It’s also worth considering that as awareness of climate change grows, people might start to associate their weather preferences with environmental consciousness. For example, someone might express a preference for cooler weather not just for comfort, but as a reflection of their concern about global warming. This could lead to a complex interplay between personal comfort, environmental ethics, and weather preferences in the future.”

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

1. Idyllic (adjective) /aɪˈdɪlɪk/ – extremely pleasant, peaceful, or picturesque
   Example: The idyllic weather made our beach vacation unforgettable.

2. To strike a balance (phrase) – to achieve a situation where different elements are equal or in the correct proportions
   Example: The spring weather strikes a perfect balance between warmth and coolness.

3. Versatile (adjective) /ˈvɜːrsətl/ – able to adapt or be adapted to many different functions or activities
   Example: Mild weather is versatile, allowing for a wide range of outdoor activities.

4. To gravitate towards (phrasal verb) – to be attracted to or move towards something
   Example: I naturally gravitate towards warm, sunny climates when planning vacations.

5. To embody (verb) /ɪmˈbɒdi/ – to represent an idea or quality in a clear and obvious way
   Example: A crisp autumn day embodies the essence of the changing seasons.

Examiner’s Advice

To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test when describing weather you like:

1. Use a wide range of vocabulary related to weather, climate, and personal preferences.
2. Provide detailed explanations and examples to support your opinions.
3. Connect your weather preferences to other aspects of life, such as activities, mood, or productivity.
4. Show awareness of broader issues like climate change when discussing weather patterns.
5. Practice speaking fluently and coherently about different weather conditions and their effects.

Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is not just about describing a type of weather you like, but also about demonstrating your ability to communicate effectively in English. Whether you’re describing a famous building you visited or talking about a recent holiday you went on, the same principles of clear communication and varied vocabulary apply. By mastering these skills, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle any topic that comes your way in the IELTS Speaking test.

IELTS Speaking test preparation

As you prepare for your IELTS Speaking test, remember that discussing weather is just one of many potential topics. You might also be asked to describe a season you look forward to or describe a favorite place in your city. The key is to approach each topic with confidence, utilizing a rich vocabulary and providing thoughtful, well-structured responses. With practice and preparation, you’ll be well-equipped to handle any question that comes your way in the IELTS Speaking test.