As an IELTS instructor with over 20 years of experience, I often encounter students who feel anxious about unpredictable Speaking test topics. One such topic that can catch people off guard is discussing personal preferences about the weather, particularly rain. This article will guide you on how to confidently answer the question, “Do you like it when it’s raining?” in your IELTS Speaking test.
Understanding the Question’s Purpose
Remember, the examiner isn’t assessing your meteorological knowledge or whether you enjoy carrying an umbrella. They are evaluating your ability to:
- Express your opinion clearly and coherently.
- Utilize a range of vocabulary related to weather and emotions.
- Provide reasons and examples to support your viewpoint.
- Demonstrate fluency and natural communication.
How to Structure Your Answer
1. Directly Address the Question
Begin by clearly stating your preference. Don’t be afraid to be honest, whether you find rain soothing or bothersome.
Examples:
- “Actually, I quite enjoy rainy days…”
- “To be honest, I’m not a big fan of the rain…”
- “I have mixed feelings about rain…”
2. Elaborate on Your Feelings
This is where you provide depth to your response. Explain why you feel the way you do about rain.
Possible reasons for liking rain:
- The sound and smell: “I find the sound of raindrops incredibly calming, and the fresh, earthy smell after it rains is just wonderful.”
- The cozy atmosphere: “Rainy days give me an excuse to curl up with a good book and a cup of tea. It feels very cozy and relaxing.”
- The benefits for nature: “Rain is essential for plants and crops, so I appreciate its role in keeping our environment green and healthy.”
Possible reasons for disliking rain:
- Inconvenience: “Rain often disrupts my plans, especially if I want to be outdoors. It can make commuting more difficult as well.”
- The gloomy atmosphere: “Overcast skies and constant drizzle tend to make me feel a bit down. I much prefer sunny days.”
- Personal discomfort: “I really don’t enjoy the feeling of being cold and wet, so I avoid going out when it’s raining heavily.”
3. Provide Examples and Anecdotes
Illustrate your points with real-life experiences or observations. This makes your answer more engaging and personalized.
Examples:
- Personal experience: “I remember one rainy afternoon, I was feeling stressed from work. But then I sat by my window, listened to the rain, and felt all my worries melt away.”
- Observation: “In my country, people seem happier and more productive during the sunny months. The rain can really dampen everyone’s spirits.”
- Cultural reference: “We have a saying in my language that translates to ‘rainy day blues,’ which perfectly captures how some people feel about this weather.”
Sample Answer
Here’s an example of how to combine these elements into a well-rounded response:
Examiner: Do you like it when it’s raining?
Candidate: “You know, I have mixed feelings about rain. On one hand, I find it incredibly calming to listen to raindrops hitting the windowpane, especially when I’m reading a good book. There’s just something so peaceful and meditative about it. But on the other hand, as someone who loves spending time outdoors, heavy rain can really put a damper on my plans. I enjoy going for walks and bike rides, which are obviously less appealing when it’s pouring outside.”
Additional Tips
- Use a variety of vocabulary to describe rain (e.g., drizzle, downpour, torrential, showers) and your emotions (e.g., peaceful, cozy, gloomy, refreshing).
- Be prepared to discuss different aspects of rain, like the seasons it’s most common in your area, any cultural associations with rain, or how rain affects daily life in your country.
- Speak naturally and confidently, even if you need a moment to gather your thoughts.
Remember, there’s no right or wrong answer to this question. The key is to express your opinion clearly and support it with relevant examples. By following these tips and practicing your speaking skills, you can confidently tackle any weather-related topic on the IELTS Speaking test.