As an IELTS instructor with over 20 years of experience, I’ve encountered countless students who underestimate the importance of IELTS Speaking Part 1. They often see it as a simple warm-up, but it’s much more than that. This seemingly casual conversation is your first opportunity to make a positive impression on the examiner and showcase your fluency, vocabulary, and ability to articulate your thoughts effectively. A common topic in this part is about personal preferences, and a question about rainy days often comes up. Don’t let the simplicity of the question fool you! Your response about how rainy days make you feel can reveal a lot about your English proficiency.
Understanding the Importance of “How the Rainy Day Make You Feel” in IELTS Speaking Part 1
The examiner isn’t just interested in whether you like or dislike rain. They are assessing:
- Vocabulary: Can you use a range of adjectives to describe feelings and weather-related vocabulary accurately?
- Fluency and Coherence: Can you speak smoothly and connect your ideas logically?
- Grammar: Are you using the correct tenses and grammatical structures?
- Pronunciation: Is your pronunciation clear and easy to understand?
Crafting Your Response
Here’s a breakdown of how to answer “How the rainy day make you feel” effectively:
1. Go Beyond Simple Answers
Avoid one-word answers like “good” or “bad.” Instead, aim for answers that are at least two to three sentences long.
Example:
- Don’t say: “I feel relaxed.”
- Do say: “Actually, rainy days make me feel quite relaxed. There’s something so calming about the sound of raindrops. It helps me to unwind after a long day.”
2. Use a Variety of Vocabulary
Showcase your vocabulary range by using diverse adjectives and descriptive language.
Example:
Instead of saying “happy,” consider using words like:
- Content
- Cheerful
- Refreshed
- Peaceful
Instead of saying “sad,” you could say:
- Melancholic
- Reflective
- Nostalgic
3. Provide Reasons for Your Feelings
Don’t just state your feelings; explain why you feel that way. This demonstrates your ability to develop your ideas and use linking words effectively.
Example:
“I usually feel a sense of tranquility when it rains. Perhaps it’s because the sound of rain creates a peaceful ambiance, almost like white noise that helps me to focus.”
4. Consider Different Perspectives
While it’s good to have a personal opinion, showing that you can see things from multiple angles indicates a higher level of thinking.
Example:
“While I enjoy the coziness of a rainy day, I understand that some people might find it gloomy. I suppose it depends on your personality and perspective.”
Rainy Day Cozy Reading
Sample IELTS Speaking Part 1 Dialogue
Let’s look at a potential dialogue using the question about rainy days:
Examiner: “How do rainy days make you feel?”
Candidate: “Well, I tend to find rainy days quite comforting. The sound of rain drumming against the window has a very calming effect on me. It’s a perfect time to curl up with a good book and a cup of tea.”
Examiner: “Do you often have rainy days where you live?”
Candidate: “Actually, my city experiences quite distinct seasons. We have a rainy season that lasts for a few months, so I’ve become quite accustomed to the rain. In fact, I’ve come to appreciate it.”
Tips for Success
- Practice Regularly: The more you practice, the more confident and fluent you’ll become. Find a speaking partner or record yourself answering various Part 1 questions.
- Expand Your Vocabulary: Make a conscious effort to learn new vocabulary related to feelings, weather, and everyday activities.
- Pay Attention to Grammar: Ensure you are using the correct tenses and grammatical structures. Even small errors can impact your score.
- Don’t Memorize Answers: While it’s good to prepare ideas, avoid memorizing full answers as this can sound robotic and unnatural.
Conclusion
Remember, IELTS Speaking Part 1 is your chance to create a strong first impression. By approaching questions about seemingly simple topics like rainy days with thoughtfulness and a desire to demonstrate your language skills, you can set a positive tone for the rest of the exam. Good luck!