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Mastering “What is the weather like today?” in IELTS Speaking

london fog

london fog

As an IELTS instructor with over 20 years of experience, I’ve encountered countless students who underestimate the importance of seemingly simple questions like “What is the weather like today?” in the IELTS Speaking test. While it appears straightforward, this question offers a valuable opportunity to showcase your vocabulary and fluency in English.

The Significance of Weather Talk in IELTS Speaking

Discussing the weather might seem trivial, but it’s a crucial social lubricant in many cultures, including those where English is widely spoken. In the IELTS Speaking test, your ability to engage in natural, spontaneous conversation is assessed, and weather serves as a perfect starting point.

This question allows the examiner to:

Tackling “What is the weather like today?” Effectively

Here’s how to approach this question strategically:

  1. Provide a Clear and Concise Answer: Begin with a straightforward response using appropriate weather vocabulary. For example:

    • “It’s a beautiful sunny day today.”
    • “It’s rather chilly and overcast this morning.”
    • “We’re having a bit of a heatwave, so it’s quite humid.”
  2. Elaborate and Expand: Don’t stop at a single sentence. Add a detail or two to make your answer more engaging. Consider:

    • Personal Impact: “It’s a beautiful sunny day today, perfect for a picnic in the park.”
    • Comparison: “It’s much cooler today than it was yesterday. We had a real scorcher!”
    • Local Observation: “It’s quite foggy this morning, which is typical for London this time of year.”
  3. Use Varied Vocabulary: Instead of repeating “sunny” or “rainy,” demonstrate your range. For example:

    • Instead of “hot,” say “sweltering,” “boiling,” or “scorching.”
    • Instead of “cold,” try “freezing,” “chilly,” or “crisp.”

london fog

Example from a Real IELTS Speaking Test

Examiner: “What is the weather like today?”

Candidate: “Well, it’s actually quite pleasant today. It’s warm and sunny, with a light breeze. It’s a welcome change from the rain we’ve been having lately.”

This response is effective because it’s clear, uses varied vocabulary, and provides some elaboration by mentioning the recent weather and the speaker’s feeling about it.

Tips to Ace Your Response

Conclusion

While “What is the weather like today?” may seem like a simple question, it’s a valuable opportunity to shine in your IELTS Speaking test. By using accurate vocabulary, speaking fluently, and elaborating naturally, you can demonstrate your English language proficiency and create a positive impression on the examiner. Remember, confidence is key, so relax, be yourself, and let your personality shine through!

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