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IELTSTM CUE CARD

Describe Your Favourite Season: IELTS Speaking Cue Card

Updated on Sep 12, 2024, 09:11

Overview

In this IELTS Speaking topic, “Describe Your Favourite Season”, you are expected to talk about a season you particularly enjoy and why it holds a special place for you. This topic requires you to express your personal experiences and preferences, describe the season's characteristics, and explain why it stands out among others. Key factors to consider include the season’s weather, activities, and emotional impact on you.

 

Practising this topic will enhance your ability to speak fluently and coherently about personal subjects. By articulating why a particular season is your favourite, you will improve your descriptive language skills and your ability to provide detailed explanations. This exercise will help you build confidence in discussing personal topics, which is a crucial skill for the IELTS Speaking Test.

 

Cue Card/Topic: Describe Your Favourite Season

You should say

  • What season is it?
  • What the weather is like at that time of year?
  • How is that season different from other seasons?
  • Why is it your favourite season?
Sample Answer 1

Introduction (Covers: What season is it?)

 

  • One of my favourite seasons is winter. In India, winter typically starts around November and lasts until February. 
  • During this time, the weather is pleasantly cool, which is a welcome change from the scorching summer heat. 
  • The crisp air and clear skies make it a delightful season to enjoy outdoor activities.

 

Describing Your Experience/Opinion/Interest (Covers: What the weather is like at that time of year?)

 

  • During winter, the temperatures in most parts of India drop to a comfortable level, often ranging between 10°C to 20°C. 
  • This is especially enjoyable in places like Delhi and Shimla, where the cold weather makes it perfect for wearing cosy sweaters and enjoying warm beverages. 
  • I love spending time outdoors, whether it’s going for early morning walks or participating in winter festivals. 
  • The season also brings festive cheer with celebrations like Christmas and New Year’s.

 

Key Highlights (Covers: How is that season different from other seasons?)

 

  • Winter stands out from other seasons due to its unique combination of cooler temperatures and festive atmosphere. 
  • Unlike the humid monsoon or the hot summer, winter allows for outdoor activities without the discomfort of excessive heat. 
  • The season also brings special events like Republic Day parades and Makar Sankranti, which add to the overall charm. 
  • Additionally, winter is known for its harvest festivals and the opportunity to enjoy seasonal fruits like oranges and strawberries.

 

Conclusion (Covers: Why is it your favourite season?)

 

  • Winter is my favourite season because it offers a refreshing break from the heat and humidity of other seasons. 
  • The cool weather makes it an ideal time for both relaxation and celebration.
  • I particularly enjoy the cultural events and family gatherings that happen during this time. 
  • The season’s pleasant climate and festive spirit make it truly special and enjoyable for me.
Sample Answer 2

Introduction (Covers: What season is it?)

 

  • My favourite season is autumn, which typically spans from September to November in India.
  • During autumn, the weather starts to cool down after the intense summer heat, offering a pleasant and comfortable atmosphere.
  • It’s a time when the landscape transforms with beautiful changing colours, which I find really captivating.

 

Describing Your Experience/Opinion/Interest (Covers: What the weather is like at that time of year?)
 

  • In autumn, temperatures begin to moderate, making it ideal for outdoor activities without the discomfort of summer's heat or the chill of winter.
  • I enjoy visiting parks and gardens during this season as the leaves turn shades of orange and yellow, creating a picturesque setting.
  • This season is also marked by festivals like Diwali, which brings a vibrant and festive spirit to the surroundings with lights and celebrations.

 

Key Highlights (Covers: How is that season different from other seasons?)
 

  • Autumn differs from other seasons because it provides a smooth transition from the heat of summer to the cooler weather of winter.
  • Unlike the rainy monsoon or the sweltering summer, autumn’s dry and mild weather is perfect for outdoor events and gatherings.
  • The season is also notable for its harvest festivals, such as Navratri, which involve special foods and traditional celebrations that highlight the season’s charm.

 

Conclusion (Covers: Why is it your favourite season?)

 

  • I love the autumn season because it offers a wonderful balance of mild weather and festive activities, making it a delightful time of year.
  • The changing colours of nature and the cultural festivities create a unique and enjoyable atmosphere.
  • Overall, autumn’s pleasant climate and vibrant celebrations make it the most appealing season for me.
Sample Answer 3

Introduction (Covers: What season is it?)

 

  • My favourite season in India is the monsoon season, which typically starts in June and continues until September.
  • During this season, the weather changes dramatically as the country experiences heavy rainfall, which brings a refreshing break from the heat.
  • The monsoon season is characterised by lush greenery and cool breezes, creating a unique and soothing atmosphere.

 

Describing Your Experience/Opinion/Interest (Covers: What the weather is like at that time of year?)

 

  • The monsoon brings a significant drop in temperatures, providing a welcome relief from the intense summer heat.
  • I enjoy the monsoon because it transforms the landscape into a vibrant, green environment, with rivers and lakes brimming with water.
  • This season also features cultural events like Ganesh Chaturthi, where the rain adds a special touch to the celebrations and festivities.

 

Key Highlights (Covers: How is that season different from other seasons?)
 

  • Monsoon stands out from other seasons due to the dramatic shift in weather, which brings much-needed rain to replenish water sources and support agriculture.
  • Unlike the dry summer or chilly winter, the monsoon’s frequent showers create a refreshing and lively atmosphere.
  • The season is also known for its lush scenery, with blooming flowers and verdant fields, which offer a beautiful contrast to the arid conditions of summer.

 

Conclusion (Covers: Why is it your favourite season?)
 

  • I like the monsoon season because it offers a refreshing change from the heat and brings life to nature with its rains and greenery.
  • The season’s vibrant transformation and the cultural festivals it accompanies make it a special time of year.
  • Overall, the monsoon’s unique weather and natural beauty make it the most enjoyable season for me.

 

Also Read: Best IELTS Cue Cards for 7+ Band Score

When the cue card section begins, the examiner will hand you a cue card titled "Describe Your Favourite Season." 


You will have one minute to prepare your response. During this preparation time, you can make notes and organise your thoughts. After one minute, you’ll need to speak for up to two minutes on the topic.


The best way to answer a cue card is to break it down into smaller pieces: introduction, describing your experience, key highlights, and conclusion. To structure your response effectively, you can explore various tips and tricks for the IELTS speaking test.

 

Introduction (Covers: What season is it?)

 

  • Mention the season you are talking about. 
  • Briefly describe what this season is like.
  • State when this season occurs in the year.

 

Describing Your Experience/Opinion/Interest (Covers: What the weather is like at that time of year?)

 

  • Explain what the weather is typically like during this season.
  • Describe how you personally experience or enjoy this season.
  • Share any activities or traditions you associate with this season

 

Key Highlights (Covers: How is that season different from other seasons?)

 

  • Highlight what makes this season special or different from others.
  • Discuss any particular events or activities that are unique to this season.
  • Compare it briefly to other seasons to emphasise why it stands out.

 

Conclusion (Covers: Why is it your favourite season?)

 

  • Summarise why this season is your favourite.
  • Reflect on how this season impacts your mood or lifestyle positively.
  • Mention any long-term significance or favourite memories associated with this season.

 

By following this structure, you can ensure your response is clear, organised, and within the two-minute limit.

 

Also Read:

 

Follow-Up Questions

In the IELTS Speaking test, the follow-up question round, also known as Part 3, involves a discussion based on the topic of your cue card. These questions aim to explore your ability to expand on your initial answers, providing deeper insights and personal reflections. 

 

You should expect questions that prompt you to elaborate on your opinions, compare different aspects, or discuss related themes. This round assesses your ability to think critically and communicate your ideas clearly.

Q1. Describe the seasons in your country.

Answer 1: In India, we experience four main seasons: summer, monsoon, winter, and autumn. Summer is hot and dry, with temperatures soaring above 40°C in many places. Monsoon brings heavy rains and cooler temperatures. Winter is mild and pleasant, especially in the northern parts of the country. Autumn is relatively short, transitioning between summer and winter.

 

Answer 2: India has a diverse climate with four distinct seasons. Summer is characterised by intense heat, particularly in northern and central India. The monsoon season follows, with heavy rainfall that cools the temperatures. Winter is a welcome change with cooler weather, and autumn acts as a brief period of transition, bringing slightly cooler temperatures before winter fully sets in.

Q2. What's the necessity of clothes in a particular season?

Answer 1: In winter, warm clothes like sweaters and jackets are essential to stay comfortable and protect against the cold. Layering is important because temperatures can vary throughout the day. During summer, lightweight, breathable fabrics help keep you cool and comfortable in the heat. Each season’s clothing is designed to manage the temperature and weather conditions effectively.

 

Answer 2: Clothing plays a crucial role in maintaining comfort across different seasons. In winter, thermal wear and heavy coats are necessary to guard against the cold. Conversely, in summer, wearing light, airy clothes helps you stay cool and prevents overheating. Appropriate clothing is vital for adapting to seasonal changes and ensuring well-being throughout the year.

Q3. Which is the most comfortable season in your country?

Answer 1: For me, winter is the most comfortable season in India. The cooler temperatures provide relief from the intense heat of summer and the humidity of monsoon. Winter is also ideal for outdoor activities and social gatherings without the discomfort of extreme weather conditions.

 

Answer 2: I find that winter is the most comfortable season in India. The weather is pleasantly cool and allows for easy outdoor activities. Unlike the oppressive heat of summer or the heavy rains of monsoon, winter offers a more moderate climate that’s perfect for enjoying various activities comfortably.

Q4. What are the seasons you have in your country but other countries do not?

Answer 1: India has a distinct monsoon season that is not present in many other countries. This season is marked by heavy rains and is crucial for agriculture in India. While other countries might have rainy seasons, the intensity and duration of the Indian monsoon are quite unique.

 

Answer 2: The monsoon season in India is quite distinctive and not experienced in many other countries. This season is characterised by a significant amount of rainfall that is vital for the country's agriculture. Other nations may have rainy periods, but the scale and impact of the Indian monsoon are quite exceptional.

 

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FAQs

Q. How can I get 8.5 in IELTS speaking?

Ans. To achieve an 8.5 in IELTS Speaking, focus on demonstrating high fluency and coherence in your speech. Use a wide range of vocabulary and complex sentence structures accurately. Practise speaking regularly with native speakers or language experts to refine your pronunciation and intonation. Record and review your practice sessions to identify and address areas of improvement. Consistent, targeted practice and feedback are crucial to reaching this level.

Q. Is there any dress code for speaking in IELTS?

Ans. There is no formal dress code for the IELTS Speaking test, but it’s advisable to dress smartly and comfortably. Wearing professional or semi-formal attire can help you feel more confident and create a positive impression on the examiner. Avoid overly casual clothing like shorts or flip-flops, as it may not convey the seriousness of the test. Dressing neatly and appropriately can contribute to a positive test experience.

Q. How do I improve my speaking skills?

Ans. Improving your speaking skills involves regular practice and engagement with the language. Practice speaking with native speakers or language partners to build fluency and confidence. Expand your vocabulary and work on using varied sentence structures in your conversations. Listening to and mimicking native speakers can help with pronunciation and intonation. Consistent practice and seeking constructive feedback will aid in your improvement.

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