Describe An Interesting Tradition In Your Country: IELTS Speaking Cue Card

You should say

  • What does it look like?
  • When did you see it?
  • Where did you see it?
  • Explain why it is interesting.

Band 7

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In my country, India, the tradition which is very interesting is Diwali. Diwali is also called the festival of lights. Diwali is celebrated by many people like Hindus, Sikhs, Jains and Buddhists. Diwali marks a victory of light over the darkness. During Diwali, people decorate their homes with lights or with oil lamps which are called as Diya. And the colorful rangoli at the entrance of the home. People also light fireworks during Diwali. The main day during the occasion is the Lakshmi Puja. Lakshmi Puja. Lakshmi is also called the... People also exchange gifts during this occasion and people celebrate it with joy. The entire atmosphere during this occasion is filled with joy, laughter and the sense of togetherness.

Follow up questions


What preparations do people make for Diwali?
People prepare for Diwali by cleaning their homes, buying new clothes, and purchasing decorations like lights and diyas. Many also prepare special sweets and snacks to share with family and friends. The excitement builds up as families come together to celebrate and decorate their homes.

How do people celebrate Diwali in different regions of India?
In different regions of India, Diwali is celebrated with unique customs. For instance, in North India, people often perform Lakshmi Puja, while in South India, they may celebrate with a different set of rituals. Each region has its own traditional foods and festivities, showcasing India's cultural diversity.

What is the significance of exchanging gifts during Diwali?
Exchanging gifts during Diwali symbolizes love, friendship, and goodwill among family and friends. It strengthens relationships and fosters a sense of community. Gifts can range from sweets and decorative items to personal presents, reflecting the joy and generosity of the festival.

Band 6-7

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00:00

Every year before Eid al-Fitr, my people and individuals in this country start going around, running over malls, shops and stores to find specific ingredients that they would need to bake biscuits known as kahak. You may ask, why is it this important? Why do people go out of their way just to bake some biscuits? Simply, it's just biscuits. And the thing behind it would be the gathering. What really makes it special is how you see the whole family member just coming together, spending quality time chatting and laughing and joking while creating some delicious homemade desserts. It's a moment or it's a way to send joy and good vibes around. It helps us to connect and get away from our busy life and take a break for a while. It gives the holidays meaning, it's magic. And honestly, it's my favorite thing out of the whole thing. I tried learning how to join this event since last year and eventually I got better, gradually better. I started creating new styles and she is with the biscuit and even maybe picked up a new hobby.

Follow up questions


What other traditions do you celebrate during Eid al-Fitr?
In addition to baking kahak, we also have a tradition of giving zakat, which is charity to those in need. Families gather for prayers, share meals, and exchange gifts. It's a time for community and generosity, making the celebration even more meaningful.

How do you think traditions like this impact family relationships?
Traditions like baking kahak strengthen family bonds by providing opportunities for quality time together. They create shared memories and experiences that can be cherished for years. This connection is vital, especially in our fast-paced lives.

Have you learned any other skills while participating in this tradition?
Yes, while baking kahak, I've also learned about time management and teamwork. Coordinating with family members to gather ingredients and bake together has improved my organizational skills. Plus, I've picked up some culinary techniques that I enjoy using in other recipes.

Band 6-7

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00:00

The engaging tradition in my country is welcoming people with water. It shows our hospitality and respect to them. Also we should wear a formal dress when the guest is arriving to the house. For instance we should wear a dupatta to visit a temple which shows the respected manner in the environment for the culture and also it reflects my tradition. So I have to follow the rules and regulations thoroughly without any disturbance. If it is not followed by any people they have to pay a penalty fees. Also they should not visit the temple for a year. Yes of course there is a lot of reasons why they are doing like this. To visit a temple it should be in a manner traditional way and we should not wear any western culture cloths inside the temple. It shows the disrespect to the gods as well as the environment. Also we are not following the rules. So we also have to be very well mannered. Where ever we are going we should have a well dressed and not relieving parts of our body which is a must going on my culture and in my country. This is the tradition we must follow in India. Where ever home or temple you go this is the must rule you be following.

Follow up questions


How do you think traditions like this impact social relationships?
Traditions like welcoming guests with water and dressing formally strengthen social bonds. They create a sense of community and respect, fostering goodwill among people. Such practices encourage individuals to connect on a deeper level, promoting harmony and understanding within society.

Are there any modern influences affecting this tradition?
Yes, modern influences such as globalization and western culture are impacting traditional practices. Some people may choose to wear western attire or skip certain rituals, which can lead to a blend of cultures. However, many still uphold these traditions to maintain their cultural identity.

What role do you think younger generations play in preserving traditions?
Younger generations play a crucial role in preserving traditions by either embracing them or adapting them to modern contexts. Their participation in cultural practices ensures that these traditions continue. Education and awareness about the significance of these customs can help maintain their relevance.

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Band 6

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00:00

groom's house and they are staying there and one of the very interesting tradition in my country is based on Hindu cultural wedding and traditionally something which is very close to a person's heart and it shows really the culture of a particular country and basically speaking about Hindu traditional weddings there are ceremonies where bride and bridegroom get married and there is one of the most interesting thing we can see at the end of that particular wedding ceremony is Kanyadaanam which means that right hand of bride is given to the groom's right hand and it was done by father and it's particularly like the bride is moving to the groom's home and she is completely out of her family and she will be visiting only for holidays and all and it's basically after that Kanyadaanam it's a very common tradition we can see in Hindu cultures and it's basically for devotion, love, empathy and every mixture of feelings can be seen in that particular occasion and it's like then after the Kanyadaanam only the bride and the bridegroom will rotate the one fire which was continuously lighting on the stage and they will rotate continuously and after that only the wedding ceremony is completed so it's only can be witnessed in South India I think which is very interesting actually we can see and at that particular event happens there is a mixture of emotion in brides and her father's mind and the time from her birth to her marriage ceremony will be seen in the mind of father and he is gradually giving her child to some other family and she

Follow up questions


What other traditions are significant in Hindu weddings?
In addition to Kanyadaanam, other significant traditions include Saptapadi, where the couple takes seven steps together, symbolizing their journey in life. Another is the Mehendi ceremony, where intricate henna designs are applied to the bride's hands, representing joy and beauty.

How do these traditions vary across different regions of India?
Hindu wedding traditions can vary significantly across regions. For instance, in North India, the rituals may include the Bidaai, where the bride departs from her family, while in South India, the focus might be more on the Kanyadaanam and the rituals surrounding the fire, reflecting regional cultural nuances.

What emotions do families typically experience during these ceremonies?
Families often experience a mix of joy and sadness during these ceremonies. The bride's family feels happiness for her new journey but also sadness as they part with their daughter. The groom's family feels excitement and anticipation as they welcome a new member into their family.

Band 5-6

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00:00

India is the land of festivals and my favorite festival of all is Holi and I would like to consider it my favorite tradition as well because it makes everything look so beautiful and enchanting with colors flowing in the air and people just having fun, dancing on music, playing with water and just enjoying themselves. There are some bad things about this festival as well when people just throw water balloons on vehicles while traveling which is not safe at all. I remember when I was walking on the road and somebody randomly threw a water balloon at me and I had something very important to be and well, I was wet. That sounds wrong.

Follow up questions


What other festivals are celebrated in India?
India has a rich tapestry of festivals such as Diwali, Eid, and Christmas. Each festival has its own unique customs, foods, and significance, reflecting the diverse cultures and religions in the country. For example, Diwali is known as the festival of lights, symbolizing the victory of light over darkness.

How do people prepare for Holi?
Preparation for Holi usually begins days in advance. People buy colors, water balloons, and prepare festive foods. Homes are cleaned and decorated, and friends and family often gather to plan celebrations. Many also make traditional sweets like gujiya to share during the festivities.

What do you think can be done to make Holi safer?
To make Holi safer, awareness campaigns can be initiated to educate people about the dangers of throwing water balloons. Organizing community events with controlled environments for celebrations can also help. Additionally, promoting the use of eco-friendly colors can enhance safety and environmental consciousness.
Show all 6 answers

Cue 1:What does it look like?

  • Describe the visual aspects of the tradition, including colors, attire, and decorations.
  • Mention any specific symbols or items that are significant to the tradition.

Example

The tradition I want to describe is Diwali, the Festival of Lights. During this time, homes are adorned with colorful rangoli designs at the entrance, and people light small oil lamps called diyas. The streets are filled with vibrant decorations, and the atmosphere is alive with the glow of fireworks lighting up the night sky.


Cue 2:When did you see it?

  • Share a specific year or time when you experienced this tradition.
  • Mention if it was a recent event or if it has been a part of your life for many years.

Example

I saw this beautiful celebration last year in November. Diwali is celebrated every year, but last year was particularly special for me as I was able to celebrate it with my family after a long time.


Cue 3:Where did you see it?

  • Specify the location where you witnessed the tradition, such as your hometown or a specific community.
  • Include details about the setting, like whether it was in a public space or a private home.

Example

I experienced Diwali in my hometown, Jaipur. The entire city was lit up, but I particularly enjoyed the celebrations at my grandmother's house, where the family gathered to perform prayers and share sweets.


Cue 4:Explain why it is interesting.

  • Discuss the cultural significance of the tradition and what it represents.
  • Share personal feelings or memories associated with the tradition that make it special to you.

Example

Diwali is interesting because it symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. For me, it is a time of joy and togetherness, where I reconnect with my roots and family. The laughter, the delicious food, and the shared stories make it a memorable experience every year.


Conclusion

    Example

    In conclusion, Diwali is not just a festival; it is a celebration of life, love, and unity. It brings people together, and every year, I look forward to experiencing its magic with my loved ones.


    Following this structure will ensure you cover all the essential points while providing a clear and engaging response to the cue card topic.


    Tips to answer this Cue Card

    1: Being Vague in Descriptions

    Candidates often give unclear or general descriptions of the tradition, which can make their answer less engaging. Specific details help the examiner understand and visualize the tradition better.

    bulb icon

    Tip

    Use descriptive language and provide specific examples, such as colors, sounds, and feelings associated with the tradition.


    2: Ignoring the Cues

    Some candidates forget to address all the cues provided, leading to incomplete answers. This can result in a lower score for coherence and relevance.

    bulb icon

    Tip

    Make sure to answer all the cues: describe what it looks like, when and where you saw it, and explain why it is interesting.


    Lack of Personal Connection

    Failing to share personal experiences or feelings about the tradition can make the response less engaging. Personal stories can captivate the examiner's interest.

    bulb icon

    Tip

    Include your own experiences or emotions related to the tradition to make your answer more relatable and interesting.


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    All Answers

    Here are all the answers by real-users practicing speaking for IELTS Cue Cards on our IELTS Prep App.

    Band 7

    In my country, India, the tradition which is very interesting is Diwali. Diwali is also called the festival of lights. Diwali is celebrated by many people like Hindus, Sikhs, Jains and Buddhists. Diwali marks a victory of light over the darkness. During Diwali, people decorate their homes with lights or with oil lamps which are called as Diya. And the colorful rangoli at the entrance of the home. People also light fireworks during Diwali. The main day during the occasion is the Lakshmi Puja. Lakshmi Puja. Lakshmi is also called the... People also exchange gifts during this occasion and people celebrate it with joy. The entire atmosphere during this occasion is filled with joy, laughter and the sense of togetherness.

    Band 6-7

    The engaging tradition in my country is welcoming people with water. It shows our hospitality and respect to them. Also we should wear a formal dress when the guest is arriving to the house. For instance we should wear a dupatta to visit a temple which shows the respected manner in the environment for the culture and also it reflects my tradition. So I have to follow the rules and regulations thoroughly without any disturbance. If it is not followed by any people they have to pay a penalty fees. Also they should not visit the temple for a year. Yes of course there is a lot of reasons why they are doing like this. To visit a temple it should be in a manner traditional way and we should not wear any western culture cloths inside the temple. It shows the disrespect to the gods as well as the environment. Also we are not following the rules. So we also have to be very well mannered. Where ever we are going we should have a well dressed and not relieving parts of our body which is a must going on my culture and in my country. This is the tradition we must follow in India. Where ever home or temple you go this is the must rule you be following.

    Band 6-7

    Every year before Eid al-Fitr, my people and individuals in this country start going around, running over malls, shops and stores to find specific ingredients that they would need to bake biscuits known as kahak. You may ask, why is it this important? Why do people go out of their way just to bake some biscuits? Simply, it's just biscuits. And the thing behind it would be the gathering. What really makes it special is how you see the whole family member just coming together, spending quality time chatting and laughing and joking while creating some delicious homemade desserts. It's a moment or it's a way to send joy and good vibes around. It helps us to connect and get away from our busy life and take a break for a while. It gives the holidays meaning, it's magic. And honestly, it's my favorite thing out of the whole thing. I tried learning how to join this event since last year and eventually I got better, gradually better. I started creating new styles and she is with the biscuit and even maybe picked up a new hobby.

    Band 6

    groom's house and they are staying there and one of the very interesting tradition in my country is based on Hindu cultural wedding and traditionally something which is very close to a person's heart and it shows really the culture of a particular country and basically speaking about Hindu traditional weddings there are ceremonies where bride and bridegroom get married and there is one of the most interesting thing we can see at the end of that particular wedding ceremony is Kanyadaanam which means that right hand of bride is given to the groom's right hand and it was done by father and it's particularly like the bride is moving to the groom's home and she is completely out of her family and she will be visiting only for holidays and all and it's basically after that Kanyadaanam it's a very common tradition we can see in Hindu cultures and it's basically for devotion, love, empathy and every mixture of feelings can be seen in that particular occasion and it's like then after the Kanyadaanam only the bride and the bridegroom will rotate the one fire which was continuously lighting on the stage and they will rotate continuously and after that only the wedding ceremony is completed so it's only can be witnessed in South India I think which is very interesting actually we can see and at that particular event happens there is a mixture of emotion in brides and her father's mind and the time from her birth to her marriage ceremony will be seen in the mind of father and he is gradually giving her child to some other family and she

    Band 5-6

    India is the land of festivals and my favorite festival of all is Holi and I would like to consider it my favorite tradition as well because it makes everything look so beautiful and enchanting with colors flowing in the air and people just having fun, dancing on music, playing with water and just enjoying themselves. There are some bad things about this festival as well when people just throw water balloons on vehicles while traveling which is not safe at all. I remember when I was walking on the road and somebody randomly threw a water balloon at me and I had something very important to be and well, I was wet. That sounds wrong.

    Band 5

    Hi, so an interesting tradition in our country is that I feel oiling, hair oiling is a very interesting tradition, so even I follow that one, so oiling, oiling reduces stress, so every day, so I follow this practice every day, so by following this, my body balances, okay, the body temperature balances and then, so it reduces the hair fall and yeah, by applying oil every day, so it will give smooth and shiny hair, so yeah, that is the one thing, I just think that is the most traditional thing.
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