Cue Cards Samples with band 8 answers
Describe an interesting tradition or festival in your country - Cue Card # 751
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IELTS Speaking Part 2: IELTS Cue Card/ Candidate Task Card.
[The topic for your talk will be written on a card which the examiner will hand over to you. Read it carefully and then make some brief notes.]
Describe an interesting tradition or festival in your country.
You should say:
- what tradition it is
- how important it is
- what type of people follow and observe it
and explain how you feel about this tradition.
[Instruction: You will have to talk about the topic for one to two minutes. You have one minute to think about what you are going to say. You can make some notes to help you if you wish.]
Model Answer 1:
Japan, the country in which I was born and bred, is not only a country of thousands of small islands (more than 4000 of them in addition to 4 large main islands, to be more precise) but also a country of rich culture and many interesting traditions! Today, here, I would like to talk about one of those traditions which we, the Japanese people, just love to observe!
The beautiful tradition I am talking about is popularly known as “Toro Nagashi” or the “festival of floating lanterns”. Celebrated during summertime (in the middle of July or August), in the evening when the sky goes dark, the beauty of numerous floating lanterns along a river or lake mesmerises just about anybody and everybody.
Related to “Obon”, a 3-day period to honour all the departed souls, this unique tradition is observed by inscribing names, messages and drawings on the nicely-designed paper lanterns that are attached to a bamboo or wooded base. Then, of course, a candle is also placed inside the lantern before setting it to float alongside a river or lake. Often accompanied by music and fireworks, this festival gets even more colourful and interesting when the glowing and reflecting lights of thousands of lanterns drift alongside the boaters. Needless to say, it is an important tradition for us.
By the way, the tradition of “Toro Nagashi”, essentially a Buddhist festival, is observed all over Japan by people from all walks of life. Here, it is worth mentioning that the lantern denotes a special symbol in Japanese culture. It represents love, brightness, and protection from evil.
Well, I get a rather special and certain sense of peace inside my heart about observing this tradition, mainly because it allows us to remember our forefathers and carry our love and gratitude to them. It also makes me feel happy as it brings all our families and friends together for a noble cause while also enjoying some quality time at the same time.
Model Answer 2:
Introduction:
One of the fascinating traditions in my country that captures the essence of community and celebration is the festival of Diwali. Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, holds immense cultural and religious significance in India, and as a proud Indian, I would like to talk about it.
What tradition it is:
Diwali is a Hindu festival that symbolises the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. It usually spans five days of festivities, with the main celebration occurring on the third day. The festival is marked by various customs, including the lighting of oil lamps, decorating homes with colourful rangoli (artistic patterns made on the ground), exchanging gifts, and bursting with fireworks.
How important it is:
The festival is hugely popular and immensely important for us. It begins with cleaning and decorating homes to welcome the goddess Lakshmi, who is believed to bring prosperity and good fortune. Therefore, it has both cultural and religious importance. Then, families come together to perform puja (prayers), offering sweets and other delicacies to deities. The lighting of diyas (oil lamps) not only adds a vibrant glow to households but also symbolises the dispelling of darkness and ignorance. Community spirit is at its peak during Diwali, as people exchange sweets and gifts with neighbours and friends. The night sky is adorned with colourful fireworks, creating a mesmerising spectacle.
What type of people follow and observe it:
While Diwali is rooted in Hindu traditions, it transcends religious boundaries in India. People of various faiths and communities actively participate in the festivities, making it a truly inclusive celebration.
And explain how you feel about this tradition:
As someone who has grown up celebrating Diwali, the festival holds a special place in my heart. The vibrant atmosphere, the warmth of family gatherings, and the spirit of giving make Diwali a time of immense joy. It's not just a religious tradition; it's a cultural phenomenon that brings people together, fostering a sense of unity and shared happiness.
Model Answer 3:
Introduction:
Canada, known for its rich cultural diversity, boasts a multitude of traditions that reflect the mosaic of its people. One captivating Canadian tradition that stands out is the celebration of "Canada Day," a day dedicated to commemorating the country's birth. For this topic, I would like to talk about it.
What tradition it is:
Canada Day, observed on July 1st, marks the anniversary of the confederation of Canada. This patriotic celebration is akin to Independence Day in many other countries including the United States.
How important it is:
The festivities on Canada Day are as varied as the country itself, and this has great importance to the citizens of Canada. Cities and towns across Canada host parades, concerts, and fireworks, bringing people together regardless of their religion, ethnicity and language. The iconic Parliament Hill in Ottawa becomes the focal point for grand ceremonies, including concerts featuring Canadian artists and a spectacular display of fireworks over the Ottawa River. The symbolic red and white colors of the Canadian flag dominate the landscape.
What type of people follow and observe it:
Canada Day transcends cultural and ethnic boundaries, as Canadians of all backgrounds enthusiastically participate in the celebrations. New immigrants join hands with those whose families have been in Canada for generations, creating a shared sense of belonging and unity.
And explain how you feel about this tradition:
As someone who has experienced Canada Day in the heart of downtown Toronto, I can attest to the infectious enthusiasm that permeates the air. The diverse expressions of Canadian identity, from multicultural food festival to the melodious tunes echoing through the streets, create an atmosphere of joy and inclusion.
Canada Day, for me, is a testament to the strength of unity in diversity. It's a day when the nation reflects on its journey, appreciates its cultural tapestry, and embraces the values that bind Canadians together.
Sample Answer 4:
Thank you so much for giving me this opportunity to talk about an interesting tradition from my country, Bhutan. I find this tradition both interesting and deeply meaningful, and it’s the celebration of Tshechu, a religious and cultural festival that holds a special place in Bhutanese society.
Tshechu is a festival celebrated annually in Bhutan, and it holds immense cultural and religious significance. It is a religious event held in honour of Guru Rinpoche, who is believed to have brought Buddhism to Bhutan in the 8th century. Tshechu is considered a time for Bhutanese people to come together and renew their commitment to their faith, while also celebrating their cultural heritage.
The importance of Tshechu cannot be overstated. For Bhutanese people, it is not only a time for religious observance but also an opportunity for the entire community to come together and celebrate the unique Bhutanese way of life. The festival serves to reinforce the country's strong Buddhist traditions, and it’s a time when Bhutanese people don their best traditional clothing and gather at monasteries or dzongs to witness the sacred dances, known as Cham.
In Bhutan, Tshechu is followed and observed by people of all ages, from young children to the elderly. The festival is particularly significant in rural areas where it plays a central role in community life. It’s a time when families reunite, and people come from all over the country to participate.
Personally, I feel that Tshechu is a beautiful and essential tradition. It is not just about the vibrant dances and celebrations, but about the sense of unity and belonging it fosters among people. It’s a reminder of our shared values, faith, and heritage. I have always felt a deep connection to this festival, and each year, I look forward to the opportunity to take part in the celebrations, not just as a spectator, but as someone who is part of a larger cultural and religious community.
Idea generation for this Candidate task card/ Cue card topic:
Traditions and festivals play an important role in shaping the cultural identity of a country. They bring people together, preserve history, and provide a sense of belonging. Here are 10 ideas for describing an interesting tradition and/or festivals in your country:
1. Diwali (Festival of Lights):
Diwali is one of the most important and widely celebrated traditions in my country. It is a Hindu festival that celebrates the victory of light over darkness. People decorate their homes with oil lamps, burst fireworks, and exchange sweets. It is followed by people from all walks of life, regardless of their socioeconomic background. I feel very connected to this tradition as it brings my family and me together, filling our home with warmth, joy, and positivity.
2. Chinese New Year:
Chinese New Year is a significant tradition celebrated by millions in my country, especially by the Chinese community. It marks the beginning of the lunar new year and is observed with family reunions, feasts, dragon dances, and the giving of red envelopes filled with money. The tradition is deeply rooted in the Chinese culture and is followed by people of Chinese descent. I admire this tradition because it emphasizes family bonding and the importance of celebrating the start of a new year with hope and prosperity.
3. Eid al-Fitr:
Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan and is one of the most celebrated traditions in my country. After fasting for a month, people come together for communal prayers, feasts, and exchanging gifts. It is a tradition followed by Muslims across the country. I feel a deep sense of gratitude and community during this time, as it brings people together and encourages generosity and charity towards others.
4. Thanksgiving:
Thanksgiving is a widely observed tradition in my country, where families gather to express gratitude for the harvest and blessings of the past year. It is celebrated by people from all backgrounds, with a special focus on family bonding, feasting, and giving thanks. I personally find this tradition meaningful because it reminds us to appreciate what we have and to spend quality time with loved ones.
5. Holi (Festival of Colors):
Holi is an exciting and vibrant tradition celebrated by Hindus in my country. It marks the arrival of spring and is celebrated by throwing coloured powders at each other, dancing, and enjoying sweets. The tradition is widely observed by people of all ages and backgrounds. I absolutely love Holi because it’s a fun, joyful celebration that breaks down social barriers and brings people together in a spirit of unity and happiness.
6. Weddings with Traditional Customs:
In my country, weddings are elaborate affairs that involve many traditional rituals and customs, such as exchanging vows, music, dances, and a feast. These traditions are important, especially in the case of cultural communities, where maintaining tradition is central to the ceremony. I feel very connected to this tradition because it allows me to experience the deep cultural significance of love and commitment between two individuals.
7. Harvest Festivals:
Many communities in my country celebrate harvest festivals, especially in rural areas. These festivals are about giving thanks for a successful harvest and include dancing, singing, and communal meals. People from the farming communities, as well as others, observe this tradition. I find it a wonderful tradition because it highlights the hard work of farmers and brings communities together to celebrate their achievements.
8. Lantern Festival:
The Lantern Festival is an ancient tradition that marks the end of the Chinese New Year celebrations. It is observed by people in my country with colourful lantern displays, dragon dances, and delicious food. It is especially followed by the Chinese community. I feel that this tradition is beautiful because it signifies the importance of hope, renewal, and togetherness, as people gather to celebrate the new year under the light of lanterns.
9. Songkran (Thai New Year):
Songkran is the traditional Thai New Year celebration, and it is widely observed in my country. The tradition involves water fights, cleansing rituals, and family gatherings. People from all ages participate in the water fights, symbolizing the washing away of bad luck and welcoming a fresh start. I love this tradition because it’s a fun, energetic celebration that brings people together while also promoting the idea of renewal and good fortune.
10. Christmas:
Christmas is a widely observed tradition in my country, and it’s celebrated by people of all faiths. It is a time of giving, and families come together to exchange gifts, enjoy festive meals, and decorate their homes with lights and ornaments. I enjoy this tradition because it brings a sense of warmth, love, and joy to the holiday season. It’s a time to reflect on family values and show appreciation for the people in our lives.
Vocabulary for this Candidate task card/ Cue card topic:
When describing an interesting tradition or festival, using rich and evocative vocabulary can help you convey its cultural or religious significance, its unique practices, and your personal connection to it. Thoughtful language choices will enable you to articulate the tradition's importance and your feelings about it, making your response more engaging and nuanced. Here are some relevant words and phrases:
Ritual: – A religious or solemn ceremony consisting of a series of actions performed according to a prescribed order.
Example: It's an annual ritual deeply embedded in our cultural fabric.
Heritage: – Valued objects and qualities such as cultural traditions, unspoiled countryside, and historic buildings that have been passed down from previous generations.
Example: This tradition is a vital part of our national heritage.
Cultural cornerstone: – A fundamental and indispensable element of a culture.
Example: This festival serves as a cultural cornerstone, uniting communities.
Intergenerational bond: – A connection or relationship that spans across different generations.
Example: The tradition strengthens intergenerational bonds within families.
Fosters a sense of unity: – Encourages a feeling of togetherness and solidarity.
Example: The communal celebrations foster a strong sense of unity among participants.
Passed down orally: – Transmitted from one generation to another through spoken words rather than writing.
Example: Many of the stories associated with the tradition were passed down orally.
Vibrant celebration: – A lively and energetic observance or festival.
Example: It culminates in a vibrant celebration with music and dancing.
Preserving cultural identity: – Protecting and maintaining the distinct characteristics of a group or society.
Example: This tradition plays a crucial role in preserving our cultural identity.
A source of national pride: – Something that makes the people of a country feel proud.
Example: The unique art form associated with it is a great source of national pride.
Connect with ancestral roots: – Feel a link to one's family history and past generations.
Example: Participating in it helps me connect with my ancestral roots.
Integral part of daily life: – An essential and fundamental component of everyday existence.
Example: For many, this tradition is an integral part of their daily life and routine.
If you prepare for the topic "Describe an interesting tradition or festival in your country", you should be able to talk about the following topics as well:
1) Describe a festival that is important in your country.
2) Describe an interesting tradition in your country.
3) Describe a celebration that you recently enjoyed.
4) Describe a national festival that is observed in your country.
5) Describe a public holiday in your country.
6) Describe a special event that takes place in your city or town.
7) Describe an important day that you celebrate in your country.
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