Cue Cards Samples with band 8 answers
Describe a public holiday in your country - Cue Card # 805
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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 a public holiday in your country that people celebrate.
You should say:
- what public holiday it is
- how people celebrate this public holiday
- what you do during this holiday
and explain how important this public holiday is to people in your country.
[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:
People in my country, Thailand, celebrate a number of public holidays throughout the entire year. Today, I would like to describe one of those holidays and tell you how people usually like to celebrate it.
The name of this public holiday or celebration is popularly known as “Songkran”. Now, although many people in Thailand and outside of it like to associate this holiday or festival with “religion”, it is actually celebrated to mark the beginning of a new lunar year in Thailand.
Here, it is worth mentioning that the word “Songkran” comes from a phrase in the “Sanskrit” language which literally means “passage of the sun”. In other words, this holiday’s main focus is to “move forward”. Kicking off around mid-April, this particular holiday usually lasts for three days, even though the festivities can start early and end later in some cities.
Now, as for how it is celebrated or what people do to enjoy this public holiday, it actually starts with a “sprinkle or splash of water”. Yes, water plays a vital role in this festival, speaking symbolically, it washes away the previous year so that people can start anew for the next year. During this holiday, they clean their houses, schools, offices, and other public spaces. They’re also joined by their other family members who have moved away and returned for the holiday to spend time with their loved ones. Many families wake up early during Songkran and visit Buddhist temples as well, where they bring offerings such as food and listen to monks as they preach.
As far as I am concerned, I also like to enjoy this public holiday by doing the same things, like sprinkling water over the hands of the elders to show them respect and visiting the places of my relatives and friends.
But, no matter how we enjoy this public holiday, it is really important to the people in my country, primarily because it unites the family in a loving bond. Besides, it also rejuvenates the minds and moods of our people to start fresh, after forgetting the past.
Model Answer 2:
What public holiday it is:
Thank you very much for this nice topic. In fact, in my country - Vietnam, we have many public holidays throughout the year, but one of the most important and widely celebrated holidays is "Tet", also known as Lunar New Year. Tet is the biggest holiday of the year in Vietnam, and it usually takes place between late January and mid-February.
How people celebrate this public holiday:
Tet is celebrated for three days, but in reality, the holiday lasts for almost a week. People decorate their homes with colourful flowers such as peach blossoms, kumquat trees, and chrysanthemums to welcome the new year. There is also a tradition of cleaning the house to sweep away any bad luck from the previous year. Moreover, people prepare special foods like Banh Chung, a traditional cake made of sticky rice and pork belly, and other delicious dishes for the Tet feast.
What you do during this holiday:
During Tet, people often visit their relatives and friends to wish them a happy new year and give them lucky money in red envelopes. I also follow this tradition, and I love it so much. I also decorate our house and help my mom and sister to clean it. And finally, I enjoy the traditional dishes that my mom cooks on this day.
And explain how important this public holiday is to people in your country:
Tet is an extremely important holiday in Vietnam as it is a time for people to reunite with their families and express their gratitude and respect for their ancestors. It's a time to forget about the past and look forward to a brighter future. The atmosphere during Tet is filled with joy, love, and happiness. The holiday is also a time for people to take a break from work and recharge for the upcoming year.
Sample Answer 3:
Introduction:
Thank you for the time and opportunity you have given me to talk about a public holiday in my country that people celebrate. I'd like to give you some details about this holiday, tell you what I do during the holiday celebration, how it is celebrated in my country, and finally, why it is important for people in my country.
What public holiday it is:
Well, it is one of the most important public holidays in India, and it is called "Diwali". It is also known as the Festival of Lights. It typically falls between October and November, and it's celebrated for five days.
How people celebrate this public holiday:
During Diwali, people light up their houses and streets with candles, lanterns, and colourful lights. They also burst firecrackers, exchange gifts and sweets with each other, and perform prayer rituals, to honour the goddess of wealth, Lakshmi.
On the first day of Diwali, people clean and decorate their homes and offices to welcome the goddess Lakshmi. The second day is known as Choti Diwali, which is the day before the main festival. On the third day, which is the most important day of Diwali, people wear new clothes, light up lamps, perform Lakshmi puja, and exchange gifts and sweets. The fourth day is known as Govardhan Puja, which is celebrated to honour Lord Krishna, and the fifth day is called Bhai Dooj, which celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters.
What you do during this holiday:
During Diwali, I usually visit my relatives and friends, and we exchange gifts and sweets. I also enjoy watching the colourful fireworks and the illuminated streets. Moreover, I take part in the puja ceremony and help my family decorate our house with lights and candles.
And explain how important this public holiday is to people in your country:
Diwali is a joyous festival that brings people together, and it's an important occasion for people in India to celebrate their culture and traditions. It is a significant public holiday in India that is celebrated with enthusiasm and happiness. It's a time to rejoice, share, and spread positivity, and it's a testament to the rich cultural heritage of India.
Sample Answer 4:
One of the most significant and widely celebrated public holidays in Indonesia is Eid-ul-Fitr, or Lebaran as it's commonly known. This marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan, a period of fasting, prayer, and reflection for Muslims. The celebration typically depends on the Islamic lunar calendar, and it is a time of immense joy and communal spirit. I am so glad to be able to describe this public holiday that people in our country widely celebrate.
The way Indonesians celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr is deeply rooted in tradition and emphasises togetherness. Leading up to the holiday, people often engage in "mudik," a mass exodus from cities back to their hometowns to reunite with family. On the morning of Eid, Muslims gather for special congregational prayers in mosques and open fields, dressed in their finest, often new, clothes. Following the prayers, families visit each other, seeking forgiveness for any wrongdoings over the past year – a tradition known as "halal bi halal." Homes are open to guests, and elaborate feasts are prepared, featuring traditional dishes like rendang, opor ayam, and various festive cookies and cakes. Children often receive "salam tempel," small amounts of money given by older relatives. The atmosphere is one of joyous celebration, forgiveness, and strengthened family ties.
During Eid-ul-Fitr, my own celebrations typically revolve around these core traditions. I usually travel back to my hometown to be with my parents and siblings. The morning begins with the special Eid prayers, followed by the emotional moment of seeking forgiveness from our elders. The rest of the day is spent visiting relatives, enjoying the delicious food prepared by my mother, and catching up with family members I might not have seen for a while.
Eid-ul-Fitr holds immense importance for Indonesians, the majority of whom are Muslim. It's not just a religious holiday; it's a significant cultural event that underscores the values of family, community, and forgiveness. It provides a crucial opportunity for people to reconnect with their roots, strengthen social bonds, and experience a shared sense of identity and belonging. The spirit of generosity and compassion that permeates the celebration is also deeply valued. Beyond the religious significance of completing Ramadan, Eid-ul-Fitr is a time of national unity and collective joy, making it one of the most anticipated and cherished public holidays in the country.
Idea generation for this Candidate task card/ Cue card topic:
Public holidays are an essential part of any culture, and each country celebrates its holidays in unique ways. Below are some ideas to help you generate a response based on different public holidays celebrated across the world. These ideas can be tailored to your personal experience or knowledge of your country's traditions.
1. New Year's Day (Canada):
New Year's Day is celebrated in Canada on the 1st of January, marking the start of the new year. Canadians celebrate with fireworks, family gatherings, and festive events. In larger cities like Toronto or Vancouver, people participate in parades or go to outdoor ice-skating rinks. During this holiday, many people make New Year's resolutions. It's significant as it symbolises a fresh start, and it's a time for family bonding and socialising. For me, it's a day to reflect on the past year and make plans for the future.
2. Lunar New Year (Vietnam):
Lunar New Year, or Tết, is one of the most significant holidays in Vietnam. It marks the arrival of spring and the beginning of a new lunar year. The celebrations begin with a family reunion dinner, followed by offerings to ancestors and visits to relatives and friends. I love the festive atmosphere with red lanterns, traditional foods like bánh chưng (rice cakes), and the giving of lucky money (li xi) to children. It's important because it represents a time of renewal, family togetherness, and respect for ancestors.
3. Independence Day (USA):
Independence Day is celebrated in the United States on the 4th of July, commemorating the adoption of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. The day is marked with fireworks displays, barbecues, parades, and concerts. People often celebrate with family and friends at picnics or outdoor events. The importance of the holiday lies in its representation of the country's freedom and independence. It's a patriotic occasion, and for many, it is a day to honor the sacrifices made by those who fought for the nation's independence.
4. Eid al-Fitr (Pakistan):
Eid al-Fitr is one of the most significant holidays for Muslims, and it's celebrated at the end of Ramadan. After a month of fasting, the holiday is marked by prayers, feasts, and giving to charity. Families get together for a large meal and exchange gifts. It's a joyous occasion, with everyone wearing new clothes and visiting relatives. For me, Eid represents a sense of unity and gratitude, and the significance lies in both the religious aspect and the opportunity to connect with family and friends.
5. Diwali (India):
Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is one of the most celebrated holidays in India. It symbolises the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. During this holiday, families decorate their homes with oil lamps (diyas), burst fireworks, and offer prayers to Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth. The entire country comes alive with vibrant colors, music, and delicious sweets. For me, Diwali is an occasion to connect with my roots, share happiness, and celebrate with loved ones. It's significant as it symbolises positivity and the triumph of good.
6. Christmas (United Kingdom):
Christmas is celebrated on the 25th of December across the United Kingdom. It's a religious holiday commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ. People decorate their homes with Christmas trees, lights, and wreaths, and exchange gifts with family and friends. The holiday season is also filled with festive meals, including turkey, stuffing, and mince pies. I enjoy the Christmas spirit, the charity events, and spending time with family. It's an important holiday because it encourages compassion, generosity, and reflection on what is important in life.
7. National Day (China):
China celebrates its National Day on October 1st, marking the founding of the People's Republic of China in 1949. The holiday is celebrated with parades, fireworks, and gatherings. On this day, people honour the achievements of their country and show national pride. During this holiday, families often travel, and some participate in cultural activities. I appreciate how National Day brings the nation together in celebration of its history, culture, and progress. It’s important because it instils a sense of unity and national identity.
8. Bastille Day (France):
Bastille Day is celebrated on July 14th in France, commemorating the storming of the Bastille prison during the French Revolution in 1789. The day is marked by a military parade, fireworks, parties, and concerts. It's a celebration of French history, culture, and national unity. I love how the French people come together to remember their revolutionary past. For me, Bastille Day is a symbol of freedom and the importance of standing up for one's rights.
9. Songkran (Thailand):
Songkran, celebrated in April, marks the Thai New Year. The most famous aspect of Songkran is the water fight, where people splash water on each other in the streets. It's a joyful and refreshing time, with people visiting family, paying respects to elders, and making offerings at temples. The holiday represents renewal and cleansing. For me, Songkran is a fun way to connect with people and celebrate the beginning of the new year.
10. Labour Day (Australia):
Labour Day in Australia is celebrated on different dates depending on the state, but it generally honours the contributions of workers and the labour movement. The holiday is observed with various community events, parades, and festivities. It's an important day for workers to reflect on their rights and the advancements made in labour conditions. I appreciate Labour Day for recognising the efforts of workers, and it’s an opportunity to acknowledge the importance of fairness and equality in the workplace.
Vocabulary for this Candidate task card/ cue card topic:
When describing a public holiday in your country, using vocabulary that captures the cultural significance, the traditions, and the way people observe it can create an informative and engaging response. Focusing on the historical context and the unifying aspects of the holiday will help explain its importance. Here are some useful words and phrases with example sentences:
A significant national holiday – A public holiday that is very important to the country.
Example: Independence Day is a significant national holiday in our country.
Commemorates a historical event – Remembers and honours an important past occurrence.
Example: This public holiday commemorates a pivotal historical event.
Deeply rooted in our culture – Having origins that are strongly connected to the traditions and customs of the country.
Example: The celebration is deeply rooted in our cultural heritage.
A time for reflection and remembrance – A period when people think seriously about the past and honour those who are remembered.
Example: For many, it's a time for reflection and remembrance.
Marked by public gatherings – Characterised by people coming together in public spaces.
Example: The day is often marked by public gatherings and parades.
A sense of national pride – A feeling of satisfaction and respect for one's country.
Example: The holiday evokes a strong sense of national pride.
Strengthens community bonds – Helps to create stronger connections between people in the community.
Example: It's a time that strengthens community bonds as people celebrate together.
A day of cultural expression – A time when people can show their cultural identity through various means.
Example: The holiday is also a day of cultural expression through music and dance.
Reinforces national unity – Helps to create a stronger feeling of togetherness and common identity among the people of the country.
Example: Celebrating this day reinforces national unity.
A time to spend with loved ones – An opportunity to be with family and friends.
Example: It's primarily a time to spend quality time with loved ones.
Integral to our national identity – Forming an essential part of what it means to be a citizen of the country.
Example: This public holiday is integral to our national identity.
If you prepare for the topic "Describe a public holiday in your country that people celebrate", you should be able to talk about the following topics as well:
1) Describe a place that you have visited recently.
2) Describe a celebration that you recently celebrated.
3) Describe a national day in your country.
4) Describe a festival that is important in your country.
5) Describe a national festival in your country.
6) Describe an important day that you celebrate in your country.
7) Describe a holiday or vacation that you celebrated with a group of other people.
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