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IELTS Speaking Course

Topic 6: Holidays and Tradition (Part 3)

I. Theoretical Framework & Sample Answers

Review the standard operational answers with Viewpoints, Extensions, and alternative parameter Angles.

Q1: How do people value traditional holidays in your country?

[ Viewpoint 1 ] Honouring family members that have passed on is an activity that Chinese people engage in to celebrate traditional holidays. [ Extension ] For instance, we have a special holiday called Tomb Sweeping Day. We visit their graves to sweep and clean. Then, we offer food and tea to make sure their spirit is content. [ Viewpoint 2 ] In the same vein, Chinese people also pay their respects to historical figures who have made a long-lasting impact and shaped the world. [ Extension ] One such person is Qu Yuan. Chinese people commemorate him on May 5th of the Chinese lunar calendar by dragon boat racing and eating Zongzi.

More angles to answer:

Q2: What do people in China like to eat for special festivals?

[ Viewpoint 1 ] An all-time favourite dish for special festivals is dumplings. [ Extension ] Dumplings are popular year-round, but they are prevalent during the Lunar New Year. They are often moulded into the shape of a crescent moon, which symbolizes prosperity. [ Viewpoint 2 ] Mooncakes are eaten primarily during the Mid-Autumn Festival. [ Extension ] These traditional Chinese pastries are golden and flaky on the outside, while the inside is filled with a sweet bean-paste filling. Mooncakes are of significant importance to Chinese people as they represent family, peace, and harmony. They are also thought to bring good luck and prosperity.

More angles to answer:

Q3: Do you think we should have more public holidays?

[ Viewpoint ] We should not have more public holidays because holidays have lost their meaning. [ Extension 1 ] Holidays have become too materialistic. Priorities have become distorted because people are convinced that they must demonstrate their kindness and consideration by spending money. [ Extension 2 ] We must consider those who are alone as another reason we should abstain from adding more public holidays. Holidays can make some people feel lonely, especially if they do not have friends or a family.

More angles to answer:

Q4: Why do some people prefer to stay at home during holidays?

[ Viewpoint 1 ] People would rather stay at home during the holidays due to the presence of large crowds. [ Extension ] During holidays, long lines snake around the entrance of popular tourist destinations, airports, and train and bus stations. These crowds cause an increase in wait time and the possibility of a service or item being sold out. [ Viewpoint 2 ] Others prefer to stay at home to make homemade meals. [ Extension ] It is usually a memorable experience when family members gather in the kitchen to cook while chatting. Eating a meal at home together during the holidays is a tradition for many.

More angles to answer:

Q5: Why is it important to protect traditions?

[ Viewpoint 1 ] Traditions are a central part of who we are. They give us a sense of identity, so it is essential to protect them. [ Extension ] We feel that we are part of a group and part of something bigger by participating in traditions. Through traditions, we feel united with others, and we feel proud of who we are on an individual and a group level. [ Viewpoint 2 ] Traditions stave off cultural homogenization as a result of globalization. [ Extension ] It simultaneously contributes to the unity and uniqueness of its people.

More angles to answer:

Q6: Why do some people like to wear traditional clothes?

Traditional clothing signals a dedication to one's heritage. [ Viewpoint 1 ] People that like to wear such clothes are often proud of their cultural identity and customs. [ Extension ] By regularly wearing traditional clothes, they are telling the world that their country's culture is just as relevant as whatever is mainstream. [ Viewpoint 2 ] Another reason for wearing traditional clothes is to pass this love of culture onto the next generation. [ Extension ] It is difficult to convince the youth to be proud of their heritage if adults are not modelling this, which is why some do wear traditional clothing to work or important events.

More angles to answer:

Q7: What traditional handcrafts are popular in China?

[ Viewpoint 1 ] One of the most famous handicrafts in China is silk clothing. [ Extension ] Silk plays a significant role in Chinese history. It was once used as currency and sold to other countries, and it is where the name Silk Road originated. Nowadays, silk clothing has evolved to suit modern tastes. However, the silk of days past can be viewed at the China Silk Museum in Hangzhou. [ Viewpoint 2 ] Chinese fans are also a highly sought-after handicraft. [ Extension ] Beautiful scenes of nature are delicately painted on them. They can be made from a wide variety of materials, including feathers, paper, and silk.

More angles to answer:

Q8: Should the government provide financial support to promote traditional performance?

The government needs to provide the financial resources necessary to promote traditional performances. [ Viewpoint 1 ] By doing so, the government proves that it is dedicated to investing in its people. [ Extension ] Traditions unite a country's people, and unity is an impressive display of a nation's power. [ Viewpoint 2 ] Traditions also provide a sense of identity. [ Extension ] In today's global culture, young people may struggle to understand who they are. Traditional performances provide that sense of identity and belonging, which is crucial to the mental health of a country's youth. In addition, they make citizens feel unique and seen.

More angles to answer:

II. Assessment Tasks

Execute the requested practice entries. Automated analysis activates post-submission.

1. According to Q1, how do Chinese people commemorate the historical figure Qu Yuan?

2. Fill in the missing word from Q2: "Dumplings are popular year-round, but they are prevalent during the Lunar New Year. They are often moulded into the shape of a crescent moon, which symbolizes _______________."

3. True or False: According to Q3, the speaker argues that public holidays should be extended because modern priorities are entirely un-materialistic.

4. In Q5, what primary macro-threat is identified as a reason to protect traditions through preventing cultural homogenization?

5. Fill in the blank according to Q7: "One of the most famous handicrafts in China is silk clothing... it is where the name Silk _______________ originated."

6. According to Q8, why are traditional performances evaluated as critical to the mental health of a country's youth?

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