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Celebrations
Lesson
18
Level 4
IELTS Speaking Test Preperation
Lesson Target
In this lesson, you’ll talk about how people spend special occasions, describe family traditions, and explain why these moments are important. You’ll also practice using time expressions and expressing emotions.
Warm-Up
Discuss the warm-up words with your tutor.
event
tradition
celebrate
Vocabulary
Practice saying these words with your tutor. If you don’t know one, ask your tutor to explain it.
Word
Definition
Definition
anniversary
noun
take a break
phrase
relaxed
adjective
memory
noun
moment
noun
wedding
noun
occasion
noun
celebrate
verb
stressed
adjective
Use these words in sentences with your tutor to check that you fully understand their meaning and how to use them correctly.
Useful Phrases
My favorite celebration is...
We celebrate by...
It’s special because...
One tradition we follow is...
Celebrations help us feel...
Response Structure
Begin with a clear answer or opinion. Then support it with details or examples using who, what, when, where, why, or how.
1
Give your main idea directly and briefly.
My favorite celebration is...
2
Add details or examples to explain your main idea.
For example, we usually...
3
If you have a second idea, repeat steps 1 and 2.
Another reason I enjoy it is...
Practice 1
Read the dialogue with your tutor. Then, work together to analyze the student's responses. Try to understand the speaker’s purpose and find useful words or phrases you can use in your own answers. Finally, practice responding to the same questions with your tutor.
Examiner
What is your favorite occasion or celebration?
Lucas
My favorite celebration is my wedding anniversary. Every year, my wife and I go out for a nice dinner at a quiet restaurant. We enjoy talking about our memories and sometimes give each other small gifts. I like this day because it brings us closer and reminds us of many good times together.
Examine the Response
-
Why is this a good response?
-
What's the main idea?
-
Key details: Find the who, what, where, when, why, or how in the response.
-
Which words or phrases can you use from these responses?
Examiner
How do you usually celebrate it?
Lucas
We usually celebrate our wedding anniversary with a dinner. My husband and I choose a nice place where we can relax and enjoy good food. My wife loves Italian food. After dinner, we sometimes take a walk or watch a movie together. It’s a simple way to enjoy our special day.
Examiner
Why are celebrations important in life?
Lucas
Celebrations are important because they give people a chance to relax and enjoy time with others. When people come together, they can talk, share food, and make good memories. It also helps people take a break from work or school. These moments make life more enjoyable and meaningful.
Practice 2
Read the dialogue with your tutor. Each sentence is missing either the main idea or a key detail. Use the dialogue to fill in the missing parts and complete the sentences.
Examiner
What do people usually do when they celebrate a special occasion?
Lucas
People usually spend time with family and friends during special occasions.
________________________________________. (fill in the supporting details)
Examiner
How can special occasions help people feel less stressed?
Lucas
________________________________________. (fill in the main idea)
This makes them feel more relaxed and happy. People can forget about work or school and enjoy a nice break.
Examiner
Why are special occasions important for families?
Lucas
Special occasions are important for families because they bring everyone together.
________________________________________. (fill in the supporting details)
Practice 3
Answer each question clearly and completely. Start with the main idea, then support it with key details or examples.
Examiner
Should people work during important events?
Are traditional celebrations still important today?
How are celebrations special in your country?
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