IELTS Speaking Test Preparation Tips and Strategies
Similar to describe a food market you visited in a different city, this topic frequently appears in IELTS Speaking tests and requires candidates to demonstrate their ability to discuss culinary interests and cultural appreciation.
Part 1: Introduction Questions
Common questions examiners ask:
- Do you enjoy trying new foods?
- What’s your favorite foreign cuisine?
- How often do you eat at restaurants?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I’m absolutely passionate about exploring different cuisines. I particularly gravitate towards Asian fusion dishes because they offer such an intriguing blend of flavors and cooking techniques. I try to dine out at least twice a month to broaden my culinary horizons.”
Part 2: Cue Card
Describe a dish from another country that you would like to try
You should say:
- What the dish is
- Which country it’s from
- How you learned about it
- Why you want to try it
Traditional Spanish Paella with Seafood and Saffron Rice
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I’ve been absolutely fascinated by Spanish paella, a legendary rice dish that originates from Valencia, Spain. I first came across this culinary masterpiece while watching a travel documentary about Mediterranean cuisine.
This iconic dish is meticulously prepared with saffron-infused rice, creating its distinctive golden hue. It’s typically garnished with an impressive array of seafood, including prawns, mussels, and calamari, along with chunks of chicken and chorizo, making it a true feast for the senses.
I became intrigued by this dish after describe a restaurant you recommend to friends introduced me to Spanish cuisine. What particularly appeals to me is how it embodies the essence of Spanish social dining culture, as it’s traditionally shared among family and friends.
The reason I’m so keen to experience this dish is its rich cultural heritage and the way it brings people together. Just as describe a favorite tradition in your family, paella represents more than just food – it’s a celebration of community and tradition.”
Sample Answer (Band 6-7):
“I want to try paella from Spain. I learned about it from TV shows and some friends who traveled to Spain. It’s a rice dish with seafood and meat. The color is yellow because they use saffron. I want to try it because it looks delicious and many people say it’s very good.”
Part 3: Discussion Questions
Q: How has globalization affected traditional cuisines?
Band 8-9 Response:
“Globalization has had a profound impact on traditional cuisines. While it has facilitated cultural exchange and made exotic ingredients more accessible, it has also posed challenges to preserving authentic cooking methods. However, this cross-cultural influence has sparked innovation in fusion cuisine, creating exciting new interpretations of classical dishes.”
Band 6-7 Response:
“I think globalization has changed how people cook traditional food. Now we can find ingredients from other countries easily, but sometimes the original recipes get changed. Some people like these changes, but others want to keep the traditional way.”
Key Vocabulary and Expressions
- Culinary heritage (n) /ˈkʌlɪnəri ˈherɪtɪdʒ/ – traditional food culture
- Gastronomic experience (n) /ˌgæstrəˈnɒmɪk/ – relating to eating and cooking
- To savor (v) /ˈseɪvər/ – to enjoy food slowly
- Authentic recipe (adj) /ɔːˈθentɪk/ – genuine, traditional method
- Time-honored tradition (adj) /taɪm ˈɒnəd/ – respected customs from the past
IELTS Speaking Test Success Strategies
Just as describe a skill you have improved recently, mastering these vocabulary items and expressions will significantly enhance your speaking performance.
Examiner’s Tips
- Practice describing dishes using sensory details
- Build a diverse culinary vocabulary
- Connect food descriptions to cultural contexts
- Use appropriate transitional phrases
- Share personal experiences when relevant
Like describe an experience that taught you something valuable, discussing foreign cuisine requires both technical knowledge and personal engagement.
