A student practicing IELTS speaking about childhood favorite food
The topic of childhood favorite food frequently appears in IELTS Speaking tests, particularly in Part 1 and Part 2. This familiar subject allows candidates to demonstrate both their language skills and personal experiences effectively. Similar to describe a favorite meal you enjoy cooking, this topic requires detailed description and emotional connection.
Part 1: Common Questions and Sample Answers
Typical Questions:
- What kinds of food did you like as a child?
- Has your taste in food changed since childhood?
- Do you still eat the same foods now?
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“As a child, I was absolutely crazy about my grandmother’s homemade spring rolls. They were crispy on the outside yet perfectly tender inside. I still have a soft spot for them, although my palate has become more sophisticated over the years. Now I tend to appreciate more complex flavors, but those spring rolls remain close to my heart.”
Part 2: Cue Card
Task:
Describe a favorite food from your childhood
You should say:
- What the food was
- Who made it for you
- When you usually ate it
- And explain why you liked it so much
Student describing traditional childhood food during IELTS test
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to talk about my grandmother’s signature dish – traditional Vietnamese pho. Much like describe a traditional food from your country that you enjoy, this dish holds special memories.
My grandmother would meticulously prepare the broth by simmering beef bones for hours with aromatic spices like star anise and cinnamon. The tantalizing aroma would waft through our entire house every Sunday morning. She took immense pride in getting the flavors perfectly balanced.
We would gather around the dining table, and she would lovingly ladle the steaming broth over rice noodles. The dish was garnished with fresh herbs, bean sprouts, and lime wedges. What made it particularly special was how she would customize each bowl to everyone’s preferences.
I absolutely adored this dish because it represented more than just food – it was a symbol of family togetherness and love. The complex layers of flavors, from the rich, hearty broth to the tender meat and fresh herbs, created an unforgettable combination.”
Part 3: Discussion Questions
Q1: How have eating habits changed in your country over the years?
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“There has been a dramatic shift in eating habits, with people increasingly gravitating towards convenience foods. However, there’s also a growing awareness of traditional cuisine’s value, leading to a fascinating fusion of old and new culinary practices.”
Q2: Do you think traditional foods will disappear in the future?
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“While there’s certainly a risk of traditional recipes being diluted, I believe they’ll continue to evolve rather than disappear entirely. Many young people are actively preserving their culinary heritage, similar to how describe a local dish you love shows the enduring appeal of traditional cuisine.”
Key Vocabulary and Expressions
Food Description:
- Mouth-watering /maʊθ ˈwɔːtərɪŋ/ (adj): extremely appetizing
- Aromatic /ˌærəˈmætɪk/ (adj): having a pleasant and distinctive smell
- Hearty /ˈhɑːrti/ (adj): (of food) providing good nourishment
- Tantalizing /ˈtæntəlaɪzɪŋ/ (adj): tempting and attractive
Cooking Process:
- Simmer /ˈsɪmər/ (v): cook gently below boiling point
- Garnish /ˈɡɑːrnɪʃ/ (v): decorate food for serving
- Meticulously /məˈtɪkjələsli/ (adv): with extreme attention to detail
Examiner’s Tips:
- Use descriptive language to paint a vivid picture
- Include personal emotions and memories
- Structure your response with clear beginning, middle, and end
- Maintain natural flow while incorporating sophisticated vocabulary
- Practice describing various foods to build versatile vocabulary
Remember to practice regularly and record yourself speaking to improve fluency and identify areas for improvement.
