Describing a food that reminds you of childhood is a common topic in IELTS Speaking tests. This theme allows candidates to showcase their ability to discuss personal experiences, emotions, and cultural aspects. Let’s explore how to effectively answer questions related to this topic and achieve a high band score.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about food and childhood memories. Here are some possible questions:
- What’s your favorite childhood food?
- Do you still enjoy the same foods you liked as a child?
- How has your taste in food changed since you were young?
Let’s look at a sample answer for the first question:
Examiner: What’s your favorite childhood food?
Candidate (Band 7-8 answer): My favorite childhood food is definitely homemade chicken soup. My grandmother used to make it every Sunday, and the aroma would fill the entire house. It was comforting and delicious, with tender chunks of chicken and fresh vegetables. I have such fond memories associated with that dish.
describe a food that reminds you of home
Part 2: Long Turn
Here’s a sample cue card for this topic:
Describe a food that reminds you of your childhood
You should say:
- What the food is
- When you first ate it
- How often you ate it as a child
- And explain why this food reminds you of your childhood
Sample Answer (Band 6-7)
The food that reminds me of my childhood is homemade apple pie. I first tasted it when I was around 5 years old at my grandma’s house. She would bake it every autumn when apples were in season. The sweet smell of cinnamon and baked apples would fill the kitchen.
As a child, I ate this pie maybe once or twice a month during autumn. It became a tradition in our family to have apple pie for dessert on Sundays. I always looked forward to helping my grandma prepare the apples and sprinkle cinnamon sugar on top of the pie.
This food reminds me of my childhood because it brings back memories of spending time with my grandma. The taste and smell instantly transport me back to her cozy kitchen. It represents family gatherings, the change of seasons, and the simple joys of childhood.
Sample Answer (Band 8-9)
The food that instantly transports me back to my childhood is my grandmother’s homemade apple pie. I vividly recall first savoring this delectable treat when I was around five years old during a family gathering at her quaint countryside home.
This culinary masterpiece became a cherished tradition in our family, gracing our table approximately twice a month during the bountiful autumn season when apples were at their peak. The anticipation of this dessert would build up throughout the week, culminating in the Sunday feast where it took center stage.
The reason this particular dish evokes such powerful nostalgia is multifaceted. Firstly, the intoxicating aroma of cinnamon and baked apples that would waft through the house is forever etched in my memory. It signaled the arrival of fall and the cozy evenings spent indoors with family. Moreover, the process of creation was just as significant as the end product. I would eagerly assist my grandmother, learning the art of peeling and slicing apples, and feeling a sense of pride and accomplishment when the pie emerged golden and fragrant from the oven.
This apple pie symbolizes more than just a dessert; it represents familial bonds, the passing down of traditions, and the simple joys of childhood. The tactile experience of the flaky crust combined with the sweet-tart filling creates a sensory explosion that instantly catapults me back in time. It’s a tangible link to my past, evoking memories of laughter, love, and the security of childhood.
Follow-up Questions
- How has your taste in food changed since childhood?
- Do you think children today enjoy the same foods you did as a child?
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
My palate has certainly evolved since childhood. While I still appreciate the comfort foods of my youth, I’ve developed a more sophisticated taste for complex flavors and international cuisines. I’m now more adventurous in trying new dishes and have a greater appreciation for nutrition. However, the emotional connection to childhood foods remains strong, often serving as a source of nostalgia and comfort.
Regarding children’s food preferences today, I believe there’s been a significant shift. With globalization and the prevalence of fast food, children are exposed to a wider variety of flavors earlier. However, there’s also a growing awareness of health and nutrition, leading to more emphasis on wholesome, home-cooked meals. While some classic childhood favorites endure, the overall landscape of children’s food has diversified considerably.
describe a traditional dish you enjoy
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In this section, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some possible questions and sample answers:
Examiner: How do you think childhood food memories influence adult eating habits?
Candidate (Band 7-8 answer): Childhood food memories can have a significant impact on adult eating habits. Often, the foods we enjoyed as children become our comfort foods in adulthood. These memories are tied to emotional experiences, which can influence our food choices later in life. For example, someone who grew up eating healthy, home-cooked meals might be more likely to prioritize this type of eating as an adult. Conversely, if someone associates junk food with happy childhood memories, they might turn to these foods when seeking comfort.
Examiner: Do you think traditional foods are losing popularity among younger generations? Why or why not?
Candidate (Band 8-9 answer): The popularity of traditional foods among younger generations is a complex issue. On one hand, there’s a growing trend towards global cuisine and fast food, which might overshadow traditional dishes. The fast-paced nature of modern life often leaves little time for preparing elaborate traditional meals. Additionally, as younger people move away from their hometowns, they may have less exposure to traditional cooking.
However, I believe there’s also a countermovement emerging. Many young people are becoming more interested in their cultural heritage, including traditional foods. This is partly driven by a desire for authenticity and connection to their roots. Social media has also played a role in reviving interest in traditional cuisine, with many food bloggers and influencers showcasing these dishes.
Moreover, the farm-to-table movement and increased focus on sustainability have led to a renewed appreciation for local, traditional ingredients and cooking methods. In many cases, traditional foods are being reinvented or presented in modern ways to appeal to younger palates.
So while traditional foods may face challenges, I don’t believe they’re losing popularity entirely. Instead, they’re often being rediscovered and reinterpreted by younger generations.
describe a traditional dish in your culture that you want to learn to cook
Key Vocabulary and Phrases
To achieve a high band score, use a variety of sophisticated vocabulary and phrases. Here are some examples:
-
Evoke nostalgia /ɪˈvəʊk nɒˈstældʒə/ (phrase): To bring back sentimental feelings or memories
Example: The smell of freshly baked bread evokes nostalgia for my childhood home. -
Culinary heritage /ˈkʌlɪnəri ˈherɪtɪdʒ/ (noun phrase): The traditional dishes and cooking methods of a particular culture
Example: Preserving our culinary heritage is important for maintaining cultural identity. -
Comfort food /ˈkʌmfət fuːd/ (noun): Food that provides consolation or a feeling of well-being
Example: Macaroni and cheese is the ultimate comfort food for many Americans. -
Palate /ˈpælət/ (noun): A person’s appreciation of taste and flavor
Example: Traveling has helped me develop a more sophisticated palate. -
Gastronomic journey /ˌgæstrəˈnɒmɪk ˈdʒɜːni/ (noun phrase): An exploration of different foods and cuisines
Example: My trip to Italy was a gastronomic journey through the country’s diverse regional dishes.
describe a season you enjoy and the reasons why
Examiner’s Advice
To excel in the IELTS Speaking test when discussing childhood food memories:
- Use descriptive language to bring your memories to life. Engage all senses in your descriptions.
- Show a range of vocabulary related to food, cooking, and emotions.
- Speak fluently and coherently, using appropriate linking words and phrases.
- Demonstrate your ability to discuss both personal experiences and broader societal trends.
- Practice speaking about various childhood memories and foods to improve your comfort with the topic.
Remember, the key to success is not just in what you say, but how you say it. Confidence, fluency, and the ability to elaborate on your ideas will help you achieve a high band score.
describe a food you disliked as a child but like now
By following these guidelines and incorporating sophisticated vocabulary and complex sentence structures, you’ll be well-prepared to discuss childhood food memories in your IELTS Speaking test. Good luck with your preparation!