The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about memorable experiences, including special meals. “Describe a meal you had at a special occasion” is a common topic that candidates may encounter, particularly in Part 2 of the test. This article will provide valuable insights and sample answers to help you excel in this topic and improve your overall speaking performance.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, the examiner may ask general questions about food and special occasions. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:
- Do you enjoy cooking?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“Yes, I do enjoy cooking. I find it relaxing and creative. I often try new recipes on weekends when I have more free time.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“Absolutely! Cooking is not just a hobby for me; it’s a passion. I relish the opportunity to experiment with different cuisines and ingredients. There’s something incredibly satisfying about creating a delicious meal from scratch and sharing it with loved ones.”
- What’s your favorite type of cuisine?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“I’m really fond of Italian cuisine. I love pasta dishes and pizza. The flavors are always so rich and comforting.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“I have a particular affinity for Mediterranean cuisine, especially Greek and Turkish dishes. The combination of fresh ingredients, aromatic herbs, and healthy cooking methods really appeals to me. I find the balance of flavors in dishes like moussaka or kebabs to be absolutely exquisite.”
IELTS Speaking Test Food Questions
Part 2: Long Turn
In this section, you’ll be given a cue card with a topic to speak about for 1-2 minutes. Here’s a sample cue card related to our main topic:
Describe a meal you had at a special occasion
You should say:
- What the occasion was
- Where you had the meal
- Who you were with
- What food was served
- And explain why this meal was special to youSample Answer (Band 8-9)
“I’d like to describe a truly memorable meal I had during my sister’s wedding last summer. The celebration took place at a picturesque vineyard in the countryside, about an hour’s drive from our hometown.
The occasion brought together our entire extended family, along with close friends from various parts of the country. It was a joyous gathering of about 150 people, all dressed in their finest attire, ready to celebrate love and family.
The meal itself was a gastronomic delight. We started with an array of exquisite appetizers, including locally sourced cheeses, cured meats, and grilled vegetables. The main course was a choice between a succulent roast lamb with rosemary and garlic, or a delicate sea bass fillet with lemon butter sauce. Both were accompanied by roasted seasonal vegetables and creamy mashed potatoes. For dessert, we were treated to a decadent chocolate mousse cake and a selection of fresh berries.
What made this meal truly special wasn’t just the impeccable food, but the atmosphere and company. As we dined under the stars, with soft lighting from lanterns hanging from the vineyard trellises, there was a palpable sense of joy and connection. The sound of laughter and clinking glasses filled the air, and I felt incredibly grateful to be sharing such a momentous occasion with my loved ones.
The meal also perfectly complemented the rustic elegance of the venue, with many ingredients sourced from local farms. This added a wonderful sense of place to the experience, making it feel even more special and unique.
In essence, this meal was far more than just sustenance; it was a celebration of love, family, and the simple pleasure of breaking bread together. The combination of delectable food, beautiful surroundings, and cherished company made it an occasion I’ll never forget.”
Wedding Meal at a Vineyard
Follow-up Questions
- How often do you attend special occasions like this?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“I’d say I attend special occasions like weddings or big family gatherings about 2-3 times a year. They’re always enjoyable events.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“I’m fortunate to be part of a close-knit family and social circle, which means I have the opportunity to attend such momentous celebrations several times a year. Each one is unique and cherished in its own right, offering a chance to strengthen bonds and create lasting memories.”
- Do you think the food is the most important part of a special occasion?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“While food is important, I don’t think it’s the most crucial part. The people you’re with and the reason for the celebration matter more.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“While exceptional cuisine can certainly enhance the experience, I believe the essence of any special occasion lies in the shared moments and emotions. Food acts as a catalyst for conversation and connection, but it’s the company, the atmosphere, and the significance of the event that truly make it memorable. That said, a thoughtfully prepared meal can be a beautiful way to honor the occasion and those present.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In this section, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:
- How have eating habits changed in your country over the past few decades?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“Eating habits have changed quite a bit. People are eating out more often now, and there’s more interest in international cuisines. Fast food has also become more popular, especially among young people.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“The culinary landscape in my country has undergone a significant transformation in recent decades. We’ve witnessed a marked shift towards more diverse and globalized eating habits. There’s been a surge in the popularity of international cuisines, with restaurants offering dishes from around the world becoming commonplace even in smaller towns.
Simultaneously, there’s a growing awareness of health and nutrition, leading to increased demand for organic, locally-sourced produce and ‘clean eating’ options. Paradoxically, this coexists with the rise of fast food culture, particularly among the younger generation and in urban areas.
Another notable change is the advent of food delivery services and meal kit subscriptions, which have revolutionized how people approach home cooking and dining. These trends reflect broader societal changes, including busier lifestyles, increased global connectivity, and evolving attitudes towards food and health.”
- Do you think traditional cooking methods are being lost? Why or why not?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“Yes, I think some traditional cooking methods are being lost. People are busier now and often choose quick, convenient cooking methods. However, there are still those who value traditional techniques.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“The preservation of traditional cooking methods is indeed a complex issue in our rapidly evolving culinary landscape. On one hand, there’s an undeniable trend towards convenience and speed in food preparation, which has led to a decline in the use of time-intensive traditional methods. The fast-paced nature of modern life often leaves little room for slow-cooking techniques or labor-intensive preparations that were once staples of traditional cuisines.
However, I believe we’re also witnessing a countermovement that seeks to revive and celebrate these traditional methods. There’s a growing appreciation for ‘slow food’, artisanal production, and culinary heritage. Many chefs and food enthusiasts are actively working to document and preserve traditional techniques, recognizing their cultural significance and often superior flavors.
Moreover, the rise of food media, including cooking shows and social media platforms, has paradoxically both contributed to the loss of traditional methods and helped preserve them. While they often showcase quick and easy recipes, they also provide a platform for showcasing and teaching traditional techniques to a wide audience.
In essence, while some traditional cooking methods are at risk of being lost, there’s also a growing awareness of their value. The challenge lies in finding ways to integrate these time-honored techniques into modern lifestyles, ensuring they remain relevant and practiced in contemporary kitchens.”
Traditional Cooking Methods
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
To elevate your speaking performance, incorporate these sophisticated words and phrases:
Gastronomic delight /ˌgæstrəˈnɒmɪk dɪˈlaɪt/ (noun phrase): A meal or experience that is extremely pleasing to the taste.
Example: “The chef’s tasting menu was a gastronomic delight from start to finish.”Culinary landscape /ˈkʌlɪnəri ˈlændskeɪp/ (noun phrase): The overall food culture and trends in a particular place.
Example: “The influx of international restaurants has dramatically changed our city’s culinary landscape.”Palpable sense /ˈpælpəbl sens/ (adjective + noun): An atmosphere or feeling that is so strong that it seems almost physical.
Example: “There was a palpable sense of excitement in the air as we waited for the bride to arrive.”Momentous occasion /məʊˈmentəs əˈkeɪʒn/ (adjective + noun): An important or significant event.
Example: “Graduating from university was a momentous occasion for our entire family.”Exquisite /ɪkˈskwɪzɪt/ (adjective): Extremely beautiful, delicate, or carefully made.
Example: “The dessert was presented with exquisite attention to detail.”Decadent /ˈdekədənt/ (adjective): Luxuriously self-indulgent.
Example: “The chocolate lava cake was a decadent end to our meal.”
Using these words and phrases naturally in your responses will demonstrate a rich vocabulary and help you achieve a higher band score.
Examiner’s Advice
To excel in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when describing a special meal or occasion:
Practice storytelling: Develop your ability to narrate events coherently and engagingly. Focus on creating a clear structure with a beginning, middle, and end.
Expand your vocabulary: Learn and use a variety of descriptive words, especially those related to food, emotions, and sensory experiences.
Use idiomatic expressions: Incorporate relevant idioms and colloquialisms naturally to demonstrate fluency.
Provide specific details: Instead of general statements, offer concrete examples and vivid descriptions to make your account more compelling.
Show enthusiasm: Convey genuine interest and emotion when discussing your experiences. This engagement can positively impact your fluency and pronunciation scores.
Practice with timing: Ensure you can comfortably speak for the required duration without running out of content or rushing through your response.
Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is not just about what you say, but how you say it. Confidence, fluency, and the ability to express complex ideas clearly are all crucial factors in achieving a high band score.
describe a holiday you look forward to each year
By following these guidelines and incorporating the sample answers and vocabulary provided, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle questions about special meals and occasions in your IELTS Speaking test. Remember to practice regularly and seek feedback to continually improve your speaking skills.