The IELTS Speaking test is a crucial part of the IELTS exam, and it requires candidates to demonstrate their spoken English proficiency in a variety of settings. One common type of question in the exam is to “Describe a person who is good at cooking.” This question may appear in various parts of the IELTS Speaking test, particularly in Part 2 of the test, known as the Long Turn.
As an experienced IELTS Speaking Examiner, I can provide you with a detailed guide on how to tackle this kind of question with confidence. We will explore possible questions, example answers, and the key elements that can help you achieve a high band score.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
Possible Questions
- Do you enjoy cooking?
- Who usually does the cooking in your family?
- What kind of foods do you like to cook?
Sample Answer for “Do you enjoy cooking?”
Examiner: Do you enjoy cooking?
Candidate: Absolutely! I find cooking to be a very therapeutic activity. It allows me to express my creativity and also experiment with different ingredients and flavors. Plus, it’s very rewarding to see my family and friends enjoy the meals I prepare.
Analysis: Notice the use of strong adjectives like “therapeutic” and “rewarding,” as well as expressions such as “express my creativity” and “experiment with different ingredients.” These help to create a richer, more engaging response.
Part 2: Long Turn
Cue Card
Describe a person who is good at cooking. You should say:
- Who this person is
- How you know this person
- What kinds of food this person cooks
- And explain why this person is good at cooking
Sample Answer
Candidate: I would like to talk about my grandmother, who is an exceptional cook. I have known her all my life, and some of my earliest memories involve being in the kitchen with her, watching her work her magic. She specializes in traditional Vietnamese cuisine, and some of her signature dishes include Pho, Banh Mi, and various types of spring rolls.
What makes my grandmother so talented is not just her extensive knowledge of recipes but also her meticulous attention to detail. She insists on using the freshest ingredients and always balances flavors perfectly. Cooking for her is an art form, and she takes immense pride in every dish she prepares. Her food is always beautifully presented, making every meal a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
Many people in our community praise her culinary skills, and she’s even been featured in local food magazines. I think her passion, combined with years of experience, truly sets her apart as a remarkable cook.
Analysis: This response is well-structured and provides detailed information using advanced vocabulary. Phrases like “meticulous attention to detail,” “feast for the eyes,” and “beautifully presented” are impressive and can help achieve a high band score.
Follow-Up Questions
Examiner: Does this person influence your way of cooking?
Candidate: Absolutely! My grandmother has greatly influenced my cooking style. Watching her taught me the importance of patience and precision in the kitchen. I’ve also inherited her commitment to using fresh ingredients and presenting food attractively.
Examiner: Do you believe cooking is a skill that can be learned, or is it a talent some people are born with?
Candidate: I believe cooking is a combination of both. While some people may have a natural flair for flavors and techniques, anyone can become a proficient cook with enough practice and dedication.
Part 3: Two-Way Discussion
Sample Questions and Answers
Examiner: How important is it for children to learn how to cook?
Candidate: I think it’s crucial for children to learn how to cook. Not only does it teach them important life skills, but it also encourages healthy eating habits. Cooking can also be a fun and educational activity, allowing children to learn about different cultures and cuisines.
Examiner: In your opinion, what are the essential skills a good cook must have?
Candidate: A good cook must have a strong sense of taste and creativity, excellent time management skills, and a deep understanding of ingredients and techniques. Patience and the ability to handle pressure are also essential, especially when preparing complex or multiple dishes at once.
Useful Vocabulary and Phrases
- Meticulous /məˈtɪkjələs/: Showing great attention to detail; very careful and precise.
- Example: “Her meticulous approach to cooking ensures that every meal is perfectly seasoned.”
- Culinary /ˈkʌlɪnəri/: Relating to cooking or the kitchen.
- Example: “He attended a culinary school to refine his cooking skills.”
- Flair /flɛər/: A special or instinctive aptitude or ability for doing something well.
- Example: “She has a natural flair for combining flavors.”
Tips for IELTS Speaking Success
- Practice Regularly: The more you practice, the more comfortable you will become.
- Expand Your Vocabulary: Learn and use advanced vocabulary and phrases.
- Stay Calm and Confident: Confidence can significantly improve your performance.
- Structure Your Answers: A well-structured response is easier to follow.
- Use Natural, Fluent Speech: Avoid memorized responses and aim for natural fluency.
Conclusion
To excel in the IELTS Speaking test, especially when describing a person who is good at cooking, focus on providing detailed, well-structured answers enriched with advanced vocabulary. Practice regularly, expand your vocabulary, and stay calm during the test. By following these tips and making use of the sample answers provided, you’ll be well on your way to achieving a high band score.
Grandmother cooking traditional Vietnamese food
For further practice, you might find these topics useful: Describe a time when you were happy, Describe a special meal you had.
By mastering such responses, you’ll not only be prepared for the IELTS exam but also improve your overall spoken English proficiency.