The IELTS Speaking test often includes topics related to everyday life, including questions about people we know and their skills. One such topic that frequently appears is describing someone who excels in cooking. This subject allows candidates to showcase their vocabulary, fluency, and ability to provide detailed descriptions. Let’s explore how to effectively answer questions related to this topic and achieve a high band score in your IELTS Speaking test.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about cooking and food preferences. Here are some possible questions and sample answers:
- Do you enjoy cooking?
- How often do you cook?
- What’s your favorite dish to prepare?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“I absolutely love cooking! It’s a passion of mine that I indulge in at least three or four times a week. My favorite dish to prepare is probably a hearty lasagna. There’s something deeply satisfying about layering the pasta, sauce, and cheese, and then watching it come out of the oven all bubbling and golden. The aroma that fills the kitchen is simply irresistible.”
Part 2: Long Turn
Cue Card
Describe a person you know who is good at cooking.
You should say:
- Who this person is
- What kind of food they cook
- How you know about their cooking skills
- And explain why you think they are good at cooking
Sample Answer (Band 6-7):
“I’d like to talk about my aunt Sarah, who is an excellent cook. She’s been passionate about cooking for as long as I can remember. Sarah specializes in Italian cuisine, and her homemade pasta dishes are simply delicious. I’ve had the pleasure of tasting her food at family gatherings and special occasions over the years.
What makes Sarah such a good cook is her attention to detail and her willingness to experiment with flavors. She always uses fresh ingredients and takes the time to prepare everything from scratch. Her pasta sauce, for example, simmers for hours, allowing all the flavors to blend perfectly.
I think Sarah’s cooking skills come from years of practice and her genuine love for food. She’s always eager to learn new techniques and try out different recipes. Whenever we visit her, the house is filled with wonderful aromas, and we know we’re in for a treat.
In my opinion, Sarah’s talent lies in her ability to bring people together through her cooking. Her meals are not just about the food; they’re about creating memorable experiences for family and friends. That’s what makes her truly exceptional in the kitchen.”
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d be delighted to share with you about my aunt Sarah, who is an absolute culinary virtuoso. She’s been honing her craft in the kitchen for decades, and her passion for gastronomy is truly infectious.
Sarah’s speciality lies in Italian cuisine, but her repertoire extends far beyond that. Her homemade pasta dishes are nothing short of extraordinary, with flavors that transport you straight to the heart of Tuscany. I’ve had the immense privilege of savoring her creations at countless family gatherings and special occasions over the years.
What sets Sarah apart as an exceptional cook is her meticulous attention to detail and her fearless approach to experimenting with flavors. She’s a stickler for using only the freshest, highest-quality ingredients, and she takes great pride in preparing everything from scratch. Her pasta sauce, for instance, is a labor of love that simmers for hours, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify to perfection.
I believe Sarah’s culinary prowess stems from her unwavering dedication to her craft and her genuine passion for food. She’s constantly seeking to expand her knowledge, eagerly absorbing new techniques and voraciously devouring cookbooks and cooking shows. Whenever we visit her home, we’re enveloped by a symphony of tantalizing aromas, a clear indication that we’re in for an unforgettable gastronomic experience.
In my estimation, Sarah’s true talent lies in her ability to foster connections through her cooking. Her meals are far more than just sustenance; they’re a catalyst for creating cherished memories with family and friends. It’s this unique blend of skill, passion, and the ability to bring people together that makes her truly exceptional in the culinary world.”
Follow-up Questions
- How did your aunt develop her cooking skills?
- Do you think cooking is an important skill for everyone to have?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“My aunt Sarah developed her culinary prowess through a combination of formal training and relentless practice. She initially honed her skills by attending cooking classes and workshops, but she truly refined her craft through years of experimentation and dedication in her own kitchen. She’s also an avid collector of cookbooks and religiously watches cooking shows, always eager to glean new techniques and ideas.
As for the importance of cooking skills, I firmly believe they are invaluable for everyone. Cooking is not just about sustenance; it’s a life skill that promotes independence, creativity, and healthier living. Being able to prepare your own meals gives you control over your nutrition and can be incredibly cost-effective. Moreover, cooking can be a therapeutic and rewarding hobby, offering a creative outlet and a way to express care for others. In our increasingly fast-paced world, the ability to cook a wholesome meal from scratch is becoming something of a lost art, which makes it all the more crucial to preserve and cultivate these skills.”
describe a recent conversation that made you laugh
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Examiner: Let’s talk more about cooking and its role in society. Do you think traditional cooking methods are being lost in modern society?
Sample answer (Band 6-7):
“Yes, I think traditional cooking methods are becoming less common in modern society. Many people are too busy to cook from scratch and rely on convenience foods. Fast food and ready meals are popular because they’re quick and easy. However, some people are trying to preserve traditional cooking methods by sharing recipes online or teaching cooking classes.”
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I believe there’s a dichotomy at play when it comes to traditional cooking methods in modern society. On one hand, we’re witnessing a gradual erosion of time-honored culinary techniques as our lives become increasingly fast-paced and convenience-driven. The proliferation of fast food chains, ready meals, and food delivery services has undoubtedly contributed to this decline.
However, there’s also a counter-movement gaining momentum. We’re seeing a resurgence of interest in traditional cooking methods, driven by factors such as health consciousness, environmental concerns, and a desire for authentic experiences. This has led to a revival of farmers’ markets, artisanal food production, and cooking shows that showcase heritage recipes.
Moreover, the digital age has paradoxically become a tool for preserving culinary traditions. Social media platforms and food blogs have become repositories of knowledge, allowing people to share and learn traditional cooking methods from around the world. Cooking classes and workshops focusing on traditional techniques are also gaining popularity.
So while there’s certainly a risk of losing some traditional cooking methods, I believe there’s also a growing appreciation for these skills. The challenge lies in striking a balance between embracing modern conveniences and preserving our culinary heritage.”
describe an exciting experience you have had recently
Examiner: How has globalization affected food culture in your country?
Sample answer (Band 6-7):
“Globalization has had a big impact on food culture in my country. We now have access to a wider variety of international cuisines and ingredients. Many foreign restaurants have opened, offering dishes from all over the world. This has made people more open to trying new foods. However, it has also led to some traditional dishes becoming less popular, especially among younger people.”
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“Globalization has had a profound and multifaceted impact on the food culture in my country. It’s been a double-edged sword, bringing both enrichment and challenges to our culinary landscape.
On the positive side, globalization has dramatically expanded our gastronomic horizons. We’ve seen an influx of international cuisines, ingredients, and cooking techniques that were once foreign to our palates. This has led to a culinary renaissance of sorts, with fusion cuisines emerging and chefs experimenting with novel flavor combinations. The proliferation of ethnic restaurants and specialty food stores has made it possible to embark on a culinary world tour without leaving our city.
Moreover, this exposure to global flavors has fostered greater cultural understanding and appreciation. Food has become a bridge between cultures, allowing people to experience and connect with different traditions through their taste buds.
However, this culinary globalization isn’t without its drawbacks. There’s a growing concern about the homogenization of food culture, with global chains and standardized products potentially overshadowing local traditions. Some traditional dishes and ingredients are at risk of being relegated to the sidelines, particularly among younger generations who may be more drawn to international flavors.
Additionally, the increased demand for exotic ingredients has raised questions about sustainability and food miles. There’s a delicate balance to be struck between enjoying global cuisine and supporting local food systems.
In response to these challenges, we’re seeing a resurgence of interest in local and traditional cuisines. Many chefs and food enthusiasts are working to revive and reinvent traditional recipes, often with a modern twist. This fusion of global influences and local traditions is creating a dynamic and evolving food culture that respects its roots while embracing innovation.
Overall, while globalization has undeniably transformed our food culture, I believe it has ultimately enriched our culinary landscape, encouraging us to appreciate both the global and the local in our food choices.”
describe a meal you had in a restaurant recently
Key Vocabulary and Phrases
To achieve a high band score in your IELTS Speaking test, it’s crucial to use a range of vocabulary and complex sentence structures. Here are some key terms and phrases related to cooking and food that can help elevate your responses:
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Culinary virtuoso /ˈkʌlɪnəri vɜːtʃuˈəʊsəʊ/ (noun): An expert in cooking
Example: “My aunt is a true culinary virtuoso, able to create masterpieces in the kitchen.” -
Gastronomic /ˌɡæstrəˈnɒmɪk/ (adjective): Related to the art of cooking and eating good food
Example: “The restaurant offers a gastronomic journey through Mediterranean cuisine.” -
To hone one’s skills /həʊn/ (phrase): To improve or perfect a skill over time
Example: “She’s been honing her baking skills for years, and it really shows in her pastries.” -
Repertoire /ˈrepətwɑː/ (noun): The range of skills or dishes that a person can prepare
Example: “His culinary repertoire includes dishes from all over Asia.” -
Meticulous /məˈtɪkjələs/ (adjective): Showing great attention to detail
Example: “Her meticulous approach to measuring ingredients ensures perfect results every time.” -
To savor /ˈseɪvə/ (verb): To enjoy food or an experience slowly and thoroughly
Example: “We savored every bite of the exquisite meal.” -
Tantalizing /ˈtæntəlaɪzɪŋ/ (adjective): Tempting or exciting
Example: “The tantalizing aroma of freshly baked bread filled the air.” -
Fusion cuisine /ˈfjuːʒən kwɪˈziːn/ (noun): A style of cooking that combines elements from different culinary traditions
Example: “The restaurant specializes in Asian-Mexican fusion cuisine, creating unique flavor combinations.”
describe a new hobby you want to start
Examiner’s Advice
To excel in the IELTS Speaking test when discussing cooking or describing someone skilled in cooking, consider the following tips:
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Use descriptive language: Paint a vivid picture with your words. Instead of saying “The food was good,” try “The flavors were rich and complex, tantalizing my taste buds.”
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Incorporate idiomatic expressions: Use phrases like “a feast for the eyes” or “to have a lot on one’s plate” to demonstrate your command of English expressions.
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Vary your sentence structure: Mix short and long sentences, and use different grammatical structures to showcase your language skills.
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Show enthusiasm: Use your tone of voice and facial expressions to convey your interest in the topic. This can help you appear more fluent and confident.
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Provide specific examples: When describing someone’s cooking skills, give concrete examples of dishes they prepare or techniques they use.
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Link your ideas: Use connecting words and phrases to make your speech flow smoothly from one point to the next.
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Practice regularly: Familiarize yourself with cooking-related vocabulary and practice describing foods and cooking processes in English.
Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is not just about what you say, but how you say it. Aim for fluency, accuracy, and a range of vocabulary and structures to achieve the highest possible band score.
By following these guidelines and incorporating the sample answers and vocabulary provided, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle any question about cooking or describing a skilled cook in your IELTS Speaking test. Remember to practice regularly and stay confident in your abilities. Good luck with your test!