As an IELTS instructor with over 20 years of experience, I’ve encountered countless students who find the Speaking section particularly daunting. Many worry about encountering unexpected questions, and “What is it that you like about cooking?” is certainly one that can throw you off guard. But fear not! This seemingly simple question offers a fantastic opportunity to showcase your vocabulary and fluency in English.
Understanding the Question’s Intent
The examiner isn’t expecting a master chef’s dissertation on culinary techniques. They want to assess:
- Your ability to articulate personal preferences: Can you express what you enjoy and why?
- Vocabulary range: Do you know words related to food, cooking methods, and flavors?
- Fluency and coherence: Can you speak naturally, connect your ideas, and elaborate on your points?
Crafting Your Response
Here’s a step-by-step approach to tackle this question effectively:
1. Start with a Clear Statement
Begin by directly answering the question. This demonstrates confidence and clarity. For instance:
- “What I really enjoy about cooking is…”
- “The thing I love most about cooking is…”
2. Provide Specific Reasons
Don’t just say you like it – explain why! Think about:
- The process: Do you enjoy the creativity of experimenting with ingredients, the methodical nature of following a recipe, or the satisfaction of seeing a dish come together?
- The result: Is it about the delicious flavors, the pleasure of sharing a meal with loved ones, or the sense of accomplishment you feel?
- Personal connections: Does cooking remind you of your family, your culture, or a special memory?
Examples:
- “I find it incredibly relaxing to chop vegetables and focus on the rhythm of cooking after a long day.”
- “There’s something magical about combining simple ingredients and creating something truly flavorful.”
- “Cooking reminds me of my grandmother and the wonderful dishes she used to make.”
3. Use Vivid Vocabulary
This is your chance to shine! Instead of basic words, opt for more descriptive language:
- Instead of “good,” try: delicious, mouthwatering, aromatic, flavorful, savory, scrumptious
- Instead of “cook,” try: sauté, simmer, roast, bake, grill, whip up
- Instead of “like,” try: love, adore, am passionate about, find enjoyable, get a kick out of
4. Expand with Examples
Illustrate your points with concrete examples to make your response more engaging and memorable:
- “For example, I recently tried a new recipe for Thai green curry, and the blend of spicy, sweet, and savory flavors was incredible.”
- “One of my favorite things to cook is my grandmother’s lasagna recipe. It always brings back fond memories of family gatherings.”
5. Keep it Natural and Concise
While it’s important to demonstrate your vocabulary and fluency, avoid sounding robotic or memorized. Speak naturally, using connecting words and phrases to create a coherent and engaging response. Remember, a concise and well-structured answer is better than a rambling one.
Example Response
“What I truly enjoy about cooking is the creativity it allows. I love experimenting with different flavor combinations and trying out new recipes. For instance, I recently made a Moroccan tagine with lamb, apricots, and almonds. The blend of sweet, savory, and slightly exotic flavors was absolutely delicious. It’s so rewarding to create something unique and share it with friends and family.”
The Joy of Cooking
Tips for Success
- Practice regularly: The more you practice speaking about your hobbies and interests, the more confident and fluent you’ll become.
- Record yourself: Listening to yourself speak can help you identify areas for improvement in terms of pronunciation, vocabulary, and fluency.
- Don’t be afraid to be yourself: Share your genuine passions and let your personality shine through!
Remember, the IELTS Speaking test is not about being perfect but about effectively communicating your ideas. By following these tips and practicing regularly, you’ll be well on your way to achieving your desired score. Good luck!