As an IELTS instructor with over two decades of experience, I’ve encountered countless questions about the Speaking test. One that pops up quite frequently, particularly at the beginning of Part 1, is “Which food do you like eating?”
While it might seem deceptively simple, this question offers a fantastic opportunity to showcase your vocabulary and fluency. Let’s delve into how you can impress the examiner and boost your score.
Deconstructing the Question: Why it Matters
This question isn’t just about listing your favorite dishes. It’s about demonstrating:
- Vocabulary Range: Can you move beyond basic terms like “good” and “tasty” to utilize more descriptive language?
- Fluency and Coherence: Can you deliver your answer smoothly and logically?
- Grammar Accuracy: Are you using the correct tenses and grammatical structures?
Crafting Your Response: A Recipe for Success
1. Go Beyond the Obvious:
Instead of simply saying “I like pizza,” try:
- Specificity: “I’m a big fan of thin-crust pizza with fresh mozzarella and basil.”
- Reasoning: “I’m particularly fond of Vietnamese cuisine because of its fresh herbs and delicate flavors.”
- Anecdote (if time permits): “My grandmother’s lasagna is an absolute delight. She makes it with a secret recipe passed down through generations.”
2. Embrace Descriptive Language:
Instead of “tasty,” consider:
- Flavor Profile: savory, sweet, spicy, tangy, sour, bitter, aromatic
- Texture: creamy, crunchy, chewy, crispy, juicy, tender
- Cooking Methods: grilled, roasted, steamed, sauteéd, baked
3. Structure for Clarity:
A well-structured answer is easy to follow. Here’s a simple framework:
- Direct Answer: State your preferred food.
- Elaboration: Provide reasons for your choice, using descriptive language.
- Example or Anecdote: Illustrate your point with a specific experience or detail.
Example:
“One food I thoroughly enjoy is sushi. I find the combination of fresh fish, perfectly seasoned rice, and the tangy flavor of pickled ginger absolutely irresistible. I recently tried a new sushi restaurant that served a salmon avocado roll with a spicy mayo drizzle – it was absolutely divine!”
sushi-plate|Sushi Plate|A plate of sushi with salmon, avocado, and spicy mayo drizzle.
Practice Makes Perfect: Sample IELTS Questions
- What kind of food did you enjoy eating as a child?
- Do you prefer eating at home or in restaurants?
- Is there a particular food that reminds you of a special occasion?
Final Tips for Exam Day:
- Relax and Be Yourself: Authenticity shines through.
- Don’t Memorize: Focus on developing a range of vocabulary and structures.
- Practice Speaking Aloud: This helps build fluency and confidence.
Remember, the IELTS Speaking test is a conversation, not an interrogation. By showcasing your language skills and engaging with the questions authentically, you’ll be well on your way to achieving your desired score. Good luck!
