All posts by Jomon P John

An Unusual Food

Question 17: Describe an unusual food you’ve tried. You should say:

      – What is the food, and where did you try it?

      – How did you feel about tasting it?

      – What are the ingredients, and how is it prepared?

      – Would you try it again?

Sample answer by Lifestyle Training Centre

One of the most unusual foods I’ve ever tried was fried grasshopper. I had the opportunity to taste this unconventional delicacy during a visit to Nagaland, my wife’s hometown in Northeast India. It was an experience that left me with a mix of initial disgust and later intrigue.

Grasshoppers are typically consumed by the local community only during the rice harvesting season. They are considered a seasonal treat, as consuming them at other times can be potentially dangerous due to their susceptibility to pesticides and other toxins. The villagers have a unique method of catching these creatures. They venture out into the fields at night with torches, which attract the grasshoppers, and then they skillfully catch them.

The grasshoppers are cleaned and prepared for cooking by removing their legs and wings. They are then seasoned and marinated before being fried to a crispy texture. The thought of eating insects was initially off-putting, and I was quite disgusted at the sight of these creatures. However, my curiosity got the better of me, and I decided to give it a try.

Upon my first bite, I was surprised by the intriguing taste. The fried grasshoppers had a delightful crunchiness and a unique blend of flavors from the seasonings. It was unlike anything I had ever tried before, and I found myself wanting to have more. The locals in Nagaland enjoyed these snacks, and their enthusiasm was infectious.

While I may not have been entirely comfortable with the idea of eating insects, the experience broadened my culinary horizons and gave me a deeper appreciation for the diversity of food cultures around the world. It taught me that what may seem unusual or even unappealing at first glance can turn out to be a surprisingly delightful gastronomic adventure.

If the opportunity arises in the future, I would certainly be open to trying fried grasshoppers again. It’s a unique and memorable food experience from Nagaland, my wife’s place, that I wouldn’t mind revisiting.

A Historical Event

Question 16: Describe a historical event you find significant. You should say:

      – What was the event, and when did it occur?

      – What were the key details and consequences?

      – Why does this event interest you?

      – How has it shaped the world today?

Sample answer by Lifestyle Training Centre

A historical event that I find immensely significant is the Indian independence movement, which culminated in India gaining its independence from British colonial rule. This pivotal event occurred in the mid-20th century and has had profound consequences not only for India but for the world at large.

The Indian independence movement reached its zenith on August 15, 1947, when India finally achieved its long-awaited freedom. This event marked the end of nearly two centuries of British colonial rule in India. The struggle for independence was marked by various key details, including non-violent resistance led by figures like Mahatma Gandhi and the tireless efforts of countless individuals who believed in the cause.

The consequences of Indian independence were monumental. India became a sovereign nation, free to govern itself and determine its destiny. The event inspired other nations in their quests for freedom and self-determination. It showed the power of non-violent civil disobedience as a force for change and influenced other notable leaders and movements, including the American civil rights movement led by Martin Luther King Jr.

The Indian independence movement is of particular interest to me because it exemplifies the indomitable human spirit and the belief in justice and freedom. The stories of those who sacrificed and persevered, despite daunting odds, are incredibly inspiring. The movement’s commitment to non-violence as a means of achieving change has left an enduring legacy in the world.

In today’s world, the Indian independence movement has shaped the political landscape. India is now the world’s largest democracy, and the principles of democracy and freedom continue to be of paramount importance. The movement has left an indelible mark on the collective consciousness of those who strive for justice and equality, and it serves as a reminder of the power of unity and determination in the face of adversity.

An Inspirational Person

Question 15: Describe someone who has inspired you. You should say:

      – Who is this person, and how did you come to know them?

      – What qualities or actions about them are inspiring?

      – How have they influenced your life?

      – Have you ever met or communicated with them?

IELTS Speaking task 2- A famous person

Model answer by Lifestyle Training Centre

I’ve read, learned, and heard about many distinguished individuals who have done valiant and admirable things in their lives. Among these, Mahatma Gandhi’s life story particularly captivates me. Gandhi is celebrated for his pivotal role in Indian politics, especially in the monumental struggle to overthrow the British colonisers from Indian soil.

I first learned about Gandhi through history lessons in school and later through various books, documentaries, and films that detailed his life and contributions. His name is often cited among a distinguished few global leaders who have made an indelible impact on society and the world through peaceful means.

What I admire most about Gandhi, among his extraordinary qualities and unparalleled achievements, is his unwavering dedication to non-violence even in the face of brutal oppression. Gandhi’s ability to mobilise millions without wielding a sword or pulling a trigger, advocating instead for peaceful resistance and civil disobedience, was both remarkable and inspiring. He embodied and practiced love, compassion, and tolerance, principles that have left an indelible mark worldwide. His teachings on simplicity, self-reliance, and humility continue to resonate deeply with people around the world.

Gandhi’s non-violent and humble lifestyle has had a profound impact on me, illuminating my path and urging me to eschew violence and pride. I am confident that his legacy will continue to inspire and enlighten many more lives in the years to come. If only people, societies, and even countries endeavour to embody just a fraction of the values and principles Gandhi exhibited, the world would undoubtedly be a better place.

List of vocabulary used:

  1. Distinguished: /dɪˈstɪŋɡwɪʃt/ – Recognized for excellence or achievement.
  2. Valiant: /ˈvæliənt/ – Possessing or showing courage or determination.
  3. Admirable: /ˈædmərəbl/ – Deserving respect and approval.
  4. Captivates: /ˈkæptɪˌveɪts/ – Attracts and holds the interest and attention of.
  5. Celebrated: /ˈsɛlɪbreɪtɪd/ – Widely known and praised.
  6. Pivotal: /ˈpɪvətl/ – Of crucial importance in relation to the development or success of something.
  7. Monumental: /ˌmɒnjʊˈmɛntl/ – Great in importance, extent, or size.
  8. Overthrow: /ˌəʊvəˈθrəʊ/ – Remove forcibly from power.
  9. Colonizers: /ˈkɒlənaɪzəz/ – People or countries that establish political control over another country or area.
  10. Indelible: /ɪnˈdel.ə.bəl/ – Making marks that cannot be removed; unforgettable.
  11. Non-violence: /nɒn-ˈvaɪələns/ – The practice of advocating one’s own or others’ rights without physical aggression.
  12. Oppression: /əˈprɛʃ(ə)n/ – Prolonged cruel or unjust treatment or control.
  13. Mobilize: /ˈməʊbɪlʌɪz/ – Prepare and organize (troops or people) for active service.
  14. Wielding: /wiːldɪŋ/ – Holding and using (a weapon or tool).
  15. Advocating: /ˈadvəkeɪtɪŋ/ – Publicly recommending or supporting.
  16. Resistance: /rɪˈzɪst(ə)ns/ – The refusal to accept or comply with something.
  17. Civil disobedience: /ˈsɪv(ə)l ˌdɪsəˈbiːdiəns/ – The refusal to obey certain laws or governmental demands for the purpose of influencing legislation or government policy.
  18. Embodied: /ɪmˈbɒdɪd/ – Represented in physical form; personified.
  19. Compassion: /kəmˈpæʃ(ə)n/ – Sympathetic pity and concern for the sufferings or misfortunes of others.
  20. Tolerance: /ˈtɒlərəns/ – The ability or willingness to tolerate something, particularly opinions or behavior that one does not necessarily agree with.
  21. Simplicity: /sɪmˈplɪsɪti/ – The quality or condition of being easy to understand or do.
  22. Self-reliance: /ˌsɛlf rɪˈlaɪəns/ – Reliance on one’s own powers and resources rather than those of others.
  23. Humility: /hjuːˈmɪlɪti/ – A modest or low view of one’s own importance; humbleness.
  24. Resonate: /ˈrɛzəneɪt/ – Evoke or suggest images, memories, and emotions.
  25. Profoundly: /prəˈfaʊndli/ – To a great depth psychologically.
  26. Illuminated: /ɪˈljuːmɪneɪtɪd/ – Light up; clarify or explain.
  27. Eschew: /ɪsˈtʃuː/- Deliberately avoid using; abstain from.
  28. Conflict resolution: /ˈkɒnflɪkt ˌrɛzəˈluːʃ(ə)n/ – The process of resolving a dispute or a conflict by providing each side’s needs and adequately addressing their interests.
  29. Empathy: /ˈɛmpəθi/ – The ability to understand and share the feelings of another.
  30. Principles: /ˈprɪnsɪp(ə)lz/ – Fundamental truths or propositions that serve as the foundation for a system of belief or behavior.
  31. Legacy: /ˈlɛɡəsi/ – Something transmitted by or received from an ancestor or predecessor or from the past.
  32. Enlighten: /ɪnˈlaɪt(ə)n/ – Give (someone) greater knowledge and understanding about a subject or situation.
  33. Purpose: /ˈpɜːpəs/ – The reason for which something is done or created or for which something exists.
  34. Integrity: /ɪnˈtɛɡrɪti/ – The quality of being honest and having strong moral principles.
  35. Service: /ˈsəːvɪs/ – The action of helping or doing work for someone.

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A Favorite Movie

Question 14: Describe your favorite movie. You should say:

      – What is the title and who directed it?

      – When did you watch it?

      – What is the plot, and why do you like it?

      – Have you recommended it to others?

Sample answer by Lifestyle Training Centre

One of my all-time favorite movies is “Avatar,” directed by James Cameron. I had the pleasure of watching this visually stunning and emotionally captivating film a few years ago, and the experience left a lasting impact on me.

“Avatar” is set in the mid-22nd century on the fictional planet of Pandora. The storyline revolves around the conflict between the indigenous Na’vi people and a human corporation seeking to exploit the planet’s resources. The protagonist, Jake Sully, becomes torn between loyalty to his own kind and his growing connection with the Na’vi and their way of life. The film seamlessly blends science fiction, action, and a poignant ecological message, making it a truly unique and unforgettable cinematic experience.

What sets “Avatar” apart for me is the groundbreaking use of 3D technology and visual effects. When I first watched it in 3D, it felt like I had stepped into the lush and vibrant world of Pandora. The attention to detail, the vibrant colors, and the immersive nature of the 3D experience were awe-inspiring. It was not just a movie; it was a journey into another world.

The film’s message about environmental preservation and the consequences of unchecked corporate greed resonated deeply with me. It serves as a stark reminder of the impact of human actions on the planet and the importance of respecting and protecting the natural world.

“Avatar” is a film that I’ve enthusiastically recommended to many of my friends and family. Its combination of groundbreaking visuals, a thought-provoking storyline, and powerful emotional connections makes it a must-watch for anyone who appreciates cinematic artistry and storytelling.

In essence, “Avatar” is not just a movie; it’s an immersive experience that transports you to a different realm and leaves you with a profound message about the importance of our connection to nature. It’s a film that I will cherish and continue to recommend to others for years to come.

A Recent Achievement

Question 13: Describe an achievement you’re proud of from the past year. You should say:

      – What was the achievement?

      – How did you accomplish it?

      – Why is it significant to you?

      – How has it impacted your life?

Sample answer by Lifestyle Training Centre

In the past year, one of my most significant achievements was successfully completing my master’s degree in English. This accomplishment holds a special place in my heart for various reasons, and the journey to attain it was both challenging and rewarding.

The achievement itself was obtaining a master’s degree in English, a goal that I had long aspired to achieve. It was a testament to my dedication and commitment to personal and academic growth. To accomplish this feat, I had to balance a full-time job in my business with the rigorous demands of academic coursework. The path was not without its challenges, and I often found myself juggling work responsibilities, classes, and assignments. It required meticulous time management and unwavering determination.

The significance of this achievement to me is multifaceted. Firstly, it represents a culmination of years of academic pursuit and a deep-seated passion for the English language and literature. It symbolizes personal growth and the capacity to overcome obstacles to reach my goals. Secondly, it has opened doors to new opportunities and expanded my horizons, both in my professional and personal life. Having a master’s degree in English has enhanced my communication skills, critical thinking abilities, and research acumen, which I can apply in various aspects of my life.

This accomplishment has had a profound impact on my life. It has boosted my self-confidence, knowing that I can overcome challenges and achieve my ambitions. It has also broadened my career prospects, providing me with the potential for career advancement and more extensive job opportunities. Additionally, the knowledge and skills I gained during my studies have enriched my personal life, allowing me to appreciate literature and language on a deeper level.

In retrospect, this achievement has been a testament to the idiom “where there’s a will, there’s a way.” It exemplifies that with determination and diligent effort, one can overcome obstacles and reach their aspirations. The journey to attaining my master’s degree was a transformative experience that has shaped my character and expanded my horizons. It has reaffirmed my belief in the importance of setting and pursuing ambitious goals, and it serves as a constant reminder that personal growth is a lifelong journey.

An Interesting Animal

Question 12: Describe an interesting animal you’ve encountered. You should say:

      – What type of animal was it?

      – Where did you encounter it?

      – What made it interesting?

      – How did you feel about the encounter?



Sample answer by Lifestyle Training Centre

During my visit to the picturesque beaches of Goa, I had the remarkable opportunity to encounter a pod of playful dolphins. The encounter left a lasting impression on me for several reasons, making it a truly memorable experience.

The type of animal I encountered was the common bottlenose dolphin, known for its friendly and sociable nature. Goa’s coastal waters are renowned for being home to these majestic creatures, and witnessing them in their natural habitat was a unique privilege.

The encounter took place during a boat ride in the Arabian Sea, just off the coast of Goa. As our boat cruised through the azure waters, it wasn’t long before the dolphins made their appearance. The sight of their sleek, grey bodies gracefully breaking the surface, with occasional leaps and flips, was nothing short of mesmerizing.

What made this encounter particularly interesting was the sheer curiosity and playfulness of the dolphins. They seemed to revel in our presence, swimming alongside the boat and leaping in and out of the water in an acrobatic display. Their joyful antics and the way they effortlessly glided through the waves were captivating.

The feeling of witnessing these intelligent creatures in their natural environment was truly exhilarating. It filled me with a sense of awe and wonder at the beauty of the natural world. It was a moment of connection with nature, a reminder of the incredible biodiversity our planet holds, and a sense of responsibility to protect these magnificent animals and their habitat.

As I reflect on this encounter, I can’t help but be reminded of the idiom “a fish out of water,” which symbolizes feeling out of place. In contrast, here in Goa, it was the dolphins that seemed perfectly in their element, and I felt incredibly fortunate to share that moment with them.

Encounters like these serve as a profound reminder of the beauty and wonder of our natural world and the importance of preserving it for future generations. This experience in Goa has left an indelible mark on my appreciation for marine life and the need to protect our oceans and the creatures that call them home.

A Favorite Childhood Toy

Question 11: Describe your favorite childhood toy. You should say:

      – What was the toy?

      – How did you get it?

      – Why was it your favorite?

      – What happened to it?

Sample answer by Lifestyle Training Centre

The favorite toy from my childhood that I’d like to talk about is my LEGO set. It wasn’t just any LEGO set; it was a massive box of assorted LEGO bricks that my parents gave me for my seventh birthday.

This LEGO set was special to me for several reasons. Firstly, it provided endless possibilities for creativity and imagination. The set had various shapes, sizes, and colors of LEGO bricks, allowing me to construct anything I could dream of. I could build towering skyscrapers, intricate castles, or even design my own unique creations. The freedom to build whatever I wanted was incredibly exciting and stimulating for a young mind.

Secondly, this LEGO set was a gift from my parents, and it came as a complete surprise. I remember the excitement of unwrapping the box and seeing all those colorful bricks neatly organized inside. It was a moment of pure joy and anticipation.

What made this LEGO set my absolute favorite was the countless hours I spent playing with it. I would lose myself in building elaborate structures and designing mini-worlds. It was a form of escapism, allowing me to create my own adventures and stories. It also gave me a sense of accomplishment each time I completed a project.

As for what happened to my beloved LEGO set, it still holds a special place in my heart. While I no longer actively play with it, I’ve carefully preserved it. Some of the bricks are a bit scuffed and faded from years of use, but I can’t bear to part with them. Occasionally, when I visit my parents’ house, I’ll take the LEGO set out of storage, and for a brief moment, I’ll feel like a child again, lost in the world of endless possibilities and creativity.

In conclusion, my childhood LEGO set was not just a toy; it was a source of inspiration, creativity, and cherished memories. It was a gift from my parents that brought me immense joy, and even though I’ve grown up, the memories of those imaginative playtimes will always hold a special place in my heart.

A Cultural Celebration

Question 10: Describe a cultural celebration or festival you’ve attended. You should say:

      – What is the name of the celebration or festival?

      – When and where did you attend it?

      – What customs or traditions are associated with it?

      – How did you feel during the celebration?

Sample answer by Lifestyle Training Centre

One of the most enchanting cultural celebrations I’ve had the privilege of attending is Christmas, a globally cherished festival that unites people in the spirit of joy and giving. I was fortunate to experience this festival in a wholly different context in Nagaland, my wife’s birthplace.

Christmas is traditionally celebrated on the 25th of December, but in Nagaland, the festivities extend over several days, creating a unique and vibrant celebration. The sense of anticipation and joy begins to fill the air long before Christmas day.

In Nagaland, Christmas customs and traditions take on a distinct flavor. It’s a time when people come together for extended celebrations that include baking traditional cakes, grilling pork, and enjoying campfires. The traditional attire adds a splash of color and cultural significance to the festivities. People engage in traditional Naga dance, and the sense of community is palpable.

One of the most delightful aspects of celebrating Christmas in Nagaland is the communal spirit of togetherness. Families and neighbors come together to celebrate, and it’s a time when the spirit of giving and sharing is truly exemplified. The festivities include stand-up comedy, music performances, and storytelling, all contributing to the jovial atmosphere.

As I joined in the celebrations in Nagaland, I couldn’t help but be swept up in the cultural richness and the warmth of the people. The experience was a blend of tradition and modernity, where Naga customs seamlessly merged with the joy and goodwill of Christmas.

In essence, celebrating Christmas in Nagaland is a unique and heartwarming experience, where traditions and modern customs come together in a tapestry of love and togetherness. This experience in my wife’s birthplace has enriched my understanding of cultural diversity, and it has left an enduring mark on the hearts of those who partake in its festivities.

A Gift You Received

Question 9: Describe a memorable gift you received. You should say:

     – What was the gift, and who gave it to you?

     – On what occasion did you receive it?

     – How did you feel when you received the gift?

     – How has it impacted your life?

Sample answer by Lifestyle Training Centre

A truly remarkable gift that has etched a lasting impression on my life is an exquisite wristwatch, a precious keepsake that was generously bequeathed to me by my grandfather on the auspicious occasion of my eighteenth birthday.

This wristwatch is more than just a timekeeping device; it’s a revered heirloom with a storied history. It once graced the wrist of my great-grandfather and has gracefully traversed through time, passing from one generation to the next. It symbolizes enduring family legacies and timeless values. My grandfather, a man of sagacity and grace, saw fit to entrust me with this invaluable gift as I crossed the threshold into adulthood.

The instant I received the watch, I was inundated with a profound sense of gratitude and a profound connection to my family’s heritage. The weight of the watch on my wrist felt like a responsibility, a constant reminder of the values and principles that have guided our family through the vicissitudes of time.

This watch has left an indelible mark on my life, nurturing my appreciation for tradition, the significance of passing down stories and heirlooms, and the depth of family bonds. With every fleeting second, it imparts an enduring lesson on the significance of honoring our roots and upholding the values embraced by generations before me.

In essence, this wristwatch is more than a mere chronometer; it embodies the legacy, love, and the timeless connection that transcends generations. It has added layers of meaning to my life that cannot be encapsulated in words and stands as a testament to one of the most meaningful gifts I’ve ever received.

A Place You’d Like to Live

Question 8: Describe a place you’d like to live in the future. You should say:

     – Where is this place located?

     – What attracts you to this location?

     – How do you envision your life there?

     – What changes would you need to make to move there?

Sample answers by Lifestyle Training Centre

A place I’ve always yearned to call home in the future is the United Kingdom, with a particular fascination for the vibrant city of London. This remarkable location holds a magnetic appeal for a myriad of reasons.

What draws me to London like a moth to a flame is its status as a global melting pot, where diverse cultures come together like pieces of a jigsaw puzzle. The city’s rich history, iconic landmarks, and thriving arts scene have always been a profound source of fascination. Moreover, the prospect of daily interaction with native English speakers is like music to my ears, offering the perfect environment to sharpen my language skills and gain insights into the local culture.

In terms of envisaging my life there, I see myself in a cozy apartment in one of London’s historic neighborhoods, perhaps with a picturesque view of the Thames River. My days would be filled with exploration, from strolling through the charming streets of Notting Hill to catching world-class theater productions in the West End. I’d relish London’s multicultural cuisine, visit renowned museums and galleries, and savor the changing seasons, including the crisp winters, which would be a breath of fresh air.

Nevertheless, this transition wouldn’t be all sunshine and rainbows. Relocating to London would necessitate acclimating to a faster-paced urban lifestyle, securing a work opportunity or a sustainable source of income, and navigating the labyrinth of immigration requirements. It would also involve getting a grasp of the nuances of British culture and social etiquette.

In short, my aspiration to settle down in London, United Kingdom, is driven by the desire to immerse myself in a dynamic, multicultural environment, enhance my language proficiency by rubbing shoulders with native speakers, and experience the city’s unique lifestyle and seasons. While the prospect of change brings its fair share of twists and turns, the promise of personal growth and cultural enrichment makes it an exhilarating prospect for my future.