TASK 1
1. What traditional dish is popular in your region, and why?
In Kerala, one of the most popular traditional dishes is “sadya,” a feast comprising a variety of vegetarian dishes served on a banana leaf. It’s the cornerstone of Kerala’s hospitality, often enjoyed during festivals like Onam. The mouth-watering combination of rice, sambar, and various side dishes creates a medley of flavours that’s hard to beat. Hands down, it’s a meal that brings the whole family together and showcases the region’s love for abundant, flavourful food. In Kerala, food isn’t just about eating—it’s about nourishing the soul and celebrating togetherness.
2. Do you think traditional cuisines are losing their relevance in modern times?
Sadly, traditional dishes sometimes take a backseat in today’s fast-paced world, with people opting for quick fixes like fast food. Kerala’s traditional meals, which are rich in flavour and made with fresh local ingredients, require time and effort to prepare. In today’s world, where convenience often trumps quality, many bypass the effort it takes to make a dish like sadya. But there are still many people who are trying to keep the tradition alive by passing down recipes and promoting the importance of eating locally grown, natural food. It’s a tough nut to crack, but there’s hope that traditional food won’t fade away completely.
3. How do traditional meals reflect the culture and values of your country?
Traditional meals like sadya reflect Kerala’s values of hospitality and community spirit. It’s more than just food—it’s a celebration of the land’s agricultural richness and the importance of family. Kerala’s cuisine is rooted in the idea of sharing, with meals being served in large portions to be enjoyed by all. These customs highlight the sense of unity in Kerala, where food is a symbol of respect for guests. To me, the meal is like a metaphor for life in Kerala: simple, yet nourishing and soulful.
4. How important is food in social gatherings in your country?
Food is at the heart of any social gathering in Kerala. Whether it’s a wedding, a family get-together, or a religious festival, food is always central to the occasion. Breaking bread together is a way of showing respect and fostering a sense of unity. People go out of their way to make sure that no guest is left hungry, often offering multiple servings until the plate is cleaned to the last morsel. In Kerala, it’s believed that food brings people closer, creating lasting memories around the dining table. It’s where conversations flow freely and connections are strengthened.
5. What do you think of fusion cuisines that combine traditional dishes with new ingredients?
Fusion cuisine can be a double-edged sword, especially when it comes to traditional Kerala dishes. While it’s exciting to experiment and introduce new flavours, there’s always the risk that the original taste could be lost. Sometimes less is more, and when it comes to Kerala cuisine, I believe that the simpler, more traditional recipes speak for themselves. That said, fusion food can offer a breath of fresh air if done right. It could introduce people to Kerala’s vibrant culture in a new light, but it’s important not to overdo it or compromise the authenticity of the dish.
6. Do you believe food influences social status in your country?
In Kerala, food can play a subtle role in showing one’s status. For example, people often go the extra mile when hosting elaborate feasts during weddings or festivals, serving the best of the best, which could include sophisticated dishes like Kerala-style seafood or exotic fruits. However, at the same time, Kerala’s food culture is also about simplicity—less is more. Even a humble meal like thoran (vegetable stir-fry) or sambar rice can be enjoyed by all, irrespective of social standing. It’s a delicate balance—food in Kerala doesn’t just define status, but rather reflects the genuine spirit of hospitality.
7. How has Kerala’s traditional cuisine influenced modern food culture?
Kerala’s traditional cuisine, especially with its emphasis on spices, coconut, and fresh local produce, has made a lasting impact on modern food culture. Today, many restaurants outside of Kerala are incorporating these unique ingredients into their menus, giving Kerala cuisine a global platform. Whether it’s the use of coconut milk in curries or spicy seafood dishes, Kerala’s culinary influence is spreading fast. However, there’s always the fear that modern interpretations could water down the true essence of the food. But at its core, Kerala cuisine still manages to hold its ground in terms of flavour and tradition.
8. What role do spices play in Kerala’s cuisine?
Spices are the lifeblood of Kerala’s cuisine. They’re not just used for flavour, but also for their preservative qualities and medicinal properties. Spices like turmeric, cumin, coriander, and black pepper are the building blocks of Kerala’s aromatic dishes. They also reflect the region’s historical trade connections, as many of these spices were once highly sought after in global markets. Kerala cuisine’s spice blend is what gives its dishes that signature kick and depth of flavour. Without them, the food wouldn’t be quite the same.
9. How do you think the younger generation in Kerala views traditional cuisine?
The younger generation in Kerala is caught between two worlds: the traditional and the modern. While many young people continue to embrace the food culture of their ancestors, there is also a noticeable shift towards fast food and fusion cuisine. Some may turn up their noses at traditional dishes, preferring the convenience of globalised fast food. However, there’s also a strong movement among youth who are rediscovering the rich culinary heritage of Kerala. They’re learning to appreciate the health benefits and distinct flavours of home-cooked meals, leading to a resurgence of interest in the region’s food traditions.
10. Do you think the globalisation of food has affected Kerala’s traditional cuisine?
Globalisation has certainly left its mark on Kerala’s traditional cuisine. Fast food chains and international cuisine have infiltrated the food scene, often attracting the younger crowd who are more inclined towards convenience. However, despite this trend, Kerala’s traditional food has remained close to the heart of many locals. There’s been a resurgence in the desire to preserve authentic recipes and bring them into the modern age. While globalisation has certainly paved the way for new culinary experiences, it hasn’t been able to diminish the charm and depth of Kerala’s cuisine.
List of vocabulary used: (Task 1)
- Sadya – A traditional Kerala feast with a variety of vegetarian dishes served on a banana leaf.
- Cornerstone – The fundamental or essential part of something.
- Mouth-watering – Extremely appetising or delicious.
- Medley – A mixture or combination of different things.
- Hands-down – Without question, unquestionably.
- Nourishing – Providing essential nutrients, sustaining.
- Takeaway – A type of food that is prepared and consumed outside the dining space.
- Quick-fix – A temporary solution or quick remedy.
- Rich – Full of flavour or intense in taste.
- Bypass – To avoid or neglect.
- Tradition – Customs or beliefs passed down through generations.
- Celebration – The action of celebrating an event or occasion.
- Unity – The state of being united or joined as a whole.
- Symbol – An object, mark, or sign that represents something else.
- Soulful – Full of deep feeling or emotion, especially in food.
- Heart – The central, most important part of something.
- Morsel – A small piece or bite of food.
- Conversations – The informal exchange of ideas or thoughts.
- Flavour – The distinctive taste of a food or drink.
- Fusion – The blending or combination of different elements.
- Status – Social or professional standing or rank.
- Exotic – Attractive because it is unusual or different from what is familiar.
- Genuine – Authentic, sincere, and real.
- Spices – Aromatic substances, usually from plants, used for flavouring food.
- Lifeblood – The essential, sustaining force of something.
- Preservative – A substance used to prevent decay or spoilage, especially in food.
- Kick – A strong, sharp taste or sensation.
- Heritage – Traditions, culture, and history passed down from the past.
- Resurgence – A revival or renewed interest.
- Globalisation – The process by which businesses or cultural elements spread across the world.
- Coriander – A herb used in cooking, known for its fresh, citrusy flavour.
- Sophisticated – Refined, cultured, or advanced in nature.
- Impact – The strong effect or influence of something.
- Preserve – To maintain something in its original state.
- Symbol – An object or idea that represents something beyond its literal meaning.
Idioms List with Meanings
- Take a backseat – To become less important or take a less dominant role.
- Quick fix – A fast, temporary solution to a problem.
- Tough nut to crack – A difficult problem or challenge that is hard to solve.
- Break bread – To share a meal with others.
- Cleaned to the last morsel – To finish every bit of food on a plate.
- Conversations flow – When discussions happen smoothly without interruption.
- Double-edged sword – A situation with both positive and negative consequences.
- Breath of fresh air – Something new and refreshing that provides relief.
- Go the extra mile – To make an additional effort beyond what is expected.
- Overdo it – To do something to an excessive degree.
- Heart of the matter – The central, most important issue.
- Hands down – Without a doubt, unquestionably.
- Lose track of time – To become so engrossed in something that time seems to pass unnoticed.
- Nourishing the soul – Providing emotional or spiritual sustenance, not just physical food.
- Water down – To make something less potent or diluted in strength.
- Hold its ground – To maintain its position or resist being overtaken by something else.
Phrases List with Meanings
- Keep the tradition alive – To continue or maintain a cultural or customary practice.
- Go the extra mile – To make more effort than what is expected or required.
- Sophisticated dishes – Complex, intricate, and refined dishes, often requiring advanced cooking techniques.
- Showing one’s status – To display or reveal one’s social or economic standing.
- Clean to the last morsel – To consume every bit of food, leaving nothing behind.
- Genuine spirit – An authentic attitude or feeling, often related to hospitality or kindness.
- Rich culinary heritage – A diverse and valuable tradition of cooking and food culture.
- Fusion cuisine – The combination of ingredients or cooking techniques from different cuisines.
- Breaking bread – A metaphor for sharing a meal and fostering connection.
- Tough nut to crack – A problem or challenge that is hard to solve or overcome.
Task 2
Question: Describe your favourite book.
– You should say:
– What is the book’s title and who is the author?
– When did you read it, and what is it about?
– Why do you consider it your favourite?
– Have you recommended it to others?
Task 3 follow-up questions and answers
1. How do you think the way people read books has changed over the years?
Over the years, the way people read books has changed by leaps and bounds. Gone are the days when people were tied to physical copies, as now we have e-books and audiobooks that make reading much more accessible. With smartphones in everyone’s pocket, it’s easy to read on the go, whether you’re sitting in a café or waiting for the bus. While digital formats are definitely the flavour of the month, many still hold onto the good old-fashioned charm of paperbacks. It’s clear that the advent of technology has opened up new doors, but for some, nothing beats curling up with a good book in your hands.
2. In your opinion, does the format of a book impact how well you understand it?
Yes, I believe the format of a book can make or break how well you understand it. For instance, reading a physical book can give you a sense of ownership over the story, as you can mark pages and flip back for context. E-books, on the other hand, allow for more convenience and flexibility, but they often lack the tangible connection to the material. Audiobooks can provide a completely different vibe, but it can be easy to lose focus if you’re distracted. I think the ideal format depends on the individual, but each one brings its own set of pros and cons to the table.
3. Do you think reading is a skill that can be improved over time?
Absolutely. Reading is like any other skill—it can be honed and improved with practice. The more you read, the sharper your mind gets, and the easier it is to pick up new concepts. It’s like learning to ride a bike—once you get the hang of it, it becomes second nature. Reading not only helps you expand your vocabulary but also broadens your horizons by exposing you to different cultures and perspectives. Over time, you become more adept at analysing complex ideas and understanding different viewpoints.
4. How important is it to understand the context while reading a book?
Understanding the context is absolutely key to getting the full picture. Without context, you may miss the subtle nuances that make a story so engaging. It’s like trying to read between the lines without the proper background information—things just won’t make sense. Context helps to set the stage, giving you the background you need to appreciate the deeper meaning of the narrative. So, to fully grasp the book’s essence, understanding the context is absolutely vital.
5. Do you think reading fiction can improve one’s creativity?
Definitely. Reading fiction can be a real game-changer when it comes to sparking creativity. It introduces you to new worlds, characters, and ideas that are often beyond your wildest imagination. It’s like unlocking a treasure chest of inspiration—when you’re constantly exposed to different stories, your mind starts to think outside the box. Fiction also encourages you to connect the dots and see patterns in ways you might not have before. So yes, fiction can really fire up your imagination and push the boundaries of creative thinking.
6. How do you feel about people who prefer to read summaries of books instead of the books themselves?
While reading summaries might save time, I believe it’s always better to go the extra mile and read the entire book. Summaries only offer a snapshot of the plot and often skip over the juicy bits that make a story truly memorable. It’s like trying to cut corners—you’ll never get the full experience. Although summaries can be handy for a quick overview, they can’t capture the depth and emotional investment that come with reading a full book. In my opinion, a book is best enjoyed in its entirety, with all its twists and turns.
7. How does reading help people with their language skills?
Reading is a fantastic way to polish your language skills. It exposes you to a wide variety of vocabulary, sentence structures, and writing styles. It’s like a treasure trove of new words waiting to be discovered. The more you read, the better you become at picking up context clues and using words in the right context. Additionally, reading regularly can help you develop a natural flow when speaking or writing, allowing you to express yourself more eloquently. Over time, reading becomes a key ingredient in improving your language fluency.
8. What makes a good book recommendation?
A good book recommendation is one that is tailored to your interests and personal taste. It’s like finding a needle in a haystack—the right recommendation can open doors to new worlds. A good recommender knows what you’re into and can nail it with a suggestion that fits perfectly. It’s not just about the popularity of the book; it’s about how well it resonates with you as a reader. A book recommendation should not only suit your mood but also challenge you to think deeper, making it a rewarding experience.
9. Do you think reading books online can have the same effect as reading a physical book?
While reading online offers convenience, it’s still a bit of a double-edged sword. You can easily jump from page to page without the tactile connection of a physical book, but that can make it hard to focus. It’s like multitasking—you’re doing more, but sometimes at the cost of quality. With e-books, it’s easy to get distracted by notifications or apps, which can break your focus. Still, for those who are on the go, digital books provide unmatched convenience. But when it comes to immersion, there’s no substitute for holding a real book in your hands.
10. How do books shape our opinions and worldview?
Books have a profound effect on shaping our opinions and worldview. They are like windows to the soul—they offer glimpses into different ways of thinking, living, and perceiving the world. A good book can turn your world upside down and challenge your preconceived notions. Reading expands your perspective by opening your eyes to issues and ideas you might have never considered. Books also fuel personal growth, helping you to understand not just the world around you, but also your place within it.
List of vocabulary used: (Task 3)
- Accessible – Easy to approach or reach.
- Snapshot – A brief or quick view of something.
- Treasure – Valuable things; often used metaphorically for something precious.
- Imagination – The ability to form new ideas or images not present to the senses.
- Apt – Appropriate or suitable in the circumstances.
- Fluency – The ability to express oneself easily and smoothly.
- Resonate – To produce a lasting impression or effect.
- Tailored – Custom-made or adapted to a specific purpose or person.
- Challenge – A difficult task or problem that requires effort.
- Preconceived – Formed before having sufficient evidence or knowledge.
- Multitasking – Performing more than one task at the same time.
- Immersion – Involvement or deep engagement in something.
- Tactile – Related to the sense of touch.
- Depth – The complexity or thoroughness of something.
- Flavour – The distinctive taste or quality of something.
- Focus – The centre of attention or activity.
- Perspective – A particular attitude toward or way of regarding something.
- Worldview – A particular philosophy or outlook on life.
- Engagement – Participation or involvement in something.
- Resurgence – An increase or revival after a period of decline.
- Subtle – Delicate or not obvious.
- Authenticity – The quality of being genuine or true.
- Convenience – The state of being easy and suitable.
- Vibe – A distinctive feeling or atmosphere.
- Essence – The intrinsic nature or indispensable quality of something.
- Simplicity – The quality of being plain or uncomplicated.
- Exposure – The state of being exposed to something (e.g., information, ideas).
- Immersion – Deep involvement in something.
- Rewarding – Providing satisfaction or benefit.
Idioms List with Meanings:
- By leaps and bounds – Rapidly, significantly.
- Gone are the days – Referring to something that no longer exists or happens.
- The flavour of the month – A temporary trend or fad.
- Hold onto – To keep something, often for emotional reasons.
- Cut corners – To do something poorly or cheaply to save time or money.
- A treasure chest – A source of valuable things or information.
- Think outside the box – To think creatively, unconventionally.
- Nail it – To do something perfectly or successfully.
- Make or break – The critical factor that can determine success or failure.
- Break your focus – To cause distraction, interrupt concentration.
- Turn your world upside down – To completely change someone’s life or view on something.
- Fire up your imagination – To inspire creativity or new ideas.
- Go the extra mile – To put in more effort than what is expected.
- On the go – Always busy, or constantly moving.
- Get the full picture – To understand something completely.
- At the heart of – The most important or central part of something.
- Make sense – To be logical or understandable.
- Open doors – To create new opportunities or possibilities.
- The ideal format – The best or most suitable arrangement.
- Polish your skills – To improve or refine your abilities.
- Hold your ground – To maintain one’s position or opinion.
- Take the plunge – To take a risk or make a bold decision.
- Keep up with – To maintain the same level as something or someone.
- Hit the nail on the head – To be exactly right about something.
- Set the stage – To prepare or create the right conditions for something to happen.
- Pick up – To learn or acquire something.
- Break the ice – To make people feel more comfortable in a social setting.
- Go the extra mile – To put in additional effort to ensure success.
- Catch someone’s attention – To draw interest or focus.
Phrases List with Meanings:
- On the go – Always busy, constantly moving.
- Tailored to – Customised for a specific need or person.
- In the loop – Included in the knowledge or group involved in something.
- Bigger picture – The overall perspective or situation, as opposed to just focusing on the small details.
- Give it a shot – To try something out, attempt something.
- At the heart of – The central or most essential part of something.
- Made a lasting impression – Created a strong effect or impact.
- Open up new doors – To create new opportunities or possibilities.
- Go hand in hand – To be closely related or associated.
- Keep the ball rolling – To continue making progress on something.
- Have a deep impact – To affect or influence strongly.
- Put into practice – To apply a theory or idea in real life.
- Jump from page to page – To quickly move through text without thorough reading.
- Break the routine – To do something different from what is usual.
- Lose focus – To become distracted and stop concentrating.
- Nail down – To settle or finalise something.
- Up to speed – To bring someone to the same level of understanding as others.
- In your own right – Independently; not because of someone else’s influence.
- At your fingertips – Easily accessible or available.
- Catch someone’s eye – To attract attention.
IELTS Speaking Task Topics
Click on any topic to explore more!
Names
Learn about the importance of names and their cultural significance.
Study / Job
Discuss various aspects of studying and working in different fields.
Hometown
Explore the charm of your hometown and its unique features.
Accomodation
Understand various types of accommodation and living situations.
Weather
Learn about how weather influences daily life and activities.
Time
Discuss the concept of time, its importance, and time management.
Television
Talk about the role of television in modern entertainment.
Museum
Discuss the cultural importance of museums and historical exhibits.
Holidays
Explore the significance of holidays and different celebrations.
Films
Learn about the impact of films on culture and society.
Leisure Time
Discuss how leisure activities impact personal well-being.
Sport
Talk about the role of sports in health, entertainment, and culture.
Vegetables and Fruits
Discuss the health benefits and importance of fresh produce.
Maths
Explore the role of mathematics in various aspects of life.
Sky
Discuss the beauty and scientific significance of the sky.
Clothes&Fashion
Explore how clothing reflects culture and personal expression.
Weekend
Discuss the importance of weekends and ways people relax.
Reading
Learn about the importance of reading and various reading habits.
Sleep
Explore how sleep impacts physical and mental well-being.
Trees&Plants
Discuss the environmental and health benefits of plants.
Newspaper
Discuss the evolving role of newspapers in the digital age.
Texting
Explore the role of text messaging in modern communication.
Memorising
Learn techniques for improving memory and memorization.
Travelling
Discuss the importance and impact of traveling in modern society.
Communication
Explore the modes and significance of communicating well
Letter&Email
Explore the differences and significance of letters vs. emails.
Swimming
Discuss the benefits of swimming for health and fitness.
Snacks
Explore the role of snacks in daily nutrition and lifestyle.
Photography
Discuss photography’s cultural and artistic significance.
Help
Talk about the importance of offering and receiving help.
History
Discuss historical events and their impact on modern society.
Handwriting
Explore the significance of handwriting in education and culture.
Music
Learn about the influence of music on emotions and society.
Colours
Discuss how colours affect perception and mood.
Teachers
Explore the role of teachers in shaping students’ futures.
Being Alone
Talk about the experience and benefits of spending time alone.
Teamwork
Learn the importance of teamwork in professional and social contexts.
Countryside & City
Explore the charm and benefits of living in the countryside.
Social Media
Discuss the impact of social media on society and relationships.
Friends
Explore the importance of friendships in life.
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Talk about the future of AI and its role in society.
Climate Change
Discuss the causes and consequences of climate change.
Transportation
Explore different modes of transportation in your area.
Sustainable Transportation
Explore ways to make transportation more environmentally friendly.
Space Exploration
Learn about the latest advancements in space exploration.
Shopping
Explore how shopping influences culture and the economy.
Modern Technology
Discuss how modern technology is reshaping society.
Technology
Learn about the role of technology in everyday life.
Sustainable Living
Explore ways to live sustainably for the future of the planet.
Globalisation
Learn about the effects of globalisation on society and economies.
Global Warming
Discuss the causes, effects, and solutions to global warming.
Gender Equality
Explore the importance of gender equality in modern society.
Health and Fitness
Discuss the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Renewable Energy
Learn about renewable energy sources and their impact on the environment.
Cultural Traditions in Kerala
Explore the unique cultural traditions of Kerala, your hometown.
Cultural Traditions in Your Country
Learn about the cultural traditions in your country.
Education System
Discuss the education system in your country and its effectiveness.
Traditional Cuisine
Explore the significance of traditional cuisines in your culture.
Do you need printed IELTS/ OET practice material? Place your order today. Available now for just Rs: 1,100 (including shipping all across India) Contact us at our WhatsApp number: +91 9886926773 to place your order. (Free for LTC students)
We hope this information has been valuable to you. If so, please consider a monetary donation to Lifestyle Training Centre via UPI. Your support is greatly appreciated.
Would you like to undergo training for OET, PTE, IELTS, Duolingo, Phonetics, or Spoken English with us? Kindly contact us now!
📱 Call/WhatsApp/Text: +91 9886926773
📧 Email: [email protected]
Visit us in person by following the directions on Google Maps. We look forward to welcoming you to the Lifestyle Training Centre.
Follow Lifestyle Training Centre on social media:
Thank you very much!