Speak with me (Band 9.0!) | Cambridge IELTS 18 Test 1

My name is Emily.

I'm from a town called Oakville, just outside of Toronto, Canada. It's a lovely place.

Well, there are a few different types of bills I have to keep up with. There's rent for my apartment, utilities like electricity and water, internet and phone bills, and sometimes I have to chip in for groceries with my roommates. It's all part of adulting, you know?

I usually pay my bills electronically, using online banking or setting up automatic payments. It's just more convenient that way, and I don't have to worry about remembering to pay each one on time.

Yeah, unfortunately, it's happened a couple of times. Sometimes I've gotten busy and forgotten to schedule the payment, but I usually catch it pretty quickly and take care of it right away. It's definitely not fun dealing with late fees, so I try to stay on top of it as much as possible.

Yeah, I've tried a few things to cut down on my bills. For example, I've switched to energy-efficient light bulbs and appliances to save on electricity, and I've shopped around for better deals on internet and phone plans. Sometimes, just being mindful of my usage helps too, like turning off lights when I leave a room or unplugging devices when they're not in use. Every little bit helps!

Sure thing! So, I want to talk about this delicious dish I learned to prepare called chicken curry. I learned how to make it about two years ago when I was visiting my friend in India. She's an amazing cook, and she taught me her family's traditional recipe.

First, she showed me all the different spices and ingredients we needed, like turmeric, cumin, coriander, and ginger. We went to the local market to buy fresh vegetables and chicken, which was really fun to experience. Then, she guided me through the whole cooking process step by step, from marinating the chicken to simmering the curry sauce.

Learning to prepare chicken curry was such a rewarding experience. Not only did I get to learn a new recipe, but I also got to immerse myself in the culture and traditions of India. Plus, it was a great bonding experience with my friend. I felt a sense of accomplishment when the dish turned out delicious, and it made me feel more confident in my cooking skills.

Overall, learning to prepare chicken curry was an unforgettable experience that I'll always cherish. It not only introduced me to a new culinary skill but also deepened my appreciation for different cuisines and cultures.

No, I don't cook chicken curry every day. It's more of a special occasion dish or something I make when I'm craving some comforting Indian food.

Children can learn to cook a wide variety of things, ranging from simple snacks like sandwiches and salads to more complex dishes like pasta or stir-fries. It's all about starting with basic skills and gradually building up their confidence in the kitchen. They can also learn to bake cookies, muffins, or even cakes, which can be a fun and tasty way to get them interested in cooking. The key is to keep it age-appropriate and safe, while also encouraging them to explore different flavors and ingredients.

Absolutely, I think it's incredibly important for children to learn to cook. Not only does it teach them essential life skills that they'll use every day, but it also helps them develop a healthier relationship with food. Learning to cook empowers children to make nutritious choices and encourages them to appreciate the effort that goes into preparing meals. Plus, it's a valuable skill that they'll carry with them into adulthood, helping them lead healthier and more independent lives.

I believe that young people should have the opportunity to learn to cook both at home and at school. Cooking at home allows them to learn in a familiar environment and bond with family members over shared meals. On the other hand, cooking classes in school can provide structured lessons, access to professional guidance, and exposure to a wider variety of cuisines. Ideally, a combination of both home and school cooking experiences would offer the most comprehensive learning opportunities for young people.

Working as a professional chef can be incredibly enjoyable for those who have a passion for cooking and creativity. It offers the opportunity to express oneself through food, constantly innovate and experiment with new flavors and techniques. The fast-paced environment of a kitchen can be exhilarating, and seeing satisfied customers enjoy your dishes can be incredibly rewarding. However, it's also a demanding and high-pressure job, requiring long hours on your feet and the ability to handle stress and criticism. Overall, for those who love cooking and thrive in a dynamic environment, working as a chef can be a highly enjoyable and fulfilling career.

To be a great chef, a person needs a combination of culinary skills, creativity, attention to detail, and the ability to work well under pressure. They should have a deep understanding of cooking techniques, flavor profiles, and ingredient combinations. Additionally, strong organizational skills, time management, and the ability to multitask are essential in a fast-paced kitchen environment. Great chefs also possess excellent communication skills to effectively lead and collaborate with kitchen staff. Adaptability, problem-solving abilities, and a passion for food are also key qualities that contribute to success in the culinary world. Overall, it's a mix of technical expertise, creativity, and personal attributes that make a person a great chef.

Celebrity chefs and TV chefs have a significant influence on what ordinary people cook. Their popularity and visibility on television, social media, and cookbooks make them trendsetters in the culinary world. Many people look to these chefs for inspiration, trying out their recipes and cooking techniques at home. Additionally, their endorsement of certain ingredients, cooking gadgets, or food trends can influence consumer behavior and purchasing decisions. Overall, celebrity and TV chefs play a crucial role in shaping culinary trends and preferences among ordinary people.