Chủ đề về ẩm thực, đặc biệt là “Describe A Recent Meal That You Enjoyed”, là một trong những đề tài phổ biến và được yêu thích nhất trong IELTS Speaking. Với tư cách là một examiner có hơn 20 năm kinh nghiệm, tôi nhận thấy đây là chủ đề xuất hiện thường xuyên trong các kỳ thi IELTS từ 2020 đến nay, với tần suất trung bình 2-3 lần mỗi quý.
Chủ đề này đặc biệt quan trọng vì nó cho phép thí sinh thể hiện khả năng miêu tả chi tiết, sử dụng từ vựng đa dạng về ẩm thực, và chia sẻ cảm xúc cá nhân một cách tự nhiên. Các góc độ thường được khai thác bao gồm: mô tả món ăn cụ thể, bối cảnh bữa ăn, cảm nhận về hương vị, và ý nghĩa đặc biệt của bữa ăn đó.
Trong bài viết này, bạn sẽ học được:
- 10+ câu hỏi thực tế cho cả 3 Part của IELTS Speaking về chủ đề ẩm thực
- Bài mẫu chi tiết theo 3 band điểm khác nhau (6-7, 7.5-8, 8.5-9) với phân tích sâu sắc
- Hơn 50 từ vựng và cụm từ ăn điểm liên quan đến món ăn và trải nghiệm ẩm thực
- Chiến lược trả lời hiệu quả từ góc nhìn của examiner chính thức
- Những lỗi thường gặp của học viên Việt Nam và cách khắc phục
- Cấu trúc ngữ pháp nâng cao giúp tăng band điểm
IELTS Speaking Part 1: Introduction and Interview
Tổng Quan Về Part 1
Part 1 của IELTS Speaking kéo dài 4-5 phút, trong đó examiner sẽ hỏi các câu hỏi ngắn về đời sống hàng ngày của bạn. Đây là phần “warm-up” giúp bạn cảm thấy thoải mái trước khi chuyển sang các phần khó hơn.
Đặc điểm chính:
- Câu hỏi đơn giản về cuộc sống cá nhân, sở thích, thói quen
- Yêu cầu trả lời ngắn gọn nhưng đầy đủ (2-3 câu)
- Không cần chuẩn bị trước hoặc suy nghĩ quá lâu
Chiến lược hiệu quả:
- Trả lời trực tiếp câu hỏi trong câu đầu tiên
- Mở rộng bằng cách đưa ra lý do hoặc ví dụ
- Sử dụng từ vựng tự nhiên, không quá phức tạp
Lỗi thường gặp của học viên Việt Nam:
- Chỉ trả lời Yes/No mà không giải thích
- Sử dụng từ vựng học thuộc, nghe không tự nhiên
- Thiếu ví dụ cụ thể từ kinh nghiệm bản thân
- Nói quá ngắn hoặc quá dài so với yêu cầu
Các Câu Hỏi Thường Gặp
Question 1: Do you enjoy cooking at home?
Question 2: What kinds of food do you like to eat?
Question 3: Did you enjoy eating certain food when you were a child?
Question 4: How often do you eat out in restaurants?
Question 5: What was the last meal you cooked?
Question 6: Do you prefer eating at home or in a restaurant?
Question 7: What is your favorite type of cuisine?
Question 8: Have your eating habits changed over the years?
Question 9: Do you like trying new foods?
Question 10: Is breakfast an important meal for you?
Phân Tích và Gợi Ý Trả Lời Chi Tiết
Question: Do you enjoy cooking at home?
🎯 Cách tiếp cận:
- Trả lời có/không một cách rõ ràng
- Giải thích lý do (tại sao thích/không thích)
- Đưa ra ví dụ cụ thể về món ăn hoặc tần suất nấu
📝 Sample Answer – Band 6-7:
“Yes, I enjoy cooking at home quite a lot. I usually cook simple dishes like fried rice or noodle soup. I find it relaxing after a long day at work, and it’s healthier than eating outside food.”
Phân tích:
- Điểm mạnh: Trả lời rõ ràng, có lý do cơ bản, đề cập được lợi ích
- Hạn chế: Từ vựng đơn giản (simple dishes, fried rice), thiếu chi tiết về trải nghiệm nấu ăn
- Tại sao Band 6-7: Câu trả lời đạt yêu cầu cơ bản với cấu trúc đơn giản và từ vựng phổ thông, nhưng chưa thể hiện sự linh hoạt trong ngôn ngữ
📝 Sample Answer – Band 8-9:
“Absolutely! I’m quite passionate about cooking, especially on weekends when I have more time to experiment with different recipes. I find the whole process quite therapeutic – from selecting fresh ingredients at the market to plating the final dish. Recently, I’ve been perfecting my pasta-making skills, and there’s something incredibly satisfying about creating a meal from scratch.”
Phân tích:
- Điểm mạnh: Sử dụng từ vựng phong phú (passionate, therapeutic, plating), cấu trúc câu đa dạng (from…to…, there’s something…about), thể hiện cảm xúc chân thực
- Tại sao Band 8-9: Thể hiện khả năng sử dụng ngôn ngữ tự nhiên với collocations chính xác (experiment with recipes, from scratch), mô tả chi tiết trải nghiệm cá nhân, và diễn đạt cảm xúc tinh tế
💡 Key Vocabulary & Expressions:
- passionate about: có niềm đam mê với
- experiment with recipes: thử nghiệm các công thức món ăn
- therapeutic: có tác dụng chữa lành, thư giãn
- plating the final dish: bày biện món ăn hoàn thiện
- from scratch: từ đầu, tự làm hoàn toàn
Question: What kinds of food do you like to eat?
🎯 Cách tiếp cận:
- Đề cập đến 2-3 loại món ăn yêu thích
- Giải thích tại sao thích (hương vị, văn hóa, kỷ niệm)
- Có thể so sánh hoặc nêu bối cảnh ăn uống
📝 Sample Answer – Band 6-7:
“I like eating Vietnamese food the most because it’s what I grew up with. I also enjoy Italian food like pizza and pasta. These foods taste good and are not too expensive in my city.”
Phân tích:
- Điểm mạnh: Đề cập được 2 loại món ăn, có lý do cơ bản
- Hạn chế: Thiếu mô tả chi tiết về hương vị, lý do quá đơn giản (“taste good”), không có từ vựng chuyên sâu
- Tại sao Band 6-7: Trả lời đủ ý nhưng thiếu depth và vocabulary range
📝 Sample Answer – Band 8-9:
“I’m quite eclectic in my food preferences, but I’m particularly drawn to Asian cuisine, especially authentic Vietnamese dishes with their delicate balance of flavors. That said, I also have a soft spot for Mediterranean food – there’s something about the freshness of Greek salads or the richness of Spanish tapas that I find absolutely irresistible. I suppose I’m someone who appreciates bold flavors and diverse culinary experiences.”
Phân tích:
- Điểm mạnh: Từ vựng tinh tế (eclectic, delicate balance, irresistible), cấu trúc phức tạp (there’s something about…), thể hiện sự suy nghĩ sâu sắc về ẩm thực
- Tại sao Band 8-9: Sử dụng collocations tự nhiên (soft spot for, drawn to, bold flavors), mô tả đa chiều về trải nghiệm ẩm thực, thể hiện cultural awareness
💡 Key Vocabulary & Expressions:
- eclectic in food preferences: đa dạng trong sở thích ẩm thực
- drawn to: bị thu hút bởi
- delicate balance of flavors: sự cân bằng tinh tế của hương vị
- soft spot for: yêu thích đặc biệt
- irresistible: không thể cưỡng lại
Học viên đang luyện tập IELTS Speaking về chủ đề món ăn yêu thích với examiner
Question: How often do you eat out in restaurants?
🎯 Cách tiếp cận:
- Nêu tần suất cụ thể (once a week, occasionally, regularly)
- Giải thích lý do cho tần suất này (busy schedule, budget, preference)
- Có thể đề cập loại nhà hàng thường đến
📝 Sample Answer – Band 6-7:
“I eat out about twice a week, usually on weekends. I go to restaurants with my friends or family because I’m quite busy during weekdays. We often choose casual restaurants that serve local food.”
Phân tích:
- Điểm mạnh: Nêu rõ tần suất, có giải thích đơn giản, đề cập người đi cùng
- Hạn chế: Từ vựng cơ bản (casual restaurants, local food), thiếu chi tiết về trải nghiệm
- Tại sao Band 6-7: Đáp ứng yêu cầu nhưng thiếu sophistication trong ngôn ngữ
📝 Sample Answer – Band 8-9:
“I’d say I dine out roughly two or three times a week, though it really depends on my schedule. During busy periods at work, I might grab a quick bite at nearby cafes, but when I have more leisure time, I prefer to treat myself to a proper dining experience at upscale restaurants or trendy eateries. I find that eating out isn’t just about the food – it’s also a great way to catch up with friends or unwind after a hectic week.”
Phân tích:
- Điểm mạnh: Từ vựng đa dạng (dine out, upscale restaurants, trendy eateries), cấu trúc linh hoạt (it depends on…, it’s not just about…), phân tích đa chiều về mục đích ăn ngoài
- Tại sao Band 8-9: Sử dụng synonyms tự nhiên (dine out thay vì eat out), phrasal verbs phù hợp (catch up with, unwind), thể hiện khả năng diễn đạt nuanced ideas
💡 Key Vocabulary & Expressions:
- dine out: ăn ngoài (formal hơn eat out)
- depends on my schedule: tùy vào lịch trình
- grab a quick bite: ăn nhanh
- treat myself to: thưởng cho bản thân
- catch up with friends: gặp gỡ bạn bè để trò chuyện
Nếu bạn quan tâm đến việc cải thiện kỹ năng miêu tả các sự kiện đặc biệt, có thể tham khảo thêm cách How to describe a time you attended a special family event in IELTS Speaking để mở rộng vốn từ vựng và cấu trúc câu.
Question: Do you prefer eating at home or in a restaurant?
🎯 Cách tiếp cận:
- Đưa ra lựa chọn rõ ràng hoặc cân bằng (depends on…)
- So sánh ưu nhược điểm của cả hai
- Đưa ra ví dụ hoặc tình huống cụ thể
📝 Sample Answer – Band 6-7:
“I prefer eating at home most of the time. Home-cooked meals are healthier and cheaper. But sometimes I like going to restaurants for special occasions or when I want to try new dishes.”
Phân tích:
- Điểm mạnh: Đưa ra preference rõ ràng, có so sánh cơ bản
- Hạn chế: Thiếu depth trong phân tích, từ vựng đơn giản
- Tại sao Band 6-7: Trả lời đủ ý nhưng không impressive
📝 Sample Answer – Band 8-9:
“Well, it really comes down to the occasion. I’d say I’m more inclined towards home-cooked meals for day-to-day dining because I can control the ingredients and it’s definitely more budget-friendly. However, I do appreciate the ambiance and culinary expertise that restaurants offer – especially when I’m celebrating something special or simply want to indulge in dishes that are too time-consuming to prepare at home. So it’s really about striking a balance between the two.”
Phân tích:
- Điểm mạnh: Trả lời balanced và nuanced, từ vựng sophisticated (inclined towards, culinary expertise, ambiance), cấu trúc phức tạp với nhiều clauses
- Tại sao Band 8-9: Thể hiện khả năng analyze và compare một cách tự nhiên, sử dụng discourse markers hiệu quả (Well, However, So), vocabulary precise và appropriate
💡 Key Vocabulary & Expressions:
- comes down to: phụ thuộc vào, quyết định bởi
- inclined towards: có xu hướng, thiên về
- control the ingredients: kiểm soát nguyên liệu
- ambiance: bầu không khí, môi trường
- indulge in: thỏa mãn, chiều chuộng bản thân
- striking a balance: tạo sự cân bằng
IELTS Speaking Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)
Tổng Quan Về Part 2
Part 2 là phần độc thoại kéo dài 3-4 phút tổng cộng, trong đó bạn có 1 phút chuẩn bị và 2 phút để nói về một chủ đề cụ thể được cho trên cue card.
Đặc điểm chính:
- Thời gian chuẩn bị: 1 phút (được cung cấp giấy và bút để ghi chú)
- Thời gian trình bày: 2-3 phút (không bị gián đoạn)
- Phải trả lời đầy đủ tất cả các bullet points trên card
Chiến lược hiệu quả:
- Sử dụng đúng 1 phút để brainstorm và ghi keywords (KHÔNG viết câu hoàn chỉnh)
- Lên kế hoạch structure: Introduction → Main points theo bullets → Conclusion
- Nói đủ 2 phút (tối thiểu 1.5 phút) – nếu dừng quá sớm, examiner sẽ hỏi “Would you like to add anything?”
- Sử dụng thì quá khứ nếu đề bài yêu cầu kể về trải nghiệm đã qua
Lỗi thường gặp của học viên Việt Nam:
- Không tận dụng hết 1 phút chuẩn bị, vội vàng bắt đầu nói
- Nói không đủ 2 phút vì thiếu ý tưởng hoặc từ vựng
- Bỏ sót một hoặc nhiều bullet points
- Sử dụng sai thì động từ (dùng hiện tại khi đề yêu cầu quá khứ)
- Nói quá nhanh hoặc quá chậm, không tự nhiên
Cue Card
Describe a recent meal that you enjoyed
You should say:
- When and where you had this meal
- Who you were with
- What you ate
- And explain why you enjoyed this meal
Phân Tích Đề Bài
Dạng câu hỏi: Describe an experience/event (miêu tả một trải nghiệm cụ thể)
Thì động từ chính: Quá khứ đơn (Past Simple) vì đề yêu cầu “a recent meal” – một bữa ăn đã diễn ra
Bullet points phải cover:
- When and where: Thời gian cụ thể (tuần trước, tháng trước) và địa điểm (nhà hàng nào, nhà ai, khu vực nào)
- Who you were with: Người đi cùng (gia đình, bạn bè, đồng nghiệp, hay một mình)
- What you ate: Mô tả chi tiết các món ăn, nguyên liệu, cách chế biến
- Why you enjoyed: ĐÂY LÀ PHẦN QUAN TRỌNG NHẤT – giải thích lý do cảm thấy thích (hương vị, bầu không khí, kỷ niệm, người đi cùng)
Câu “explain” quan trọng: Đây là phần chiếm nhiều thời gian nhất và là nơi bạn thể hiện khả năng phân tích, diễn đạt cảm xúc. Đừng chỉ nói “because it was delicious” mà hãy elaborate: tại sao ngon, món ăn gợi lên cảm giác gì, trải nghiệm đó có ý nghĩa như thế nào.
Bữa ăn gia đình truyền thống Việt Nam với các món ăn đặc sản
📝 Sample Answer – Band 6-7
Thời lượng: Khoảng 1.5-2 phút
“I’d like to talk about a meal I had last month at a Vietnamese restaurant near my house. I went there with my family to celebrate my sister’s birthday.
We ordered several dishes including spring rolls, grilled pork, and pho, which is a famous Vietnamese noodle soup. The spring rolls were crispy and fresh, and the pho had a very good taste with tender beef and aromatic broth. We also had some fried rice and fresh vegetables.
I really enjoyed this meal for several reasons. First, the food was delicious and authentic. The restaurant used fresh ingredients and traditional recipes. Second, the atmosphere was nice and comfortable. The restaurant had traditional Vietnamese decorations and played soft music in the background.
But the main reason I enjoyed this meal was because I was with my family. We don’t often have the chance to eat together because everyone is busy with work and study. During this meal, we talked a lot, shared stories, and laughed together. My parents told us about their young days, and my sister was very happy because we surprised her with a birthday cake.
The combination of good food, nice atmosphere, and quality time with family made this meal really special and memorable for me. I think I will remember this meal for a long time.”
Phân Tích Band Điểm
| Tiêu chí | Band | Nhận xét |
|---|---|---|
| Fluency & Coherence | 6-7 | Trả lời khá trôi chảy, có sử dụng linking words cơ bản (first, second, but). Tuy nhiên thiếu các discourse markers nâng cao và một số chỗ hơi mechanical |
| Lexical Resource | 6-7 | Từ vựng phù hợp với chủ đề (crispy, aromatic, authentic) nhưng còn đơn giản. Thiếu các collocations và idioms nâng cao |
| Grammatical Range & Accuracy | 6-7 | Sử dụng đúng thì quá khứ, có một số câu phức (because, which) nhưng cấu trúc chưa đa dạng. Một số lỗi nhỏ về article |
| Pronunciation | 6-7 | Phát âm rõ ràng, dễ hiểu, có một số lỗi nhỏ về trọng âm nhưng không ảnh hưởng communication |
Điểm mạnh:
- ✅ Trả lời đầy đủ tất cả bullet points theo đúng thứ tự logic
- ✅ Có structure rõ ràng: introduction → dishes → reasons → conclusion
- ✅ Sử dụng đúng thì quá khứ xuyên suốt
- ✅ Có personal details và emotions
Hạn chế:
- ⚠️ Từ vựng chưa sophisticated, nhiều từ cơ bản (good taste, nice atmosphere)
- ⚠️ Thiếu varied sentence structures
- ⚠️ Mô tả món ăn chưa chi tiết, sinh động
📝 Sample Answer – Band 7.5-8
Thời lượng: Khoảng 2-2.5 phút
“I’d like to share with you a memorable dining experience I had about three weeks ago at a cozy family-run Vietnamese restaurant in the Old Quarter of Hanoi. It was a Saturday evening, and I was there with my parents and younger sister to celebrate my sister’s 18th birthday.
The restaurant had a really authentic ambiance – wooden furniture, traditional lanterns, and vintage photographs adorning the walls. We ordered an array of dishes including crispy spring rolls with homemade fish sauce, char-grilled pork served with vermicelli noodles, and their signature beef pho, which the restaurant is apparently renowned for.
What really struck me about the food was the attention to detail in every dish. The spring rolls were perfectly golden and crunchy, filled with fresh shrimp and vegetables. The pho had this incredibly rich and aromatic broth that had been simmered for hours – you could taste the complexity of the spices. The grilled pork was tender and flavourful, with just the right amount of caramelization on the outside.
However, what made this meal truly special wasn’t just the food itself. It was the warm atmosphere and the quality time I spent with my family. We’re all usually caught up in our own busy schedules, so having this uninterrupted time together was quite rare. My parents reminisced about their younger days, sharing stories we’d never heard before, and my sister was absolutely thrilled when we surprised her with a homemade birthday cake we’d secretly arranged with the restaurant owner.
I suppose what I enjoyed most was how everything came together – the authentic flavours, the cozy setting, and most importantly, the sense of togetherness. It reminded me that dining is about more than just eating; it’s about creating memories and strengthening bonds with the people you care about. This meal definitely left a lasting impression on me.”
Phân Tích Band Điểm
| Tiêu chí | Band | Nhận xét |
|---|---|---|
| Fluency & Coherence | 7.5-8 | Rất trôi chảy với discourse markers tự nhiên (However, I suppose). Ý tưởng được phát triển logic và cohesive |
| Lexical Resource | 7.5-8 | Từ vựng phong phú với nhiều collocations (array of dishes, renowned for, attention to detail). Paraphrasing tốt |
| Grammatical Range & Accuracy | 7.5-8 | Cấu trúc câu đa dạng (relative clauses, passive voice, -ing forms). Ít lỗi ngữ pháp |
| Pronunciation | 7.5-8 | Phát âm rõ ràng với intonation tự nhiên, stress patterns chính xác |
So Sánh Với Band 6-7
| Khía cạnh | Band 6-7 | Band 7.5-8 |
|---|---|---|
| Vocabulary | “good taste”, “nice atmosphere” | “incredibly rich and aromatic broth”, “authentic ambiance” |
| Grammar | “The food was delicious and authentic” | “What really struck me about the food was the attention to detail” (Cleft sentence) |
| Ideas | “We talked a lot and shared stories” | “Having this uninterrupted time together was quite rare… reminisced about their younger days” |
| Description | “The spring rolls were crispy and fresh” | “The spring rolls were perfectly golden and crunchy, filled with fresh shrimp and vegetables” |
Cách trả lời về các trải nghiệm cá nhân như thế này cũng có điểm tương đồng với việc describe a language you would like to learn and why – đều yêu cầu bạn giải thích động lực và cảm xúc sâu sắc đằng sau một trải nghiệm.
📝 Sample Answer – Band 8.5-9
Thời lượng: 2.5-3 phút đầy đủ
“I’d like to tell you about an absolutely exquisite dining experience I had just last month at a quaint little restaurant tucked away in the backstreets of Hanoi’s Old Quarter. It was a Saturday evening in late October, and I was there celebrating my younger sister’s milestone 18th birthday with my parents.
The restaurant itself was an absolute gem – the kind of place that exudes authenticity from every corner. Housed in a beautifully restored colonial building, it featured rustic wooden furnishings, antique lanterns casting a warm glow, and walls adorned with black-and-white photographs depicting Hanoi’s bygone era. The moment we stepped in, there was this palpable sense of nostalgia in the air.
Now, as for the food itself, we decided to go for a veritable feast of traditional Vietnamese dishes. We started with their house-special spring rolls – and I must say, they were nothing short of perfection. Each roll was impeccably crispy, with a delicate golden exterior that gave way to a succulent filling of fresh prawns, herbs, and vegetables. The accompanying fish sauce had this sublime balance of sweet, salty, and tangy flavors.
The pièce de résistance, though, was their legendary beef pho. The broth was extraordinarily complex – apparently slow-cooked for over 12 hours with star anise, cinnamon, and charred ginger. It had this incredibly deep, almost umami-rich flavor that was simultaneously comforting and sophisticated. The beef was melt-in-your-mouth tender, and the noodles had that perfect al dente texture.
But you know, what truly elevated this experience wasn’t merely the culinary excellence – though that certainly played a part. It was the confluence of multiple factors. For one thing, in our increasingly hectic lives, it’s become somewhat of a rarity to have uninterrupted quality time as a family. That evening, we were completely present in the moment, free from the usual distractions of phones and work emails.
My parents were particularly animated, regaling us with stories from their youth that we’d never heard before. My father waxed nostalgic about how he used to take my mother to a similar restaurant during their courtship days. And when we surprised my sister with the birthday cake we’d secretly arranged with the owner, the sheer joy on her face was simply priceless.
I think what resonated most deeply with me was the realization that meals like this transcend mere sustenance. They become vessels for connection, repositories of memories, and affirmations of the bonds we share with loved ones. The harmonious interplay between the exquisite cuisine, the evocative ambiance, and the warmth of familial love created an experience that was genuinely enriching. It’s the kind of meal that lingers in your memory long after the last dish has been cleared away, and I’m certain it’ll remain one of my most cherished recollections for years to come.”
Phân Tích Band Điểm
| Tiêu chí | Band | Nhận xét |
|---|---|---|
| Fluency & Coherence | 8.5-9 | Cực kỳ trôi chảy, tự nhiên với sophisticated discourse markers. Ý tưởng phát triển seamlessly với excellent cohesion |
| Lexical Resource | 8.5-9 | Từ vựng tinh vi, precise và idiomatic (exquisite, palpable, pièce de résistance). Paraphrasing xuất sắc, không lặp từ |
| Grammatical Range & Accuracy | 8.5-9 | Cấu trúc câu phức tạp và đa dạng (cleft sentences, inversion, participle clauses). Hầu như không có lỗi |
| Pronunciation | 8.5-9 | Native-like với excellent stress, rhythm và intonation. Clear và effortless communication |
Tại Sao Bài Này Xuất Sắc
🎯 Fluency Hoàn Hảo:
- Không có hesitation, fillers được sử dụng một cách tự nhiên và có mục đích (Now, But you know, I think)
- Mạch văn chảy liền mạch từ mô tả setting → food → emotional significance
- Sử dụng discourse markers tinh tế để signal transitions
📚 Vocabulary Tinh Vi:
- “Housed in a beautifully restored colonial building” – Cách diễn đạt sophisticated thay vì “The restaurant was in an old building”
- “Pièce de résistance” – Sử dụng French idiom một cách tự nhiên, thể hiện cultural awareness
- “Melt-in-your-mouth tender” – Collocation chuẩn mực trong food description
- “Waxed nostalgic” – Idiomatic expression thay vì “felt nostalgic”
- “Vessels for connection, repositories of memories” – Metaphorical language cho thấy khả năng suy nghĩ trừu tượng
📝 Grammar Đa Dạng:
- Cleft sentence: “What truly elevated this experience wasn’t merely the culinary excellence”
- Participle clauses: “Housed in a beautifully restored colonial building”
- Inversion: “The moment we stepped in, there was this palpable sense”
- Complex nominalization: “The harmonious interplay between… created an experience”
💡 Ideas Sâu Sắc:
- Không chỉ mô tả món ăn mà còn phân tích ý nghĩa sâu xa (“meals transcend mere sustenance”)
- Kết nối với broader themes về family, memory, và human connection
- Thể hiện philosophical depth trong cách nhìn về dining experience
Follow-up Questions (Rounding Off Questions)
Sau khi bạn hoàn thành phần nói 2 phút, examiner thường hỏi thêm 1-2 câu ngắn để kết thúc Part 2 trước khi chuyển sang Part 3:
Question 1: Would you go back to that restaurant again?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“Yes, definitely. The food was great and my family liked it very much. I think we will go there again for another special occasion.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“Absolutely, I’d jump at the chance to return. In fact, I’ve already been recommending it to friends and colleagues. There’s something about that place that just captures the essence of authentic Vietnamese cuisine, and I think it would be criminal not to revisit such a culinary gem.”
💡 Key differences:
- Band 8-9 sử dụng idioms tự nhiên (jump at the chance, criminal not to)
- Vocabulary precise hơn (captures the essence, culinary gem)
- Cấu trúc câu sophisticated hơn với multiple clauses
Question 2: Do you often celebrate special occasions with meals?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“Yes, my family usually has a special meal when we celebrate birthdays or holidays. We think eating together is a good way to celebrate and spend time with each other.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“It’s become something of a tradition in my family, actually. We tend to mark all our significant milestones with a meal together – whether it’s birthdays, promotions, or simply reuniting after someone’s been away. I suppose there’s something inherently communal about sharing food that makes it the perfect vehicle for celebration.”
💡 Key differences:
- Sử dụng phrases như “something of a tradition” và “mark milestones” thay vì “celebrate”
- Thể hiện critical thinking với “inherently communal” và “perfect vehicle”
- Natural fillers (actually, I suppose) làm câu trả lời nghe tự nhiên hơn
Nhà hàng Việt Nam truyền thống với không gian ấm cúng và đèn lồng đỏ
IELTS Speaking Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Tổng Quan Về Part 3
Part 3 kéo dài 4-5 phút và là phần khó nhất của IELTS Speaking. Đây là cuộc thảo luận hai chiều giữa bạn và examiner về các vấn đề trừu tượng, rộng hơn liên quan đến chủ đề Part 2.
Đặc điểm chính:
- Câu hỏi mang tính phân tích, đánh giá, so sánh
- Yêu cầu critical thinking và ability to discuss abstract concepts
- Không chỉ nói về bản thân mà về xã hội, văn hóa, xu hướng
Yêu cầu:
- Phân tích cause and effect
- So sánh quá khứ và hiện tại
- Đưa ra quan điểm cá nhân có lý lẽ
- Xem xét nhiều góc độ của vấn đề (both sides)
- Dự đoán tương lai hoặc đưa ra solutions
Chiến lược hiệu quả:
- Trả lời đầy đủ (3-5 câu mỗi câu hỏi)
- Structure: Direct answer → Reason/Explanation → Example → Additional point/Conclusion
- Sử dụng discourse markers để organize ideas
- Thừa nhận complexity: “It depends on…”, “There are multiple factors…”
- Sử dụng tentative language: “I would say…”, “It seems to me…”
Lỗi thường gặp của học viên Việt Nam:
- Trả lời quá ngắn như Part 1
- Không phân tích sâu, chỉ nêu opinion mà không có reasoning
- Thiếu từ vựng trừu tượng (abstract nouns)
- Chỉ nói về personal experience thay vì societal perspective
- Không nhìn nhận vấn đề từ nhiều góc độ
Các Câu Hỏi Thảo Luận Sâu
Theme 1: Food Culture and Society
Question 1: How have eating habits changed in your country over the past few decades?
🎯 Phân tích câu hỏi:
- Dạng: Compare (Past vs Present) – So sánh thay đổi theo thời gian
- Key words: eating habits, changed, past few decades
- Cách tiếp cận: Nêu 2-3 thay đổi lớn với reasons, có thể đề cập positive/negative aspects
📝 Sample Answer – Band 6-7:
“Eating habits in Vietnam have changed a lot in recent years. In the past, people usually ate traditional Vietnamese food at home. Now, many people, especially young people, like to eat fast food and foreign cuisine. Also, people are busier now, so they often buy food from restaurants or food delivery instead of cooking at home. I think this is because of modern lifestyle and Western influence.”
Phân tích:
- Structure: Có comparison giữa past và present
- Vocabulary: Adequate nhưng general (changed a lot, busy, modern lifestyle)
- Tại sao Band 6-7: Đáp ứng yêu cầu cơ bản nhưng thiếu depth trong analysis và specific vocabulary
📝 Câu trả lời mẫu – Band 8-9:
“Well, I’d say there’s been quite a dramatic transformation in Vietnamese eating habits over the last few decades. Back in the day, meals were predominantly home-cooked affairs, with families gathering around traditional dishes passed down through generations. However, we’ve witnessed a marked shift towards convenience-oriented eating in recent years.
For one thing, the proliferation of fast-food chains and international restaurants has fundamentally altered the culinary landscape. Young people, in particular, have embraced Western-style dining and fusion cuisine, which would have been virtually unheard of 30 years ago. On top of that, the advent of food delivery apps has revolutionized how people access meals – it’s now effortless to have restaurant-quality food delivered to your doorstep within minutes.
What’s driving this change, I believe, is a combination of factors. Urbanization has led to more hectic lifestyles, leaving people with less time for traditional meal preparation. There’s also been a generational shift in values, with younger Vietnamese prioritizing convenience over culinary tradition. That said, I think we’re now seeing a counter-movement where people are rediscovering the value of home-cooked meals and traditional recipes, partly driven by health consciousness and a desire to reconnect with cultural roots.”
Phân tích:
- Structure: Well-organized: General statement → Specific changes (fast food, delivery) → Reasons → Nuanced conclusion with counter-trend
- Vocabulary: Sophisticated and precise (proliferation, advent, counter-movement, reconnect with cultural roots)
- Grammar: Complex structures with multiple clauses, perfect use of present perfect for changes over time
- Critical Thinking: Không chỉ liệt kê changes mà còn explain causes và acknowledge complexity với counter-trend
💡 Key Language Features:
- Discourse markers: Well, For one thing, On top of that, That said
- Time markers: Back in the day, over the last few decades, in recent years
- Abstract nouns: transformation, proliferation, advent, urbanization, generational shift
- Academic collocations: dramatic transformation, marked shift, fundamentally altered
Question 2: Why do you think people enjoy eating out at restaurants rather than cooking at home?
🎯 Phân tích câu hỏi:
- Dạng: Cause/Reason – Giải thích nguyên nhân của một hiện tượng
- Key words: enjoy, eating out, rather than cooking
- Cách tiếp cận: Đưa ra 2-3 reasons với explanations và examples
📝 Sample Answer – Band 6-7:
“I think there are several reasons why people prefer eating out. First, it saves time because they don’t need to buy ingredients and cook. Second, restaurant food often tastes better because professional chefs cook it. Also, eating out is more convenient and people can try different types of food. Finally, going to restaurants is a social activity where people can meet friends and relax.”
Phân tích:
- Structure: Clear với first, second, also, finally
- Vocabulary: Basic but appropriate (saves time, convenient, social activity)
- Tại sao Band 6-7: Trả lời đủ ý nhưng explanation chưa deep, thiếu sophisticated language
📝 Câu trả lời mẫu – Band 8-9:
“I think this preference stems from a variety of interconnected factors. From a practical standpoint, dining out eliminates the entire labor-intensive process of meal preparation – from grocery shopping to cooking to cleaning up afterwards. In today’s time-pressed society, this convenience factor simply can’t be overstated.
Beyond mere convenience, though, I’d argue that restaurants offer an experiential dimension that home cooking often lacks. Professional chefs bring technical expertise and culinary creativity that most home cooks simply can’t replicate. There’s also the sensory experience of dining out – the ambiance, the presentation, the element of being served – which adds a layer of indulgence to the meal.
What’s more, restaurants have become important social venues in modern life. They provide neutral territory for meeting friends, celebrating occasions, or even conducting business. The social aspect transforms eating from a purely utilitarian activity into a meaningful social ritual.
However, I should mention that this trend isn’t universal across all demographics. Older generations or those conscious of health and budget might still lean towards home cooking. But by and large, the combination of convenience, quality, and social appeal makes dining out an increasingly attractive option for many people.”
Phân tích:
- Structure: Sophisticated: Practical reasons → Experiential factors → Social dimension → Nuanced conclusion acknowledging exceptions
- Vocabulary: Precise and academic (stems from, labor-intensive, can’t be overstated, utilitarian activity, by and large)
- Grammar: Complex sentences with embedding and subordination
- Critical Thinking: Đa chiều analysis, không chỉ liệt kê reasons mà còn explain connections và acknowledge complexity
💡 Key Language Features:
- Tentative language: I’d argue that, I should mention, I think this stems from
- Discourse markers: Beyond, What’s more, However, But by and large
- Abstract concepts: experiential dimension, neutral territory, meaningful social ritual
- Hedging: often lacks, simply can’t replicate, isn’t universal
Khi thảo luận về các yếu tố ảnh hưởng đến lựa chọn của con người, bạn có thể áp dụng kỹ thuật phân tích tương tự như trong chủ đề describe a famous sports personality from your country, nơi cũng yêu cầu giải thích các yếu tố xã hội và văn hóa.
Question 3: Do you think traditional food will disappear in the future?
🎯 Phân tích câu hỏi:
- Dạng: Prediction/Opinion – Dự đoán tương lai và đưa ra quan điểm
- Key words: traditional food, disappear, future
- Cách tiếp cận: Đưa ra stance (Yes/No/Depends) → Reasons → Counter-argument → Balanced conclusion
📝 Sample Answer – Band 6-7:
“I don’t think traditional food will completely disappear. Although modern food is becoming popular, many people still like traditional dishes. In Vietnam, people still eat pho and spring rolls regularly. Also, governments are trying to preserve traditional food culture. However, some traditional dishes might become less common because young people prefer modern food.”
Phân tích:
- Structure: Có stance rõ ràng và reasons
- Vocabulary: Simple (completely disappear, becoming popular, preserve)
- Tại sao Band 6-7: Answer đơn giản, thiếu nuanced discussion và sophisticated language
📝 Câu trả lời mẫu – Band 8-9:
“I’d say it’s highly unlikely that traditional cuisine will vanish entirely, though it may undergo significant transformations. The key lies in understanding that food is intrinsically tied to cultural identity, and there’s typically strong resistance to the complete erosion of culinary heritage.
What we’re more likely to see is a kind of evolution rather than extinction. Traditional dishes might be adapted to suit contemporary tastes or reinterpreted by modern chefs who bring innovative techniques to classic recipes. In Vietnam, for instance, we’re witnessing the rise of nouveau Vietnamese cuisine – restaurants that honor traditional flavors while embracing modern presentation and fusion elements.
Moreover, there’s been a growing movement towards cultural preservation and culinary nationalism in many countries. People are increasingly recognizing the value of their gastronomic heritage, and governments and NGOs are actively documenting and safeguarding traditional food preparation methods. This heightened awareness acts as a counterbalance to globalization pressures.
That being said, certain lesser-known regional dishes or those requiring labor-intensive preparation might indeed fall out of practice as older generations pass on and younger ones lack the skills or inclination to continue the traditions. The reality is probably somewhere in the middle – mainstream traditional foods will endure and evolve, while some obscure specialties may fade into history.
Ultimately, I believe food culture is remarkably resilient. As long as there are people who value their culinary roots and find meaning in traditional recipes, these dishes will continue to exist in some form, even if they undergo adaptation to remain relevant in changing times.”
Phân tích:
- Structure: Highly sophisticated: Clear stance → Evolution vs extinction concept → Preservation movement → Acknowledgment of risks → Balanced conclusion
- Vocabulary: Advanced and precise (intrinsically tied to, erosion of heritage, nouveau cuisine, gastronomic heritage, counterbalance)
- Grammar: Complex structures including conditional clauses, nominalization, and embedding
- Critical Thinking: Nuanced view acknowledging both preservation trends and risks, showing intellectual depth
💡 Key Language Features:
- Hedging and tentative language: I’d say, highly unlikely, more likely to see, probably somewhere in the middle
- Contrasting ideas: rather than, while, That being said, acts as a counterbalance
- Abstract conceptualization: evolution rather than extinction, resilience, culinary nationalism
- Sophisticated vocabulary: intrinsically, erosion, gastronomic, counterbalance, endure
Theme 2: Health and Nutrition
Question 4: Is it important for children to learn to cook at a young age?
🎯 Phân tích câu hỏi:
- Dạng: Opinion + Justification
- Key words: important, children, learn to cook, young age
- Cách tiếp cận: Stance → Benefits → Potential challenges → Balanced view
📝 Sample Answer – Band 6-7:
“Yes, I think it’s important for children to learn cooking. First, it’s a useful life skill they will need when they grow up and live independently. Second, when children cook, they learn about healthy food and nutrition. Also, cooking together is a good family activity. However, parents should supervise children carefully because cooking can be dangerous for young kids.”
Phân tích:
- Structure: Clear position với multiple reasons
- Vocabulary: Adequate (useful life skill, nutrition, supervise)
- Tại sao Band 6-7: Straightforward answer nhưng thiếu depth và sophisticated expression
📝 Câu trả lời mẫu – Band 8-9:
“Absolutely, I’d go so far as to say it’s one of the most valuable life skills children can acquire. Learning to cook at a young age instills numerous benefits that extend far beyond the kitchen.
From a practical perspective, cooking equips children with essential self-sufficiency skills they’ll inevitably need as adults. But more importantly, it fosters a healthier relationship with food. Children who understand how meals are prepared tend to be more conscious of nutritional value and less likely to rely on processed foods. There’s also evidence suggesting that kids who cook are generally more adventurous eaters and more willing to try new ingredients.
Beyond the practical advantages, cooking serves as an excellent educational tool. It incorporates mathematics through measuring ingredients, chemistry through understanding how ingredients interact, and even cultural education through exploring different cuisines. What’s more, the process of following recipes cultivates important skills like following instructions, planning ahead, and problem-solving when things don’t go as expected.
There’s also a psychological dimension worth considering. Cooking can be incredibly empowering for children – the sense of accomplishment when they create something edible boosts their confidence and sense of competence. Plus, it’s an activity that naturally facilitates quality family time and intergenerational knowledge transfer.
Of course, this needs to be age-appropriate and properly supervised, especially when dealing with sharp objects or heat. But with proper guidance, the benefits substantially outweigh the risks. In an era where many adults lack basic culinary competence, early cooking education could help reverse this concerning trend.”
Phân tích:
- Structure: Clear stance with extensive elaboration: Practical → Educational → Psychological → Caveat about safety → Strong conclusion
- Vocabulary: Sophisticated (instills, fosters, cultivates, empowering, intergenerational knowledge transfer)
- Grammar: Varied structures including participial phrases, relative clauses, and conditional implications
- Critical Thinking: Multi-dimensional analysis covering practical, educational, and psychological aspects, với acknowledgment of safety concerns
💡 Key Language Features:
- Strong opening: Absolutely, I’d go so far as to say
- Multiple dimensions: From a practical perspective, Beyond, There’s also a psychological dimension
- Academic vocabulary: instills, fosters, cultivates, empowering, substantially outweigh
- Balanced view: Of course, this needs to be…, But with proper guidance…
Trẻ em đang học nấu ăn cùng gia đình trong bếp
Question 5: How can governments encourage people to eat more healthily?
🎯 Phân tích câu hỏi:
- Dạng: Problem-Solution
- Key words: governments, encourage, eat healthily
- Cách tiếp cận: Suggest 2-3 solutions với explanation về effectiveness
📝 Sample Answer – Band 6-7:
“Governments can do several things to promote healthy eating. They can educate people about nutrition in schools and through media campaigns. They can also make healthy food cheaper by giving subsidies to farmers. Another way is to put taxes on unhealthy food like sugary drinks. Finally, governments should provide clear food labels so people know what they’re eating.”
Phân tích:
- Structure: Multiple solutions listed clearly
- Vocabulary: Appropriate but general (educate, subsidies, taxes, food labels)
- Tại sao Band 6-7: Good range of ideas nhưng explanation shallow
📝 Câu trả lời mẫu – Band 8-9:
“Well, I believe governments have multiple levers they can pull to promote healthier eating habits, and the most effective approach would likely involve a combination of strategies.
First and foremost, education is crucial. Governments could integrate comprehensive nutrition education into school curricula from an early age, teaching children not just about healthy food choices but also practical cooking skills. This kind of foundational knowledge can shape lifelong eating behaviors. Complementing this, public health campaigns using various media channels could raise awareness about the long-term consequences of poor diet and the benefits of nutritious eating.
From an economic standpoint, governments could implement fiscal policies that make healthy choices more accessible. This might include subsidizing fresh produce to reduce costs, or conversely, imposing taxes on items with excessive sugar content or trans fats – the so-called “sin taxes.” Evidence from countries like Mexico, which introduced a soda tax, suggests such measures can significantly reduce consumption of unhealthy products.
Regulatory approaches also have merit. Governments could mandate clearer nutritional labeling, require restaurants to display calorie information, or even restrict advertising of junk food during children’s television programming. Some countries have gone further, banning certain ingredients like artificial trans fats altogether.
Infrastructure development is another avenue – creating more farmers’ markets, ensuring food deserts have access to fresh produce, or incentivizing grocery stores to open in underserved areas.
However, it’s worth noting that these measures work best when they’re not overly paternalistic but rather empower people to make informed choices. The goal should be to create an environment where the healthy choice is also the easy choice, without completely restricting individual freedom. A delicate balance needs to be struck between public health imperatives and personal autonomy.”
Phân tích:
- Structure: Comprehensive and well-organized: Education → Economic measures → Regulation → Infrastructure → Philosophical consideration about balance
- Vocabulary: Sophisticated policy language (levers they can pull, fiscal policies, sin taxes, paternalistic, public health imperatives)
- Grammar: Complex sentences with multiple levels of embedding and subordination
- Critical Thinking: Not just listing solutions but evaluating effectiveness, citing examples, and considering philosophical implications
💡 Key Language Features:
- Policy vocabulary: implement fiscal policies, mandate, subsidizing, imposing taxes, regulatory approaches
- Discourse markers: First and foremost, From an economic standpoint, However, it’s worth noting
- Evidence-based: Evidence from countries like Mexico suggests…
- Nuanced conclusion: A delicate balance needs to be struck…
Theme 3: Food and Globalization
Question 6: What are the advantages and disadvantages of having international food chains in your country?
🎯 Phân tích câu hỏi:
- Dạng: Advantages/Disadvantages – Discuss both sides
- Key words: advantages, disadvantages, international food chains
- Cách tiếp cận: Present both sides balanced → Personal view/conclusion
📝 Sample Answer – Band 6-7:
“International food chains have both good and bad effects. On the positive side, they create jobs and bring new food choices to people. They also follow high standards of hygiene and quality. On the negative side, they can harm local restaurants and traditional food culture. Also, their food is often unhealthy with lots of fat and sugar. I think the disadvantages are bigger because we should protect our local food culture.”
Phân tích:
- Structure: Clear separation of advantages and disadvantages
- Vocabulary: Basic (good and bad effects, create jobs, harm)
- Tại sao Band 6-7: Addresses both sides nhưng analysis superficial
📝 Câu trả lời mẫu – Band 8-9:
“This is quite a nuanced issue with legitimate arguments on both sides.
On the positive side, international chains do bring certain benefits. They inject capital into the local economy and create employment opportunities, albeit often low-wage positions. From a consumer perspective, they offer standardized quality and predictable experiences – you know exactly what you’re getting, which some people find reassuring. These chains also introduce new cuisines and dining concepts that might otherwise be inaccessible, potentially broadening people’s culinary horizons.
However, the drawbacks are substantial and arguably outweigh these advantages. Perhaps most significantly, these chains pose a genuine threat to local food businesses and traditional culinary culture. When a multinational fast-food giant opens on every corner, smaller, family-run restaurants often can’t compete with their aggressive marketing and economies of scale. This leads to a homogenization of food culture – you see the same chains in Bangkok, Hanoi, and Jakarta, eroding the distinctive character of each place.
From a health perspective, the concern is well-founded. Many international chains specialize in highly processed, calorie-dense foods that contribute to rising obesity rates and related health issues. There’s also the environmental dimension – these chains often prioritize convenience over sustainability, generating enormous amounts of packaging waste and contributing to global supply chains with significant carbon footprints.
What troubles me most, though, is the cultural imperialism aspect. The proliferation of Western fast-food chains can subtly shift eating habits and preferences, particularly among younger generations, potentially undermining traditional food knowledge and practices that have been passed down through centuries.
In my view, while we can’t and perhaps shouldn’t completely exclude international chains – they’re part of the global reality – countries need to implement regulations that level the playing field for local businesses and preserve culinary heritage. The goal should be diversity and coexistence rather than allowing market forces to eliminate local alternatives entirely.”
Phân tích:
- Structure: Exceptionally well-organized: Acknowledging both sides → Advantages (brief) → Disadvantages (detailed) → Personal stance with nuanced conclusion
- Vocabulary: Sophisticated (nuanced issue, inject capital, homogenization, cultural imperialism, proliferation)
- Grammar: Complex structures with multiple clauses and sophisticated nominalization
- Critical Thinking: Deep analysis covering economic, cultural, health, and environmental dimensions, với philosophical reflection on globalization
💡 Key Language Features:
- Tentative language: arguably, perhaps most significantly, in my view
- Contrasting structures: On the positive side… However, the drawbacks…
- Abstract concepts: homogenization, cultural imperialism, culinary heritage, market forces
- Sophisticated expressions: outweigh the advantages, well-founded concern, level the playing field
Trong việc phân tích các vấn đề xã hội phức tạp này, kỹ năng critical thinking tương tự cũng được áp dụng khi bạn Describe a time when you had to work with a difficult team member, nơi bạn cần xem xét nhiều góc độ của tình huống.
Question 7: Do you think people care more about food quality or price when they choose what to eat?
🎯 Phân tích câu hỏi:
- Dạng: Compare – So sánh hai yếu tố
- Key words: care more, food quality, price, choose
- Cách tiếp cận: Present both factors → Explain which matters more (có thể “it depends”) → Reasons
📝 Sample Answer – Band 6-7:
“I think it depends on different people. Rich people probably care more about quality because they can afford good food. But for poor people or students, price is more important because they have limited money. Young people might choose quality for health reasons, while older people have their own preferences. Both factors are important but for different groups.”
Phân tích:
- Structure: Acknowledgment that it varies by group
- Vocabulary: Basic (rich people, poor people, limited money)
- Tại sao Band 6-7: Shows some awareness of nuance nhưng analysis shallow và vocabulary limited
📝 Câu trả lời mẫu – Band 8-9:
“Well, I think this really hinges on a variety of factors, and the answer is far from straightforward.
Socioeconomic status undoubtedly plays a pivotal role. For affluent consumers, quality typically takes precedence – they have the financial flexibility to prioritize organic produce, premium ingredients, or dining at upscale establishments. They can afford to be discerning about sourcing, preparation methods, and nutritional value. Conversely, for lower-income households, price is often the primary driver of food choices. When you’re operating on a tight budget, the immediate concern is getting adequate calories at minimal cost, and quality considerations become a luxury you can’t afford.
However, the picture is becoming increasingly complex. There’s been a notable shift in consumer consciousness, particularly among millennials and Gen Z, who demonstrate a willingness to pay premium prices for food that aligns with their values – whether that’s organic, locally sourced, ethically produced, or environmentally sustainable. For this demographic, “quality” encompasses not just taste or nutrition but also ethical considerations.
Cultural factors also come into play. In some Asian cultures, including Vietnamese, there’s traditionally been a strong emphasis on fresh, quality ingredients, even among those with modest means. The daily ritual of visiting fresh markets to select produce is deeply ingrained, suggesting that quality concerns transcend economic boundaries to some extent.
That said, I think we’re seeing a growing polarization. On one end, there’s an expanding market for premium, health-conscious food options. On the other, processed, budget-friendly foods continue to dominate among price-sensitive consumers. The middle ground is increasingly squeezed.
Ultimately, while price remains a fundamental constraint for many, there’s a discernible trend towards valuing quality, driven by heightened awareness of health issues, environmental concerns, and food safety scandals. But this is still largely a privilege of those with sufficient disposable income – and that’s a reality we can’t ignore.”
Phân tích:
- Structure: Highly sophisticated: Acknowledge complexity → Socioeconomic factor → Emerging trends → Cultural dimension → Polarization observation → Balanced conclusion
- Vocabulary: Advanced (hinges on, pivotal role, discerning, encompasses, transcend, polarization)
- Grammar: Complex with multiple embedded clauses and sophisticated nominalization
- Critical Thinking: Multi-layered analysis considering economic, generational, cultural factors, với acknowledgment of ongoing social changes
💡 Key Language Features:
- Academic expressions: hinges on, plays a pivotal role, comes into play, encompasses
- Contrasting structures: Conversely, On one end… On the other, That said
- Nuanced discussion: far from straightforward, increasingly complex, discernible trend
- Socioeconomic awareness: affluent consumers, lower-income households, sufficient disposable income
Từ vựng và cụm từ quan trọng
Topic-Specific Vocabulary
| Từ vựng/Cụm từ | Loại từ | Phiên âm | Nghĩa tiếng Việt | Ví dụ | Collocation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| exquisite | adj | /ɪkˈskwɪzɪt/ | tinh tế, tuyệt hảo | The restaurant served exquisite French cuisine. | exquisite taste, exquisite dining, exquisite cuisine |
| aromatic | adj | /ˌærəˈmætɪk/ | thơm, có mùi thơm | The aromatic broth was simmered for hours. | aromatic herbs, aromatic spices, aromatic broth |
| succulent | adj | /ˈsʌkjələnt/ | mọng nước, ngon ngọt | The meat was perfectly cooked and succulent. | succulent chicken, succulent seafood, succulent dish |
| pièce de résistance | n | /pjɛs də rezɪsˈtɑ̃s/ | món chính, món đặc biệt nhất | The chocolate soufflé was the pièce de résistance of the meal. | culinary pièce de résistance |
| culinary | adj | /ˈkʌlɪnəri/ | thuộc về ẩm thực | She has excellent culinary skills. | culinary arts, culinary expertise, culinary tradition |
| delicacy | n | /ˈdelɪkəsi/ | món ăn cao cấp/đặc sản | Oysters are considered a delicacy in many countries. | local delicacy, regional delicacy, rare delicacy |
| melt-in-your-mouth | adj | /melt ɪn jɔː maʊθ/ | tan chảy trong miệng, mềm mại | The steak was so tender it was melt-in-your-mouth. | melt-in-your-mouth texture, melt-in-your-mouth tender |
| palate | n | /ˈpælət/ | vị giác, khẩu vị | This wine will appeal to sophisticated palates. | refined palate, discerning palate, cleanse your palate |
| gastronomic | adj | /ˌɡæstrəˈnɒmɪk/ | thuộc về ẩm thực cao cấp | We enjoyed a gastronomic adventure in Italy. | gastronomic experience, gastronomic delight, gastronomic heritage |
| savory | adj | /ˈseɪvəri/ | mặn, vị mặn đậm đà | I prefer savory dishes to sweet ones. | savory flavor, savory snacks, savory dishes |
| umami | n | /uːˈmɑːmi/ | vị umami (vị thứ 5) | The broth had a rich umami flavor. | umami taste, umami-rich, umami flavor |
| al dente | adj | /æl ˈdente/ | độ chín vừa (mì pasta) | The pasta was cooked al dente, just as I like it. | cooked al dente, al dente texture |
| caramelized | adj | /ˈkærəməlaɪzd/ | được caramel hóa | The caramelized onions added sweetness to the dish. | caramelized sugar, caramelized exterior |
| zest | n | /zest/ | vỏ chanh bào, hương vị mạnh | Add lemon zest for extra flavor. | lemon zest, orange zest, add zest |
| garnish | n/v | /ˈɡɑːnɪʃ/ | trang trí món ăn | The chef garnished the dish with fresh herbs. | garnish with, decorative garnish |
| marinate | v | /ˈmærɪneɪt/ | ướp, ngâm gia vị | Marinate the chicken for at least two hours. | marinate overnight, well-marinated |
| sauté | v | /səʊˈteɪ/ | xào, áp chảo | Sauté the vegetables until they’re golden. | sauté lightly, sautéed mushrooms |
| simmer | v | /ˈsɪmə/ | ninh liu riu, hầm nhỏ lửa | Let the sauce simmer for 20 minutes. | simmer gently, bring to a simmer |
| indulgent | adj | /ɪnˈdʌldʒənt/ | xa xỉ, thỏa mãn | The dessert was rich and indulgent. | indulgent treat, indulgent meal |
| wholesome | adj | /ˈhəʊlsəm/ | bổ dưỡng, lành mạnh | She prepares wholesome meals for her family. | wholesome food, wholesome ingredients |
Idiomatic Expressions & Advanced Phrases
| Cụm từ | Nghĩa | Ví dụ sử dụng | Band điểm |
|---|---|---|---|
| to whet someone’s appetite | kích thích vị giác, gây thèm ăn | The appetizer really whetted my appetite for the main course. | 7.5-9 |
| food for thought | điều đáng suy ngẫm | The documentary about food waste gave me food for thought. | 7-8.5 |
| acquire a taste for | dần yêu thích (món lạ) | It took me years to acquire a taste for blue cheese. | 7.5-8.5 |
| hit the spot | đúng ý, thỏa mãn | That cold beer really hit the spot on a hot day. | 7-8 |
| to have a sweet tooth | thích đồ ngọt | I have a terrible sweet tooth – I can’t resist desserts. | 6.5-7.5 |
| comfort food | món ăn mang lại cảm giác thoải mái | Chicken soup is my go-to comfort food when I’m feeling down. | 7-8 |
| culinary journey | hành trình khám phá ẩm thực | The tasting menu took us on a culinary journey through Italy. | 7.5-9 |
| feast for the senses | tiệc cho các giác quan | The presentation was so beautiful – truly a feast for the senses. | 8-9 |
| to cook from scratch | nấu từ đầu, tự làm hoàn toàn | She always cooks from scratch rather than using pre-made ingredients. | 7-8 |
| food miles | khoảng cách vận chuyển thực phẩm | We try to reduce food miles by buying locally. | 7.5-8.5 |
| farm-to-table | từ trang trại đến bàn ăn | This restaurant specializes in farm-to-table dining. | 7.5-8.5 |
| guilty pleasure | thú vui tội lỗi | Fast food is my guilty pleasure – I know it’s unhealthy but I love it. | 7-8.5 |
Khi miêu tả các trải nghiệm văn hóa qua ẩm thực, bạn có thể vận dụng các kỹ thuật tương tự như khi describe a tourist attraction that is popular in your country, nơi cũng yêu cầu mô tả chi tiết và giải thích ý nghĩa văn hóa.
Discourse Markers (Từ Nối Ý Trong Speaking)
Để bắt đầu câu trả lời:
- 📝 Well,… – Sử dụng khi cần thời gian suy nghĩ ngắn
- 📝 Actually,… – Khi muốn đưa ra góc nhìn khác hoặc điều chỉnh
- 📝 To be honest,… – Khi muốn thể hiện sự thành thật
- 📝 I’d say that… – Khi đưa ra quan điểm có tính cân nhắc
- 📝 From my perspective,… – Nhấn mạnh quan điểm cá nhân
Để bổ sung ý:
- 📝 On top of that,… – Thêm vào đó, hơn nữa
- 📝 What’s more,… – Hơn thế nữa
- 📝 Not to mention… – Chưa kể đến
- 📝 Beyond that,… – Xa hơn điều đó
- 📝 In addition to this,… – Thêm vào điều này
Để đưa ra quan điểm cân bằng:
- 📝 On the one hand,… On the other hand,… – Một mặt… mặt khác
- 📝 While it’s true that…, we also need to consider… – Dù đúng là… nhưng ta cũng cần xem xét
- 📝 That said,… – Tuy nhiên, mặc dù vậy
- 📝 Having said that,… – Nói như vậy nhưng
- 📝 Conversely,… – Ngược lại
Để kết luận:
- 📝 All in all,… – Tóm lại, nhìn chung
- 📝 At the end of the day,… – Cuối cùng thì
- 📝 Ultimately,… – Rốt cuộc, sau cùng
- 📝 By and large,… – Nhìn chung, đại thể
- 📝 All things considered,… – Xét mọi khía cạnh
Để thể hiện sự không chắc chắn/tentative:
- 📝 I would say… – Tôi có thể nói rằng
- 📝 It seems to me that… – Có vẻ như với tôi
- 📝 From what I understand,… – Theo những gì tôi hiểu
- 📝 As far as I can tell,… – Theo những gì tôi có thể nói
- 📝 I’d imagine that… – Tôi tưởng tượng rằng
Grammatical Structures Ấn Tượng
1. Conditional Sentences (Câu điều kiện):
Mixed conditional (Type 2 + Type 3):
- Formula: If + Past Simple, would + Present Infinitive / If + Past Perfect, would + have + Past Participle
- Ví dụ: “If people understood more about nutrition, they would make healthier food choices.” / “If I had known about that restaurant earlier, I would have taken my family there.”
Inversion (Đảo ngữ):
- Formula: Were/Had/Should + Subject + Verb
- Ví dụ: “Were I to open a restaurant, I would focus on traditional Vietnamese cuisine.” / “Had I known the portions were so large, I wouldn’t have ordered so much.”
2. Relative Clauses (Mệnh đề quan hệ):
Non-defining relative clauses:
- Formula: …, which/who/where + clause,…
- Ví dụ: “The restaurant, which had been recommended by a friend, exceeded all my expectations.” / “My grandmother, who was an excellent cook, taught me everything I know about traditional recipes.”
3. Passive Voice (Câu bị động):
Impersonal passive:
- Formula: It is thought/believed/said that…
- Ví dụ: “It is believed that traditional diets are healthier than modern processed foods.” / “It has been suggested that eating family meals together strengthens relationships.”
4. Cleft Sentences (Câu chẻ):
What-cleft:
- Formula: What + clause + is/was…
- Ví dụ: “What I find most appealing about home-cooked meals is the personal touch and care involved.” / “What really struck me about that restaurant was the attention to detail in presentation.”
It-cleft:
- Formula: It + is/was + noun phrase + that/who…
- Ví dụ: “It was the ambiance that made the meal so memorable, not just the food.” / “It’s the freshness of ingredients that makes Vietnamese cuisine so distinctive.”
The thing/reason-cleft:
- Formula: The thing/reason that… is…
- Ví dụ: “The thing that impressed me most was how they balanced traditional and modern cooking techniques.” / “The reason I prefer eating at home is that I can control exactly what goes into my food.”
5. Participle Clauses (Mệnh đề phân từ):
Present participle (-ing):
- Ví dụ: “Having grown up in a family of food lovers, I developed a passion for cooking early on.” / “Not knowing what to order, I asked the waiter for recommendations.”
Past participle (-ed):
- Ví dụ: “Prepared with fresh, local ingredients, the dish was absolutely delicious.” / “Raised in a culture that values culinary traditions, I appreciate authentic flavors.”
6. Nominalization (Danh từ hóa):
-
Thay vì: “People eat differently now than they did before.”
-
Nâng cao: “There has been a dramatic transformation in eating habits.”
-
Thay vì: “More people are aware of health issues now.”
-
Nâng cao: “There is heightened health consciousness among consumers.”
7. Fronting for Emphasis (Đảo trạng ngữ lên đầu):
- Ví dụ: “Rarely have I tasted such exquisite cuisine.” / “Not only was the food delicious, but the service was also impeccable.”
Những Lưu Ý Cuối Cùng Từ Examiner
Sau hơn 20 năm làm examiner, tôi muốn chia sẻ một số insights quan trọng về chủ đề “describe a recent meal that you enjoyed”:
✅ Những điều nên làm:
-
Chọn một bữa ăn thực sự đặc biệt: Đừng chọn một bữa ăn bình thường. Hãy chọn một trải nghiệm có ý nghĩa – có thể là celebration, reunion, hoặc discovery của một món ăn mới.
-
Sử dụng multiple senses: Không chỉ nói về taste. Mô tả aroma (mùi thơm), texture (kết cấu), appearance (hình thức), và ngay cả sounds (âm thanh) nếu liên quan.
-
Balance description với emotion: Examiner muốn nghe về feelings và personal significance, không chỉ là danh sách món ăn.
-
Vary your vocabulary: Thay vì lặp lại “delicious” nhiều lần, hãy dùng: exquisite, delectable, mouth-watering, divine, scrumptious.
-
Show cultural awareness: Nếu đề cập món ăn đặc trưng văn hóa nào, hãy giải thích ngắn gọn cho examiner hiểu context.
❌ Những điều nên tránh:
-
Đừng fake experience: Examiner có thể nhận ra khi bạn đang nói về điều không thật qua lack of details và inconsistencies trong follow-up questions.
-
Tránh quá technical: Bạn không cần biết tất cả thuật ngữ cooking chuyên nghiệp. Sử dụng ngôn ngữ tự nhiên, dễ hiểu.
-
Đừng quá focus vào price: Nói về giá cả quá nhiều có thể làm câu trả lời nghe shallow. Focus vào experience và quality.
-
Tránh negative tone: Ngay cả khi nói về challenges (như món ăn mất nhiều thời gian chuẩn bị), hãy kết thúc positive.
-
Đừng memorize word-for-word: Template nghe rất obvious. Examiner muốn nghe spontaneous language, không phải recitation.
🎯 Chiến lược band 8+ cho chủ đề này:
- Storytelling: Biến câu trả lời thành một câu chuyện có beginning, middle, end thay vì chỉ list information
- Sophisticated vocabulary: Sử dụng collocations tự nhiên (acquired taste, culinary journey, symphony of flavors)
- Personal reflection: Kết nối với broader themes (family bonds, cultural identity, mindful eating)
- Varied grammar: Demonstrate range với different clause types, tenses, và structures
- Natural delivery: Speak with genuine enthusiasm và appropriate intonation
Nhớ rằng, IELTS Speaking đánh giá khả năng communication thực tế, không phải vocabulary test. Mục tiêu là convey ideas clearly và engage examiner trong conversation tự nhiên về một trải nghiệm bạn thực sự enjoyed.
Chúc bạn thành công với IELTS Speaking! Hãy practice regularly, record yourself, và học từ feedback. With consistent effort và right strategies, band điểm mơ ước hoàn toàn trong tầm tay!
