IELTS Speaking Parts 2 and 3 with Comments

Summary

The transcript highlights a memorable family meal during Chinese Lunar New Year, emphasizing the joy of sharing food and traditions with loved ones. The speaker reflects on the significance of learning about healthy diets and cooking in schools, underscoring the value of home economics in teaching essential skills. Moving beyond food aid, the speaker advocates for rich countries to provide education and fair trade opportunities to help impoverished nations. The town's efforts to support global education initiatives are also discussed, showcasing a commitment to long-term, sustainable development.

Takeaways

• 😀 The speaker reminisces about a memorable meal during the Chinese Lunar New Year with their extended family.
• 😀 The family meal included a variety of home-cooked dishes like steamed fish, Indian curry, and vegetables grown by the speaker's grandfather.
• 😀 The atmosphere of the meal was filled with joy, as around 30 to 40 family members gathered, celebrating together and exchanging gifts.
• 😀 The speaker treasures these family gatherings, especially given their grandfather's age (90 years old).
• 😀 The speaker expresses a desire to repeat the Lunar New Year meal in the future, as these occasions are truly memorable.
• 😀 The speaker supports the idea of teaching children about healthy diets and cooking in school.
• 😀 In Hong Kong, a course called 'home economics' provides students with cooking skills and knowledge about healthy diets.
• 😀 The speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding diet to combat issues like childhood obesity and to maintain balanced health.
• 😀 The speaker advocates for rich countries to help poor countries not just by providing food, but also by offering education and opportunities for self-sufficiency.
• 😀 The speaker highlights the need for fair trade, so that poor countries can benefit from their resources and improve their economic standing.
• 😀 In the speaker's town, many volunteers travel to countries like Nepal and rural Mainland China to support education and literacy efforts.

Q & A

What is the most memorable meal the speaker describes?

The speaker describes a memorable meal during the Chinese Lunar New Year, where their entire family gathered to celebrate at their grandfather's home. The meal included steamed fish, Indian curry, chicken with soy sauce, and vegetables grown by the grandfather.

Why does the speaker value the Chinese Lunar New Year meal so much?

The speaker values this meal because it represents a special occasion when the whole family gathers together, creating a warm and joyous atmosphere. The speaker especially treasures these moments as their grandfather is 90 years old, and such occasions may become less frequent.

What role does the grandfather play in the meal's preparation?

The grandfather, being a farmer in Hong Kong, grows various vegetables like choy sum, bok choy, and lettuce, which are included in the meal. His role is important in providing fresh and homegrown ingredients for the family dinner.

What is the significance of giving presents during the Chinese Lunar New Year?

Giving presents during the Chinese Lunar New Year is a cultural tradition, symbolizing good wishes and blessings for the coming year. The speaker mentions that after the dinner, family members exchange gifts and have a long chat, emphasizing the importance of family bonding and celebrations.

What is the speaker's opinion on teaching children about healthy diets and cooking?

The speaker believes that it is important for children to learn about healthy diets and cooking at school. In Hong Kong, there is a subject called 'home economics,' which includes culinary science and teaches students practical cooking skills. The speaker emphasizes the importance of children knowing how to cook simple dishes and maintain a balanced diet.

How does the speaker feel about learning cooking skills?

The speaker values the cooking skills learned in school, mentioning that it allowed them to cook simple dishes like tomato with eggs and fried beef with cucumbers. This was particularly helpful as it meant they didn’t have to rely on instant noodles every time.

Why is it important for children to understand balanced diets, according to the speaker?

The speaker points out that some children may suffer from obesity, and it is crucial for them to understand the importance of a balanced diet. By teaching children how to make healthier food choices, they can maintain better health and fitness.

What is the speaker's view on rich countries helping poor countries?

The speaker believes that rich countries should provide more than just food to poor countries. In addition to food aid, they suggest that rich countries should help by providing education and fair trade opportunities, so poor countries can become self-sufficient and escape poverty.

What other forms of support should rich countries provide to poor countries, according to the speaker?

The speaker emphasizes the importance of education and fair trade. By offering education, poor countries can improve their literacy and skills, while fair trade ensures they have the opportunity to sell their resources and products, helping them develop economically.

How does the speaker's town contribute to helping poor countries?

The speaker mentions that people in their town volunteer to travel to poor countries like Nepal to assist with education and literacy. Additionally, many people from the town help people in rural areas of Mainland China, particularly in remote villages, to access education and improve their living standards.