Prompt
Do you enjoy cooking? Why or why not?
Band 9 sample transcript
Band 9 sample transcript
Yes, I do, though it depends on how much time I have. On weekdays I usually keep it simple—something like stir‑fried vegetables with rice or an omelette—because I get home tired and I don’t want a huge mess in the kitchen. But at the weekend I genuinely enjoy cooking properly, especially dishes that take a bit of patience, like a slow curry or homemade pasta.
I like it mainly because it’s relaxing and practical at the same time. After a long day, chopping ingredients and following a recipe helps me switch off, and it’s satisfying to sit down and eat something I’ve made myself. It’s also healthier and cheaper than ordering takeaways all the time, and I can control things like salt and oil.
That said, I don’t enjoy cooking when I’m rushed or when I have to cook for a big group, because I start worrying about timing and whether everyone will like it. In those situations, I’d rather choose a simple dish that I know is reliable.
Verified word count: 169
Why this answer scores highly
explanation
Fluency is maintained with logical sequencing (weekday/weekend; pros; limitation). Lexical resource is precise without being unnatural (“switch off,” “reliable dish”). Grammar is accurate and varied (present simple, comparative structures, conditional/when clauses). Tone is conversational and appropriately personal.
what this question tests
This Part 1 question tests your ability to give a clear, natural personal response with reasons and brief examples. Examiners listen for fluency, natural vocabulary for daily routines and food, and simple but accurate grammar (present simple, frequency, and short contrasts).
Natural phrases to reuse
It depends on how much time I have.
Give a flexible, realistic answer.
I enjoy cooking, but it depends on how much time I have.
That said, ...
Introduce a contrast politely.
That said, I don’t enjoy cooking when I’m rushed.
In those situations, ...
Refer back to a condition and conclude.
In those situations, I’d rather cook something simple.
Pronunciation and fluency notes
- Linking: connect phrases smoothly (e.g., 'on weekdays I usually…', 'but at the weekend…').
- Sentence stress: emphasize contrast words like 'weekdays' vs 'weekend', 'healthier', 'cheaper'.
- Natural pace: pause briefly after the opening answer, then give 2–3 reasons with one example each.
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