This post contains ideas and band-9 sample answers (audio included) for the Cambridge IELTS 11 Academic Speaking Part 1 Question 3 Test 1 question:
“Do you watch cookery programmes on TV? [Why/Why not?]”
Sample 1: Yes
Yes, I often find myself engrossed in cookery broadcasts. There’s something therapeutic about watching someone create a dish step by step, from the chopping of the ingredients to the final garnishing. It’s like a form of visual ASMR for me, helping me unwind after a long day.
Sample 2: Yes
Absolutely, I am a frequent viewer of culinary shows on the telly. They offer a unique opportunity to explore and understand various cultures through their cuisine. I’m particularly drawn to programmes that focus on regional and ethnic dishes, where traditional cooking methods are revealed. It’s fascinating to witness how food preparation varies across different cultures and regions.
Sample 3: Yes
Indeed, I do tune in to cooking shows on the box quite regularly. As someone who enjoys home cooking, these programmes provide me with a wealth of inspiration for my own culinary experiments. Whether it’s a new recipe or an unusual spice, there’s always something to learn and try out in my own kitchen.
Sample 4: Yes
Yes, I do watch cooking shows, but not necessarily for the cooking. I find the dynamics between the chefs and the contestants in competitive cooking shows very entertaining. The suspense, the drama, and the celebration of culinary talent make for riveting television.
Sample 5: No
I’m afraid I don’t often tune into cooking shows on TV. As a full-time engineer and a part-time student, my schedule is quite packed. When I do have some spare time, I prefer to unwind with a book or indulge in some outdoor activities. Although I appreciate the culinary arts, television programmes focused on this topic don’t usually fit into my routine.
Sample 6: No
No, I don’t usually tune into culinary shows that are broadcast on television. The reason is quite straightforward. I find digital content, particularly on platforms like YouTube or various cooking blogs, to be more user-friendly and easy to navigate. It saves me the hassle of adhering to a TV schedule and I can pause, rewind, or skip parts as I please.
Sample 7: No
Regrettably, I don’t watch cooking programs on TV. Although they can be entertaining, I find them somewhat impractical for my needs. Most of the dishes they prepare require ingredients or equipment that I don’t typically have at home, which makes it difficult for me to replicate the recipes. I find it more useful to search for specific recipes online that suit my kitchen resources and dietary preferences.
Sample 8: No
No, I don’t gravitate toward cooking shows on TV. Primarily because I’m more of a ‘food enjoyer’ than a ‘food preparer’. I prefer experiencing a wide variety of cuisines through restaurants or takeaway services rather than cooking them myself. Therefore, watching these shows doesn’t provide much value to my lifestyle.
Sample 9: Sometimes
I do watch culinary series on television sporadically, but it’s contingent on my emotional state. Sometimes, these shows act as a soothing escape, especially when they focus on the slow, careful preparation of comfort food. However, if I’m in the mood for more dynamic content, I might steer clear of these programmes.
Sample 10: Sometimes
Yes, I sometimes watch cooking programmes on the telly, but it is largely dependent on whether I’m watching television with friends or family. These shows often trigger lively discussions about food and cooking, making for a great communal experience. However, when I’m watching TV alone, I might opt for different types of shows.




