Note: you will have to speak this cue card for 1 to 2 minutes in front of the examiner. Before starting the cue card will have 1 minute to look at the main points and prepare some notes which you can use while speaking.

Introduction:

There are many electronic products in my house that I use on a regular basis. One of the most useful household appliances that I have is a microwave oven. It has become an indispensable part of my kitchen, making my daily cooking and food preparation tasks much more convenient and time-efficient.

What it is:

A microwave oven is an electronic device used for heating and cooking food. It utilizes microwave radiation to generate heat, enabling quick and efficient cooking.

Where it is:

In my kitchen, the microwave oven is located on the countertop near the refrigerator. Its placement ensures easy access and usability during meal preparation.

How it works:

The microwave oven works by emitting electromagnetic waves known as microwaves. These microwaves interact with the water molecules in the food, causing them to vibrate rapidly. As a result of this vibration, heat is produced, which cooks or heats up the food.

How it is used:

Using a microwave oven is relatively simple. Firstly, I place the food item or container inside the oven, making sure it is microwave-safe. Then, I set the desired time and power level on the control panel. The oven starts emitting microwaves, and the food begins to heat up or cook. Once the set time elapses, the oven beeps to indicate that the cooking process is complete. Finally, I carefully remove the food from the oven using oven mitts or protective gloves.

Vocabulary:

1. Indispensable: Absolutely necessary or essential.
2. Microwave oven: An electronic device used for heating and cooking food using microwave radiation.
3. Countertop: A flat working surface in a kitchen, typically made of durable material such as granite or marble.
4. Convenient: Making tasks easier or more comfortable to perform.
5. Time-efficient: Maximizing the effective use of time.
6. Microwave radiation: Electromagnetic waves that are used in a microwave oven to heat and cook food.
7. Vibrates: Moves rapidly back and forth in a continuous motion.
8. Control panel: The part of the microwave oven where settings such as time and power level can be adjusted.
9. Microwave-safe: Suitable for use in a microwave oven without causing damage or hazards.
10. Protective gloves: Gloves worn to protect hands from heat or potential injuries.

Follow-up questions

Q1. Do you use your microwave oven more for cooking or reheating food?

I primarily use my microwave oven for reheating food. It’s incredibly convenient when I want to warm up leftovers or heat a ready-to-eat meal quickly.

Q2. What are some advantages of using a microwave oven over traditional cooking methods?

One advantage is the speed at which it cooks or heats food. It saves a significant amount of time compared to conventional methods such as stovetop or oven cooking. Additionally, using a microwave oven helps retain the nutritional value of food because the cooking time is shorter and there’s less exposure to heat.

Q3. Have you ever encountered any challenges or limitations while using your microwave oven?

Yes, one limitation is that some foods don’t microwave well and can turn out soggy or unevenly cooked. Also, larger or thicker food items may take longer to cook through. It’s important to adjust the cooking time and power level accordingly to avoid these issues.

Q4. Are there any safety precautions you take while using the microwave oven?

Absolutely, safety is crucial. I always make sure that the containers or dishes I use are microwave-safe and don’t contain any metal or foil. I also avoid using plastic containers that are not labeled as microwave-safe to prevent any harmful chemicals from leaching into the food. Additionally, I’m careful when removing hot dishes from the microwave oven to prevent burns.

Q5. Do you think microwave ovens have changed the way people cook and prepare food?

Definitely! Microwave ovens have revolutionized cooking and made it much more convenient. They have significantly reduced the time and effort required for cooking and reheating food, making it easier for busy individuals to manage their meals. Microwave ovens have become a staple in many households, allowing people to enjoy warm and delicious food within minutes.