Describe an important plant in your country – IELTS Speaking Part 2 Band 9 Sample

Sample Answer

I’m going to talk about an extremely widespread plant in my country, the coca leaf. Although it’s controversial in other countries, as this plant is used to produce cocaine, it’s said to heal the symptoms of altitude sickness and give you a boost of energy while climbing the high Andes Mountains. In fact, it’s considered a sacred plant in my country due to its healing tendencies. Let me tell you more about it!

It’s a green color and not very large in size. I’d say each individual leaf is about 4-5 cm in length and 2-3 in width. This plant is native to western South America, meaning Bolivia, Colombia, Peru, Argentina, and Ecuador, cultivated in both the lowlands and highlands of the Andes mountains. Moreover, people can also grow this plant in the comfort of their homes with seeds. It’s recommended to keep the plant inside in a warm, sunny environment.

I really cherish (appreciate) the coca leaf because I believe it carries medical value. I really believe that it cures the headaches, nausea, and light-headedness associated with altitude sickness. Furthermore, it’s what I turn to when I get any type of headache, not associated with altitude sickness and I feel that it’s a healthy alternative to drinking coffee. All in all, I feel it’s better to use something natural rather than a manufactured pill.

Coca is important to my country’s people for several reasons. Firstly, it is a cash crop. Secondly, this plant is regarded as a sacred plant, so they play an important role in our offering ceremonies to Mother Earth. Lastly, it cures a multitude of illnesses! As you can see, we love this plant.

Vocabulary

• Widespread: existing or happening in many places or among many people 
  Eg: The tsunami caused widespread devastation.
• Symptoms: any feeling of illness or physical or mental change that is caused by a disease
  Eg: John showed mild symptoms of jaundice. 
• Healing: the process of making or becoming sound or healthy again 
  Eg: The process of healing from a disease takes time. 
• Cherish: to love, protect, and care for someone or something that is important to you 
  Eg: Rose cherished her children with love. 
• Recommend: to suggest that someone or something would be good or suitable for a particular job or purpose,  
  Eg: The doctor recommended rest. 

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