Mastering IELTS Speaking: How to Eloquently Describe Your Favorite Hobby Spot

Introduction

Describing a place where you enjoy your hobby is a common topic in IELTS Speaking tests. This theme allows examiners to assess your ability to discuss personal experiences, describe locations, and express opinions. Given its frequency in past exams, it’s likely to appear in future tests as well. Let’s explore how to tackle this topic effectively.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about your hobbies and leisure activities. Here are some typical questions:

1. What hobbies do you enjoy in your free time?
2. Where do you usually go to pursue your hobbies?
3. How often do you engage in your favorite hobby?

Let’s look at a sample answer for the second question:

Examiner: Where do you usually go to pursue your hobbies?

Sample Answer (Band 7-8):
“I’m quite passionate about photography, so I often venture out to various locations in my city to capture interesting shots. One of my favorite spots is a picturesque park near the city center. It’s an ideal place for nature photography as it boasts a beautiful lake, diverse flora, and even some wildlife. The park’s ever-changing scenery throughout the seasons provides me with endless opportunities to hone my skills and experiment with different techniques.”

Part 2: Long Turn

Now, let’s move on to the cue card task:

Describe a place in your country where you go to enjoy a hobby

You should say:

• Where this place is
• What hobby you enjoy there
• How often you go there
• And explain why you like going to this place for your hobby

Here are sample answers for different band scores:

Band 6-7 Answer:

“I’d like to talk about a place where I enjoy my hobby, which is painting. It’s a small art studio located in the heart of my city, about 15 minutes from my home. The studio is quite cozy, with large windows that let in plenty of natural light.

I go there to practice my painting skills, usually working on landscapes or still life compositions. The studio provides all the necessary equipment, including easels, canvases, and a wide range of paints and brushes.

I try to visit the studio at least twice a week, usually on weekends when I have more free time. Each session typically lasts for about two to three hours, depending on my schedule and the complexity of the painting I’m working on.

I really enjoy going to this place because it provides a peaceful environment where I can focus on my art without distractions. The atmosphere is always inspiring, with other artists working on their projects nearby. It’s also a great opportunity to meet like-minded people and share ideas about art techniques and styles.”

Band 8-9 Answer:

“I’d be delighted to describe a place where I indulge in my passion for painting. It’s an enchanting art studio nestled in the heart of our bustling metropolis, a mere 15-minute stroll from my residence. This haven for artists is a veritable sanctuary of creativity, boasting expansive windows that flood the space with natural light, creating an ideal ambiance for artistic pursuits.

At this studio, I immerse myself in the world of colors and textures, typically focusing on capturing the essence of landscapes or crafting intricate still life compositions. The facility is impeccably equipped with a plethora of art supplies, from sturdy easels and pristine canvases to an extensive array of high-quality paints and brushes.

I make it a point to frequent this artistic oasis at least twice a week, usually during weekends when I can devote uninterrupted time to my craft. Each session typically spans two to three hours, though the duration can vary depending on my schedule and the intricacy of the piece I’m working on.

What draws me to this place time and again is the serene atmosphere it provides, allowing me to channel my creative energies without external distractions. The palpable sense of artistic energy in the air is incredibly inspiring, as fellow artists work diligently on their own masterpieces nearby. Moreover, it offers a fantastic opportunity to network with like-minded individuals, exchanging insights on various artistic techniques and styles. This collaborative environment not only enhances my skills but also broadens my artistic horizons, making each visit a truly enriching experience.”

Art studio with natural light for painting hobby

Examiner’s follow-up questions:

1. How has this hobby influenced your life?
2. Do you think it’s important for people to have hobbies? Why or why not?

Sample answer for question 1 (Band 8-9):

“My painting hobby has profoundly impacted my life in numerous ways. Firstly, it has served as a tremendous stress reliever, allowing me to channel my emotions onto the canvas and find inner peace amidst the chaos of daily life. Moreover, it has sharpened my observational skills, enabling me to appreciate the subtle nuances of color and form in the world around me. This heightened awareness has spilled over into other areas of my life, making me more attentive to details in both personal and professional contexts. Additionally, pursuing this hobby has expanded my social circle, connecting me with a diverse community of artists and art enthusiasts, which has broadened my perspectives and enriched my life experiences.”

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

In this section, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here’s an example:

Examiner: How do you think technology has affected people’s hobbies in recent years?

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“Technology has undeniably revolutionized the landscape of hobbies in recent years, bringing about both positive and negative changes. On the positive side, it has democratized access to information and resources, allowing people to explore and cultivate a wide range of interests with unprecedented ease. For instance, aspiring musicians can now access high-quality tutorials online, while photography enthusiasts can enhance their skills through sophisticated editing software.

However, this technological influx has also led to some concerning trends. The ubiquity of smartphones and social media has created a culture of constant connectivity, which can detract from the immersive experience that hobbies traditionally offered. There’s a risk of hobbies becoming more about showcasing achievements online rather than enjoying the process itself.

Moreover, the rise of passive entertainment options, such as streaming services, has led to a decline in active hobbies for some individuals. This shift could potentially impact the development of crucial skills like creativity, problem-solving, and patience that hands-on hobbies often foster.

In essence, while technology has opened up new avenues for hobby exploration and skill development, it’s crucial to maintain a balance and not lose sight of the intrinsic value of engaging in hobbies for personal fulfillment rather than external validation.”

Technology's impact on modern hobbies

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

1. Indulge in (phrasal verb) – /ɪnˈdʌldʒ ɪn/ – to allow yourself to enjoy something
   Example: “I love to indulge in my passion for photography on weekends.”

2. Sanctuary (noun) – /ˈsæŋktʃueri/ – a place of refuge or safety
   Example: “The art studio is a sanctuary where I can escape from daily stress.”

3. Immerse oneself (phrasal verb) – /ɪˈmɜːrs wʌnˈself/ – to become completely involved in something
   Example: “At the studio, I can fully immerse myself in the creative process.”

4. Plethora (noun) – /ˈpleθərə/ – a large or excessive amount of something
   Example: “The studio offers a plethora of art supplies for various techniques.”

5. Channel one’s energy (phrase) – to direct one’s efforts or emotions towards a particular activity
   Example: “Painting allows me to channel my creative energy productively.”

6. Broaden one’s horizons (idiom) – to expand one’s range of interests, experiences, or knowledge
   Example: “Interacting with other artists has helped broaden my artistic horizons.”

Tips from an Examiner

1. Practice describing places in detail: Focus on using vivid adjectives and sensory language to paint a clear picture for the listener.

2. Develop a range of hobby-related vocabulary: Familiarize yourself with terms specific to your hobbies to demonstrate a rich vocabulary.

3. Structure your answers logically: Use connective phrases to link your ideas and create a coherent narrative.

4. Show enthusiasm: Let your passion for your hobby shine through in your tone and choice of words.

5. Prepare examples and anecdotes: Have personal stories ready to illustrate your points and make your answers more engaging.

6. Practice speaking for extended periods: Time yourself speaking on various topics for 2 minutes to build stamina for the long-turn section.

Remember, the key to success in IELTS Speaking is not just about what you say, but how you say it. Confidence, fluency, and natural expression are just as important as vocabulary and grammar. Keep practicing, and you’ll see improvement in no time!