Describing a childhood hobby is a common topic in IELTS Speaking tests, particularly in Part 2. This subject allows candidates to showcase their ability to recall past experiences, express emotions, and use descriptive language effectively. Given its prevalence in previous exams, it’s highly likely to appear in future tests as well. Let’s explore how to tackle this topic and maximize your IELTS Speaking score.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In Part 1, the examiner may ask general questions about your hobbies or childhood activities. Here’s a sample question with a suggested answer:

Q: Did you have any hobbies as a child?

A: Absolutely! As a child, I was quite passionate about collecting stamps. It was a hobby that not only kept me entertained but also taught me a lot about different countries and cultures. I remember spending hours organizing my collection and eagerly anticipating new additions from relatives who traveled abroad.

Child collecting stamps as a hobby for IELTS Speaking

Part 2: Long Turn

Here’s a sample cue card for this topic:

Describe A Hobby You Used To Have As A Child
You should say:

• What the hobby was
• When you started it
• Why you were interested in it
• And explain why you no longer have this hobby

Sample answer (Band 6-7):

When I was a child, I used to be really into stamp collecting. I started this hobby when I was about 8 years old, after my grandfather gave me his old stamp album. I was immediately fascinated by the colorful little pieces of paper from all over the world.

I was interested in stamp collecting for several reasons. First, it was a way to learn about different countries and their cultures. Each stamp had a story to tell, whether it was about famous people, historical events, or natural wonders. Second, it was a relaxing activity that helped me unwind after school. I would spend hours organizing my stamps and researching their origins.

However, I no longer have this hobby. As I grew older, I found that I had less time for it due to increasing school responsibilities. Also, with the rise of digital communication, stamps became less common, making it harder to find new and interesting ones. Eventually, my interest waned, and I moved on to other hobbies that were more relevant to my teenage years.

Sample answer (Band 8-9):

As a child, I was utterly captivated by the world of stamp collecting, a hobby that ignited my curiosity and broadened my horizons in ways I couldn’t have imagined. This philatelic journey began when I was around 8 years old, sparked by a serendipitous gift from my grandfather – his cherished stamp album, a veritable treasure trove of miniature artworks from across the globe.

The allure of stamp collecting was multifaceted for my young mind. Primarily, it served as a window to the world, each stamp a tiny ambassador of its country of origin, showcasing historical figures, cultural landmarks, and natural wonders. This visual encyclopedia fueled my passion for geography and history, making learning an exciting adventure. Secondarily, the meticulous nature of organizing and cataloging stamps honed my attention to detail and patience, skills that have proven invaluable throughout my life.

Despite the joy it brought me, this hobby gradually faded from my life as I transitioned into adolescence. The demands of academia and the allure of more dynamic pursuits began to overshadow my philatelic interests. Moreover, the digital revolution transformed communication, rendering stamps less ubiquitous and, consequently, less accessible for collection. While I no longer actively collect stamps, the analytical skills and global perspective I gained continue to enrich my life, serving as a testament to the enduring impact of childhood hobbies.

Possible follow-up questions:

1. How common was stamp collecting among your peers?
2. Do you think traditional hobbies like stamp collecting are still relevant in the digital age?

Sample answers:

1. (Band 6-7) Stamp collecting wasn’t very common among my friends. Most of them preferred more active hobbies like sports or video games. I was one of the few kids in my class who collected stamps, which made it feel special to me.

   (Band 8-9) In my childhood social circle, stamp collecting was somewhat of a niche pursuit. While the majority of my peers were engrossed in more mainstream activities like sports or video games, I found myself part of a small but passionate group of young philatelists. This relative rarity of our hobby actually enhanced its appeal, fostering a sense of camaraderie among us collectors and making our shared interest feel all the more precious and distinctive.

2. (Band 6-7) I think traditional hobbies like stamp collecting can still be relevant today, even in the digital age. They offer a hands-on experience that digital hobbies can’t replicate. However, they might need to adapt to stay interesting to young people who are used to fast-paced digital entertainment.

   (Band 8-9) Despite the ubiquity of digital entertainment, I believe traditional hobbies like stamp collecting retain their relevance, albeit in an evolved form. These pursuits offer a tangible, tactile experience that serves as a counterpoint to our increasingly virtual world. They can foster mindfulness, patience, and an appreciation for history and craftsmanship – qualities that are perhaps even more valuable in our fast-paced digital era. However, to captivate the younger generation, such hobbies may need to innovate, perhaps by integrating digital elements or emphasizing their unique benefits in a world of fleeting digital experiences.

Stamp collecting in the digital age for IELTS Speaking

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

Q: How do you think childhood hobbies influence a person’s future career choices?

A: (Band 6-7) I believe childhood hobbies can have a big impact on future career choices. They often introduce kids to new skills and interests that might shape their career path later on. For example, a child who enjoys building things might become an engineer, while someone who likes drawing could pursue a career in art or design.

A: (Band 8-9) Childhood hobbies can play a pivotal role in shaping an individual’s future career trajectory. These early interests often serve as formative experiences that nurture specific skills, ignite passions, and provide insights into potential career paths. For instance, a child engrossed in coding games might be laying the groundwork for a career in software development, while one who revels in storytelling could be cultivating the skills necessary for a future in writing or journalism. Moreover, hobbies can instill valuable traits such as perseverance, creativity, and problem-solving abilities, which are universally applicable across various professions. However, it’s important to note that while hobbies can be influential, they are not deterministic – many individuals successfully pursue careers quite distinct from their childhood interests, demonstrating the complex interplay of factors that influence career choices.

Q: Do you think the types of hobbies children engage in have changed over the generations? Why or why not?

A: (Band 6-7) Yes, I think children’s hobbies have definitely changed over the generations. Nowadays, many kids prefer digital hobbies like playing video games or using social media. This is probably because of advances in technology and changes in lifestyle. However, some traditional hobbies like sports or reading are still popular.

A: (Band 8-9) There has undoubtedly been a significant shift in the nature of children’s hobbies across generations, primarily driven by technological advancements and evolving societal norms. The digital revolution has ushered in a plethora of new pastimes, from video gaming to social media engagement, which were inconceivable to previous generations. This transition reflects not only changes in available technologies but also in the pace and structure of modern life.

However, it would be an oversimplification to suggest that traditional hobbies have been entirely supplanted. Many enduring pursuits like sports, music, and reading continue to thrive, albeit often in modernized forms. What we’re witnessing is more of an expansion and diversification of hobby options rather than a wholesale replacement. This evolution mirrors broader societal changes, including increased connectivity, changing family dynamics, and shifting educational priorities. Ultimately, while the landscape of childhood hobbies has undeniably transformed, the fundamental human need for engaging, enjoyable activities remains constant, manifesting in both new and traditional forms.

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

1. Philatelic /ˌfɪləˈtelɪk/ (adjective): Relating to the collection and study of postage stamps.
   Example: “My philatelic interests led me to learn about various countries and cultures.”

2. To ignite curiosity (phrase): To stimulate or awaken a strong desire to learn or know something.
   Example: “Stamp collecting ignited my curiosity about world geography.”

3. Multifaceted /ˌmʌltɪˈfæsɪtɪd/ (adjective): Having many different aspects or features.
   Example: “The hobby of stamp collecting is multifaceted, involving history, geography, and art appreciation.”

4. To broaden horizons (phrase): To expand one’s range of interests, experiences, and knowledge.
   Example: “Collecting stamps from around the world really broadened my horizons as a child.”

5. Meticulous /məˈtɪkjələs/ (adjective): Showing great attention to detail; very careful and precise.
   Example: “Organizing my stamp collection required meticulous attention to detail.”

Remember to use these words and phrases naturally in your responses, providing context and examples to demonstrate your understanding. This will help you describe a book that changed your perspective on life or any other topic with greater sophistication.

Examiner’s Advice

To excel in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when discussing childhood hobbies:

1. Practice recalling details: Spend time remembering specific aspects of your childhood hobbies. This will help you provide rich, detailed responses.

2. Use descriptive language: Incorporate vivid adjectives and varied vocabulary to bring your experiences to life.

3. Structure your answer: Organize your thoughts logically, addressing all parts of the question.

4. Show enthusiasm: Let your passion for your childhood hobby shine through in your tone and expression.

5. Make connections: Relate your hobby to broader themes or life lessons where appropriate.

6. Be prepared for follow-up questions: Think about how your hobby influenced you or why you stopped it.

Remember, the key is to demonstrate your English proficiency while sharing your personal experiences. This approach will serve you well whether you’re describing a childhood hobby, an object you have owned for a long time, or any other topic in the IELTS Speaking test.

By following these guidelines and incorporating the provided vocabulary and phrases, you’ll be well-equipped to discuss your childhood hobbies eloquently in your IELTS Speaking test. Remember, the goal is not just to describe the hobby, but to use it as a vehicle to showcase your English language skills and ability to express complex ideas clearly and effectively.