When it comes to the IELTS Speaking test, candidates often encounter questions about people in their lives. One common topic is describing a friend who enjoys nature. This theme allows examiners to assess your ability to discuss relationships, hobbies, and environmental interests. Let’s explore how to effectively tackle this topic and impress the examiner with your language skills.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In Part 1, the examiner may ask general questions about nature and outdoor activities. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:

Sample Question: Do you enjoy spending time in nature?

Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I do. I find nature quite relaxing and enjoy going for walks in parks or hiking on weekends. It’s a nice way to unwind after a busy week.

Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely! I’m passionate about spending time outdoors. There’s something incredibly rejuvenating about immersing myself in natural surroundings. Whether it’s a leisurely stroll through a local park or an exhilarating hike in the mountains, I find that connecting with nature helps me recharge and gain a fresh perspective on life.

Part 2: Long Turn

In this section, you’ll be given a cue card with a topic and points to cover. Here’s a sample cue card related to describing a friend who enjoys nature:

Cue Card

Describe a friend who enjoys nature
You should say:

• Who this person is
• How you know them
• What they like to do in nature
• Why you think they enjoy nature so much

Band 6-7 Answer:
I’d like to talk about my friend Sarah, who I’ve known since high school. We met in our biology class and quickly bonded over our shared interest in the environment.

Sarah is really into outdoor activities. She loves going on hikes and camping trips whenever she gets the chance. I remember she once told me about a fantastic trek she did in the nearby national park, where she spent days exploring the wilderness and observing wildlife.

I think Sarah enjoys nature so much because it gives her a sense of peace and adventure. She always says that being in nature helps her clear her mind and appreciate the simple things in life. It’s also a way for her to challenge herself physically and mentally.

Sarah’s love for nature has definitely rubbed off on me. Thanks to her, I’ve started to appreciate the outdoors more and even joined her on a few camping trips. It’s been a great way to strengthen our friendship and learn more about the environment.

Band 8-9 Answer:
I’d be delighted to talk about my friend Alex, an avid nature enthusiast whom I met during our university days. We were both part of the environmental club, and his infectious passion for the great outdoors immediately drew me to him.

Alex has an insatiable appetite for all things nature-related. He’s constantly planning epic adventures, from multi-day backpacking trips through remote wilderness areas to bird-watching expeditions in local wetlands. One of his most memorable escapades was a solo kayaking trip along the coastline, where he camped on secluded beaches and immersed himself in the raw beauty of the marine ecosystem.

I believe Alex’s profound love for nature stems from a combination of factors. Firstly, he finds it deeply therapeutic and often speaks about how being in nature grounds him and provides a much-needed respite from the frenetic pace of urban life. Secondly, Alex is fascinated by the intricate ecosystems he encounters and views each outdoor experience as an opportunity to learn and broaden his understanding of the natural world.

Moreover, Alex sees nature as a catalyst for personal growth. He thrives on the physical challenges presented by rugged terrains and unpredictable weather conditions, viewing them as opportunities to test his limits and develop resilience. His adventures have also fostered a deep sense of environmental stewardship within him, inspiring him to actively participate in conservation efforts and educate others about the importance of preserving our natural heritage.

Alex’s enthusiasm for nature has been truly contagious, prompting many of us in his circle, including myself, to develop a greater appreciation for the environment. His stories and experiences serve as a constant reminder of the awe-inspiring wonders that await us beyond the confines of our urban environments.

Follow-up Questions

1. How has your friend’s love for nature influenced you?

Band 6-7 Answer:
Sarah’s passion for nature has definitely had an impact on me. I’ve started to appreciate the outdoors more and have even taken up hiking as a hobby. It’s made me more aware of environmental issues too.

Band 8-9 Answer:
Alex’s profound connection with nature has been truly transformative for me. His enthusiasm has sparked a newfound appreciation within me for the natural world. I’ve not only embraced outdoor activities like hiking and camping but have also become more environmentally conscious. His influence has led me to actively participate in local conservation efforts and reassess my lifestyle choices to reduce my ecological footprint.

2. Do you think more people should spend time in nature? Why or why not?

Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I think it would be good for more people to spend time in nature. It’s a great way to relax and de-stress, and it can help people understand the importance of protecting the environment.

Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely. I believe that increased engagement with nature is crucial for both individual well-being and environmental conservation. Spending time outdoors offers numerous benefits, including stress reduction, improved physical health, and enhanced cognitive function. Moreover, direct experiences with nature can foster a deeper connection to our environment, potentially leading to more sustainable behaviors and a greater commitment to preserving our natural resources for future generations.

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

In this section, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:

Question 1: How has technology affected people’s relationship with nature?

Band 6-7 Answer:
Technology has had both positive and negative effects on people’s relationship with nature. On one hand, it’s made it easier for people to learn about and appreciate nature through nature documentaries and apps that help identify plants and animals. On the other hand, many people spend more time indoors using devices, which can disconnect them from the natural world.

Band 8-9 Answer:
The impact of technology on our relationship with nature is multifaceted and somewhat paradoxical. On the positive side, technology has democratized access to information about the natural world, allowing people to explore and learn about diverse ecosystems through high-quality documentaries, interactive apps, and virtual reality experiences. These tools can spark curiosity and foster appreciation for nature, especially among those with limited access to wild spaces.

Conversely, the pervasive presence of technology in our daily lives has led to what some experts call “nature deficit disorder.” The allure of digital devices often keeps people indoors and disconnected from the natural environment. This disconnect can lead to a diminished sense of environmental stewardship and a lack of understanding about the importance of biodiversity and ecosystem health.

However, it’s worth noting that technology can also bridge the gap between urban living and nature experiences. Apps that encourage outdoor activities, citizen science projects that involve the public in data collection, and social media platforms that allow people to share and celebrate nature experiences can all contribute to rekindling our connection with the natural world.

Balancing technology and nature connection

Question 2: What role do you think nature plays in education?

Band 6-7 Answer:
Nature plays an important role in education. It provides a hands-on learning environment for subjects like biology and environmental science. Outdoor activities can also help students develop important skills like teamwork and problem-solving.

Band 8-9 Answer:
Nature plays a pivotal and multifaceted role in education, offering a rich, experiential learning environment that complements and enhances traditional classroom instruction. Firstly, nature serves as a living laboratory for sciences such as biology, ecology, and environmental studies, allowing students to observe and interact with complex systems firsthand. This direct engagement can foster a deeper understanding of scientific concepts and cultivate scientific inquiry skills.

Moreover, exposure to nature in educational settings can significantly enhance cognitive functions such as attention, memory, and creativity. Studies have shown that even brief interactions with natural environments can improve concentration and reduce stress, potentially leading to better academic performance.

Nature-based education also provides invaluable opportunities for developing crucial life skills. Outdoor activities and nature exploration can promote teamwork, leadership, risk assessment, and problem-solving abilities. These experiences can build resilience and adaptability, qualities that are increasingly valued in our rapidly changing world.

Furthermore, incorporating nature into education can nurture environmental stewardship and ecological literacy. By fostering a connection with the natural world, we can cultivate a generation that understands the importance of sustainable practices and is motivated to address environmental challenges.

In essence, nature in education not only enhances academic learning but also contributes to the holistic development of individuals, preparing them to be well-rounded, environmentally conscious citizens of the future.

Key Vocabulary and Phrases

To achieve a high band score in IELTS Speaking, it’s crucial to use a range of advanced vocabulary and expressions. Here are some key terms related to describing a friend who enjoys nature:

1. Avid /ˈævɪd/ (adjective): Very enthusiastic about something.
   Example: “My friend is an avid hiker, always planning new trails to explore.”

2. Rejuvenating /rɪˈdʒuːvəneɪtɪŋ/ (adjective): Making one feel younger or more energetic.
   Example: “She finds spending time in nature incredibly rejuvenating.”

3. Immerse /ɪˈmɜːrs/ (verb): To involve oneself deeply in a particular activity or interest.
   Example: “He loves to immerse himself in the sights and sounds of the forest.”

4. Biodiversity /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti/ (noun): The variety of plant and animal life in a particular habitat.
   Example: “She’s fascinated by the biodiversity of tropical rainforests.”

5. Stewardship /ˈstjuːərdʃɪp/ (noun): The job of supervising or taking care of something, such as an organization or property.
   Example: “His love for nature has led to a strong sense of environmental stewardship.”

Using these terms and phrases accurately can significantly enhance your speaking performance and demonstrate a sophisticated command of English.

Examiner’s Advice

To excel in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when describing a friend who enjoys nature, consider the following tips:

1. Be specific: Provide detailed examples of your friend’s nature-related activities and experiences.

2. Use varied vocabulary: Incorporate a range of nature-related terms and descriptive language to showcase your lexical resource.

3. Practice fluency: Aim for smooth delivery without excessive hesitation or repetition.

4. Develop your ideas: Expand on your points with explanations and personal insights.

5. Show enthusiasm: Convey genuine interest in the topic through your tone and expressions.

Remember, regular practice with a variety of topics will help you build confidence and improve your overall performance in the IELTS Speaking test.

describe an adventure sport you would like to try in the future

By following these guidelines and incorporating the sample answers and vocabulary provided, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle questions about friends who enjoy nature in your IELTS Speaking test. Good luck with your preparation!