Hobbies are a common topic in IELTS Speaking tests, appearing frequently in all three parts. This guide provides detailed sample answers and professional analysis to help you achieve a high band score when discussing hobbies.
IELTS Speaking Test Examiner and Candidate Discussion
Part 1: Introduction Questions and Sample Answers
Common questions about hobbies include:
- What hobbies do you have?
- How long have you been doing this hobby?
- Why did you choose this hobby?
- Do you think hobbies are important?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I’m deeply passionate about photography, which I picked up about three years ago. I was drawn to this creative outlet because it allows me to capture fleeting moments and tell compelling stories through images. I believe hobbies are absolutely essential for maintaining a healthy work-life balance and fostering personal growth.”
Describe a hobby that you started during the pandemic offers additional insights into discussing newly acquired interests.
Part 2: Cue Card Task
Describe a hobby you picked up during your free time
You should say:
- What the hobby is
- When you started it
- Why you chose this hobby
- And explain how you feel about it now
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to talk about urban sketching, which has become an integral part of my daily routine. I embarked on this creative journey during the summer of 2021 when I stumbled upon some fascinating sketching videos online.
The reason I gravitated towards this hobby was its perfect blend of creativity and mindfulness. It compels me to observe my surroundings more intently and appreciate the subtle details of urban architecture that I previously overlooked.
What particularly appeals to me is how this hobby has transformed my perspective of the city I live in. I now carry my sketchbook everywhere, and it’s remarkable how even a 15-minute sketching session can be so therapeutic and rejuvenating.
Describe a new hobby you picked up recently provides more examples of effectively describing new interests.
Part 3: Discussion Questions
Question 1: Do you think hobbies are becoming more diverse nowadays?
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“There’s no doubt that the spectrum of hobbies has expanded exponentially in recent years. The digital age has revolutionized how people discover and pursue interests, leading to the emergence of numerous niche hobbies. For instance, we’re seeing people delve into unique combinations like digital art with traditional crafting, or virtual reality fitness routines.”
Describe a hobby you enjoy offers additional perspectives on discussing leisure activities.
Question 2: How do hobbies contribute to personal development?
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“Hobbies play a pivotal role in personal development by fostering crucial skills and enhancing emotional intelligence. They serve as powerful catalysts for developing patience, persistence, and problem-solving abilities. Moreover, hobbies often facilitate social connections and boost self-confidence through measurable progress and achievement.”
Key Vocabulary and Expressions
- To immerse oneself in (phrasal verb): to become completely involved in something
- Therapeutic (adj) /ˌθerəˈpjuːtɪk/: providing psychological or physical well-being
- To derive satisfaction (phrase): to get pleasure or contentment from something
- Time-consuming (adj): requiring a lot of time to complete
- Fulfilling (adj): making someone feel happy and satisfied
Urban Sketching as a Creative Hobby
Examiner’s Tips
- Use a mix of simple and complex sentences
- Incorporate relevant personal experiences
- Demonstrate range of vocabulary through synonyms
- Show enthusiasm through appropriate intonation
- Structure your answers with clear organization
Remember to describe a hobby you started during the pandemic with similar detail and structure when practicing.
