When preparing for the IELTS Speaking test, it’s crucial to be ready for a wide range of topics. One such topic that frequently appears is describing a hobby you’ve recently taken up. This subject allows examiners to assess your ability to discuss personal experiences, express opinions, and use appropriate vocabulary. Let’s explore how to tackle this topic effectively across all parts of the IELTS Speaking test.
Describe a situation where you had to be very organized is another common IELTS Speaking topic that requires similar skills in detailing personal experiences.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, the examiner may ask you some general questions about hobbies. Here are a few potential questions and sample answers:
Question: Do you have any hobbies?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I do. I recently started gardening. It’s been a great way to relax and connect with nature.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely! I’ve recently taken up urban gardening, which has been an incredibly rewarding experience. It’s not only a fantastic way to unwind after a long day but also allows me to cultivate my own organic produce.
Question: What made you start this new hobby?
Band 6-7 Answer:
I started gardening because I wanted to spend more time outdoors. Also, I thought it would be nice to grow my own vegetables.
Band 8-9 Answer:
The catalyst for my newfound interest in urban gardening was a combination of factors. Primarily, I was keen on reducing my carbon footprint and wanted to contribute to a more sustainable lifestyle. Additionally, the prospect of cultivating my own organic produce was incredibly appealing, especially given the rising concerns about food quality and pesticide use.
Part 2: Long Turn
In Part 2, you might receive a cue card related to describing a hobby you started recently. Here’s a sample cue card and response:
Cue Card:
Describe a hobby you started recently
You should say:
- What the hobby is
- When you started it
- Why you started it
- And explain how you feel about this hobby
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
The hobby I’d like to talk about is urban gardening, which I embarked on just a few months ago. It all started when I moved into a new apartment with a small balcony, which I saw as an opportunity to bring some greenery into my urban lifestyle.
I initiated this hobby in early spring, as it seemed like the perfect time to start planting and watch things grow. The primary motivation behind taking up urban gardening was my desire to reconnect with nature while living in a bustling city. I was also intrigued by the idea of growing my own herbs and vegetables, which aligns with my goal of leading a more sustainable lifestyle.
Since starting this hobby, I’ve found it to be incredibly fulfilling. There’s something profoundly satisfying about nurturing plants from seeds and watching them flourish. It’s not just about the end result of having fresh herbs or vegetables; the entire process is therapeutic. Tending to my little garden after a long day at work helps me unwind and de-stress.
Moreover, urban gardening has opened up a whole new world of knowledge for me. I’ve been avidly researching different plant species, learning about soil compositions, and even exploring innovative techniques like vertical gardening to maximize my limited space.
This hobby has also had some unexpected benefits. It’s become a great conversation starter with neighbors and has even inspired some of my friends to start their own balcony gardens. There’s a sense of community that has developed around this shared interest.
In conclusion, urban gardening has become more than just a hobby for me. It’s a source of joy, a way to contribute to a greener environment, and a constant learning experience. I’m thoroughly enjoying every aspect of it and look forward to expanding my little urban oasis in the future.
Follow-up Questions:
- How much time do you spend on this hobby each week?
Band 6-7 Answer:
I usually spend about 3-4 hours a week on my urban garden. It’s not too time-consuming, but it’s enough to keep the plants healthy.
Band 8-9 Answer:
I dedicate approximately 5-6 hours per week to my urban gardening pursuits. This time is distributed throughout the week, with daily tasks like watering and checking for pests, and more intensive sessions on weekends for planting, pruning, and general maintenance. The time investment is quite flexible, which is one of the aspects I appreciate most about this hobby.
- Do you think this hobby has changed you in any way?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I think it has made me more patient and responsible. Taking care of plants requires regular attention and care.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely, this hobby has instigated several positive changes in my life. Firstly, it has cultivated a greater sense of patience and perseverance in me, as gardening often requires waiting and consistent effort to see results. Additionally, it has heightened my awareness of environmental issues and led me to adopt more eco-friendly practices in other areas of my life. Perhaps most significantly, it has fostered a deeper appreciation for the natural world and the intricate processes that sustain life, making me more mindful of my impact on the environment.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In Part 3, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some potential questions and answers:
Question: Do you think hobbies are important for maintaining a work-life balance?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I think hobbies are very important for work-life balance. They help people relax and forget about work stress. Hobbies also give people something enjoyable to do in their free time.
Band 8-9 Answer:
I firmly believe that hobbies play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy work-life balance. They serve as an essential counterpoint to the often demanding nature of professional life, providing individuals with an outlet for creativity, relaxation, and personal growth. Engaging in hobbies allows people to disconnect from work-related stressors and immerse themselves in activities that bring joy and fulfillment. This mental and emotional respite is invaluable for preventing burnout and maintaining overall well-being. Furthermore, hobbies can enhance various skills such as problem-solving, patience, and persistence, which can indirectly benefit one’s professional life as well.
Question: How do you think technology has changed the way people pursue hobbies?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Technology has made it easier for people to learn new hobbies. They can find tutorials online and join online communities to share their interests. It’s also made some hobbies, like photography, more accessible to everyone.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Technology has revolutionized the landscape of hobby pursuits in numerous ways. Firstly, it has democratized access to information and resources, allowing individuals to delve into niche interests that may have been difficult to explore in the past. Online tutorials, forums, and virtual communities have created unprecedented opportunities for learning and skill development across a wide spectrum of hobbies.
Moreover, technology has blurred the lines between traditional and modern hobbies, giving rise to entirely new pursuits such as digital art, podcast creation, and e-sports. It has also transformed existing hobbies; for instance, photography has been revolutionized by digital cameras and editing software, making advanced techniques more accessible to amateurs.
However, this technological integration is not without its drawbacks. The constant connectivity enabled by smartphones and social media can sometimes lead to a compulsive need to share and compare one’s hobbies, potentially diminishing the personal enjoyment and relaxation that hobbies should provide. Additionally, the ease of access to information might reduce the sense of achievement that comes from mastering a skill through prolonged effort and perseverance.
In conclusion, while technology has undoubtedly expanded the horizons of hobby pursuits, it’s crucial for individuals to strike a balance between leveraging technological benefits and maintaining the intrinsic joy and personal growth that hobbies should offer.
Describe a skill you think is important is another topic where you can demonstrate your ability to discuss personal development and its broader implications, similar to how we’ve explored the impact of hobbies.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases
To elevate your speaking performance, incorporate these advanced words and phrases:
-
Embark on /ɪmˈbɑːrk ɒn/ (phrasal verb) – to start a new project or activity
Example: “I decided to embark on learning a new language as a hobby.” -
Cultivate /ˈkʌltɪveɪt/ (verb) – to try to develop or improve something
Example: “Through gardening, I’m cultivating patience and attention to detail.” -
Therapeutic /ˌθerəˈpjuːtɪk/ (adjective) – having a good effect on the body or mind
Example: “I find painting to be incredibly therapeutic after a stressful day.” -
Intricate /ˈɪntrɪkət/ (adjective) – very complicated or detailed
Example: “Origami is an intricate art form that requires precision and patience.” -
Perseverance /ˌpɜːsɪˈvɪərəns/ (noun) – continued effort to do or achieve something despite difficulties
Example: “Learning to play an instrument taught me the value of perseverance.”
Examiner’s Advice
To excel in the IELTS Speaking test when discussing hobbies:
- Be specific: Provide detailed examples and personal experiences related to your hobby.
- Use a range of vocabulary: Incorporate advanced words and phrases relevant to your hobby and its impact on your life.
- Show enthusiasm: Your tone and body language should convey genuine interest in your hobby.
- Structure your answers: Use clear organization in your responses, especially for the Part 2 long turn.
- Extend your answers: In Part 3, develop your ideas fully and consider different perspectives on the topic.
- Practice regularly: Familiarize yourself with various hobby-related topics and practice describing them fluently.
By following these strategies and using the provided vocabulary, you’ll be well-equipped to discuss hobbies effectively in your IELTS Speaking test. Remember, the key is to speak naturally and confidently while showcasing your language skills.
Describe a time when you solved a problem under pressure can be another interesting topic to practice, as it allows you to demonstrate problem-solving skills, which are often developed through hobbies.