In recent IELTS Speaking exams, candidates have frequently encountered questions about hobbies and future aspirations. The topic “Describe A Hobby You Want To Pursue In The Future” is particularly common, appearing in various forms across all three parts of the speaking test. This article will guide you through answering such questions effectively, providing sample responses for different band scores.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about hobbies. Here are some common questions and a sample answer:

1. Do you have any hobbies?
2. What hobbies are popular in your country?
3. How do people usually spend their free time where you live?
4. Are there any hobbies you’d like to try in the future?

Let’s focus on the last question as it aligns closely with our main topic.

Sample answer (Band 8-9):

“Actually, I’ve been contemplating taking up photography as a hobby in the near future. I’ve always been fascinated by the way skilled photographers can capture fleeting moments and transform them into lasting memories. Moreover, I believe it would be an excellent way to combine my love for travel with a creative outlet. I’m particularly drawn to landscape and street photography, as they offer unique perspectives on both natural beauty and human interactions.”

Describe a goal you set for yourself and achieved is another common topic in IELTS Speaking. Learning to articulate your aspirations and achievements can significantly boost your performance across various question types.

Part 2: Long Turn

In this section, you’ll be given a cue card with a topic and some bullet points. Here’s a sample cue card related to our theme:

Describe a hobby you want to pursue in the future.
You should say:

• What the hobby is
• Why you want to pursue it
• How you plan to start this hobby
• And explain how this hobby might benefit you

Sample answer (Band 8-9):

“The hobby I’m eager to pursue in the future is urban sketching. This artistic practice involves drawing on location in cities, towns, or villages, capturing the essence of a place through quick, observational sketches.

I’m drawn to this hobby for several reasons. Firstly, it combines my passion for art with my love for exploring new places. Secondly, urban sketching encourages mindfulness and helps you really observe and appreciate your surroundings. Moreover, it’s a fantastic way to create unique, personal souvenirs of my travels.

To embark on this hobby, I plan to start by investing in a portable sketchbook and a set of quality pens or watercolors. I’ll begin by practicing in my own neighborhood, gradually building confidence before venturing into busier urban areas. I also intend to join online urban sketching communities to learn techniques and gain inspiration from experienced artists.

I believe this hobby will benefit me in numerous ways. It will undoubtedly enhance my observational skills and artistic abilities. Furthermore, it will encourage me to explore my surroundings more deeply, potentially leading to new discoveries and experiences. On a personal level, I think it will serve as a therapeutic outlet, allowing me to de-stress and express myself creatively. Lastly, the sketches I create will serve as a visual diary, preserving memories in a uniquely personal and artistic way.”

Urban sketching as a future hobby

For those aiming for a Band 6-7, here’s a simpler version:

“The hobby I want to try in the future is urban sketching. It’s about drawing the places you visit, like cities or towns. I want to do this because I like art and traveling, and this hobby combines both. To start, I’ll buy a sketchbook and some pens, and practice drawing in my neighborhood. I think this hobby will help me become better at drawing and help me remember the places I visit.”

Possible follow-up questions:

1. Do you think hobbies are important for personal development?
2. How do you think technology has changed the way people pursue hobbies?

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

“I firmly believe that hobbies play a crucial role in personal development. They provide an outlet for creativity and self-expression, allowing individuals to explore their interests and passions outside of work or academic commitments. Engaging in hobbies can also foster the development of new skills, enhance problem-solving abilities, and boost self-confidence. Moreover, hobbies often serve as a means of stress relief and can contribute significantly to one’s overall mental well-being. In essence, they offer a well-rounded approach to personal growth, balancing professional development with personal fulfillment.”

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

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

1. How do you think hobbies contribute to society?
2. Do you believe the government should support people’s hobbies? Why or why not?
3. How might hobbies change in the future with advancing technology?

Let’s focus on the third question:

Sample answer (Band 8-9):

“I believe that advancing technology will have a profound impact on how people pursue hobbies in the future. On one hand, technology is likely to make many hobbies more accessible. For instance, virtual reality could allow people to experience activities like skydiving or mountain climbing without the associated risks or costs. Additionally, AI and machine learning might enhance learning experiences, providing personalized guidance for hobbies like playing musical instruments or painting.

However, this technological integration might also pose challenges. There’s a risk that some traditional hobbies could become obsolete or lose their essence. For example, the art of handwriting or analog photography might be replaced by digital alternatives. Moreover, the increasing digitalization of hobbies could potentially lead to a decrease in face-to-face social interactions that many hobbies currently foster.

That being said, I believe technology will also give rise to entirely new forms of hobbies. We’re already seeing this with e-sports and digital art. In the future, we might see hobbies centered around things like programming AI, designing virtual worlds, or even space tourism as technology advances.

Ultimately, while technology will undoubtedly transform the landscape of hobbies, the fundamental human desire for leisure, creativity, and personal growth will remain constant. The challenge will be to harness technology in ways that enhance, rather than diminish, the personal and social benefits that hobbies provide.”

Describe a hobby you would like to start in the future is a closely related topic that you might encounter in your IELTS Speaking test. Being prepared for such variations can help you adapt your responses effectively.

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

1. To pursue (verb) /pəˈsjuː/ – to do something or try to achieve something over a period of time
   Example: “I plan to pursue photography as a serious hobby.”

2. Fascinated by (adjective phrase) /ˈfæsɪneɪtɪd baɪ/ – very interested in or attracted by something
   Example: “I’ve always been fascinated by the art of storytelling.”

3. Contemplating (verb) /ˈkɒntəmpleɪtɪŋ/ – thinking about something carefully for a long time
   Example: “I’m contemplating taking up a new hobby to broaden my horizons.”

4. Drawn to (adjective phrase) /drɔːn tuː/ – attracted to or interested in something
   Example: “I’m particularly drawn to hobbies that allow me to express my creativity.”

5. Mindfulness (noun) /ˈmaɪndfəlnəs/ – the practice of being aware of your thoughts, feelings, and surroundings
   Example: “Practicing mindfulness through my hobby helps me reduce stress.”

Practicing mindfulness through hobbies

Describe a hobby that you would like to try is another variation you might encounter. Being familiar with a range of hobby-related vocabulary can help you discuss various potential interests fluently.

Examiner’s Advice for High Scores

1. Vocabulary: Use a wide range of vocabulary relevant to hobbies and personal interests. Incorporate idiomatic expressions and phrasal verbs naturally.

2. Fluency: Practice speaking at length about your interests. Aim for smooth delivery with minimal hesitation.

3. Coherence: Structure your answers logically. Use discourse markers to connect ideas and create a flow in your speech.

4. Pronunciation: Work on clear pronunciation and natural intonation. Pay attention to word stress, especially in longer words.

5. Grammar: Demonstrate your ability to use a variety of grammatical structures accurately. Include complex sentences and different tenses as appropriate.

6. Development of Ideas: Don’t just list points; expand on your ideas with examples and personal experiences.

7. Authenticity: While it’s good to prepare, avoid memorized answers. Speak naturally and be ready to adapt your responses to the specific questions asked.

Describe a hobby you started recently is another topic you might encounter. Being able to discuss both future plans and recent experiences can showcase your versatility in language use.

Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is not just about answering the question, but how you express your ideas. Practice regularly, record yourself, and seek feedback to improve your performance. With dedication and the right approach, you can significantly enhance your speaking skills and achieve the band score you desire.

IELTS Speaking practice session

Describe a skill you want to master is a related topic that can help you practice discussing future aspirations in a similar context to hobbies. Mastering the ability to talk about both hobbies and skills you wish to develop can greatly enhance your performance in the IELTS Speaking test.