Describing a new activity you would like to start is a common topic in IELTS Speaking tests. It allows examiners to assess your ability to express future plans, personal interests, and motivations. This theme has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to remain relevant in future tests. Let’s explore how to approach this topic effectively across all parts of the IELTS Speaking exam.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask questions to warm you up and get you talking about activities and hobbies. Here are some potential questions and a sample answer:
Sample Question: “Do you have any hobbies or interests?”
Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I do. I enjoy reading books and watching movies in my free time. I find these activities relaxing and entertaining.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely! I’m quite passionate about a few pursuits. Photography is one of my main interests – I love capturing moments and experimenting with different techniques. Additionally, I’m an avid hiker, which allows me to stay active while exploring nature. These hobbies not only provide relaxation but also challenge me creatively and physically.
Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)
Cue Card:
Describe a new activity you would like to start
You should say:
- What the activity is
- Why you want to start it
- How you plan to begin this activity
- And explain how you think this activity will benefit you
A person preparing to start a yoga class
Band 6-7 Answer:
The new activity I’d like to start is yoga. I’ve been thinking about it for a while because I’ve heard it’s good for both physical and mental health. I want to start it mainly to improve my flexibility and reduce stress.
To begin, I plan to join a beginner’s class at a local yoga studio. I think it’s better to start with an instructor who can guide me properly. I’ve already looked up some studios near my home and found one that offers classes for beginners.
I believe this activity will benefit me in several ways. Firstly, it will help me become more flexible and improve my posture. Secondly, I think it will be a great way to relax after a long day at work. Lastly, it might be a good opportunity to meet new people who share similar interests.
Band 8-9 Answer:
The new activity I’m eager to embark on is mindfulness meditation. I’ve been increasingly drawn to this practice due to its well-documented benefits for mental clarity and emotional well-being. In our fast-paced, often chaotic world, I believe developing a consistent meditation routine could be transformative.
To initiate this journey, I’ve devised a structured approach. I plan to start with a reputable mindfulness app that offers guided meditations for beginners. Simultaneously, I’ve enrolled in an 8-week Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) course at a local wellness center. This combination of daily app-guided practice and weekly in-person sessions should provide a solid foundation.
The potential benefits of this endeavor are multifaceted. Primarily, I anticipate enhanced focus and productivity in my professional life. Secondarily, I’m looking forward to developing greater emotional resilience and stress management skills. Moreover, I believe this practice will foster a deeper sense of self-awareness and compassion, not only for myself but in my interactions with others.
Lastly, as someone who’s always been intrigued by neuroscience, I’m fascinated by the documented effects of meditation on brain plasticity. The prospect of potentially rewiring my neural pathways for improved well-being is both exciting and motivating.
Follow-up Questions:
- How long do you think it will take you to become proficient in this new activity?
Band 6-7 Answer:
I think it might take a few months of regular practice to become reasonably good at meditation. However, I understand that it’s a lifelong journey and there’s always room for improvement.
Band 8-9 Answer:
That’s an intriguing question. While proficiency in meditation is somewhat subjective, I believe it’s more about consistent practice than achieving a specific level. Based on research I’ve read, neuroplastic changes can begin to occur after just 8 weeks of regular meditation. However, to truly integrate mindfulness into my daily life and see significant benefits, I anticipate it could take anywhere from 6 months to a year of dedicated practice. It’s worth noting that many long-term practitioners view meditation as a lifelong journey of continuous growth and discovery.
- Do you think it’s important for people to try new activities regularly?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I believe it’s important. Trying new activities can help people learn new skills and make life more interesting. It can also be a good way to meet new people and expand your horizons.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely. I firmly believe that regularly engaging in new activities is crucial for personal growth and cognitive health. Neurologically speaking, novel experiences stimulate the brain, promoting neuroplasticity and potentially staving off cognitive decline. From a psychological perspective, stepping out of our comfort zones through new activities can boost self-confidence and resilience. Moreover, in our rapidly evolving world, the ability to adapt and learn new skills is increasingly valuable. Trying new activities cultivates this adaptability, making us more versatile and open-minded individuals.
People of different ages trying a new group activity
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Sample Questions and Answers:
- In what ways do you think society benefits when individuals try new activities?
Band 6-7 Answer:
I think society benefits in several ways when people try new activities. It can lead to new ideas and innovations. Also, when people learn new skills, it can help the economy by creating new job opportunities. Moreover, trying new activities can help people understand different cultures and perspectives, which can make society more tolerant and open-minded.
Band 8-9 Answer:
The societal benefits of individuals engaging in new activities are multifaceted and far-reaching. Firstly, it fosters a culture of lifelong learning and adaptability, which is crucial in our rapidly evolving global landscape. This culture of continuous self-improvement can lead to a more skilled and versatile workforce, driving economic innovation and competitiveness.
Secondly, when people step out of their comfort zones to try new activities, it often leads to cross-pollination of ideas between different fields. This interdisciplinary approach can spark innovation and creative problem-solving, potentially addressing complex societal challenges.
Moreover, engaging in diverse activities promotes cultural exchange and understanding. As individuals explore activities from different cultural backgrounds, it broadens perspectives and enhances empathy, contributing to a more inclusive and harmonious society.
Lastly, from a public health standpoint, encouraging people to try new activities, especially those involving physical exercise or mental stimulation, can lead to a healthier population, potentially reducing healthcare costs and improving overall quality of life.
- Do you think the education system should place more emphasis on encouraging students to try new activities?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I believe the education system should encourage students to try new activities. It can help students discover their talents and interests. Also, it can teach them important life skills like teamwork and time management. However, it’s important to balance this with academic studies.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Unequivocally, yes. I believe integrating a more diverse range of activities into the education system is not just beneficial, but imperative for holistic development.
Firstly, exposure to varied activities can help students uncover latent talents and passions, potentially guiding their future career choices. This aligns with the concept of multiple intelligences, acknowledging that intelligence manifests in various forms beyond traditional academics.
Secondly, engaging in new activities fosters crucial 21st-century skills such as adaptability, creativity, and collaborative problem-solving. These skills are increasingly valued in the modern workplace and are often best developed through practical, diverse experiences.
Moreover, trying new activities can enhance emotional intelligence and resilience. Learning to navigate unfamiliar situations and overcoming initial discomfort or failure are invaluable life lessons.
However, it’s crucial to strike a balance. While encouraging new activities, we must ensure it doesn’t come at the expense of core academic learning. The key lies in integrating diverse activities into the curriculum in a way that complements and enhances traditional learning, rather than competing with it.
Students engaged in a new hands-on activity in a classroom
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
Embark on /ɪmˈbɑːrk ɒn/ (phrasal verb) – to start a new project or activity
Example: “I’m excited to embark on this new chapter in my life.”Multifaceted /ˌmʌltɪˈfæsɪtɪd/ (adjective) – having many different aspects or features
Example: “The benefits of regular exercise are multifaceted, affecting both physical and mental health.”Neuroplasticity /ˌnjʊərəʊplæˈstɪsəti/ (noun) – the ability of the brain to form new neural connections
Example: “Recent studies have shown that meditation can increase neuroplasticity.”Cultivate /ˈkʌltɪveɪt/ (verb) – to develop or acquire a quality, sentiment, or skill
Example: “Through regular practice, you can cultivate a more mindful approach to daily life.”Cross-pollination of ideas (phrase) – the mixing of ideas from different fields or cultures
Example: “Interdisciplinary research often leads to a fruitful cross-pollination of ideas.”
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test when describing a new activity:
- Use a wide range of vocabulary, including less common words and phrases related to the activity.
- Demonstrate your ability to speak at length by elaborating on your answers and providing specific examples.
- Use a variety of grammatical structures, including complex sentences.
- Show your ability to discuss abstract concepts, especially in Part 3.
- Maintain fluency by practicing speaking on various topics regularly.
Remember, the key to success lies in consistent practice and expanding your vocabulary and knowledge base. Good luck with your IELTS preparation!
describe a time when you did something outside of your comfort zone to further enhance your speaking skills and broaden your perspective on discussing new experiences.