The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about hobbies and interests, making it a crucial topic for test-takers to prepare for. Describing a new hobby you’re considering is a common theme that may appear in various parts of the speaking exam. This article will guide you through answering such questions effectively, providing sample responses and valuable tips to help you achieve a high band score.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In Part 1 of the IELTS Speaking test, you may encounter questions related to hobbies and interests. Here are some common questions an examiner might ask:

1. Do you have any hobbies?
2. How do you spend your free time?
3. Are you interested in trying any new hobbies?
4. What kind of hobbies are popular in your country?
5. Do you think hobbies are important? Why or why not?

Let’s focus on question 3 and provide a sample answer:

Question: Are you interested in trying any new hobbies?

Sample Answer (Band 7-8):

“Yes, I’m actually considering taking up photography as a new hobby. I’ve always been fascinated by the way photographers can capture moments and tell stories through their images. Recently, I’ve been researching different camera types and techniques, and I’m eager to start experimenting with composition and lighting. I think it would be a great way to express my creativity and document my travels and experiences.”

Photography equipment for a new hobby

This response demonstrates a good range of vocabulary, clear pronunciation, and the ability to express ideas fluently. The speaker provides specific details about their interest in photography and explains their motivation for choosing this hobby.

Part 2: Long Turn

In Part 2, you might receive a cue card related to describing a new hobby. Here’s a sample cue card:

Describe A New Hobby You Are Considering

You should say:
- What the hobby is
- How you became interested in it
- What skills or equipment you would need
- And explain why you want to take up this hobby

Sample Answer (Band 6-7):

“I’m currently considering taking up rock climbing as a new hobby. I first became interested in it when I watched a documentary about famous climbers scaling impressive cliffs and mountains. It looked so thrilling and challenging that I couldn’t help but want to try it myself.

To get started with rock climbing, I’d need to invest in some essential equipment like climbing shoes, a harness, and a helmet. I’d also need to learn important skills such as proper climbing techniques, knot tying, and safety procedures. I plan to start by taking some beginner classes at a local indoor climbing gym to build my skills and confidence.

The main reason I want to take up rock climbing is that it seems like an excellent way to challenge myself both physically and mentally. I believe it will help me improve my strength, flexibility, and problem-solving skills. Additionally, I’m excited about the opportunity to connect with nature and explore beautiful outdoor locations once I’m skilled enough for outdoor climbing.

Overall, I think rock climbing would be an exhilarating and rewarding hobby that could really push me out of my comfort zone and help me grow as a person.”

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):

“I’m seriously contemplating immersing myself in the world of beekeeping as a new hobby. My interest was initially piqued when I stumbled upon an article about the critical role of bees in our ecosystem and the alarming decline in their population. This revelation sparked a desire to contribute positively to the environment while engaging in a fascinating and rewarding pursuit.

To embark on this apicultural journey, I’d need to acquire a range of specialized equipment, including protective gear such as a bee suit, gloves, and a veil, as well as hive tools, smokers, and of course, the hives themselves. More importantly, I’d need to develop a comprehensive understanding of bee behavior, hive management techniques, and sustainable beekeeping practices. I plan to achieve this through a combination of intensive reading, online courses, and hands-on workshops with experienced beekeepers.

The primary motivation behind my interest in beekeeping stems from its multifaceted benefits. On a personal level, it offers a unique opportunity to observe and interact with one of nature’s most intricate societies, providing endless learning opportunities and a sense of accomplishment. From an environmental perspective, I’m excited about the prospect of contributing to local pollination and biodiversity. Additionally, the potential to harvest my own honey and beeswax products adds an element of self-sufficiency that I find incredibly appealing.

In essence, I view beekeeping not just as a hobby, but as a gateway to becoming a steward of the environment and gaining a deeper appreciation for the delicate balance of our ecosystem. The challenges and rewards associated with this endeavor make it an incredibly enticing prospect for personal growth and environmental contribution.”

Follow-up questions:

1. How much time do you think you’ll need to dedicate to this new hobby?
2. Do you think this hobby might lead to any career opportunities in the future?
3. What challenges do you anticipate in taking up this new hobby?

Sample Answers (Band 8-9):

1. “I anticipate that beekeeping will require a significant time investment, particularly during the initial learning phase and setup. I expect to dedicate several hours each week to hive maintenance, monitoring, and continuous education. The time commitment may fluctuate seasonally, with more intensive periods during spring and summer when bee activity is at its peak. However, I believe the rewards of this hobby will far outweigh the time invested, and I’m prepared to adjust my schedule accordingly to ensure I can give it the attention it deserves.”

2. “While I’m primarily pursuing beekeeping as a hobby, I do see potential for it to open up interesting career avenues in the future. The skills and knowledge gained could potentially lead to opportunities in agricultural consulting, environmental conservation, or even entrepreneurship through selling honey and other bee-related products. Moreover, as the importance of bees in our ecosystem becomes increasingly recognized, there may be growing demand for expertise in this field, potentially leading to roles in research or policy-making related to bee conservation and sustainable agriculture.”

3. “I anticipate several challenges in taking up beekeeping. Firstly, there’s the initial learning curve associated with understanding bee behavior and hive management techniques. Secondly, there may be logistical challenges in finding a suitable location for hives, especially if I live in an urban area. Additionally, I’ll need to be prepared for the possibility of bee stings and allergic reactions, which requires careful safety precautions. Lastly, there’s the ongoing challenge of protecting the hives from diseases and predators, which will require vigilance and problem-solving skills. Despite these challenges, I’m excited about the opportunity to overcome them and grow both personally and in my beekeeping skills.”

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 sample answers:

Question 1: How do you think hobbies contribute to a person’s well-being?

Sample Answer (Band 7-8):

“I believe hobbies play a crucial role in maintaining a person’s mental and emotional well-being. Engaging in activities we enjoy provides a much-needed break from the stresses of work and daily responsibilities. Hobbies offer an opportunity for self-expression and creativity, which can be incredibly fulfilling. Moreover, pursuing a hobby often leads to a sense of achievement and increased self-esteem as we develop new skills and overcome challenges. Additionally, many hobbies involve social interaction, helping to build and strengthen relationships, which is essential for our overall happiness and sense of belonging.”

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):

“Hobbies are, in my opinion, instrumental in fostering holistic well-being on multiple levels. Primarily, they serve as a vital outlet for stress relief and mental rejuvenation, offering a respite from the demands of professional and personal obligations. Engaging in pleasurable activities triggers the release of endorphins, our body’s natural mood elevators, contributing to improved emotional stability and resilience.

Furthermore, hobbies provide a platform for personal growth and self-actualization. As individuals immerse themselves in their chosen pursuits, they often discover latent talents and develop new competencies, which can significantly boost self-esteem and confidence. This process of continuous learning and skill acquisition keeps the mind agile and can even contribute to cognitive health, potentially mitigating age-related mental decline.

Socially, many hobbies facilitate meaningful connections and community building. Whether it’s joining a local club or participating in online forums, shared interests create bonds that can combat feelings of isolation and loneliness, which are increasingly prevalent in our modern, often digitally-dominated world.

Lastly, hobbies can instill a sense of purpose and fulfillment beyond one’s professional identity. This diversification of personal interests contributes to a more balanced and satisfying life, helping individuals maintain a healthy perspective and resilience in the face of life’s inevitable challenges.”

Question 2: Do you think the types of hobbies people choose have changed over the years? Why or why not?

Sample Answer (Band 7-8):

“Yes, I believe the types of hobbies people choose have definitely changed over the years, largely due to technological advancements and shifts in lifestyle. For instance, we’ve seen a rise in digital hobbies like video gaming, digital art, and social media content creation, which didn’t exist a few decades ago. At the same time, there’s been a resurgence of interest in traditional crafts and DIY activities, perhaps as a reaction to our increasingly digital world. The growing awareness of health and wellness has also led to more people taking up fitness-related hobbies like yoga or hiking. Additionally, the ease of access to information and resources online has made it possible for people to explore a wider range of hobbies than ever before.”

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):

“The landscape of hobbies has indeed undergone a significant transformation over the years, driven by a complex interplay of technological, societal, and cultural factors. The digital revolution has undeniably been a catalyst for change, giving rise to a plethora of new pursuits that were inconceivable just a few decades ago. We’ve witnessed the emergence of e-sports, blockchain technology enthusiasts, and social media influencing as legitimate hobbies, reflecting our increasingly digitized world.

Paradoxically, this digital saturation has also sparked a renewed interest in analog and tactile activities. There’s been a notable resurgence in traditional crafts, gardening, and hands-on DIY projects, possibly as a form of digital detox and a desire for tangible, real-world experiences. This trend reflects a growing awareness of the importance of mindfulness and the therapeutic benefits of engaging in activities that connect us with our physical environment.

Moreover, the globalization of information and culture has led to a cross-pollination of hobbies across geographical boundaries. People are now more likely to adopt practices from other cultures, such as meditation from Eastern traditions or Nordic walking from Scandinavia. This cultural exchange has significantly diversified the hobby landscape.

Another crucial factor is the shifting work-life paradigm. With many people working longer hours or juggling multiple jobs, there’s an increasing emphasis on hobbies that offer flexibility and can be pursued in short bursts of time. This has contributed to the popularity of activities like podcasting, urban gardening, or micro-fitness routines.

Lastly, the growing consciousness around environmental issues has influenced hobby choices. We’re seeing more people gravitating towards eco-friendly pursuits like upcycling, zero-waste crafting, or citizen science projects focused on conservation. This reflects a broader trend of individuals seeking to align their leisure activities with their values and desire to make a positive impact.

In essence, while the fundamental human need for engaging in enjoyable, fulfilling activities remains constant, the specific manifestations of these hobbies continue to evolve, mirroring the dynamic nature of our society and technological landscape.”

Key Vocabulary and Phrases

To score high in the IELTS Speaking test, it’s essential to use a range of vocabulary and complex sentence structures. Here are some key terms and phrases that can help you describe a new hobby:

1. Immerse oneself in [ɪˈmɜːs wʌnˈself ɪn] (phrasal verb): To become completely involved in something.
   Example: “I plan to immerse myself in the world of photography.”

2. Pique one’s interest [piːk wʌnz ˈɪntrəst] (idiom): To arouse curiosity or interest.
   Example: “The documentary piqued my interest in rock climbing.”

3. Embark on [ɪmˈbɑːk ɒn] (phrasal verb): To start or begin a new project or journey.
   Example: “I’m excited to embark on this new hobby.”

4. Multifaceted [ˌmʌltiˈfæsɪtɪd] (adjective): Having many different aspects or features.
   Example: “Beekeeping offers multifaceted benefits to both the individual and the environment.”

5. Steward [ˈstjuːəd] (noun): A person who takes care of or manages something.
   Example: “Taking up beekeeping allows me to become a steward of the environment.”

6. Holistic [həˈlɪstɪk] (adjective): Characterized by the belief that the parts of something are intimately interconnected and explicable only by reference to the whole.
   Example: “Hobbies contribute to a person’s holistic well-being.”

7. Mitigate [ˈmɪtɪɡeɪt] (verb): To make less severe, serious, or painful.
   Example: “Engaging in hobbies can help mitigate stress and anxiety.”

8. Catalyst [ˈkætəlɪst] (noun): A person or thing that precipitates an event or change.
   Example: “Technological advancements have been a catalyst for changes in hobby preferences.”

9. Cross-pollination [krɒs pɒlɪˈneɪʃn] (noun): The transfer or exchange of ideas, customs, etc., between different cultures or groups.
   Example: “The internet has facilitated the cross-pollination of hobbies from different cultures.”

10. Paradigm [ˈpærədaɪm] (noun): A typical example or pattern of something; a model.
    Example: “The shifting work-life paradigm has influenced people’s choice of hobbies.”

Examiner’s Advice

To excel in the IELTS Speaking test when discussing new hobbies:

1. Practice describing various hobbies in detail, focusing on your reasons for interest, required skills, and potential benefits.

2. Use a range of tenses to discuss your past experiences, current interests, and future plans related to hobbies.

3. Incorporate idiomatic expressions and advanced vocabulary naturally in your responses.

4. Develop your ideas fully, providing examples and explanations to support your points.

5. Work on your fluency by practicing speaking on this topic without long pauses or hesitations.

6. Be prepared to discuss broader topics related to hobbies, such as their impact on society or how they’ve changed over time.

7. Listen carefully to the questions and make sure your answers are relevant and on-topic.

By following these tips and practicing regularly, you’ll be well-prepared to discuss new hobbies and related topics in your IELTS Speaking test, potentially boosting your band score significantly.

describe a skill you have been practicing recently to further enhance your speaking abilities and expand your repertoire of topics for the IELTS exam. Remember, the key to success lies in consistent practice and a willingness to engage with a wide range of subjects.