How to Ace the IELTS Speaking Task: Describing a Person Who Inspired Your Hobby

IELTS Mentor

3 months ago

The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about people who have influenced our lives. One common topic is describing someone who inspired you to pursue a hobby. This article will provide you with valuable tips and sample answers to help you excel in this task.

Understanding the Topic

The topic “Describe a person who inspired you to pursue a hobby” is a popular one in IELTS Speaking tests. It allows examiners to assess your ability to talk about personal experiences, describe people, and express your thoughts and feelings. This topic has appeared frequently in past tests and is likely to continue being relevant in future exams.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In this section, the examiner may ask you some general questions about hobbies and inspiration. Here’s a sample question with a suggested answer:

Question: “Do you have any hobbies?”

Sample Answer (Band 7-8):
“Yes, I do. I’m quite passionate about photography. It’s been a hobby of mine for about five years now, and I find it incredibly fulfilling. It allows me to capture moments and express my creativity in a unique way.”

Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)

Here’s a sample cue card related to the topic:

Describe a person who inspired you to pursue a hobby
You should say:

Who this person is
What hobby they inspired you to pursue
How they inspired you
And explain why this inspiration was important to you

Sample Answer (Band 7-8):

“I’d like to talk about my uncle, Mark, who ignited my passion for photography. He’s been an amateur photographer for over two decades and has always had a keen eye for capturing beautiful moments.

My uncle inspired me to take up photography about five years ago when he showed me his collection of landscape photographs from his travels. I was absolutely mesmerized by the way he could freeze time and encapsulate emotions in a single frame. His ability to tell stories through images really struck a chord with me.

Photography Mentor Inspiration

He inspired me by not only sharing his knowledge but also by encouraging me to experiment and find my own style. He lent me his old camera and taught me the basics of composition and lighting. What really sparked my interest was when he took me on a photo walk in a nearby park, showing me how to look at ordinary things from extraordinary angles.

This inspiration was crucial because it opened up a whole new world for me. Photography has become more than just a hobby; it’s a form of self-expression and a way to document my experiences. It’s taught me to be more observant of my surroundings and to appreciate the beauty in everyday life.

Thanks to my uncle’s inspiration, I’ve developed a skill that brings me joy and allows me to create lasting memories. It’s also given me a new way to connect with people and share my perspective with the world.”

Follow-up Questions

How has this hobby changed your life?

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“Photography has profoundly impacted my life in several ways. Firstly, it’s made me more mindful and observant of my surroundings. I now notice details I might have otherwise overlooked, which has enriched my daily experiences. Secondly, it’s become a creative outlet that allows me to express myself and relieve stress. Lastly, it’s opened up new social opportunities, as I’ve connected with other photography enthusiasts and even had the chance to exhibit my work at local galleries.”

Do you think it’s important for people to have hobbies?

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“Absolutely. I believe hobbies play a crucial role in maintaining a well-rounded and fulfilling life. They provide an escape from daily routines and can be a great source of stress relief. Moreover, hobbies often allow people to develop new skills, boost creativity, and foster personal growth. They can also lead to new social connections and a sense of community with like-minded individuals. In essence, hobbies contribute significantly to one’s overall well-being and quality of life.”

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

Question: “How do you think technology has changed the way people pursue hobbies?”

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“Technology has revolutionized the way people engage with hobbies in numerous ways. Firstly, it has made information and resources more accessible than ever before. For instance, aspiring musicians can now find countless online tutorials and lessons, allowing them to learn at their own pace without the need for expensive private instruction.

Secondly, technology has created entirely new hobbies that didn’t exist before, such as blogging, podcasting, and digital art. These new forms of creative expression have opened up exciting possibilities for people to explore their interests and share them with a global audience.

Moreover, technology has made it easier for hobbyists to connect with like-minded individuals through online forums, social media groups, and virtual clubs. This has fostered communities of enthusiasts who can share tips, collaborate on projects, and provide support to one another, regardless of geographical boundaries.

However, it’s worth noting that technology has also brought some challenges. The ease of access to information and resources can sometimes lead to information overload or a lack of focus. Additionally, the virtual nature of many tech-enabled hobbies might reduce face-to-face interactions and hands-on experiences, which some people may find less satisfying.

Overall, while technology has undoubtedly transformed the landscape of hobbies, offering numerous benefits and opportunities, it’s important for individuals to find a balance and ensure their engagement with hobbies remains fulfilling and meaningful.”

Key Vocabulary and Phrases

Ignite a passion (phrasal verb): To cause strong feelings of enthusiasm or excitement for something.
Example: “The art exhibition ignited my passion for painting.”
Keen eye (noun phrase): A natural ability to notice or appreciate something.
Example: “She has a keen eye for detail in her photography.”
Mesmerize (verb): /ˈmɛzməraɪz/ To capture one’s complete attention.
Example: “I was mesmerized by the musician’s performance.”
Encapsulate (verb): /ɪnˈkæpsjuleɪt/ To express the essential features of something succinctly.
Example: “The photographer managed to encapsulate the city’s essence in a single image.”
Strike a chord (idiom): To evoke a feeling of sympathy or recognition in someone.
Example: “His speech about environmental conservation really struck a chord with the audience.”
Profound impact (noun phrase): A deep and significant effect.
Example: “Learning to play an instrument had a profound impact on her cognitive abilities.”

Tips from an IELTS Examiner

Practice regularly: Set aside time each day to speak English, even if it’s just talking to yourself in the mirror.
Use a variety of vocabulary: Don’t rely on the same words repeatedly. Expand your vocabulary and use synonyms to showcase your language skills.
Develop your ideas: Don’t just give short answers. Explain your thoughts and provide examples to support your points.
Work on your pronunciation: Clear pronunciation is crucial. Pay attention to word stress and intonation.
Stay calm and confident: Remember, the examiner is there to assess your English, not to trick you. Stay relaxed and speak naturally.

By following these tips and using the sample answers as inspiration, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle this topic in your IELTS Speaking test. Remember, practice makes perfect!

For more IELTS Speaking practice, check out our articles on describing a hobby you started during the pandemic and describing a person who has inspired you to do something new.