The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about personal experiences and influences. One common topic is describing someone who has inspired you to take up a new hobby. This theme allows examiners to assess your ability to talk about people, relationships, and personal growth. Let’s explore how to effectively answer such questions and maximize your score.
Understanding the Topic
The topic “describe a person who inspires you to pursue a new hobby” is a frequent subject in IELTS Speaking tests. It combines personal anecdotes with descriptive language, making it an ideal way for examiners to evaluate your English proficiency. This theme is likely to remain popular in future tests due to its versatility and relevance to everyday life.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about hobbies and inspiration. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:
Question: Do you have any hobbies?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I do. I enjoy reading and playing guitar in my free time. These hobbies help me relax and express myself creatively.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely! I’m quite passionate about a few hobbies. Photography is my primary interest – I find it incredibly fulfilling to capture moments and create visual stories. Additionally, I’ve recently taken up rock climbing, which has been an exhilarating way to challenge myself both physically and mentally.
Question: Has anyone ever inspired you to try a new activity?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, my friend inspired me to start jogging. She always looked so healthy and happy after her runs, so I decided to give it a try too.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Indeed, I’ve been fortunate to have several inspirational figures in my life. Most recently, my colleague’s enthusiasm for urban gardening piqued my interest. Her dedication to creating a green oasis in her small apartment balcony was truly awe-inspiring, and it motivated me to explore this eco-friendly hobby myself.
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 new hobby.
You should say:
- Who this person is
- What hobby they inspired you to try
- How they inspired you
- And explain how this new hobby has affected your life
Band 6-7 Answer:
The person who inspired me to pursue a new hobby is my uncle, John. He’s always been interested in photography, and his passion for it made me want to try it too.
John inspired me by showing me his beautiful photos of nature and city life. He explained how photography helps him see the world differently and appreciate small details. His enthusiasm was contagious, and I found myself wanting to capture moments like he did.
I started by using my smartphone camera, then eventually bought a proper digital camera. John gave me some basic tips and encouraged me to practice regularly.
This new hobby has had a positive effect on my life. It’s made me more observant of my surroundings and helped me develop an eye for beauty in everyday things. I’ve also made new friends through photography clubs and online communities. Overall, it’s been a rewarding experience that has enriched my life in many ways.
Band 8-9 Answer:
The individual who ignited my passion for a new hobby is my colleague, Sarah. She’s an avid rock climber with an infectious enthusiasm for the sport that ultimately compelled me to give it a try myself.
Sarah’s influence was multifaceted. Firstly, her vivid descriptions of the physical and mental challenges involved in climbing piqued my curiosity. She would often regale us with tales of her weekend adventures, describing the exhilaration of reaching a summit and the camaraderie among climbers. Moreover, the visible impact on her fitness and confidence was truly inspiring.
What really sealed the deal for me was when Sarah invited me to watch her climb at an indoor facility. Observing her graceful movements, problem-solving skills, and the sense of achievement she exuded after completing a difficult route was eye-opening. It was then that I realized this wasn’t just a sport, but a form of moving meditation and self-discovery.
This new hobby has had a profound impact on various aspects of my life. Physically, I’ve noticed significant improvements in my strength, flexibility, and overall fitness. Mentally, it’s been transformative – the problem-solving nature of climbing has enhanced my ability to think critically and creatively in other areas of life.
Perhaps most importantly, rock climbing has broadened my social circle and given me a new community. I’ve formed deep friendships with fellow climbers, bonding over shared challenges and achievements. It’s also pushed me out of my comfort zone, encouraging me to embrace new experiences and overcome fears.
In essence, Sarah’s inspiration has led me to discover not just a hobby, but a lifestyle that continually challenges and rewards me in ways I never anticipated.
Follow-up Questions
- How important do you think it is to have hobbies?
Band 6-7 Answer:
I think hobbies are very important. They help us relax, learn new skills, and meet new people. Hobbies can also be a good way to reduce stress and improve our mental health.
Band 8-9 Answer:
I believe hobbies play a crucial role in maintaining a well-rounded and fulfilling life. They serve multiple purposes: providing an outlet for creativity, offering opportunities for personal growth, and acting as a counterbalance to work-related stress. Moreover, hobbies can be instrumental in developing new skills that may unexpectedly benefit one’s professional life. They also offer a platform for social interaction and community building, which is essential for mental well-being. In essence, hobbies contribute significantly to our overall quality of life and personal development.
- Do you think people’s hobbies change as they get older?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I think people’s hobbies often change as they get older. This might be because of changes in their interests, physical abilities, or available time. For example, someone might switch from playing sports to gardening as they age.
Band 8-9 Answer:
I’m inclined to believe that people’s hobbies do indeed evolve as they progress through different life stages. This evolution is often a natural consequence of changing circumstances, priorities, and physical capabilities. For instance, high-energy pursuits popular among younger individuals might give way to more contemplative or less physically demanding hobbies in later years.
However, it’s important to note that this isn’t a universal rule. Some people maintain lifelong passions, adapting them to suit their changing abilities rather than abandoning them entirely. Additionally, advancements in technology and healthcare have enabled many to continue pursuing active hobbies well into their later years.
Moreover, as people accumulate life experiences and develop new interests, they may discover entirely new hobbies that align with their matured perspectives and values. This continuous exploration and adaptation of hobbies can be seen as a reflection of personal growth and an ongoing quest for self-fulfillment throughout one’s lifetime.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In this section, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:
Question: How do you think role models influence people’s choices in life?
Band 6-7 Answer:
I think role models can have a big impact on people’s choices. When we admire someone, we often want to be like them or do the things they do. This can influence our career choices, hobbies, or even our values. However, it’s important to remember that everyone is different, and we should make choices that are right for us, not just copy someone else.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Role models can exert a profound influence on individuals’ life choices, often in ways that are both overt and subtle. At a fundamental level, role models provide a tangible example of what success or fulfillment might look like in a particular field or lifestyle. This can be incredibly motivating, giving people a clear goal to aspire to and a roadmap for achieving it.
Moreover, role models can broaden horizons, introducing people to possibilities they might not have otherwise considered. For instance, seeing someone from a similar background succeed in a particular career can make that path seem more attainable and appealing.
However, it’s crucial to acknowledge that the influence of role models is not always positive. There’s a risk of individuals trying to emulate their idols without considering their own unique circumstances, talents, and aspirations. This can lead to unrealistic expectations or pursuit of goals that aren’t genuinely aligned with one’s own values and interests.
Ideally, role models should serve as sources of inspiration rather than templates to be copied exactly. The most beneficial approach is to critically analyze what makes a role model admirable, and then adapt those qualities or strategies to one’s own life in a way that is authentic and personally meaningful.
Question: In what ways can pursuing a hobby contribute to personal development?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Pursuing a hobby can contribute to personal development in many ways. It can help us learn new skills, improve our creativity, and boost our confidence. Hobbies can also teach us patience and perseverance, especially when we’re trying to master something difficult. Additionally, some hobbies involve socializing, which can improve our communication skills and help us make new friends.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Engaging in hobbies can be a catalyst for significant personal growth across various dimensions. Firstly, hobbies often require the acquisition of new skills, which enhances cognitive function and promotes lifelong learning. This process of learning and improving can boost self-esteem and foster a growth mindset that extends to other areas of life.
Hobbies also provide an avenue for self-expression and creativity, allowing individuals to explore facets of their personality that might not be utilized in their professional lives. This can lead to a more well-rounded sense of self and improved emotional well-being.
Moreover, many hobbies involve some form of goal-setting and achievement, which can help develop perseverance, time management skills, and the ability to handle both success and failure constructively. These are invaluable life skills that can translate into professional and personal success.
For hobbies that involve group activities or communities, there’s an opportunity to enhance social skills, build networks, and develop leadership abilities. This social aspect can also provide a sense of belonging and purpose, contributing to overall life satisfaction.
Additionally, hobbies often serve as a stress relief mechanism, promoting better mental health and work-life balance. The ability to disconnect from daily pressures and immerse oneself in an enjoyable activity can lead to improved focus and productivity in other areas of life.
In essence, pursuing a hobby can be a holistic form of personal development, simultaneously nurturing cognitive, emotional, social, and practical skills in a context that is intrinsically motivating and enjoyable.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
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Ignite a passion /ɪɡˈnaɪt ə ˈpæʃən/ (phrase) – To cause strong feelings of enthusiasm or excitement for something
Example: Her stories about exotic travels ignited my passion for adventure. -
Multifaceted /ˌmʌltiˈfæsɪtɪd/ (adjective) – Having many different aspects or features
Example: The influence of social media on society is a multifaceted issue. -
Pique one’s curiosity /piːk wʌnz ˌkjʊəriˈɒsəti/ (phrase) – To arouse someone’s interest or curiosity
Example: The mysterious package piqued my curiosity, and I couldn’t wait to open it. -
Exhilaration /ɪɡˌzɪləˈreɪʃən/ (noun) – A feeling of great enthusiasm and happiness
Example: The exhilaration of completing the marathon was overwhelming. -
Profound impact /prəˈfaʊnd ˈɪmpækt/ (phrase) – A very significant or deep effect
Example: The mentor’s guidance had a profound impact on the student’s career choices. -
Broaden horizons /ˈbrɔːdən həˈraɪznz/ (phrase) – To expand or widen one’s range of experiences, interests, or knowledge
Example: Traveling abroad can really broaden your horizons and change your perspective on life. -
Catalyst for change /ˈkætəlɪst fɔː tʃeɪndʒ/ (phrase) – Something that causes or accelerates a change or development
Example: The new technology acted as a catalyst for change in the industry. -
Well-rounded /ˌwel ˈraʊndɪd/ (adjective) – Having a personality that is fully developed in all aspects
Example: A well-rounded education should include both academic and extracurricular activities.
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when describing a person who inspires you to pursue a new hobby:
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Develop your vocabulary: Use a wide range of descriptive words and idiomatic expressions. Practice incorporating advanced vocabulary naturally into your speech.
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Structure your answers: Organize your thoughts logically, especially in Part 2. Use clear transitions between ideas to maintain coherence.
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Provide specific examples: Back up your statements with personal anecdotes or concrete examples. This adds authenticity to your responses.
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Show enthusiasm: Speak with genuine interest about your hobby and the person who inspired you. Enthusiasm can make your speech more engaging and natural.
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Practice fluency: Work on speaking smoothly without long pauses. Regular practice can help reduce hesitation and improve your overall fluency.
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Expand on your answers: In Parts 1 and 3, don’t just give short responses. Elaborate on your points to demonstrate your ability to express complex ideas.
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Use a variety of grammatical structures: Incorporate both simple and complex sentence structures. This showcases your command of the English language.
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Stay on topic: While it’s good to elaborate, make sure your answers remain relevant to the question asked.
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Reflect on the impact: When discussing how the hobby has affected your life, try to think beyond the obvious and discuss deeper, more personal impacts.
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Be authentic: While it’s important to use advanced language, make sure your responses sound natural and true to your own experiences.
Remember, consistent practice and exposure to English in various contexts will help you improve your speaking skills and confidence for the IELTS test.