The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about people we know and their hobbies. One popular topic is describing someone with a creative hobby. This article will guide you through answering such questions effectively, providing sample responses for different band scores.

Describe a recent shopping experience that made you happy can be another interesting topic to explore in your IELTS preparation. However, let’s focus on our main subject.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

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

Q: Do you have any creative hobbies?
A: (Band 7-8) Yes, I do. I’m quite passionate about photography. I find it incredibly fulfilling to capture moments and express my creativity through visual storytelling. It’s not just a hobby for me; it’s a way to see the world differently and share my perspective with others.

Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)

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

Describe A Person You Know Who Has A Creative Hobby
You should say:

• Who this person is
• What their creative hobby is
• How long they have been doing it
• And explain why you think this hobby is creative

Sample Answer (Band 6-7):

I’d like to talk about my friend Sarah, who has a very interesting creative hobby. She’s really into quilting, which is a form of textile art where you sew together different pieces of fabric to create beautiful designs.

Sarah started this hobby about five years ago when she inherited her grandmother’s sewing machine. At first, it was just a way to honor her grandmother’s memory, but it quickly became a passion for her.

What I find particularly creative about Sarah’s quilting is how she incorporates unconventional materials into her designs. She doesn’t just use traditional fabrics; she often integrates things like old concert tickets, pieces of clothing with sentimental value, or even photographs printed on fabric into her quilts. This way, each quilt tells a unique story.

I think this hobby is creative because it allows Sarah to express herself in a very personal and tangible way. She’s not just following patterns; she’s inventing her own designs and experimenting with different techniques. It’s also a form of preserving memories and creating something that can be passed down through generations, which I find really meaningful.

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):

I’d be delighted to share with you about my colleague, Alex, who has a remarkably inventive hobby that never ceases to amaze me. Alex is an avid practitioner of what he calls “literary sculpture” – a unique art form where he transforms old, discarded books into intricate, three-dimensional sculptures.

Alex stumbled upon this unconventional hobby about seven years ago during a visit to a second-hand bookstore. Inspired by the plethora of outdated encyclopedias and worn-out novels, he saw an opportunity to breathe new life into these forgotten tomes.

What sets Alex’s hobby apart is its fusion of literature and visual art. He meticulously folds, cuts, and shapes the pages of books to create stunning sculptures that often reflect the content of the original text. For instance, he once crafted an elaborate ship emerging from the pages of “Moby Dick,” perfectly encapsulating the essence of the maritime classic.

I consider this hobby to be exceptionally creative for several reasons. Firstly, it requires a profound understanding of both literature and sculpture, bridging two distinct art forms in a unique way. Secondly, Alex’s work challenges our perception of books as mere vessels for words, transforming them into visual narratives. Lastly, this hobby embodies the essence of upcycling, giving new purpose and beauty to objects that might otherwise be discarded. It’s a testament to human ingenuity and our ability to find art in the most unexpected places.

Person creating intricate literary sculpture from old books

Follow-up Questions:

1. How has technology impacted creative hobbies?
2. Do you think schools should encourage more creative activities?

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):

1. Technology has revolutionized creative hobbies in numerous ways. On one hand, it has democratized access to various art forms. For instance, digital photography and editing software have made it possible for anyone with a smartphone to explore photography as a hobby. Similarly, music production software has enabled aspiring musicians to create professional-sounding tracks from their bedrooms. On the other hand, technology has also given rise to entirely new forms of creative expression, such as digital art, 3D printing, and virtual reality experiences. However, it’s worth noting that while technology has expanded the possibilities for creativity, it hasn’t replaced the need for skill, practice, and artistic vision. If anything, it has raised the bar for what’s considered innovative in many fields.

2. Absolutely. I believe schools should place a greater emphasis on creative activities for several reasons. Firstly, creativity is an essential skill in today’s rapidly changing world, where innovation and adaptability are highly valued. Engaging in creative pursuits helps students develop critical thinking skills, problem-solving abilities, and the confidence to think outside the box. Secondly, creative activities can serve as an outlet for self-expression and emotional regulation, contributing to students’ overall well-being. Lastly, incorporating more creativity into education can make learning more enjoyable and enhance retention of academic content. However, it’s crucial that schools strike a balance between traditional academic subjects and creative activities, ensuring students receive a well-rounded education that prepares them for future challenges.

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

In this section, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here’s an example:

Q: How do you think creative hobbies contribute to society?

Sample Answer (Band 6-7):
I believe creative hobbies play a significant role in society. They allow people to express themselves and share their unique perspectives with others. This can lead to new ideas and innovations that benefit everyone. Creative hobbies also help people relax and de-stress, which is important for mental health. Additionally, many creative hobbies, like music or art, can bring people together and create a sense of community.

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
Creative hobbies make invaluable contributions to society on multiple levels. Firstly, they serve as a conduit for cultural expression and preservation, allowing individuals to explore and maintain their heritage while also fostering cross-cultural understanding. Secondly, creative pursuits often challenge societal norms and push boundaries, prompting important discussions and driving social progress. Moreover, the creative industries, which often stem from hobbies, significantly boost the economy through job creation and tourism. On a more personal level, engaging in creative activities enhances cognitive function, promotes mental well-being, and cultivates essential skills like problem-solving and critical thinking. These benefits ripple out to create a more innovative, resilient, and empathetic society.

Describe a time when the weather disrupted your plans is another interesting topic you might encounter in your IELTS Speaking test.

Key Vocabulary and Phrases

To achieve a high score in your IELTS Speaking test, it’s crucial to use a range of sophisticated vocabulary and phrases. Here are some examples related to describing a person with a creative hobby:

1. Avid /ˈævɪd/ (adjective): Very enthusiastic about something.
   Example: “She’s an avid quilter, spending hours on her projects.”

2. Intricate /ˈɪntrɪkət/ (adjective): Very complicated or detailed.
   Example: “His sculptures are known for their intricate designs.”

3. Innovative /ˈɪnəveɪtɪv/ (adjective): Introducing new ideas; original and creative in thinking.
   Example: “Her approach to photography is highly innovative.”

4. To dabble in (phrasal verb): To take part in an activity in a casual or superficial way.
   Example: “He dabbles in various creative hobbies, from painting to woodworking.”

5. Craft /krɑːft/ (noun/verb): An activity involving skill in making things by hand; to make or construct something in a skilled way.
   Example: “Pottery is her favorite craft; she loves to craft unique pieces.”

Describe a person you know who is good at cooking could be another topic to explore, showcasing different creative skills.

Examiner’s Advice

To excel in the IELTS Speaking test when describing a person with a creative hobby:

1. Use specific examples to illustrate your points. This shows depth of knowledge and helps the examiner understand your perspective.

2. Vary your vocabulary and sentence structures. Don’t rely on simple words or repetitive phrases.

3. Show enthusiasm in your tone and expressions. This can make your responses more engaging and natural.

4. Practice speaking about various creative hobbies beforehand. This will help you feel more confident during the actual test.

5. Listen carefully to the questions and address all parts in your response.

Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is to communicate effectively and confidently while showcasing your language skills.

Person practicing for IELTS Speaking test with a tutor

By following these guidelines and incorporating sophisticated vocabulary and structures, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle questions about creative hobbies in your IELTS Speaking test. Remember to describe a person who enjoys cooking and baking or describe a foreign dish you want to learn to cook if you’re asked about culinary creative hobbies. Good luck with your preparation!