The IELTS Speaking test evaluates candidates on four key criteria: Fluency and Coherence, Lexical Resource, Grammatical Range and Accuracy, and Pronunciation. Common questions related to hiking destinations frequently appear in all three parts of the IELTS Speaking test. These questions are designed to assess your ability to speak convincingly about a familiar subject, elaborate on experiences, and express your thoughts coherently. This makes “Describe A Place Where You Would Like To Go Hiking” an excellent practice topic.
II. Main Content
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, the examiner will ask general questions about familiar topics. Here are some common questions:
- Do you like outdoor activities?
- What kind of outdoor activities do you enjoy?
- Have you ever been hiking?
Suggested Answer:
Examiner: Do you like outdoor activities?
Candidate: Yes, I absolutely adore outdoor activities. They provide a great escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life and allow me to reconnect with nature. I particularly enjoy hiking because it’s not only a physically engaging activity, but also a mentally refreshing one.
Part 2: Long Turn
For Part 2, you’ll be given a cue card and will need to speak for 1-2 minutes. Here’s a sample cue card related to hiking:
Cue Card
Describe a place where you would like to go hiking.
You should say:
- Where this place is
- Why you would like to go hiking there
- Who you would go with
- And explain what you expect to gain from hiking in this place
Suggested Answer:
One of the places I would love to go hiking is the Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado, USA. I’ve heard that it’s a spectacular destination with breathtaking landscapes, ranging from lush meadows and dense forests to rugged mountain peaks. The reason I’m so drawn to this particular place is because of its pristine beauty and the opportunities it offers for different levels of hiking.
I would go hiking there with my best friends, as we all share a passion for the outdoors. We’ve often talked about experiencing an adventure that not only challenges us physically but also allows us to bond over shared experiences.
What I particularly look forward to is the sense of accomplishment after reaching the summit of one of the park’s majestic peaks, as well as the chance to spot some wildlife in their natural habitat. Hiking in this park would certainly be a thrilling adventure and a memorable experience, one that I would cherish for a long time.
Rocky Mountain National Park
Part 3: Two-Way Discussion
In Part 3, you’ll discuss more abstract ideas related to the topic.
Examiner Questions and Suggested Answers:
Examiner: Do you think it’s important for people to spend time in nature? Why or why not?
Candidate: Absolutely, I think it’s crucial for people to spend time in nature. Being in natural surroundings can significantly improve one’s mental health by providing a sense of peace and relaxation. Moreover, it encourages physical fitness as people engage in activities like hiking, biking, or even walking. Exposure to nature is also educational; it helps individuals understand and appreciate the environment, leading to more sustainable living habits.
Examiner: How can governments promote the benefits of hiking and outdoor activities?
Candidate: Governments can promote the benefits of hiking and outdoor activities through various means. They could invest in the development and maintenance of hiking trails, national parks, and green spaces. Additionally, governments could run campaigns to raise awareness about the health benefits of these activities, ensuring they reach a wide audience. Education systems could also incorporate outdoor activities in their curriculum to instill an appreciation for nature from a young age. Subsidizing equipment or offering tax benefits to companies that encourage their employees to participate in outdoor activities could also be an effective strategy.
Vocabulary and Structures to Shine
Key Vocabulary
- Breathtaking (adj.) /ˈbreθˌteɪ.kɪŋ/: very exciting or impressive — e.g., “The view from the top of the mountain was breathtaking.”
- Pristine (adj.) /ˈprɪs.tiːn/: in its original condition; unspoiled — e.g., “The pristine beauty of the Rocky Mountains is unparalleled.”
- Wildlife (n.) /ˈwaɪld.laɪf/: animals and plants that live and grow in natural conditions — e.g., “The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife.”
- Accomplishment (n.) /əˈkɒm.plɪʃ.mənt/: something that has been achieved successfully — e.g., “Reaching the peak was a significant accomplishment.”
Useful Structures
- “One of the places I would love to go hiking is…” – This phrase helps to instantly make your answer relevant to the cue card.
- “What I particularly look forward to is…” – This structure allows you to delve deeper into specifics, showcasing a range of vocabulary and coherent thoughts.
Examiner’s Tips for High Scores
- Stay on Topic: Make sure you address all points on the cue card fully. This shows you can stay focused and cover the necessary material within the time limit.
- Use a Range of Vocabulary: While it’s important to avoid overly complex words, showcasing a wide range of appropriate vocabulary can boost your Lexical Resource score.
- Practice Fluency: The more comfortable and fluid you are in your speech, the higher your Fluency and Coherence score will be. Practice speaking for longer periods without unnecessary pauses.
- Engage Naturally: Treat the discussion as a natural conversation. Smile, make eye contact, and show genuine interest and enthusiasm in your responses.
By following these guidelines and utilizing the vocabulary and structures provided, you can confidently approach the Speaking test and aim for a high score.