The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about personal experiences and hobbies, with sports being a popular topic. One question that frequently appears is “Describe a sport you have learned recently.” This article will guide you through answering this question effectively, helping you achieve a high score in your IELTS Speaking exam.
Describe a recipe you can cook is another common IELTS Speaking topic that requires similar descriptive skills. Both topics allow you to showcase your ability to describe processes and personal experiences in detail.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, the examiner may ask general questions about sports and physical activities. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:
- Do you enjoy playing sports?
- What sports are popular in your country?
- How often do you exercise?
Let’s focus on the third question:
Examiner: How often do you exercise?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“I try to exercise regularly, usually about three times a week. I go for a jog in the park near my house or do some basic workouts at home. It helps me stay fit and relieve stress.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“I’m quite committed to maintaining a healthy lifestyle, so I make it a point to exercise at least four to five times a week. My routine typically includes a mix of cardio and strength training. I might go for a brisk run in the morning, attend a yoga class in the evening, or hit the gym for some weight training. I find that regular physical activity not only keeps me in shape but also significantly boosts my energy levels and mental clarity.”
Part 2: Long Turn
Here’s a sample cue card for the main topic:
Describe a sport you have learned recently
You should say:
- What the sport is
- When and where you learned it
- Why you decided to learn it
- And explain how you feel about this sport now
Band 6-7 Answer:
“I’d like to talk about rock climbing, which I started learning about six months ago. I took up this sport at a local indoor climbing gym in my city. The main reason I decided to give it a try was that I was looking for a new challenge and wanted to improve my physical fitness.
At first, I found rock climbing quite intimidating, but as I practiced more, I began to enjoy the thrill of reaching new heights. The sport has helped me build strength in my arms and legs, and it’s also improved my balance and flexibility.
Now, I feel quite passionate about rock climbing. It’s not just a physical workout for me anymore; it’s become a mental challenge as well. I love figuring out the best routes to take and pushing myself to climb more difficult walls. Overall, I’m really glad I decided to learn this sport, and I look forward to continuing to improve my skills.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“I’d be delighted to share my experience with bouldering, a form of rock climbing I embarked on approximately four months ago. I initiated my journey into this exhilarating sport at a state-of-the-art climbing facility that recently opened in my neighborhood.
My decision to delve into bouldering was multi-faceted. Primarily, I was seeking an activity that would not only enhance my physical prowess but also provide a mental stimulus. Bouldering, with its intricate problem-solving aspects and physical demands, seemed like the perfect amalgamation of these elements.
Initially, I found the sport incredibly challenging and, admittedly, a bit daunting. However, as I persevered and honed my techniques, I began to experience a profound sense of accomplishment with each successfully conquered route.
As I reflect on my journey with bouldering, I’m struck by the transformative impact it’s had on various aspects of my life. Beyond the obvious physical benefits – improved strength, flexibility, and body awareness – I’ve noticed significant enhancements in my problem-solving skills and mental resilience.
The sport has become an integral part of my routine, serving as both a rigorous workout and a meditative practice. I find myself constantly amazed by the supportive community surrounding this sport and the sense of camaraderie among climbers.
In essence, bouldering has evolved from a mere physical activity into a passion that continually challenges and fulfills me. I’m eagerly anticipating further progression in this sport and exploring the myriad ways it will continue to positively influence my life.”
Describe a time when you went on a hike is another topic that allows you to discuss outdoor activities and personal experiences, similar to describing a newly learned sport.
Follow-up Questions:
- Do you think you’ll continue practicing this sport in the future?
- Would you recommend this sport to others? Why or why not?
Let’s focus on the second question:
Band 6-7 Answer:
“Yes, I would definitely recommend rock climbing to others. It’s a great way to stay fit and challenge yourself. It’s also quite fun and can be social if you go with friends. However, I’d advise people to start slowly and always prioritize safety.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“I would wholeheartedly endorse bouldering to others, but with some caveats. The sport offers an unparalleled combination of physical exertion and mental engagement, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a holistic form of exercise. It’s particularly beneficial for developing problem-solving skills, body awareness, and mental resilience.
However, I would emphasize the importance of proper instruction and safety measures, especially for beginners. It’s crucial to start at an appropriate level and gradually progress to more challenging routes. Additionally, potential climbers should be aware of the physical demands and ensure they’re in suitable condition to participate.
Ultimately, I believe the rewards of bouldering – both physical and mental – far outweigh any initial challenges. It’s a sport that can foster personal growth, build confidence, and provide a sense of community, making it a worthwhile pursuit for many individuals.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In this part, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to sports and physical activities. Here’s an example:
Examiner: How do you think technology has changed the way people participate in sports?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“Technology has definitely had a big impact on sports participation. Fitness apps and wearable devices make it easier for people to track their progress and stay motivated. Online tutorials and virtual classes have also made it possible for people to learn new sports or exercise routines from home. However, I think technology can sometimes be a distraction and might discourage some people from actually going out and being active.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“Technology has revolutionized sports participation in myriad ways. On one hand, it has democratized access to sports knowledge and training. Sophisticated apps and wearable devices now offer personalized fitness tracking, real-time feedback, and data-driven insights, enabling individuals to optimize their performance and monitor their health metrics with unprecedented precision.
Moreover, technology has facilitated the emergence of virtual and augmented reality sports experiences, blurring the lines between physical and digital realms. This has opened up new avenues for participation, particularly for those with physical limitations or geographical constraints.
Conversely, the pervasiveness of technology in sports has raised concerns about over-reliance on gadgets and potential disconnection from the intrinsic joy of physical activity. There’s a risk that the emphasis on quantification and virtual experiences might detract from the social and tactile aspects of sports that are crucial for holistic well-being.
Ultimately, I believe the key lies in striking a balance – harnessing the benefits of technology to enhance sports participation while maintaining the fundamental human elements that make physical activities so rewarding and essential for our overall health.”
Describe a nature documentary you watched and what you learned is another topic that can help you practice describing learning experiences, similar to discussing a newly learned sport.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
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Embark on /ɪmˈbɑːrk ɒn/ (phrasal verb): To start or begin a new project or activity.
Example: “I decided to embark on learning a new sport to challenge myself.” -
Exhilarating /ɪɡˈzɪləreɪtɪŋ/ (adjective): Very exciting and enjoyable.
Example: “Rock climbing is an exhilarating sport that gives me an adrenaline rush.” -
Persevere /ˌpɜːsɪˈvɪə(r)/ (verb): To continue trying to do something despite difficulties.
Example: “Although I found bouldering challenging at first, I persevered and eventually improved.” -
Holistic /həʊˈlɪstɪk/ (adjective): Considering the whole thing or being rather than just parts.
Example: “Bouldering offers a holistic workout, engaging both body and mind.” -
Amalgamation /əˌmælɡəˈmeɪʃn/ (noun): The action or process of combining or uniting.
Example: “This sport is a perfect amalgamation of physical strength and mental strategy.” -
Meditative /ˈmedɪtətɪv/ (adjective): Involving or characterized by meditation.
Example: “I find the focused nature of rock climbing to be almost meditative.”
Describe a new business idea you have can help you practice using similar vocabulary for describing new ventures and challenges, which can be applicable when discussing a newly learned sport.
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when describing a sport you’ve recently learned:
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Use a variety of vocabulary: Incorporate sport-specific terms and descriptive language to make your answer more engaging and precise.
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Provide detailed examples: When explaining your feelings or experiences, give specific instances to support your points.
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Show enthusiasm: Demonstrate genuine interest in the topic through your tone and choice of words.
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Structure your answer: Organize your thoughts logically, addressing all parts of the question in a coherent manner.
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Practice fluency: Aim for smooth delivery without long pauses or hesitations. Regular practice can help improve this.
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Demonstrate range: Use a mix of simple and complex sentence structures to showcase your language proficiency.
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Be honest and personal: Share authentic experiences and opinions to make your answer more compelling and natural.
Remember, consistent practice and exposure to English are key to improving your speaking skills. Consider recording yourself answering sample questions to identify areas for improvement.
Describe a building you like in your city is another topic that can help you practice descriptive language and personal opinions, skills that are also useful when discussing a newly learned sport.
By following these guidelines and incorporating the provided vocabulary and structures, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle the “Describe a sport you have learned recently” question and other similar topics in your IELTS Speaking test.