Are you preparing for the IELTS Speaking test and wondering how to tackle questions about future aspirations? One common topic that often appears is describing a sport you’d like to learn in the future. This article will guide you through answering such questions effectively, helping you boost your IELTS Speaking score.
Understanding the IELTS Speaking Test Structure
Before we dive into the specific topic, let’s briefly review the structure of the IELTS Speaking test:
- Part 1: Introduction and Interview (4-5 minutes)
- Part 2: Individual Long Turn (3-4 minutes)
- Part 3: Two-way Discussion (4-5 minutes)
Now, let’s explore how to address questions about a sport you’d like to learn in the future across these different parts.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner might ask general questions about sports and your interests. Here are some possible questions and sample answers:
Sample Questions:
- Do you play any sports?
- What kind of sports do you enjoy watching?
- Is there a sport you’d like to try in the future?
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
Examiner: “Is there a sport you’d like to try in the future?”
Candidate: “Absolutely! I’ve always been fascinated by rock climbing. The combination of physical strength and mental strategy required really appeals to me. I’ve seen some incredible footage of professional climbers scaling seemingly impossible walls, and it’s inspired me to give it a try someday. I think it would be an excellent way to challenge myself both physically and mentally while also enjoying the great outdoors.”
Part 2: Individual Long Turn
In this section, you’ll be given a cue card with a topic and some bullet points. Here’s an example related to our theme:
Cue Card:
Describe a sport you would like to learn in the future.
You should say:
- What the sport is
- Why you want to learn it
- How you plan to learn it
- And explain how learning this sport might benefit you
Sample Answer (Band 6-7):
“The sport I’d like to learn in the future is rock climbing. I’ve been interested in it for a while now because it looks really exciting and challenging. I think it would be a great way to get fit and strong.
I want to learn rock climbing because it seems like a unique sport that combines physical strength with problem-solving skills. It’s not just about being strong, but also about figuring out the best way to move your body up the wall.
To learn this sport, I plan to start by joining a local climbing gym. I’ve heard that many gyms offer beginner classes where you can learn the basics of climbing techniques and safety. I’d also like to find some friends who are interested in climbing so we can practice together and encourage each other.
I think learning rock climbing would benefit me in several ways. Firstly, it would improve my physical fitness, especially my strength and flexibility. Secondly, it would help me overcome my fear of heights and build my confidence. Lastly, I believe it would be a great way to meet new people who share similar interests.”
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“The sport I’m eager to delve into in the future is rock climbing. This exhilarating activity has captivated my interest for quite some time, primarily due to its unique blend of physical prowess and mental acuity.
My enthusiasm for learning rock climbing stems from its multifaceted nature. It’s not merely a test of strength, but a complex interplay of strategy, problem-solving, and physical endurance. The idea of conquering seemingly insurmountable vertical challenges is incredibly appealing to me.
To embark on this journey, I intend to adopt a systematic approach. Initially, I plan to enroll in comprehensive beginner courses at a reputable climbing gym. These sessions will provide a solid foundation in essential techniques, safety protocols, and equipment usage. Additionally, I aim to immerse myself in the climbing community by joining local climbing groups and participating in indoor competitions to gain practical experience and insights from seasoned climbers.
The potential benefits of mastering this sport are manifold. Physically, it promises to enhance my overall fitness, particularly in terms of core strength, flexibility, and balance. Mentally, the problem-solving aspect of route planning will likely sharpen my cognitive skills and decision-making abilities. Furthermore, the sport offers an excellent opportunity for personal growth, helping me conquer fears, build resilience, and develop a deeper appreciation for nature through outdoor climbing experiences. Ultimately, I believe rock climbing will not only be a rewarding hobby but also a transformative journey of self-discovery and personal development.”
Follow-up Questions:
- What challenges do you think you might face when learning this sport?
- How popular is rock climbing in your country?
Sample Answers:
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(Band 8-9) “The primary challenges I anticipate are both physical and mental. Physically, developing the necessary strength, especially in my forearms and fingers, will likely be demanding and require consistent training. Mentally, overcoming the fear of heights and trusting the equipment will be crucial. Additionally, mastering the technical aspects of route reading and efficient movement could prove challenging but intellectually stimulating.”
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(Band 8-9) “Rock climbing has been gaining traction in my country over the past decade. While it’s not as mainstream as traditional sports like football or basketball, there’s a growing community of enthusiasts. The increase in indoor climbing gyms in urban areas has made the sport more accessible, and we’re seeing a rise in participation, particularly among young professionals seeking novel ways to stay fit and challenge themselves.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In this section, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some possible questions and sample answers:
Sample Questions and Answers:
Examiner: “Do you think extreme sports like rock climbing should be encouraged among young people?”
Candidate (Band 8-9): “That’s an intriguing question. While extreme sports can offer numerous benefits, they also come with inherent risks that need careful consideration. On the positive side, activities like rock climbing can foster important qualities in young people, such as resilience, problem-solving skills, and a strong sense of self-reliance. They also promote physical fitness and can be an excellent antidote to the sedentary lifestyle that many youths adopt in this digital age.
However, it’s crucial to balance these benefits against the potential dangers. Proper training, supervision, and safety measures are paramount. I believe that if these sports are introduced in a controlled environment with comprehensive safety protocols, they can be incredibly beneficial. It’s also important to consider the individual’s maturity level and physical readiness.
Ultimately, I think a nuanced approach is necessary. Rather than blanket encouragement or discouragement, we should focus on educating young people about both the rewards and risks of extreme sports, empowering them to make informed decisions. This could involve offering taster sessions under expert guidance, which might inspire some to pursue these activities further while helping others recognize if it’s not for them.”
Examiner: “How do you think the popularity of individual sports like rock climbing compares to team sports?”
Candidate (Band 8-9): “The popularity of individual sports versus team sports is an intriguing topic that reflects broader societal trends. In recent years, we’ve seen a notable shift towards individual sports like rock climbing, yoga, and CrossFit, particularly among young adults.
Several factors contribute to this trend. Firstly, individual sports often offer greater flexibility in terms of scheduling, which appeals to people with busy or irregular work lives. They allow individuals to pursue their fitness goals without relying on team commitments.
Moreover, the rise of social media has played a significant role. Individual sports often lend themselves well to visually striking content, which can be shared online, creating a sense of community and motivation even without physical team presence.
However, it’s important to note that team sports continue to hold a strong position, particularly in terms of viewership and participation at school and amateur levels. They offer unique benefits such as developing teamwork skills and fostering a sense of collective achievement.
In my opinion, both types of sports have their merits, and the ideal scenario is a balanced sporting ecosystem where individuals can choose based on their preferences and lifestyles. The growing popularity of individual sports like rock climbing doesn’t necessarily come at the expense of team sports, but rather expands the overall landscape of physical activities available to people.”
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
To elevate your IELTS Speaking performance, incorporate these advanced words and phrases:
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Exhilarating /ɪɡˈzɪləreɪtɪŋ/ (adjective): Very exciting and enjoyable.
Example: “Rock climbing is an exhilarating sport that gets your adrenaline pumping.” -
To delve into /delv ˈɪntuː/ (phrasal verb): To examine or investigate something thoroughly.
Example: “I’m eager to delve into the world of rock climbing and learn all its intricacies.” -
Multifaceted /ˌmʌltɪˈfæsɪtɪd/ (adjective): Having many different aspects or features.
Example: “Rock climbing is a multifaceted sport that challenges both body and mind.” -
To foster /ˈfɒstə(r)/ (verb): To encourage the development of something.
Example: “Engaging in extreme sports can foster resilience and self-confidence in young people.” -
Nuanced /ˈnjuːɑːnst/ (adjective): Characterized by subtle differences.
Example: “A nuanced approach to introducing extreme sports to youth is necessary to balance benefits and risks.”
Tips from an IELTS Speaking Examiner
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Practice regularly: Consistent practice is key to improving your speaking skills. Try to speak English daily, even if it’s just talking to yourself.
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Expand your vocabulary: Focus on learning topic-specific vocabulary and idiomatic expressions. Use them naturally in your responses.
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Develop your ideas: Don’t just give short answers. Expand on your points with examples and explanations.
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Work on your pronunciation: Clear pronunciation is crucial. Pay attention to word stress and intonation.
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Stay calm and confident: Remember, the examiner is there to assess your English, not to trick you. Stay relaxed and showcase your best English.
By following these guidelines and incorporating the sample answers and vocabulary provided, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle questions about sports you’d like to learn in the future in your IELTS Speaking test. Remember, practice makes perfect, so keep working on your skills, and you’ll see improvement in no time!