Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner will ask you general questions about yourself and familiar topics. Here are some possible questions related to sports:
- Do you play any sports?
- What’s your favorite sport to watch?
- How often do you exercise?
- Did you play any sports as a child?
Let’s focus on answering question 1: “Do you play any sports?”
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“Well, to be honest, I’m not particularly athletic, but I do enjoy playing badminton occasionally. It’s a sport that doesn’t require too much equipment or a large space, which makes it quite convenient. I usually play with friends at a local community center on weekends. It’s a great way to stay active and socialize at the same time.”
Key features:
- Uses a variety of vocabulary related to sports and exercise
- Provides reasons and examples to support the answer
- Demonstrates good use of linking words and phrases
Part 2: Long Turn
Cue Card
Describe a sport you would like to play if you had the chance
You should say:
- What the sport is
- Why you want to play it
- What skills or equipment you would need
- And explain how you would learn this sport
IELTS Speaking Cue Card: Describe a sport
Sample Answer (Band 6-7):
“The sport I’d really like to try if I had the chance is rock climbing. I’ve always been fascinated by the idea of scaling steep cliffs and conquering challenging routes. The main reason I want to play this sport is that it seems like an excellent way to challenge myself both physically and mentally.
To get started with rock climbing, I’d need some essential equipment like a harness, climbing shoes, and a helmet for safety. As for skills, I think developing upper body strength and improving my flexibility would be crucial. I’d also need to learn proper climbing techniques and safety procedures.
To learn this sport, I’d probably start by joining a local indoor climbing gym. These facilities usually offer beginner classes where experienced instructors can teach the basics. I’d practice regularly on indoor walls before attempting any outdoor climbs. Over time, I hope to build up my skills and confidence to tackle more challenging routes in natural settings.”
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“If I had the opportunity, I’d be absolutely thrilled to take up surfing. This exhilarating water sport has long captivated my imagination, primarily due to its unique blend of athleticism, balance, and harmony with nature.
The allure of surfing lies in its ability to challenge one’s physical prowess while fostering a deep connection with the ocean. I’m particularly drawn to the idea of harnessing the raw power of waves to propel oneself across the water’s surface. It’s not just a sport, but a practice in mindfulness and reading the natural environment.
To embark on this aquatic adventure, I’d need to invest in some key equipment. This would include a suitable surfboard for beginners, perhaps a foam board or a longboard for better stability. A well-fitted wetsuit would be essential for temperature regulation, along with surf wax for grip and a leash for safety.
In terms of skills, developing core strength and improving overall fitness would be paramount. Enhancing my swimming abilities and building up my paddling endurance would also be crucial. Moreover, I’d need to cultivate a keen sense of timing and spatial awareness to catch waves effectively.
To learn this sport, I’d start by enrolling in a reputable surf school. Many coastal areas offer intensive courses for beginners, which would provide a solid foundation in surf etiquette, safety protocols, and basic techniques. I’d dedicate time to practicing in shallow waters before venturing out to tackle more challenging waves.
As I progress, I’d seek out local surfing communities to gain insights and potentially find a mentor. Watching professional surfing competitions and studying technique videos would also aid in refining my skills. Ultimately, mastering surfing would be a journey of continuous learning and respect for the ocean, which is precisely what makes it so appealing to me.”
Follow-up Questions
- What are the potential risks associated with this sport?
- How might learning this sport benefit your overall health and well-being?
Sample answer for question 1 (Band 8-9):
“Surfing, like any extreme sport, comes with its share of inherent risks. Foremost among these is the danger of drowning, especially when tackling powerful waves or surfing in unfamiliar waters. The sheer force of the ocean can overwhelm even experienced swimmers, making it crucial to maintain a high level of respect for the sea.
Another significant risk is the possibility of collisions, either with other surfers or with the surfboard itself. In crowded surf spots, the chance of accidentally bumping into or being hit by another surfer’s board increases dramatically. Moreover, wiping out on a wave can result in your own board striking you, potentially causing serious injuries.
Marine life encounters also pose a potential threat. While shark attacks are extremely rare, they remain a concern in certain areas. More common hazards include jellyfish stings or cuts from coral reefs, which can be painful and potentially dangerous if not treated properly.
Lastly, prolonged exposure to sun and saltwater can lead to health issues such as severe sunburn, dehydration, or ear infections if proper precautions aren’t taken. It’s imperative to use high-SPF sunscreen, stay hydrated, and rinse thoroughly after each session.”
Surfer riding a large wave
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Examiner: “Let’s talk more about sports in general. How do you think participation in sports can benefit society?”
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“I believe that sports participation can have numerous positive impacts on society. Firstly, it promotes physical health, which can lead to a reduction in healthcare costs and improve overall quality of life. Additionally, sports can foster a sense of community and bring people together, regardless of their backgrounds or social status.
Furthermore, team sports in particular can teach valuable life skills such as teamwork, leadership, and communication. These skills are transferable to many other areas of life, including the workplace and personal relationships.
Lastly, sports can serve as a positive outlet for youth, potentially reducing crime rates and promoting discipline. By providing structured activities and goals to work towards, sports can help young people develop a sense of purpose and self-esteem.”
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“The benefits of sports participation on society are multifaceted and far-reaching. At its core, sport serves as a powerful catalyst for physical and mental well-being, contributing significantly to public health initiatives. By fostering a culture of regular exercise and healthy competition, we can potentially alleviate the burden on healthcare systems and enhance the overall vitality of our communities.
Moreover, sports possess an unparalleled ability to transcend social, cultural, and economic boundaries. They act as a universal language, bringing diverse groups together under a common passion. This social cohesion can play a crucial role in breaking down prejudices and fostering mutual understanding among different segments of society.
From an educational perspective, sports offer a dynamic platform for character development. Qualities such as resilience, strategic thinking, and emotional intelligence are honed through athletic pursuits. These attributes are invaluable in shaping well-rounded individuals capable of navigating life’s challenges with grace and determination.
Additionally, the economic impact of sports should not be underestimated. From local community leagues to international tournaments, sports generate employment, boost tourism, and stimulate economic growth in various sectors.
Lastly, sports can serve as a powerful tool for social change and activism. High-profile athletes often use their platforms to raise awareness about important social issues, inspiring millions and catalyzing meaningful discussions on a global scale.
In essence, embracing sports as an integral part of societal fabric can lead to a more healthy, united, and empowered population, ultimately contributing to the overall progress and well-being of society.”
Key Vocabulary and Phrases
Exhilarating /ɪɡˈzɪləreɪtɪŋ/ (adj): Causing strong feelings of excitement and happiness
Example: “Surfing is an exhilarating sport that gives you an adrenaline rush.”To harness /ˈhɑːrnəs/ (v): To control and use the force or strength of something to produce power or achieve something
Example: “Surfers learn to harness the power of the waves to propel themselves forward.”Mindfulness /ˈmaɪndfəlnəs/ (n): The practice of being aware of your body, mind, and feelings in the present moment
Example: “Many people find that surfing promotes mindfulness and connection with nature.”To cultivate /ˈkʌltɪveɪt/ (v): To try to develop or improve a skill, quality, or attitude
Example: “Learning to surf requires cultivating patience and perseverance.”Inherent /ɪnˈhɪərənt/ (adj): Existing as a natural or basic part of something
Example: “There are inherent risks in any extreme sport, including surfing.”
Essential surfing equipment
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when describing a sport you’d like to try:
Use a wide range of vocabulary: Incorporate sport-specific terms and descriptive language to showcase your lexical resource.
Provide detailed explanations: Don’t just state facts; elaborate on your reasons and give specific examples to support your points.
Maintain fluency: Practice speaking at length about various topics to improve your ability to speak continuously and coherently.
Show enthusiasm: Your tone and choice of words should reflect genuine interest in the sport you’re describing.
Structure your answer: Use clear organization in your long turn, addressing all parts of the cue card systematically.
Use advanced grammar structures: Incorporate a mix of simple and complex sentences, and use a variety of tenses appropriately.
Practice pronunciation: Work on clear articulation and proper stress on words to enhance your delivery.
Develop your ideas: In Part 3, try to discuss the topic from different angles and consider broader implications.
Remember, consistent practice and exposure to English are key to improving your speaking skills. Good luck with your IELTS preparation!