Mastering IELTS Speaking: How to Describe a Break from Your Routine

IELTS Mentor

2 months ago

The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about personal experiences and daily life. One common topic that may arise is describing a time when you took a break from your routine. This subject allows examiners to assess your ability to discuss past events, express feelings, and use varied vocabulary. Let’s explore how to effectively answer questions related to this topic and achieve a high score in your IELTS Speaking test.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In Part 1, the examiner may ask general questions about your daily routine and breaks. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:

Do you often take breaks from your routine?

Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“Yes, I do try to incorporate breaks into my schedule regularly. I find that stepping away from my usual routine helps me recharge and maintain a healthy work-life balance. These breaks can range from short coffee breaks during the workday to longer vacations a few times a year.”
What do you usually do when you take a break?

Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“When I take a break, I engage in activities that are vastly different from my daily routine. This could involve immersing myself in nature by going for a hike, indulging in a creative hobby like painting, or simply unwinding with a good book. The key is to disconnect from my usual responsibilities and focus on rejuvenating my mind and body.”

Describe a memorable walk or hike you had in nature can be an excellent way to illustrate how you spend your breaks, especially if you enjoy outdoor activities.

Part 2: Long Turn

In this section, you’ll be given a cue card with a topic to discuss for 1-2 minutes. Here’s a sample cue card related to our theme:

Describe a time when you took a break from your routine

You should say:
- When this break was
- Where you went
- What you did during this break
- And explain how you felt about this break from your routine

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):

“I’d like to talk about a significant break I took from my routine last summer when I went on a two-week backpacking trip across Southeast Asia. This journey was a complete departure from my usual 9-to-5 office job and daily responsibilities.

The trip began in Thailand, where I immersed myself in the vibrant street life of Bangkok before heading to the serene beaches of Krabi. From there, I ventured into Vietnam, exploring the bustling streets of Hanoi and cruising through the breathtaking Halong Bay.

During this break, I engaged in a wide range of activities that were vastly different from my normal routine. I tried exotic cuisines, participated in cooking classes, went snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, and even attempted rock climbing for the first time. Each day brought new experiences and challenges, pushing me out of my comfort zone and broadening my horizons.

This break from my routine was incredibly refreshing and eye-opening. It allowed me to disconnect from the stresses of work and gain a new perspective on life. I felt a sense of freedom and adventure that I hadn’t experienced in years. The trip reinvigorated my spirit and sparked a newfound appreciation for different cultures and ways of life.

Returning to my routine after this break, I felt rejuvenated and inspired. The experience instilled in me a desire to incorporate more diversity and excitement into my daily life, even in small ways. It served as a reminder of the importance of stepping out of our comfort zones and embracing new experiences, no matter how daunting they may seem at first.”

Backpacking trip through Southeast Asia

Follow-up questions:

How did this break impact your work performance when you returned?

Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“The break had a profoundly positive impact on my work performance. I returned feeling reinvigorated and brimming with fresh ideas. The diverse experiences I had during my trip enhanced my problem-solving skills and fostered creativity in my approach to work tasks. Additionally, the break alleviated burnout, allowing me to tackle projects with renewed enthusiasm and increased productivity.”
Do you think it’s important for companies to encourage employees to take breaks?

Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“Absolutely. I believe it’s crucial for companies to promote a healthy work-life balance by encouraging employees to take regular breaks. This practice can boost morale, reduce stress, and prevent burnout. When employees have the opportunity to recharge and pursue personal interests, they often return to work more motivated and productive, which ultimately benefits the company in the long run.”

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

In this section, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:

How do you think the concept of work-life balance has changed in recent years?

Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“The concept of work-life balance has undergone a significant transformation in recent years, largely due to technological advancements and changing societal attitudes. With the rise of remote work and flexible schedules, the traditional boundaries between work and personal life have become increasingly blurred. This shift has both positive and negative implications.

On one hand, it has afforded people greater flexibility in managing their time and responsibilities. Many individuals now have the opportunity to integrate work and personal life in ways that suit their individual needs and preferences. This can lead to increased job satisfaction and overall well-being.

However, this blending of work and personal life has also created challenges. The constant connectivity enabled by smartphones and other devices can make it difficult for people to truly disconnect from work, potentially leading to increased stress and burnout. There’s a growing recognition of the need to establish clear boundaries and prioritize self-care to maintain a healthy balance.

Moreover, the COVID-19 pandemic has further accelerated these changes, forcing many organizations and individuals to reassess their approach to work-life balance. This has led to a greater emphasis on mental health and well-being in the workplace, with more companies implementing policies to support their employees’ overall quality of life.

In essence, the modern concept of work-life balance is less about strict separation and more about finding harmony between professional and personal spheres, acknowledging individual differences, and promoting holistic well-being.”
Do you think people in different cultures have different attitudes towards taking breaks?

Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“Yes, I believe cultural differences play a significant role in shaping attitudes towards taking breaks. In some cultures, particularly in many Western countries, there’s often a strong emphasis on work-life balance and the importance of taking regular breaks, including annual vacations. These cultures tend to view breaks as essential for maintaining productivity and overall well-being.

On the other hand, some cultures, especially in certain Asian countries, may place a higher value on diligence and continuous work. In these cultures, taking frequent or extended breaks might be seen as less important or even as a sign of lack of commitment.

However, it’s important to note that these attitudes are not fixed and are evolving over time. With globalization and increasing awareness of the benefits of work-life balance, many cultures are reassessing their traditional views on taking breaks.

Moreover, within each culture, there can be significant variations based on factors such as industry, company culture, and individual preferences. It’s crucial to avoid overgeneralization and recognize the complexity and diversity of attitudes towards breaks across different cultures and contexts.”

Cultural differences in attitudes towards taking breaks

How can taking breaks improve creativity and productivity?

Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“Taking breaks can have a profound impact on both creativity and productivity. When we step away from our work, we allow our minds to disengage from focused tasks and enter a more relaxed state. This mental shift can lead to several benefits:

Firstly, breaks provide an opportunity for our brains to process information and make new connections. This is often when we experience those ‘aha’ moments or sudden insights that can lead to creative breakthroughs. By allowing our minds to wander, we often stumble upon innovative solutions to problems we’ve been grappling with.

Secondly, regular breaks help to prevent mental fatigue and maintain focus. Our ability to concentrate is not infinite, and prolonged periods of work without breaks can lead to diminishing returns in terms of productivity. By taking short breaks, we can replenish our mental resources and return to tasks with renewed energy and sharpened focus.

Moreover, breaks that involve physical activity, such as a short walk, can increase blood flow to the brain, which has been shown to enhance cognitive function. This can lead to improved problem-solving abilities and increased creativity.

Lastly, breaks provide an opportunity to gain new perspectives. Stepping away from a problem or project allows us to return with fresh eyes, often enabling us to see things from a different angle or notice details we may have overlooked before.

It’s important to note that the effectiveness of breaks depends on their quality and timing. Short, frequent breaks throughout the day are often more beneficial than longer, infrequent ones. Additionally, truly disconnecting from work during these breaks, rather than engaging in work-related activities, is crucial for reaping the full benefits.

In conclusion, strategically incorporating breaks into our work routines can significantly enhance both creativity and productivity, leading to improved performance and job satisfaction.”

Key Vocabulary and Phrases

To achieve a high score in your IELTS Speaking test, it’s crucial to use a wide range of vocabulary and complex structures. Here are some key terms and phrases related to the topic of taking breaks from routine:

Incorporate (verb) /ɪnˈkɔːpəreɪt/: to include something as part of a group, system, plan, etc.
Example: “I try to incorporate short breaks into my daily schedule.”
Rejuvenate (verb) /rɪˈdʒuːvəneɪt/: to make someone or something look or feel younger, fresher, or more lively.
Example: “Taking a vacation helped me rejuvenate both mentally and physically.”
Stepping out of one’s comfort zone (idiom): to do something that you find difficult or that makes you feel nervous.
Example: “Traveling alone was a way for me to step out of my comfort zone.”
Broaden one’s horizons (idiom): to increase the range of one’s knowledge, experience, or interests.
Example: “Meeting people from different cultures helped broaden my horizons.”
Immerse oneself (phrasal verb) /ɪˈmɜːs/: to become completely involved in something.
Example: “During my break, I immersed myself in local customs and traditions.”
Recharge (verb) /riːˈtʃɑːdʒ/: to regain your energy and strength.
Example: “A weekend getaway allowed me to recharge my batteries.”
Disconnect (verb) /dɪsˈkɒnekt/: to separate or break a connection.
Example: “It’s important to disconnect from work during your vacation.”
Reinvigorate (verb) /ˌriːɪnˈvɪɡəreɪt/: to give new energy or strength to something or someone.
Example: “The break from routine reinvigorated my passion for my work.”
Alleviate (verb) /əˈliːvieɪt/: to make something less severe or unpleasant.
Example: “Regular breaks can help alleviate stress and prevent burnout.”
Foster (verb) /ˈfɒstə(r)/: to encourage the development or growth of ideas, feelings, etc.
Example: “Taking breaks can foster creativity and innovation in the workplace.”

Using these terms and phrases in your responses can demonstrate a high level of English proficiency and help you achieve a better score in your IELTS Speaking test.

Describe a time when you had to do something difficult could be another interesting topic to practice, as it can relate to the challenges of breaking from routine or trying new experiences during a break.

Examiner’s Advice

As an IELTS Speaking examiner, I would offer the following advice to candidates discussing this topic:

Provide specific examples: When describing a break from your routine, offer detailed information about when, where, and what you did. This demonstrates your ability to provide relevant information and use past tenses accurately.
Express feelings and opinions: Don’t just describe events; explain how you felt about the break and why it was significant to you. This shows your ability to reflect on experiences and express personal views.
Use a range of vocabulary: Incorporate topic-specific vocabulary and idiomatic expressions to showcase your language proficiency. However, ensure you use these terms accurately and naturally.
Maintain fluency: Practice speaking about your experiences beforehand to improve your fluency. Try to speak at a natural pace without long pauses or hesitations.
Develop your answers: In Parts 2 and 3, aim to provide extended responses with well-developed ideas. Use linking words and phrases to connect your thoughts coherently.
Stay on topic: While it’s good to elaborate, make sure your responses remain relevant to the question asked. This demonstrates good listening skills and the ability to provide focused answers.
Show willingness to communicate: Even if you’re unsure about a question, try to respond as best you can. The examiner is assessing your ability to communicate in English, not your knowledge of a particular subject.
Use a variety of grammatical structures: Incorporate both simple and complex sentence structures in your responses. This can include conditionals, relative clauses, and perfect tenses where appropriate.

Remember, practice is key to improving your performance in the IELTS Speaking test. Regularly discussing various topics with others or recording yourself can help you identify areas for improvement and boost your confidence.

Describe a project you worked on that was challenging can be another excellent topic to practice, as it allows you to demonstrate your ability to discuss complex situations and problem-solving skills.

By following these guidelines and practicing regularly, you can enhance your ability to describe experiences like taking a break from your routine effectively, helping you achieve a higher score in your IELTS Speaking test.