Water sports are a popular topic in IELTS Speaking tests, often appearing in Part 2 and Part 3 questions. Being prepared to discuss various water activities can significantly boost your confidence and performance in the exam. Let’s explore how to effectively answer questions about a water sport you’d like to try, with sample responses for different band scores.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about water sports. Here’s a sample question with a suggested answer:

Examiner: Do you enjoy water sports?

Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“While I haven’t had many opportunities to try water sports, I find them quite fascinating. I’ve always been drawn to the idea of activities that combine physical challenge with the unique experience of being on or in the water. The few times I’ve been near large bodies of water, I’ve felt a sense of excitement about the possibility of trying something like surfing or kayaking. It’s definitely an area I’d like to explore more in the future.”

Describe an adventure sport you wish to try for more ideas on how to discuss exciting physical activities.

Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)

Here’s a potential cue card related to water sports:

Describe A Water Sport You Would Like To Try

You should say:

• What the sport is
• Where you would like to try it
• Why you are interested in this sport
• And explain how you think you would feel when trying it for the first time

Sample answer (Band 6-7):
“The water sport I’d really like to try is scuba diving. I’ve always been fascinated by the underwater world, and I think scuba diving would be an amazing way to explore it. I’d love to try it somewhere tropical, maybe in the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. The main reason I’m interested in scuba diving is because it seems like a unique way to discover marine life up close. I’ve seen documentaries about coral reefs and colorful fish, and the idea of seeing them in person is really exciting.

When I think about trying scuba diving for the first time, I imagine I’d feel a mix of excitement and nervousness. On one hand, I’d be thrilled to be in the water and see all the marine life. But on the other hand, I might feel a bit anxious about breathing underwater and using all the equipment correctly. I think it would take some time to get used to the sensation of being underwater for extended periods, but once I got comfortable, it would be an incredible experience.

I believe scuba diving would also give me a new perspective on the importance of ocean conservation. Seeing the beauty of the underwater world firsthand would probably make me more aware of environmental issues affecting our oceans.”

Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“The water sport that has captivated my interest recently is kitesurfing. This exhilarating activity combines elements of surfing, windsurfing, and paragliding, creating a unique and dynamic experience on the water. I’ve set my sights on trying it out along the pristine coastline of Maui, Hawaii, renowned for its ideal wind conditions and breathtaking scenery.

My fascination with kitesurfing stems from its perfect blend of athleticism and harmony with nature. The sport demands a high level of physical prowess and mental acuity, as one must simultaneously control the kite, navigate the board, and read the wind and waves. What particularly appeals to me is the sense of freedom and connection with the elements that kitesurfing seems to offer. The idea of harnessing the wind’s power to glide across the water and occasionally soar into the air is utterly enthralling.

Imagining my first kitesurfing experience, I anticipate a surge of adrenaline coursing through my veins. Initially, I expect to feel a mix of trepidation and excitement as I get to grips with managing the kite and maintaining my balance on the board. The sensation of the wind filling the kite and propelling me across the water would likely be both thrilling and somewhat overwhelming at first.

However, I believe that as I begin to gain confidence and find my rhythm, those initial nerves would give way to an incredible sense of accomplishment and pure joy. The feeling of synergy between my body, the equipment, and the natural elements would be profoundly satisfying. Moreover, I suspect that this experience would foster a deeper appreciation for the power and beauty of the ocean, potentially inspiring a lifelong passion for water sports and marine conservation.”

Kitesurfing on a beautiful beach in Maui, Hawaii

Follow-up questions:

Examiner: What skills do you think are necessary for kitesurfing?

Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“I believe kitesurfing requires a combination of physical and mental skills. Physically, you’d need good balance, core strength, and overall fitness. Mentally, it’s crucial to have quick reflexes and the ability to make split-second decisions. You’d also need to develop a keen understanding of wind patterns and how they affect your kite and board. Patience and perseverance are important too, as I imagine it takes time to master the techniques.”

Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“Kitesurfing, in my understanding, demands a diverse array of skills. Physical prowess is paramount, encompassing exceptional balance, core stability, and cardiovascular endurance. Equally crucial are cognitive abilities such as spatial awareness and rapid decision-making. A nuanced comprehension of meteorology, particularly wind dynamics, is indispensable. Moreover, mental resilience and adaptability are vital, as kitesurfers must swiftly adjust to ever-changing conditions. The sport also requires a high degree of coordination, as one must simultaneously manage the kite, board, and body positioning. Lastly, I believe a deep respect for the ocean and environmental consciousness are essential, non-technical skills that every kitesurfer should possess.”

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

Examiner: How do you think water sports contribute to tourism in coastal areas?

Sample answer (Band 6-7):
“Water sports can have a big impact on tourism in coastal areas. They attract people who are looking for fun and exciting activities during their vacations. This can bring more visitors to these areas, which is good for local businesses like hotels, restaurants, and shops. Water sports also create jobs for instructors and equipment rental companies. Additionally, beautiful beaches and good conditions for water sports can make a place famous, encouraging even more tourists to visit.”

Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“Water sports play a pivotal role in boosting tourism in coastal regions. They serve as a powerful draw for adventure-seeking tourists, significantly enhancing the appeal of beach destinations. This influx of visitors catalyzes economic growth across various sectors, from hospitality and food services to retail and transportation.

Moreover, water sports foster the development of specialized infrastructure and services, such as marinas, training schools, and equipment rental facilities, further diversifying the local economy. They also contribute to the destination’s brand identity, often becoming iconic activities associated with particular locations, like surfing in Bali or diving in the Great Barrier Reef.

Furthermore, water sports can extend the tourist season beyond traditional peak periods, as enthusiasts often travel specifically for optimal conditions, which may occur in shoulder seasons. This helps to create a more sustainable, year-round tourism industry.

However, it’s crucial to strike a balance between promoting water sports tourism and preserving the natural environment. Responsible management practices are essential to ensure that the increased tourism doesn’t lead to degradation of coastal ecosystems, which are often fragile and vital to the very activities that attract visitors.”

Describe a nature spot where you often go to relax to learn more about discussing natural environments and their benefits.

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

1. Exhilarating /ɪɡˈzɪləreɪtɪŋ/ (adjective): Making one feel very happy, animated, or elated.
   Example: “The exhilarating rush of catching my first wave made me fall in love with surfing.”

2. Pristine /ˈprɪstiːn/ (adjective): In its original condition; unspoiled.
   Example: “We chose to go kayaking in a pristine lake, surrounded by untouched wilderness.”

3. To harness /ˈhɑːnɪs/ (verb): To control and use the power of something.
   Example: “Windsurfing teaches you how to harness the power of the wind to propel yourself across the water.”

4. Synergy /ˈsɪnədʒi/ (noun): The interaction of two or more agents to produce a combined effect greater than the sum of their separate effects.
   Example: “Successful water skiing requires a perfect synergy between the skier, the boat, and the water conditions.”

5. To foster /ˈfɒstə/ (verb): To encourage the development of something.
   Example: “Participating in water sports can foster a deep appreciation for marine ecosystems.”

Examiner’s Advice

To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test when discussing water sports:

1. Develop a broad vocabulary related to water sports, marine environments, and physical activities. Use these words naturally in your responses.

2. Practice describing emotions and sensations associated with trying new activities. This will help you provide vivid and engaging answers.

3. Be prepared to discuss environmental issues related to water sports and coastal areas. This demonstrates awareness of broader implications.

4. Use a variety of complex sentence structures to showcase your language proficiency.

5. Provide specific examples and personal insights to make your answers more authentic and interesting.

6. Stay calm and composed, even if you’re asked about a water sport you’re not familiar with. Use your general knowledge to construct a logical response.

Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is not just about what you say, but how you say it. Confidence, fluency, and the ability to express your thoughts clearly are crucial factors in achieving a high score.

Describe a journey you would like to take by train for more practice in describing aspirational experiences.