The topic “describe an activity you did that was challenging” is a common theme in IELTS Speaking tests. It allows examiners to assess a candidate’s ability to recount personal experiences, express emotions, and use appropriate vocabulary. Let’s explore how to tackle this topic effectively across all parts of the IELTS Speaking test.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask general questions related to challenges and activities. Here are some potential questions:
- Do you enjoy challenging activities?
- What kind of challenges do you face in your daily life?
- How do you usually handle difficult situations?
Let’s focus on answering the first question:
Examiner: Do you enjoy challenging activities?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“Yes, I do enjoy challenging activities. I think they help me grow and learn new things. For example, I recently started learning to play the guitar, which has been quite challenging but also rewarding.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“Absolutely! I thrive on challenging activities as they push me out of my comfort zone and foster personal growth. For instance, I recently took up rock climbing, which has not only tested my physical limits but also enhanced my problem-solving skills and mental resilience. The sense of accomplishment after conquering a difficult route is truly exhilarating.”
Part 2: Long Turn
Here’s a sample cue card related to the topic:
Describe an activity you did that was challenging
You should say:
- What the activity was
- When and where you did it
- Why it was challenging
- And explain how you felt after completing it
Band 6-7 Answer:
“I’d like to talk about a challenging activity I did last summer – hiking to the top of Mount Fuji in Japan. It was my first time attempting such a difficult climb, and I was both excited and nervous.
The hike took place over two days, starting from the fifth station of the mountain. It was challenging for several reasons. Firstly, the altitude made breathing difficult as we climbed higher. Secondly, the terrain was quite steep and rocky in many places, which required careful footing. Lastly, the weather was unpredictable, with sudden changes from sunshine to cold winds and rain.
After reaching the summit, I felt an incredible sense of achievement. The view from the top was breathtaking, and knowing that I had pushed through my physical and mental limits made the experience even more rewarding. It gave me a new perspective on what I’m capable of achieving when I set my mind to it.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“I’d like to recount a particularly challenging activity I undertook last summer – scaling Mount Fuji, Japan’s iconic peak. This arduous expedition was my inaugural attempt at high-altitude mountaineering, and it proved to be both exhilarating and daunting.
The ascent was a two-day affair, commencing from the fifth station of the mountain. The challenges were multifaceted and pushed me to my limits. Primarily, the thin air at high altitudes made respiration laborious, necessitating frequent breaks to acclimatize. Moreover, the treacherous terrain, replete with steep inclines and unstable scree, demanded unwavering concentration and sure-footedness. To compound matters, the capricious weather oscillated between balmy sunshine and biting winds, accompanied by sporadic rainfall, testing our resilience and preparedness.
Upon conquering the summit, I was inundated with an overwhelming sense of accomplishment. The panoramic vistas that unfurled before me were nothing short of awe-inspiring, rendering me momentarily speechless. This triumph over physical and mental barriers provided a profound insight into my latent capabilities. It served as a poignant reminder that with perseverance and determination, one can surmount seemingly insurmountable obstacles. This experience has since become a touchstone, bolstering my confidence when facing new challenges in both personal and professional spheres.”
Hikers ascending Mount Fuji during a challenging climb
Follow-up questions:
- How did you prepare for this challenging activity?
- Would you recommend this experience to others? Why or why not?
Band 6-7 Answer (Question 1):
“To prepare for the Mount Fuji hike, I did some research online about the best routes and what to expect. I also started exercising more, especially jogging and climbing stairs, to build up my stamina. I made sure to pack appropriate clothing and gear for the changing weather conditions on the mountain.”
Band 8-9 Answer (Question 1):
“My preparation for the Mount Fuji ascent was comprehensive and methodical. I immersed myself in extensive research, consulting seasoned mountaineers and poring over topographical maps to familiarize myself with the terrain. Physical conditioning was paramount; I embarked on a rigorous training regimen that included high-intensity interval training, long-distance hiking with a weighted backpack, and exercises to enhance core strength and balance. Additionally, I invested in high-quality, weather-appropriate gear and familiarized myself with altitude sickness symptoms and preventive measures. This holistic approach significantly contributed to my successful summit.”
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 answers:
Examiner: Why do you think some people seek out challenging activities?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“I believe people seek out challenging activities for various reasons. Some do it for the thrill and excitement, while others want to test their limits and see what they’re capable of. Challenging activities can also help build confidence and provide a sense of achievement. Moreover, overcoming difficulties can be a great way to learn new skills and grow as a person.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“The human pursuit of challenging activities is a fascinating aspect of our psychology. I believe it stems from a complex interplay of factors. Primarily, there’s an innate human drive for self-improvement and personal growth. Engaging in challenging activities allows individuals to push their boundaries, both physically and mentally, leading to enhanced self-awareness and a deeper understanding of their capabilities.
Moreover, the neurochemical rewards associated with overcoming challenges play a significant role. The release of endorphins and dopamine during and after a challenging activity creates a natural ‘high,’ reinforcing the behavior and encouraging individuals to seek out similar experiences.
From a sociological perspective, challenging activities often serve as a form of social currency, allowing individuals to differentiate themselves and gain recognition within their peer groups. This ties into the human need for esteem and self-actualization, as outlined in Maslow’s hierarchy of needs.
Lastly, in our increasingly comfortable and predictable modern lives, challenging activities provide a controlled environment for risk-taking and adventure. They offer a way to break from routine, inject excitement into life, and create meaningful experiences that contribute to a sense of a life well-lived.”
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
Arduous /ˈɑːrduəs/ (adjective): Involving or requiring strenuous effort; difficult and tiring.
Example: “The arduous journey to the summit tested our endurance.”Perseverance /ˌpɜːrsəˈvɪrəns/ (noun): Persistence in doing something despite difficulty or delay in achieving success.
Example: “Her perseverance in the face of numerous setbacks was admirable.”Resilience /rɪˈzɪliəns/ (noun): The capacity to recover quickly from difficulties; toughness.
Example: “Mental resilience is crucial when facing challenging activities.”Euphoria /juːˈfɔːriə/ (noun): A feeling or state of intense excitement and happiness.
Example: “Upon reaching the summit, I was overcome with a sense of euphoria.”Mettle /ˈmetl/ (noun): A person’s ability to cope well with difficulties; spirit and resilience.
Example: “The challenging hike truly tested our mettle.”
Key vocabulary for describing challenging activities in IELTS Speaking
Examiner’s Advice
To excel in the IELTS Speaking test when describing challenging activities:
Use specific examples: Don’t just say an activity was challenging; explain why in detail.
Employ a range of vocabulary: Utilize varied adjectives and phrases to describe your emotions and the difficulty of the task.
Show reflection: Discuss what you learned from the experience and how it affected you.
Practice coherent storytelling: Ensure your narrative flows logically from the activity’s beginning to its conclusion.
Engage with the topic: Show genuine interest and enthusiasm when discussing your experiences.
Remember, the key to a high score is not just in what you say, but how you say it. Confidence, fluency, and the ability to elaborate on your ideas will significantly impact your performance.
IELTS Speaking test preparation tips for describing challenging activities
By following these guidelines and practicing regularly, you can describe a time when you organized a group activity or any challenging experience with confidence and eloquence. Remember that while preparing for specific topics is helpful, the ability to think on your feet and articulate your thoughts clearly is equally important in the IELTS Speaking test.
As you continue to prepare, consider how you might apply these strategies to other common IELTS topics. For instance, you could practice describing a family celebration you attended recently or describing a scenic spot you would like to revisit. These exercises will help you become more versatile in your speaking skills and better equipped to handle a variety of topics in the actual test.
Finally, remember that the IELTS Speaking test is not just about showcasing your language skills, but also about demonstrating your ability to engage in meaningful conversation. Whether you’re describing a memorable day you spent outdoors or describing a favorite tradition in your family, always strive to convey your thoughts and experiences in a genuine and engaging manner. This approach will not only help you achieve a higher score but also make the speaking test a more enjoyable and rewarding experience.