Mastering IELTS Speaking: How to Describe an Activity You Enjoy in Your Free Time

The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about leisure activities, making it crucial for candidates to be prepared to discuss their hobbies and pastimes. This topic has consistently appeared in past exams and is likely to remain relevant in future tests. Let’s explore how to effectively answer questions related to describing an activity you enjoy in your free time.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In this section, the examiner may ask several questions to warm up the conversation. Here are some common questions you might encounter:

1. What do you like to do in your free time?
2. How often do you engage in this activity?
3. When did you start doing this activity?
4. Do you prefer indoor or outdoor activities?

Let’s focus on answering the first question:

Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“In my free time, I really enjoy photography. It’s a hobby that allows me to capture moments and express my creativity. I find it incredibly relaxing to go out with my camera and explore different locations, looking for interesting subjects to photograph. It’s not just about taking pictures; it’s also about telling stories through images.”

Describe a place in your country where you enjoy spending time could be an excellent opportunity to discuss photography locations that inspire you.

Part 2: Long Turn

In this section, you’ll be given a cue card with a topic and some prompts. Here’s a sample cue card related to our theme:

Describe an activity you enjoy doing in your free time
You should say:
- What the activity is
- When you started doing it
- How often you do it
- Why you enjoy it

Sample answer (Band 8-9):

“I’d like to talk about photography, which is an activity I thoroughly enjoy in my spare time. I first developed an interest in photography about five years ago when I received a digital camera as a birthday gift. Since then, it has evolved from a casual hobby into a passionate pursuit.

I try to dedicate time to photography at least once a week, usually on weekends when I have more free time. However, I always carry my camera with me, as you never know when an opportune moment for a great shot might arise.

What I find most appealing about photography is its ability to freeze moments in time. It’s not just about capturing images; it’s about preserving memories and emotions. I love how it challenges me to see the world from different perspectives and pushes me to be more observant of my surroundings.

Photography also serves as a creative outlet, allowing me to express myself through visual storytelling. There’s something incredibly satisfying about composing a shot, adjusting the settings, and finally capturing an image that conveys exactly what I envisioned.

Moreover, it’s an activity that constantly encourages learning. Whether it’s mastering new techniques, experimenting with different styles, or learning to use editing software, there’s always room for growth and improvement.

In essence, photography is more than just a hobby for me. It’s a way to document life, challenge myself creatively, and share my unique perspective with others. It brings me joy, relaxation, and a sense of accomplishment, making it an invaluable part of my free time.”

Photography as an enjoyable free time activity

Follow-up questions:

1. How has technology changed the way people pursue photography as a hobby?
2. Do you think photography can be a good career option?

Sample answers (Band 8-9):

1. “Technology has revolutionized photography in numerous ways. Smartphones with high-quality cameras have made photography more accessible to everyone, allowing people to capture and share moments instantly. Digital cameras have eliminated the need for film and made it easier to experiment without worrying about wasting shots. Additionally, editing software has opened up new possibilities for post-processing, enabling hobbyists to enhance their images and achieve professional-looking results. Social media platforms have also transformed how we share and appreciate photographs, creating communities of like-minded enthusiasts who can exchange ideas and inspire each other.”

2. “Absolutely, I believe photography can be an excellent career option for those passionate about it. There are various paths one can take, such as freelance photography, photojournalism, commercial photography, or even fine art photography. The digital age has created new opportunities, like social media photography and influencer collaborations. However, it’s important to note that becoming a professional photographer requires more than just technical skills. It demands business acumen, networking abilities, and the capacity to continuously adapt to changing trends and technologies. While it can be highly competitive, those who can carve out a niche for themselves and consistently produce high-quality work can find it to be a rewarding and lucrative career.”

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:

1. How do you think hobbies contribute to a person’s well-being?

Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“Hobbies play a crucial role in promoting overall well-being. They provide a much-needed escape from the stresses of daily life, allowing individuals to engage in activities they genuinely enjoy. This can lead to reduced stress levels and improved mental health. Moreover, hobbies often challenge us intellectually or physically, which can boost self-esteem and provide a sense of accomplishment. They also offer opportunities for social interaction and community building, especially when pursued in groups or clubs. In essence, hobbies contribute to a well-rounded lifestyle, helping to balance work and leisure, and ultimately leading to greater life satisfaction.”

2. Do you think the types of activities people enjoy in their free time have changed over the years?

Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“Yes, I believe there has been a significant shift in the types of activities people enjoy in their free time. With the advent of technology, we’ve seen a rise in digital entertainment such as video gaming, streaming services, and social media. These platforms offer instant gratification and can be accessed from the comfort of one’s home. However, there’s also been a growing trend towards health and wellness activities like yoga, meditation, and fitness classes. People are becoming more conscious of their physical and mental well-being. Additionally, there’s been an increased interest in experiential activities and travel, as people seek unique experiences and memories rather than material possessions.”

Describe a time when you volunteered for a community project could be an interesting way to explore how people’s free time activities can benefit others.

3. In what ways can hobbies and leisure activities contribute to a person’s career development?

Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“Hobbies and leisure activities can significantly contribute to career development in several ways. Firstly, they can help develop transferable skills that are valuable in the workplace. For instance, team sports can enhance leadership and collaboration skills, while creative hobbies can foster innovation and problem-solving abilities. Secondly, hobbies can provide networking opportunities, allowing individuals to connect with like-minded people who might become professional contacts. Moreover, pursuing interests outside of work demonstrates initiative and passion, qualities that employers often value. Some hobbies can even lead to alternative career paths or side businesses. Lastly, engaging in enjoyable activities outside of work promotes better work-life balance, which can lead to increased productivity and job satisfaction, ultimately benefiting one’s career progression.”

The connection between hobbies and career development

Key Vocabulary and Phrases

To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test, it’s crucial to use a range of vocabulary and complex structures. Here are some key terms and phrases that can help elevate your responses:

1. Pursue a hobby /pəˈsjuː ə ˈhɒbi/ (phrasal verb): to follow or engage in an interest or activity
   Example: “I’ve been pursuing photography as a hobby for several years now.”

2. Immerse oneself /ɪˈmɜːs wʌnˈself/ (reflexive verb): to become completely involved in something
   Example: “When I have free time, I like to immerse myself in my painting projects.”

3. Recharge /riːˈtʃɑːdʒ/ (verb): to regain energy or spirit
   Example: “Gardening helps me recharge after a long week at work.”

4. Therapeutic /ˌθerəˈpjuːtɪk/ (adjective): having a beneficial effect on the body or mind
   Example: “I find cooking to be incredibly therapeutic, especially when I’m stressed.”

5. Broaden horizons /ˈbrɔːdn həˈraɪznz/ (idiom): to expand one’s range of interests, experiences, or knowledge
   Example: “Traveling as a hobby has really helped broaden my horizons and understand different cultures.”

Describe a person who inspires you to be more active could be a great opportunity to use some of these phrases in context.

Examiner’s Advice

To excel in the IELTS Speaking test when discussing activities you enjoy in your free time:

1. Be specific: Rather than giving general answers, provide details about your hobby. This shows depth of knowledge and genuine interest.

2. Use a range of tenses: Incorporate past, present, and future tenses to discuss when you started the hobby, how often you do it now, and your plans related to it.

3. Show enthusiasm: Use intonation and positive language to convey your enjoyment of the activity.

4. Provide examples: Illustrate your points with specific instances or experiences related to your hobby.

5. Link to broader themes: Connect your hobby to wider topics such as personal growth, social interactions, or cultural significance.

6. Practice fluency: Aim for smooth delivery without long pauses. Regular practice speaking about your hobbies can help achieve this.

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 all crucial factors in achieving a high score.

Describe an activity you enjoyed in your free time when you were young can be an excellent way to practice discussing hobbies in different time frames.

By following these guidelines and incorporating the suggested vocabulary and phrases, you’ll be well-prepared to discuss your free time activities in the IELTS Speaking test. Remember to practice regularly and stay updated on current topics to further enhance your performance.

IELTS Speaking test preparation strategies

Describe a book you recently read that you found interesting could be another engaging topic to explore, especially if reading is one of your favorite free-time activities.