Adventure sports have become an increasingly popular topic in IELTS Speaking exams, particularly when candidates are asked to describe future aspirations or exciting experiences. The question “Describe an adventure sport you would like to try in the future” is likely to appear in Part 2 of the Speaking test, but related questions may also come up in Parts 1 and 3. Let’s explore how to effectively answer this question and maximize your score.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, the examiner may ask some general questions about sports and adventures. Here’s a sample question with a suggested answer:
Examiner: Do you enjoy trying new activities?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
Absolutely! I’m quite an adventurous person and I thrive on new experiences. Whenever I have the opportunity, I jump at the chance to try something different, whether it’s tasting exotic cuisine or attempting a challenging sport. I believe that stepping out of our comfort zones is essential for personal growth and keeps life exciting.
describe a new sport or activity you recently discovered
Part 2: Long Turn
Here’s a sample cue card for this topic:
Describe an adventure sport you would like to try in the future
You should say:
- What the sport is
- Where you would do it
- Why you want to try it
- And explain how you think you would feel when doing this sport
Sample answer (Band 6-7):
I’ve always been fascinated by extreme sports, and one adventure sport I’d really like to try in the future is skydiving. It’s something I’ve seen in movies and on TV, and it looks incredibly thrilling.
I’d love to do this somewhere with breathtaking scenery, perhaps over the Swiss Alps or the beaches of Hawaii. The idea of jumping out of a plane at such a high altitude and freefalling through the air before opening the parachute sounds both terrifying and exciting.
The main reason I want to try skydiving is to challenge myself and overcome my fear of heights. I think it would be an incredible adrenaline rush and a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Plus, the view from up there must be absolutely spectacular.
I imagine I would feel a mix of intense emotions when doing this sport. At first, I’d probably be extremely nervous and scared, especially when standing at the open door of the plane. But once I jumped, I think the fear would give way to pure excitement and exhilaration. The feeling of flying through the air must be incredibly freeing and liberating.
Overall, I believe skydiving would be an unforgettable adventure that would push me out of my comfort zone and give me a new perspective on life – quite literally!
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
One adventure sport that has captivated my imagination for years is wingsuit flying. This extreme sport involves gliding through the air using a special jumpsuit with fabric between the arms and legs, creating a wing-like surface area that allows for controlled descent and remarkable maneuverability.
I’d be thrilled to attempt this exhilarating activity in a location renowned for its breathtaking vistas and optimal conditions for wingsuit flying, such as the Swiss Alps or the fjords of Norway. These locations offer not only stunning natural beauty but also the necessary altitude and terrain for a safe and awe-inspiring flight.
My desire to try wingsuit flying stems from a profound fascination with human flight and a deep-seated urge to push my physical and mental boundaries. This sport represents the pinnacle of human aerial achievement without mechanical assistance, and the prospect of soaring like a bird through majestic landscapes is utterly enticing.
I anticipate that engaging in wingsuit flying would evoke a kaleidoscope of emotions. Initially, I’d likely experience a surge of trepidation and nervous excitement as I prepare to launch myself off a cliff or exit an aircraft. However, once airborne, I imagine a euphoric sense of freedom would wash over me, accompanied by an intense rush of adrenaline. The sensation of gliding effortlessly through the air, with the wind rushing past and the earth sprawling beneath me, would undoubtedly be both humbling and empowering.
Moreover, I believe this experience would foster a profound connection with the natural world and instill a newfound appreciation for human potential. It would not only satisfy my thirst for adventure but also provide a unique perspective on life, reminding me of the importance of embracing challenges and living life to the fullest.
Follow-up questions:
- How long does it take to learn this sport?
- What are the main safety concerns associated with this adventure sport?
- Do you think adventure sports are becoming more popular? Why or why not?
Sample answer for question 1 (Band 8-9):
Learning wingsuit flying is a gradual and intensive process that typically spans several years. Before even attempting a wingsuit flight, one must first become a highly proficient skydiver, having completed at least 200 skydives. This foundation is crucial for developing the necessary skills in freefall, canopy control, and emergency procedures.
Once this prerequisite is met, aspiring wingsuit flyers undergo specialized training, which usually takes several months to a year. This training includes ground school sessions to learn about wingsuit aerodynamics, flight techniques, and safety protocols. Participants then progress to supervised wingsuit jumps, starting with beginner-friendly suits and gradually advancing to more complex designs.
It’s important to note that mastering wingsuit flying is a continuous journey. Even experienced flyers constantly refine their skills and adapt to new technologies and techniques. Ultimately, becoming truly proficient in this sport can take anywhere from 3 to 5 years of dedicated practice and continuous learning.
The time investment is substantial, but it’s absolutely necessary given the high-risk nature of the sport. This extensive training period ensures that practitioners have the skills, knowledge, and experience to navigate the unique challenges of wingsuit flying safely and confidently.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Examiner: Do you think adventure sports should be encouraged among young people?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
That’s an interesting question, and I believe there are pros and cons to consider. On one hand, adventure sports can be incredibly beneficial for young people. They can help build confidence, develop problem-solving skills, and foster a sense of resilience. These activities often push individuals out of their comfort zones, which is crucial for personal growth and development.
Moreover, adventure sports can promote physical fitness and provide a healthy outlet for the natural desire for excitement and risk-taking that many young people experience. They can also instill a deep appreciation for nature and the environment, especially when these activities take place in stunning outdoor settings.
However, we can’t ignore the potential risks involved. Many adventure sports come with a significant element of danger, and young people may not always have the maturity or judgment to fully understand and mitigate these risks. There’s also the concern of peer pressure potentially pushing individuals to attempt activities they’re not ready for.
Ultimately, I believe that with proper guidance, training, and safety measures in place, adventure sports can be a positive influence on young people. The key is to ensure that they’re introduced to these activities in a responsible manner, with a strong emphasis on safety, skill development, and gradual progression. It’s also important to teach young people how to assess risks and make informed decisions about their participation in these sports.
describe a river or lake that you would like to visit
Key Vocabulary and Phrases
To achieve a high score in your IELTS Speaking test when discussing adventure sports, consider using the following vocabulary and phrases:
-
Adrenaline rush (noun) – a sudden burst of energy from excitement
Pronunciation: /əˈdren.əl.ɪn rʌʃ/
Example: “Skydiving gives me an incredible adrenaline rush.” -
Push one’s limits (phrase) – to test one’s abilities to the maximum
Example: “Adventure sports allow you to really push your limits.” -
Take the plunge (idiom) – to commit to a challenging course of action
Pronunciation: /teɪk ðə plʌndʒ/
Example: “After years of hesitation, I finally took the plunge and tried bungee jumping.” -
Thrill-seeker (noun) – a person who enjoys exciting experiences
Pronunciation: /ˈθrɪl siːkər/
Example: “As a thrill-seeker, I’m always looking for new adventure sports to try.” -
Leap of faith (idiom) – an act of believing in or attempting something whose existence or outcome cannot be proved
Example: “Trying wingsuit flying for the first time requires a real leap of faith.”
describe a place you visited that was very different from your expectations
Examiner’s Advice
To excel in the IELTS Speaking test when discussing adventure sports:
- Use a variety of descriptive language to vividly portray the sport and your feelings about it.
- Demonstrate your ability to discuss both the positive aspects and potential risks of adventure sports.
- Use personal anecdotes or hypothetical scenarios to illustrate your points.
- Practice speaking about different adventure sports to improve fluency and expand your vocabulary.
- Be prepared to discuss related topics such as safety, training, and the psychological aspects of extreme sports.
Remember, the key to a high score is not just about the content of your answers, but also how you express yourself. Aim for fluency, coherence, and a wide range of vocabulary and grammatical structures.
describe a memorable day you had with friends
By following these guidelines and practicing regularly, you’ll be well-prepared to discuss adventure sports and other exciting topics in your IELTS Speaking test. Good luck with your preparation!