How to Excel at IELTS Speaking: Describing Your Dream Adventure

Looking to achieve a high score in IELTS Speaking? Today, we’ll explore how to effectively describe an adventure you would like to experience – a topic that frequently appears in IELTS Speaking tests.

IELTS Speaking examiner and candidate having professional interactionIELTS Speaking examiner and candidate having professional interaction

Part 1: Introduction and Interview Questions

Common questions you may encounter:

  • Do you like adventures? Why/Why not?
  • What kind of adventures appeal to you?
  • Have you ever been on an adventure before?

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):

“I’m absolutely passionate about adventures because they push me out of my comfort zone. I’m particularly drawn to outdoor expeditions that combine physical challenges with cultural experiences. Last summer, I went on a trek through the Himalayas, which was both physically demanding and spiritually enlightening.”

Similar to describe a person who enjoys taking risks, this topic requires you to express your enthusiasm clearly and authentically.

Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)

Task Card:

Describe an adventure you would like to experience
You should say:

  • What kind of adventure it would be
  • Where you would go
  • Who you would go with
  • And explain why you would like to experience this adventure

Person planning adventure journey with maps and equipmentPerson planning adventure journey with maps and equipment

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):

“I would love to embark on an expedition to Antarctica, which has been my lifelong dream. This extraordinary adventure would involve sailing across the Drake Passage and exploring the pristine wilderness of the world’s most remote continent.

I plan to join a scientific research expedition with a team of marine biologists and climate scientists. The journey would involve documenting marine life, studying ice formations, and possibly witnessing the aurora australis.

Much like describe a journey you would like to take, this adventure represents both a physical journey and a profound personal experience.

The expedition would be intellectually stimulating as well as physically challenging. I’m particularly intrigued by the opportunity to contribute to climate change research while experiencing the raw beauty of this untouched landscape.”

Sample Answer (Band 6-7):

“I want to go on an adventure to Antarctica. It’s very cold there and not many people visit. I would go with some scientists to study the animals and ice. I think it would be exciting because it’s different from normal holidays. I could see penguins and maybe some whales too.”

Part 3: Discussion Questions

Q: Why do you think some people prefer adventurous activities while others don’t?

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):

“I believe it largely stems from a combination of personality traits and early life experiences. Those who are naturally inclined toward novelty-seeking behavior often find fulfillment in adventurous activities, while others may prioritize security and predictability. Just as describe a person who is passionate about fitness, adventure enthusiasts often share certain characteristic traits.”

Key Vocabulary and Expressions

  • Venture into the unknown (phrase) – /ˈventʃə ˈɪntə ðə ʌnˈnəʊn/ – to go somewhere new and unexplored
  • Push boundaries (phrase) – /pʊʃ ˈbaʊndəriz/ – to extend limits of what is possible
  • Adrenaline rush (noun) – /əˈdrenəlɪn rʌʃ/ – excitement from doing something dangerous
  • Off the beaten track (idiom) – /ɒf ðə ˈbiːtn træk/ – away from familiar routes

Examiner’s Tips

  • Use specific examples to support your points
  • Demonstrate range of vocabulary related to adventure and exploration
  • Show genuine enthusiasm through voice modulation
  • Structure your answers logically with clear progression
  • Include personal experiences or hypothetical scenarios to enrich your response

For more inspiration, you might want to check out describe a risk you took that had a positive outcome.