When discussing hobbies in IELTS Speaking, particularly describing a friend’s interesting hobby, it’s crucial to provide detailed and well-structured responses. This topic frequently appears in IELTS Speaking tests and shares similarities with describe a friend who shares similar interests with you.
IELTS examiner interviewing candidate about friend hobby
Part 1: Introduction and Interview Questions
Common questions about hobbies:
- What kinds of hobbies are popular in your country?
- Do you share any hobbies with your friends?
- How do people usually discover new hobbies?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“In my country, digital photography has become increasingly popular, especially among young professionals. I actually share this passion with several friends, and we often organize photography excursions together. People typically discover new hobbies through social media exposure and peer influence.”
Part 2: Cue Card
Describe an interesting hobby of a friend
You should say:
- Who this friend is
- What the hobby is
- How long they have had this hobby
- And explain why you think it is interesting
Sample Answer (Band 6-7):
“I’d like to talk about my friend Tom, who has an interesting hobby of urban exploration. He started this hobby about three years ago. He explores abandoned buildings and documents their history through photographs. I find it fascinating because it combines photography, history, and adventure.”
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to tell you about my friend Sarah, who has developed an extraordinary passion for urban exploration. She embarked on this fascinating journey approximately three years ago, and since then, she has meticulously documented dozens of abandoned historical buildings. What makes her hobby particularly captivating is how she seamlessly blends photography with historical research, creating compelling narratives about these forgotten places. She’s remarkably dedicated to preserving local heritage through her work, often collaborating with historical societies to share her findings.”
For those interested in unique hobbies, this relates well to describe an unusual hobby you would like to take up.
Part 3: Discussion Questions
Q: How do hobbies differ between generations?
A (Band 8-9): “There’s a striking contrast between generational preferences in hobbies. While older generations tend to gravitate towards traditional pastimes like gardening or crafting, younger people are increasingly drawn to digital-based hobbies. This shift reflects the technological evolution of our society and has profound implications for how different age groups interact and spend their leisure time.”
Similar to describe a hobby you used to have as a child, many people’s interests evolve over time.
Key Vocabulary and Expressions
- Meticulously document (adv + v): to record something with great attention to detail
- Seamlessly blend (adv + v): to combine different elements smoothly
- Profound implications (adj + n): deep or significant consequences
- Embark on a journey (phrase): to begin an experience or activity
- Gravitate towards (phrasal verb): to be attracted to something naturally
Examiner’s Tips
- Focus on using varied vocabulary and complex structures
- Provide specific examples to support your points
- Maintain a natural speaking pace
- Use linking words to connect ideas smoothly
- Show genuine interest in the topic through tone and enthusiasm
When developing your response, consider how it connects to describe a friend who is good at giving advice, as personal relationships often intertwine with hobbies and interests.
