The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about hobbies and interests, making it crucial for test-takers to be prepared to discuss various leisure activities. One common topic that frequently appears is describing an interesting hobby you would like to try. This article will guide you through answering such questions effectively, providing sample responses and valuable tips to help you achieve a high score in your IELTS Speaking test.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask you some general questions about hobbies and interests. Here are a few examples of questions you might encounter:
- Do you have any hobbies?
- What do you like to do in your free time?
- Are there any new hobbies you’d like to try?
Let’s focus on the third question and provide a sample answer:
Examiner: Are there any new hobbies you’d like to try?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“Yes, actually, I’ve been quite interested in trying out rock climbing recently. It seems like an exhilarating sport that not only provides a great workout but also allows you to challenge yourself mentally and physically. I’ve seen some amazing photos of climbers scaling impressive cliffs, and I think it would be incredibly rewarding to reach the top of a difficult route. Plus, I’ve heard it’s a great way to build strength and improve flexibility, which are always beneficial for overall health.”
Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)
In this section, you’ll be given a cue card with a topic and some bullet points. You’ll have one minute to prepare, and then you’ll need to speak for 1-2 minutes on the topic. Here’s a sample cue card related to our theme:
Describe an interesting hobby you would like to try
You should say:
- What the hobby is
- How you learned about it
- Why you find it interesting
- Why you haven’t tried it yet
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to talk about an intriguing hobby I’ve been eager to try for quite some time now – astrophotography. This fascinating pursuit involves capturing images of celestial objects like stars, planets, and galaxies using specialized equipment and techniques.
I first learned about astrophotography through a captivating documentary on space exploration. The breathtaking images of distant nebulae and star clusters left an indelible impression on me, and I was immediately drawn to the idea of capturing such awe-inspiring sights myself.
What makes astrophotography particularly interesting to me is the unique blend of art and science it represents. It requires not only a keen eye for composition and aesthetics but also a solid understanding of astronomy, optics, and photography techniques. The thought of spending nights under the stars, patiently waiting for the perfect moment to capture the beauty of the cosmos, is incredibly appealing to me.
Moreover, I find the technical challenges involved in astrophotography highly stimulating. The need to understand and work with specialized equipment like telescopes, tracking mounts, and astrophotography cameras adds an extra layer of complexity that I find intellectually engaging.
Despite my enthusiasm, I haven’t been able to try astrophotography yet primarily due to the significant initial investment required for quality equipment. Additionally, living in an urban area with considerable light pollution poses some logistical challenges. However, I’m actively saving up and researching more about the hobby, hoping to take the plunge in the near future and capture my first stunning image of the night sky.”
Examiner’s follow-up questions:
- Do you think this hobby might be difficult to learn?
- How do you think this hobby might benefit you personally?
Sample answers (Band 8-9):
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“Yes, I believe astrophotography could be quite challenging to master. It requires a steep learning curve in terms of understanding the technical aspects of both astronomy and photography. You need to familiarize yourself with complex equipment, learn about celestial movements, and develop skills in image processing. However, I think the difficulty is part of its appeal. Overcoming these challenges and producing stunning images would be incredibly rewarding.”
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“I think this hobby could benefit me in several ways. Firstly, it would expand my knowledge of astronomy and physics, satisfying my curiosity about the universe. Secondly, it would enhance my patience and perseverance, as astrophotography often requires long hours of setup and waiting for the right conditions. Additionally, it would improve my technical skills in photography and image processing. Lastly, I believe the awe-inspiring nature of astrophotography could provide a sense of perspective and help reduce stress by reminding me of the vastness and beauty of the cosmos.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In this section, the examiner will ask you more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some sample questions and answers:
Examiner: Why do you think people develop new hobbies?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“People develop new hobbies for a variety of reasons. Firstly, hobbies can serve as an outlet for creativity and self-expression, allowing individuals to explore their passions and interests outside of work or academic pursuits. Additionally, taking up a new hobby can be a way to challenge oneself and foster personal growth. It provides opportunities to learn new skills, expand knowledge, and push beyond one’s comfort zone.
Moreover, hobbies often play a crucial role in stress relief and mental health. Engaging in enjoyable activities can help reduce anxiety, improve mood, and provide a sense of accomplishment. In our increasingly fast-paced and digital world, hobbies can offer a much-needed respite and a chance to disconnect from daily pressures.
Furthermore, hobbies can be a great way to socialize and build communities. Many people find like-minded individuals through shared interests, leading to new friendships and a sense of belonging. This social aspect can be particularly valuable in combating feelings of isolation or loneliness.
Lastly, some people develop new hobbies as a means of self-improvement or to enhance their professional skills. For instance, someone might take up photography as a hobby, which could later benefit their career in marketing or design. In this way, hobbies can serve as a bridge between personal interests and professional development.”
Examiner: Do you think the popularity of certain hobbies changes over time? Why?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“Absolutely, I believe the popularity of hobbies does fluctuate over time, and this can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, technological advancements play a significant role in shaping hobby trends. For instance, the rise of digital photography has made it more accessible to a wider audience, while traditional film photography has become more of a niche hobby. Similarly, the advent of describe an instrument you use the most in music production has led to a surge in home recording as a hobby.
Societal changes and cultural shifts also influence hobby popularity. As awareness of environmental issues grows, we’ve seen an increase in eco-friendly hobbies like upcycling, gardening, and sustainable crafting. Additionally, the recent global pandemic has sparked interest in home-based hobbies such as baking, indoor plant care, and online gaming.
Economic factors can also impact hobby trends. During economic downturns, people might gravitate towards more affordable hobbies or those that could potentially generate income, such as crafting or describe a food you want to learn how to cook.
Moreover, social media and influencer culture have the power to rapidly popularize certain hobbies. A viral video or a celebrity endorsement can suddenly make a previously obscure hobby trendy and desirable.
Lastly, generational differences play a role in hobby popularity. Each generation tends to have its own set of preferred leisure activities, often influenced by the technological and cultural environment they grew up in. As younger generations come of age, they bring with them new interests and ways of spending free time, while some traditional hobbies may wane in popularity.”
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
To achieve a high score in your IELTS Speaking test, it’s crucial to use a wide range of vocabulary and complex sentence structures. Here are some key words and phrases that can help elevate your responses:
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Intriguing /ɪnˈtriːɡɪŋ/ (adjective): Very interesting or fascinating.
Example: “Astrophotography is an intriguing hobby that combines science and art.” -
Captivating /ˈkæptɪveɪtɪŋ/ (adjective): Capable of attracting and holding interest; charming.
Example: “The captivating images of distant galaxies inspired me to learn more about astrophotography.” -
Blend /blend/ (noun): A mixture of different things or qualities.
Example: “This hobby represents a unique blend of technical skill and creative vision.” -
Stimulating /ˈstɪmjuleɪtɪŋ/ (adjective): Encouraging or arousing interest or enthusiasm.
Example: “I find the technical challenges of astrophotography highly stimulating.” -
Take the plunge (idiom): To commit oneself to a course of action.
Example: “I’m saving up to take the plunge and invest in astrophotography equipment.” -
Steep learning curve (phrase): A difficult and rapid learning process.
Example: “Mastering astrophotography involves a steep learning curve, but I’m up for the challenge.” -
Foster /ˈfɒstə(r)/ (verb): To encourage the development of something.
Example: “Engaging in new hobbies can foster personal growth and creativity.” -
Respite /ˈrespaɪt/ (noun): A short period of rest or relief from something difficult.
Example: “Hobbies offer a much-needed respite from the stresses of daily life.”
Examiner’s Advice
To excel in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when describing an interesting hobby:
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Prepare diverse topics: Be ready to discuss various hobbies, not just popular ones. This demonstrates a broad knowledge base.
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Use personal anecdotes: Incorporate personal experiences or reasons for your interest in the hobby. This adds authenticity to your responses.
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Employ a range of tenses: When describing a hobby you’d like to try, use a mix of present and future tenses to discuss your current interest and future plans.
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Showcase vocabulary: Utilize topic-specific vocabulary related to the hobby, as well as general advanced vocabulary to elevate your responses.
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Develop your answers: Don’t just give short, simple responses. Elaborate on your points with examples and explanations.
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Practice fluency: Describe a situation when you had to act fast in your responses. Regular practice can help you speak more smoothly and confidently.
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Listen carefully: Pay close attention to the examiner’s questions, especially in Part 3, as they become more abstract and challenging.
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Stay on topic: While it’s good to elaborate, ensure your answers remain relevant to the question asked.
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Show enthusiasm: Demonstrate genuine interest in the topic through your tone and the details you provide.
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Reflect on broader implications: In Part 3, try to connect the hobby to wider societal trends or personal development, showing depth of thought.
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 complex ideas clearly are all crucial factors in achieving a high score.