Getting fresh air and staying active outdoors are common topics in IELTS Speaking tests. Like describe a sport or exercise you enjoy, this topic frequently appears in all parts of the speaking test. Let’s explore how to answer questions about outdoor activities effectively.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview Questions
Common questions examiners may ask:
- Do you often do outdoor activities?
- What kind of outdoor activities do you enjoy?
- How often do you engage in outdoor activities?
- Who do you usually do outdoor activities with?
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I absolutely love spending time outdoors, particularly hiking. I try to go hiking at least twice a month as it helps me recharge my batteries and clear my mind. I usually go with a small group of friends, which makes it both a social activity and a way to stay fit.”
People hiking on a scenic mountain trail enjoying nature and fresh air
Part 2: Cue Card
Task:
Describe an outdoor activity that helps you relax
You should say:
- What the activity is
- Where you do it
- Who you do it with
- And explain why it helps you relax
Similar to describe a favorite outdoor activity you enjoy with family, here’s how to structure your response:
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to talk about gardening, which has become my go-to activity for relaxation. I took up this hobby during the pandemic, and it has since become an integral part of my daily routine.
I have a modest garden in my backyard where I grow various herbs and vegetables. What particularly appeals to me about gardening is that it allows me to connect with nature in a very hands-on way. I usually spend time in my garden either early in the morning or late afternoon when the temperature is most pleasant.
While I often garden alone, I sometimes share this passion with my neighbor, who is an experienced horticulturist. We often exchange tips and tricks about plant care and growing techniques.
The reason gardening helps me relax is multifaceted. Firstly, it provides a perfect escape from digital devices and work-related stress. Secondly, there’s something inherently therapeutic about nurturing plants and watching them grow. The physical activity involved, whether it’s digging, weeding, or pruning, helps release endorphins, while the sense of accomplishment when harvesting my own produce is incredibly rewarding.”
Person gardening in backyard showing relaxation through outdoor activity
Part 3: Discussion Questions
Similar to discussions about describe a park you enjoy visiting for relaxation, here are some typical follow-up questions:
Q: Why do you think some people prefer indoor activities to outdoor ones?
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“There are several compelling reasons why people might favor indoor activities. Primarily, the unpredictability of weather can be a deterrent. Additionally, our increasingly digital lifestyle has made indoor activities more appealing and convenient. However, I believe we need to strike a balance between indoor and outdoor activities for optimal well-being.”
Q: What are the benefits of outdoor activities for mental health?
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“Outdoor activities offer numerous psychological benefits. They facilitate natural stress reduction through exposure to nature and fresh air. Moreover, they often involve physical exertion, which triggers the release of endorphins. The change of environment also provides a mental reset, helping people gain perspective on their daily challenges.”
Key Vocabulary and Expressions
- Therapeutic /ˌθerəˈpjuːtɪk/ (adj): Having a positive effect on body or mind
- Multifaceted /ˌmʌltiˈfæsɪtɪd/ (adj): Having many different aspects or features
- Inherently /ɪnˈhɪrəntli/ (adv): In a permanent, essential or characteristic way
- Strike a balance (idiom): To find a compromise between two extremes
- Recharge one’s batteries (idiom): To rest and relax to restore energy
Examiner’s Tips:
- Develop your answers using personal experiences
- Use a variety of descriptive vocabulary
- Include specific examples to support your points
- Practice speaking about different outdoor activities to build confidence
- Structure your responses clearly with appropriate linking words
Remember, when describing outdoor activities, like describe a favorite place in your country to relax, focus on personal experiences and emotional connections to achieve a higher band score.
