The topic of describing an outdoor activity you enjoy doing in your free time is a popular one in IELTS Speaking tests. It allows examiners to assess your ability to express personal preferences, describe experiences, and use a range of vocabulary related to leisure activities. This topic has appeared frequently in past tests and is likely to remain relevant in future examinations.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask you some general questions about outdoor activities. Here’s an example question with a suggested answer:
Question: Do you prefer indoor or outdoor activities?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“I would say I have a strong preference for outdoor activities. There’s something invigorating about being in nature and breathing in fresh air. While I enjoy indoor activities too, I find that spending time outdoors rejuvenates me both physically and mentally. It’s a great way to escape the confines of everyday life and immerse myself in natural surroundings.”
Outdoor activities in nature with fresh air
Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)
Here’s a sample cue card related to the topic:
Describe An Outdoor Activity That You Enjoy Doing In Your Free Time
You should say:
- What the activity is
- When and where you do it
- Who you do it with
- And explain why you enjoy this activity
Sample answer (Band 6-7):
“One outdoor activity I really enjoy in my free time is hiking. I try to go hiking at least once a month, usually on weekends when I have more free time. There are several hiking trails near my city, but my favorite one is in the nearby national park, about an hour’s drive from where I live.
I usually go hiking with a small group of friends who share the same interest. We’ve been hiking together for a few years now, and it’s become a sort of tradition for us.
I enjoy hiking for several reasons. Firstly, it’s a great way to stay active and improve my fitness. The physical challenge of climbing hills and navigating rough terrain is both demanding and rewarding. Secondly, hiking allows me to appreciate nature and enjoy beautiful scenery. There’s something peaceful about being surrounded by trees, hearing birds chirp, and seeing stunning views from the top of a hill.
Moreover, hiking is a great opportunity to spend quality time with friends. We chat, share stories, and support each other along the trail. It’s also a chance to disconnect from technology and the stresses of daily life, which I find very refreshing.
In conclusion, hiking is an activity that benefits me both physically and mentally, and I always look forward to my next hiking adventure.”
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“One outdoor activity that I’m particularly passionate about is rock climbing. I try to indulge in this exhilarating sport at least twice a month, typically on weekends when I can dedicate a full day to the experience. While there are several indoor climbing gyms in my city, I prefer to challenge myself on natural rock faces in the nearby mountain range, about a two-hour drive from my residence.
I usually embark on these climbing expeditions with a close-knit group of fellow enthusiasts. We’ve been scaling heights together for the better part of a decade, and it’s evolved into an integral part of our shared experiences and friendship.
The reasons for my profound enjoyment of rock climbing are multifaceted. Primarily, it serves as an unparalleled full-body workout, enhancing my strength, flexibility, and overall fitness. The physical and mental challenges posed by each unique climbing route are both daunting and immensely satisfying to overcome.
Furthermore, rock climbing offers an intimate connection with nature that few other activities can match. There’s an indescribable sense of awe that comes from being suspended high above the ground, feeling the texture of the rock beneath your fingers, and taking in breathtaking panoramic views that can only be accessed through climbing.
Additionally, the sport fosters a deep sense of camaraderie and trust among climbers. The necessity of relying on your climbing partner for safety creates a unique bond, and the shared experiences of conquering difficult routes or facing fears together are incredibly bonding.
Rock climbing also serves as a powerful metaphor for life’s challenges. It teaches valuable lessons about perseverance, problem-solving, and the importance of taking calculated risks. The mental focus required to plan each move and maintain composure in potentially precarious situations has significantly enhanced my ability to stay calm under pressure in other aspects of life.
In conclusion, rock climbing is not just a hobby for me; it’s a transformative experience that continually pushes me to grow both physically and mentally. The combination of physical exertion, natural beauty, social connection, and personal growth makes each climbing session an adventure I eagerly anticipate.”
Describe an activity you enjoy doing in your free time can be challenging, but with practice, you can improve your response significantly.
Rock climbing as an outdoor adventure
Follow-up questions:
- How has this activity impacted your life?
Sample answer (Band 6-7):
“This activity has had a positive impact on my life. It has improved my fitness and helped me make new friends. I also feel more confident and relaxed in my daily life because of it.”
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“The impact of this activity on my life has been profound and far-reaching. It has not only significantly enhanced my physical fitness and mental resilience but has also expanded my social circle with like-minded individuals who share my passion. Moreover, the skills I’ve developed through this activity, such as problem-solving, risk assessment, and maintaining composure under pressure, have translated seamlessly into my professional and personal life, making me more adept at handling challenges in various contexts.”
- Do you think more people should try this activity?
Sample answer (Band 6-7):
“Yes, I think more people should try this activity. It’s good for health and helps people appreciate nature. However, it’s important to start slowly and be safe.”
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I wholeheartedly believe that more people could benefit from engaging in this activity. It offers a unique combination of physical exercise, mental stimulation, and connection with nature that is increasingly rare in our modern, sedentary lifestyles. However, I would emphasize the importance of approaching it with proper preparation and respect for safety protocols. With the right guidance and gradual progression, this activity can be immensely rewarding and potentially life-changing for many individuals, promoting not only physical health but also mental well-being and environmental awareness.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Question: How do you think outdoor activities contribute to a person’s well-being?
Sample answer (Band 6-7):
“Outdoor activities are very good for people’s health. They help people stay fit and reduce stress. Being in nature can also improve mood and make people feel happier. Outdoor activities often involve socializing, which is good for mental health too.”
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“Outdoor activities play a crucial role in promoting holistic well-being. Physically, they provide a diverse range of exercise opportunities that can improve cardiovascular health, strengthen muscles, and enhance overall fitness. The varied terrain and unpredictable nature of outdoor environments also challenge our proprioception and balance, contributing to better body awareness and coordination.
Mentally, outdoor activities offer a powerful antidote to the stresses of modern life. Exposure to natural settings has been scientifically proven to reduce cortisol levels, lower blood pressure, and alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression. The sensory experience of being in nature – the fresh air, natural sounds, and visual scenery – can induce a state of mindfulness, helping individuals disconnect from digital distractions and reconnect with the present moment.
Moreover, many outdoor activities foster social connections, whether it’s team sports, group hikes, or community gardening projects. These social interactions are vital for emotional well-being and can combat feelings of isolation that are increasingly common in our digital age.
Lastly, engaging with the outdoors often instills a greater appreciation for the environment, which can lead to more eco-conscious behaviors and a sense of stewardship for the natural world. This connection to something larger than oneself can provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment, further contributing to overall well-being.”
Describe a person who inspires you to be more active can be a great way to expand on this topic and showcase your language skills.
Outdoor activities contributing to well-being
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
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Invigorating /ɪnˈvɪɡəreɪtɪŋ/ (adjective): Making one feel strong, healthy, and full of energy.
Example: “The invigorating mountain air made me feel refreshed and energized.” -
Rejuvenate /rɪˈdʒuːvəneɪt/ (verb): To give new energy or vigor to; revitalize.
Example: “A weekend camping trip can rejuvenate both body and mind.” -
Immerse oneself /ɪˈmɜːs wʌnˈself/ (phrasal verb): To involve oneself deeply in a particular activity or interest.
Example: “I love to immerse myself in nature when I go hiking.” -
Exhilarating /ɪɡˈzɪləreɪtɪŋ/ (adjective): Making one feel very happy, animated, or elated.
Example: “The exhilarating feeling of reaching the mountain summit is unparalleled.” -
Profound /prəˈfaʊnd/ (adjective): Very great or intense.
Example: “Rock climbing has had a profound impact on my physical and mental well-being.” -
Holistic /həˈlɪstɪk/ (adjective): Characterized by the belief that the parts of something are intimately interconnected and explicable only by reference to the whole.
Example: “Outdoor activities contribute to holistic well-being, benefiting both body and mind.”
Using these words and phrases correctly can significantly enhance the quality of your responses in the IELTS Speaking test.
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when describing outdoor activities:
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Expand your vocabulary: Learn and use a wide range of words related to outdoor activities, nature, and personal experiences.
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Practice fluency: Aim to speak smoothly without long pauses. Regular practice can help improve your fluency.
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Use idiomatic expressions: Incorporate relevant idioms and colloquial phrases naturally in your responses.
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Provide specific examples: When describing your experiences, give detailed examples to support your points.
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Show enthusiasm: Demonstrate genuine interest in the topic through your tone and word choice.
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Structure your answers: Organize your thoughts logically, especially in Part 2, to ensure a coherent and comprehensive response.
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Engage with the examiner: In Part 3, aim to have a natural conversation rather than just answering questions.
Remember, Describe a time when you volunteered could be another interesting topic to practice, as it might involve outdoor activities as well.
By following these tips and continuously practicing, you can improve your performance in the IELTS Speaking test and increase your chances of achieving a high score.
