The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about personal experiences, and describing an outdoor activity you tried for the first time is a popular topic. This theme has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to continue being relevant in future tests. Let’s explore how to effectively answer questions related to this topic and maximize your speaking score.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask you some general questions about outdoor activities. Here are some common questions you might encounter:
- Do you enjoy outdoor activities?
- What kind of outdoor activities are popular in your country?
- How often do you participate in outdoor activities?
Let’s look at a sample answer for the first question:
Examiner: Do you enjoy outdoor activities?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“Absolutely! I’m quite passionate about outdoor activities. There’s something invigorating about being in nature and challenging myself physically. Whether it’s hiking in the mountains or kayaking on a lake, I find these experiences not only enjoyable but also incredibly refreshing. They provide a much-needed break from the daily grind and help me reconnect with nature.”
Describe an exciting activity you experienced can be a great way to showcase your language skills and enthusiasm for outdoor pursuits.
Part 2: Long Turn
In this section, you’ll receive a cue card with a topic and some prompts. Here’s a sample cue card related to our theme:
Describe an outdoor activity you tried for the first time
You should say:
- What the activity was
- When and where you did it
- Who you were with
- And explain how you felt about this new experienceSample answer (Band 6-7):
“I’d like to talk about the first time I went rock climbing. It was about two years ago when I visited a national park with a group of friends. We decided to try rock climbing as it looked challenging and exciting.
We arrived at the climbing site early in the morning. There were five of us, and we hired a professional instructor to guide us. At first, I felt quite nervous as I had never climbed before, and the rock face looked intimidatingly high.
The instructor gave us a safety briefing and taught us the basic techniques. When it was my turn to climb, my heart was racing. As I started ascending, I focused on finding good handholds and footholds. It was physically demanding, but I felt a sense of achievement with each step.
About halfway up, I paused to catch my breath and admire the view. It was breathtaking, and I felt a rush of excitement. Reaching the top was an incredible feeling – a mix of relief, pride, and pure joy.
Overall, I found the experience both challenging and rewarding. It pushed me out of my comfort zone and gave me a new appreciation for nature and my own capabilities. Since then, I’ve been eager to try more outdoor activities and continue challenging myself.”
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d be delighted to share my experience of trying parasailing for the first time. This exhilarating adventure took place last summer during a beach vacation with my family in a coastal resort town.
On a picture-perfect day with clear skies and a gentle breeze, my sister and I decided to take the plunge and give parasailing a shot. We were both equal parts excited and apprehensive as we’d never done anything quite like it before.
After a comprehensive safety briefing from our seasoned instructor, we were strapped into our harnesses and attached to the parachute. As the boat accelerated, we were gradually lifted into the air. The initial moment of lift-off was truly heart-pounding – a mixture of adrenaline and a touch of fear.
However, once we were airborne, any lingering anxiety melted away. The sensation of gliding through the air was absolutely mesmerizing. We were treated to a breathtaking panoramic view of the coastline, with its golden beaches and crystal-clear waters stretching as far as the eye could see. The peacefulness up there was surreal – a stark contrast to the hustle and bustle on the beach below.
This experience was truly transformative. It pushed me beyond my perceived limits and left me with an incredible sense of accomplishment. The sheer thrill of conquering my fears, combined with the awe-inspiring beauty of seeing the world from a new perspective, was profoundly impactful.
In retrospect, parasailing not only provided an unforgettable adventure but also taught me valuable lessons about stepping out of my comfort zone and embracing new challenges. It has ignited a passion for trying more adventurous activities and exploring the great outdoors in novel ways.”
First-time parasailing experience over coastal waters
Follow-up questions:
- Would you try this activity again? Why or why not?
- How do you think outdoor activities benefit people?
Sample answer for question 1 (Band 8-9):
“Absolutely, without a shadow of a doubt. The experience was so exhilarating and eye-opening that I’m eagerly looking forward to my next opportunity to parasail. Not only did it provide an adrenaline rush, but it also offered a unique perspective on the landscape that you simply can’t get any other way. Moreover, I believe that repeating such activities allows you to build on your initial experience, potentially pushing your boundaries even further and discovering new aspects of both the activity and yourself. Each time you participate, you can set new goals or focus on different elements, making it a continually enriching experience.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In this section, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:
Examiner: How do you think outdoor activities contribute to a person’s well-being?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“I believe outdoor activities play a crucial role in promoting both physical and mental well-being. From a physical standpoint, they provide excellent exercise, helping to improve cardiovascular health, build strength, and enhance overall fitness. Many outdoor activities also require balance and coordination, which can be particularly beneficial as we age.
Mentally, outdoor activities offer a much-needed escape from the stresses of daily life. Being in nature has been shown to reduce stress levels, improve mood, and even boost cognitive function. There’s something about the fresh air, natural surroundings, and physical exertion that seems to clear the mind and provide a new perspective on things.
Moreover, many outdoor activities foster social connections, whether it’s hiking with friends, joining a local sports team, or participating in community clean-up events. These social interactions are vital for our emotional well-being and can help combat feelings of isolation or loneliness.
Lastly, outdoor activities often present challenges that, when overcome, can boost self-esteem and build resilience. Whether it’s reaching the summit of a mountain or learning to surf, these achievements can translate into increased confidence in other areas of life.”
Describe an outdoor activity you want to take up is another interesting topic that can help you explore the benefits of outdoor activities further.
Examiner: Do you think there are any downsides to participating in outdoor activities?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“While outdoor activities undoubtedly offer numerous benefits, it would be remiss to overlook potential drawbacks. One significant concern is the risk of injury, particularly in more extreme or adventurous pursuits. Activities like rock climbing, white-water rafting, or even hiking in remote areas can pose serious risks if proper safety precautions aren’t taken or if participants overestimate their abilities.
Another consideration is the environmental impact. As outdoor activities gain popularity, certain natural areas may face increased foot traffic, potentially leading to erosion, habitat disruption, or pollution if visitors aren’t mindful of their impact. This raises important questions about sustainable tourism and how to balance human enjoyment with environmental preservation.
There’s also the aspect of accessibility. Many outdoor activities require specialized equipment or travel to specific locations, which can be prohibitively expensive for some individuals. This financial barrier might exacerbate existing inequalities in terms of who can participate in and benefit from these activities.
Lastly, there’s the potential for outdoor activities to become an obsession for some individuals, leading to a neglect of other important aspects of life such as work, relationships, or other responsibilities. Like any passion, it requires balance and moderation.
However, I believe that with proper awareness, education, and responsible practices, most of these downsides can be mitigated or managed effectively. The key lies in approaching outdoor activities with respect for both personal limits and the natural environment.”
Environmental impact of outdoor activities on natural landscapes
Describe a time when you took a break from your routine can be an excellent way to discuss how outdoor activities can provide a refreshing change from daily life.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases
To enhance your speaking performance, consider using these advanced vocabulary items and phrases:
Exhilarating /ɪɡˈzɪləreɪtɪŋ/ (adj): Causing strong feelings of excitement and happiness
Example: “The experience of paragliding was absolutely exhilarating.”To push one’s boundaries (phrase): To extend the limits of what one can do
Example: “Trying new outdoor activities is a great way to push your boundaries.”Awe-inspiring /ˈɔː ɪnˌspaɪərɪŋ/ (adj): Causing feelings of awe or admiration
Example: “The view from the mountaintop was truly awe-inspiring.”To step out of one’s comfort zone (phrase): To do something that you find difficult or uncomfortable
Example: “Rock climbing forced me to step out of my comfort zone.”Invigorating /ɪnˈvɪɡəreɪtɪŋ/ (adj): Making you feel energetic and healthy
Example: “The crisp mountain air was incredibly invigorating.”
Describe a hobby that you would like to try is another topic where you can utilize this vocabulary effectively.
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test, focus on the following:
Fluency and Coherence: Practice speaking at length about various topics. Use linking words and phrases to connect your ideas smoothly.
Lexical Resource: Expand your vocabulary, especially with words and phrases related to outdoor activities and personal experiences. Use idiomatic expressions naturally.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Use a mix of simple and complex sentence structures. Pay attention to verb tenses, particularly when describing past experiences.
Pronunciation: Work on clear articulation and natural intonation. Pay attention to word stress and sentence rhythm.
Development of Ideas: Provide detailed responses with examples and explanations. Don’t just list facts; elaborate on your thoughts and feelings.
Remember, regular practice is key to improving your speaking skills. Try to describe an activity you do in your free time to a friend or language partner to get more comfortable with expressing yourself fluently in English.
By following these guidelines and incorporating the sample answers and vocabulary provided, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle questions about outdoor activities in your IELTS Speaking test. Good luck with your preparation!