As an experienced IELTS instructor, I often encounter students who feel anxious about the IELTS Speaking test, particularly the open-ended questions in Part 1 like “What are some of the things you enjoy doing when you travel?”. This seemingly simple question can throw off many test-takers. However, with the right approach and practice, you can turn this question into an opportunity to showcase your English fluency and score highly.
Understanding the Question’s Intent
The examiner isn’t just asking for a list of activities. They are interested in:
- Your vocabulary: Can you use a range of travel-related vocabulary accurately and naturally?
- Your fluency and coherence: Can you speak smoothly and link your ideas logically?
- Your grammar: Can you use a variety of grammatical structures correctly?
- Your pronunciation: Can you be easily understood?
Crafting Your Response
Here’s a breakdown of how to structure a compelling answer:
1. Start with a Direct and Concise Answer
Don’t overthink it. Begin by directly addressing the question with a clear statement of your travel preferences.
Examples:
- Direct: “When I travel, I really enjoy…”
- Enthusiastic: “One of my absolute favorite things to do while traveling is…”
- Specific: “As a history enthusiast, I always try to…”
2. Elaborate with Reasons and Examples
Provide specific reasons why you enjoy those activities, making your response personal and engaging.
Examples:
- Instead of: “I like visiting historical sites.”
- Say: “I love immersing myself in history by visiting ancient ruins or historical landmarks. It’s fascinating to experience firsthand the stories I’ve only read about.”
3. Use Vivid Language and Sensory Details
Bring your experiences to life by incorporating descriptive language that appeals to the senses.
Examples:
- Instead of: “I like trying new food.”
- Say: “I adore exploring local cuisines. There’s nothing quite like tasting the vibrant flavors of authentic dishes and experiencing the culinary traditions of a new place.”
4. Demonstrate a Range of Vocabulary
Instead of repeating common words, try to use synonyms and more sophisticated vocabulary.
Examples:
- Instead of: “seeing new things”
- Use: “exploring new destinations,” “discovering hidden gems,” “immersing myself in different cultures”
5. Maintain Coherence and Fluency
Use discourse markers to connect your ideas smoothly and naturally.
Examples:
- Adding information: “Moreover,” “Furthermore,” “In addition to that”
- Contrasting: “On the other hand,” “However,” “While I enjoy… I also appreciate…”
- Providing Examples: “For instance,” “For example,” “To illustrate”
Woman Trying Local Street Food
Sample Answer
“When I travel, I’m absolutely captivated by the prospect of exploring new cultures. I find it incredibly enriching to immerse myself in different customs and traditions, whether it’s trying local delicacies at a bustling market or engaging with friendly locals to learn about their way of life. For instance, on a recent trip to Vietnam, I had the opportunity to participate in a traditional tea ceremony. It was a truly unforgettable experience that allowed me to connect with the local culture on a deeper level.”
Additional Tips
- Be authentic: Speak about your genuine interests to sound more natural.
- Practice makes perfect: Rehearse answering common IELTS Speaking questions to build fluency.
- Record yourself: Listening to your practice sessions can help you identify areas for improvement.
By following these tips and practicing regularly, you can confidently answer the question “What are some of the things you enjoy doing when you travel?” and leave a positive impression on the examiner. Remember, the key is to be yourself, speak clearly, and showcase your language skills.