The IELTS Speaking test can be nerve-wracking, especially when faced with unexpected questions. One common question that often throws candidates off is “What are your hobbies and interests?”. While seemingly simple, this question is an opportunity to demonstrate your language skills and personality. This article provides a comprehensive guide to help you confidently tackle this question and excel in your IELTS Speaking test.
Why does this question matter?
Examiners ask about your hobbies and interests for several reasons:
- To assess fluency and vocabulary: Talking about familiar topics allows you to relax and demonstrate your natural speaking ability.
- To gauge your ability to elaborate and explain: Describing your hobbies requires you to go beyond one-word answers and provide details.
- To gain insight into your personality: Your interests reveal your passions and what makes you unique, adding depth to your responses.
How to Approach “Hobbies and Interests”
1. Be Genuine and Enthusiastic:
Don’t invent hobbies to impress the examiner. Speak passionately about activities you genuinely enjoy. Your enthusiasm will shine through and make your responses more engaging.
2. Go Beyond Listing:
Instead of simply naming hobbies, elaborate on what you do, why you enjoy them, and how they benefit you. For example:
- Instead of: “I like reading.”
- Say: “I’m an avid reader, particularly drawn to historical fiction. I love immersing myself in different periods and learning about the past.”
3. Use a Variety of Vocabulary:
Showcase your language skills by incorporating a range of adjectives, adverbs, and idioms to describe your hobbies.
- Instead of: “I like playing basketball.”
- Say: “I’m a huge basketball enthusiast. I find it incredibly exhilarating and a great way to de-stress.”
4. Connect to Other Areas of Your Life:
Whenever possible, link your hobbies to your skills, experiences, or future goals. This demonstrates a deeper level of thought and connection.
- Example: “My passion for photography has not only taught me technical skills but also enhanced my ability to observe and appreciate the beauty in everyday life.”
Examples from Real IELTS Speaking Tests
Here are a few examples of how candidates have successfully answered questions about their hobbies and interests:
Examiner: “What do you enjoy doing in your free time?”
Candidate: “Well, I’m really into photography. I love capturing special moments and experimenting with different angles and lighting. It’s a great way for me to relax and express my creativity.”
Examiner: “Do you have any hobbies that you are particularly passionate about?”
Candidate: “Absolutely! I’m a dedicated volunteer at a local animal shelter. I’ve always loved animals, and being able to care for them and find them loving homes is incredibly rewarding.”
Tips for Success
- Practice Regularly: Talk about your hobbies and interests in English as often as possible.
- Prepare Notes but Don’t Memorize: Jot down key points and vocabulary related to your hobbies, but speak naturally during the test.
- Be Specific and Provide Examples: Instead of saying you enjoy traveling, mention a memorable trip or a destination you’d love to visit.
- Use Transition Words: Words like “moreover,” “in addition,” and “furthermore” can help you connect your ideas and speak more fluently.
Conclusion
Remember, the “hobbies and interests” question is an opportunity to shine. By being genuine, detailed, and using a rich vocabulary, you can demonstrate your English proficiency and leave a positive impression on the examiner. Good luck with your IELTS preparation!