Why Talking About Hobbies Matters in IELTS Speaking
The IELTS Speaking test assesses your ability to communicate effectively in English. It’s not just about vocabulary and grammar; it’s about showing the examiner you can engage in natural, flowing conversation. The “hobbies” question is a great opportunity to do just that. It allows you to:
- Demonstrate fluency: Talking about something you enjoy helps you relax and speak more naturally.
- Showcase vocabulary: You can use specific vocabulary related to your hobby, impressing the examiner with your range.
- Reveal your personality: Hobbies offer insights into who you are beyond your academic or professional life.
Mastering the “Hobbies” Question
Here’s how to effectively answer questions about your hobbies in the IELTS Speaking test:
1. Be Specific and Genuine
Avoid generic responses like “I like listening to music.” Instead, be specific:
- What kind of music? “I’m passionate about classical music, especially Mozart’s piano concertos.”
- How do you enjoy it? “I love attending live orchestra performances.”
Honesty is key. Don’t invent hobbies to impress the examiner.
2. Expand on Your Answers
The examiner wants to see you can develop your ideas. Instead of just stating your hobby, elaborate:
- Why do you enjoy this hobby? “Playing basketball not only keeps me fit, but it also taught me the importance of teamwork and discipline.”
- How often do you engage in it? “I try to go hiking at least twice a month, exploring different trails in the countryside.”
3. Use a Variety of Vocabulary
Show off your vocabulary range by using diverse adjectives, verbs, and idioms:
- Instead of “good”, say “engaging”, “captivating”, or “rewarding”.
- Instead of “I like”, use “I’m passionate about”, “I’m an avid…”, or “I find… incredibly fulfilling”.
4. Be Prepared for Follow-Up Questions
The examiner will likely ask follow-up questions to delve deeper. Be ready to discuss:
- How you got started with the hobby
- What you’ve learned from it
- Any challenges you’ve faced
- Future aspirations related to the hobby
Example IELTS Speaking Test Questions and Answers
Let’s look at some sample questions and answers:
Examiner: What are your hobbies?
Candidate: One of my favorite things to do is photography. I’m particularly drawn to street photography as I love capturing candid moments of everyday life. It allows me to be creative and observant of the world around me.
Examiner: How did you get started with photography?
Candidate: It all began a few years ago when I received a camera as a gift. I started experimenting with different shots and was amazed by how a single photograph could tell a story. I joined a local photography club, which further fueled my passion and helped me improve my skills.
Key Takeaways for IELTS Success
- Be genuine and specific when discussing your hobbies.
- Expand on your answers to demonstrate your fluency and vocabulary.
- Practice speaking about your hobbies beforehand to build confidence.
- Remember, the “hobbies” question is an opportunity to shine! It’s your chance to engage with the examiner and showcase your communication skills in a natural and engaging way.