As an IELTS instructor with over two decades of experience, I often encounter students who feel nervous about the IELTS Speaking test. One frequently asked-about topic is “weekend activities.” While seemingly simple, this question offers a fantastic opportunity to demonstrate your English fluency and vocabulary. Let’s delve into how to effectively tackle this topic and impress your examiner.
Understanding the Question’s Purpose
The examiner isn’t simply curious about your weekend schedule. They are evaluating your ability to:
- Use present tenses accurately: You’ll likely use the present simple to discuss routines and the present continuous for activities happening right now.
- Employ a variety of vocabulary: Go beyond basic terms like “watch TV.” Showcase your lexical range with words like “relax,” “socialize,” “pursue hobbies,” or “run errands.”
- Structure your response coherently: Organize your thoughts logically using linking words like “usually,” “sometimes,” “on Saturdays,” “in the evenings,” etc.
- Elaborate and provide details: Don’t just list activities. Explain why you enjoy them or give examples.
Crafting Your Response
1. Brainstorming Ideas:
Think about your typical weekend activities. Do you…
- Spend time with family or friends?
- Engage in hobbies like reading, cooking, or playing sports?
- Go out for meals, movies, or cultural events?
- Relax at home, perhaps watching movies or reading?
- Catch up on chores or errands?
2. Structuring Your Answer:
Use a clear structure to guide the examiner through your response. Here’s a sample framework:
- Introduction: Briefly state your general approach to weekends.
- “Well, my weekends are usually a time for me to unwind and recharge after a busy week.”
- Main Body: Describe 2-3 activities, providing details and examples.
- “On Saturdays, I often meet up with friends for brunch. We love trying new cafes around the city. In the evenings, I enjoy relaxing at home with a good book.”
- “Sundays are usually more relaxed. I might go for a long walk in the park, or visit my parents for a family dinner.”
- Conclusion: Offer a concluding sentence to wrap up your response.
- “Overall, I cherish my weekends as they provide a much-needed break from my studies/work.”
3. Using Rich Vocabulary:
Here are some alternatives to common vocabulary:
| Instead of… | Use… |
|---|---|
| Watch TV | Catch up on my favorite shows, stream a movie, watch a documentary |
| Go out | Socialize, meet friends, dine out, explore the city |
| Relax | Unwind, de-stress, recharge my batteries |
| Do chores | Run errands, tidy up, catch up on housework |
Example Answer
“My weekends are generally a mix of relaxation and socializing. On Saturdays, I love meeting up with friends. We might go for brunch, catch a movie, or just wander around the city center. In the evenings, I prefer something more low-key, like cooking a nice meal at home or reading a good book. Sundays are usually more family-oriented. I often visit my parents for Sunday lunch, which is always a treat. Of course, sometimes life gets in the way, and I need to catch up on chores or errands. But overall, I try to make the most of my weekends and find a good balance between fun and relaxation.”
Top Tips for Success
- Practice makes perfect: Rehearse answering this question and other common IELTS Speaking topics.
- Record yourself: Listen back to identify areas for improvement in fluency and pronunciation.
- Don’t memorize: Focus on understanding the structure and using flexible vocabulary.
- Be enthusiastic: Speak naturally and show genuine interest in what you’re saying.
By following these tips and practicing consistently, you can confidently tackle the “What do you usually do at the weekend?” question and boost your IELTS Speaking score. Remember, the key is to relax, be yourself, and demonstrate your English communication skills. Good luck!