As an IELTS instructor with over 20 years of experience, I’ve encountered countless students who initially struggle with seemingly simple questions about their weekend activities. This topic frequently arises in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly in Part 1, where the examiner aims to assess your fluency and vocabulary in a conversational setting.
Understanding the Significance
While “What do you usually do at the weekend?” might seem straightforward, it holds more weight than meets the eye. Examiners use this question to evaluate:
- Fluency and Coherence: Can you answer spontaneously and develop your ideas naturally?
- Lexical Resource: Do you possess a wide range of vocabulary to describe your leisure activities?
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Can you use a variety of grammatical structures correctly?
- Pronunciation: Is your speech clear and easy to understand?
Crafting Your Response
The key to acing this question is to go beyond generic answers like “I usually stay at home and relax.” Here’s a breakdown of how to deliver a compelling response:
1. Variety is Key: Instead of simply listing activities, elaborate on one or two, providing specific details and examples.
Example:
- Generic: “I like to go hiking on the weekends.”
- Specific: “On weekends, I often go for hikes in the nearby mountains. There’s a trail I particularly enjoy that leads to a breathtaking waterfall. It’s a great way to escape the city and get some fresh air.”
2. Incorporate Relevant Vocabulary: Showcase your language skills by using a range of verbs, adjectives, and idioms related to leisure activities.
Examples:
- Instead of “watch TV,” say “catch up on my favorite shows.”
- Instead of “eat out,” say “explore new restaurants” or “indulge in local cuisine.”
3. Utilize Linking Words: Connect your ideas smoothly using linking words and phrases to demonstrate coherence.
Examples:
- “Besides hiking, I’m also fond of…”
- “Additionally, I sometimes…”
- “However, if the weather’s bad, I might…”
4. Be Authentic (and Prepared!): While it’s tempting to invent impressive-sounding hobbies, focus on activities you genuinely enjoy. This will make your response more natural and enthusiastic. However, do prepare beforehand by brainstorming vocabulary and potential talking points related to your actual weekend activities.
Sample Answer
“Well, my weekends usually revolve around spending quality time with loved ones. I often meet up with friends for brunch on Saturday mornings, and we love trying out new cafes in the city. In the evenings, I might go to the cinema with my family or catch a live music performance. If the weather’s pleasant, I enjoy having picnics in the park or going for leisurely bike rides along the riverbank.”
Key Takeaways
Remember, the “What do you usually do at the weekend?” question is an opportunity to demonstrate your English proficiency in a relaxed and conversational manner. By providing specific details, using varied vocabulary, and speaking naturally, you can create a positive impression on the examiner and boost your overall Speaking score. Good luck!