As an IELTS instructor with over 20 years of experience, I’ve encountered this common IELTS Speaking question countless times: “What is your favorite leisure activity?”. While seemingly straightforward, many candidates stumble, unsure how to craft an engaging and high-scoring response. This guide will delve into why this question is asked, provide you with effective strategies to answer confidently, and equip you with the language needed to impress the examiner.
Understanding the Question’s Purpose
The IELTS Speaking test assesses your ability to communicate effectively in English. When the examiner asks about your favorite leisure activity, they are not simply looking for a list of hobbies. They want to gauge:
- Vocabulary Range: Can you use a variety of words related to hobbies, interests, and how you spend your free time?
- Fluency and Coherence: Can you speak smoothly and link your ideas logically?
- Grammatical Accuracy: Are you using correct grammar structures?
- Pronunciation: Is your speech clear and understandable?
Crafting Your Response
Here’s a step-by-step approach to answering “What is your favorite leisure activity?” effectively:
1. Choose an Activity You Can Discuss
While it’s tempting to pick an impressive-sounding activity, honesty is key. Select a leisure activity you genuinely enjoy and can discuss in detail. This could be anything from reading and photography to playing sports or volunteering.
2. Structure Your Answer (Think “PREP”)
Use the “PREP” method to add structure and substance:
- Point: State your favorite leisure activity clearly.
- Example: “My favorite leisure activity is definitely playing badminton.”
- Reason: Explain why you enjoy this activity. Be specific!
- Example: “It’s a fantastic way to stay active and relieve stress after a long day. Plus, I find the competitive aspect really engaging.”
- Example: Provide a concrete example related to your activity.
- Example: “I joined a local badminton club a few months ago, and it’s been amazing. We meet twice a week, and it’s always a lot of fun.”
- *Point (reiterate/conclude): Briefly summarize your main point.
- Example: “So yeah, badminton ticks all the boxes for me – it’s fun, social, and keeps me fit.”
3. Use Vivid Language
Engage the examiner by using descriptive language:
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Instead of: “I like reading.”
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Say: “I’m an avid reader, especially of historical fiction. Getting lost in a good book is my idea of a perfect evening.”
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Instead of: “I play football with my friends.”
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Say: “I love the camaraderie of playing football with my mates every weekend. It’s a great workout, and we have a good laugh together.”
Example Answer
Here’s a sample answer incorporating these strategies:
“If I had to choose just one, I’d say my favorite leisure activity is hiking. I find it incredibly peaceful and rejuvenating to be out in nature, surrounded by breathtaking scenery. There’s a hiking trail near my house that I love to explore. It offers stunning views of the city, and I often spot interesting wildlife along the way. Hiking allows me to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life and simply appreciate the beauty around me. It’s a fantastic way to clear my head and return feeling refreshed and energized.”
Tips for Success
- Practice Regularly: Practice speaking about your favorite leisure activity using the strategies outlined above. Record yourself to identify areas for improvement.
- Expand Your Vocabulary: Learn synonyms for common words related to hobbies and interests. Use a thesaurus or vocabulary-building apps.
- Be Enthusiastic: Speak with genuine enthusiasm about your chosen activity. Your passion will shine through and make your answer more engaging.
- Don’t Memorize: Focus on developing a flexible structure and key points, but avoid memorizing entire answers.
Remember, the examiner wants to hear you speak naturally and confidently. By following these tips and practicing regularly, you’ll be well-prepared to ace this common IELTS Speaking question. Good luck!