As an IELTS instructor with over 20 years of experience, I’ve encountered countless students who initially stumble over the seemingly simple question, “What is your hobby?”. While it appears straightforward, this question in the IELTS Speaking test is your golden opportunity to showcase your vocabulary, fluency, and ability to elaborate on personal interests.
Understanding the Significance of the Hobby Question
The examiner isn’t evaluating your choice of hobby, but rather your capacity to:
- Speak fluently and naturally: The question is designed to make you feel comfortable and encourage a natural flow of conversation.
- Use a range of vocabulary: Discussing your hobbies allows you to demonstrate your knowledge of topic-specific vocabulary.
- Provide extended answers: It’s your chance to elaborate, provide details, and showcase your ability to hold the examiner’s attention.
How to Effectively Talk About Your Hobbies
1. Choose a Suitable Hobby:
While honesty is important, selecting a hobby you can comfortably discuss in English is key. This doesn’t mean you need to invent a hobby; rather, consider which of your interests offer the richest conversational material.
2. Develop Your Narrative:
Think about the following:
- Why do you enjoy this hobby? What sparked your interest?
- How often do you engage in your hobby? Are there any routines or rituals associated with it?
- What specific skills or knowledge have you gained through this hobby? Can you provide examples?
- Do you share this hobby with others? If so, how does it contribute to your social life?
3. Use Vivid Vocabulary:
Don’t settle for basic vocabulary. Instead of saying “I like reading,” consider using more specific and descriptive terms:
- “I’m an avid reader of historical fiction.”
- “I find myself drawn to biographies of influential figures.”
- “Reading allows me to escape into different worlds and perspectives.”
4. Provide Concrete Examples:
Instead of simply stating “I enjoy painting,” elaborate with specific details:
- “I enjoy painting landscapes, particularly those that capture the beauty of nature’s tranquility.”
- “Recently, I’ve been experimenting with watercolors to create more abstract pieces.”
Example from a Real IELTS Speaking Test
Examiner: “What is your hobby?”
Candidate: “One of my favorite hobbies is photography. I’ve always been fascinated by the way a single photograph can capture a moment in time and evoke emotions. I particularly enjoy landscape photography; there’s something so peaceful and awe-inspiring about capturing the beauty of nature. On weekends, I often go hiking in the nearby mountains with my camera, searching for the perfect shot.”
Analysis: The candidate provides a clear answer, expresses their passion, and elaborates with details about their preferred type of photography and how they engage with their hobby.
Tips for Success
- Practice speaking about your hobby before the test. This will help you feel more confident and fluent during the exam.
- Be prepared to answer follow-up questions. The examiner may ask you to elaborate on certain aspects of your hobby.
- Don’t memorize answers. Focus on developing genuine and engaging responses.
Conclusion
Remember, the “hobby question” is your opportunity to shine! By choosing a suitable hobby, developing your narrative, using vivid language, and providing concrete examples, you can turn this seemingly simple question into a testament to your English fluency and communication skills.