As an IELTS instructor with over 20 years of experience, I often find students struggling to catch specific details in the Listening test, particularly when it comes to locations related to hobbies. Understanding where someone practices their hobby can be crucial for answering certain question types correctly. This article will guide you on how to effectively identify and remember location details in IELTS Listening, focusing on the common scenario of “where does the candidate do his/her hobby?”.
Why is Understanding Location Important in IELTS Listening?
The IELTS Listening test assesses your ability to understand spoken English in various contexts. Often, you’ll encounter dialogues or monologues where speakers discuss hobbies, and the location where these hobbies are pursued becomes a key piece of information. This is particularly relevant for question types like:
- Multiple Choice: You might need to choose the correct location from several options.
- Form Filling: You might have to fill in a gap with the specific location mentioned.
- Sentence Completion: You might be required to complete a sentence with the correct location detail.
Strategies for Identifying Hobby Locations in IELTS Listening
Here’s how you can improve your ability to pinpoint location details related to hobbies:
1. Pay Attention to Prepositions and Location Indicators
- Prepositions: Listen carefully for prepositions like “at,” “in,” “on,” “near,” “behind,” etc. These words often precede location names.
- Location Indicators: Be alert for phrases like “the local…”, “a community center,” “just outside of…”, “in the city center,” which provide clues about the location.
2. Focus on Keywords Related to Hobbies
When you hear keywords related to hobbies, like “photography,” “painting,” “swimming,” or “playing chess,” immediately heighten your focus. The location information is likely to follow closely.
3. Use Shorthand and Visualisation
- Shorthand: Develop a system of abbreviations and symbols to quickly jot down location names while listening.
- Visualisation: Try to picture the location in your mind as the speaker describes it. This can aid memory recall.
Example from an IELTS Listening Test
Let’s consider a potential scenario:
Audio Script:
“My main hobby is playing the guitar. I’ve been doing it for years. I actually take lessons at the Music Institute downtown every Saturday morning. It’s a great place, and I’ve met some really talented musicians there.”
Question:
Where does the speaker take guitar lessons?
Answer:
The Music Institute downtown
Explanation:
The speaker uses the preposition “at” followed by the specific location “Music Institute downtown.”
Tips to Improve Your Performance
- Practice Active Listening: Regularly listen to English audio materials, like podcasts, news reports, or documentaries, focusing on identifying location details.
- Familiarise Yourself with Common Locations: Make a list of common locations associated with various hobbies. This will help you anticipate potential answers.
- Review Past Papers: Analyze past IELTS Listening tests to understand the types of locations commonly asked about and how they are typically mentioned in the audio.
Conclusion
Being able to accurately identify where someone practices their hobby is a valuable skill for the IELTS Listening test. By paying close attention to prepositions, location indicators, and keywords, and by practicing active listening, you can significantly improve your ability to answer location-based questions correctly. Remember, practice makes perfect!