As an IELTS instructor with over 20 years of experience, I’ve encountered countless students who get flustered when the IELTS Speaking test throws them a curveball. One surprisingly common question that often trips them up is “What’s your favourite sport?”. While seemingly straightforward, this question can quickly reveal gaps in vocabulary and fluency if you’re not prepared.
Why This Question Matters in Your IELTS Speaking Test
The examiner isn’t assessing your athletic prowess. They are listening for your ability to:
- Use a range of vocabulary: Can you go beyond simple terms like “play” and “like”? Think about verbs like “participate,” “compete,” “excel,” nouns like “teamwork,” “strategy,” “dedication,” and adjectives like “exhilarating,” “challenging,” “rewarding.”
- Articulate your opinions and reasons: Why do you enjoy this particular sport? What makes it special for you?
- Demonstrate grammatical accuracy and fluency: Can you speak naturally and smoothly without too many pauses or grammatical errors?
How to Ace the “Favourite Sport” Question
Here’s a breakdown of how to approach this topic:
1. Choose a Sport (or Activity) Wisely
You don’t need to be a professional athlete to answer this question well. If you’re not passionate about a specific sport, think about an activity you enjoy:
- Outdoor activities: Hiking, cycling, swimming
- Fitness activities: Yoga, dancing, martial arts
- Games: Chess, board games, video games (yes, even esports count!)
playing-basketball|Playing Basketball|A group of young people playing basketball in a city park, with the focus on teamwork and enjoyment.
2. Develop Your Narrative
Think about these points to create a compelling answer:
- What: Clearly state your favourite sport/activity.
- Why: Explain why you enjoy it. Is it the physical challenge, the mental stimulation, the social aspect, or something else? Be specific!
- How: Do you participate regularly? Do you watch it professionally? Share a brief anecdote or experience related to it.
3. Use Vivid Language
Instead of: “I like swimming because it’s good exercise,” say:
- “I find swimming incredibly invigorating. It’s a fantastic full-body workout that leaves me feeling refreshed and energized.”
4. Practice Makes Perfect
Don’t wait until test day to formulate your answer. Practice speaking about your chosen sport/activity using the vocabulary and structure you’ve learned. Record yourself to identify areas for improvement.
Example Answer
Let’s put it all together:
“My favorite sport, without a doubt, is basketball. I’ve been playing since I was a child, and I’m still captivated by the fast-paced action and strategic teamwork involved. There’s nothing quite like the adrenaline rush of making a difficult shot or the satisfaction of executing a well-coordinated play with my teammates. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to stay in shape and de-stress after a long day.”
Key Takeaways
Remember:
- Be prepared to discuss your interests in a clear and engaging way.
- Use descriptive language and provide specific examples.
- Practice is crucial! The more you practice, the more confident and fluent you’ll become.
By following these tips, you’ll be well-equipped to handle the “favourite sport” question and any other topic that comes your way in the IELTS Speaking test. Good luck!