To prepare well for the IELTS speaking test, you need to become familiar talking about popular topics that frequently feature in this part of test. In this practice, you will focus on the popular IELTS speaking topic of hobbies and interests. Remember, in this test, you will be face to face with the examiner. In Part 1 there will be a total of 12 questions, split into 3 categories, so for each category there will be four questions. Make sure your responses contain enough detail and language to show off your English language skills. I recommend you aim for 3-4 sentences per question response.
Check out my top 3 tips for success in the IELTS speaking test below:
– Use the audio recording below. Play the recording and pause it after each question. Give your answer (remember to aim for 3-4 good sentences!) and then press play to proceed to the next question.
– Check you are giving enough detail in your answers by using a timer on your phone or watch to time the length of this part of the test. To answer these 4 questions, you should aim to speak for around 1 minute 40 seconds.
– Record yourself giving your answers. Listen back to it at the end of the test and consider how well you answered the question, how good your language use was and how clearly you spoke.
Audio Clip
Listen to the audio file by clicking on the play button:
Questions
- What hobbies or interests do you have?
- Do you require any special equipment for your hobby?
- Do you enjoy doing hobbies with other people or do you prefer to be alone?
- Why do you think people have hobbies?
MODEL ANSWERS
- What hobbies or interests do you have?
My favourite hobby is playing the piano. I started taking piano lessons when I was seven years old and I’ve played ever since. At age 18, I took my Grade 8 exam and then I stopped playing for a few years. I started to miss it though so I recently purchased a new piano! In addition to the piano, I also enjoy outdoor sports, such as rock climbing.
- Do you require any special equipment for your hobby?
For playing the piano, there are only a few items that are necessary to purchase. Obviously, you have to start with buying a piano, although nowadays there are a lot of keyboards that give the feel of playing a real piano. You should also purchase a piano stool so that you learn to sit properly with a straight back, and a metronome is another important tool to help you keep in time.
- Do you enjoy doing hobbies with other people or do you prefer to be alone?
For me, I think I enjoy both. One of the things I love about rock climbing is spending the day outdoors with friends. Climbers are very supportive and encouraging of each other so it is very easy to meet new people and build new friendships in this sport. However, I also love the time to myself on the piano. When I play, it feels as though nothing except the piano and I exists in the world.
- Why do you think people have hobbies?
I think hobbies provide people with a way to relax. People in today’s world work very hard and so it is important that they also spend their time partaking in relaxing activities and generally having some fun! I believe that hobbies help us to switch off from the pressures and stresses that exist in society.