IELTS Speaking Hobbies and Free Time

250 Talking About Hobbies and Free Time In this IELTS Speaking practice session, Emma and Jack explore how to confidently talk about hobbies and free-time activities. Covering Parts 1, 2, and 3 of the Speaking test, they provide sample answers, vocabulary tips, and strategies for this engaging topic. Key Highlights: Part 1: General Questions on Hobbies and Free Time Question: Do you have a hobby? Sample Answer: Yes, I enjoy reading books. It’s a relaxing way to learn new things and escape into different worlds. Question: How often do you spend time on your hobby? Sample Answer: I read almost every evening for about an hour. It helps me unwind after a busy day. Question: Do you prefer indoor or outdoor activities in your free time? Sample Answer: I prefer outdoor activities, like hiking or cycling, because I like being in nature and staying active. Part 2: Cue Card Task Cue Card Topic: Describe a hobby or free-time activity you enjoy. Jack’s Answer: What it is: Photography. How you became interested: Borrowed a friend’s camera. What you do: Take photos of nature and people during events. Why you enjoy it: It helps you see beauty in everyday things and is a creative way to relax. Follow-up Question: Do you think photography is a difficult hobby? Sample Answer: It can be challenging at first, especially learning how to use a camera, but it gets easier with practice. Part 3: Discussion Questions Question: Why do you think people need hobbies? Sample Answer: Hobbies help people relax and take a break from their busy lives. They also give you a chance to develop new skills or meet new people. Question: Do you think hobbies today are different from those in the past? Sample Answer: Yes, definitely. In the past, hobbies were often hands-on, like knitting or gardening. But now, many people spend their free time on digital hobbies, like playing video games or watching online videos. Question: What kinds of hobbies are most popular in your country? Sample Answer: Sports are very popular, especially football and cricket. People also enjoy watching movies and spending time with family. Vocabulary Review: Hands-On Hobbies: Activities that involve physically creating or doing something. Practice Sentence: Hands-on hobbies like cooking and painting are great for creativity. Take a Break from Busy Lives: To pause or relax from daily responsibilities. Practice Sentence: Traveling is a great way to take a break from busy lives. Key Takeaways: Use specific examples and descriptive phrases like hands-on hobbies and take a break to make your answers more engaging. For Part 2, organize your response clearly and explain why you enjoy the activity. Provide thoughtful comparisons in Part 3 to show advanced vocabulary and analytical thinking.