- Hobbies
IELTS Speaking Part 1: Sample Questions with Answers
1. What do you like to do in your free time?
Sample Answer, C1 English Level, Advanced, Band Score 6.5-7.5
In my free time, I love immersing myself in the world of literature. Whether it’s reading a classic novel, analyzing a new bestseller, or simply browsing through a stack of magazines, I find it incredibly enriching and fulfilling. I feel that it’s a great way to relax and unwind, while also expanding my knowledge and understanding of the world around me.
When I have some spare time, I enjoy reading. I find it really interesting and it helps me to relax. I like to read different things like novels, magazines, or newspapers. It’s a great way to learn new things and explore different ideas.
My leisure time is usually spent indulging in the world of literature. I derive immense pleasure and satisfaction from perusing the pages of a good book, be it a timeless classic or a contemporary bestseller. Reading helps me to unwind and destress, while also expanding my horizons and broadening my perspective on life. In my opinion, there is no greater pleasure than losing oneself in the pages of a well-crafted piece of literature.
2. How long have you been interested in your hobby?
Sample Answer, C1 English Level, Advanced, Band Score 6.5-7.5
I’ve been fascinated by photography for as long as I can remember. I first became interested in it when I was a child, and my parents bought me a disposable camera to take on a family trip. I was captivated by the way that I could capture moments and memories through the lens of a camera, and I’ve been hooked ever since.
I’ve been interested in photography for a really long time. I think it all started when I was a kid and my parents gave me a disposable camera to take pictures on a family vacation. I loved being able to capture special moments and memories, and I’ve been interested in photography ever since.
Photography has been a lifelong passion of mine, stretching back to my earliest memories. I recall being introduced to the art of photography by my parents, who gifted me a disposable camera on a family vacation when I was just a child. From that moment on, I was captivated by the power of photography to immortalize moments and memories. Since then, I’ve devoted countless hours to honing my skills and exploring the vast and wondrous world of photography.
3. What inspired you to start your hobby?
Sample Answer, C1 English Level, Advanced, Band Score 6.5-7.5
My love for music began when I was a child and my parents would play classical music in the car on long drives. I was fascinated by the sounds of the different instruments and how they all came together to create something beautiful. As I grew older, I started listening to different genres and learning to play instruments myself, which only deepened my appreciation for music.
I started my hobby of playing music because I was inspired by the classical music my parents played in the car when I was young. I loved hearing the different instruments and how they worked together to create beautiful sounds. As I got older, I started exploring different kinds of music and learning to play instruments myself, which made me love music even more.
My passion for music was sparked in my early childhood by the enchanting melodies of classical music that my parents would play in the car during long drives. I was utterly captivated by the way that each instrument contributed to the symphony of sounds, and I developed a deep appreciation for the art form. As I matured, my love for music continued to grow, and I began to explore different genres and learn to play a variety of instruments. To this day, the beauty and complexity of music remain a constant source of inspiration and wonder in my life.
4. Do you prefer to do your hobby alone or with others?
Sample Answer, C1 English Level, Advanced, Band Score 6.5-7.5
It depends on the hobby. For example, when I’m practicing yoga or meditation, I prefer to do it alone as it allows me to focus better and tune into my body and mind. On the other hand, for hobbies like hiking or team sports, I enjoy doing them with others as it adds a social and cooperative element that enhances the experience.
Whether I prefer to do my hobby alone or with others depends on the activity. When I’m doing yoga or meditation, I like to do it by myself so I can concentrate better. But for things like hiking or team sports, I prefer to do them with others because it makes it more fun and social.
When it comes to my hobbies, my preference for doing them alone or with others varies depending on the activity. For solitary pursuits like yoga or meditation, I find that practicing alone allows me to fully immerse myself in the practice and connect with my inner self. However, for activities that require teamwork or social interaction, such as hiking or team sports, I greatly enjoy sharing the experience with others and feeding off the energy and enthusiasm of those around me.
5.Have you ever taken any classes or lessons to improve your skills in your hobby?
Sample Answer, C1 English Level, Advanced, Band Score 6.5-7.5
Yes, I have taken classes and lessons to improve my skills in my hobby. For example, when I started learning photography, I took a beginner’s class to understand the fundamentals of the craft, and as I progressed, I took more advanced courses to develop my technique and style.
I have taken classes and lessons to improve my skills in my hobby. When I first started learning photography, I took a beginner’s class to learn the basics, and then I took more advanced courses to improve my technique and develop my own style.
To advance my skills in my hobbies, I have actively sought out classes and lessons to refine my craft. For instance, when I first delved into the world of photography, I enrolled in a beginner’s class to gain a solid foundation in the art, and as my skills progressed, I sought out more specialized and advanced courses to hone my technical abilities and artistic vision. I believe that seeking out formal instruction has been instrumental in helping me reach new levels of proficiency and creativity in my hobbies.
6. Do you have any plans to take your hobby to the next level, such as turning it into a career?
Sample Answer, C1 English Level, Advanced, Band Score 6.5-7.5
While I love my hobby and am committed to improving my skills, I don’t currently have any plans to turn it into a career. I believe that it’s important to have a balance in life and to pursue hobbies simply for the joy they bring, rather than for financial gain.
I enjoy my hobby a lot and want to get better at it, but I don’t plan on making it my job. I think it’s important to have hobbies just for fun and not just for making money.
Although I’m deeply passionate about my hobby and continually strive to elevate my skills, I don’t currently have any intentions of transforming it into a profession. For me, the beauty of hobbies lies in their ability to provide a source of joy and fulfillment outside the constraints of the professional world. I believe that by keeping my hobby separate from my career, I can maintain a healthy balance in my life and continue to nurture my creative expression purely for the sake of personal enjoyment.
7. What benefits do you get from pursuing your hobby?
Sample Answer, C1 English Level, Advanced, Band Score 6.5-7.5
Pursuing my hobby brings me a sense of fulfillment and helps me to unwind after a busy day. It also allows me to express my creativity and connect with others who share the same passion.
I get a lot out of my hobby. It makes me feel good and relaxed after a long day, and it lets me be creative and meet people who like the same things.
My hobby provides me with a multitude of benefits, both tangible and intangible. On one hand, it serves as a valuable outlet for relaxation and stress relief, allowing me to disconnect from the demands of everyday life and tap into a sense of calm and inner peace. On the other hand, it enables me to explore and cultivate my artistic and creative talents, providing an avenue for self-expression and personal growth. Additionally, it fosters a sense of community and social connection, as I have the opportunity to meet and interact with like-minded individuals who share my passion and enthusiasm for my chosen hobby.
8. Do you think hobbies are important for people? Why or why not?
Sample Answer, C1 English Level, Advanced, Band Score 6.5-7.5
Yes, I believe hobbies are important for people as they provide a way to de-stress, unwind and pursue interests outside of work or daily responsibilities. Engaging in a hobby can help to improve mental and emotional well-being, enhance creativity, and promote personal growth and development.
I think hobbies are really important for people because they give you a chance to relax and do things you enjoy outside of work or other responsibilities. Hobbies can also help you be more creative and learn new things.
Undoubtedly, hobbies play a critical role in promoting overall health and wellness, enabling individuals to cultivate a sense of purpose, fulfillment, and joy in their lives. By providing a break from the routine and demands of daily life, hobbies allow us to tap into our unique interests and passions, exploring and developing our identities beyond our work and responsibilities. In turn, this can lead to increased self-awareness, confidence, and well-being, as well as facilitate social connections and a sense of community. Ultimately, hobbies are a vital aspect of a balanced and fulfilling life.
9. Do you think people should spend more time on their hobbies? Why or why not?
Sample Answer, C1 English Level, Advanced, Band Score 6.5-7.5
Yes, I believe people should spend more time on their hobbies as it can have a positive impact on their mental and emotional well-being. Pursuing hobbies can provide a sense of accomplishment, fulfillment, and pleasure, and can help people to cope with stress and anxiety. Additionally, engaging in hobbies can help people to develop new skills and interests, broaden their perspectives, and enhance their creativity.
I think it would be good for people to spend more time on their hobbies because it can make them feel better and help them manage stress. Hobbies can also be a way to learn new things and discover new interests.
Given the numerous benefits that hobbies can provide, including stress reduction, personal growth, and enjoyment, I firmly believe that people should prioritize dedicating more time to their hobbies. By actively pursuing hobbies, individuals can create a more balanced and fulfilling life, where they can find meaning, purpose, and enjoyment beyond their work and daily responsibilities. In essence, investing time in hobbies can lead to a greater sense of self-awareness, personal growth, and fulfillment, ultimately contributing to a healthier and happier life overall.
10. Do you think technology has had a positive or negative effect on hobbies? Why?
Sample Answer, C1 English Level, Advanced, Band Score 6.5-7.5
I believe that technology has had both positive and negative effects on hobbies. On the positive side, technology has made it easier to access information about hobbies, connect with other hobbyists around the world, and even learn new skills online. On the negative side, technology can also be a distraction from hobbies and can take away from the hands-on experience and enjoyment that comes with pursuing a hobby in person. Additionally, some hobbies may require expensive technology or equipment, which can be a barrier to entry for some people.
I think technology has had both good and bad impacts on hobbies. It has made it easier to find information about hobbies, connect with other people who share the same interests, and even learn new skills online. However, it can also distract people from their hobbies and take away from the joy of engaging with them in real life. Moreover, some hobbies may require expensive technology or equipment, which may make it difficult for some individuals to get started.
The effects of technology on hobbies are two-fold. On the one hand, it has brought about numerous benefits, such as making it easier to access information and resources, connect with like-minded individuals, and learn new skills from the comfort of one’s own home. On the other hand, it has also created new challenges, such as the tendency to become overly reliant on technology and to lose touch with the hands-on experience of pursuing a hobby in person. Additionally, the cost of specialized technology or equipment can pose a barrier to entry for those who are interested in pursuing certain hobbies.
