Hobbies

In this lesson you will review IELTS speaking part 1 tips and learn some key vocabulary by listening to some sample answers for IELTS speaking part 1 questions related to 'hobbies'. Make sure to take note of any phrases or words you want to remember!

01 Vocabulary

Read the below definitions. Then complete the quiz that follows.

• Spare time (n) - free time.
• To unwind (v) - to relax.
• To blow off steam (v) - to release negative feelings/to relax after a stressful time.
• To can't get enough of (v) - to love something so much that you always want to it. Can be used for an activity (eg. playing football) or a thing (eg. pizza).
• There's only twenty-four hours in a day (p) - There isn't enough time to do everything you want to/need to do.
• Leisure activities (n) - things you do in your free time for enjoyment. eg. Playing football/reading.
• Hectic(adj) - busy and often stressful.
• To take up (v) - to begin doing a new hobby.

Now, take the quiz. More than one answer may be possible. Choose the most appropriate answer.

02 Listening - Fill in the blanks

Listen to the audio recording of the sample answers. Use a notebook to take note of the answers. Then, check your answers.

03 Practice

Now it's your turn, prepare your own answers using some of the vocabulary you learned today.

You should use the model answers to help you and you can 'steal' some phrases but you should not copy or try to memorize the answers.

Then, practice answering the below questions. It is a good idea to record your answers on your phone then listen to the answers and correct any mistakes you can hear.

Remember to get a high score you need to to the following.

• Answer the question by paraphrasing.
• Expand. (Why/when/how long)
• Use different tenses/structures.
• Include fluency markers.
• Use some idiomatic vocabulary and phrasal verbs.

1. Do you have any hobbies?

Yeah, of course I do!

In my spare time, I absolutely love playing tennis. I can’t get enough of it. 

I took it up more than 5 years and nowadays I play every weekend with my father. I first began playing so as to get fit but I’ve found it’s also a great way to unwind. 

2. Are there any hobbies you would like to have in the future? 

Certainly, I’ve always been interested in trying new things, but unfortunately, there’s only twenty four hours in a day! 

In particular, I’d love to learn how to play piano because I think it has a very soothing sound. If I had more time, I would definitely take lessons.

3. What are some advantages of having hobbies? 

That’s a good question. I suppose, hobbies provide numerous benefits such as the opportunity to meet new people or improve one’s health.

Personally, leisure activities help me to relax. These days, to be honest, because of study and work, life can sometimes be pretty hectic. Therefore, it is essential that I do something to blow off steam.