IELTS Speaking Part 1

Hobbies: IELTS Speaking Part 1 questions and answers

Questions the examiner may ask about hobbies, each with a natural band 8–9 sample answer. Read them aloud, then try your own.

What do you like doing in your free time?

Mostly photography. I don't have a fancy camera, just my phone, but I love wandering around Old Dhaka on Friday mornings, taking pictures of rickshaw art, crumbling buildings and people going about their day. Apart from that, I watch a fair amount of football and read when I can.

How long have you had this hobby?

For around three years. It started during my first year at university, when a friend dragged me along to a photo walk organised by a student club. I wasn't expecting much, but I came home with a couple of shots I was really proud of, and I've been hooked ever since.

Did you have the same hobbies when you were a child?

Not really. As a kid I was much more active. I spent almost every afternoon playing cricket in the lane behind our building with a tennis ball wrapped in electrical tape. I also collected stamps for a while, though I've no idea where that album ended up.

Do you prefer hobbies you can do alone or with other people?

On the whole, I lean towards solo hobbies, because they let me go at my own pace. When I'm taking photos, I might stand in one spot for twenty minutes waiting for the right light, which would drive most people mad. Having said that, I do enjoy the occasional group photo walk for the company.

Is there a new hobby you would like to try?

Yes, swimming. It's slightly embarrassing, but I never properly learnt, even though Bangladesh is a country full of rivers. A sports complex near my university runs evening classes for adults, so I'm planning to sign up after my exams. Besides being a useful skill, it'd be great exercise.

Sample answers written by Abroadway as models of natural, high-band speaking (not official IELTS samples).

Answer these questions out loud

Free, no account needed. The examiner voice reads each question; you get a band estimate at the end.

Loading the speaking practice…

Prepare for IELTS for free, with a plan made for you

Create a free account to get a daily study plan, track your predicted band, save flashcards and take a timed mock exam every week. 96 lessons and 12 full tests, no fees ever.