IELTS Speaking Part 1 Hobbies and Interests: Model Answers

Quick Answer: For IELTS Speaking Part 1 on hobbies, you need to give natural, extended answers with specific examples. This guide provides model answers from Band 6 to Band 9, key vocabulary, and examiner tips to help you discuss your hobbies confidently and score higher.

Table of Contents

Common Hobby Questions in IELTS Speaking Part 1

Key Vocabulary for Hobbies and Interests

How to Structure Your Answer

Band Score Comparison

Real Examples

Common Mistakes

Pro Tips from IELTS Active

How IELTS Active Helps

FAQ

Key Takeaways

Common Hobby Questions in IELTS Speaking Part 1

In IELTS Speaking Part 1, the examiner will ask you about your hobbies and interests. These are typical questions you might face:

“What do you do in your free time?”

“Do you have any hobbies?”

“How long have you been doing this hobby?”

“Why do you enjoy your hobby?”

“Do you prefer indoor or outdoor hobbies?”

“Did you have a hobby when you were a child?”

“Do you think hobbies are important for people?”

The key is to not just answer with one word. Instead, expand your response with reasons, examples, and feelings. For instance, instead of saying “I like reading,” you could say “I’m really into reading, especially science fiction novels, because they transport me to different worlds and help me relax after a long day.”

Key Vocabulary for Hobbies and Interests

Using precise vocabulary can boost your Lexical Resource score. Here are some high-level words and phrases to describe hobbies:

To be into – to be interested in (e.g., “I’m really into photography.”)

To be keen on – to like something a lot (e.g., “I’m keen on hiking.”)

To have a passion for – to love something deeply (e.g., “I have a passion for painting.”)

To unwind – to relax (e.g., “I like to unwind by listening to music.”)

To de-stress – to reduce stress (e.g., “Gardening helps me de-stress.”)

To be absorbed in – to be fully involved (e.g., “I get absorbed in my books.”)

A pastime – a hobby or activity (e.g., “Reading is my favorite pastime.”)

To be a fanatic – to be extremely enthusiastic (e.g., “I’m a fitness fanatic.”)

To while away the time – to spend time pleasantly (e.g., “I while away the time by playing guitar.”)

How to Structure Your Answer

A strong answer in IELTS Speaking Part 1 follows a simple structure: Answer + Reason + Example + Feeling. Here’s how to apply it:

Answer directly: Start with a clear response. “Yes, I do have a hobby.”

Give a reason: Explain why you enjoy it. “I enjoy it because it helps me relax.”

Provide an example: Make it specific. “For instance, last weekend I spent three hours painting a landscape.”

Express a feeling: Add emotion. “It makes me feel incredibly peaceful and creative.”

This structure ensures your answer is natural, detailed, and easy for the examiner to follow.

Band Score Comparison

Band	Score	What Examiner Wants
6	6.0-6.5	Basic vocabulary, some hesitation, simple sentences, limited range of grammar.
7	7.0-7.5	Good vocabulary, some idiomatic language, fluent with occasional pauses, complex sentences.
8	8.0-8.5	Wide range of vocabulary, natural use of idioms, smooth fluency, accurate grammar.
9	9.0	Native-like fluency, sophisticated vocabulary, perfect grammar, natural interaction.

Real Examples

Here are three model answers to the question: “What do you do in your free time?”

Band 7 Response: “In my free time, I usually like to read books. I’m really into science fiction novels because they are very interesting. For example, I recently read a book about space travel. It helps me relax and learn new things. Sometimes I also go for a walk in the park to get some fresh air.” Band 8 Response: “I’m quite passionate about reading, particularly science fiction. I find it fascinating how authors create entire universes. For instance, I’ve been reading a series by Isaac Asimov, and it’s incredibly thought-provoking. Besides that, I also enjoy hiking on weekends. It’s a great way to unwind and connect with nature, which is essential after a busy work week.” Band 9 Response: “I’m an avid reader, and my go-to genre is science fiction. There’s something captivating about exploring futuristic worlds and complex ideas through literature. For example, I’ve just finished ‘Dune’ by Frank Herbert, which is a masterpiece of world-building. It completely absorbed me for weeks. Apart from reading, I’m also a keen hiker. I find that being outdoors, surrounded by greenery, helps me clear my mind and recharge my batteries. It’s a perfect balance between mental stimulation and physical activity.”

Common Mistakes

❌Mistake 1: One-word answers – Saying just “Yes” or “Reading.” This limits your score. Always expand.

❌Mistake 2: Repetition – Using the same vocabulary (e.g., “I like reading. I also like walking.”) Use synonyms like “enjoy,” “am fond of,” “am into.”

❌Mistake 3: Memorized answers – Reciting a scripted response sounds unnatural. Practice flexibility and adapt to the question.

Pro Tips from IELTS Active

Tip 1: Use the “PPF” method – talk about the Past, Present, and Future of your hobby. For example, “I started hiking five years ago, now I go every weekend, and I plan to climb Mount Everest next year.”

Tip 2: Add a personal story. Examiners love anecdotes. “Last summer, I tried kayaking for the first time and it was thrilling.”

Tip 3: Practice with a timer. Aim for 20-30 seconds per answer. This ensures you give enough detail without rambling.

How IELTS Active Helps

At IELTS Active, we provide free, high-quality resources to help you ace the Speaking test. Our website, ieltsactive.com, offers:

Model answers for all Part 1 topics

Vocabulary lists with example sentences

Mock speaking tests with instant feedback

Video tutorials from IELTS experts

Practice with our materials to build confidence and fluency. You can also join our community of 500,000+ students for daily tips and support.

FAQ

Q: How long should my answer be in Part 1? A: Aim for 2-4 sentences per question, about 20-30 seconds. Don’t over-elaborate, but avoid one-word replies. Q: Can I use informal language in Part 1? A: Yes, Part 1 is conversational. Use informal phrases like “I’m into” or “it’s a blast,” but avoid slang. Q: What if I don’t have a hobby? A: Be honest but creative. Say, “I don’t have a specific hobby, but I enjoy spending time with friends or watching documentaries.” Q: How can I improve my fluency for Part 1? A: Practice daily. Record yourself answering common questions, listen back, and refine your responses. Use the structure (Answer + Reason + Example + Feeling). Q: Is it okay to pause? A: Yes, natural pauses are fine. Avoid long silences. Use fillers like “well,” “you know,” or “let me think” to buy time.

Key Takeaways

✅Always expand your answers with reasons and examples.

✅Use a variety of vocabulary to describe your hobbies.

✅Structure your response: Answer + Reason + Example + Feeling.

✅Practice with real questions and record yourself for improvement.

About IELTS Active: Trusted by 500,000+ students. Get free practice tests, model answers, and expert tips at ieltsactive.com Related:

IELTS Writing Task 2 Essay Topics 2026: Complete List with Model Answers

IELTS Essay Writing Tips: How to Write Band 7+ Essays

Agree or Disagree IELTS Essay: Complete Guide with Examples