Cue Cards Samples with band 8 answers
Describe an interest or hobby that you enjoy - Cue Card # 77
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IELTS Speaking Part 2: IELTS Cue Card/ Candidate Task Card.
[The topic for your talk will be written on a card which the examiner will hand over to you. Read it carefully and then make some brief notes.]
Describe an interest or hobby that you enjoy.
You should say:
- how you became interested in it
- how long you have been doing it
- why you enjoy it
and explain what benefits you get from this interest or hobby.
[Instruction: You will have to talk about the topic for one to two minutes. You have one minute to think about what you are going to say. You can make some notes to help you if you wish.]
[Examiner: All right? Remember you have one to two minutes for this, so don't worry if I stop you. I'll tell you when the time is up. Can you start speaking now, please?]
Model Answer 1:
Ohh! That's a great topic for me to talk about. Before giving any details, I'd like to begin by thanking you.
The hobby that I truly enjoy and always look forward to is travelling. It’s not just a pastime for me - it’s a way of experiencing life more fully. My love for travelling started quite unexpectedly when I was around fifteen. My family planned a road trip across the northern parts of our country, and I still remember the excitement of waking up in a new place every day, soaking in unfamiliar sights, sounds, and even accents. That trip was my first real taste of adventure, and ever since then, I’ve been hooked.
Over the past eight years, I’ve continued to travel whenever I get the chance - whether it’s a weekend getaway to a nearby town or a longer journey abroad. I’ve explored serene mountain villages, bustling cities, historical ruins, and quiet coastal towns. Each trip has left its own unique mark on me, teaching me something new and broadening my perspective. I often travel solo now, which has made the experience even more personal and meaningful.
What I love most about travelling is the sense of freedom and discovery. Every place has a story to tell, and I love uncovering those stories - whether it’s through conversations with locals, wandering through an ancient street, or tasting food I’ve never even heard of before. Travelling pulls me out of my routine and reminds me how beautifully diverse the world is.
Beyond the joy and thrill, this hobby has given me countless benefits. I’ve become more open-minded, adaptable, and even more patient, especially when dealing with unexpected changes like missed trains or language barriers. Travelling has also improved my communication skills and helped me build a deeper appreciation for different cultures and ways of life. It’s a constant reminder that there’s so much more to see and learn, and that thought keeps me motivated and curious.
Model Answer 2:
In the past, I tried a number of hobbies, but I just couldn’t stick with them for too long - probably because of the age factor. But, at this point in my life, I must say that I have found a hobby that I could probably enjoy for the rest of my life without ever getting bored.
The name of this particular hobby is called “Internet surfing and collecting information from it”. Yes, you heard it right. My favourite hobby nowadays is surfing the Internet. I also think that more and more people should consider surfing the Internet as their hobby because there are just so many interesting things to learn from the World Wide Web that it is almost impossible to get a better view of the world in which we live without browsing the Internet. For this reason, I have become quite interested in it.
At least, I have been doing this for the last five years or so, and I love it. Besides, what could be a better hobby than learning about the world around us with just a click of a mouse? The best thing about this hobby is that I can enjoy it anytime from the comfort of my home.
Anyway, I enjoy this hobby because it stimulates my mind and brain unlike anything else. Besides, the wealth of information, I receive from the Internet, helps me make many informed decisions which otherwise wouldn’t be possible that easily.
It offers a plethora of benefits. Well, do you want to learn about a unique aspect of a particular culture or tradition? Well, the Internet has it whether you want just some written/text information or an actual video of it. You are interested to learn about the recipes for some delicious food? The Internet will provide you with tons of videos on it for you. Like these, there are so many things that we can learn by surfing the Internet if you really have the intellectual acumen to put all the information in the proper context. Now, why would I think of going outside to enjoy some hobbies while I can do it right at my home with my family members and loved ones?
Sample Answer 3:
Today I am going to talk about a hobby I particularly enjoy when I am at home in the UK. I will tell you what the hobby is; how I became interested in it; how long I have been doing it; what benefits it offers; and why it is important to me.
Well, my hobby is running! I know I do not really look like a runner, and it is true I am not very fast, but this is still the activity that I like to do in my spare time.
I have not been running for very long. I started running just 28 months ago, as I decided I needed to get fit, and I thought it would be a cheap way to exercise. I did not expect to enjoy myself. Near to where I live, there is a park. It is very beautiful with trees and streams. Each Saturday a large group of about 500 people meet at 9.00 a.m. in the morning and go for a 5 km run together. This event is called Parkrun, and it happens in over 300 different places in the UK each week. I was nervous when I first went but found the group was friendly and encouraging. Now I go every week, and I even have trained for some longer races 10 km and my longest was 20 km!
I have made lots of friends through running and it is a great benefit of this hobby. However, the best surprise was that when I went to my local Parkrun, I met someone I had not seen for over 30 years! It was an amazing experience! We had been at school together but did not keep in touch. We had both moved to the new city of Sheffield and did not realise we lived so close to each other. Now I run with this friend every week, and we go for breakfast each Saturday after our run. Running is important to me because it keeps me fit, has helped me make new friends, and has shown me that I am not too old to try new things!
[ Written by - Lucy Marris | Careers Adviser (UK), TEFL teacher (Vietnam) ]
Idea generation for this Candidate task card / Cue card topic:
Talking about a hobby or interest you truly enjoy is a great way to express your personality in the IELTS Speaking test. Below are several hobbies that people commonly find meaningful and fulfilling. Each one includes specific details that will help you cover all the prompts in the cue card.
1. Photography:
I got into photography during a family trip when a cousin let me use his DSLR. I've been practising it for the past five years. I enjoy it because it helps me capture memories and view life from different perspectives. It also improves my observation skills and creativity, and sometimes I even earn money by doing freelance photo shoots.
2. Reading novels:
My interest in reading started during school when I read a fantasy novel for a book report. I’ve been reading regularly for over a decade. I enjoy it because it allows me to escape reality and dive into imaginative worlds. It also improves my vocabulary and helps me concentrate better.
3. Playing the guitar:
I became interested in playing the guitar after watching a friend perform at a school concert. I've been playing for about three years now. I love the soothing effect of music and how it helps me express emotions. It also improves my coordination and helps me relax after a stressful day.
4. Gardening:
I started gardening with my grandmother when I was a child. I’ve continued it as a weekend hobby ever since. I enjoy it because it connects me with nature and gives me a sense of peace. It also teaches patience and responsibility while providing fresh herbs and vegetables.
5. Jogging:
I picked up jogging during the lockdown when I was looking for ways to stay active. I’ve kept it up for almost two years now. I enjoy the endorphin rush and the mental clarity it gives me. It keeps me fit, improves my stamina, and clears my mind.
6. Cooking:
I developed an interest in cooking during my university years when I had to cook for myself. Over time, it became more than just a necessity. I enjoy trying new recipes and creating dishes for friends and family. It’s not only therapeutic but also helps save money and promotes healthy eating.
7. Painting and sketching:
My love for painting started in art class at school. I’ve kept at it ever since as a creative outlet. I enjoy it because it allows me to express my inner thoughts visually. It improves my focus, relieves stress, and adds colour to my life.
8. Playing chess:
I was introduced to chess by my grandfather. I've been playing it for several years. I love the intellectual challenge and strategy involved. It sharpens my critical thinking and decision-making skills.
9. Blogging:
I started blogging during college to document my travel experiences. I've been maintaining my blog for four years now. I enjoy writing and sharing ideas with a wider audience. It has improved my writing skills and opened up opportunities in content creation and networking.
10. Language learning:
I became interested in learning Spanish after watching a Spanish TV series. I’ve been learning it online for over a year. I enjoy the process of mastering a new language and discovering a different culture. It boosts my memory and might help in future travel or job opportunities.
Model Answer 4:
Blogging is a hobby that I enjoy so much, and I've been doing it very passionately for the last 3 to 4 years. I am so excited to be able to talk about this passion and hobby of mine.
A blog is a short form of "weblog" and it lets bloggers - people who maintain a blog - write on topics they like. It is very similar to a website - to put it in a simple term. The blog posts - similar to articles - I write are open for anyone to read online. I became interested in this hobby because I realised back then that blogging is an excellent way to jot down my thoughts on various topics, express my opinions and make a community of like-minded people.
My blog is not being collaborated with anyone at the moment. Currently, I am updating it alone, but I have a plan to share this with some of my friends who also have an interest in writing and blogging. I enjoy blogging because it gives me immense pleasure, allows me to express my opinion and helps me make new friends.
The blog I maintain is hugely important and beneficial to me. It benefits both me and the intended readers of the blog. On the one hand, it helps improve my writing skills as it requires lots of content writing. On the other hand, it enables me to explore relevant topics - both offline and online - and read extensively. I often use photos with my blog posts and for that, I had to sharpen my photography sense as well.
Sometimes I write on how-to and tutorials which are helpful for people looking for it. Other times, I write reviews on books I read, movies I watch, food I eat, and new things I learn. All these activities help me observe them from a different perspective rather than being just a reader, or learner. People can comment on the articles I add, and thus get to know what other people - and not just me - are thinking.
Model Answer 5:
Today I am going to talk about an activity that I do in my spare time. I will explain what the hobby is; how I became interested in it; how long I have been doing it; why it is important to me and what benefits it offers.
It is quite unusual! In my free time, I work at an Alpaca Farm! An alpaca is an animal that is kept for its fleece, they look a little bit like sheep but with a very long neck! They usually live in South America, but there is an Alpaca Farm near me in Sheffield and I work there at weekends. Although it is called an Alpaca Farm, in fact, there are lots of different animals there: horses; goats; sheep; some ducks and hens and even some llamas. I guess I became interested in this activity because I love animals.
Working with the alpacas and the other animals on the farm means I have to get there early in the morning. I help to feed the animals and clean up after them. Sometimes I have to drive a tractor to take hay and water out to the horses. Often there are visitors to the farm and I will give them a guided tour and introduce them to all the different animals. At some times of the year, I help with special jobs to care for them, such as giving injections to protect them from illnesses or trimming their toenails if they get too long. My favourite time of year to help is in the spring when baby Alpacas are born. New-born alpacas have to stand up very quickly and within hours are drinking milk from their mothers and running around – it is amazing to watch.
Although my hobby is unusual it is very important to me. It also offers many benefits. My full-time job is in indoors in an office and a lot of the time I am sitting down, so at weekends I like to get outside into the countryside and do some physical work that is completely different. I love animals, the fresh air and the exercise. I also really enjoy talking with the farm manager as he can tell great stories.
[Written by - Lucy Marris: Careers Adviser (UK), TEFL teacher (Vietnam)]
Sample Answer 6:
Introduction:
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to talk about a hobby that I genuinely enjoy. Here, I’d like to talk about photography, something that has become an important part of my life over the last few years.
How you became interested in it:
I first became interested in photography during a family trip to the mountains when I was in high school. One of my cousins brought a DSLR camera and showed me how to adjust the settings to capture different lighting and scenery. I was fascinated by how a simple change in angle or light could transform an ordinary moment into something quite special. That trip sparked my curiosity, and I’ve been exploring photography ever since.
How long you have been doing it:
It’s been about five years now since I began taking photography more seriously. Initially, I used my phone, but gradually I saved up and bought a mid-range digital camera. I now take photos regularly - whenever I travel, attend events, or even on quiet walks around the city. It’s become more than just a hobby; it’s a way for me to see the world differently.
Why you enjoy it:
I enjoy photography because it allows me to slow down and appreciate the little details in life. Many people rush through their day, but when I have a camera in my hand, I pay attention to things like colours, textures, and lighting. It also gives me a creative outlet to express myself. Each photo I take feels like a small story that I get to tell through my lens.
And explain what benefits you get from this interest or hobby:
There are quite a few benefits I’ve gained from photography. First, it’s improved my observation and patience, because good photography often requires waiting for the perfect moment. Second, it has enhanced my technical skills, as I’ve learned about editing software and how to work with different cameras. Finally, it’s connected me with a community of like-minded people online and even opened up some freelance opportunities, like photographing local events and portraits. More importantly, it brings me a great sense of joy, tranquillity and a sense of personal fulfilment.
Part 3: Details Discussion
Discussion topics: The social benefits of hobbies
Q. Do you think having a hobby is good for people’s social life? In what way?
Answer: Many people say that we humans are social beings, meaning we generally like to remain in the company of other people. From that point of view, hobbies certainly are a good way to fulfil people’s social life since it allows like-minded people to socialise and enjoy some quality time together whether they are riding a boat on a lake, cycling, playing soccer, or just strolling around the city on a beautiful afternoon. So, having a hobby, enjoying it alone or with others, is, again, a good thing because it allows them to present in a positive light in front of others.
Q. Are there any negative effects of a person spending too much time on their hobby? What are they?
Answer: Everything excessive is a bad thing, and therefore, we can say that spending too much time on hobbies is bound to have some negative effects on a person. One of those negative effects would be that he probably wouldn’t spend enough time taking care of his/her family members in a proper manner. Another negative effect would be that it would put some unnecessary strain on a person’s mind and body, thus probably making him or her sick as well. For example, fishing is a great hobby, but if we spend too much time fishing under the hot sun the whole day, it can make us sick, sooner or later.
Q. Why do you think people need to have an interest or hobby?
Answer: Many of us may not appreciate or even understand the importance of hobbies in our lives, but the truth is that having hobbies can actually help us in different ways. To begin with, hobbies can always challenge us to do different things in different ways, thus helping us develop new skills and abilities. Having hobbies can also free up our minds and bodies from the negative stress and feelings of our regular duties and responsibilities, both at work and in families. Finally, it can help us to be productive in our lives with our newly-found energy, confidence and self-esteem due to excelling and enjoying some hobbies.
Discussion topics: Leisure time
Q. In your country, how much time do people spend on work and how much time on leisure? Is this a good balance, do you think?
Answer: Most people in my country - like many other developing nations in the world - have to spend approximately 10-14 hours a day, on average earning their livelihoods. As a result, they do not have enough leisure time despite their best efforts and intentions. In a way, it is a good thing, financially, for them because it allows them a little bit of extra luxury and comfort. However, as far as the question of maintaining a good “work-life-leisure time” balance is concerned, the situation doesn’t exactly look very promising because they have only a little time to spend on leisure.
Q. Would you say the amount of free time has changed much in the last fifty years?
Answer: Yes, I would say that the amount of leisurely or free time has “decreased”, in the last fifty years, specifically, in my country. This change has been confirmed by many of my elderly family members who complain that nowadays, people have to work too much and too long because the costs have sky-rocketed in the last 5 decades. To meet the demand for additional living costs, people are left with no other choice but to work extra-long hours. Besides, people are working extra-long hours because they need additional money to buy that extra comfort and luxury in life.
Q. Do you think people will have 'more' or 'less' free time in the future? Why?
Answer: Nobody can really tell for sure what is exactly going to happen in future, but we can still make some predictions. And the prediction is that we are going to have less and less free time in future – free time that we use to socialise with our families and friends, as well as the time, we use, to enjoy those little things in life. We can easily predict such a future because we have already seen in the last 5 decades or so how busy we really have become in doing those “trivial” things of very little or almost no importance in the greater scheme of things, and there is no indication that future is going to be any different.
Tips for answering this cue card topic:
For this cue card topic, try to talk about a hobby or interest that you enjoy, and which is usually interesting. First, say the hobby or interests you have, and then give a brief description of this hobby. If this is an uncommon hobby, give a little background of this hobby and then say what it involves. Now say how you have become interested in this hobby.
For the second question, you can either say that you have had this hobby for a very long time (from your childhood) or you can say you have recently taken up this hobby. Some hobbies are related to childhood and some hobbies form when people get adults. Mention when you took this hobby and give a very brief description of how you started it. If this is a hobby that you solely do alone, mention that you do it alone and sometimes you share it with others if they are interested in it.
Now explain why you enjoy this hobby. Give two or three reasons here. The final question expects you to be able to describe the benefits of the hobby you are talking about. Some of the common benefits of a particular hobby can be defined as follows:
Why do you enjoy this hobby/ interest?
1. It brings me joy and a sense of fulfilment – Every time I engage in this hobby, I feel genuinely happy and content. It’s something I look forward to during my free time.
2. It allows me to express myself creatively – This hobby gives me a platform to be imaginative and original, especially when life gets too routine or stressful.
3. It helps me relax and clear my mind – After a long day, immersing myself in this activity helps me unwind and feel refreshed mentally.
4. It gives me a break from screens and technology – In today’s digital age, I really value this hobby because it allows me to disconnect from social media and focus on something tangible.
5. It has become a part of my identity – I’ve been doing this for so long that it feels like a natural extension of who I am. It defines a part of my personality.
6. I enjoy it because it’s nostalgic – It reminds me of my childhood or a specific period of life that I look back on fondly.
What benefits do you get from this hobby/ interest?
1. It improves my mental well-being – It helps reduce stress, anxiety, and even boosts my mood after a difficult day.
2. I’ve developed useful life skills through this hobby – For example, time management, patience, discipline, and/or problem-solving.
3. It connects me with like-minded people – I’ve made new friends and built great relationships through shared interest in this hobby.
4. It has opened up career opportunities – I never imagined that something I loved doing for fun would lead to freelance work or even a steady side income.
5. It enhances my knowledge and keeps me curious – I’m always learning something new, whether it’s a new technique, style, or trend related to my hobby.
7. It gives me a sense of accomplishment – Completing a project, improving a skill, or seeing personal progress feels extremely rewarding.
8. It adds balance to my life – While work or studies can be demanding, this hobby helps me maintain a healthy lifestyle and gives me something to look forward to.
9. It helps me stay physically fit – If the hobby involves movement or sports, it's a great way to stay in shape without feeling like it's a chore.
9. It sharpens my concentration and focus – Whether it’s playing an instrument, painting, or gardening, I become completely absorbed in what I’m doing.
Tip for IELTS Candidates: Choose two strong reasons and two clear benefits, and support each with an example or a short explanation. This will show the examiner your ability to expand ideas and use a range of vocabulary and grammar structures naturally.
Some of the interesting hobbies you can talk about:
1. Reading.
2. Coin collecting.
3. Painting and sketching.
4. Electronics.
5. Origami.
6. Embroidery.
7. Knitting.
8. Sculpting.
9. Sudoku.
10. Wood carving.
11. Fishing.
12. Kiteflying.
13. Mountain biking.
14. Photography.
15. Art collecting.
16. Judo.
17. Programming.
18. Fishkeeping.
19. Blogging.
20. Travelling.
21. Dancing.
22. Playing chess.
23. Playing the guitar.
24. Learning a new language.
25. Cooking.
26 Jogging.
27. Gardening, etc.
Whatever hobby you prefer to talk about, give an interesting description of this hobby and your involvement in it to make it a great speech.
Vocabulary for this Candidate Task Card / Cue Card topic:
Talking about a hobby or interest in IELTS Speaking gives you a chance to demonstrate personal engagement and fluency. The following vocabulary and expressions will help you describe your hobby clearly, talk about how it started, explain why you enjoy it, and highlight the benefits it brings to your life.
Passion project – A hobby or activity you deeply care about and invest time in.
Leisure activity – Something you do during your free time for enjoyment.
Pastime – An activity that someone regularly enjoys doing for fun.
Self-expression – The act of expressing your thoughts or personality through a hobby.
Creativity outlet – A way to express one’s imagination or artistic skills.
Stress reliever – Something that helps you relax and reduce mental tension.
Mentally stimulating – Engaging in a way that challenges your brain.
Therapeutic – Having a calming or healing effect on the mind.
Personal development – Growth in one’s knowledge, skills, or confidence.
Skill-building – The process of developing a specific ability through practice.
Time well spent – Time used in a productive or meaningful way.
Deeply rewarding – Bringing great satisfaction or joy.
Enriching – Adding value or depth to your life or knowledge.
Boost my mood – Make me feel happier or more energetic.
Fuel my curiosity – Encourage or increase my interest in learning more.
Discipline – The ability to consistently commit to a hobby or goal.
Focus and concentration – Mental skills that many hobbies help develop.
Social bonding – Connecting with others through shared interests.
Lifelong interest – A hobby or activity you plan to keep doing indefinitely.
Sense of fulfilment – A feeling of satisfaction and purpose that comes from doing something meaningful.
Your ability to talk about this cue card would enable you to talk about the following cue card topics as well:
1. Describe something you enjoy doing.
2. Describe how you spend your leisure time.
3. Describe a hobby that someone in your family has.
4. Describe a hobby that you think is interesting.
5. Describe a hobby that you particularly enjoy.
6. Describe a pastime activity that is popular in your country.
7. Describe an interesting activity that you would like to start.
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