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C1 Speaking Sample Test: Hobbies & Interests

Posted on 28-09-2024 by theylem | 22 views

Part 1: Introduction & Interview (2-3 Minutes)

  1. Do you have any hobbies?
    Sample Answer:
    “Yes, I have a few hobbies. I love reading, especially fiction novels, because they allow me to escape reality and experience different worlds and perspectives. I also enjoy cooking and trying out new recipes, as it’s a creative outlet and a great way to relax after a long day.”

  2. Do you think hobbies are important? Why or why not?
    Sample Answer:
    “Absolutely, I think hobbies are important because they provide a way to unwind and disconnect from the stress of daily life. Hobbies also help people develop new skills, stay motivated, and bring a sense of balance to one’s routine. Engaging in activities you’re passionate about can significantly improve your mental well-being and overall quality of life.”

  3. Have your interests changed over time?
    Sample Answer:
    “Yes, my interests have evolved quite a bit. When I was younger, I was more into sports like basketball and soccer, but as I got older, I developed a love for more individual activities like yoga and meditation. I think it’s natural for hobbies to change as we go through different phases of life, and it’s always nice to discover new things you enjoy.”


Part 2: Long Turn (4 Minutes)

Prompt:
Describe a hobby that you particularly enjoy.

  • You should say:
    • What the hobby is
    • How often you do it
    • Why you enjoy it
  • And explain how you think this hobby benefits you.

Sample Answer:
“One hobby that I particularly enjoy is photography. I started getting into it a couple of years ago, and now I take my camera with me wherever I go. I try to take photos as often as possible, whether it's capturing the natural beauty of a park, taking candid shots of friends, or photographing interesting architecture when I travel. What I love about photography is the way it helps me see the world differently—it encourages me to notice the small details that I might otherwise overlook. It’s also very therapeutic and allows me to express myself creatively. I think photography benefits me because it improves my mindfulness, helps me relax, and provides a creative way to document memories.”

Follow-up Question:
Do you prefer hobbies that are creative or more physical?
Sample Answer:
“I think I prefer creative hobbies because they allow me to express myself and come up with something unique, like a photo or a piece of art. However, I do appreciate the benefits of physical activities, like hiking or yoga, as they help keep me fit and energized. A balance between both types of hobbies is probably best.”


Part 3: Collaborative Task (4 Minutes)

Task Prompt:
Here are some hobbies that people might enjoy. Talk together about how beneficial each hobby might be and decide which one you think is the most enjoyable.

  • Gardening
  • Playing a musical instrument
  • Volunteering
  • Learning a new language
  • Playing team sports

Sample Discussion Points:
Gardening is a great hobby because it’s relaxing and brings you closer to nature. There’s something very satisfying about growing your own plants or vegetables. However, playing a musical instrument can be incredibly fulfilling as well, as it allows you to be creative and develop a unique skill. What’s your take on volunteering as a hobby?”
“Volunteering is a very rewarding hobby because it not only helps others but also gives you a sense of purpose and fulfillment. I think learning a new language is also extremely beneficial as it broadens your cultural understanding and enhances your communication skills. If we had to choose the most enjoyable hobby, which one do you think it would be?”

Extended Answer:
“In my opinion, the most enjoyable hobby would be playing a musical instrument because it’s a form of self-expression and can be both therapeutic and fun. However, it really depends on a person's interests and what they find fulfilling. All of these hobbies have their own unique benefits.”


Part 4: Discussion (5 Minutes)

  1. Do you think hobbies should be productive, or is it okay for them to be just for fun?
    Sample Answer:
    “I think it’s okay for hobbies to be just for fun. While it’s great to have hobbies that are productive or help you develop a new skill, the main purpose of a hobby is to provide enjoyment and a break from the regular routine. If someone finds joy in a hobby that isn’t necessarily productive, that’s perfectly fine. The most important thing is that the hobby brings happiness and helps you relax.”

  2. How can people find a hobby that suits them?
    Sample Answer:
    “People can find a hobby that suits them by trying out different activities and seeing what they enjoy the most. It's helpful to think about what interests you—whether it's something artistic, outdoorsy, or intellectual—and start exploring activities within those areas. Joining a club or taking a class is a great way to try something new. It's also important to keep an open mind and not be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Sometimes, the best hobbies are discovered unexpectedly.”

  3. Do you think technology has influenced how people spend their leisure time?
    Sample Answer:
    “Yes, technology has definitely influenced how people spend their leisure time. With the rise of smartphones, social media, and streaming services, people now have more access to online hobbies like gaming, blogging, or watching series. While technology provides endless options for entertainment, it can also be distracting and sometimes takes time away from outdoor or physical activities. However, there are many hobbies that have benefited from technology, like online learning or digital art.”

Follow-up Question:
Do you think people have enough time for hobbies in today's busy world?
Sample Answer:
“Unfortunately, I think a lot of people struggle to find time for hobbies because of their hectic schedules and work commitments. However, I believe it’s important to make time for leisure activities, as they can help reduce stress and improve well-being. Even just dedicating a small portion of your day to something you enjoy can make a big difference in your quality of life.”


Key Vocabulary and Phrases

  1. Unwind: To relax and release tension after a period of stress or activity.

    • "Hobbies are a great way to unwind after a long day at work."
  2. Therapeutic: Having a healing effect on the mind or body; promoting relaxation.

    • "Engaging in a hobby like gardening can be very therapeutic."
  3. Self-expression: The expression of one’s thoughts, feelings, or personality through activities like art, music, or writing.

    • "Hobbies like painting are excellent for self-expression."
  4. Candid shots: Photographs taken spontaneously, without posing the subjects.

    • "I love taking candid shots of my friends when they’re not expecting it."
  5. Balance: A state of equilibrium or having time for various aspects of life, such as work, hobbies, and rest.

    • "Finding a balance between work and hobbies is important for a healthy lifestyle."
  6. Rewarding: Providing satisfaction, pleasure, or benefits.

    • "Volunteering is a rewarding hobby that helps you connect with others."
  7. Fulfillment: A feeling of satisfaction or happiness from doing something meaningful.

    • "Hobbies provide a sense of fulfillment and joy."
  8. Cultural understanding: The knowledge and appreciation of different customs, beliefs, and ways of life.

    • "Learning a new language can enhance your cultural understanding."
  9. Mindfulness: The practice of being present and fully engaged in the current moment.

    • "Hobbies like yoga and photography promote mindfulness and awareness."
  10. Hectic schedules: Very busy and full of activities or commitments.

    • "Many people struggle to find time for hobbies due to their hectic schedules."
  11. Creative outlet: A way to express creativity and imagination through an activity like art, music, or cooking.

    • "Cooking is a creative outlet that allows me to experiment with flavors."
  12. Intellectual: Involving thought, reasoning, and learning; often related to activities that stimulate the mind.

    • "Reading and learning new skills are intellectual hobbies."
  13. Outdoorsy: Interested in outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and sports.

    • "If you’re an outdoorsy person, hobbies like hiking might suit you."
  14. Escaping reality: Taking a break from everyday life and routines, often through activities like reading, watching movies, or daydreaming.

    • "Fiction books offer a way of escaping reality and exploring new worlds."
  15. Motivated: Driven to achieve something; having a strong reason or inspiration to do an activity.

    • "Hobbies can keep you motivated and add excitement to your life."
  16. Leisure activities: Activities done for relaxation and enjoyment during free time.

    • "Spending time on leisure activities is important for mental well-being."
  17. Document memories: Capturing moments through photos, videos, or writing to preserve them for the future.

    • "Photography is a great way to document memories from trips and special events."
  18. Digital art: Art created using digital technology, such as computer software or electronic devices.

    • "Many artists today create digital art using software like Photoshop or Procreate."