The cue card
Describe an outdoor activity that you enjoy doing.
You should say:
- what the activity is
- where you do it
- who you do it with
- and explain why you enjoy it
Band 7 sample answer
An outdoor activity I really enjoy is hiking in the mountains. I go with a group of friends about once a month, usually to the hills near Tashkent, which are only two hours away.
We start early in the morning to avoid the heat, carry water and snacks, and follow marked trails. On the way we stop to take photos and enjoy the views, and at the top we have a picnic.
I enjoy hiking because it is a great workout, but it also clears my mind. When I am walking among trees with no phone signal, I forget my worries and feel calm.
I remember one trip in particular, when we reached the top just before sunset. The sky turned orange and pink, and the valley below looked like a painting. Nobody spoke for a few minutes, and I felt grateful that we had made the effort to climb up there.
Another reason is the company. Sharing a challenge with friends and cheering each other on makes our friendship stronger, and I always return home tired but truly happy.
About 180 words, roughly 1 minutes of natural speech.
Key vocabulary
- trail — a path for walking
- workout — a session of exercise
- breathtaking views — extremely beautiful scenery
- fresh air — clean, pleasant air
- challenging — difficult in an interesting way
- clear your mind — stop worrying
- scenery — natural views
Tips for this cue card
- Mention frequency and place.
- Explain physical and mental benefits.
- Add the social side.
Part 3 follow-up questions
Why do people enjoy outdoor activities?
Idea: They offer exercise, fresh air and a break from technology.
Are people spending less time outdoors?
Idea: Yes, particularly children, because of screens.
How can cities encourage outdoor activity?
Idea: By building parks, cycle paths and safe public spaces.
More discussion questions with full answers: IELTS Speaking Part 3 topics.
Study guides
How Is IELTS Scored in Speaking and Writing? Criteria, Weighting and Rounding
The short answer first, then the Speaking and Writing criteria tables, how Task 1 and Task 2 combine and how the overall band is rounded.
IELTS Speaking Band Descriptors Explained in Plain English
The IELTS Speaking test is marked on four criteria. Here is what each one means at bands 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9, with short examples you can compare with your own answers.
IELTS Speaking Part 2: How Many Minutes to Speak (With a Practice Timer)
How long Part 2 lasts (1 minute to prepare, 1–2 minutes to speak), a practice timer, a four-step structure and a model answer.