Speaking Sample Test
Part 1: Introduction & Interview
Q1
What do you usually like to do in your free time?
Sample response
In my free time, I usually like to do something low-pressure, like reading, going for a walk, or listening to music. If I have a bit more time, I might watch a film or try cooking something new. I think I enjoy activities that help me switch off mentally after a busy day.
Q2
How often do you spend time on activities you enjoy?
Sample response
I try to do something I enjoy pretty much every day, even if it’s only for half an hour. On weekdays it tends to be something simple, like reading before bed, but at weekends I can spend much longer on it. I’ve realised that if I don’t make time for it, I feel much more drained.
Q3
Did you have a favourite activity when you were a child?
Sample response
Yes, definitely. When I was a child, I was really into drawing, and I could spend hours doing it without getting bored. I used to sketch cartoon characters and little scenes from my imagination, which was great fun at that age.
Q4
Do you prefer doing things alone or with other people?
Sample response
It depends on the activity, to be honest. For things like reading or playing guitar, I prefer being alone because it helps me focus and relax. But if it’s something like going out, playing sports, or watching a film, I think it’s more enjoyable with other people.
Q5
Have your interests changed in recent years?
Sample response
Yes, quite a bit. A few years ago, I was more interested in fast-paced activities and going out a lot, whereas now I’m drawn to quieter hobbies. I think that’s mainly because my lifestyle has changed, and I value activities that help me recharge.
Q6
Is it easy for you to make time for relaxation during the week?
Sample response
Not always, especially in the middle of a busy week. Work or study can take over, so relaxation sometimes gets pushed to the side. Still, I try to build in small breaks, because even a short walk or a bit of music makes a difference.
Q7
Do you prefer activities that are creative or physical?
Sample response
I’d say I lean slightly more towards creative activities. I like anything that lets me express myself or concentrate on a small skill, like writing or music. Physical activities are important too, but I usually choose them more for health than for enjoyment.
Q8
Have you ever tried to learn a new skill for fun?
Sample response
Yes, I have. Not long ago, I tried learning the guitar just for fun, and it turned out to be much more rewarding than I expected. I wasn’t trying to become an expert or anything, but it was exciting to see small improvements over time.
Q9
What kinds of activities are popular among people your age?
Sample response
Among people my age, I’d say going to cafés, watching series, working out, and spending time on social media are all really common. A lot of people are also into short trips or casual hobbies like photography and gaming. It seems people want activities that are enjoyable but also easy to fit into a busy schedule.
Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)
Describe an activity you enjoy doing in your free time. You should say: - when you started doing it - how often you do it - why you enjoy it And explain what this activity adds to your life.
Sample response
One activity I really enjoy in my free time is playing the guitar. I started doing it a few years ago, during a period when I was spending a lot more time at home and wanted something productive but relaxing to focus on. At first, I was terrible, to be honest, and even changing between simple chords felt awkward, but I kept going. These days, I play it several times a week, usually in the evening or at weekends when I have a bit more time. I don’t always practise in a very serious way. Sometimes I learn a new song, and sometimes I just play a few familiar tunes that I already know. What stood out to me from the beginning was how calming it was. When I’m playing, I stop thinking about deadlines, messages, and all the little stresses of daily life. Another reason I enjoy it is that there’s always room to improve. Even if I only learn one small technique or manage one difficult part of a song, it still feels satisfying. I also like the fact that it’s both creative and personal, because I can play according to my mood. Overall, this activity adds a lot to my life. It gives me a sense of balance, helps me unwind, and reminds me that free time doesn’t have to be wasted. It can actually be something meaningful and enjoyable at the same time.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Q1
Why do some people find it difficult to spend time on enjoyable activities regularly?
Sample response
I think one of the main reasons is that many people feel guilty about taking time for themselves. They often see enjoyable activities as a luxury rather than something necessary, especially when they’re under pressure from work, study, or family responsibilities. Another issue is that modern life is full of distractions, so even when people have free time, they end up scrolling on their phones instead of doing something they genuinely enjoy. For example, someone might want to paint or play football, but after a long day they choose the easiest option, which is usually passive entertainment.
Q2
How important is it for children to develop interests outside school?
Sample response
I think it’s बेहद important for children to have interests beyond school, because education shouldn’t be limited to academic performance. Hobbies help them develop confidence, curiosity, and social skills in a much more natural way. For instance, a child who joins a music club or a sports team may learn teamwork, discipline, and persistence without even realising it. It also gives them a healthier sense of identity, because they begin to see themselves as more than just students taking exams.
Q3
Do you think people today have more or fewer opportunities for leisure than in the past?
Sample response
I’d say people today probably have more opportunities in theory, but not always in practice. There are far more options available now, such as online classes, fitness apps, hobby groups, and cheap entertainment, so access has definitely expanded. However, many people are so busy or mentally overloaded that they don’t fully make use of those opportunities. So compared with the past, the range of choices is wider, but the ability to enjoy them regularly may actually be weaker for some people.
Q4
How can enjoyable activities influence a person's mental health or overall well-being?
Sample response
Enjoyable activities can have a huge impact on mental health because they give people a break from pressure and routine. When someone does something they genuinely like, it can reduce stress, improve mood, and create a sense of achievement. For example, exercise may release tension, while creative hobbies like drawing or music can help people process emotions in a healthy way. In the long run, these activities can make life feel more balanced, which is essential for overall well-being.
Q5
In what ways can social media affect the activities people choose to do in their free time?
Sample response
Social media can influence people’s choices in both positive and negative ways. On the positive side, it exposes people to new hobbies they might never have considered, such as pottery, hiking, or cooking, and it can make these activities seem more accessible. On the other hand, it can push people towards trends rather than genuine interests, so they choose activities mainly because they look impressive online. A good example is when people take up something just to post about it, but lose interest quickly once the novelty disappears.