LESSON 1 : HOBBIES AND FREE TIME

Here’s an expanded version of the IELTS Speaking Part 1 answers using the vocabulary provided:

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**1. Do you have any hobbies?**

Yes, I have several hobbies that I enjoy in my leisure time. Reading is one of my favorite pastimes,
especially fiction books. It helps me unwind and lets me escape into different worlds, which is refreshing
after a long day. Besides that, I also enjoy going for walks in the park and doing a bit of cooking now and
then. These hobbies allow me to relax and recharge, helping me maintain a good work-life balance.

Vâng, tôi có một số sở thích mà tôi thích trong thời gian rảnh rỗi. Đọc sách là một trong những thú tiêu
khiển yêu thích của tôi, đặc biệt là sách viễn tưởng. Nó giúp tôi thư giãn và cho phép tôi lạc vào những
thế giới khác, thật sảng khoái sau một ngày dài. Bên cạnh đó, tôi cũng thích đi dạo trong công viên và
thỉnh thoảng nấu ăn một chút. Những sở thích này cho phép tôi thư giãn và nạp lại năng lượng, giúp tôi
duy trì sự cân bằng tốt giữa công việc và cuộc sống.

**2. Do you prefer going out on your own or with friends?**

It depends on my mood, really. If I want to boost my energy levels and have a good time, I prefer going
out with friends. Being around them, laughing, and chatting helps me unwind and forget any stress. But
sometimes, I just need a bit of quiet time to clear my mind. In those moments, I enjoy going out alone,
maybe taking a walk or visiting a cafe, so I can fully relax and refresh myself at my own pace.

**3. Which hobby would you like to try in the future?**

In the future, I’d love to try hiking. I think it would be an amazing way to explore nature, boost my
energy levels, and stay fit. Plus, I’ve heard it’s a great way to unwind and refresh yourself, especially
when you’re surrounded by beautiful scenery. I believe hiking could help me not only enjoy the
outdoors but also improve my mental well-being.

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**PART 1:**
**1. Do you enjoy listening to music in your free time?**

Absolutely! Listening to music is one of my favorite ways to unwind and relax. I often listen to different
types of music depending on my mood, and it really helps me refresh my mind after a busy day.
Sometimes, I even put on some calming music while doing other tasks—it makes everything feel easier
and more enjoyable.

**2. What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?**

In my leisure time, I enjoy reading, cooking, and taking walks. These activities are a great way to refresh
myself and maintain a work-life balance. I find that spending a bit of time on these hobbies helps me
clear my mind and gives me more energy to focus on my work or studies afterward.

**3. What does your family enjoy doing together during the holidays?**

During the holidays, my family and I love spending quality time together. We usually go on short trips or
have special family meals. It’s a great way to unwind, connect, and make wonderful memories. Spending
time together like this is important to us, as it strengthens our bond and lets us relax away from our
usual routines.

**4. How often do you hang out with your friends?**

I try to hang out with my friends at least once a week. It’s a great way to refresh my mind and boost my
energy levels. We usually go out for coffee, watch a movie, or just chat about everything happening in
our lives. These moments help me unwind and keep me motivated.

**5. Do you like to spend your free time with family or friends?**

I like to spend my free time with both family and friends, but it depends on the situation. Spending time
with family is comforting, and it allows us to connect and support each other. On the other hand, being
with friends can be exciting and really boosts my energy levels. So, I try to balance my time between
both to maintain good relationships.
**6. What hobbies have you picked up lately?**

Recently, I’ve started practicing meditation. I’ve found it to be a wonderful pastime for unwinding and
clearing my mind. It’s simple but effective, and I feel refreshed after just a few minutes of meditation. I
believe it helps me maintain a positive mindset and reduces my stress.

**7. What leisure activities are popular in your country?**

In my country, people enjoy various leisure activities like going to cafes, playing sports, or going on
weekend trips with friends and family. These activities help people unwind, maintain a work-life
balance, and enjoy their free time. Parks are also popular places for families to gather and relax.

**8. What’s the best time of the day to engage in outdoor activities?**

I think early morning or late afternoon is the best time for outdoor activities. It’s cooler and the air feels
fresh, which makes it more enjoyable. Plus, engaging in outdoor activities at these times gives a great
boost to my energy levels and helps me feel refreshed for the rest of the day.

**9. Would you consider turning your hobby into your profession? Why or why not?**

Yes, I would consider it if it was something I’m really passionate about and could help me maintain a
good work-life balance. For example, if I could turn my love for reading or writing into a career, I think
I’d enjoy it a lot. However, I believe some hobbies should remain as pastimes, as they allow me to
unwind without any pressure.

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**EXTRA PRACTICE**

**1. Would you prefer to hang out with your friends or stay at home when you have free time?**
It really depends on how I’m feeling. If I want to relax and recharge, I prefer staying at home and
enjoying some quiet time. But if I feel like I need a boost of energy, hanging out with friends is perfect.
Socializing with friends helps me unwind and brings a lot of fun into my day.

**2. What was your favorite pastime when you were a child?**

As a child, my favorite pastime was drawing. I loved creating little stories and characters, and it was a
great way to express myself. I found it relaxing and enjoyable, and it allowed me to let my imagination
run wild.

**3. Do you prefer to spend your free time alone or with others?**

I enjoy both, depending on my mood. Spending time alone helps me unwind, think, and refresh my
mind, while spending time with others is more exciting and helps me feel connected. I think having a
balance between the two is important.

**4. How do you usually spend your weekend?**

On weekends, I like to catch up on sleep, spend quality time with family or friends, and do something
relaxing like reading or going for a walk. These activities help me unwind and give me the energy to start
a new week refreshed.

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These answers are longer and provide more detail, while still using the vocabulary effectively. This
added depth can help you demonstrate a strong command of English in an IELTS speaking test.