Of course! "New activities" is a very common and high-scoring topic in IELTS Speaking Part 1 and Part 2. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you tackle this topic effectively, with vocabulary, sample answers, and key strategies.

Part 1: General Questions

In Part 1, the examiner asks simple, direct questions about your life. Keep your answers concise but detailed enough (2-3 sentences).

Question 1: Do you like to try new things?

• Yes, I do. I'm generally quite open-minded and enjoy stepping out of my comfort zone. Trying new activities, whether it's a new cuisine or a new sport, brings a sense of excitement and helps me discover new interests.
• Not really. I'm a creature of habit, to be honest. I prefer sticking to what I know because it feels safe and comfortable. I don't see the need to constantly seek out new experiences.

Question 2: What new activities have you done recently?

• Well, the most recent one would be learning how to make sourdough bread. It was quite challenging at first, but I found the process of kneading the dough and waiting for it to rise incredibly therapeutic. Plus, the end result is delicious!
• I recently took up rock climbing for the first time. It was a bit intimidating at first, but with the help of an instructor, I managed to climb a few beginner routes. It was a great workout and a huge confidence booster.

Question 3: Do you think it's important for people to try new things?

• Absolutely. I believe trying new things is crucial for personal growth. It helps you build resilience, learn new skills, and see the world from a different perspective. It also prevents life from becoming monotonous.
• I see both sides. On one hand, trying new things can be enriching. On the other, I don't think it's essential for everyone. Some people find happiness and stability in their routines, and that's perfectly fine too.

Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)

This is where you need to tell a longer, more detailed story. Use the prompts to structure your answer.

Cue Card: Describe a new activity you tried that you enjoyed. You should say:

• What the activity was
• When and where you did it
• Who you were with
• And explain why you enjoyed it.

Sample Answer (Band 8-9 Level)

"A new activity that I absolutely loved and would recommend to anyone is pottery, specifically learning to throw on a wheel. I did this about a year ago, right in the heart of the city at a local community arts centre.

I went with a close friend of mine who had been talking about trying it for months. We decided to sign up for a beginner's workshop together, which was a great idea because it made the whole experience less intimidating and more fun. The workshop was a one-off session on a Saturday afternoon, lasting about three hours.

The reason I enjoyed it so much is multifaceted. Firstly, there was a real sense of mindfulness and focus involved. When you're sitting at the wheel with a lump of clay, all your attention is on the task at hand—the feel of the clay, the pressure of your hands, the speed of the wheel. It was a complete escape from the constant notifications and digital noise of daily life. Secondly, the process was incredibly therapeutic. There's something very primal and satisfying about shaping a formless material with your own hands. Even though my first few attempts ended up looking a bit lopsided and wobbly, the act of creating something, however imperfect, was deeply rewarding. Finally, I loved the tangible outcome. I have a slightly imperfect but unique mug on my desk now that I made myself. Every time I use it, it reminds me of that fun, creative afternoon and the simple joy of learning something new."

Part 3: Discussion

In Part 3, the examiner will ask more abstract and complex questions related to the Part 2 topic. This is where you can showcase your ability to discuss broader ideas.

Question 1: Why do you think some people are afraid to try new activities?

• "I believe the primary reason is fear of failure. Many people have a perfectionist streak and are worried they won't be good at something new, which can be a significant blow to their ego. It's the fear of looking foolish or incompetent in front of others. Additionally, there's the comfort of routine. Stepping into the unknown requires effort and can be stressful, so some people prefer the safety and predictability of their daily lives."

Question 2: How can schools or parents encourage young people to try new things?

• "Schools can play a pivotal role by offering a diverse curriculum that goes beyond academics. Introducing a wide range of extracurricular activities, from coding and drama to hiking and debate, allows students to discover hidden talents. For parents, the key is to lead by example. If parents are seen trying new hobbies or foods, their children are more likely to be open-minded themselves. Also, creating a supportive environment where mistakes are seen as learning opportunities, rather than failures, is crucial for building a child's confidence to explore."

Question 3: Do you think technology makes it easier or harder for people to try new activities?

• "That's a fascinating question. I think it's a double-edged sword. On one hand, technology makes it easier than ever. You can watch a YouTube tutorial to learn almost anything, from playing the guitar to fixing a leaky tap. You can find local clubs and meetups through apps, making it simple to connect with like-minded people. On the other hand, technology can also make it harder. The constant pull of social media and streaming services can keep us in a comfortable bubble, reducing the time and motivation we have to go out and experience the real world. So, it really depends on how individuals choose to use technology."

Vocabulary & Phrases to Use

To score higher, you need to use less common vocabulary and natural-sounding phrases.

Key Tips for a High Score

1. Tell a Story: Don't just list facts. In Part 2, build a narrative with a beginning, middle, and end. Describe the setting, the people, your feelings, and the outcome.
2. Be Specific: Instead of "I tried a new sport," say "I tried indoor rock climbing for the first time." Specific details make your answer more vivid and impressive.
3. Show, Don't Tell: Instead of saying "I was nervous," describe it: "My hands were a bit shaky as I put on the harness." Instead of saying "It was fun," explain why it was fun: "The feeling of reaching the top of the wall after all that effort was just incredible."
4. Use a Range of Tenses: Talk about the past (what you did), the present (how you feel about it now), and even the future (if you'd do it again or try something similar).
5. Connect Your Ideas: Use linking words like "Firstly," "Furthermore," "On the other hand," "As a result," and "That's not to mention..." to create a smooth, coherent flow.