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IELTS Speaking Part 2: IELTS Cue Card/ Candidate Task Card.

[The topic for your talk will be written on a card which the examiner will hand over to you. Read it carefully and then make some brief notes.]

Describe an outdoor activity that you haven't tried yet and would like to do in the future.

You should say:

• what outdoor activity it is
• why you have not tried it yet
• when you plan to do it

and explain why you are interested in doing this outdoor activity.

[Instruction: You will have to talk about the topic for one to two minutes. You have one minute to think about what you are going to say. You can make some notes to help you if you wish.]

Model Answer 1:
In this busy and complicated life, I have already tried different kinds of activities, whether they are indoor or outdoor. However, today I would like to talk about one particular outdoor activity, which I haven’t tried yet, but would definitely try in the future.  The name of this outdoor activity is “cycling”.

Not sure, when I became fond of “cycling”, but I guess that it might have something to do with the Tour de France cycling race back in 2018 which I saw for the first time on TV. Up until I saw that race, I had no idea that “cycling” could actually be such a fun and adventurous activity, which involved riding through some of the most beautiful flat, hilly and mountainous terrains of the world, by employing very impressive physical postures in an artful manner.

In fact, when I was following the “Tour de France” race, which started in France and then also venturing into the surrounding countries occasionally, I was struggling to decide whether to pay more attention to the cycling race itself or the beautiful terrains on its path. Anyway, I didn’t get to try this nice outdoor activity as yet because I haven’t yet managed to buy a bicycle, which I really like. Besides, I am yet to convince my close friends to join me in “cycling” as I don’t really like to do it alone.

Then, of course, managing a suitable time to enjoy this physical activity is also an issue because I remain fairly busy with my work and other priorities. However, I am planning to start working on enjoying this nice outdoor activity this summer which is due in a few months.

Anyway, I would like to try this outdoor activity, because it would allow me to free up my hands, legs and muscles, which have become rather ‘stiff’ lately due to the lack of physical exercises. Besides, cycling would help boost my mood by taking me close to the beautiful nature around me. Finally, this great outdoor activity would also allow me to socialize with my friends while also doing some physical exercises at the same time.

Model Answer 2:

Introduction:
Here, I'd like to talk about an outdoor activity that I haven't had the chance to try yet but would love to do in the future.

What outdoor activity it is:
The outdoor activity that I have in mind is paragliding. It involves flying through the air with a parachute-like canopy while being suspended from a harness below. It's an exhilarating sport that allows individuals to experience the thrill of soaring above the ground and taking in breathtaking aerial views.

Why you have not tried it yet:
The main reason why I haven't tried paragliding yet is due to the lack of opportunities and suitable locations in my area. While I have always been fascinated by the idea of flying like a bird and experiencing the sensation of freedom in the open sky, I haven't had the chance to pursue this activity due to the limited availability of paragliding facilities or training centres nearby.

When you plan to do it:
I am hopeful that I will have the opportunity to try paragliding in the near future, perhaps during an upcoming vacation or adventure trip to a destination known for its paragliding spots. I have been researching potential locations and have identified a few places that offer paragliding experiences with trained instructors and suitable flying conditions.

And explain why you are interested in doing this outdoor activity:
I am drawn to the idea of paragliding not only for the adrenaline rush and excitement it promises but also for the opportunity to conquer my fear of heights and experience a sense of liberation while soaring high above the ground. The prospect of gliding through the air, feeling the wind against my face, and marvelling at the panoramic vistas below is incredibly appealing to me.

Moreover, paragliding represents a unique blend of adventure, nature, and self-discovery, providing participants with a chance to challenge themselves both mentally and physically while immersing themselves in the beauty of the natural world. It's a thrilling outdoor activity that offers a sense of accomplishment and fulfilment, and I am eager to experience it firsthand.

Model Answer 3:

Where do I even begin? There are so many outdoor activities that I am attracted to but have not been able to take part in yet. However, skydiving, in my opinion, has been at the top of my list for ages! And I am quite positive that I will do it soon.

Why haven't I started it yet? Honestly, it's a mixture of things. Part of it is definitely the fear factor. Jumping out of a perfectly good plane doesn't exactly scream "relaxing afternoon," you know?

But here's the thing, there's this other part of me that's just dying to do it. Like, imagine the wind whipping past your face, the earth sprawled out beneath you like a map... just the feeling of complete weightlessness! Sounds terrifying, yes, but also incredibly exhilarating!

I believe that this summer will be a great time to do it. California skydiving season is calling my name. I'm gonna do all the training, prep myself mentally, and then just... jump - I believe.

Maybe it's the older I get, the more I realize life's too short to let fear hold you back. And hey, skydiving isn't just about the adrenaline rush, is it? It's about pushing your limits, trusting others, and experiencing the world in a whole new way. It feels like a metaphor for life itself, you know?

So yeah, the fear is real, but the desire to push past it, to grow, and to experience the world from a whole new perspective? That's even stronger. And that's why I'm jumping in - literally!

Idea generation for this Candidate task card/ Cue card topic:

This topic asks you to describe an outdoor activity that you have not tried yet but would like to do in the future. To give a strong response, you should mention what the activity is, why you haven’t tried it yet, when you plan to try it, and explain your interest or fascination with it. It’s important to focus on your motivation, expectations, and what makes this activity appealing to you personally. Here are a few ideas to help you structure your response:

1. Skydiving:
I’ve always wanted to try skydiving, but I haven’t had the courage or opportunity yet. The idea of jumping out of a plane and free-falling through the sky sounds both terrifying and thrilling. I hope to try it on my next trip abroad where it’s available. I'm drawn to it because it feels like the ultimate adventure and a powerful way to conquer fear.

2. Scuba diving:
Scuba diving has been on my bucket list for years, but I haven’t tried it because I live far from any diving-friendly oceans. I plan to try it during a future holiday to a coastal destination like Bali or the Maldives. I’m interested in exploring marine life and experiencing the peacefulness of the underwater world.

3. Paragliding:
Paragliding is an outdoor activity that fascinates me. I haven’t done it yet mainly due to safety concerns and lack of access to a location where it's offered. I’m planning to do it during a trip to a hill station next year. I think it would give me a bird’s-eye view of nature and an amazing feeling of freedom.

4. Mountain trekking:
I’ve never been on a real mountain trek, though I love hiking. I haven’t done it because it requires physical fitness and time, which I couldn’t manage earlier. I plan to go on a guided trek to the Himalayas after finishing my studies. The idea of reaching a summit after days of effort is something I find incredibly rewarding.

5. Bungee jumping:
Bungee jumping is something I find both scary and exciting. I haven’t tried it yet because of the fear involved and also because it’s not offered where I live. However, I hope to attempt it during a future trip to New Zealand. I’m curious to see how it feels to take such a bold leap - literally!

6. Hot air balloon ride:
A hot air balloon ride has always seemed like a magical experience, but I haven’t had the chance to try it yet. It’s usually expensive and available only in specific locations. I plan to try it in Cappadocia in Turkey someday. The scenic view from above and the gentle ride are what make it so appealing to me.

7. Desert safari:
I’ve always been intrigued by the idea of a desert safari. I haven’t done it yet as I haven’t visited a desert region. I’m planning a trip to Dubai where I hope to experience it. I think riding over sand dunes, watching traditional performances, and dining under the stars would be unforgettable.

8. White-water rafting:
White-water rafting looks incredibly exciting, but I haven’t tried it yet due to safety concerns and lack of training. I plan to try it during an adventure tour next summer. The idea of navigating through rough river currents thrills me, and I think it would be a great group activity too.

9. Rock climbing:
I’ve always admired people who do rock climbing. I haven’t tried it yet because I didn’t have access to training or climbing gear. But I’ve recently joined a fitness club that offers rock climbing walls, and I plan to try it soon. It looks physically demanding but very satisfying as a sport.

10. Camping in a remote forest:
Although I love nature, I’ve never done proper forest camping. Safety, time, and lack of equipment have held me back. I’m planning a trip with friends to a national park next winter where we’ll camp for a weekend. I look forward to the peace, starry nights, and the thrill of living close to nature.

Vocabulary for this Candidate task card/ Cue card topic:

When describing an outdoor activity you'd like to try, using adventurous vocabulary can effectively convey its nature, the reasons for past delays, your future plans, and your personal motivations. Thoughtful word choices will help you articulate the excitement and the anticipated experience, making your response both vivid and inspiring. Here are some relevant words and phrases:

Thrilling: – Causing a sudden feeling of excitement and pleasure.
Example: It looks like a thrilling activity, full of adventure.

Exhilarating: – Making one feel very happy, animated, or elated; thrilling.
Example: I imagine the experience would be incredibly exhilarating, a true adrenaline rush.

Adrenaline rush: – A surge of energy or excitement that you feel when you are doing something dangerous or exciting.
Example: I'm seeking that intense adrenaline rush that comes with pushing boundaries.

Push my limits: – To challenge myself to do something more difficult than I have done before.
Example: I want to try it to push my limits and see what I'm capable of.

Conquer a fear: – To overcome a strong feeling of dread or apprehension.
Example: Part of my motivation is to conquer a fear of heights/water.

A sense of accomplishment: – A feeling of pride and satisfaction from having achieved something.
Example: Completing it would undoubtedly give me a huge sense of accomplishment.

Immersive experience: – An experience that completely absorbs one's attention.
Example: I'm looking for a truly immersive experience in nature.

Equipped with: – Provided with the necessary items for a particular purpose.
Example: I need to ensure I'm properly equipped with all the necessary gear before trying it.

Steep learning curve: – A situation in which a lot has to be learned in a short period of time.
Example: I anticipate a steep learning curve, but I'm ready for the challenge.

Out of my comfort zone: – Outside one's usual or familiar environment, where one feels safe and confident.
Example: It's definitely an activity that would take me far out of my comfort zone.

Unforgettable adventure: – A memorable and exciting or unusual experience.
Example: I believe it would be an unforgettable adventure, creating lasting memories.

Connect with nature: – To feel a sense of closeness or harmony with the natural environment.
Example: It's a fantastic way to connect with nature on a deeper level.

Requires physical stamina: – Demands the ability to sustain prolonged physical or mental effort.
Example: I know it requires significant physical stamina, which I'm working on.

Seek new challenges: – To actively look for difficult tasks or situations that test one's abilities.
Example: I'm always eager to seek new challenges, and this activity fits perfectly.

If you prepare for the topic "Describe an outdoor activity that you haven't tried yet and would like to do in the future", you should be able to talk about the following topics as well:

1) Describe an outdoor activity that you did for the first time.
2) Describe a new sport or hobby that you would like to take up soon.
3) Describe something you have not done but would like to do in the future.
4) Describe something you did that was new or exciting.
5) Describe an interest or hobby that you enjoy.
6) Describe something you recently did that was so exciting for you.
 

• IELTS Cue Card
• IELTS Speaking
• Candidate Task Card

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