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Watching sports is more than just a form of entertainment. It helps us relax, reduce stress, and connect with others who share the same passion. For candidates who love sports and have some background knowledge, the topic “Describe a sport you enjoyed watching” is a great opportunity to score high in the IELTS Speaking test.

This article offers you presentation ideas, sample answers, and vocabulary to boost your confidence and performance.

1. Topic Analysis – Describe a Sport You Enjoyed Watching or Playing – IELTS Speaking Part 2

Describe a sport you enjoyed watching 

You should say:

  • What sports programs do you like to watch

  • When you watch it

  • Who do you watch with

  • And explain why you like watching it.

describe a sport you enjoyed when you were young

2. Sample Outline – Describe a Sport You Enjoyed Watching (Example: Football)

In the IELTS Speaking Part 2 test, you will be given a specific topic and have 1 minute to prepare before presenting for about 1-2 minutes. This part of the test assesses your ability to speak continuously, use diverse vocabulary and complex sentence structures. Don't forget to refer to the IELTS Speaking band score to understand the examiner's scoring criteria, and at the same time improve your weak skills.

Below is an outline and sample arguments you can refer to for the IELTS Speaking Part 2 test - Topic: Describe a sport you enjoyed watching - Football:

What sports programs do you like to watch:

  • Football, a game that's celebrated globally for its blend of strategy, skill, and sheer excitement.

  • A sport that epitomizes teamwork, endurance, and the thrill of competition

  • Every match is a new story, unfolding with unpredictable twists and turns

When you watch it: 

  • The World Cup season, a time when the sport transcends boundaries and united fans worldwide.

  • I make it a point to catch as many games as possible, often rearranging my schedule to ensure I don't miss the key matches.

Who do you watch with:

  • I often watch with a diverse group of friends and fellow enthusiasts

  • We gather at local sports bars or at each other's homes, creating an atmosphere buzzing with anticipation and camaraderie. 

  • The shared passion for the sport strengthens our bonds and often leads to lively discussions and an exchange of perspectives.

And explain why you like watching it:

  • Football is more than a mere sport to me, it's a source of endless excitement and a platform for social interaction.

  • Sport brings people together, creates lasting memories, and ignites conversations that are unparalleled. 

  • Its universal appeal lies in its simplicity and the raw emotions it evokes

3. Sample Answer – Describe a Sport You Enjoyed Watching – IELTS Speaking Part 2

Cue Card: Describe a sport you like to watch on TV

There is something inherently captivating about tennis, a sport I truly enjoy watching. Whether it is Wimbledon or the US Open, tennis provides me with not just entertainment but also inspiration and mental clarity.

I usually watch matches in my study room, where I have a cozy setup that allows me to focus entirely on the game. The quiet environment helps me immerse myself in the action and analyze every serve, rally, and point.

Most of the time, I watch tennis alone. It gives me a peaceful break from my daily routine and allows me to admire the players' techniques, mental toughness, and agility without distractions.

What I love most about tennis is the blend of athleticism and strategy. It demands not just physical fitness but also mental resilience and quick thinking. Every point is a test of concentration and composure.

Tennis also reflects values such as sportsmanship, grace under pressure, and the pursuit of excellence. Watching professional players overcome tough moments teaches me valuable life lessons about discipline and determination.

In summary, tennis is more than just a sport for me. It is an experience that combines excitement, learning, and personal growth.

High-scoring Vocabulary:

  • Inherently captivating

  • Source of inspiration and excitement

  • Immerse myself in

  • Agility

  • Mental resilience

  • Tactical intelligence

  • High-stakes situations

  • Composure and dignity

  • Pursuit of excellence

4. Sample Answers – Describe a Sport You Enjoyed Watching – IELTS Speaking Part 3

Q: What are the benefits of exercise?

Exercise offers many benefits. It improves physical health by enhancing cardiovascular strength and building muscle mass. It also helps prevent chronic illnesses like heart disease and diabetes. Beyond physical gains, it supports emotional well-being and reduces stress. Regular workouts boost mood, energy, and even social connections, especially when done in group settings. This helps people expand their social circle and avoid loneliness.

Q: What is the difference between watching sports on TV and watching it live?

Watching sports on TV is convenient and provides close-up views, replays, and commentary. However, watching live at the stadium is a different experience altogether. The energy of the crowd, the chants, and the shared emotions create a sense of camaraderie that television cannot replicate. Being physically present brings an unmatched emotional connection to the game.

Q: What sports programs do people like to watch in your country?

In Vietnam, soccer is the most popular sport to watch. Whether it is cheering for the national team or following international tournaments like the World Cup or the Premier League, the passion is intense. People of all ages gather to celebrate victories and analyze plays, showing how deeply soccer is rooted in our culture.

5. Vocabulary for the Topic: Describe a Sport You Enjoyed Watching

General Vocabulary:

Word / Phrase

Meaning

Sports-oriented

Focused on sports

Maneuver

A skilled movement

Friendly match

A non-competitive game

Track record

Past performance or achievements

Well-regarded

Respected or well known

Once-in-a-lifetime

Unique and rare experience

Sportsmanship

Fair and respectful behavior in sport

Competitiveness

Drive to compete and succeed

Training sessions

Practice sessions

Idioms and Collocations:

Expression

Meaning

Thrill and excitement

Feelings of joy and energy

Physically demanding

Requiring physical effort

A cut above

Better than others

Give one’s all

Try your best

Recharge one’s batteries

Take time to rest and recover

Competitive nature

Natural desire to compete

Do wonders for

Provide great benefits

Agility and dexterity

Speed and skill in movement

Speak with Confidence and Expand Your IELTS Vocabulary with IDP

We hope this article helps you approach the topic "Describe a sport you enjoyed watching" effectively. The IELTS Speaking test can be challenging, but with thorough preparation, vocabulary practice, and sample structures, you can perform confidently and impress the examiner.

At IDP, you can choose between IELTS Academic Speaking and IELTS General Speaking depending on your goals. We offer flexible test schedules and let you select your preferred Speaking test date.

Register for your IELTS test with IDP today!

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About this Article

Published on 26 July, 2024

About this Author

One Skill Retake - IELTS Australia
Quynh Khanh

Tôi là Quỳnh Khanh - Content Writer có hơn 5 năm kinh nghiệm về lĩnh vực giáo dục