IELTS Speaking · Part 3
Leisure and relaxation: IELTS Speaking Part 3 questions
Last updated 2 September 2026
In short
Leisure and relaxation is a common IELTS Speaking Part 3 discussion theme. After the Part 2 long turn, the examiner explores broader, abstract questions on the topic. This guide groups real practice questions from concrete to abstract, explains how to tackle each question type, and gives the vocabulary and linking language to answer with depth.
Discussion questions
The examiner usually opens the discussion with: "How do most people in your country like to spend their free time?", then works up from concrete to abstract.
Warm-up (concrete)
Why is it important for people to have time to relax?
Cause & effect
Development (societal)
Do you think people have more or less free time than in the past?
ComparisonIs modern life making it harder for people to switch off and relax?
OpinionWhat are the benefits of hobbies that people do with their hands?
EvaluationIs it possible to have too much free time?
Evaluation
Depth (abstract & hypothetical)
Should employers do more to help people balance work and rest?
OpinionHow might the way people relax change in the future?
SpeculationIf people had a much shorter working week, how would they use the time?
Hypothesis
Useful vocabulary for this theme
Band 7+ language for discussing leisure and relaxation.
- unwind after a long day
- relax once the day's work is done
- “I like to unwind after a long day with a good book.”
- recharge your batteries
- rest so you regain your energy
- “A quiet weekend away helps me recharge my batteries.”
- kill time
- pass idle time while waiting
- “I play games on my phone to kill time on the bus.”
- a change of scene
- a refreshing move to different surroundings
- “A short trip gives me a welcome change of scene.”
- take it easy
- relax and avoid exerting yourself
- “On Sundays I just take it easy at home.”