Table of Contents
Introduction
Talking about hobbies and interests is one of the most enjoyable ways to practice English. It helps you express your personality, share your passions, and connect with others in real-life conversations.
In this post, you’ll find fun and practical exercises to help you improve your vocabulary, speaking, and writing skills. These vocabulary and speaking activities are designed for students and teachers. They are perfect for both classroom use and self-study.
1. Multiple-Choice Exercise: Hobbies and Interests Vocabulary
Test your understanding of common hobby and interest words. Choose the correct answer for each definition.
2. Speaking Exercises: Talking About Hobbies
Now that you know the vocabulary, it’s time to use it! Practice these speaking activities to improve fluency and confidence.
Exercise 1: Pair Interview
Work with a partner and ask each other:
- What do you like to do in your free time?
- How often do you do it?
- Why do you enjoy it?
- Who do you usually do it with?
Then introduce your partner to the class:
“This is Sam. He enjoys playing football because it helps him stay active.”
Exercise 2: Find Someone Who…
Move around and find classmates who match the descriptions below:
- ✅ loves outdoor activities
- ✅ plays a musical instrument
- ✅ enjoys cooking
- ✅ likes reading novels
- ✅ is learning a new hobby
Ask follow-up questions to learn more!
Then, write a report about your partners’ hobbies and interests.
Exercise 3: Role-Play Conversation
Choose to be A or B:
A. Imagine you meet someone new at a social event. Use phrases like:
- “I’m really into…”
- “I started [hobby] when I was…”
- “It’s a great way to…”
Example:
“I’m really into photography. I started a few years ago, and I love capturing nature and people’s emotions.”
A. Express interest in your partner’s hobby and say what activities you like doing, when, and why:
“Oh that sounds interesting. I like photograpy, too. But I enoy fishing more. I go fishing on Sundays. It makes me feel relaxed.”
Exercise 4: Talking and Writing about Hobbies and Interests
Part A – Model Conversation
Read the short dialogue between Anna and Ben.
Anna: My favorite hobby is swimming. I started when I was a child, and I go to the pool twice a week. It keeps me fit and helps me relax.
Ben: That sounds great! I enjoy playing the guitar in my free time. I’ve been learning for about three years.
Anna: Wow, that’s interesting! How often do you practice?
Ben: Almost every day. It helps me forget stress and express myself through music.
Answer These Questions:
- Who likes swimming? When does he or she go to the pool? Why?
- Who loves playing the guitar? When does he or she practice it? Why?
Part B – Your Turn
Now, work with a partner. Take turns asking and answering questions about your hobbies and interests. You can use these prompts:
- What’s your favorite hobby?
- When did you start it?
- How often do you do it?
- Who do you usually do it with?
- Why do you enjoy it?
- How does it make you feel?
Part C – Write a Short Paragraph
After your conversation, write 5–7 sentences about one of your hobbies. Use this structure:
- Introduction: “My favorite hobby is…”
- Details: When you started, how often you do it, and with whom
- Reason: Why you enjoy it
- Closing: How it makes you feel
Example:
My favorite hobby is swimming. I started when I was a child and went to the pool twice a week. It keeps me healthy and helps me relax. I enjoy the feeling of moving in the water after a busy day.
Exercise 5: Compare Two Hobbies
Write about two hobbies — one you already do and one you’d like to try.
Example prompt:
- Compare reading books and learning photography. Which one do you prefer and why?
3. Group and Pair Work Ideas
Activity 1: Hobby Survey
Create a short class survey:
- What’s your favorite hobby?
- How often do you do it?
- Do you prefer solo or group hobbies?
Then share your results using simple sentences or charts.
Activity 2: Hobby Poster Project
In small groups, make a poster about different hobbies. Include:
- Pictures or drawings
- Short descriptions
- Reasons why people enjoy them
Display your posters in class or post them on a wall.
Activity 3: Hobby Guessing Game
Describe a hobby without naming it.
Your classmates must guess what it is!
Example:
- “You need a ball, and two teams compete to score goals.” → Soccer
FAQs: Hobbies and Interests Exercises
How do I write about my hobbies and interests?
To write about your hobbies and interests, start by naming the hobby you enjoy most. Then, explain when and how you started it, how often you do it, and why you like it. Finish by describing how it makes you feel. Use simple, clear sentences and try to give personal details.
Example:
My favorite hobby is reading. I started when I was young, and I read every night before bed. It helps me relax and learn new things.
What are some examples of hobbies and interests?
Here are some common examples of hobbies and interests you can mention:
– Reading
– Playing the guitar
– Swimming
Painting
– Cooking
– Traveling
– Dancing
– Playing football
– Gardening
– Photography
How do you write 10 sentences about your hobby?
To write 10 sentences about your hobby, expand your paragraph with more details. Include:
– When and why you started
– How you learned it
– Who inspired you
– Where you usually do it
– What you like most about it
– How it benefits you
– How it makes you feel
– Any goals you have for the future
Example (10 sentences):
“My favorite hobby is cooking. I started when I was 10 years old, helping my mother in the kitchen. I cook almost every weekend. My favorite dish to make is pasta. Cooking helps me relax after a busy week. I also enjoy trying new recipes from different countries. My friends love tasting my dishes. I often watch cooking shows to get new ideas. I hope to take a cooking class one day. Cooking makes me feel creative and happy.”
What is the 5 hobby rule?
The 5-hobby rule is a simple idea that suggests you should have:
– One hobby to make you money
– One hobby to keep you fit
– One hobby to be creative
– One hobby to build knowledge
– One hobby to relax and enjoy life
This balance helps you stay productive, healthy, and happy.
How can I practice talking about hobbies in English?
Practice with a partner by asking and answering questions about your hobbies. Use expressions like “I enjoy…” or “I’m really into…” to sound natural.
What are good writing exercises for hobbies?
Try short writing tasks about your favorite hobby, why you like it, or a new one you’d like to try.
How can teachers use these activities?
Teachers can combine vocabulary quizzes, speaking tasks, and writing exercises for a full lesson on hobbies and interests.
Check these Free Time Activities for Kids
