This post contains ideas and band-9 sample answers (audio included) for the Cambridge IELTS 10 Academic Speaking Part 1 Question 1 Test 1 question:
“How do you usually spend your weekends? [Why?]”
Sample 1
For me, weekends are all about rejuvenating after a long week. I usually opt for a laid-back approach, spending my time at home, indulging in my favorite books, or catching up on TV series. It’s not the most adventurous routine, but it gives me a sense of tranquility that I truly cherish.
Sample 2
As someone deeply invested in fitness, I utilize my weekends for intensive workout sessions. My typical Saturday or Sunday involves a mix of cardio, strength training, and yoga. It’s demanding, I won’t deny, but it helps me maintain a healthy lifestyle and also boosts my mental well-being.
Sample 3
My weekends are typically bustling with social activities. I’m the kind of person who thrives on interaction and camaraderie. So, whether it’s a casual brunch with friends or a lively evening party, I try to fill my off days with as much human connection as possible. It’s a simple way to unwind and it keeps me in high spirits.
Sample 4
My weekends are often consumed by my quest to master the English language. I’ve set a target to be fluent, so I dedicate a good chunk of my free time to studying. I might spend hours engrossed in English novels, watching English movies to improve my listening skills, or participating in language exchange meetups to practice speaking. It keeps me intellectually stimulated and I believe it will open a plethora of opportunities for me in the future.
Sample 5
Weekends for me are usually about committing time to my side business. It’s a venture I’m really passionate about and I believe it holds the potential to create a substantive financial return in the future. The idea is not just to accumulate wealth, but to achieve a level of financial independence that could give me the freedom I desire.
Sample 6
Typically, my weekends are dedicated to cherishing the bond I share with my family. Given the demanding nature of my job, it’s often challenging to carve out quality time for my loved one during the weekdays. So, I make it a point to devote my off days to them, engaging in activities that we all enjoy and love.
Sample 7
Living in a bustling city, my weekends are typically planned as a much-needed escape. I usually drive out to the outskirts or a quiet rural area. These short trips provide a refreshing change of scenery and a chance to breathe in some fresh, unpolluted air. It’s a sort of stress-busting therapy for me, a perfect antidote to the week-long urban commotion.
Sample 8
I usually spend my weekends indulging in delicious meals, hanging out with friends at cozy coffee spots, or watching intriguing movies. The reason is quite simple: these activities provide me with the perfect blend of relaxation, socialization, and entertainment that I need after a hectic week. Plus, it’s a great way to keep my life balanced and enjoyable.
Sample 9
Typically, I spend my weekends taking a brief bus ride back to my family home from the university dormitory. I’m fortunate enough that my home is only about 50 to 60 kilometers away, which makes this commute quite manageable. I find solace in the familiarity of my home surroundings and the company of my family. This simple routine allows me to escape the academic intensity and refresh my mind for the coming week.
Sample 10
I often spend my weekends working at a local store. I took up this part-time job not just because I come from a financially-challenged family and need to afford my meals, but also because I believe in self-sufficiency. I find it enriching as it helps me grow as an individual and understand the value of money.




