Collecting things

Hello and welcome to IELTS TIME. I’m your host, and today we’re talking about a Part 1 topic: collecting things.

In this episode, you’ll hear two sample dialogues — one with Joseph and one with Ivanna— so you can listen to different ways of responding and get ideas for your own answers.

Let’s get started!

Do you collect anything at the moment?
No, not really. I used to collect small things like keychains and postcards, but these days I don’t actively keep a collection. I think my interests have become more practical as I’ve gotten older.

Have you ever collected coins as a hobby?
Yes, I did for a while. Whenever I traveled or a friend came back from abroad, I kept the coins because I found the different designs really fascinating. It wasn’t a serious collection, but it gave me a sense of curiosity about other cultures.

Did you ever save coins in a money box when you were younger?
Definitely. I had a little piggy bank, and I loved dropping coins into it. It was always exciting to open it after a few months and realize I had saved enough to buy something I wanted, like a toy or some sweets.

Why do you think people like to collect coins or stamps?
I think it’s because they’re small pieces of history. A coin or a stamp can tell you something about a country, its leaders, or its culture. For collectors, it feels like holding onto a story or a memory.

Why do people like collecting things in general?
Collecting gives people a sense of purpose and joy. It’s rewarding to add a new piece to a collection, and it can also be relaxing because it takes your mind off daily stress. For some people, it’s a way of expressing their personality.

What items are considered collectible in your country?
In my country, people often collect things like coins, stamps, antiques, and even comic books. More recently, things like sneakers and toys have become popular among younger people.

Is collecting a popular pastime in your country?
I’d say it used to be more popular than it is now. Older generations often enjoyed stamp or coin collecting, but nowadays young people tend to prefer hobbies like gaming or sports. Still, there are communities of collectors around.

What are the benefits of collecting?
One big benefit is that it teaches patience and attention to detail. Some collections also grow in value over time, which can be a bonus. But even if there’s no money involved, it’s simply enjoyable and can connect you with others who share the same interest.

Would you like to start collecting something new in the future?
Maybe. If I had more free time, I think I’d like to collect books, especially classic novels. There’s something really satisfying about having a shelf full of books you’ve chosen carefully.

Do you think collecting will be more or less popular in the future?
I think traditional collecting, like coins or stamps, might become less common because people are more focused on technology. But I believe the idea of collecting will always be around, whether it’s souvenirs from travel, fashion items, or even photos. People naturally like keeping things that matter to them.

That was Joseph — concise, natural, and balanced between personal experience and general ideas, just what examiners like. Now, let’s hear Ivanna’s answers, which are a bit more detailed and story-driven while still sounding natural.

Do you collect anything at the moment?
No, not really. I don’t actively collect anything right now. When I was a kid, I used to collect things like stickers or maybe comic books, but as an adult, I find myself more focused on experiences, like traveling or trying new hobbies, rather than accumulating physical items.

Have you ever collected coins as a hobby?
I’ve never really considered it a hobby, no. My grandfather was a big coin collector, so I’ve seen some impressive collections, but it wasn’t something I ever got into myself. I did have a jar where I’d keep all my loose change, but that was more about saving money for something I wanted, not about the coins themselves.

Did you ever save coins in a money box when you were younger?
Oh, absolutely. I think most kids do, don’t they? I had a little piggy bank and every time I got some spare change from my parents or a relative, I’d put it in there. It was a great way to save up for a new toy, some stationery, or craft supplies I wanted. It really taught me the value of saving from a young age.

Why do you think people like to collect coins or stamps?
I think for a lot of people, it’s about connecting with history. Coins and stamps often have images of historical figures or significant events, so collecting them is like having a piece of the past in your hands. There’s also the challenge of finding a rare item, which can be very exciting for a collector.

Why do people like collecting things in general?
I believe it’s a very human thing to do. Collecting can give people a sense of purpose and a feeling of control over their own little world. It’s also a way to hold on to memories. The items you collect can remind you of a specific time in your life or a special person who gave you something, so they have a lot of sentimental value.

What items are considered collectible in your country?
In my country, many things are popular to collect. Classic items like coins and stamps are always popular. But also things like sports memorabilia, vintage toys, books, and craft items are very common. It really depends on what someone is passionate about.

Is collecting a popular pastime in your country?
I would say so, yes. While it might not be a hobby for everyone, there are many people who are passionate collectors. You can find dedicated shops and online communities for different types of collectibles, which shows it’s a popular way for people to connect with others who share their interests.

What are the benefits of collecting?
Collecting offers several benefits. It can be a great way to learn about history or culture, depending on what you’re collecting. It can also be very relaxing and meditative. For some, it’s a creative outlet, and for others, it’s a way to meet new people who share their passion.

Would you like to start collecting something new in the future?
I’ve thought about it. I’m a big fan of music, so I’ve been considering starting a vinyl record collection. I think there’s something special about listening to music on a physical record—it’s a much more intentional experience than just streaming a song. It would be a fun way to connect with my favorite artists.

Do you think collecting will be more or less popular in the future?
I think the traditional form of collecting might become less popular, but the impulse to collect will probably always exist. People will always enjoy keeping things that matter to them, whether it’s souvenirs, craft items, or collectibles from hobbies. So, while what we collect might change, the hobby itself will never really disappear.

Ivanna’s answers are excellent because they’re detailed and story-driven. She uses personal anecdotes — like her grandfather’s coins and saving for toys or craft supplies — which makes her answers engaging and natural.

So, we’ve heard two very different but equally effective ways of answering — Joseph kept things short and clear, while Blondie gave more detailed, story-like answers.

Now, let’s step back for a moment. If you’re preparing for IELTS and the topic is collecting things, how should you approach it? Even if you don’t collect anything at all, there are a few concrete steps you can take so you’ll always have something to say.

First, build a “personal memory bank.”
Think about your past — did you ever collect anything, even casually? Coins in a piggy bank, stickers, shells, or maybe toys from childhood. Write down at least three examples you could talk about. Even if you don’t collect now, those little stories give you ready-made answers.

Second, prepare a “cultural angle.”
Make a quick list of what people in your country often collect — stamps, books, antiques, sports memorabilia, sneakers, or even digital things like photos or music playlists. These examples help you sound broader and show awareness beyond your personal life.

Third, create a “why list.”
Collectors usually have reasons: history, sentimental value, relaxation, or investment. Keep a short list of at least three reasons you can rotate into your answers. This way, you’ll always sound thoughtful and complete.

And finally, practice building mini stories.
Don’t just give one-word answers. Try attaching a short memory or opinion: “I used to collect postcards when I traveled because each one reminded me of a city I visited.” Practicing two or three little anecdotes like this will make your answers sound natural and personal.

So, to recap — your tangible takeaway today is this:
Jot down three personal examples, three things people collect where you live, and three reasons why people collect. That’s just nine items, but they’ll give you plenty of ideas whenever this topic comes up

Alright, let me actually show you how I would prepare for this topic, just to make it clearer. If I were getting ready for my IELTS test, here’s how I’d build my own little toolkit.

Step 1 – Personal memory bank.
When I was a kid, I collected stamps. Not because I was super serious about it, but because my uncle used to travel a lot and he always sent postcards. I’d cut out the stamps and keep them in a little notebook. Later on, I also collected movie tickets, just because I liked remembering which films I’d watched with friends.

Step 2 – Cultural angle.
In my country, lots of people collect things like old coins and comic books. Recently, sneakers have become really popular — young people love trading limited-edition shoes. There are also older collectors who focus on antiques or art.

Step 3 – Why list.
So, why do people collect? From what I see, one reason is nostalgia — it reminds them of a different time in their life. Another is curiosity — like with stamps, you learn about different countries. And finally, some people collect for investment, because rare items can become very valuable.

So if I put this all together, I could answer a question like “Do you collect anything at the moment?” with something like:

“Not at the moment, but when I was younger I collected stamps from postcards my uncle sent me. I wasn’t a serious collector, but I liked seeing all the different designs. These days, I prefer to collect memories instead, like keeping photos from my travels.”

See how that works? It’s not about whether you actually have a big collection now. It’s about having a few personal stories, a few cultural examples, and a few reasons ready to go.

And that’s it for today’s episode of IELTS TIME! Try building your own toolkit and practice saying your answers out loud.

Thanks for listening, and I’ll see you in the next episode!