Mastering IELTS Speaking: How to Describe a Person Who Helped You Achieve a Personal Goal

The IELTS Speaking test often includes topics related to personal experiences and relationships. One common theme is describing someone who has made a significant impact on your life, particularly in helping you achieve a personal goal. This article will guide you through answering such questions effectively, providing sample responses and valuable tips to boost your IELTS Speaking score.

Understanding the Topic

The topic “Describe A Person Who Has Helped You Achieve A Personal Goal” is frequently featured in IELTS Speaking tests. It allows examiners to assess your ability to discuss personal experiences, express gratitude, and reflect on personal growth. Being prepared for this topic can significantly enhance your performance in the test.

IELTS Speaking Test

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about personal goals and the people who influence us. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:

1. Do you often set personal goals for yourself?

   Sample answer: “Yes, I frequently set personal goals for myself. I find that having clear objectives helps me stay motivated and gives me a sense of direction in both my personal and professional life. For instance, I recently set a goal to improve my public speaking skills, which has been quite challenging but rewarding.”

2. How do you typically go about achieving your goals?

   Sample answer: “When it comes to achieving my goals, I usually follow a structured approach. First, I break down the main goal into smaller, manageable tasks. Then, I create a timeline and set milestones to track my progress. I also believe in the power of accountability, so I often share my goals with friends or family members who can support and encourage me along the way.”

3. Can you give an example of a personal goal you’ve achieved recently?

   Sample answer: “Certainly! A personal goal I recently achieved was learning to play the guitar. I’ve always been passionate about music, and I decided to challenge myself by learning a new instrument. It took several months of consistent practice and dedication, but I’m now able to play some of my favorite songs, which is incredibly satisfying.”

Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)

In this section, you’ll be given a cue card with a specific topic and questions to address. Here’s a sample cue card related to our main topic:

Describe a person who has helped you achieve a personal goal.

You should say:

• Who this person is
• What your personal goal was
• How this person helped you
• And explain why their help was important to you

Sample answer:

“I’d like to talk about my high school math teacher, Mr. Johnson, who played a crucial role in helping me achieve my personal goal of improving my mathematical skills and confidence.

Mr. Johnson was an exceptionally dedicated and passionate educator who had been teaching mathematics for over two decades. My personal goal was to overcome my fear of mathematics and improve my grades in the subject, as I had always struggled with it and felt it was holding me back academically.

What set Mr. Johnson apart was his unique approach to teaching. He didn’t just focus on formulas and equations but took the time to explain the real-world applications of mathematical concepts. This made the subject more relatable and interesting to me. He also implemented interactive learning methods, such as group problem-solving sessions and math games, which made the learning process more engaging and less intimidating.

Moreover, Mr. Johnson went above and beyond his regular teaching duties. He offered additional tutoring sessions after school for students who needed extra help, and I took full advantage of these opportunities. During these sessions, he patiently worked with me, identifying my specific weaknesses and tailoring his explanations to address them.

His help was invaluable to me for several reasons. Firstly, he boosted my confidence by showing me that I was capable of understanding complex mathematical concepts when they were presented in the right way. Secondly, he instilled in me a growth mindset, teaching me that with effort and the right strategies, I could improve in any subject, not just math. Lastly, his support extended beyond academics; he became a mentor who encouraged me to believe in myself and pursue my goals with determination.

Thanks to Mr. Johnson’s guidance and support, I not only achieved my goal of improving my math grades but also developed a newfound appreciation for the subject. This experience taught me the profound impact a dedicated teacher can have on a student’s life, and it inspired me to approach challenges with a positive attitude and perseverance.”

Possible follow-up questions:

1. How has achieving this goal affected your life since then?
2. Do you think you would have achieved this goal without Mr. Johnson’s help?
3. Have you had the opportunity to help someone else achieve their goals in a similar way?

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

In this section, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:

1. How important do you think it is for people to have mentors or role models?

   Sample answer: “I believe having mentors or role models is incredibly valuable for personal and professional growth. These individuals can provide guidance, inspiration, and valuable insights based on their own experiences. Mentors often help us navigate challenges more effectively and can open doors to opportunities we might not have discovered on our own. Moreover, they can serve as a source of motivation and accountability, pushing us to strive for excellence and persist in the face of obstacles. However, it’s important to note that while mentors are beneficial, ultimately, personal drive and determination are crucial for achieving one’s goals.”

2. Do you think the role of teachers in helping students achieve their goals has changed in recent years?

   Sample answer: “Yes, I believe the role of teachers has evolved significantly in recent years. With the advent of technology and changing educational paradigms, teachers are no longer just transmitters of information. Instead, they’ve become facilitators of learning, helping students develop critical thinking skills and fostering a love for lifelong learning. Teachers now play a more holistic role in students’ development, focusing not just on academic achievement but also on emotional intelligence, adaptability, and digital literacy. They’re increasingly expected to personalize their teaching methods to cater to diverse learning styles and needs. Additionally, with the growing emphasis on mental health and well-being, teachers often take on the role of mentors and support systems for their students, helping them navigate personal challenges alongside academic ones.”

3. In what ways can companies or organizations help their employees achieve their personal goals?

   Sample answer: “Companies can support their employees’ personal goals in several ways. Firstly, they can offer professional development opportunities, such as workshops, training programs, or tuition reimbursement for further education. This not only helps employees achieve their goals but also benefits the company by enhancing the skills of their workforce. Secondly, implementing mentorship programs within the organization can provide valuable guidance and support to employees. Additionally, companies can promote a healthy work-life balance by offering flexible working hours or remote work options, allowing employees time to pursue personal interests. Another effective approach is to align company objectives with individual goals through personalized career development plans. Lastly, creating a supportive and inclusive company culture that values personal growth and celebrates individual achievements can significantly motivate employees to pursue and attain their goals.”

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

To enhance your IELTS Speaking performance, incorporate these advanced vocabulary items and phrases:

1. Instrumental (adjective) – /ˌɪnstrəˈmentl/ – serving as a means of pursuing an aim
   Example: “My mentor was instrumental in helping me achieve my career goals.”

2. To go above and beyond (phrasal verb) – to do more than is required or expected
   Example: “My teacher went above and beyond to ensure I understood the complex concepts.”

3. To instill (verb) – /ɪnˈstɪl/ – gradually but firmly establish an idea or attitude in a person’s mind
   Example: “My coach instilled in me the importance of perseverance and hard work.”

4. Pivotal (adjective) – /ˈpɪvətl/ – of crucial importance in relation to the development or success of something else
   Example: “Her advice played a pivotal role in my decision to pursue further education.”

5. To foster (verb) – /ˈfɒstə(r)/ – encourage the development of something, especially something desirable
   Example: “A good mentor fosters an environment of growth and learning.”

Examiner’s Advice

To excel in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when describing a person who has helped you achieve a personal goal:

1. Be specific: Provide concrete examples and details about the person and how they helped you.
2. Use a variety of vocabulary: Incorporate advanced words and phrases to demonstrate your language proficiency.
3. Show reflection: Discuss not just what happened, but how it impacted you and what you learned from the experience.
4. Practice fluency: Aim to speak smoothly and confidently, without long pauses or hesitations.
5. Engage with the examiner: Show enthusiasm for the topic and maintain good eye contact throughout the test.

Remember, the key to success in IELTS Speaking is not just about what you say, but how you say it. Confidence, clarity, and the ability to express your thoughts coherently are crucial factors in achieving a high score.

For more tips on acing your IELTS Speaking test, check out our article on how to deal with challenging deadlines, which can help you manage your time effectively during the exam.