When it comes to IELTS Speaking, being able to eloquently describe someone who is supportive of others is a valuable skill. This topic is not only common in everyday conversations but also frequently appears in IELTS Speaking tests. In this guide, we’ll explore effective strategies and provide sample answers to help you excel in describing a supportive person during your IELTS Speaking exam.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, the examiner may ask you general questions about supportive people in your life. Here’s a sample question with a suggested answer:
Question: Do you have any supportive people in your life?
Sample Answer:
“Absolutely. I’m fortunate to have several supportive people in my life. My mother, in particular, stands out as an incredibly supportive figure. She’s always been there for me, offering encouragement and practical help whenever I need it. Whether I’m facing academic challenges or personal dilemmas, she’s my go-to person for advice and support. Her unwavering belief in my abilities has been a constant source of motivation throughout my life.”
Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)
Cue Card:
Describe a person who is very supportive of others.
You should say:
- Who this person is
- How you know this person
- What this person does to support others
- And explain why you think this person is so supportive
Sample Answer:
“I’d like to talk about my colleague, Sarah, who is exceptionally supportive of everyone around her. I’ve known Sarah for about three years now, as we work together in the same marketing department.
What sets Sarah apart is her innate ability to empathize with others and offer support in various ways. She’s always willing to lend an ear when someone is going through a tough time, providing a safe space for colleagues to share their concerns without fear of judgment. Moreover, Sarah goes above and beyond in her support by offering practical assistance whenever possible. For instance, when a team member is struggling with a project, she’ll often volunteer her time to help them brainstorm ideas or review their work.
One of Sarah’s most admirable qualities is her knack for boosting morale. She consistently recognizes and celebrates her colleagues’ achievements, no matter how small. This positive reinforcement creates a nurturing environment where everyone feels valued and motivated to do their best.
I believe Sarah is so supportive because of her genuine care for others’ well-being. It’s evident that she derives joy from seeing others succeed and grow. Her supportive nature seems to stem from a deep-seated belief in the power of community and collaboration. By lifting others up, she not only helps individuals but also contributes to a more positive and productive workplace overall.
Sarah’s supportive attitude has had a profound impact on our team dynamics. Her presence has fostered a culture of mutual support and encouragement, making our office a more enjoyable and effective place to work. Her actions serve as a constant reminder of the importance of supporting one another, both professionally and personally.”
Follow-up Questions:
- How has this person’s support affected you personally?
Sample Answer: “Sarah’s support has had a significant impact on my professional growth. Her encouragement has boosted my confidence, enabling me to take on more challenging projects. Moreover, her constructive feedback has helped me refine my skills and become a more effective marketer. On a personal level, her supportive nature has inspired me to be more empathetic and helpful towards others, both in and out of the workplace.”
- Do you think being supportive is an innate trait or can it be learned?
Sample Answer: “While some people may have a natural inclination towards being supportive, I firmly believe that it’s a skill that can be cultivated and improved over time. Like any other interpersonal skill, being supportive requires practice and conscious effort. By developing empathy, active listening skills, and a genuine interest in others’ well-being, anyone can become more supportive. It’s about making a conscious choice to be there for others and consistently acting on that commitment.”
Supportive colleague in office
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Examiner: What qualities do you think make someone a supportive person?
Sample Answer: “There are several key qualities that I believe contribute to making someone truly supportive. First and foremost, empathy is crucial. The ability to put oneself in another’s shoes and understand their feelings and perspective is the foundation of being supportive.
Secondly, active listening skills are essential. A supportive person doesn’t just hear words; they listen attentively, ask clarifying questions, and provide thoughtful responses. This shows that they value the other person’s thoughts and feelings.
Another important quality is reliability. Supportive individuals are consistently there for others, not just when it’s convenient for them. They follow through on their promises and can be counted on in times of need.
Additionally, non-judgmental acceptance is vital. Supportive people create a safe space where others feel comfortable being vulnerable without fear of criticism or ridicule.
Lastly, I’d say that patience is a key attribute. Supportive individuals understand that everyone has their own pace and journey, and they’re willing to provide ongoing encouragement without pushing too hard.
These qualities combined create an environment of trust and comfort, allowing the supported person to feel valued, understood, and empowered.”
Examiner: How do you think the role of supportive relationships has changed in modern society?
Sample Answer: “The role of supportive relationships in modern society has undergone significant transformations, largely due to technological advancements and changing social dynamics.
On one hand, technology has expanded our capacity to offer support. Social media platforms and messaging apps allow us to stay connected with friends and family across vast distances, providing instant access to emotional support and advice. This has been particularly evident during global crises, such as the recent pandemic, where digital connections became a lifeline for many.
However, this digital shift has also presented challenges. The ease of online communication sometimes leads to superficial interactions, potentially diminishing the depth and quality of supportive relationships. There’s a risk of confusing digital connectivity with genuine emotional connection.
Another notable change is the increasing recognition of mental health issues in society. This has led to a greater emphasis on supportive relationships, not just in personal spheres but also in professional settings. Many workplaces now prioritize creating supportive environments, acknowledging the link between employee well-being and productivity.
Moreover, the evolving family structures in modern society have reshaped supportive networks. With more people living away from extended families, friend groups and communities often take on greater supportive roles that were traditionally filled by family members.
In conclusion, while the fundamental importance of supportive relationships remains unchanged, their form and delivery have adapted to our modern context. The challenge now lies in balancing the benefits of widespread connectivity with the need for deep, meaningful supportive interactions that truly nurture our well-being.”
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
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Empathize /ˈempəθaɪz/ (verb): To understand and share the feelings of another.
Example: “A supportive friend can empathize with your struggles without judgment.” -
Go above and beyond (idiom): To do more than is required or expected.
Example: “Sarah always goes above and beyond to help her colleagues succeed.” -
Nurturing environment (noun phrase): A setting that encourages growth and development.
Example: “A supportive manager creates a nurturing environment for their team.” -
Profound impact (noun phrase): A deep and significant effect.
Example: “Her support had a profound impact on my confidence and career progression.” -
Constructive feedback (noun phrase): Helpful and specific comments about how to improve.
Example: “Offering constructive feedback is a key aspect of being supportive in a professional context.”
Tips from an IELTS Speaking Examiner
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Practice regularly: Engage in conversations about supportive relationships to build fluency and confidence.
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Expand your vocabulary: Learn and use a variety of words and phrases related to support and relationships.
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Develop your ideas: Don’t just list points; explain and illustrate your thoughts with examples.
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Use personal experiences: Drawing from your own life adds authenticity to your responses.
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Listen carefully: Ensure you fully understand the question before answering, especially in Part 3.
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Stay calm and composed: Remember, the examiner is there to assess your language skills, not to trick you.
By incorporating these strategies and using rich vocabulary, you’ll be well-prepared to discuss supportive relationships in your IELTS Speaking test. Remember, practice makes perfect, so keep honing your skills!
For more tips on acing your IELTS Speaking test, check out our guide on how to describe a person who is very good at handling stress in IELTS Speaking. It provides additional insights that can complement your ability to describe supportive individuals.
