Describing an inspiring person is a common topic in IELTS Speaking tests. This theme allows examiners to assess your ability to articulate personal experiences, express admiration, and discuss influential figures. Let’s explore how to excel in this topic with expert tips and sample answers.
Understanding the Task
Before we dive into specific examples, it’s crucial to understand what the examiner is looking for when asking about an inspiring person. They want to evaluate your:
- Vocabulary range related to personal qualities and achievements
- Ability to express admiration and explain why someone is inspiring
- Skill in providing relevant details and examples
- Fluency in discussing abstract concepts like inspiration and influence
Inspiring Person
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, you might encounter questions like:
- Do you have any role models?
- Who do you admire in your family?
- What qualities do you think make a person inspiring?
Let’s look at a sample answer for the first question:
Examiner: Do you have any role models?
Candidate: Absolutely! I’d say my biggest role model is Michelle Obama. She’s not just the former First Lady of the United States, but also a brilliant lawyer and advocate for education. What I find truly inspiring about her is how she uses her platform to empower young people, especially girls, to pursue their dreams. Her eloquence and grace under pressure are qualities I really admire and try to emulate in my own life.
This answer demonstrates:
- Specific vocabulary related to admiration: “role model”, “inspiring”, “admire”
- Clear reasons for choosing this person
- Personal connection to the inspiring qualities
Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)
Here’s a sample cue card on this topic:
Describe a person who is very inspiring to you.
You should say:
- Who this person is
- How you know about this person
- What achievements this person has made
- And explain why you find this person inspiring
Here’s a sample answer:
The person I’d like to talk about is Malala Yousafzai, the Pakistani activist for female education and the youngest Nobel Prize laureate. I first learned about her through international news coverage of her courageous stand against the Taliban’s efforts to deny girls education in her region.
Malala’s achievements are truly remarkable. Despite facing life-threatening circumstances, she continued to advocate passionately for girls’ right to education. Her unwavering commitment led to her being shot by the Taliban, but she survived and persevered. She went on to write a best-selling book, speak at the United Nations, and establish the Malala Fund to support education initiatives worldwide.
What I find most inspiring about Malala is her extraordinary courage and unwavering dedication to her cause. At such a young age, she demonstrated incredible resilience in the face of extreme adversity. Her ability to forgive those who tried to silence her and her continued efforts to bring education to underprivileged girls around the world are truly awe-inspiring.
Malala’s story reminds me that one person, regardless of age or circumstances, can make a significant impact on the world. Her determination and eloquence in speaking out for what she believes in have inspired millions, including myself, to stand up for our rights and the rights of others. She embodies the idea that education is not just a right, but a powerful tool for changing lives and societies.
Possible follow-up questions:
- How has Malala’s story influenced your own life?
- Do you think young people can be as inspiring as adults?
- What qualities do you think make Malala such an effective leader?
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Examiner: Do you think society needs inspiring figures? Why or why not?
Candidate: I firmly believe that society does need inspiring figures, for several reasons. Firstly, these individuals often serve as catalysts for change. They can challenge the status quo and motivate others to take action on important issues. For example, climate activist Greta Thunberg has inspired millions of young people worldwide to demand action on climate change.
Secondly, inspiring figures can provide hope and direction, especially during challenging times. Their stories of overcoming adversity or achieving remarkable goals can give people the courage to persevere in their own lives. This is particularly important for younger generations who are still forming their identities and aspirations.
However, it’s also crucial to recognize that inspiration can come from everyday people as well. While high-profile figures can have a wide-reaching impact, we shouldn’t overlook the profound influence of teachers, community leaders, or even family members who inspire those around them on a more personal level.
In conclusion, I think inspiring figures, both famous and ordinary, play a vital role in motivating positive change and personal growth in society. They remind us of our potential and encourage us to strive for better, both individually and collectively.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
To achieve a high score in IELTS Speaking when describing an inspiring person, use these advanced vocabulary items and phrases:
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Trailblazer /ˈtreɪlbleɪzər/ (noun): A person who is the first to do something; an innovator.
Example: “Marie Curie was a trailblazer in the field of radioactivity.” -
Visionary /ˈvɪʒənəri/ (adjective): Having original ideas about what the future will or could be like.
Example: “Steve Jobs was known for his visionary approach to technology.” -
Philanthropist /fɪˈlænθrəpɪst/ (noun): A person who seeks to promote the welfare of others, especially by donating money to good causes.
Example: “Bill Gates has become a renowned philanthropist, focusing on global health issues.” -
Perseverance /ˌpɜːsɪˈvɪərəns/ (noun): Persistence in doing something despite difficulty or delay in achieving success.
Example: “Nelson Mandela’s perseverance in the face of adversity is truly inspiring.” -
Charismatic /ˌkærɪzˈmætɪk/ (adjective): Exercising a compelling charm that inspires devotion in others.
Example: “Martin Luther King Jr. was a charismatic leader who moved millions with his speeches.” -
To overcome adversity (phrase): To succeed in dealing with or defeating difficult situations or problems.
Example: “Malala Yousafzai’s ability to overcome adversity and continue her advocacy work is remarkable.” -
To leave a lasting legacy (phrase): To have a long-term impact that continues after one’s lifetime.
Example: “Marie Curie’s discoveries left a lasting legacy in the field of science.” -
To break new ground (phrase): To do something that has not been done before; to innovate.
Example: “Elon Musk continues to break new ground in space exploration and sustainable energy.”
Examiner’s Advice
To score high in the IELTS Speaking test when describing an inspiring person:
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Prepare diverse examples: Have a range of inspiring figures in mind, from different fields and backgrounds.
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Focus on specific qualities: Don’t just list achievements; explain why these qualities are inspiring to you personally.
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Use advanced vocabulary: Incorporate sophisticated words and phrases naturally in your responses.
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Provide personal insights: Connect the inspiring person’s qualities or actions to your own life or society in general.
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Practice fluency: Work on speaking smoothly and confidently about abstract concepts like inspiration and influence.
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Develop your ideas: In Part 3, be prepared to discuss broader themes related to inspiration and role models in society.
By following these tips and using the sample answers as a guide, you’ll be well-prepared to discuss inspiring people in your IELTS Speaking test. Remember, the key is to express your thoughts clearly, use a range of vocabulary, and provide specific examples to support your points.
For more tips on acing the IELTS Speaking test, check out our guide on how to describe a place where you feel at peace in IELTS Speaking. This will help you diversify your speaking skills across different topics.