In IELTS Speaking, describing a person who has a positive influence on others is a common topic that can appear in any part of the test. This theme allows examiners to assess your ability to discuss personal experiences, express opinions, and use a range of vocabulary related to personality traits and human relationships. Let’s explore how to tackle this topic effectively across all parts of the IELTS Speaking test.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In Part 1, you may be asked simple questions about influential people in your life. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:

Question: Who has had the biggest influence on your life?

Sample Answer: Without a doubt, my high school English teacher, Mrs. Thompson, has had the most significant influence on my life. She inspired me to pursue my passion for languages and instilled in me a love for literature that continues to this day.

Question: Do you think teachers have a big influence on students?

Sample Answer: Absolutely. Teachers can have a profound impact on their students’ lives. They not only impart knowledge but also shape character and foster critical thinking skills. A great teacher can ignite a lifelong passion for learning in their students.

Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)

Here’s a sample cue card related to describing a person who has a positive influence on others:

Describe a person who has had a positive influence on others.
You should say:

• Who this person is
• How you know this person
• What this person does
• And explain why you think this person has a positive influence on others

Sample Answer:

I’d like to talk about my uncle, James, who has had a remarkable positive influence on many people in our community. I’ve known him all my life, as he’s my father’s younger brother and has always been a close part of our family.

Uncle James is a social worker, specializing in youth counseling. He works tirelessly with at-risk teenagers, helping them overcome personal challenges and find their path in life. What makes him truly exceptional is his unwavering commitment to making a difference in these young lives.

I believe Uncle James has such a positive influence on others for several reasons. Firstly, he has an incredible ability to connect with people on a deep level. He’s an active listener and shows genuine empathy, which helps build trust with the teens he works with. Secondly, he leads by example. Uncle James is always volunteering for community projects and inspiring others to get involved. His infectious enthusiasm and can-do attitude motivate those around him to become better versions of themselves.

Moreover, he has a knack for spotting potential in people that they might not see in themselves. Many of the teenagers he’s worked with have gone on to achieve great things, crediting Uncle James for believing in them when no one else did. His positive outlook on life is truly contagious, and he has a way of lifting people’s spirits even in the toughest times.

In conclusion, Uncle James’s positive influence stems from his genuine care for others, his ability to inspire and motivate, and his unwavering belief in the potential of every individual. He’s a shining example of how one person can make a significant difference in the lives of many.

Person with positive influence

Follow-up Questions:

1. How has this person influenced your own life?

Sample Answer: Uncle James has profoundly impacted my own life in numerous ways. His dedication to helping others has inspired me to be more community-oriented and volunteer regularly. Additionally, his positive outlook has taught me to approach challenges with optimism and resilience.

2. What qualities do you think are important for someone to have a positive influence on others?

Sample Answer: I believe several qualities are crucial for having a positive influence. Empathy is paramount, as it allows one to understand and connect with others. Integrity is also vital, as it builds trust and respect. Additionally, passion and enthusiasm are infectious and can motivate others to pursue their goals.

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

In Part 3, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some possible questions and sample answers:

Question: Do you think social media influencers have a positive impact on society?

Sample Answer: That’s an intriguing question. Social media influencers can have both positive and negative impacts on society. On the one hand, many influencers use their platforms to raise awareness about important issues, promote charitable causes, and inspire their followers to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives. They can be powerful advocates for positive change.

However, there’s also a flipside to consider. Some influencers promote unrealistic lifestyle standards or endorse products without proper disclosure, which can negatively impact their followers’ self-esteem and financial decisions. It’s a double-edged sword, and I believe the impact largely depends on the individual influencer’s values and how they choose to use their platform.

Ultimately, I think it’s crucial for followers to approach social media content with a critical mindset and not be overly swayed by influencers’ opinions or lifestyles.

Question: In what ways can ordinary people have a positive influence on their community?

Sample Answer: There are numerous ways ordinary people can positively influence their communities. Firstly, volunteering for local organizations or participating in community events can make a significant impact. This not only helps those in need but also fosters a sense of belonging and unity within the community.

Secondly, individuals can lead by example in their daily lives. Simple acts of kindness, such as helping a neighbor or picking up litter, can inspire others to do the same, creating a ripple effect of positivity.

Moreover, sharing skills or knowledge through mentoring or teaching can empower others and contribute to the community’s overall growth. For instance, a retired teacher might offer free tutoring to underprivileged students, thus breaking the cycle of educational inequality.

Lastly, actively participating in local governance, such as attending town hall meetings or voting in local elections, allows individuals to have a say in decisions that affect their community. This civic engagement is crucial for creating positive change at a grassroots level.

In essence, it’s often the small, consistent actions of ordinary people that collectively create a significant positive influence on a community.

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

To achieve a high score in IELTS Speaking when discussing a person who has a positive influence on others, use these advanced vocabulary items and phrases:

1. To inspire /ɪnˈspaɪər/ (verb): To fill someone with the urge or ability to do or feel something.
   Example: “Her dedication to social justice inspires many young activists.”

2. Profound impact /prəˈfaʊnd ˈɪmpækt/ (noun phrase): A very significant or deep effect.
   Example: “The mentor’s guidance had a profound impact on the student’s career choices.”

3. To foster /ˈfɒstər/ (verb): To encourage the development of something.
   Example: “Good leaders foster an environment of creativity and innovation.”

4. Empathy /ˈempəθi/ (noun): The ability to understand and share the feelings of another.
   Example: “His empathy for others makes him an excellent counselor.”

5. Infectious enthusiasm /ɪnˈfekʃəs ɪnˈθjuːziæzəm/ (noun phrase): Excitement that spreads easily to others.
   Example: “The teacher’s infectious enthusiasm made even the most difficult subjects enjoyable.”

6. To lead by example (phrase): To influence others by one’s own behavior.
   Example: “He always leads by example, showing up early and working hard.”

7. Unwavering commitment /ʌnˈweɪvərɪŋ kəˈmɪtmənt/ (noun phrase): Steady and persistent dedication.
   Example: “Her unwavering commitment to the cause inspired many to join the movement.”

8. To instill /ɪnˈstɪl/ (verb): To gradually but firmly establish an idea or attitude in a person’s mind.
   Example: “Parents play a crucial role in instilling values in their children.”

Expert Advice for IELTS Speaking Success

To excel in the IELTS Speaking test when describing a person who has a positive influence on others:

1. Use specific examples: Provide detailed anecdotes to illustrate the person’s positive influence.

2. Employ a range of advanced vocabulary: Incorporate the key phrases and words listed above naturally in your responses.

3. Show enthusiasm: Your tone and manner should reflect genuine admiration for the person you’re describing.

4. Structure your answers: Use discourse markers (e.g., firstly, moreover, in conclusion) to organize your thoughts clearly.

5. Practice regularly: Record yourself answering sample questions and listen back to identify areas for improvement.

6. Stay relevant: Always keep your answers focused on the question asked, avoiding unnecessary digressions.

7. Develop your ideas: Don’t just state facts; explain your thoughts and opinions in depth.

By following these tips and using the sample answers as inspiration, you’ll be well-prepared to discuss people who have a positive influence on others in your IELTS Speaking test. Remember, the key is to speak naturally and confidently while showcasing your English language skills.

For more IELTS Speaking tips, check out our guides on how to describe a time you felt very happy in IELTS Speaking and how to describe a time you achieved something important in IELTS Speaking.