The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about personal experiences and relationships. One common topic is describing someone who has supported you during challenging times. This article will guide you through answering such questions effectively, helping you achieve a high band score in your IELTS Speaking test.
Understanding the Topic
The topic “Describe a person who has helped you through a tough time” is frequently featured in IELTS Speaking tests. It allows examiners to assess your ability to discuss personal experiences, express emotions, and use appropriate vocabulary related to relationships and support. This topic is likely to remain relevant in future tests due to its universal nature and the opportunity it provides for candidates to demonstrate their language skills.
IELTS Speaking Test Scenario
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about support and relationships. Here’s an example question with a suggested answer:
Question: Do you think it’s important to have supportive friends?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I believe having supportive friends is crucial. They can help us during difficult times and make our lives more enjoyable. Good friends are there to listen and offer advice when we need it.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely. I firmly believe that having a strong support network of friends is indispensable in life. Supportive friends not only provide emotional comfort during challenging times but also enhance our overall well-being. They serve as a sounding board for our ideas and concerns, offering valuable perspectives that can help us navigate life’s complexities more effectively.
Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)
Cue Card:
Describe a person who has helped you through a tough time
You should say:
- Who this person is
- What the tough time was
- How this person helped you
- And explain why their help was important to you
Band 6-7 Answer:
The person who helped me through a tough time was my high school teacher, Mrs. Johnson. The difficult period was when I was struggling with my studies and feeling very stressed about my upcoming exams.
Mrs. Johnson noticed that I was having problems and offered to help me after school. She spent extra time explaining difficult concepts and helped me develop better study strategies. She was patient and encouraging, which boosted my confidence.
Her help was important because it not only improved my grades but also taught me how to handle stress better. Thanks to her support, I was able to pass my exams with good scores and feel more confident about my abilities.
Band 8-9 Answer:
The individual who proved instrumental in helping me navigate a particularly challenging period in my life was my high school English teacher, Mrs. Elizabeth Johnson. The arduous time I’m referring to was during my final year of high school when I was grappling with severe anxiety and self-doubt regarding my academic performance, particularly in relation to the looming final exams.
Mrs. Johnson, with her keen observation skills, quickly discerned my struggle and took it upon herself to offer assistance. She went above and beyond her regular duties, dedicating her time after school hours to provide me with one-on-one tutoring sessions. During these sessions, she not only elucidated complex literary concepts but also imparted invaluable study techniques that significantly enhanced my learning efficiency.
What truly set Mrs. Johnson apart was her unwavering patience and her ability to instill confidence in me. She consistently reinforced the idea that I was capable of achieving excellence, which gradually eroded my self-doubt and replaced it with a sense of self-assurance.
The importance of Mrs. Johnson’s help cannot be overstated. Her support was pivotal not just in terms of improving my academic performance, but also in reshaping my approach to challenges. The study skills and stress management techniques she taught me have proven to be invaluable assets throughout my academic journey and beyond. Moreover, her belief in my abilities served as a catalyst for personal growth, teaching me the importance of perseverance and self-belief in the face of adversity.
Follow-up Questions:
- How do you usually show gratitude to people who help you?
Band 6-7 Answer:
I usually thank people verbally when they help me. Sometimes, I might buy them a small gift or treat them to a meal to show my appreciation. I also try to help them in return when I can.
Band 8-9 Answer:
I believe in expressing gratitude in both tangible and intangible ways. Verbally, I make it a point to articulate my appreciation specifically, highlighting how their assistance has impacted me positively. I also believe in the power of written appreciation, often penning heartfelt thank-you notes. For more significant help, I might reciprocate with a thoughtful gift that aligns with their interests or by offering my assistance in areas where I can be of value to them. Ultimately, I strive to cultivate a culture of mutual support and gratitude in my relationships.
- Do you think people are less willing to help others nowadays compared to the past?
Band 6-7 Answer:
I don’t think people are less willing to help others now. While our lives are busier, technology has made it easier to connect and offer support. Many people still volunteer and donate to charities, showing that the desire to help others is still strong.
Band 8-9 Answer:
I would contest the notion that people today are less inclined to help others compared to previous generations. While it’s true that modern life can be hectic and demanding, I believe the willingness to assist others remains a fundamental aspect of human nature. In fact, technological advancements have facilitated new avenues for offering support, such as online crowdfunding platforms and virtual volunteering opportunities.
Moreover, we’re witnessing a surge in social consciousness, particularly among younger generations, who are increasingly engaged in social causes and community service. This suggests that the spirit of altruism is very much alive, albeit manifesting in ways that may differ from traditional forms of assistance.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Question: How has the concept of community support changed in recent years?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Community support has changed a lot recently. With social media and the internet, people can now get help from others all around the world, not just their local community. Online forums and support groups have become popular for sharing advice and experiences. However, face-to-face interactions in local communities are still important for many people.
Band 8-9 Answer:
The concept of community support has undergone a significant transformation in recent years, largely due to technological advancements and shifting social dynamics. The traditional notion of community support, which was primarily localized and face-to-face, has expanded to encompass a global network of individuals connected through digital platforms.
One of the most notable shifts is the rise of online communities that transcend geographical boundaries. These virtual spaces have become invaluable resources for individuals seeking support, advice, or simply a sense of belonging. They offer the advantage of anonymity for those discussing sensitive issues and provide access to a diverse range of perspectives and experiences.
However, this digital evolution has not entirely supplanted traditional forms of community support. In fact, we’re seeing a resurgence of interest in local, grassroots initiatives. Many people are recognizing the importance of tangible, in-person connections and are actively working to strengthen their local community ties. This has led to an interesting hybrid model of community support, where individuals leverage both online and offline resources to meet their needs.
Another significant change is the increased emphasis on mental health support within communities. There’s a growing recognition of the importance of emotional well-being, leading to the establishment of more support groups, counseling services, and mental health awareness programs at the community level.
Lastly, the concept of community support has become more inclusive and diverse. Communities are increasingly acknowledging and addressing the unique needs of different groups, including minorities, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people with disabilities. This shift towards greater inclusivity is fostering more robust and comprehensive support systems that cater to a wider range of community members.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
Instrumental /ˌɪnstrəˈmentl/ (adjective): Important in making something happen.
Example: Her advice was instrumental in my decision to pursue further studies.Discern /dɪˈsɜːn/ (verb): To perceive or recognize something.
Example: A good teacher can discern the potential in their students.Elucidate /ɪˈluːsɪdeɪt/ (verb): To explain or make something clear.
Example: The professor elucidated the complex theory in simple terms.Pivotal /ˈpɪvətl/ (adjective): Of crucial importance.
Example: His support played a pivotal role in my recovery.Catalyst /ˈkætəlɪst/ (noun): Something that causes an important event to happen.
Example: Her encouragement was the catalyst for my career change.Articulate /ɑːˈtɪkjuleɪt/ (verb): To express thoughts or feelings clearly.
Example: She articulated her ideas clearly during the presentation.
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when describing a person who has helped you through a tough time:
Use a variety of vocabulary and avoid repetition. Incorporate idiomatic expressions and advanced vocabulary where appropriate.
Provide specific examples and details to support your points. This demonstrates your ability to elaborate and gives depth to your responses.
Practice speaking about personal experiences and emotions. This will help you articulate your thoughts more fluently during the test.
Work on your pronunciation and intonation. Clear pronunciation and natural intonation contribute significantly to your overall score.
Develop your ideas fully. Don’t just give short, simple answers, especially in Parts 2 and 3 of the test.
Listen carefully to the questions and address all parts of the cue card in Part 2.
Remember, consistent practice and exposure to English are key to improving your speaking skills. Consider joining IELTS speaking practice groups or finding a study partner to enhance your abilities. Additionally, reflecting on personal experiences of resilience can help you prepare for similar topics. You might find our article on describing a person who has inspired resilience helpful for further practice.
By following these tips and continuously working on your English skills, you’ll be well-prepared to excel in your IELTS Speaking test.