Mastering IELTS Speaking: How to Describe a Person Who Inspires Positivity

The ability to describe a person who inspires positivity is a valuable skill in the IELTS Speaking test. This topic has been a recurring theme in past exams and is likely to appear in future tests due to its relevance to personal experiences and emotional intelligence. Let’s explore how to effectively tackle this subject and achieve a high score.

Tips for describing a time you made a positive change in your life in IELTS Speaking can also be applied when discussing inspirational figures who motivate positive changes.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about positivity and inspiration. Here’s a sample question with a suggested answer:

Examiner: Do you think it’s important to have positive people in your life?

Candidate (Band 8-9 response): Absolutely. I believe having positive individuals in our lives is crucial for our personal growth and well-being. These optimistic souls can uplift our spirits during challenging times and inspire us to strive for excellence. Their presence often acts as a catalyst for positive change, encouraging us to maintain a constructive outlook on life’s various situations.

Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)

Here’s a sample cue card related to the topic:

Describe a person who inspires you to be positive.
You should say:

• Who this person is
• How you know them
• What they do
• And explain why they inspire you to be positive

Sample Answer (Band 8-9)

I’d like to talk about my high school physics teacher, Mr. Johnson, who has been a constant source of inspiration for me. I first met him when I was 15, struggling with both the subject and my self-confidence.

Mr. Johnson stood out from other teachers due to his unwavering enthusiasm for physics and life in general. He had this remarkable ability to make complex concepts accessible through real-world examples and hands-on experiments. But what truly set him apart was his approach to failures and setbacks.

Whenever a student made a mistake or couldn’t grasp a concept, Mr. Johnson would frame it as an opportunity for growth. He often said, “Every error is a stepping stone to understanding.” This perspective shift was eye-opening for me. It taught me to embrace challenges rather than fear them.

Mr. Johnson inspires me to be positive because he embodies resilience and optimism. He showed me that maintaining a positive attitude isn’t about ignoring problems, but about approaching them with curiosity and determination. His influence extends far beyond physics; he taught me life skills that I apply daily.

Thanks to Mr. Johnson, I’ve learned to view obstacles as opportunities and to maintain an optimistic outlook even in difficult situations. His infectious positivity and belief in every student’s potential have left an indelible mark on my approach to life, inspiring me to spread positivity to others as well.

Inspiring teacher interacting with student

Follow-up Questions

Examiner: How do you think positive people handle difficult situations?

Candidate (Band 8-9 response): I believe positive individuals approach challenges with a unique perspective. They tend to view obstacles as opportunities for growth rather than insurmountable barriers. These people often employ problem-solving strategies that focus on solutions rather than dwelling on the problem itself. Moreover, they’re likely to maintain an optimistic outlook, believing in their ability to overcome difficulties, which in turn bolsters their resilience. This positive attitude often ripples out to those around them, creating a supportive environment that can make tackling tough situations more manageable.

Examiner: Do you think it’s possible to learn to be more positive?

Candidate (Band 8-9 response): Absolutely. I’m a firm believer that positivity is a skill that can be cultivated over time. It’s about developing a growth mindset and consciously reframing our thoughts to focus on the brighter side of situations. This could involve practices like gratitude journaling, mindfulness meditation, or simply surrounding oneself with uplifting people. It’s also crucial to acknowledge negative emotions while not letting them dominate our perspective. With consistent effort and practice, anyone can enhance their capacity for positive thinking and reap the benefits of a more optimistic outlook on life.

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

Examiner: How do you think society benefits from having positive role models?

Candidate (Band 8-9 response): Positive role models play a pivotal role in shaping society’s values and aspirations. They serve as beacons of hope, demonstrating that success and happiness are attainable through perseverance and ethical behavior. These individuals often inspire collective action towards social progress, motivating people to work together for the greater good. Moreover, positive role models can challenge societal norms and break down barriers, paving the way for more inclusive and equitable communities. Their influence can be particularly impactful on younger generations, providing them with tangible examples of how to navigate life’s challenges with grace and integrity.

Examiner: Do you think the media has a responsibility to promote positive messages?

Candidate (Band 8-9 response): Undoubtedly, the media wields significant influence over public opinion and social attitudes. As such, I believe it has a moral obligation to promote positive messages alongside its duty to report facts. This doesn’t mean sugar-coating reality, but rather striking a balance between reporting on challenges and highlighting solutions or inspiring stories. By showcasing examples of resilience, innovation, and human kindness, the media can foster a more optimistic societal outlook. This approach can empower viewers and readers to believe in their capacity to effect change, rather than feeling overwhelmed by negative news. However, it’s crucial that this positivity is grounded in authenticity and doesn’t come at the expense of honest, factual reporting.

Media's role in promoting positive messages

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

1. Unwavering enthusiasm /ʌnˈweɪvərɪŋ ɪnˈθjuːziæzəm/ (noun phrase): Constant and strong excitement or interest.
   Example: Her unwavering enthusiasm for environmental causes inspired many to join the movement.

2. Frame it as /freɪm ɪt æz/ (phrasal verb): To present or describe something in a particular way.
   Example: Instead of seeing failure as a setback, she framed it as a learning opportunity.

3. Perspective shift /pəˈspektɪv ʃɪft/ (noun phrase): A change in how one views or understands a situation.
   Example: Traveling abroad gave him a perspective shift on cultural differences.

4. Embody /ɪmˈbɒdi/ (verb): To represent an idea or quality in a clear and obvious way.
   Example: The team captain embodied the values of hard work and perseverance.

5. Infectious positivity /ɪnˈfekʃəs ˌpɒzəˈtɪvəti/ (noun phrase): An upbeat attitude that easily spreads to others.
   Example: Her infectious positivity brightened up even the most stressful workdays.

Examiner’s Advice

To excel in the IELTS Speaking test when describing a person who inspires positivity:

1. Use a variety of descriptive language to paint a vivid picture of the person and their impact on you.
2. Incorporate personal anecdotes to illustrate the person’s positive influence.
3. Practice speaking about different inspirational figures to broaden your vocabulary and improve fluency.
4. Focus on explaining ‘why’ this person inspires positivity, not just describing their actions.
5. Use linking words to connect your ideas smoothly and coherently.

Remember, authenticity is key. Describe a time when you had to navigate a difficult conversation can provide additional insights into expressing challenging experiences positively.

By following these guidelines and practicing regularly, you’ll be well-prepared to discuss inspirational figures and demonstrate your language skills effectively in the IELTS Speaking test.