The ability to eloquently discuss influential people in our lives is a crucial skill for the IELTS Speaking test. This topic frequently appears in various forms across all parts of the speaking exam, making it essential for test-takers to be well-prepared. Let’s explore how to effectively approach this subject and maximize your score.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about people who have influenced you. Here’s a sample question with a suggested answer:
Question: “Who has had the biggest influence on your life?”
Sample Answer (Band 7-8):
“I’d have to say my grandmother has had the most profound impact on my life. She’s been a constant source of wisdom and support throughout my formative years. Her resilience in the face of adversity and her unwavering commitment to our family have truly shaped my values and outlook on life.”
Grandmother's influence in IELTS Speaking
Part 2: Long Turn
For this section, you’ll be given a cue card with a topic to discuss for 1-2 minutes. Here’s a sample cue card related to our theme:
Cue Card:
Describe a person who has had a significant impact on your life
You should say:
- Who this person is
- How you know this person
- What this person does
- And explain why this person has had such an impact on you
Sample Answer (Band 6-7):
“The person I’d like to talk about is my high school English teacher, Mrs. Johnson. I met her when I was 15 years old, in my first year of high school. She taught English literature and language arts.
Mrs. Johnson was not just a teacher; she was a mentor and an inspiration. Her passion for literature was contagious, and she had a unique way of making even the most complex texts accessible and exciting. She encouraged us to think critically and express our opinions freely.
What really set Mrs. Johnson apart was her belief in her students’ potential. She saw something in me that I didn’t see in myself at the time. She encouraged me to participate in writing competitions and debate clubs, which helped boost my confidence significantly.
The impact Mrs. Johnson had on my life is immeasurable. She ignited my love for literature and writing, which eventually led me to choose English as my major in university. More importantly, she taught me the value of self-belief and perseverance. Her support and guidance during those formative years shaped not only my academic path but also my personal growth.
Even now, years after graduating, I often find myself thinking about the lessons she taught us, both in literature and in life. Her influence continues to motivate me to strive for excellence in everything I do.”
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to discuss my mentor, Dr. Sarah Chen, a renowned marine biologist who has had a profound impact on my life and career trajectory. I first encountered Dr. Chen during my undergraduate studies when she delivered a compelling guest lecture on ocean conservation.
Dr. Chen is at the forefront of marine ecosystem research, specializing in coral reef restoration. Her groundbreaking work has not only contributed significantly to our understanding of marine biodiversity but has also influenced international policies on ocean protection.
The impact Dr. Chen has had on my life is multifaceted. Primarily, her passion for marine conservation ignited a similar fervor within me, steering my academic and career choices towards environmental science. Her innovative approach to combining scientific research with practical conservation strategies opened my eyes to the real-world applications of scientific knowledge.
Moreover, Dr. Chen’s mentorship has been instrumental in shaping my research skills and professional ethos. She instilled in me the importance of rigorous methodology, ethical considerations in scientific research, and the necessity of communicating complex scientific concepts to the general public effectively.
Perhaps most importantly, Dr. Chen has been a role model for women in STEM fields. Her resilience in the face of adversity and her unwavering commitment to her field, despite the challenges of being a woman in a male-dominated area, have been truly inspirational.
In essence, Dr. Chen’s influence extends far beyond the realm of academic guidance. She has shaped my worldview, instilled a sense of environmental responsibility, and empowered me to pursue my passion with determination and integrity. Her impact on my life serves as a testament to the profound influence a dedicated mentor can have on shaping not just a career, but a life’s purpose.”
Follow-up Questions:
- How do you think mentors can impact young people’s career choices?
- In what ways do you think teachers can inspire their students beyond academics?
Sample Answers:
Question 1 (Band 7-8):
“Mentors can have a significant influence on young people’s career choices in several ways. Firstly, they can provide valuable insights into different career paths, helping young individuals make more informed decisions. Secondly, mentors often serve as role models, inspiring young people to aspire to similar levels of success. Additionally, mentors can offer practical guidance on skill development and networking, which are crucial for career advancement.”
Question 2 (Band 8-9):
“Teachers can inspire students beyond academics by fostering critical thinking and encouraging creativity. They can instill important life values such as empathy, resilience, and integrity through their own actions and the discussions they facilitate in class. Furthermore, teachers can expose students to diverse perspectives and experiences, broadening their worldviews and inspiring them to think beyond their immediate surroundings. By recognizing and nurturing individual talents, teachers can also help students discover passions they might not have otherwise explored.”
Mentor's impact in IELTS Speaking
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In this section, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some sample questions and answers:
Question 1: “How do you think role models in society have changed over the past few decades?”
Sample Answer (Band 7-8):
“I believe role models in society have undergone a significant transformation over the past few decades. In the past, role models were often limited to local community leaders, politicians, or celebrities. However, with the advent of social media and increased global connectivity, we now see a much more diverse range of role models emerging.
Today, influencers on various platforms have become role models for many young people. This shift has both positive and negative aspects. On the positive side, it has democratized influence, allowing individuals from various backgrounds to inspire others. However, it also raises concerns about the authenticity and responsibility of these new role models.
Another notable change is the increasing recognition of role models who promote social causes or challenge societal norms. We’re seeing more emphasis on individuals who champion environmental issues, advocate for social justice, or break barriers in their fields. This reflects a broader societal shift towards valuing social responsibility and diversity.
Overall, I think this evolution in role models reflects our changing societal values and the way we consume information. While it presents new challenges, it also offers more opportunities for people to find relatable and inspiring figures to look up to.”
Question 2: “Do you think the impact of personal relationships on individual development is given enough importance in modern society?”
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“This is a complex issue that merits careful consideration. On one hand, there’s a growing awareness of the importance of mental health and emotional well-being, which inherently recognizes the significance of personal relationships. We see this reflected in the increasing popularity of relationship counseling, self-help literature focusing on interpersonal skills, and even workplace initiatives that prioritize team-building and emotional intelligence.
However, I would argue that in many aspects of modern society, the profound impact of personal relationships on individual development is still undervalued. Our education systems, for instance, tend to focus heavily on academic achievement and job preparation, often at the expense of teaching crucial interpersonal skills. Similarly, in the professional world, technical skills and individual productivity are often prioritized over one’s ability to build and maintain meaningful relationships.
Moreover, the rise of digital technology, while connecting us in unprecedented ways, has also led to what some sociologists call ‘social atomization‘ – a phenomenon where individuals become increasingly isolated despite being more connected. This paradox suggests that we might be losing sight of the quality and depth of personal relationships in favor of quantity and superficial connections.
That said, I believe there’s a growing countermovement that recognizes this imbalance. We’re seeing more emphasis on emotional intelligence in leadership training, mindfulness practices that encourage deeper connections, and a resurgence of interest in community-building initiatives. These trends suggest a dawning realization of the crucial role that personal relationships play in our development and overall well-being.
In conclusion, while I believe modern society is beginning to recognize the importance of personal relationships in individual development, there’s still significant room for improvement in fully acknowledging and nurturing this crucial aspect of human experience.”
Role models in modern society for IELTS Speaking
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
To elevate your speaking performance, incorporate these sophisticated words and phrases:
Profound impact /prəˈfaʊnd ɪmˈpækt/ (adj. + n.): A deep and significant effect
Example: “Her guidance had a profound impact on my career choices.”Instrumental /ˌɪnstrəˈmentl/ (adj.): Playing a crucial role in an event or process
Example: “His support was instrumental in helping me overcome my challenges.”To shape one’s worldview (phrase): To influence how someone perceives and interprets the world
Example: “My travels have significantly shaped my worldview.”Resilience /rɪˈzɪliəns/ (n.): The ability to recover quickly from difficulties
Example: “Her resilience in the face of adversity was truly inspiring.”To instill /ɪnˈstɪl/ (v.): To gradually but firmly establish an idea or attitude in a person’s mind
Example: “My mentor instilled in me a strong work ethic.”
Examiner’s Advice
To excel in discussing influential people in your IELTS Speaking test:
- Practice describing people’s qualities and actions in detail.
- Prepare personal anecdotes that illustrate the person’s impact on your life.
- Use a variety of sophisticated vocabulary and complex sentence structures.
- Focus on explaining ‘why’ and ‘how’ the person influenced you, not just ‘what’ they did.
- Be genuine in your responses – authenticity often leads to more fluent and engaging answers.
Remember, the key to a high score is not just in what you say, but how you say it. Aim for fluency, coherence, and a rich vocabulary to describe a person who is often in the news whom you would like to meet or any influential figure in your life.
By following these guidelines and practicing regularly, you’ll be well-prepared to discuss influential people in your life during your IELTS Speaking test. This skill will not only help you in the exam but also in describing a time when you had to learn from a mistake, as influential people often play a crucial role in our learning experiences.