Mastering IELTS Speaking: How to Describe a Family Member You Admire

The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about family and personal relationships. One common topic that frequently appears is describing a family member you admire. This article will guide you through answering such questions effectively, providing sample responses and valuable tips to help you achieve a high score in your IELTS Speaking test.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In this section, the examiner may ask you some general questions about your family. Here are some common questions you might encounter:

1. Do you have a large or small family?
2. How often do you see your family members?
3. Who are you closest to in your family?
4. Is there anyone in your family that you particularly admire?

Let’s focus on answering the last question as it directly relates to our main topic.

Sample answer (Band 7-8):

“Yes, I particularly admire my grandmother. She’s been a constant source of inspiration throughout my life. Her resilience and wisdom never fail to amaze me, especially considering the challenges she’s faced. I often find myself seeking her advice on various matters, both personal and professional.”

describe a family you know

Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)

In this section, you’ll be given a cue card with a topic and some bullet points. Here’s a sample cue card related to our theme:

Describe a family member you most admire
You should say:
- Who this person is
- What this person does
- What qualities this person has
- And explain why you admire this person so much

Sample answer (Band 6-7):

“The family member I admire most is my uncle, John. He’s my father’s younger brother and works as a pediatrician in a busy city hospital. What I find most impressive about him is his dedication to his job and his patients. He often works long hours, sometimes even on weekends, to ensure that all the children under his care receive the best possible treatment.

One of his most admirable qualities is his patience. Dealing with sick children and worried parents can be challenging, but he always remains calm and compassionate. He has a unique ability to explain complex medical issues in simple terms, which puts both the children and their parents at ease.

Another quality I admire in him is his continuous pursuit of knowledge. Despite being in his profession for over two decades, he’s always eager to learn about new medical advancements and treatments. He regularly attends conferences and workshops to stay updated in his field.

I admire him so much because he’s a perfect example of how one can make a significant impact on others’ lives through their profession. His dedication to his work and his patients is truly inspiring. Moreover, he manages to balance his demanding career with being a loving father to his own children and a supportive family member to the rest of us. He’s shown me that it’s possible to excel in your career while still maintaining strong family bonds.”

Sample answer (Band 8-9):

“The family member I hold in the highest regard is undoubtedly my grandmother, a remarkable woman who has been a cornerstone of our family for decades. At the age of 75, she continues to be an active participant in community service, dedicating her time to various charitable organizations.

What truly sets her apart is her unwavering resilience in the face of adversity. Having lived through significant historical events and personal challenges, she has emerged not only unscathed but with an enhanced sense of empathy and understanding for others. Her ability to maintain a positive outlook, regardless of the circumstances, is truly awe-inspiring.

One of her most admirable qualities is her insatiable curiosity about the world. Despite her age, she’s remarkably tech-savvy, often surprising us with her adeptness at using modern devices and social media platforms. This openness to new experiences and willingness to adapt to changing times is a quality I strive to emulate.

Another trait I deeply admire is her diplomatic nature. She has an uncanny ability to diffuse tensions and bring people together, often serving as the family mediator during disagreements. Her wisdom and life experience allow her to offer balanced perspectives that help resolve conflicts amicably.

I admire her immensely because she embodies the idea that age is just a number. Her zest for life and continuous personal growth serve as a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to learn, to contribute, or to make a difference. She has taught me the importance of lifelong learning, compassion, and maintaining strong family ties. Her influence has been instrumental in shaping my values and aspirations, making her not just a grandmother, but a true role model in every sense of the word.”

Grandmother as admired family member for IELTS Speaking

Follow-up questions:

1. What qualities do you think are important in a role model?
2. How has this person influenced your life choices?

Sample answers (Band 8-9):

1. “I believe the most crucial qualities in a role model are integrity, resilience, and empathy. A true role model should demonstrate unwavering ethical principles, the ability to overcome obstacles with grace, and a genuine concern for others. Additionally, I think it’s important for role models to exhibit continuous personal growth and a willingness to admit and learn from their mistakes. These qualities inspire others to strive for self-improvement and contribute positively to society.”

2. “My grandmother’s influence has been profound and far-reaching in shaping my life choices. Her emphasis on education inspired me to pursue higher studies and continually seek knowledge. Her commitment to community service has instilled in me a strong sense of social responsibility, leading me to actively participate in volunteer work. Perhaps most significantly, her ability to maintain strong family bonds while pursuing her passions has taught me the importance of work-life balance. This has guided me in making career choices that align with my values and allow me to prioritize both professional growth and personal relationships.”

describe a person you consider a role model

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

In this section, the examiner will ask you more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some possible questions:

1. Do you think the concept of role models has changed over time?
2. How important is it for children to have role models within their family?
3. In what ways can admiring someone be potentially negative?

Sample answers (Band 7-8):

1. “I believe the concept of role models has indeed evolved over time. In the past, role models were often limited to family members, community leaders, or historical figures. However, with the rise of social media and global connectivity, people now have access to a much wider range of potential role models, including influencers, celebrities, and international figures. This broadened scope allows individuals to find role models who align more closely with their personal interests and aspirations. However, it also brings challenges, such as the need to critically evaluate the authenticity and values of these new role models.”

2. “Having role models within the family is crucial for children’s development. Family role models provide immediate, tangible examples of values, behaviors, and life skills. They offer a sense of continuity and cultural identity, helping children understand their roots and family traditions. Moreover, family role models are more accessible and can provide personalized guidance and support. They can demonstrate how to navigate real-life challenges, fostering resilience and problem-solving skills. However, it’s also important for children to be exposed to diverse role models outside the family to broaden their perspectives and aspirations.”

3. “While admiring someone can be incredibly inspiring, it can potentially have negative effects if not balanced with critical thinking. Excessive admiration might lead to unrealistic expectations or a tendency to overlook the role model’s flaws. This can result in disappointment or disillusionment if the admired person doesn’t live up to these idealized standards. Additionally, intense admiration might lead to imitation without personal reflection, potentially stifling an individual’s unique qualities and growth. It’s important to admire people’s positive qualities while maintaining a realistic perspective and developing one’s own identity.”

describe someone older than you whom you admire

Key Vocabulary and Phrases

To enhance your IELTS Speaking performance, consider using these advanced words and phrases:

1. Cornerstone /ˈkɔːnəstəʊn/ (noun): An important quality or feature on which something depends or is based.
   Example: “My grandmother has been a cornerstone of our family for decades.”

2. Unwavering /ʌnˈweɪvərɪŋ/ (adjective): Steady or resolute; persistent.
   Example: “Her unwavering support has been crucial in my personal development.”

3. Resilience /rɪˈzɪliəns/ (noun): The capacity to recover quickly from difficulties; toughness.
   Example: “Her resilience in the face of adversity is truly inspiring.”

4. Instrumental /ˌɪnstrəˈmentl/ (adjective): Serving as a means of pursuing an aim.
   Example: “Her guidance has been instrumental in shaping my career choices.”

5. Emulate /ˈemjʊleɪt/ (verb): Match or surpass (a person or achievement), typically by imitation.
   Example: “I strive to emulate her positive outlook on life.”

describe a person who inspires you to achieve your goals

Examiner’s Advice

To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test when describing a family member you admire:

1. Use a variety of descriptive adjectives and advanced vocabulary to paint a vivid picture of the person.
2. Provide specific examples to illustrate the qualities you admire.
3. Explain the impact this person has had on your life and values.
4. Use a range of tenses appropriately to discuss past experiences and present admiration.
5. Practice speaking fluently and coherently about this topic for 2-3 minutes.
6. Be prepared to discuss more abstract ideas related to role models and admiration in Part 3.

Remember, authenticity is key. While it’s important to use advanced language, ensure that your responses genuinely reflect your thoughts and experiences.

IELTS Speaking test preparation

describe a person who is always optimistic

By following these guidelines and practicing regularly, you’ll be well-prepared to excel in the IELTS Speaking test when discussing a family member you admire. Remember, the key to success lies in combining fluent speech, rich vocabulary, and genuine personal insights.