The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about influential people in your country, including environmental advocates. This topic allows candidates to showcase their knowledge of environmental issues while demonstrating their English language skills. As an experienced IELTS examiner, I’ll guide you through answering questions about a famous environmental advocate from your country, providing sample answers and analysis to help you achieve a high band score.
Understanding the Topic
Before we dive into the specifics, it’s important to understand what the examiner is looking for when asking about a famous environmental advocate. They want to assess your ability to:
- Describe a person and their achievements
- Discuss environmental issues
- Express opinions on social and ecological matters
- Use appropriate vocabulary related to environmentalism
This topic has appeared in various forms in past IELTS exams and is likely to continue being relevant due to growing global environmental concerns.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, the examiner may ask general questions about environmental issues or famous people. Here’s a sample question with a suggested answer:
Q: Do you think it’s important for countries to have environmental advocates?
A: (Band 7-8 answer) Absolutely, I believe it’s crucial for countries to have environmental advocates. These individuals play a vital role in raising awareness about ecological issues and pushing for positive change. They often have the platform and influence to reach both the public and policymakers, which can lead to significant environmental reforms.
Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)
Here’s a sample cue card related to describing a famous environmental advocate:
Describe a famous environmental advocate from your country
You should say:
- Who this person is
- What they have done for the environment
- How they became famous
- And explain why you think they are important
Sample Answer (Band 6-7)
I’d like to talk about Nguy Thi Khanh, a well-known environmental advocate from Vietnam. She’s the founder of the Green Innovation and Development Centre, which focuses on promoting sustainable energy in our country.
Khanh has done a lot for the environment, particularly in the area of clean energy. She’s been actively involved in campaigns to reduce Vietnam’s reliance on coal power and increase the use of renewable energy sources. Her work has raised awareness about the environmental and health impacts of coal-fired power plants.
She became famous through her persistent efforts and achievements in environmental protection. In 2018, she was awarded the Goldman Environmental Prize, which is often called the “Green Nobel Prize.” This recognition significantly boosted her profile both in Vietnam and internationally.
I think Khanh is important because she’s bringing attention to critical environmental issues in Vietnam. Her work is helping to shape energy policies and encourage sustainable development. She’s also inspiring young people to get involved in environmental protection, which is crucial for the future of our country.
Sample Answer (Band 8-9)
I’d like to discuss Nguy Thi Khanh, a prominent environmental advocate from Vietnam who has made substantial contributions to our country’s ecological landscape. Khanh is the founder and executive director of the Green Innovation and Development Centre, an organization at the forefront of promoting sustainable energy solutions in Vietnam.
Khanh’s work has been instrumental in addressing one of Vietnam’s most pressing environmental challenges: the overreliance on coal power. She has spearheaded numerous initiatives aimed at transitioning our country towards cleaner, renewable energy sources. Her efforts have included conducting rigorous research, engaging with policymakers, and launching public awareness campaigns to highlight the detrimental effects of coal-fired power plants on both the environment and public health.
Khanh’s rise to prominence can be attributed to her unwavering commitment and tangible achievements in environmental advocacy. Her work gained international recognition in 2018 when she was awarded the prestigious Goldman Environmental Prize, often referred to as the “Green Nobel Prize.” This accolade catapulted her into the global spotlight, significantly enhancing her influence both domestically and internationally.
The importance of Khanh’s work cannot be overstated. She has been pivotal in shaping Vietnam’s environmental discourse and influencing energy policies at the highest levels. By advocating for sustainable development and clean energy alternatives, she is helping to secure a more environmentally sound future for Vietnam. Moreover, her success has inspired a new generation of environmental activists, creating a ripple effect that promises to have a lasting impact on our country’s approach to environmental issues.
Follow-up Questions
Q: How has this person influenced environmental policies in your country?
A: (Band 8-9) Khanh has exerted considerable influence on Vietnam’s environmental policies, particularly in the energy sector. Her research and advocacy have contributed significantly to the government’s decision to reassess its energy strategy, leading to a reduction in planned coal power projects and an increased focus on renewable energy sources. Her work has also helped to strengthen environmental impact assessment procedures, ensuring that new development projects are subject to more rigorous ecological scrutiny.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Q: What role do you think social media plays in environmental advocacy?
A: (Band 7-8) Social media has become an incredibly powerful tool for environmental advocates. It allows them to reach a vast audience quickly and cost-effectively. Platforms like Twitter and Instagram enable advocates to share compelling visuals and stories that can raise awareness and inspire action. Moreover, social media facilitates the formation of online communities where people can discuss environmental issues and organize initiatives.
A: (Band 8-9) Social media has revolutionized environmental advocacy by providing a democratic platform for information dissemination and community building. It serves as a catalyst for grassroots movements, allowing environmental issues to gain traction rapidly and transcend geographical boundaries. The viral nature of social media content can amplify messages and put pressure on policymakers and corporations to address environmental concerns. However, it’s crucial to note that social media can also perpetuate misinformation, so advocates must use these platforms responsibly and ethically to maintain credibility and effect genuine change.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases
To achieve a high band score, incorporate sophisticated vocabulary and phrases related to environmental advocacy. Here are some examples:
-
Sustainable development (noun) /səˈsteɪnəbl dɪˈveləpmənt/ – Economic development that doesn’t deplete natural resources
Example: “The advocate promotes sustainable development practices in urban planning.” -
Biodiversity conservation (noun phrase) /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti ˌkɒnsəˈveɪʃn/ – Protecting the variety of life on Earth
Example: “Her efforts in biodiversity conservation have helped protect endangered species.” -
Carbon footprint (noun) /ˈkɑːbən ˈfʊtprɪnt/ – The amount of carbon dioxide emissions caused by an individual or organization
Example: “The campaign aims to educate people about reducing their carbon footprint.” -
Renewable energy (noun phrase) /rɪˈnjuːəbl ˈenədʒi/ – Energy from sources that are naturally replenished
Example: “The advocate strongly supports the transition to renewable energy sources.” -
Environmental stewardship (noun phrase) /ɪnˌvaɪrənˈmentl ˈstjuːədʃɪp/ – Responsible use and protection of the natural environment
Example: “She promotes environmental stewardship through community education programs.”
Examiner’s Advice
To excel in the IELTS Speaking test when discussing environmental advocates:
- Research well-known environmental advocates from your country before the test.
- Practice describing their work and impact using sophisticated vocabulary.
- Be prepared to discuss broader environmental issues and policies.
- Use specific examples to support your points.
- Express your opinions clearly and confidently.
- Practice speaking about environmental topics regularly to improve fluency.
Remember, the key to a high band score is not just about what you say, but how you say it. Aim for clear pronunciation, varied vocabulary, and complex sentence structures while maintaining a natural conversational flow.
For more tips on improving your IELTS Speaking skills, check out our guide on how to describe a famous person you would like to meet. This can help you practice describing influential figures in a compelling way.