The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about well-known individuals from your home country. This topic is particularly common in Part 2 of the test, where you may be asked to describe a famous public figure. Understanding how to approach this task can significantly boost your performance and overall band score.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, the examiner may ask some general questions about famous people or public figures. Here are a few examples:
- Do you have any favorite celebrities in your country?
- What kind of public figures are most popular in your country?
- Do you think it’s important for young people to have role models?
Let’s look at a sample answer for the first question:
Examiner: Do you have any favorite celebrities in your country?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“Yes, I do. One celebrity I particularly admire is Tran Lap, the late frontman of the rock band Buc Tuong. He was not only an exceptional musician but also a social activist who used his platform to raise awareness about various issues. What I find most inspiring about him is his unwavering dedication to his art and his ability to connect with people through his music and actions.”
IELTS Speaking: Describing a famous public figure
Part 2: Long Turn
Here’s a sample cue card for this topic:
Describe a famous public figure from your country
You should say:
- Who this person is
- What they do
- Why they are famous
- And explain why you admire this person
Sample answer (Band 6-7):
“I’d like to talk about Nguyen Ngoc Nhu Quynh, also known as Mother Mushroom, a famous blogger and activist from Vietnam. She is a writer and social commentator who became well-known for her blog posts addressing social issues, environmental concerns, and human rights in Vietnam.
Quynh gained fame for her fearless approach to discussing sensitive topics and her efforts to raise awareness about various social and environmental problems. Her writings often shed light on issues that were not widely reported in mainstream media.
I admire her because of her courage and commitment to speaking out for what she believes in, despite facing significant challenges. Her dedication to using her voice to advocate for positive change in society is truly inspiring. Quynh’s story reminds us of the power of individual action and the importance of standing up for one’s beliefs, even in difficult circumstances.”
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to discuss Nguyen Ngoc Nhu Quynh, widely recognized by her pen name Mother Mushroom, a prominent blogger and activist from Vietnam. Quynh has distinguished herself as a prolific writer and social commentator, gaining notoriety for her incisive blog posts that delve into a myriad of social issues, environmental concerns, and human rights matters in Vietnam.
Quynh’s rise to fame can be attributed to her uncompromising approach to addressing sensitive topics and her relentless efforts to raise public awareness about various social and environmental challenges. Her writings have consistently illuminated issues that often remain underreported or overlooked in mainstream media channels.
What I find most admirable about Quynh is her unwavering courage and steadfast commitment to articulating her beliefs, even in the face of formidable obstacles. Her resolute dedication to leveraging her platform as a means to advocate for positive societal change is truly inspiring. Quynh’s journey serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative potential of individual action and underscores the paramount importance of standing firm in one’s convictions, particularly when confronted with adversity.”
Possible follow-up questions:
- Do you think public figures have a responsibility to be good role models?
- How do you think social media has changed the way we perceive public figures?
Sample answer for question 1 (Band 8-9):
“I firmly believe that public figures do bear a significant responsibility to be positive role models, given their substantial influence on society, particularly on younger generations. Their actions and words can shape public opinion and inspire behavioral changes on a large scale. However, it’s crucial to strike a balance between holding them accountable and recognizing their humanity. We shouldn’t expect perfection, but rather authenticity and a genuine commitment to using their platform for the greater good. Public figures who embrace this responsibility can catalyze positive social change and contribute meaningfully to society’s progress.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Examiner: How do you think the media influences public perception of famous figures?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“The media plays a crucial role in shaping public perception of famous figures. It acts as a lens through which the public views celebrities and public figures, often highlighting certain aspects of their lives or careers while downplaying others. This selective focus can lead to a skewed perception of these individuals.
For instance, the media might sensationalize scandals or controversies involving public figures, which can overshadow their professional achievements or positive contributions to society. On the other hand, media coverage can also elevate certain individuals to hero status, sometimes overlooking their flaws or mistakes.
Social media has further complicated this dynamic by allowing public figures to communicate directly with their audience, potentially bypassing traditional media filters. This can lead to a more authentic representation but also opens up possibilities for misinformation or carefully curated public images.
Overall, I believe it’s important for the public to critically evaluate media portrayals and seek out diverse sources of information to form a more balanced view of public figures.”
Media's influence on public perception of famous figures
Key Vocabulary and Phrases
Here are some advanced vocabulary items and phrases that can help you achieve a higher band score:
Influential figure (noun) – /ɪnfluˈenʃəl ˈfɪɡə/ – A person who has the power to affect others’ beliefs or actions.
Example: “As an influential figure in the tech industry, her opinions on AI ethics carry significant weight.”To make headlines (phrase) – /meɪk ˈhedlaɪnz/ – To be featured prominently in the news.
Example: “The scientist’s groundbreaking discovery made headlines around the world.”Philanthropist (noun) – /fɪˈlænθrəpɪst/ – A person who seeks to promote the welfare of others, especially by donating money to good causes.
Example: “Despite his wealth, he remained a humble philanthropist, anonymously donating to various charities.”To leave a lasting legacy (phrase) – /liːv ə ˈlɑːstɪŋ ˈleɡəsi/ – To have a long-term impact that continues after one’s death.
Example: “The composer’s innovative works left a lasting legacy in the world of classical music.”Trailblazer (noun) – /ˈtreɪlbleɪzə/ – A person who is the first to do something; an innovator.
Example: “As a trailblazer in renewable energy, she paved the way for sustainable development in her country.”
Examiner’s Advice
To excel in the IELTS Speaking test when describing a famous public figure:
Prepare diverse examples: Familiarize yourself with various public figures from different fields such as science, arts, sports, and social activism. This will help you respond flexibly to different questions.
Practice structuring your answers: Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to organize your thoughts, especially in Part 2.
Develop your critical thinking: In Part 3, practice analyzing the impact of public figures on society and discussing related issues in depth.
Expand your vocabulary: Learn and use topic-specific vocabulary and idiomatic expressions related to fame, influence, and public life.
Work on your fluency: Regular practice speaking about public figures will help you become more comfortable with the topic and improve your overall fluency.
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Speaking is not just about knowing the facts, but also about expressing your ideas clearly, coherently, and with appropriate language use.