The ability to describe a friend you admire is a crucial skill for 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 in assessing a candidate’s ability to express personal opinions and experiences. Let’s explore how to excel in this topic across all parts of the IELTS Speaking exam.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about friendship and admiration. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:
- Do you have many friends?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“I’d say I have a close-knit circle of friends rather than a large group. I prefer quality over quantity when it comes to friendships, so I’ve cultivated a few deep, meaningful relationships over the years.”
- What qualities do you admire in a friend?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I particularly value loyalty and authenticity in my friends. Someone who stands by you through thick and thin and isn’t afraid to be their true self is truly admirable. I also appreciate friends who are empathetic and have a good sense of humor, as these qualities make our interactions more enriching and enjoyable.”
- How do you usually make new friends?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“I typically make new friends through shared interests or activities. For instance, I’ve met some great people at my local photography club. I find that having a common passion makes it easier to strike up conversations and form connections. I’m also open to meeting friends of friends, which often leads to expanding my social circle organically.”
Describe a talented person you admire can be a similar topic that may come up in the IELTS Speaking test. The strategies for describing a friend you admire can also be applied to this topic.
Part 2: Long Turn
Here’s a sample cue card for this topic:
Describe a friend you admire
You should say:
- Who this person is
- How you met
- What qualities you admire in them
- And explain why you admire this person
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to talk about my friend Sarah, whom I deeply admire for her numerous admirable qualities. We first crossed paths during our university days, where we were both studying environmental science.
What struck me immediately about Sarah was her unwavering commitment to environmental causes. She wasn’t just passionate about the subject academically; she actively participated in various conservation projects and consistently went the extra mile to raise awareness about climate change.
One of the qualities I most admire in Sarah is her resilience. Despite facing numerous challenges, including financial difficulties and skepticism from others about her chosen path, she never wavered in her determination. Her ability to persevere in the face of adversity is truly inspiring.
Another trait I find admirable is Sarah’s empathy. She has an innate ability to understand and connect with people from all walks of life. This quality not only makes her an excellent friend but also a highly effective environmentalist, as she can communicate complex issues in a way that resonates with diverse audiences.
I admire Sarah because she embodies the change she wishes to see in the world. Her actions consistently align with her values, whether it’s adopting a zero-waste lifestyle or organizing community clean-up drives. She doesn’t just talk about making a difference; she takes concrete steps to create positive change.
Moreover, Sarah’s infectious enthusiasm is truly admirable. Her passion for environmental conservation is so genuine and compelling that it motivates others to get involved and make a difference. She has this remarkable ability to inspire action in those around her, myself included.
In essence, I admire Sarah because she exemplifies the kind of person I aspire to be – someone who is passionate, resilient, empathetic, and actively working to make the world a better place. Her friendship has not only enriched my life but has also challenged me to be a better version of myself.”
IELTS candidate describing admired friend
Follow-up questions:
- Has your friend influenced your life in any way?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“Absolutely, Sarah has had a profound impact on my life. Her passion for environmental conservation has inspired me to be more conscious of my own ecological footprint. I’ve adopted several sustainable practices, like reducing single-use plastics and composting, directly because of her influence. Moreover, her resilience in pursuing her goals has motivated me to be more persistent in my own endeavors, both personal and professional.”
- Do you think it’s important to have friends who inspire us?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“I believe it’s crucial to have friends who inspire us. Such friendships can be catalysts for personal growth and can broaden our perspectives. When we surround ourselves with inspiring individuals, we’re more likely to push our own boundaries and strive for improvement. However, it’s equally important to ensure that these relationships are balanced and mutually supportive.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In this section, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to friendship and admiration. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:
- Do you think people generally admire the same qualities in others?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I believe there’s a complex interplay between universal and individual preferences when it comes to admirable qualities. On a broad level, traits like honesty, kindness, and intelligence are often universally appreciated. However, the specific combination of qualities someone admires can be highly individualistic, shaped by personal experiences, cultural background, and individual values.
For instance, someone who has struggled with financial hardships might particularly admire resilience and resourcefulness in others. Conversely, a person from a culture that values collective harmony might prioritize qualities like diplomacy and selflessness.
Moreover, as societies evolve, so do the qualities we tend to admire. In today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world, adaptability and innovation are increasingly valued. This shift in admiration reflects changing societal needs and challenges.
It’s also worth noting that admiration can be context-dependent. In a professional setting, qualities like leadership and efficiency might be highly regarded, while in personal relationships, empathy and loyalty might take precedence.
In essence, while there are some common threads in what people admire, the nuances of admiration are often as diverse as humanity itself.”
- How has the concept of admiration changed over generations?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“The concept of admiration has undergone significant shifts over generations, reflecting changes in societal values and norms. In the past, admiration was often tied to traditional notions of success, such as wealth, status, or power. However, in recent times, there’s been a noticeable shift towards admiring individuals who make a positive impact on society or demonstrate exceptional personal qualities.
For instance, younger generations seem to place greater value on authenticity and social responsibility. They often admire individuals who use their platform to address social issues or promote sustainability, rather than those who simply accumulate wealth or fame.
Additionally, the rise of social media has transformed the landscape of admiration. It has democratized the concept, allowing ordinary individuals to gain admiration for their skills, creativity, or unique perspectives. This is a stark contrast to earlier times when admiration was largely reserved for public figures or local heroes.
However, this shift also brings challenges. The instant nature of social media can lead to fleeting admiration based on superficial qualities or viral moments, rather than sustained admirable behavior or achievements.
In conclusion, while the fundamental human tendency to admire others remains, the qualities we admire and how we express that admiration have evolved significantly with each generation.”
Changing concept of admiration across generations
- Is it possible to admire someone you’ve never met?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“Absolutely, it’s entirely possible to admire someone you’ve never met personally, and this phenomenon has become increasingly common in our interconnected world. This type of admiration often stems from an individual’s public persona, achievements, or the values they represent.
Historical figures, for instance, continue to inspire admiration long after their time. People might admire Nelson Mandela for his resilience and commitment to equality, or Marie Curie for her groundbreaking scientific contributions, despite never having met them.
In the contemporary context, public figures like activists, artists, or innovators can garner widespread admiration based on their work or the ideas they champion. This ‘distant admiration’ can be a powerful motivator, inspiring people to emulate certain qualities or strive for similar achievements.
However, it’s crucial to acknowledge that this form of admiration comes with certain caveats. The image we have of public figures is often carefully curated or filtered through media representation. This can lead to a somewhat idealized or incomplete picture of the person being admired.
Moreover, admiring someone from afar can sometimes lead to unrealistic expectations or disappointment if more complex aspects of their personality come to light. It’s important to maintain a balanced perspective, recognizing that even admirable figures are multifaceted human beings with flaws and complexities.
Despite these considerations, I believe that admiring individuals we haven’t met personally can be a positive force. It can broaden our horizons, challenge our perspectives, and provide aspirational models that motivate us to grow and improve ourselves.”
Describe a movie character you admire is another interesting topic that relates to admiring someone you’ve never met in person. The strategies discussed here can be applied to that topic as well.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
Admirable /ədˈmaɪrəbl/ (adjective): Deserving respect or approval.
Example: “Her dedication to helping others is truly admirable.”To look up to (phrasal verb): To admire or respect someone.
Example: “I’ve always looked up to my older sister for her determination.”Role model /roʊl ˈmɑːdl/ (noun): A person looked to by others as an example to be imitated.
Example: “Many young athletes see her as a role model.”To embody /ɪmˈbɑːdi/ (verb): To represent or express something in a clear and obvious way.
Example: “He embodies the qualities of honesty and integrity.”Inspiring /ɪnˈspaɪərɪŋ/ (adjective): Having the effect of encouraging, motivating, or stimulating.
Example: “Her inspiring speech motivated the entire team.”To emulate /ˈemjuleɪt/ (verb): To try to equal or excel; imitate with effort to equal or surpass.
Example: “Many young entrepreneurs try to emulate the success of tech giants.”Qualities /ˈkwɑːlətiz/ (noun): A distinctive attribute or characteristic possessed by someone.
Example: “Patience and perseverance are two qualities I greatly admire in her.”To hold in high regard (idiom): To respect or admire someone very much.
Example: “I hold my mentor in high regard for her wisdom and guidance.”
Describe a talented person you know well can be another opportunity to use these vocabulary items effectively in the IELTS Speaking test.
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test when describing a friend you admire:
Prepare thoroughly: Think about different friends and their admirable qualities. Have specific examples ready to illustrate these qualities.
Use varied vocabulary: Incorporate a range of descriptive words and phrases to express admiration. Avoid repetition and simple language.
Provide depth: Don’t just list qualities; explain why you admire them and how they impact you or others.
Stay relevant: Ensure your answers directly address the question asked. Use the cue card points as a guide in Part 2.
Speak fluently: Practice speaking about this topic to improve your fluency. Aim for smooth delivery with minimal hesitation.
Show personality: Express genuine enthusiasm when talking about your admired friend. This adds authenticity to your speech.
Expand in Part 3: Be prepared to discuss more abstract ideas related to admiration and friendship. Practice giving extended answers with examples and explanations.
Use appropriate body language: Maintain eye contact and use natural gestures to enhance your communication.
Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is not just what you say, but how you say it. Confidence, fluency, and the ability to express your thoughts clearly are crucial factors in achieving a high score.
IELTS Speaking test in progress
By following these guidelines and practicing regularly, you can significantly improve your performance in describing a friend you admire and in the IELTS Speaking test overall. Remember, describe an outdoor activity you tried for the first time or describe a person who thinks music is important could also be potential topics, so apply these strategies across various subjects to be well-prepared for any question that may arise.