The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about influential people, and “Describe A Historical Figure You Respect” is a common topic. This task allows candidates to showcase their language skills while discussing important personalities from the past. Let’s explore how to effectively answer this question and achieve a high score.

describe a famous person in your country

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In Part 1, the examiner may ask general questions related to history or influential people. Here’s a sample question with a suggested answer:

Q: Do you enjoy learning about history?
A: Absolutely! I find history fascinating because it helps us understand how our world has been shaped. Learning about past events and figures gives me valuable insights into human nature and societal progress. It’s like piecing together a giant puzzle of human civilization.

Part 2: Long Turn

Here’s a sample cue card for this topic:

Describe a historical figure you respect.
You should say:

• Who this person is
• When this person lived
• What this person did
• And explain why you respect this person

Sample Answer (Band 6-7):

I’d like to talk about Mahatma Gandhi, a prominent figure in Indian history. Gandhi lived from 1869 to 1948 and played a crucial role in India’s independence movement. He is famous for his non-violent approach to political change.

Gandhi led many peaceful protests against British rule, including the Salt March and the Quit India Movement. He encouraged people to boycott British goods and promoted the use of homespun cloth. His actions inspired millions of Indians to join the fight for freedom.

I respect Gandhi because of his unwavering commitment to non-violence and his ability to bring about significant change through peaceful means. His philosophy of ‘ahimsa’ or non-violence has influenced many other leaders and movements worldwide. Gandhi’s simple lifestyle and dedication to serving others are also admirable qualities that I find inspiring.

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):

I’d like to discuss Mahatma Gandhi, an iconic figure in world history who profoundly impacted the 20th century. Gandhi lived from 1869 to 1948, a period marked by significant global upheaval and the struggle for Indian independence.

Gandhi’s most notable achievement was his instrumental role in leading India to independence through non-violent civil disobedience. He spearheaded several landmark campaigns, including the Salt March of 1930 and the Quit India Movement of 1942. These peaceful protests challenged British colonial rule and inspired millions to join the independence movement. Additionally, Gandhi’s philosophy of ‘ahimsa’ or non-violence extended beyond politics, promoting social reforms such as eradicating untouchability and fostering Hindu-Muslim unity.

I hold Gandhi in high esteem for several compelling reasons. Firstly, his unwavering commitment to non-violent resistance in the face of oppression demonstrates remarkable moral courage and has since influenced numerous social movements worldwide. Secondly, Gandhi’s ability to mobilize masses and effect substantial change through peaceful means is a testament to the power of principled leadership. Lastly, his personal philosophy of simple living and high thinking, exemplified by his austere lifestyle, serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of aligning one’s actions with one’s beliefs. Gandhi’s legacy continues to resonate globally, inspiring generations to strive for justice and equality through peaceful means.

Mahatma Gandhi leading the Salt March in 1930

Follow-up Questions:

1. How has this historical figure influenced modern society?
2. Do you think it’s important for young people to learn about historical figures? Why or why not?

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):

1. Gandhi’s influence on modern society is profound and far-reaching. His philosophy of non-violent resistance has inspired numerous civil rights movements globally, including Martin Luther King Jr.’s campaign in the United States. Gandhi’s emphasis on simple living and sustainability has gained renewed relevance in our current environmental crisis. Moreover, his ideas on inclusive governance and grassroots democracy continue to shape political thought in many developing nations.

2. It is absolutely crucial for young people to learn about historical figures. These individuals serve as powerful role models, demonstrating how a single person can effect significant change. Studying historical figures provides valuable context for understanding current global issues and helps develop critical thinking skills. Furthermore, it fosters a sense of cultural identity and continuity, allowing younger generations to appreciate their heritage and the struggles that have shaped their present circumstances.

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

Q: How do different generations view historical figures?
A (Band 6-7): Different generations often have varying views on historical figures. Older generations might have a more traditional perspective, focusing on well-known achievements. Younger people might be more critical, looking at both positive and negative aspects of historical figures. This difference can lead to interesting debates about who should be considered a hero.

A (Band 8-9): The perception of historical figures often varies significantly across generations, reflecting changing societal values and access to information. Older generations may tend to view historical figures through a more traditional lens, often emphasizing their major accomplishments and adhering to established narratives. In contrast, younger generations, armed with access to diverse information sources, often adopt a more nuanced and critical perspective. They’re more likely to scrutinize historical figures holistically, considering both their achievements and their flaws, and to reassess their legacies in light of contemporary ethical standards. This generational divide can spark productive dialogues about the nature of heroism, the complexity of human character, and the evolving standards by which we judge historical significance.

Q: Do you think the way history is taught in schools has changed over time?
A (Band 6-7): Yes, I believe the teaching of history has changed. In the past, history lessons often focused on memorizing dates and events. Now, there’s more emphasis on understanding different perspectives and analyzing historical events. Schools also use more technology, like documentaries and online resources, to make history more engaging for students.

A (Band 8-9): The approach to teaching history in schools has undergone a significant transformation over time. Traditionally, history education often centered on rote memorization of dates, events, and key figures, presenting a rather monolithic narrative. However, modern pedagogical methods have shifted towards a more nuanced and analytical approach. There’s now a greater emphasis on developing critical thinking skills, encouraging students to evaluate multiple perspectives and primary sources. This shift reflects a growing recognition of history’s complexity and the importance of contextual understanding. Furthermore, the integration of technology has revolutionized history education, providing access to a wealth of digital archives, interactive timelines, and virtual tours, thus making historical study more immersive and engaging. This evolution in teaching methods aims to equip students with the skills to interpret historical events critically and draw connections to contemporary issues, fostering a deeper, more meaningful engagement with the past.

describe a time when you were asked for your opinion

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

1. Iconic figure /aɪˈkɒnɪk ˈfɪɡə(r)/ (noun phrase): A very famous person who represents a particular idea or way of life.
   Example: Nelson Mandela is an iconic figure of the anti-apartheid movement.

2. Profound impact /prəˈfaʊnd ˈɪmpækt/ (noun phrase): A very significant or deep effect.
   Example: The invention of the internet has had a profound impact on how we communicate.

3. Non-violent civil disobedience /nɒn ˈvaɪələnt ˈsɪvl dɪsəˈbiːdiəns/ (noun phrase): The practice of achieving political goals through peaceful refusal to comply with laws.
   Example: Martin Luther King Jr. advocated for non-violent civil disobedience during the Civil Rights Movement.

4. Mobilize masses /ˈməʊbəlaɪz ˈmæsɪz/ (verb phrase): To organize large groups of people for a particular cause or action.
   Example: The young activist used social media to mobilize masses for climate change protests.

5. Align one’s actions with one’s beliefs /əˈlaɪn wʌnz ˈækʃənz wɪð wʌnz bɪˈliːfs/ (phrase): To ensure that what you do matches what you say you believe in.
   Example: A true leader must align their actions with their beliefs to maintain credibility.

describe someone older than you whom you admire

Examiner’s Advice

To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test when describing a historical figure:

1. Prepare diverse examples: Research several historical figures from different fields and eras. This will allow you to speak confidently regardless of the specific question.

2. Practice structuring your answer: Use the cue card points as a guide to organize your thoughts coherently.

3. Develop your ideas: Don’t just state facts; explain why they are significant and how they relate to your respect for the figure.

4. Use a range of vocabulary: Incorporate topic-specific terms and advanced vocabulary naturally in your responses.

5. Show critical thinking: In Part 3, demonstrate your ability to analyze and evaluate historical perspectives and their relevance to modern society.

6. Maintain fluency: Practice speaking about historical topics to improve your confidence and reduce hesitations.

Remember, the key to success is not just knowing about historical figures, but being able to discuss them eloquently and thoughtfully.

describe a person who inspires you to achieve your goals

IELTS Speaking Test Preparation

By following these guidelines and practicing regularly, you can confidently approach the topic of describing a historical figure you respect in your IELTS Speaking test.