The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about influential people in our lives. One common topic is describing someone who encourages you to achieve your goals. This theme has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to remain relevant in future tests. Let’s explore how to effectively answer questions related to this topic and achieve a high band score.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about encouragement and goals. Here’s a sample question with a suggested answer:

Q: Do you have any personal goals you’re working towards?

A: Absolutely. I’m currently focused on improving my language skills, particularly in English. My ultimate aim is to achieve fluency and secure a position in an international company. It’s a challenging objective, but I’m determined to make steady progress towards it.

describe a person who motivates you

Part 2: Long Turn

Here’s a sample cue card related to the topic:

Describe A Person Who Encourages You To Achieve Your Goals.
You should say:

• Who this person is
• How you know them
• What goals they encourage you to achieve
• And explain why their encouragement is important to you

Sample Answer (Band 6-7):

The person I’d like to talk about is my high school English teacher, Mrs. Johnson. I met her when I was 15 years old, and she quickly became a significant influence in my life. Mrs. Johnson always encouraged me to improve my English skills and pursue my dream of studying abroad.

She consistently pushed me to participate in English speaking competitions and writing contests. Her belief in my abilities gave me confidence to set higher goals for myself. She would often stay after class to help me practice my pronunciation and offer constructive feedback on my essays.

Mrs. Johnson’s encouragement is important to me because it helped me realize my potential. Without her support, I might not have had the courage to apply for international universities or even consider taking the IELTS test. Her words of motivation continue to inspire me even now, years after graduating from high school.

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):

I’d like to shed light on a truly inspirational figure in my life – my mentor, Dr. Sarah Thompson. Our paths crossed five years ago when I enrolled in her advanced research methodology course at university. From the outset, it was evident that Dr. Thompson was no ordinary professor; she possessed an uncanny ability to identify and nurture the potential in her students.

Dr. Thompson has been instrumental in encouraging me to pursue my academic aspirations, particularly in the field of environmental science. She consistently challenges me to push the boundaries of my research, urging me to think critically and approach problems from unconventional angles. Under her guidance, I’ve set my sights on publishing in top-tier journals and securing a position at a leading research institution.

The profound impact of Dr. Thompson’s encouragement lies in its multifaceted nature. Not only does she provide invaluable academic insight, but she also imparts wisdom on navigating the complexities of the scientific community. Her unwavering support has instilled in me a sense of self-belief that transcends the academic realm, empowering me to tackle challenges in all aspects of life with confidence and determination.

Mentor encouraging student to achieve academic goals

Follow-up Questions:

1. How has this person’s encouragement changed your life?
2. Do you think you would have achieved your goals without their support?

Sample Answers:

Band 6-7:

1. Mrs. Johnson’s encouragement has had a significant impact on my life. It boosted my confidence and motivated me to work harder on my English skills. Because of her support, I felt more prepared to take on challenges like the IELTS test.

2. I think I would have struggled more to achieve my goals without Mrs. Johnson’s support. Her encouragement gave me the push I needed to believe in myself and take steps towards my dreams.

Band 8-9:

1. Dr. Thompson’s encouragement has been nothing short of transformative. It has fundamentally altered my perception of my capabilities and broadened my horizons. Her mentorship has not only elevated my academic performance but has also instilled in me a growth mindset that permeates all aspects of my life.

2. While I’d like to think I would have persevered regardless, I must acknowledge that Dr. Thompson’s support has been pivotal in accelerating my progress. Her guidance has helped me navigate obstacles more efficiently and seize opportunities I might have otherwise overlooked. Her encouragement has been a catalyst, propelling me towards my goals with greater velocity and precision.

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

In this section, the examiner may ask more abstract questions related to encouragement and goal achievement. Here are some sample questions and answers:

Q: How important is encouragement in achieving one’s goals?

A (Band 6-7): Encouragement is very important in achieving goals. It can boost confidence and motivate people to keep trying, even when things get difficult. When someone believes in you, it can make a big difference in how you approach challenges.

A (Band 8-9): Encouragement plays a pivotal role in goal achievement, acting as a powerful catalyst for personal and professional growth. It serves as a psychological buttress, bolstering one’s resilience in the face of adversity. Moreover, encouragement from others can provide fresh perspectives, helping individuals overcome mental barriers and unlock their latent potential. It’s not merely about external validation; rather, it fosters an internal dialogue of self-belief and determination.

describe a time you were praised for your work

Q: Do you think self-encouragement is as effective as encouragement from others?

A (Band 6-7): I believe both types of encouragement are important. Self-encouragement is good because it comes from within and can help you stay motivated even when others aren’t around. But encouragement from others can provide a different perspective and sometimes give you a boost when you’re feeling down.

A (Band 8-9): While both forms of encouragement hold merit, they serve distinct psychological functions. Self-encouragement is intrinsically linked to personal resilience and self-efficacy, allowing individuals to maintain momentum in solitary pursuits. It’s a crucial skill in cultivating long-term perseverance. However, encouragement from others offers unique benefits – it can provide external validation, offer fresh insights, and create a support network. The ideal scenario is a synergy between self-encouragement and external support, creating a robust framework for sustained motivation and goal achievement.

describe a time when you had to take on a new responsibility

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

1. Instrumental /ˌɪnstrəˈmentl/ (adjective): Having an important role in making something happen.
   Example: “My mentor was instrumental in shaping my career path.”

2. To nurture /ˈnɜːrtʃər/ (verb): To help or encourage the development of something.
   Example: “A good leader knows how to nurture talent within their team.”

3. Catalyst /ˈkætəlɪst/ (noun): A person or thing that precipitates an event or change.
   Example: “Her encouragement was the catalyst for my decision to pursue further education.”

4. To empower /ɪmˈpaʊər/ (verb): To give someone the authority or power to do something.
   Example: “His words empowered me to take control of my future.”

5. Pivotal /ˈpɪvətl/ (adjective): Of crucial importance in relation to the development or success of something else.
   Example: “Her support played a pivotal role in my academic success.”

Examiner’s Advice

To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test when describing a person who encourages you:

1. Use a variety of vocabulary and avoid repetition. Incorporate advanced words and phrases naturally into your responses.

2. Provide specific examples and personal anecdotes to illustrate your points. This demonstrates your ability to communicate complex ideas effectively.

3. Practice speaking about different aspects of encouragement and goal achievement. This will help you respond fluently to various question types.

4. Focus on your pronunciation and intonation. Clear articulation and natural stress patterns contribute significantly to your overall score.

5. Develop your ideas fully. Don’t just state facts; explain your thoughts and feelings about the person’s encouragement and its impact on you.

6. Be prepared to discuss abstract concepts related to motivation and goal-setting in Part 3. This is where you can showcase your ability to analyze and express complex ideas.

Remember, consistent practice and exposure to English are key to improving your speaking skills and achieving a high band score in the IELTS test.