How to Ace the IELTS Speaking Task: Describing a Person with Positive Influence

The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about influential people in our lives. One common topic is “Describe a person who has had a positive influence on your life.” This article will guide you through answering this question effectively, providing sample responses and key strategies to help you achieve a high band score.

Understanding the Task

Before we dive into specific examples, it’s crucial to understand what the examiners are looking for when they ask you to describe a person who has positively influenced you. They want to assess your ability to:

1. Speak fluently and coherently about a personal experience
2. Use a range of vocabulary to describe people and their qualities
3. Explain the impact this person has had on your life
4. Structure your response logically

Let’s break down how to approach this task in each part of the IELTS Speaking test.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In Part 1, you may be asked some general questions about influential people. Here are some possible questions and sample answers:

Q: Do you think role models are important for young people?

Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I believe role models are quite important for young people. They can provide guidance and inspiration, showing us what’s possible if we work hard and make good choices.

Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely. Role models play a crucial role in shaping the aspirations and values of young individuals. They serve as living examples of success and integrity, demonstrating that with dedication and perseverance, one can overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. Moreover, positive role models can inspire young people to dream big and pursue paths they might not have considered otherwise.

Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)

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

Describe a person who has had a positive influence on your life.
You should say:

• Who this person is
• How you know this person
• What qualities this person has
• And explain how this person has influenced you positively

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):

I’d like to talk about my high school English teacher, Mrs. Johnson, who has had a profound impact on my life. I first met her when I was 15 years old, and she taught me for three consecutive years until I graduated.

Mrs. Johnson is an exceptionally dedicated educator with a passion for literature that’s truly infectious. She has this remarkable ability to bring stories to life and make even the most complex literary concepts accessible. What sets her apart is her unwavering belief in her students’ potential. She consistently pushes us to excel, but always with encouragement and support.

One of her most admirable qualities is her empathy. She has an uncanny knack for understanding each student’s unique challenges and tailoring her approach accordingly. Additionally, her integrity and work ethic are exemplary. She often stayed after school to help students and was always meticulously prepared for each lesson.

Mrs. Johnson’s influence on me has been transformative. She ignited my love for the English language and literature, which ultimately led me to pursue a degree in English Literature. More importantly, she taught me the value of critical thinking and how to articulate my thoughts clearly and persuasively. Her belief in me boosted my confidence tremendously, encouraging me to participate in debates and writing competitions that I would have previously shied away from.

Perhaps the most significant way she influenced me was by demonstrating the profound impact a teacher can have on their students’ lives. Her example inspired me to consider a career in education, where I hope to pay forward the positive influence she had on me to future generations of students.

Inspiring English teacher

Follow-up Questions:

1. Do you think you’ll stay in touch with this person in the future?
2. How do you think technology has changed the way people influence others?

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):

1. Absolutely. I make it a point to keep in regular contact with Mrs. Johnson. We exchange emails a few times a year, and I often seek her advice on important decisions. Her wisdom and perspective continue to be invaluable to me, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to maintain this meaningful connection.

2. Technology has revolutionized the way influence spreads in our society. Social media platforms, in particular, have given individuals the power to reach and impact a vast audience instantaneously. This has democratized influence, allowing people from all walks of life to share their ideas and inspire others globally. However, it’s also created challenges, such as the spread of misinformation and the pressure to present a curated image online. Ultimately, while technology has amplified our ability to influence others, it’s crucial to use these tools responsibly and critically evaluate the influences we encounter.

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

In this part, the examiner might ask more abstract questions related to influence and role models. Here are some potential questions and answers:

Q: Do you think celebrities have too much influence on young people today?

Band 6-7 Answer:
I think celebrities do have a lot of influence on young people these days. Many teenagers look up to them and try to copy their style or behavior. This can be both good and bad, depending on what the celebrity is like.

Band 8-9 Answer:
The influence of celebrities on youth today is indeed substantial and multifaceted. On one hand, celebrities can serve as powerful catalysts for positive change, using their platforms to raise awareness about important social issues or promote charitable causes. Many young people are inspired by celebrities who advocate for education, environmental protection, or mental health awareness.

However, there’s a valid concern that this influence may be disproportionate to celebrities’ expertise or qualifications in certain areas. The cult of personality surrounding many celebrities can lead young people to emulate behaviors or adopt beliefs without critical evaluation. This becomes particularly problematic when celebrities promote unrealistic beauty standards, endorse questionable products, or display harmful behaviors.

Ultimately, I believe the key lies in media literacy education. By teaching young people to critically analyze the messages they receive and to seek out diverse role models beyond just the entertainment industry, we can help them navigate celebrity influence more judiciously. It’s about striking a balance between appreciating the positive aspects of celebrity influence while maintaining a healthy skepticism and independent thought.

Q: How has the concept of role models changed over the generations?

Band 8-9 Answer:
The concept of role models has undergone a significant evolution over generations, reflecting broader societal changes. In the past, role models were often local figures – teachers, community leaders, or family members who had a direct impact on people’s lives. There was also a tendency to view national leaders, scientists, and historical figures as role models, emphasizing qualities like duty, sacrifice, and intellectual achievement.

In recent decades, we’ve seen a shift towards a more diverse and global pool of role models. This change has been driven by several factors:

1. Globalization and technology: The internet and social media have exposed people to a wider range of potential role models from different cultures and backgrounds.

2. Changing social values: There’s been an increased emphasis on representation, leading to the celebration of role models from previously marginalized groups.

3. Rise of entrepreneurship: Successful entrepreneurs and innovators are now often seen as role models, reflecting a cultural shift towards valuing creativity and disruption.

4. Authenticity and relatability: There’s a growing appreciation for role models who show vulnerability and share their struggles, not just their successes.

5. Influencer culture: Social media influencers have emerged as a new category of role models, particularly for younger generations.

This evolution has both positive and negative aspects. On the positive side, it has broadened the definition of success and provided more diverse examples for people to aspire to. However, it has also led to concerns about the superficiality of some modern role models and the potential for misinformation spread by influential figures without traditional credentials.

In conclusion, while the core concept of looking up to admirable individuals remains, the characteristics we value in role models and the ways we interact with them have adapted to our changing world. This underscores the importance of critical thinking and discernment in choosing who we allow to influence us.

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

To achieve a high band score, it’s crucial to use a range of sophisticated vocabulary and phrases. Here are some examples:

1. Profound impact /prəˈfaʊnd ɪmˈpækt/ (adj. + n.): A deep and significant effect
   Example: Her mentor’s guidance had a profound impact on her career choices.

2. Exemplary /ɪɡˈzempləri/ (adj.): Serving as a desirable model; very good
   Example: His exemplary work ethic inspired everyone in the office.

3. Transformative /trænsˈfɔːrmətɪv/ (adj.): Causing a major change to something or someone
   Example: The experience was transformative, completely changing her worldview.

4. Articulate /ɑːrˈtɪkjuleɪt/ (v.): Express (an idea or feeling) fluently and coherently
   Example: She articulated her vision for the company clearly and convincingly.

5. Catalyst /ˈkætəlɪst/ (n.): A person or thing that precipitates an event or change
   Example: His speech acted as a catalyst for the social movement.

6. Judiciously /dʒuːˈdɪʃəsli/ (adv.): With good judgment or sense
   Example: He judiciously chose his words to avoid any misunderstanding.

Tips from an IELTS Examiner

As an experienced IELTS examiner, here are my top tips for scoring high on this task:

1. Prepare diverse examples: Have several people in mind who have influenced you positively. This allows you to choose the most appropriate example for the specific question.

2. Structure your answer: Use the cue card points as a guide, but add your own structure to make your answer cohesive and logical.

3. Use specific examples: Don’t just list qualities; provide concrete examples of how the person demonstrated these qualities and influenced you.

4. Show reflection: Demonstrate that you’ve thought deeply about the person’s influence on you. This shows maturity and critical thinking skills.

5. Practice, but don’t memorize: While it’s good to prepare, avoid memorizing answers. Examiners can tell, and it affects your naturalness and fluency scores.

6. Extend your answers in Part 3: This is your chance to show off your ability to discuss abstract ideas. Don’t just give short answers; elaborate and give examples.

Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is to communicate clearly, use a range of vocabulary and structures, and engage with the topics thoughtfully. With practice and these strategies, you’ll be well-prepared to describe a person who has positively influenced your life and ace your IELTS Speaking test.

For more IELTS Speaking tips and sample answers, check out our articles on describing a public figure who has influenced you and describing a person who has made a significant impact on your career.