In the IELTS Speaking test, one common question that may appear in Part 2 of the exam is describing a person who has a strong personality. This topic not only tests your vocabulary and fluency but also your ability to structure your thoughts coherently. As an IELTS examiner, I will provide you with a detailed guide on how to approach and effectively answer such a question. We’ll cover potential questions, sample answers, and useful vocabulary to help you score high.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
Common Questions
In Part 1 of the IELTS Speaking test, the examiner typically asks general questions about your life, interests, and habits. These questions help you warm up before the more challenging tasks ahead.
Example Question:
Q: Do you think you have a strong personality? Why or why not?
Suggested Answer:
“I believe I do have a strong personality because I am confident and determined in achieving my goals. For example, when I decide to undertake a project, I ensure I follow through with it until completion. Additionally, I am assertive in voicing my opinions, which I think are key characteristics of a strong personality.”
Part 2: Long Turn
In Part 2, you will be given a cue card with a specific topic and some bullet points to guide your talk. You need to speak for 1 to 2 minutes without interruption.
Cue Card Example
Describe a person who has a strong personality. You should say:
- Who the person is
- How you know this person
- What kind of personality this person has
- And explain why you think this person has a strong personality
Sample Answer
“One person I know who has a strong personality is my friend, Jane. Jane and I have been friends since college, and during all these years, her resilience and determination have always impressed me. She is incredibly self-assured and motivated. For example, despite numerous setbacks in her career, she never gave up. Instead, she worked even harder and eventually achieved her goals. Her unwavering confidence and ability to stay focused under pressure are why I believe she has a strong personality.”
Follow-up Questions
Q: How does Jane’s strong personality affect her relationships with others?
Suggested Answer:
“Jane’s strong personality positively influences her relationships. She’s a genuine confidante who is never afraid to give honest feedback. While some people may initially find her forthrightness overwhelming, they soon appreciate her sincerity and integrity. Moreover, she motivates those around her to be their best, which makes her a very inspiring individual.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In this part, the discussion becomes more abstract and you are expected to express your views and justify them.
Example Questions and Answers
Q: How important is it to have a strong personality in the workplace?
A: “Having a strong personality in the workplace is crucial as it often correlates with better leadership and decision-making abilities. Individuals with strong personalities are usually more confident and can handle stressful situations efficiently. They are also often assertive, which allows them to communicate their ideas clearly and take on leadership roles effectively.”
Q: Can a strong personality sometimes be a disadvantage?
A: “Yes, a strong personality can be a double-edged sword. While it brings many advantages, it can sometimes be perceived as overbearing or intimidating. People with strong personalities need to be aware of this and learn to balance their assertiveness with empathy and understanding to avoid potential conflicts.”
Key Vocabulary and Structures for High Scores
To excel in the IELTS Speaking test, it’s essential to use the right vocabulary and structure your responses clearly.
Useful Vocabulary
- Resilient /rɪˈzɪliənt/: (adj) able to recover quickly from difficult conditions
- Determined /dɪˈtɜːmɪnd/: (adj) having made a firm decision and being resolved not to change it
- Assertive /əˈsɜːtɪv/: (adj) having a confident and forceful personality
- Self-assured /ˌselfəˈʃʊəd/: (adj) confident in one’s own abilities or character
- Integrity /ɪnˈteɡrɪti/: (noun) the quality of being honest and having strong moral principles
Example Uses
- Resilient: “Jane is incredibly resilient; even after failing multiple times, she always manages to bounce back.”
- Determined: “Her determined nature drives her to accomplish any task she sets her mind to.”
- Assertive: “Being assertive helps her lead the team effectively without being aggressive.”
- Self-assured: “Her self-assured attitude makes her a natural leader.”
- Integrity: “Her integrity is unquestionable; she always sticks to her values no matter the circumstances.”
Tips and Advice
Practice Regularly
Regular practice is key to improving your speaking skills. Record yourself speaking on a variety of topics and review the recordings to identify areas of improvement.
Expand Your Vocabulary
Make a habit of learning new words daily. Use them in sentences to ensure you understand their context and meaning.
Seek Feedback
Practice speaking with friends or teachers who can provide constructive feedback on your fluency, coherence, and pronunciation.
Stay Calm and Composed
During the test, staying calm will help you think more clearly and speak more fluently. Take a deep breath if you find yourself getting nervous.
By following these guidelines and practicing regularly, you can significantly improve your speaking skills and achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test.
Example of Person with Strong Personality
For more resources on improving your IELTS Speaking skills, check out other helpful articles such as Describe a person who has a good sense of humor, Describe a time when you felt very confident, and Describe a person who has a good sense of style.