The IELTS Speaking test is a crucial component of the IELTS exam, assessing your ability to communicate effectively in English. One common topic that often appears is describing people, particularly those who stand out for their unique qualities or approaches to life. In this article, we’ll explore how to excel in answering questions about “a person who has a unique approach to life” and provide valuable tips to help you achieve a high band score.
IELTS Speaking Test
Understanding the IELTS Speaking Test Structure
Before diving into our specific topic, let’s briefly review the structure of the IELTS Speaking test:
- Part 1: Introduction and Interview (4-5 minutes)
- Part 2: Individual Long Turn (3-4 minutes)
- Part 3: Two-way Discussion (4-5 minutes)
Each part assesses different aspects of your speaking skills, from basic conversation to more complex discussions. Now, let’s focus on how to approach questions about a person with a unique approach to life.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
While the main topic will likely appear in Part 2, you might encounter related questions in Part 1. Here are some possible questions and sample answers:
Q: Do you know anyone with an unusual lifestyle?
A: Yes, I have a friend who lives off the grid in a tiny house he built himself. He’s completely self-sufficient, growing his own food and using solar power. It’s quite fascinating to see how he’s adapted to such a different way of life.
Q: What do you think makes a person unique?
A: I believe what makes a person unique is a combination of their experiences, beliefs, and how they choose to navigate life. Someone who thinks outside the box and isn’t afraid to challenge conventional wisdom often stands out as unique to me.
Part 2: Individual Long Turn
In this section, you’ll be given a cue card with a topic and prompts. Here’s an example related to our theme:
Describe a person who has a unique approach to life.
You should say:
- Who this person is
- How you know this person
- What makes their approach to life unique
- And explain how you feel about their approach to life
Here’s a sample answer:
“I’d like to talk about my uncle, Mark, who has a truly unique approach to life. I’ve known him since childhood, as he’s my mother’s younger brother, and he’s always been the eccentric one in our family.
What makes Mark’s approach to life unique is his unconventional career path and lifestyle choices. Unlike most people who settle into a 9-to-5 job, Mark has embraced a nomadic lifestyle. He works as a freelance photographer and travel writer, constantly moving from one place to another. He’s never owned a house or a car, preferring to live out of a backpack and use public transportation or hitchhike.
Mark’s philosophy is all about minimalism and experiences over possessions. He believes that true wealth lies in the richness of one’s experiences, not in material goods. This mindset has led him to visit over 100 countries, immersing himself in diverse cultures and capturing breathtaking moments through his camera lens.
What I find most admirable about Mark’s approach is his unwavering commitment to his passions. He’s sacrificed the stability and comfort that many people seek in favor of a life filled with adventure and constant learning. While his lifestyle might seem daunting or even irresponsible to some, I find it incredibly inspiring.
Mark’s unique approach to life has taught me the importance of following your dreams, even if they don’t align with societal norms. His stories and photographs have opened my eyes to the beauty and diversity of the world, encouraging me to step out of my comfort zone more often.
In conclusion, while I may not be ready to adopt Mark’s nomadic lifestyle fully, his unconventional choices and zest for life have certainly influenced my own perspective, reminding me to prioritize experiences and remain open to new possibilities.”
Possible follow-up questions:
Q: Do you think it’s easy to maintain such an unconventional lifestyle?
A: While it certainly has its appeal, maintaining such a lifestyle requires a great deal of adaptability and resilience. It’s not for everyone, as it often means sacrificing stability and long-term relationships. However, for those who thrive on change and new experiences, it can be incredibly rewarding.
Q: How do you think society views people with unconventional lifestyles?
A: Society’s views on unconventional lifestyles are gradually shifting. While there’s still some skepticism, there’s also growing admiration for those who dare to live differently. Social media has played a role in normalizing alternative lifestyles, allowing people to share their unique experiences with a wider audience.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In this section, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:
Q: Do you think modern society encourages or discourages unique approaches to life?
A: I believe it’s a double-edged sword. On one hand, modern society, especially with the rise of social media, has created platforms for people to showcase and celebrate their unique lifestyles. This has fostered a culture of individuality and encouraged people to explore alternative paths.
However, there’s also immense pressure to conform to certain societal standards, particularly when it comes to career choices and material success. The traditional metrics of success, such as owning a home or climbing the corporate ladder, are still deeply ingrained in many cultures.
That being said, I think we’re seeing a gradual shift towards more acceptance of diverse lifestyles. The gig economy and remote work opportunities have made it more feasible for people to pursue unconventional careers. Additionally, there’s a growing emphasis on work-life balance and personal fulfillment, which is conducive to unique approaches to life.
Q: What are the potential benefits and drawbacks of having a unique approach to life?
A: The benefits of having a unique approach to life can be numerous and profound. Firstly, it often leads to a more fulfilling and authentic existence, as individuals are living in alignment with their true values and passions. This can result in greater personal satisfaction and sense of purpose.
Moreover, those with unique approaches to life often develop exceptional problem-solving skills and creativity, as they’re constantly navigating situations that don’t fit the conventional mold. They may also inspire others to think differently and challenge the status quo, potentially leading to innovation and social progress.
However, there are also potential drawbacks. People with very unique lifestyles may face social isolation or misunderstanding from those who don’t share their perspective. They might struggle with financial stability if their approach doesn’t align well with traditional economic systems. Additionally, constantly going against the grain can be emotionally taxing and may lead to burnout if not managed carefully.
Ultimately, I believe the key is finding a balance that allows for personal authenticity while still maintaining connections with others and ensuring basic needs are met.
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:
Unconventional /ʌnkənˈvenʃənl/: Not based on or conforming to what is generally done or believed.
Example: “His unconventional career choice raised eyebrows in our traditional community.”Paradigm shift /ˈpærəˌdaɪm ʃɪft/: A fundamental change in approach or underlying assumptions.
Example: “Her decision to live off-grid represented a paradigm shift in her approach to consumption and sustainability.”Avant-garde /ˌævɒntˈɡɑːd/: New and experimental ideas and methods in art, music, or literature.
Example: “His avant-garde lifestyle challenges societal norms and inspires others to think differently.”Iconoclast /aɪˈkɒnəklæst/: A person who attacks or criticizes cherished beliefs or institutions.
Example: “He’s seen as an iconoclast in the business world for his radical approach to corporate culture.”Trailblazer /ˈtreɪlˌbleɪzər/: A person who makes a new track through wild country; a pioneer.
Example: “She’s a trailblazer in sustainable living, showing others how to reduce their environmental impact.”
Examiner’s Advice for High Scores
To excel in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when describing a person with a unique approach to life:
Use diverse vocabulary: Incorporate a range of descriptive words and idiomatic expressions to showcase your language proficiency.
Provide specific examples: Support your points with concrete examples from the person’s life or actions.
Show critical thinking: Don’t just describe, but analyze and reflect on the impact of the person’s unique approach.
Maintain fluency: Practice speaking on various topics to improve your ability to express ideas smoothly and coherently.
Engage with the examiner: Show enthusiasm for the topic and be ready to expand on your answers when prompted.
By following these tips and using the sample answers as inspiration, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle questions about unique individuals in your IELTS Speaking test. Remember, the key is to showcase your English language skills while expressing your thoughts clearly and confidently.
For more practice on describing people in IELTS Speaking, check out these related topics:
- Describe a person who is very good at giving advice
- Describe a person who is very creative in their thinking
Good luck with your IELTS preparation!