The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about people who have influenced us or have interesting characteristics. One such topic that frequently appears is describing a person with a unique perspective on life. This article will provide you with valuable tips and sample answers to help you excel in this part of the IELTS Speaking test.

IELTS Speaking Test Preparation

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In this section, the examiner may ask you general questions about unique individuals or perspectives on life. Here’s a sample question and answer:

Q: Do you know anyone with an unusual outlook on life?

A: (Band 7-8 answer) Yes, I do. My grandmother has always had a rather unconventional approach to life. She believes in living each day to the fullest and often says that age is just a number. Despite being in her 80s, she still travels extensively and takes up new hobbies regularly, which I find quite inspiring.

Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)

Here’s a sample cue card related to describing a person with a unique perspective on life:

Describe A Person Who Has A Unique Perspective On Life.
You should say:

• Who this person is
• How you know them
• What their unique perspective is
• And explain why you think their perspective is unique

Sample Answer (Band 7-8)

I’d like to talk about my friend Sarah, who I’ve known since university. Sarah has a truly unique perspective on life that I find both intriguing and inspiring.

I met Sarah during our first year of college when we were assigned as roommates. Initially, I was taken aback by her unconventional approach to life, but over time, I came to appreciate her distinctive worldview.

Sarah’s unique perspective revolves around the idea of “conscious living”. She firmly believes that every action we take should be intentional and meaningful. This philosophy extends to all aspects of her life – from her career choices to her relationships and even her daily routines.

What makes Sarah’s perspective so unique is her unwavering commitment to living according to her principles. For instance, she chose a career in sustainable architecture, even though it meant turning down more lucrative job offers. She meticulously plans her meals to minimize food waste and opts for experiences over material possessions.

I find her perspective unique because it challenges the status quo and encourages a more mindful approach to life. In a world that often prioritizes material success and instant gratification, Sarah’s focus on intentional living and long-term impact is refreshing and thought-provoking.

Sample Answer (Band 8-9)

I’d like to talk about my mentor, Dr. Amelia Chen, a renowned physicist whom I met during my postgraduate studies. Dr. Chen possesses a truly extraordinary perspective on life that has profoundly influenced my own worldview.

I first encountered Dr. Chen when I attended one of her guest lectures at my university. Captivated by her innovative ideas, I approached her after the talk, and she graciously agreed to become my mentor.

Dr. Chen’s unique perspective centers around what she calls “quantum living”. She draws parallels between quantum physics principles and everyday life, advocating for embracing uncertainty and viewing reality as a spectrum of possibilities rather than fixed outcomes.

What sets Dr. Chen’s perspective apart is her ability to seamlessly integrate complex scientific concepts with practical life philosophy. She applies quantum principles like superposition and entanglement to decision-making and relationships. For instance, she encourages considering multiple potential outcomes simultaneously when faced with important choices, much like a quantum particle existing in multiple states until observed.

I find her perspective exceptionally unique because it bridges the gap between abstract scientific theory and practical wisdom. In a world often divided between scientific and philosophical thinking, Dr. Chen’s approach offers a harmonious synthesis. Her perspective not only challenges conventional wisdom but also provides a framework for navigating life’s complexities with both rationality and openness to the unknown.

Follow-up Questions

Q: How has this person’s unique perspective influenced you?

A: (Band 7-8) Sarah’s perspective has definitely had an impact on me. I’ve become more conscious of my choices and their long-term effects. I now try to live more intentionally, focusing on experiences that align with my values rather than just following societal norms.

A: (Band 8-9) Dr. Chen’s “quantum living” philosophy has profoundly altered my approach to life’s challenges. I’ve learned to embrace uncertainty as a source of opportunity rather than anxiety. This shift in mindset has made me more adaptable and open to diverse possibilities in both my personal and professional life.

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

Q: Do you think having a unique perspective on life is always beneficial?

A: (Band 7-8) While having a unique perspective can be advantageous in many ways, it’s not always beneficial. It can lead to innovative solutions and creative thinking, but it might also result in difficulties fitting into conventional systems or being understood by others. The key is to strike a balance between maintaining your unique viewpoint and adapting to societal norms when necessary.

A: (Band 8-9) The benefits of a unique perspective are multifaceted and context-dependent. On one hand, it can foster innovation, challenge established paradigms, and lead to breakthrough discoveries. This is particularly evident in fields like science and art, where unconventional thinking often drives progress. However, it can also lead to social isolation or professional challenges if the perspective is too divergent from societal norms. The crux lies in leveraging the unique perspective constructively while maintaining the ability to navigate and communicate effectively within existing social and professional frameworks.

Key Vocabulary and Phrases

1. Unconventional approach (adj + n): /ˌʌnkənˈvenʃənl əˈprəʊtʃ/ – Not based on or conforming to what is generally done or believed.
   Example: Her unconventional approach to problem-solving often yields surprising results.

2. Intriguing (adj): /ɪnˈtriːɡɪŋ/ – Very interesting because of being unusual or mysterious.
   Example: I find his intriguing ideas about the future of technology both exciting and a bit unsettling.

3. Mindful (adj): /ˈmaɪndfʊl/ – Conscious or aware of something.
   Example: She practices mindful eating, savoring each bite and paying attention to her body’s signals.

4. To challenge the status quo (phrase): /ˈtʃælɪndʒ ðə ˈsteɪtəs kwəʊ/ – To question or deviate from the existing state of affairs.
   Example: The new CEO aims to challenge the status quo and bring fresh ideas to the company.

5. Quantum living (n): /ˈkwɒntəm ˈlɪvɪŋ/ – A philosophy that applies principles of quantum physics to everyday life.
   Example: Dr. Chen’s concept of quantum living encourages us to see life as full of possibilities rather than fixed outcomes.

Examiner’s Advice

To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test when describing a person with a unique perspective on life:

1. Use a variety of advanced vocabulary and idiomatic expressions relevant to the topic.
2. Provide specific examples to illustrate your points and make your description more vivid.
3. Demonstrate critical thinking by discussing both the positive and potentially challenging aspects of having a unique perspective.
4. Practice speaking fluently and coherently on this topic, focusing on clear pronunciation and natural intonation.
5. Be prepared to discuss the broader implications of unique perspectives in society, showing your ability to analyze complex ideas.

Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is not just about having the right answers, but also about expressing yourself clearly and confidently. Regular practice and exposure to a variety of perspectives will help you achieve your goals in the IELTS Speaking test.