Mastering IELTS Speaking: How to Describe Your Role Model with Confidence

IELTS Mentor

2 months ago

The topic “describe a person who has been a role model to you” is a common theme in IELTS Speaking tests. It allows examiners to assess your ability to articulate personal experiences and express opinions about influential figures in your life. This topic has appeared frequently in past IELTS exams and is likely to remain relevant in future tests. Let’s explore how to approach this topic effectively across all parts of the IELTS Speaking test.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about role models and influences. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:

Q: Do you have any role models?

Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I do. I think it’s important to have people we look up to and learn from. My main role model is my high school math teacher. She really inspired me to work hard and pursue my goals.

Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely. I believe having role models is crucial for personal growth and development. My primary role model is my high school mathematics teacher, Mrs. Johnson. Her passion for education and dedication to her students not only inspired me academically but also shaped my perspective on the importance of lifelong learning and giving back to the community.

Q: What qualities do you think make a good role model?

Band 6-7 Answer:
I think good role models should be honest, hardworking, and kind. They should also be able to overcome challenges and set a positive example for others.

Band 8-9 Answer:
In my opinion, the qualities that define an exemplary role model are multifaceted. Firstly, integrity is paramount – a good role model should consistently demonstrate ethical behavior and moral courage. Secondly, resilience in the face of adversity is crucial, as it teaches others how to persevere through challenges. Additionally, empathy and the ability to inspire others are essential traits that can motivate people to strive for personal growth and contribute positively to society.

Describe a person who makes you feel calm can be another interesting topic to explore in the IELTS Speaking test, as it allows you to discuss personal relationships and emotional influences.

Part 2: Long Turn

In this section, you’ll be given a cue card with a specific topic to discuss. Here’s an example cue card related to describing a role model:

Describe a person who has been a role model to you

You should say:
- Who this person is
- How you know this person
- What qualities this person has
- And explain why this person is a role model to you

Band 6-7 Answer:

I’d like to talk about my uncle, John, who has been a role model to me for many years. He’s my father’s younger brother, and I’ve known him since I was a child. We often spend time together during family gatherings and holidays.

My uncle John is a successful businessman who started his own company from scratch. He’s very hardworking and always puts in extra hours to make sure his business runs smoothly. Despite being busy, he always makes time for his family and friends.

One of the qualities I admire most about him is his positive attitude. No matter what challenges he faces, he always stays optimistic and looks for solutions. He’s also very generous and often helps people in need, whether it’s through donations or by offering his time and advice.

I consider him a role model because he shows that with determination and hard work, you can achieve your dreams. He’s taught me the importance of balancing professional success with personal relationships. His ability to stay positive in difficult situations has inspired me to develop a more optimistic outlook on life.

Band 8-9 Answer:

I’d like to discuss my uncle, Dr. John Smith, who has been an influential role model in my life for over two decades. As my father’s younger brother, I’ve had the privilege of observing his personal and professional journey since childhood, particularly during our frequent family gatherings and annual vacations.

Dr. Smith is a renowned cardiothoracic surgeon who has made significant contributions to his field. His career trajectory is nothing short of inspirational – starting from humble beginnings, he worked tirelessly to become one of the top surgeons in the country. What sets him apart is not just his professional acumen, but also his unwavering commitment to both his patients and his family.

One of his most admirable qualities is his exceptional work ethic. He consistently goes above and beyond in his professional duties, often working long hours to ensure the best possible outcomes for his patients. Despite his demanding schedule, he prioritizes work-life balance, making time for family events and maintaining strong personal relationships.

Another trait that I find particularly inspiring is his resilience in the face of adversity. Throughout his career, he has encountered numerous challenges, but his ability to maintain composure and find innovative solutions has been remarkable. This resilience is coupled with a genuine empathy for others, evident in the way he interacts with his patients and supports various charitable causes.

I consider Dr. Smith a role model because he embodies the perfect balance of professional excellence and personal integrity. His journey has taught me the value of perseverance, the importance of continuous learning, and the impact one can have by combining skill with compassion. His approach to life has inspired me to set high standards for myself, both in my career aspirations and in my interactions with others.

Moreover, his dedication to giving back to the community through pro bono surgeries and mentoring young doctors has instilled in me a strong sense of social responsibility. Dr. Smith’s example has motivated me to not only strive for personal success but also to use my skills and resources to make a positive difference in society.

A role model inspiring others

Follow-up questions:

How has this person influenced your career choices?
Do you think you might become a role model for others in the future?

Band 6-7 Answers:

My uncle’s success has definitely influenced my career aspirations. Seeing how he built his business from the ground up has made me interested in entrepreneurship.
I hope so. I try to set a good example for my younger siblings and cousins. Maybe in the future, I can inspire others through my work or volunteer activities.

Band 8-9 Answers:

Dr. Smith’s career has had a profound impact on my professional aspirations. While I haven’t chosen to pursue medicine, his dedication to excellence and continuous learning has inspired me to seek a career that allows me to make a meaningful contribution to society. His example has taught me the importance of choosing a path that aligns with my passions and values, rather than simply pursuing financial success.
I certainly aspire to become a positive role model for others. I believe that leading by example is one of the most effective ways to inspire change. By striving for excellence in my chosen field, maintaining ethical standards, and actively contributing to my community, I hope to positively influence those around me. Additionally, I’m committed to mentoring younger individuals, sharing the valuable lessons I’ve learned from my own role models, and encouraging others to pursue their full potential.

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 celebrities make good role models for young people?

Band 6-7 Answer:
I think some celebrities can be good role models, but not all of them. Some celebrities use their fame to do good things, like raising money for charities. But others don’t set a good example with their behavior. Young people should be careful about who they choose to look up to.

Band 8-9 Answer:
The influence of celebrities as role models for young people is a complex and nuanced issue. On one hand, many celebrities leverage their platform to champion important causes, raise awareness about social issues, and demonstrate the rewards of hard work and talent. Their success stories can be inspirational and motivate young people to pursue their dreams.

However, we must also consider the potential drawbacks. The public often sees a curated version of celebrities’ lives, which may not reflect reality. This can lead to unrealistic expectations and unhealthy comparisons. Moreover, some celebrities engage in controversial behavior that can negatively influence impressionable youth.

Ultimately, I believe that while some celebrities can indeed be positive role models, it’s crucial for young people to develop critical thinking skills and seek diverse role models, including those from their immediate communities who demonstrate everyday acts of integrity and kindness.

Q: How has the concept of role models changed with the rise of social media?

Band 6-7 Answer:
Social media has definitely changed how we view role models. Now, people can become famous very quickly through platforms like Instagram or YouTube. This means there are more diverse role models available. However, it’s also easier for people to present a fake image of themselves online, which can be misleading.

Band 8-9 Answer:
The advent of social media has fundamentally transformed the landscape of role models in several significant ways. Firstly, it has democratized influence, allowing individuals from diverse backgrounds to gain a platform and showcase their talents, ideas, or lifestyles. This has led to a broader spectrum of role models, potentially making it easier for young people to find relatable figures who resonate with their specific interests or experiences.

However, this shift also presents challenges. The ephemeral nature of social media fame can result in fleeting role models who may not have the depth of experience or the long-term commitment to positive values that traditional role models often embodied. Additionally, the curated nature of social media content can create unrealistic standards and foster a culture of comparison, potentially impacting young people’s self-esteem and mental health.

Moreover, the line between authenticity and performance has become increasingly blurred on social media platforms. While this can lead to more transparent and relatable role models, it also requires users to develop strong critical thinking skills to discern genuine influence from mere self-promotion.

In conclusion, while social media has undoubtedly expanded the pool of potential role models and increased accessibility, it has also complicated the process of identifying truly inspirational figures. This underscores the importance of media literacy education to help young people navigate this complex landscape and choose role models wisely.

Describe a person who is always calm under pressure is another relevant topic that can help you discuss qualities often associated with role models.

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

To elevate your responses and demonstrate a sophisticated command of English, consider incorporating these advanced vocabulary items and phrases:

Influential /ˌɪnfluˈenʃəl/ (adjective): Having great influence on someone or something.
Example: “My teacher was an influential figure in shaping my career path.”
Exemplify /ɪɡˈzemplɪfaɪ/ (verb): To be a typical example of something.
Example: “Her actions exemplify the qualities of a true leader.”
Integrity /ɪnˈteɡrəti/ (noun): The quality of being honest and having strong moral principles.
Example: “His unwavering integrity in the face of temptation was admirable.”
Resilience /rɪˈzɪliəns/ (noun): The capacity to recover quickly from difficulties.
Example: “Her resilience in overcoming obstacles inspired everyone around her.”
Altruism /ˈæltruːɪzəm/ (noun): The belief in or practice of selfless concern for the well-being of others.
Example: “His altruism was evident in his dedication to volunteer work.”
Emulate /ˈemjuleɪt/ (verb): To match or surpass (a person or achievement), typically by imitation.
Example: “Many young entrepreneurs try to emulate the success of tech giants.”
Paradigm /ˈpærədaɪm/ (noun): A typical example or pattern of something; a model.
Example: “She became a paradigm of success for aspiring women in STEM fields.”
Paragon /ˈpærəɡən/ (noun): A person or thing regarded as a perfect example of a particular quality.
Example: “He was considered a paragon of virtue in his community.”

Infographic showcasing key qualities of role models

Examiner’s Advice

To excel in the IELTS Speaking test when discussing role models:

Prepare diverse examples: Have several role models in mind from different areas of life (family, profession, public figures) to demonstrate versatility.
Focus on specific qualities: Instead of general praise, highlight particular traits or actions that make the person admirable.
Use personal anecdotes: Relate how the role model has directly influenced your life or decisions to make your answer more engaging and authentic.
Practice articulating abstract ideas: Be prepared to discuss the concept of role models in general, not just specific individuals.
Develop your vocabulary: Incorporate advanced vocabulary related to personal qualities and influence to enhance the sophistication of your responses.
Stay relevant: While elaborating on your chosen role model, ensure your answer remains focused on the question asked.
Show critical thinking: Demonstrate your ability to analyze the impact of role models on society and individuals.

By following these guidelines and incorporating the suggested vocabulary, you’ll be well-prepared to discuss role models confidently in your IELTS Speaking test. Remember, practice is key to improving your fluency and coherence when expressing these ideas.

Describe a film character who impressed you can be an excellent way to practice discussing fictional role models, broadening your range of examples for the IELTS Speaking test.