The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about people who have influenced or assisted us in our lives. One common topic is describing a person who has helped you achieve something important. This article will guide you through answering such questions effectively, providing sample responses and key strategies to boost your IELTS Speaking 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 helped you achieve something important. They want to assess your ability to:
- Provide a clear and detailed description of a person
- Explain the importance of their help
- Discuss the impact of their assistance on your life
- Use appropriate vocabulary and grammar
- Speak fluently and coherently
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, the examiner may ask general questions about people who have helped you. Here are some possible questions and sample answers:
Q: Do you often ask for help when you need to achieve something?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I do ask for help sometimes. I think it’s important to be independent, but I also know that asking for help can be really useful when I’m facing a difficult task.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely. While I value self-reliance, I’m also a firm believer in the power of collaboration. I’ve found that seeking assistance, particularly from those with expertise in specific areas, can be instrumental in achieving goals more efficiently and effectively.
Q: Who do you usually turn to when you need help?
Band 6-7 Answer:
I usually turn to my family or close friends when I need help. They know me well and can often give good advice or support.
Band 8-9 Answer:
My support network is quite diverse. Depending on the nature of the challenge, I might consult my parents for their wisdom and life experience, collaborate with colleagues for work-related issues, or seek guidance from mentors in my field of study. Each person brings a unique perspective that can be invaluable in overcoming obstacles.
Part 2: Long Turn
In this section, you’ll be given a cue card with a topic and some bullet points. Here’s an example related to our theme:
Cue Card
Describe a person who has helped you achieve something important.
You should say:
- Who this person is
- How you know this person
- What they helped you achieve
- And explain why their help was important to you
Band 6-7 Sample Answer:
I’d like to talk about my high school math teacher, Mr. Johnson. I met him when I was 16 years old and struggling with advanced mathematics. He helped me pass my final exams with a good grade, which was really important for getting into university.
Mr. Johnson was different from other teachers because he took the time to understand why I was having trouble. He stayed after school to give me extra help and explained things in a way that made sense to me. He used real-life examples that made the math concepts easier to understand.
His help was important because without it, I might not have passed my exams. This would have made it much harder to get into the university I wanted. Also, he taught me that with hard work and the right support, I could overcome challenges. This gave me more confidence in my abilities.
Thanks to Mr. Johnson, I not only achieved a good grade but also developed a better attitude towards learning difficult subjects. His help made a big difference in my academic career and my confidence.
Band 8-9 Sample Answer:
I’d like to discuss my mentor, Dr. Sarah Chen, a renowned researcher in the field of environmental science. I had the privilege of meeting her during my undergraduate studies when I attended a guest lecture she delivered at my university.
Dr. Chen played a pivotal role in helping me achieve my goal of conducting original research and publishing a paper in a peer-reviewed journal – a significant milestone for an undergraduate student. Her expertise and guidance were instrumental in shaping my research methodology and refining my analytical skills.
What set Dr. Chen apart was her holistic approach to mentorship. She not only provided technical insights but also shared valuable lessons on scientific integrity, perseverance, and the importance of collaboration in research. Under her tutelage, I learned to critically analyze data, formulate compelling arguments, and communicate complex ideas effectively.
Her assistance was invaluable for several reasons. Firstly, it elevated the quality of my research, enabling me to make a meaningful contribution to the field. Secondly, the experience of working alongside such an esteemed scientist significantly boosted my confidence and reinforced my passion for environmental science. Lastly, her mentorship opened doors to networking opportunities within the scientific community, which have proven beneficial for my academic and professional growth.
Dr. Chen’s support transcended the immediate goal of publishing a paper. She instilled in me a deep appreciation for rigorous scientific inquiry and the potential of research to drive positive change. This experience has been a cornerstone of my academic journey, profoundly influencing my decision to pursue a career in environmental research.
IELTS Speaking Mentor
Follow-up Questions
- How did this person’s help change your perspective on achieving goals?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Mr. Johnson’s help changed how I think about achieving goals. I learned that it’s okay to ask for help and that with hard work and support, I can overcome difficult challenges.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Dr. Chen’s mentorship fundamentally altered my perspective on achieving goals. She demonstrated that success is not merely about individual brilliance but also about leveraging collective knowledge and building strong professional relationships. Her guidance instilled in me the importance of setting ambitious yet attainable goals, and the value of perseverance in the face of setbacks. Moreover, she showed me that true achievement often lies in the journey of growth and learning, rather than just the end result.
- Do you think it’s important to acknowledge the help we receive from others?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I think it’s very important to acknowledge help from others. It shows gratitude and helps maintain good relationships. It also encourages people to help again in the future.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely. Acknowledging the assistance we receive from others is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it fosters a culture of appreciation and reinforces positive social interactions. Secondly, it promotes humility by reminding us that our achievements are often the result of collaborative efforts. Furthermore, expressing gratitude can strengthen professional and personal relationships, creating a supportive network that can be mutually beneficial in the long run. Lastly, it encourages a pay-it-forward mentality, inspiring us to help others in turn, thus creating a virtuous cycle of support and achievement.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In this part, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some possible questions and sample answers:
Q: How has the concept of mentorship evolved in recent years?
Band 6-7 Answer:
I think mentorship has changed a lot recently. With technology, people can now have mentors from anywhere in the world. Also, mentorship isn’t just for young people anymore; even experienced professionals seek mentors to help them grow in their careers.
Band 8-9 Answer:
The concept of mentorship has undergone a significant transformation in recent years. Traditionally, mentorship was often viewed as a hierarchical relationship between a seasoned professional and a novice. However, modern mentorship has evolved into a more dynamic and multifaceted interaction.
Firstly, technology has revolutionized the mentorship landscape. Virtual mentoring platforms and social media have transcended geographical boundaries, allowing mentees to connect with mentors globally. This has democratized access to expertise and diverse perspectives.
Secondly, there’s been a shift towards reciprocal mentorship, where both parties benefit from the exchange of ideas. This acknowledges that even experienced professionals can learn from younger generations, particularly in areas like technology and emerging trends.
Moreover, the concept of peer mentoring has gained traction, recognizing that individuals at similar career stages can offer valuable support and insights to each other. This has led to the rise of mentoring circles and group mentorship programs.
Lastly, there’s an increasing emphasis on diversity and inclusion in mentorship. Organizations are recognizing the importance of providing mentorship opportunities to underrepresented groups, helping to bridge gaps in professional development and advancement.
These evolving trends reflect a broader understanding of mentorship as a crucial tool for personal and professional growth, adaptable to the changing needs of the modern workforce.
Q: In what ways do you think society benefits when people help each other achieve their goals?
Band 6-7 Answer:
I believe society benefits a lot when people help each other. It creates a sense of community and makes everyone feel supported. When people achieve their goals, they often give back to society, which can lead to progress and innovation.
Band 8-9 Answer:
The societal benefits of mutual support in achieving goals are manifold and far-reaching. Firstly, it fosters a culture of collaboration that can lead to enhanced innovation and problem-solving. When individuals pool their diverse skills and knowledge, they can tackle complex challenges more effectively.
Secondly, this culture of mutual assistance contributes to social cohesion. It builds stronger communities by creating networks of trust and reciprocity. This can lead to increased social capital, which is crucial for a well-functioning society.
Moreover, when people help each other achieve their goals, it often results in a more equitable distribution of opportunities. This can help bridge socioeconomic gaps and promote social mobility, leading to a more balanced and just society.
From an economic perspective, mutual support can boost productivity and economic growth. When individuals are able to realize their full potential with the help of others, it often translates into increased innovation, entrepreneurship, and overall economic output.
Lastly, a society where mutual support is the norm tends to have higher levels of collective well-being. The act of helping others and being helped can boost mental health, reduce stress, and increase overall life satisfaction. This positive psychological impact can ripple through society, creating a more optimistic and resilient populace.
In essence, when people help each other achieve their goals, it creates a virtuous cycle of progress, innovation, and social harmony that benefits society as a whole.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases
To enhance your IELTS Speaking performance, incorporate these advanced words and phrases:
Instrumental (adj) /ˌɪnstrəˈmentl/ – Very important in making something happen
Example: Her advice was instrumental in my decision to pursue a career in medicine.Pivotal (adj) /ˈpɪvətl/ – Of crucial importance in relation to the development or success of something else
Example: Meeting my mentor was a pivotal moment in my career.Holistic approach (noun phrase) /həʊˈlɪstɪk əˈprəʊtʃ/ – An approach that considers the whole person or situation, not just individual parts
Example: My mentor took a holistic approach to my development, focusing on both technical skills and personal growth.To instill (verb) /ɪnˈstɪl/ – To gradually but firmly establish an idea or attitude in a person’s mind
Example: My teacher instilled in me a love for literature.Transcend (verb) /trænˈsend/ – To go beyond the usual limits of something
Example: The impact of her mentorship transcended mere academic achievement.
Tips from an IELTS Speaking Examiner
As an experienced IELTS examiner, I recommend the following strategies to excel in the Speaking test:
Practice regularly: Engage in English conversations daily to improve fluency and confidence.
Expand your vocabulary: Learn new words and phrases related to common IELTS topics and use them in context.
Use specific examples: When describing experiences or opinions, provide concrete examples to support your points.
Develop your ideas: Don’t just give short answers. Elaborate on your thoughts and provide reasons for your opinions.
Work on pronunciation: Focus on clear articulation and natural intonation to enhance your communication skills.
Stay calm and composed: Remember that the examiner is there to assess your English, not to trick you. Stay relaxed and showcase your best language skills.
By following these tips and using the sample answers as inspiration, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle questions about people who have helped you achieve important goals in your IELTS Speaking test. Remember, practice makes perfect, so keep honing your skills and expanding your English vocabulary. Good luck with your IELTS journey!
For more IELTS Speaking practice, check out our articles on describing a time when you learned something valuable outside of school and describing a person who inspires you to keep learning.