The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about influential people in our lives. One common topic is describing someone who has positively impacted your personal growth. This article will guide you through answering such questions effectively, focusing on the prompt “Describe a person who has helped you become a better person.”
Understanding the IELTS Speaking Test Structure
Before diving into the 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)
Now, let’s explore how to tackle each part when discussing a person who has helped you become better.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about people who have influenced you. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:
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Do you have any role models?
Sample answer: “Yes, I do. I believe having role models is crucial for personal growth. My primary role model is my high school English teacher, who inspired me to pursue language studies and constantly improve myself.”
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How do you think people can positively influence others?
Sample answer: “I think people can positively influence others through their actions, words, and attitudes. Leading by example is particularly powerful. When someone consistently demonstrates kindness, perseverance, or integrity, it naturally inspires those around them to emulate those qualities.”
Part 2: Individual Long Turn
In this section, you’ll receive a cue card with a topic and prompts. Here’s an example related to our main topic:
Cue Card
Describe a person who has helped you become a better person.
You should say:
- Who this person is
- How you know this person
- What this person did to help you
- And explain why you think this person helped you become better
Sample Answer
“I’d like to talk about my grandmother, Sarah, who has been instrumental in shaping me into a better person. I’ve known her my entire life, of course, but our relationship grew especially close during my teenage years when I lived with her for a summer.
My grandmother has always been a pillar of strength and wisdom in our family. During that summer, she took the time to really get to know me and understand my struggles. She helped me in numerous ways, but what stands out most is how she taught me the value of resilience and kindness.
One particular incident I remember vividly is when I was feeling discouraged about a failed project at school. Instead of just offering sympathy, she shared stories from her own life about overcoming setbacks. She then encouraged me to reflect on what I had learned from the experience and how I could apply those lessons in the future.
What makes her influence so profound is her ability to lead by example. She’s always been actively involved in community service, and seeing her dedicate her time to helping others inspired me to do the same. She showed me that true fulfillment comes from contributing to something larger than yourself.
I believe my grandmother helped me become a better person because she didn’t just tell me how to improve; she demonstrated it through her actions. Her unwavering support, combined with her gentle guidance, gave me the confidence to face challenges head-on and strive to make a positive impact on others. Thanks to her influence, I’ve developed a stronger sense of empathy, resilience, and purpose in life.”
Follow-up Questions
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How has this person’s influence changed your perspective on life?
Sample answer: “My grandmother’s influence has profoundly shifted my outlook on life. She’s taught me to see challenges as opportunities for growth rather than insurmountable obstacles. Moreover, her dedication to community service has inspired me to think beyond my personal goals and consider how I can contribute to society at large.”
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In what ways do you try to emulate this person in your daily life?
Sample answer: “I strive to emulate my grandmother’s kindness and resilience in my daily interactions. I make a conscious effort to approach difficulties with a positive mindset, just as she would. Additionally, I’ve started volunteering at a local shelter, following her example of giving back to the community.”
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:
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How do you think role models in society have changed over the years?
Sample answer: “I believe there’s been a significant shift in the types of role models society looks up to. In the past, role models were often public figures like politicians or religious leaders. However, with the rise of social media and increased global connectivity, we’re seeing a more diverse range of role models emerge. Today, influencers, entrepreneurs, and activists often serve as role models, especially for younger generations. This change reflects a broader definition of success and influence in our society. It’s no longer just about traditional markers of achievement but also about making a positive impact and standing up for one’s beliefs.”
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Do you think the media plays a role in shaping who we consider as role models?
Sample answer: “Absolutely. The media wields significant influence in shaping public perception, including who we view as role models. Through extensive coverage and storytelling, media outlets can highlight certain individuals’ achievements and personal qualities, elevating them to role model status. However, this influence isn’t always positive. The media’s tendency to sensationalize can sometimes lead to the promotion of questionable role models or the oversimplification of complex individuals. It’s crucial for consumers to approach media portrayals critically and seek out diverse sources of information to form well-rounded views of potential role models.”
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How can schools encourage students to become positive influences in their communities?
Sample answer: “Schools play a vital role in nurturing future leaders and positive influences. They can achieve this through various strategies. Firstly, implementing service-learning programs can help students understand the importance of community engagement and develop empathy. Secondly, schools can invite local community leaders and changemakers to speak to students, providing real-world examples of positive influence. Additionally, creating student-led initiatives that address local issues can empower young people to take action and see the direct impact of their efforts. Lastly, incorporating character education into the curriculum can help students develop important values like integrity, respect, and responsibility, which are fundamental to becoming a positive influence in any community.”
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test, it’s essential to use a range of sophisticated vocabulary and complex sentence structures. Here are some key terms and phrases that can elevate your responses:
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Pillar of strength /ˈpɪlər əv streŋθ/ (noun phrase): A reliable and supportive person.
Example: “My mentor has been a pillar of strength throughout my career.” -
Lead by example /liːd baɪ ɪɡˈzæmpəl/ (idiom): To influence others through one’s own actions.
Example: “Great leaders often lead by example, inspiring their teams through their own dedication and hard work.” -
Profound impact /prəˈfaʊnd ˈɪmpækt/ (noun phrase): A deep and significant effect.
Example: “Her guidance had a profound impact on my personal development.” -
Unwavering support /ʌnˈweɪvərɪŋ səˈpɔːrt/ (noun phrase): Consistent and steadfast assistance.
Example: “I’m grateful for my family’s unwavering support throughout my studies.” -
Emulate /ˈemjuleɪt/ (verb): To try to equal or excel; to imitate with effort to equal or surpass.
Example: “Many young entrepreneurs try to emulate the success of tech industry leaders.”
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when describing a person who has helped you become better, consider the following tips:
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Use specific examples: Instead of making general statements, provide concrete instances that illustrate how the person influenced you.
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Demonstrate a range of vocabulary: Incorporate sophisticated words and phrases naturally throughout your responses.
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Show reflection: Discuss not just what the person did, but how their actions impacted your thoughts and behaviors.
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Maintain fluency: Practice speaking on this topic beforehand to ensure smooth delivery during the test.
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Engage with the examiner: In Part 3, don’t just answer the questions, but engage in a genuine discussion, showing your ability to think critically about broader issues.
Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is not just about what you say, but how you say it. By following these guidelines and practicing regularly, you’ll be well-prepared to discuss influential people in your life and achieve a high score.
For more tips on improving your IELTS Speaking skills, check out our guide on how to describe a person who is very good at managing stress, which can provide additional insights into effective communication strategies.