In the IELTS Speaking Test, one of the tasks could be to “Describe a person who has influenced your life”. This type of question is common as it enables the examiner to assess various aspects of your English proficiency, including fluency, coherence, lexical resource, grammatical range, and pronunciation. This guide will help you craft a compelling response that meets all the requirements for a high band score.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
Common Questions
- Who is your hero?
- Who has been the most influential person in your life?
- Can you tell me about someone you admire?
Sample Response
Question: Who has been the most influential person in your life?
Answer: An influential person in my life is my grandmother. She raised me and instilled strong moral values in me from a young age. Her unwavering dedication to family and persistence in the face of adversity have shaped my character and inspired me to strive for excellence in all endeavors.
Analysis: This response is effective because it directly addresses the question, uses a range of vocabulary, and includes personal anecdotes that add depth to the answer.
Part 2: Long Turn
Cue Card Format
Describe a person who has influenced your life. You should say:
- Who this person is.
- How you know this person.
- What this person has done to influence you.
- And explain why this person has had such a strong influence on you.
Sample Response
An influential person in my life is my uncle, John. I have known him ever since I was a child because he is an integral part of my family. John is a remarkably resilient and empathetic individual who always goes out of his way to help others.
When I was in high school, I struggled a lot with my studies. John, who is a teacher, dedicated his time to tutoring me after school, ensuring I understood the subjects better. His unwavering support and motivational talks immensely boosted my confidence, eventually helping me excel academically.
John’s influence has been profound because he taught me the value of perseverance and empathy. His actions inspired me to pursue a career in teaching, hoping that I can have a similar impact on others’ lives. His commitment to education and helping others has become a guiding principle in my life, shaping who I am today.
Analysis: This answer covers all the bullet points effectively. It uses a mix of past and present tenses, and employs a good range of vocabulary (e.g., “resilient,” “empathy,” “unwavering support,” “perseverance”). Additionally, it incorporates personal anecdotes which make the narrative more engaging and relatable.
Follow-up Questions
- Why do you think this person is influential?
- In what ways did this person’s actions inspire you?
- Can you think of other people who might also be influential in your community?
Sample Responses:
Question: Why do you think this person is influential?
Answer: I believe John is influential because his dedication to helping others and his commitment to education are truly remarkable. His ability to inspire and motivate those around him, including myself, is a testament to his character and values.
Question: In what ways did this person’s actions inspire you?
Answer: John’s actions inspired me to be more patient and empathetic. Seeing how he positively impacted my life made me want to be a source of support and encouragement for others, especially in an educational context.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Sample Questions and Responses
Question: How do influential people shape the society we live in?
Answer: Influential people often shape society by serving as role models and setting examples for others to follow. Their ability to inspire, motivate, and effect change can lead to significant societal improvements, whether through charitable work, advancements in education, or innovations in technology.
Question: Do you think celebrities can be influential in a positive way? Why or why not?
Answer: Celebrities can indeed be influential in a positive way. For instance, many use their platforms to raise awareness about important social issues or support charitable causes, leveraging their visibility to make a substantial impact. However, it is also essential for them to be mindful of their behavior, as they set an example for many, especially younger audiences.
Analysis: These responses involve deeper thinking and the ability to discuss abstract concepts, demonstrating the candidate’s linguistic and analytical abilities.
Important Vocabulary and Phrases
To succeed in this part of the IELTS Speaking test, it’s crucial to use a variety of vocabulary and complex structures. Here are some useful words and phrases:
- Influential /ˌɪnfluˈɛnʃəl/ (adj): having the capacity to have an effect on the character, development, or behavior of someone.
- Resilient /rɪˈzɪliənt/ (adj): able to withstand or recover quickly from difficult conditions.
- Empathy /ˈɛmpəθi/ (n): the ability to understand and share the feelings of another.
- Perseverance /ˌpɜrsɪˈvɪrəns/ (n): persistence in doing something despite difficulty or delay in achieving success.
- Unwavering /ʌnˈweɪvərɪŋ/ (adj): steady or resolute; not wavering.
Example Sentences:
- “My grandmother’s influential role in my life cannot be understated.”
- “His resilient nature allowed him to overcome numerous obstacles.”
- “Her ability to show empathy made her a beloved teacher.”
- “Perseverance is essential for success in any field.”
- “His unwavering commitment to his goals inspired everyone around him.”
Tips for Practicing Speaking
- Record Yourself: Record your responses and listen to identify areas for improvement.
- Practice with Friends: Engage in speaking exercises with friends who are also preparing for the IELTS.
- Mock Tests: Take mock speaking tests to simulate the actual exam environment.
- Expand Vocabulary: Regularly learn new words and practice using them in sentences.
- Seek Feedback: Get feedback from teachers or peers to refine your speaking skills.
By focusing on these strategies and incorporating advanced vocabulary and structured responses, you can excel in the IELTS Speaking Test.
Related Links:
- Describe a Festival or Celebration in Your Country
- Describe a Friend You Have Known for a Long Time
- How to Describe People – Part 2 IELTS
Embrace these tips and examples to prepare effectively and aim for a high band score in your IELTS Speaking Test.