The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about influential people in our lives. One common topic is describing someone who has had a significant impact on your lifestyle. This article will provide you with strategies, sample answers, and key vocabulary to help you excel in this task.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, the examiner may ask general questions about people who have influenced you. Here are some possible questions and sample answers:
- Have you ever been influenced by someone’s lifestyle?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“Yes, I have. My older sister has had a big influence on me. She’s very health-conscious and has inspired me to eat better and exercise more regularly.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“Absolutely. I’ve been profoundly influenced by my university professor, Dr. Smith. Her dedication to sustainable living has completely transformed my approach to consumption and waste management. I now find myself constantly seeking ways to reduce my environmental footprint.”
- Do you think young people are easily influenced by others?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“I believe young people can be quite impressionable. They often look up to celebrities and social media influencers, which can affect their behavior and choices.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“In my opinion, young people are particularly susceptible to external influences due to their formative stage of development. The ubiquity of social media and the cult of celebrity in modern culture can significantly shape their values, aspirations, and lifestyle choices. However, I also think that with proper guidance, this impressionability can be channeled positively, allowing young individuals to be inspired by role models who embody admirable qualities and achievements.”
Part 2: Long Turn
Here’s a sample cue card related to the topic:
Describe a person who has influenced your lifestyle.
You should say:
- Who this person is
- How you know this person
- What aspects of your lifestyle have been influenced
- And explain why this person has had such an influence on you
Band 6-7 Answer:
“I’d like to talk about my uncle, John, who has greatly influenced my lifestyle. He’s my father’s younger brother, and I’ve known him since I was a child. We often spent summers together at our family’s beach house.
Uncle John has always been passionate about fitness and healthy living. He’s an avid runner and participates in marathons regularly. His dedication to staying fit has inspired me to take my own health more seriously.
Because of him, I’ve started jogging three times a week and paying more attention to my diet. I’ve cut down on junk food and started eating more fruits and vegetables. I also try to get enough sleep now, which I didn’t prioritize before.
Uncle John has had such a big influence on me because he leads by example. He doesn’t just talk about being healthy; he actually lives that way. Seeing how energetic and happy he is at his age has made me realize the importance of taking care of my body and mind. His influence has really improved my quality of life.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“I’d like to elaborate on the profound influence my mentor, Dr. Sarah Chen, has had on my lifestyle. Dr. Chen was my research supervisor during my postgraduate studies in environmental science, and our professional relationship has evolved into a cherished friendship over the years.
Dr. Chen’s unwavering commitment to sustainable living has been truly transformative for me. Her lifestyle choices, deeply rooted in environmental consciousness, have inspired me to make significant changes in various aspects of my daily life.
Perhaps the most notable influence has been on my consumption habits. Under her guidance, I’ve adopted a ‘reduce, reuse, recycle’ approach, drastically cutting down on single-use plastics and opting for eco-friendly alternatives wherever possible. I’ve also embraced a plant-based diet, which not only aligns with my newfound environmental values but has also yielded substantial health benefits.
Moreover, Dr. Chen’s influence extends beyond tangible lifestyle changes. Her holistic approach to sustainability, which emphasizes the interconnectedness of environmental, social, and economic factors, has reshaped my worldview. I now find myself constantly evaluating the broader implications of my actions and striving to make more informed, responsible choices.
The reason Dr. Chen has had such a profound impact on me lies in her authenticity and passionate advocacy. She doesn’t merely preach sustainability; she embodies it in every facet of her life. Her ability to effect positive change, both in her immediate surroundings and on a broader scale through her research, has been truly inspiring. Through her example, I’ve come to realize that individual actions, when collectively embraced, can lead to significant environmental progress. This realization has not only altered my lifestyle but has also given me a sense of purpose and agency in addressing global environmental challenges.”
Describe a person who is knowledgeable about health can be another interesting topic to explore in IELTS Speaking, as it relates closely to the influence people can have on our lifestyle choices.
Follow-up questions:
- How has this person’s influence changed your daily routine?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“Uncle John’s influence has made me more active. I now wake up earlier to go for a jog before work. I also spend more time preparing healthy meals instead of eating out.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“Dr. Chen’s influence has led to a comprehensive overhaul of my daily routine. I now start my day with a mindfulness practice, which helps me maintain a sense of purpose and environmental awareness throughout the day. I’ve also implemented a zero-waste approach to my morning routine, using reusable containers and homemade personal care products. My commute has transformed as well; I now prioritize cycling or public transportation over driving, which not only reduces my carbon footprint but also provides an opportunity for exercise and reflection.”
- Do you think this influence will be long-lasting?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“Yes, I think so. The healthy habits I’ve developed have become a part of my lifestyle now. I feel better when I exercise and eat well, so I want to continue.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“I’m confident that the influence Dr. Chen has had on me will have a lasting impact. The changes I’ve implemented aren’t merely superficial alterations to my routine; they represent a fundamental shift in my values and worldview. This transformation has been deeply internalized, becoming an integral part of my identity. Moreover, the positive reinforcement I receive from these lifestyle changes – improved health, a sense of purpose, and the knowledge that I’m contributing to environmental conservation – serves as a powerful motivator to maintain and even expand upon these practices in the long term.”
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:
- In what ways do you think role models can influence young people’s behavior?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“Role models can have a big impact on young people. They can inspire them to work hard, be kind to others, and follow their dreams. For example, a famous athlete might encourage kids to exercise more and eat healthily.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“Role models can exert a profound influence on young people’s behavior through various mechanisms. Firstly, they serve as living examples of the potential outcomes of certain choices and actions, providing a tangible goal for youth to aspire to. This can be particularly powerful in shaping career aspirations or personal values. Secondly, role models often embody specific qualities or skills that young people seek to emulate, such as resilience, creativity, or leadership. Through observation and imitation, youth can internalize these traits and behaviors.
Moreover, role models can challenge preconceived notions and broaden horizons, exposing young people to diverse perspectives and possibilities they might not have considered otherwise. This exposure can be instrumental in fostering open-mindedness and critical thinking. Additionally, positive role models can provide a source of motivation and encouragement, particularly during challenging times, helping young people to persevere in the face of adversity.
However, it’s crucial to note that the influence of role models isn’t always positive. Media portrayal and societal expectations can sometimes lead to the idolization of figures who may not necessarily embody constructive values. Therefore, it’s essential to encourage young people to think critically about their chosen role models and understand the context of their actions and achievements.”
- Do you think the influence of parents on their children’s lifestyle is decreasing in modern society?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“I think parents still have a big influence, but it might be decreasing a bit. These days, children are exposed to many other influences like social media and their peers. However, parents are still important in shaping their children’s values and habits.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“The dynamics of parental influence on children’s lifestyles in modern society present a complex and nuanced picture. While it might be tempting to assert that parental influence is waning in the face of increasing external factors, I believe the reality is more multifaceted.
On one hand, the proliferation of digital media and the increasing influence of peer groups have indeed introduced competing sources of influence in children’s lives. The ubiquity of smartphones and social media platforms exposes children to a wide array of lifestyles and value systems that may differ from those of their parents. Additionally, the demands of modern work life often mean that parents spend less direct time with their children, potentially reducing their day-to-day influence.
However, I would argue that parental influence remains fundamental, albeit in evolving forms. Parents still play a crucial role in mediating and contextualizing the myriad influences their children encounter. They provide the primary framework through which children interpret and navigate the world around them. Moreover, in response to the challenges posed by modern society, many parents are becoming more intentional and strategic in their parenting approaches, focusing on quality interactions and open communication to maintain their influence.
Furthermore, the increasing awareness of the importance of early childhood experiences in shaping lifelong behaviors and attitudes has led many parents to be more conscious of their role. This heightened awareness often translates into more deliberate efforts to model positive behaviors and instill desirable values.
In conclusion, while the nature of parental influence may be changing, adapting to the realities of modern society, its importance in shaping children’s lifestyles remains significant. The key lies in parents’ ability to evolve their approaches to maintain relevance and connection in their children’s lives amidst competing influences.”
Describe a person who enjoys exploring the outdoors could be an interesting topic to discuss when considering how different people can influence our lifestyle choices, especially in relation to physical activity and appreciation of nature.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
To boost your IELTS Speaking score, incorporate these advanced words and phrases into your responses:
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Profound influence (noun phrase): A deep and significant impact.
Example: “My mentor had a profound influence on my career choices.” -
To embody (verb): To represent or express something in a tangible or visible form.
Example: “She embodies the qualities of a true leader.” -
Transformative (adjective): Causing a marked change in someone or something.
Example: “His advice had a transformative effect on my approach to studying.” -
To emulate (verb): To match or surpass (a person or achievement), typically by imitation.
Example: “Many young athletes try to emulate their sports heroes.” -
Holistic approach (noun phrase): An approach that considers all aspects of something as interconnected and explicable only by reference to the whole.
Example: “She takes a holistic approach to health, considering diet, exercise, and mental well-being.” -
To internalize (verb): To make (attitudes or behavior) part of one’s nature by learning or unconscious assimilation.
Example: “Over time, I internalized his positive outlook on life.” -
Paradigm shift (noun phrase): A fundamental change in approach or underlying assumptions.
Example: “His influence caused a paradigm shift in my understanding of environmental issues.” -
To foster (verb): To encourage or promote the development of something.
Example: “Good role models can foster a sense of responsibility in young people.”
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test when describing a person who has influenced your lifestyle:
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Prepare diverse examples: Have several examples ready of people who have influenced you in different ways. This will allow you to choose the most appropriate one based on the specific question.
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Use a range of vocabulary: Incorporate advanced vocabulary and idiomatic expressions naturally in your responses. Practice using these words in context to ensure fluency.
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Provide specific details: When describing the influence, give concrete examples of how your lifestyle has changed. This demonstrates the depth of your English language skills and your ability to express complex ideas.
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Structure your answer: In Part 2, organize your response logically, addressing all points in the cue card. Use discourse markers to connect your ideas smoothly.
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Extend your answers: In Part 3, don’t just give short responses. Elaborate on your points, provide examples, and discuss different perspectives to showcase your language proficiency.
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Practice speaking: Regularly practice speaking about influential people in your life. Record yourself and listen back to identify areas for improvement in pronunciation, fluency, and coherence.
Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is to communicate effectively and confidently while demonstrating a wide range of language skills. By following these tips and practicing regularly, you can significantly improve your performance and achieve a higher band score.
Describe a famous athlete you admire is another topic that could help you practice describing influential figures in a different context, broadening your range of examples for the IELTS Speaking test.