The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about influential people in our lives. One common topic is describing a person who has influenced your understanding of the world. This article will provide you with valuable insights and sample answers to help you achieve a high band score on this topic.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask you some general questions related to the topic. Here are some possible questions and sample answers:
Q1: Do you think it’s important to have role models?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I believe having role models is quite important. They can inspire us to set goals and work hard to achieve them. Role models can also provide guidance when we face challenges in life.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely. Role models play a pivotal role in shaping our aspirations and values. They serve as tangible examples of success and integrity, motivating us to strive for excellence in our own lives. Moreover, role models can offer invaluable insights and perspectives that broaden our horizons and challenge our preconceptions about the world.
Q2: Who has been the biggest influence in your life?
Band 6-7 Answer:
The biggest influence in my life has been my father. He has always encouraged me to work hard and pursue my dreams. His positive attitude towards life has really shaped the way I approach challenges.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Without a doubt, my grandmother has been the most profound influence in my life. Her unwavering resilience in the face of adversity and her boundless compassion for others have fundamentally altered my worldview. Her life experiences have instilled in me a deep appreciation for perseverance and empathy, qualities that I strive to embody in my daily interactions and long-term goals.
Part 2: Long Turn
In this section, you’ll be given a cue card with a topic to speak about for 1-2 minutes. Here’s a sample cue card related to our main topic:
Cue Card
Describe a person who has influenced your understanding of the world.
You should say:
- Who this person is
- How you know this person
- What this person does
- And explain how this person has influenced your understanding of the world
Sample Answer (Band 8-9)
The person who has profoundly influenced my understanding of the world is Dr. Jane Goodall, the renowned primatologist and anthropologist. Although I’ve never met her personally, I’ve been deeply inspired by her work through documentaries, books, and lectures.
Dr. Goodall is best known for her groundbreaking research on chimpanzees in Gombe, Tanzania. Her work has revolutionized our understanding of the relationship between humans and animals, challenging long-held beliefs about what it means to be human.
What truly sets Dr. Goodall apart is her tireless advocacy for environmental conservation and animal welfare. She has dedicated her life to raising awareness about the interconnectedness of all living things and the urgent need to protect our planet’s biodiversity.
Dr. Goodall’s influence on my worldview has been transformative. Her work has opened my eyes to the intricate web of life on our planet and the profound impact that human actions have on ecosystems. She has instilled in me a deep sense of responsibility towards the environment and all living creatures.
Moreover, Dr. Goodall’s unwavering commitment to her beliefs, even in the face of initial skepticism from the scientific community, has taught me the importance of perseverance and staying true to one’s convictions. Her ability to bridge the gap between scientific research and public understanding has inspired me to pursue a career in environmental education.
In essence, Dr. Jane Goodall has not only expanded my knowledge about the natural world but has also reshaped my values and aspirations. Her life’s work serves as a powerful reminder that one person can indeed make a significant difference in the world.
Follow-up Questions
- How has this person’s influence changed your daily habits?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Dr. Goodall’s influence has made me more environmentally conscious. I now try to reduce my plastic usage and make more sustainable choices in my daily life.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Dr. Goodall’s influence has permeated various aspects of my daily life. I’ve adopted a more mindful approach to consumption, prioritizing sustainable and ethically sourced products. Her emphasis on the interconnectedness of ecosystems has led me to embrace a plant-based diet, significantly reducing my carbon footprint. Additionally, I’ve become more proactive in local conservation efforts, regularly participating in community clean-ups and wildlife preservation initiatives.
- Do you think this person’s influence will continue to shape your future decisions?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I believe Dr. Goodall’s influence will continue to guide my future decisions. Her teachings about environmental protection will likely affect my career choices and lifestyle decisions.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Undoubtedly, Dr. Goodall’s influence will continue to be a guiding force in my future decision-making processes. Her philosophy of “think globally, act locally” has instilled in me a sense of responsibility that will inform my personal and professional choices. I anticipate that her teachings will shape my career trajectory, potentially steering me towards roles in environmental policy or conservation biology. Moreover, her emphasis on education and community engagement will likely influence my approach to addressing global challenges, encouraging me to seek collaborative and inclusive solutions.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In this section, the examiner will ask you more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some sample questions and answers:
Q1: How do you think role models influence society as a whole?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Role models can have a significant impact on society. They can inspire people to work harder and be better citizens. When public figures set good examples, it can lead to positive changes in society.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Role models wield considerable influence over societal norms and values. They serve as catalysts for social change, often challenging ingrained beliefs and inspiring collective action. When individuals in positions of influence embody positive attributes such as integrity, empathy, and social responsibility, it can precipitate a ripple effect throughout society. This can lead to shifts in public discourse, influence policy decisions, and even reshape cultural paradigms. However, it’s crucial to note that this influence can be double-edged – negative role models can equally perpetuate harmful stereotypes or behaviors. Therefore, the judicious selection and critical examination of role models is paramount for fostering a progressive and inclusive society.
Q2: In what ways do you think the influence of role models has changed with the rise of social media?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Social media has greatly increased the reach and impact of role models. People now have more access to the lives of public figures, which can be both good and bad. It’s easier for role models to share their messages, but there’s also more pressure on them.
Band 8-9 Answer:
The advent of social media has fundamentally altered the dynamics of influence exerted by role models. On one hand, it has democratized access to influential figures, allowing for more direct and immediate interaction between role models and their followers. This has amplified the potential for positive impact, enabling role models to disseminate messages and mobilize support for causes on an unprecedented scale.
Conversely, social media has also intensified scrutiny on role models, subjecting them to constant public evaluation. This heightened visibility can lead to the rapid rise and fall of influencers, sometimes based on fleeting trends rather than substantive contributions. Moreover, the curated nature of social media presentations can create unrealistic expectations or promote superficial values.
Another significant shift is the emergence of micro-influencers – individuals who may not have traditional celebrity status but wield considerable sway within niche communities. This has diversified the pool of role models, potentially making them more relatable and accessible to specific demographics.
In essence, while social media has exponentially increased the reach and immediacy of role models’ influence, it has also complicated the landscape of influence, necessitating a more critical and discerning approach to the consumption of role model content.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases
To achieve a high band score, it’s essential to use a range of sophisticated vocabulary and phrases. Here are some key terms that can elevate your speaking:
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Profoundly influenced /prəˈfaʊndli ˈɪnfluənst/ (adv. + v.): To have a deep and significant impact on someone or something.
Example: “Her teachings have profoundly influenced my worldview.” -
Groundbreaking research /ˈɡraʊndbreɪkɪŋ rɪˈsɜːtʃ/ (adj. + n.): Research that is innovative and pioneering.
Example: “Dr. Goodall’s groundbreaking research changed our understanding of primates.” -
Transformative /trænsˈfɔːmətɪv/ (adj.): Causing a major change in someone or something.
Example: “The experience was transformative, altering my perspective on life.” -
Instill /ɪnˈstɪl/ (v.): To gradually but firmly establish an idea or attitude in a person’s mind.
Example: “My mentor instilled in me a strong work ethic.” -
Permeate /ˈpɜːmieɪt/ (v.): To spread throughout something and be present in every part of it.
Example: “His philosophy permeates every aspect of the organization’s culture.” -
Catalyst for change /ˈkætəlɪst fɔː tʃeɪndʒ/ (n.): A person or thing that precipitates an event or change.
Example: “Her speech acted as a catalyst for change in the community.”
Tips from an IELTS Examiner
As an experienced IELTS examiner, I recommend the following strategies to excel in the Speaking test:
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Practice regularly: Engage in daily English conversations and record yourself speaking to identify areas for improvement.
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Expand your vocabulary: Learn new words and phrases related to common IELTS topics and practice using them in context.
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Develop your ideas: Don’t just give short answers. Elaborate on your points and provide specific examples to support your ideas.
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Work on your fluency: Focus on speaking smoothly and confidently, even if you make minor mistakes.
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Listen carefully: Pay close attention to the examiner’s questions and make sure you answer them directly.
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Use a variety of grammatical structures: Demonstrate your range by using different tenses, conditionals, and complex sentences.
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Stay calm: Remember that the examiner is there to assess your English, not to trick you. Stay relaxed and confident throughout the test.
By following these tips and using the sample answers provided, you’ll be well-prepared to discuss influential people in your IELTS Speaking test. Remember, practice makes perfect, so keep working on your skills and you’ll see improvement in no time.
For more IELTS Speaking practice, check out our articles on describing a public figure who has had a positive influence on society and describing a person who is known for their creativity.