The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about influential people in your life. One common topic is describing a person who has influenced your values or beliefs. This article will provide you with strategies and sample answers to help you excel in this task.
Understanding the Task
Before we dive into the specifics, it’s important to understand what the examiner is looking for when they ask you to describe a person who has influenced your values or beliefs. They want to assess your ability to:
- Speak fluently and coherently about a personal experience
- Use a range of vocabulary related to personal qualities and influence
- Express and justify opinions
- Discuss abstract concepts like values and beliefs
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, the examiner may ask you some general questions about influential people. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:
Sample Question 1: Who do you think has had the biggest influence on your life?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“I’d say my grandmother has had the biggest influence on my life. She’s always been there for me and taught me a lot about kindness and hard work.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“Without a doubt, my grandmother has been the most influential person in my life. Her unwavering support and wisdom have shaped my character in countless ways. She’s instilled in me the values of compassion, perseverance, and the importance of lifelong learning.”
Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)
Here’s a sample cue card related to the topic:
Describe a person who has influenced your values or beliefs
You should say:
- Who this person is
- How you know this person
- What values or beliefs they influenced
- And explain why this person had such an influence on you
Sample Answer (Band 8-9)
“I’d like to talk about my high school history teacher, Mr. Johnson, who has had a profound impact on my values and beliefs. I first met him when I was 15, and he taught me for three years.
Mr. Johnson influenced my beliefs about social justice and equality. Through his passionate teaching of historical events and their consequences, he opened my eyes to the importance of standing up for what’s right, even in the face of adversity.
One of the most significant values he instilled in me was the importance of critical thinking. He always encouraged us to question information, look at events from multiple perspectives, and form our own opinions based on evidence. This approach has shaped my worldview and how I approach problems in both my personal and professional life.
Mr. Johnson had such a strong influence on me because of his authentic and engaging teaching style. He didn’t just lecture; he facilitated discussions that made history come alive. His personal anecdotes and the way he connected historical events to current issues made the lessons relevant and impactful.
Moreover, Mr. Johnson led by example. He was actively involved in local community projects and always encouraged us to participate in volunteer work. This hands-on approach to making a difference really resonated with me and has inspired me to be more socially conscious and active in my community.
In conclusion, Mr. Johnson’s influence went far beyond just teaching history. He shaped my values of social responsibility, critical thinking, and active citizenship, which continue to guide my decisions and actions to this day.”
Follow-up Questions
- How has this person’s influence affected your daily life?
- Do you think teachers generally have a significant influence on their students’ values?
Band 8-9 Answer to Question 1:
“Mr. Johnson’s influence has had a profound impact on my daily life. I find myself constantly applying the critical thinking skills he taught me, whether I’m analyzing news articles, making important decisions, or engaging in debates with friends. His emphasis on social responsibility has also led me to actively seek out volunteer opportunities in my community. For instance, I now dedicate several hours each month to a local literacy program, something I might not have considered without his influence.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Sample Question: Do you think people’s values and beliefs are primarily shaped by individuals or by society as a whole?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“I think both individuals and society play a role in shaping people’s values and beliefs. While we learn a lot from our parents and teachers, society’s norms and expectations also influence us.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“I believe it’s a complex interplay between individual influences and broader societal factors that shape our values and beliefs. On a personal level, key figures in our lives such as parents, teachers, and mentors can have a profound impact on our worldview. They often serve as role models, demonstrating values through their actions and imparting wisdom through direct teachings.
However, we can’t underestimate the pervasive influence of society. Our values are often a reflection of the cultural norms, traditions, and collective experiences of the society we grow up in. Media, education systems, and social institutions all play a part in molding our belief systems.
That said, I think the most enduring values often come from a combination of these influences. When societal values align with what we’ve learned from influential individuals in our lives, these beliefs become deeply ingrained. Conversely, when there’s a discrepancy, it can lead to critical thinking and the development of more nuanced perspectives.
Ultimately, while society provides the backdrop for our value formation, it’s often the personal connections and individual experiences that give these values real meaning and staying power in our lives.”
Key Vocabulary and Phrases
Here are some advanced vocabulary items and phrases that can help you achieve a higher band score:
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Profound impact (phrase) – /prəˈfaʊnd ˈɪmpækt/ – A very significant or deep effect
Example: “Her mentor had a profound impact on her career choices.” -
To shape one’s worldview (phrase) – /ʃeɪp wənz ˈwɜːldvjuː/ – To influence how someone sees and understands the world
Example: “Traveling to different countries shaped my worldview significantly.” -
To instill values (phrase) – /ɪnˈstɪl ˈvæljuːz/ – To gradually but firmly establish certain ideas or attitudes in a person’s mind
Example: “My parents instilled in me the value of honesty from a young age.” -
Unwavering support (phrase) – /ʌnˈweɪvərɪŋ səˈpɔːt/ – Consistent and steady backing or encouragement
Example: “Her unwavering support helped me through the toughest times.” -
To lead by example (idiom) – /liːd baɪ ɪɡˈzɑːmpl/ – To inspire others by modeling good behavior
Example: “The best leaders lead by example, showing their team how to act and work effectively.”
Tips from an IELTS Examiner
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Practice personal anecdotes: Prepare stories about influential people in your life beforehand. This will help you speak more fluently during the test.
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Use a variety of language: Incorporate idiomatic expressions and advanced vocabulary to demonstrate your language proficiency.
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Develop your ideas: Don’t just state facts. Explain why and how someone influenced you, giving specific examples.
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Stay on topic: Make sure your answer directly addresses the question asked. Use the cue card as a guide to stay focused.
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Show reflection: Demonstrate that you’ve thought deeply about the influence this person has had on you. This shows maturity and critical thinking skills.
Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is practice. The more you prepare and familiarize yourself with potential topics, the more confident and articulate you’ll be on test day.
For more tips on acing your IELTS Speaking test, check out our guide on describing a person who has a positive influence on your life.