The topic of describing a person who has inspired you to achieve something is a common one in IELTS Speaking tests. It has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to continue being a popular topic in future tests. This theme allows examiners to assess candidates’ ability to express personal experiences, emotions, and opinions while demonstrating their language skills.
Describe a person who inspires you to achieve your goals is a versatile topic that can be applied to various contexts, making it ideal for IELTS Speaking. Let’s explore how to approach this topic effectively across all parts of the IELTS Speaking test.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask general questions related to inspiration and achievement. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:
- Do you have any role models?
- What qualities do you admire in others?
- How important is it to have someone who inspires you?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“Yes, I do have role models. I greatly admire people who have overcome significant challenges to achieve their goals. I believe having inspiring figures in our lives is crucial as they can motivate us to push our boundaries and strive for excellence. Personally, I’m drawn to individuals who demonstrate resilience, creativity, and a strong work ethic.”
Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)
Here’s a sample cue card related to the topic:
Describe a person who has inspired you to achieve something.
You should say:
- Who this person is
- How you know this person
- What achievements this person has made
- And explain how this person inspired you
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to talk about my high school physics teacher, Mr. Johnson, who has been a tremendous source of inspiration for me. I first met him when I was 15 years old, struggling with science subjects and lacking confidence in my abilities.
Mr. Johnson is renowned in our community for his innovative teaching methods and his ability to make complex concepts accessible to students. He has won several teaching awards and has even published a book on effective science education.
What truly sets Mr. Johnson apart is his unwavering belief in his students’ potential. He went above and beyond to help me understand difficult topics, often staying after school to provide extra guidance. His passion for physics was contagious, and he had a knack for relating scientific principles to real-world applications, which made the subject come alive for me.
Mr. Johnson’s dedication and encouragement profoundly impacted my academic journey. He instilled in me a love for science and a confidence in my abilities that I had never experienced before. Thanks to his inspiration, I not only excelled in physics but also decided to pursue a career in engineering.
His influence extends far beyond just academic achievements. Mr. Johnson taught me the value of perseverance, critical thinking, and the importance of nurturing curiosity. He demonstrated that with the right mindset and dedication, one can overcome any obstacle.
In essence, Mr. Johnson’s impact on my life has been transformative. He didn’t just teach me physics; he taught me how to approach challenges with enthusiasm and determination. His belief in me sparked a self-belief that has been instrumental in my personal and professional growth.”
Inspiring teacher explaining science concept to student
Possible follow-up questions:
- How has this person’s influence changed your life?
- Do you think you’ll inspire others in the same way?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“Mr. Johnson’s influence has been profound and far-reaching. His guidance has not only shaped my academic path but also instilled in me a passion for lifelong learning. I’ve adopted his approach of breaking down complex problems into manageable parts, which has proven invaluable in various aspects of my life.
As for inspiring others, I certainly hope to pay it forward. I’ve already started mentoring younger students in STEM subjects, trying to emulate Mr. Johnson’s patient and encouraging approach. While I may not have his years of experience, I strive to spark the same curiosity and confidence in others that he ignited in me.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In this section, the examiner might ask more abstract questions related to inspiration and achievement. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:
- Why do some people inspire others more than the rest?
- How has the concept of role models changed in recent years?
- Do you think media plays a role in shaping who we consider inspirational?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I believe certain individuals inspire others more profoundly due to a combination of factors. Firstly, they often possess exceptional qualities or have achieved something remarkable, which naturally draws admiration. However, what truly sets them apart is their ability to connect with others on a personal level. They’re often adept at communicating their experiences and insights in a way that resonates with people, making their achievements seem both impressive and attainable.
The concept of role models has undergone a significant shift in recent years, largely due to the influence of social media and the internet. Traditionally, role models were often public figures, celebrities, or local community leaders. Now, we’re seeing a more diverse and accessible range of inspirational figures. Everyday individuals can gain a platform and inspire others through their stories, skills, or unique perspectives. This democratization of influence has broadened our understanding of what it means to be a role model.
Diverse group of inspirational figures on social media
Media undoubtedly plays a crucial role in shaping our perceptions of inspirational figures. It has the power to amplify stories and bring attention to individuals who might otherwise remain unknown. However, this influence is not without its complexities. While media can highlight truly inspirational stories, it can also create a somewhat distorted view of success and achievement. The challenge for individuals is to critically evaluate the messages we receive and seek out diverse sources of inspiration that align with our personal values and aspirations.”
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
To enhance your IELTS Speaking performance, incorporate these advanced vocabulary items and phrases:
- Tremendous source of inspiration /trɪˈmendəs sɔːs əv ɪnspɪˈreɪʃən/ (phrase): A great cause of motivation or encouragement.
Example: “My grandmother has been a tremendous source of inspiration throughout my life.” - To go above and beyond /tuː ɡəʊ əˈbʌv ænd bɪˈjɒnd/ (idiom): To do more than is expected or required.
Example: “Our team leader always goes above and beyond to ensure project success.” - To instill in someone /tuː ɪnˈstɪl ɪn ˈsʌmwʌn/ (phrasal verb): To gradually but firmly establish an idea or attitude in a person’s mind.
Example: “My parents instilled in me the importance of honesty from a young age.” - Transformative /trænsˈfɔːmətɪv/ (adjective): Causing a marked change in someone or something.
Example: “The experience abroad was transformative, altering my perspective on global issues.” - To pay it forward /tuː peɪ ɪt ˈfɔːwəd/ (idiom): To respond to a person’s kindness by being kind to someone else.
Example: “Inspired by my mentor’s generosity, I decided to pay it forward by volunteering at a local school.”
Describe a sportsperson you admire can be another excellent topic to practice using these vocabulary items and phrases.
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in IELTS Speaking, particularly when describing an inspiring person:
- Develop your ideas fully: Don’t just list facts about the person; explain their impact on you and others in detail.
- Use a range of vocabulary: Incorporate advanced words and phrases naturally throughout your response.
- Maintain fluency: Practice speaking on this topic to improve your ability to express ideas smoothly and coherently.
- Show flexibility: Be prepared to discuss the topic from various angles, as seen in the Part 3 questions.
- Use examples: Support your points with specific instances or scenarios to make your answer more vivid and convincing.
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Speaking is not just about what you say, but how you say it. Regular practice and expanding your vocabulary will help you describe a person who likes to travel by plane or any other topic with confidence and eloquence.