The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about people who have influenced or inspired us. One common topic is describing a person who motivates you to pursue your ambitions. This theme has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to remain relevant in future tests. Let’s explore how to effectively answer questions on this subject and maximize your IELTS Speaking score.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about inspiration and role models. Here’s an example question with a suggested answer:
Q: Do you have any role models in your life?
A: Yes, I do. I find inspiration in various people, both famous and personal acquaintances. One person who particularly motivates me is my high school math teacher. Her passion for the subject and dedication to her students’ success really pushed me to excel in my studies and aim higher in life.
Part 2: Long Turn
Cue Card
Describe A Person Who Inspires You To Achieve Your Goals.
You should say:
- Who this person is
- How you know this person
- What achievements this person has
- And explain how this person inspires you
Sample Answer (Band 6-7)
The person who inspires me to achieve my goals is my uncle, John. He’s my father’s younger brother, and I’ve known him since I was a child. Uncle John is a successful entrepreneur who started his own tech company from scratch about ten years ago.
What I find most inspiring about him is how he overcame numerous challenges to build his business. He started with very little money but worked tirelessly to turn his ideas into reality. Now, his company employs over 100 people and has clients all over the world.
Uncle John inspires me because he shows that with determination and hard work, it’s possible to achieve your dreams. He always encourages me to set high goals for myself and not to be afraid of failure. Whenever I face difficulties in my studies or personal projects, I think about his journey and it motivates me to keep going.
His success story reminds me that persistence is key to achieving any goal. I admire how he balances his professional life with family commitments, always making time for his loved ones despite his busy schedule. This has taught me the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
Overall, Uncle John’s example pushes me to strive for excellence in everything I do, whether it’s in my studies, future career, or personal development. His journey continues to be a source of motivation, reminding me that with the right mindset and effort, I can overcome obstacles and reach my full potential.
Sample Answer (Band 8-9)
The individual who profoundly inspires me to pursue my aspirations is Dr. Sarah Chen, a renowned neuroscientist and my former university professor. I had the privilege of attending her lectures during my undergraduate studies and subsequently worked as her research assistant for two years.
Dr. Chen’s achievements are truly remarkable and multifaceted. She has made groundbreaking discoveries in the field of neuroplasticity, publishing numerous papers in prestigious scientific journals. Her research has revolutionized our understanding of brain recovery after trauma, leading to innovative treatments for patients with neurological disorders. Moreover, she has successfully bridged the gap between academia and industry, founding a biotech startup that develops cutting-edge neural interfaces.
What I find particularly inspiring about Dr. Chen is her unwavering commitment to scientific integrity coupled with her compassionate approach to both research and teaching. She consistently demonstrates that curiosity and perseverance are the cornerstones of scientific progress. Her ability to articulate complex concepts with clarity and enthusiasm has not only enhanced my understanding of neuroscience but also ignited my passion for research.
Dr. Chen’s journey inspires me on multiple levels. Firstly, her meteoric rise in a male-dominated field serves as a powerful reminder that gender barriers can be overcome through excellence and determination. Secondly, her balanced approach to life – excelling in her career while maintaining strong family ties and engaging in community service – exemplifies the possibility of achieving both professional success and personal fulfillment.
Furthermore, Dr. Chen’s mentorship style has been instrumental in shaping my career goals. She consistently encourages her students to think critically and challenge existing paradigms, fostering an environment where innovative ideas flourish. Her guidance has instilled in me the confidence to pursue ambitious research projects and to view setbacks as opportunities for growth.
In essence, Dr. Chen’s example motivates me to strive for excellence in my academic pursuits, to maintain ethical standards in research, and to use scientific knowledge for the betterment of society. Her journey serves as a constant reminder that with passion, perseverance, and a commitment to lifelong learning, one can make significant contributions to their field and positively impact the lives of others.
Follow-up Questions
Q: How important do you think it is for young people to have role models?
A (Band 6-7): I think it’s quite important for young people to have role models. They can learn good values and behaviors from these people. Role models can show young people what’s possible if they work hard and stay focused on their goals.
A (Band 8-9): I believe that having role models is crucial for young people’s personal and professional development. Role models serve as living examples of success and integrity, providing tangible proof that one’s aspirations are achievable. They can inspire resilience in the face of adversity and demonstrate the importance of ethical behavior in various life situations. Moreover, role models often offer valuable insights and guidance, helping young individuals navigate complex life choices and career paths. However, it’s equally important for young people to develop critical thinking skills to discern which aspects of their role models’ lives and behaviors are worth emulating, as no individual is without flaws.
Q: Do you think people can be inspired by those they’ve never met?
A (Band 6-7): Yes, I think people can definitely be inspired by those they’ve never met. Many people look up to famous scientists, artists, or leaders they only know through books or media. These figures can motivate us with their achievements and ideas, even if we don’t know them personally.
A (Band 8-9): Absolutely, I believe that inspiration can transcend personal acquaintance. Historical figures, contemporary leaders, artists, and innovators often serve as powerful sources of motivation and guidance, despite the lack of direct interaction. Their life stories, accomplishments, and philosophies can profoundly impact our worldviews and aspirations. This form of inspiration often stems from a deep resonance with the individual’s values, struggles, or achievements. Moreover, in the digital age, social media and online platforms have amplified our exposure to inspiring individuals globally, allowing us to gain insights into their thoughts and experiences. However, it’s crucial to maintain a balanced perspective, recognizing that public personas may not always reflect the full complexity of an individual’s character or journey.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Q: How do you think role models influence society?
A (Band 6-7): I think role models have a big impact on society. They can inspire people to be better and work harder. When public figures set good examples, it can encourage others to do the same. This can lead to positive changes in society, like more people volunteering or pursuing education.
A (Band 8-9): Role models wield significant influence on societal values and behaviors. They often serve as catalysts for social change by challenging existing norms and inspiring collective action. When public figures champion important causes, it can elevate awareness and drive policy changes. Moreover, role models in various fields set benchmarks for excellence, pushing others to strive for higher standards in their respective domains. However, this influence is a double-edged sword; negative behavior by role models can also perpetuate harmful stereotypes or encourage detrimental practices. Therefore, the impact of role models underscores the importance of responsible leadership and ethical conduct in public life.
Q: Do you think the concept of role models has changed with social media?
A (Band 6-7): Yes, I think social media has changed how we see role models. Now, we can follow our favorite celebrities or influencers online and see more of their daily lives. This makes them seem more real and accessible. But it also means that people can become role models very quickly, sometimes just for being famous online.
A (Band 8-9): Social media has fundamentally transformed the landscape of role models in several ways. Firstly, it has democratized influence, allowing individuals to gain followings based on niche expertise or relatable content, rather than traditional markers of success. This has diversified the pool of role models, giving visibility to voices that might have been marginalized in traditional media. However, it has also led to the rise of ‘micro-celebrities’ whose influence may be disproportionate to their achievements or expertise.
Moreover, social media has blurred the lines between public and private personas, offering unprecedented access to the daily lives of role models. While this can foster a sense of connection and authenticity, it also subjects role models to intense scrutiny and can lead to rapid falls from grace. The instantaneous nature of social media also means that the lifecycle of role models can be much shorter, with viral sensations rising and falling quickly.
Lastly, the algorithm-driven nature of social media platforms can create echo chambers, potentially limiting exposure to diverse role models and reinforcing existing biases. This underscores the need for digital literacy and critical thinking in identifying and engaging with role models in the social media age.
Q: In what ways can having a role model be disadvantageous?
A (Band 6-7): Having a role model can sometimes be disadvantageous if you try to copy them too much. You might not develop your own style or ideas. Also, if your role model makes a mistake or does something bad, it can be really disappointing and might affect you negatively.
A (Band 8-9): While role models can be incredibly inspiring, there are potential drawbacks to consider. Firstly, excessive idolization can lead to unrealistic expectations and a sense of inadequacy when one fails to measure up to their role model’s achievements. This can be particularly damaging to self-esteem and personal growth.
Secondly, over-reliance on a role model may stifle individual creativity and critical thinking. There’s a risk of blindly emulating behaviors or decisions without considering one’s unique circumstances or values. This can hinder the development of a person’s authentic self and decision-making skills.
Another concern is the potential for disillusionment. Role models, being human, are fallible and may disappoint their admirers through personal failings or scandals. When this occurs, it can lead to cynicism or a loss of direction, especially if one’s aspirations were closely tied to the role model’s perceived character.
Furthermore, narrowly focusing on one role model may limit exposure to diverse perspectives and experiences. This can result in a myopic worldview and missed opportunities for growth and learning from a variety of sources.
Lastly, there’s the risk of perpetuating harmful stereotypes or behaviors if the role model embodies or promotes problematic attitudes. This is particularly concerning when role models have a large platform and influence over impressionable audiences.
To mitigate these risks, it’s crucial to maintain a balanced perspective, draw inspiration from multiple sources, and critically evaluate the behaviors and values one chooses to emulate.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
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To overcome challenges /tuː ˌəʊvəˈkʌm ˈtʃælɪndʒɪz/ (phrasal verb): to successfully deal with or resolve difficulties
Example: She overcame numerous challenges to become a successful entrepreneur. -
Groundbreaking /ˈɡraʊndˌbreɪkɪŋ/ (adjective): innovative; pioneering
Example: His groundbreaking research revolutionized the field of quantum physics. -
To bridge the gap /tuː brɪdʒ ðə ɡæp/ (idiom): to connect two different things or groups
Example: The project aims to bridge the gap between academic research and practical applications. -
Unwavering commitment /ʌnˈweɪvərɪŋ kəˈmɪtmənt/ (noun phrase): strong and steady dedication
Example: Her unwavering commitment to social justice inspired many young activists. -
To strive for excellence /tuː straɪv fɔːr ˈeksələns/ (phrase): to make great efforts to achieve high standards
Example: The company strives for excellence in all aspects of customer service. -
To challenge existing paradigms /tuː ˈtʃælɪndʒ ɪɡˈzɪstɪŋ ˈpærədaɪmz/ (phrase): to question and test established ways of thinking
Example: The new theory challenged existing paradigms in evolutionary biology. -
To wield influence /tuː wiːld ˈɪnfluəns/ (phrase): to exert power or strong effect
Example: As a respected leader, she wields significant influence in the organization. -
Catalyst for change /ˈkætəlɪst fɔː tʃeɪndʒ/ (noun phrase): a person or thing that precipitates an event or change
Example: His passionate speech acted as a catalyst for change in the community.
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test when describing a person who inspires you:
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Prepare diverse examples: Have several inspiring figures in mind from different fields (personal, professional, historical) to adapt to various questions.
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Use specific details: Provide concrete examples of the person’s achievements and how they’ve influenced you.
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Employ advanced vocabulary: Incorporate sophisticated words and phrases relevant to inspiration and personal development.
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Demonstrate critical thinking: Show balanced views by discussing both positive aspects and potential drawbacks of having role models.
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Practice fluency: Work on speaking smoothly without long pauses, using appropriate linking words to connect your ideas.
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Develop your answers: Aim to speak for 2-3 minutes in Part 2, providing depth and breadth in your response.
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Show personal engagement: Express genuine enthusiasm when discussing how the person inspires you, using varied intonation and emphasis.
Remember, authenticity is key. Choose someone who genuinely inspires you, as this will naturally enhance the quality and sincerity of your response.
Describe a person who is always optimistic can be another interesting topic to explore in your IELTS Speaking preparation. It allows you to discuss qualities like resilience and positive thinking, which are valuable traits in many inspiring individuals.
By incorporating these strategies and focusing on clear, coherent communication, you’ll be well-prepared to excel in describing a person who inspires you to achieve your goals in the IELTS Speaking test. Remember, regular practice and exposure to English are crucial for improving your overall performance.