The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about people who have influenced us, particularly in areas like environmental awareness. This topic is not only relevant to current global concerns but also allows candidates to showcase their language skills while discussing personal experiences. Let’s explore how to effectively answer questions about a person who inspires you to care about nature, a topic that has appeared in past IELTS exams and is likely to remain relevant in future tests.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about nature and environmental awareness. Here are some possible questions and a sample answer:
Examiner: “Do you enjoy spending time in nature?”
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“Absolutely! I find being in nature incredibly rejuvenating. Whenever I have the chance, I make a point of going for hikes in the nearby mountains or spending time in local parks. There’s something about the fresh air and natural surroundings that really helps me unwind and recharge my batteries.”
Part 2: Long Turn
Here’s a sample cue card related to the topic:
Describe a person who inspires you to care about nature.
You should say:
- Who this person is
- How you know them
- What they do to care for nature
- Explain why this person inspires you
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to talk about my high school biology teacher, Dr. Sarah Thompson, who has been a profound influence on my attitude towards nature conservation. I first met her when I was 15, and her passion for environmental issues was immediately apparent.
Dr. Thompson goes above and beyond her role as an educator. She spearheads numerous eco-friendly initiatives in our community, such as organizing regular beach clean-ups and lobbying local authorities to implement more sustainable practices. What’s truly remarkable is her ability to translate complex environmental issues into actionable steps that even teenagers can understand and implement.
Her dedication to protecting our planet is truly awe-inspiring. She doesn’t just teach about environmental problems; she actively works towards solutions. For instance, she initiated a school-wide composting program that significantly reduced our waste output. Her approach to environmental education is hands-on and immersive, often taking us on field trips to witness firsthand the impact of human activities on local ecosystems.
What inspires me most about Dr. Thompson is her unwavering belief that every individual can make a difference. She empowers her students to become environmental stewards, showing us that small actions, when multiplied by millions, can lead to significant change. Her optimism in the face of daunting environmental challenges is contagious, and it’s motivated me to pursue environmental studies in college.
In essence, Dr. Thompson has not only educated me about nature but has also instilled in me a deep sense of responsibility towards our planet. Her influence extends far beyond the classroom, shaping the way I view my role in protecting the environment.”
Possible follow-up questions:
- How has this person changed your daily habits regarding environmental protection?
- What do you think motivates people like Dr. Thompson to dedicate their lives to environmental causes?
Sample answer for question 1 (Band 7-8):
“Dr. Thompson’s influence has significantly altered my daily routines. I’ve become much more conscious of my carbon footprint, opting to cycle or use public transport instead of driving whenever possible. I’ve also adopted a more sustainable approach to consumption, prioritizing reusable products and actively reducing my plastic waste. Her teachings have instilled in me a habit of considering the environmental impact of my choices, from the food I eat to the clothes I buy.”
Sample answer for question 2 (Band 8-9):
“I believe people like Dr. Thompson are driven by a profound sense of responsibility towards our planet and future generations. They possess a deep understanding of the interconnectedness of ecosystems and recognize that human well-being is inextricably linked to the health of our environment. Moreover, I think they’re motivated by the belief that education and individual action can create a ripple effect, inspiring others to join the cause. Their passion often stems from a combination of scientific knowledge and a genuine love for nature, compelling them to dedicate their lives to its preservation.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Examiner: “Do you think individuals can make a significant impact on environmental issues, or is it primarily the responsibility of governments and large corporations?”
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“While it’s undeniable that governments and corporations wield substantial influence over environmental policies and practices, I firmly believe that individual actions play a crucial role in addressing environmental issues. Every person’s choices, from daily consumption habits to voting decisions, collectively contribute to shaping our environmental impact.
Individuals can drive change through various means. Firstly, our consumer choices send powerful signals to businesses about the demand for eco-friendly products and services. When enough people prioritize sustainability, it can shift market trends and encourage companies to adopt greener practices. Secondly, individuals can amplify their impact through community initiatives, such as local conservation projects or awareness campaigns, which can inspire broader societal change.
Moreover, individuals often serve as the catalyst for larger movements. Many significant environmental policies and corporate changes have been spurred by grassroots activism and public pressure. The cumulative effect of millions of people making environmentally conscious decisions can be substantial.
However, I acknowledge that the scale and urgency of environmental challenges necessitate action at all levels. While individual efforts are vital, they need to be complemented by robust governmental policies and corporate responsibility. Governments have the power to implement far-reaching regulations and incentives that can accelerate sustainable practices across entire industries. Similarly, large corporations have the resources and reach to make substantial impacts through their operations and supply chains.
In conclusion, I believe the most effective approach to tackling environmental issues is a synergy between individual actions, governmental policies, and corporate initiatives. Each plays a distinct yet interconnected role in fostering a more sustainable future.”
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
-
Profound influence /prəˈfaʊnd ˈɪnfluəns/ (adjective + noun): Having a deep and significant impact.
Example: “Her teachings had a profound influence on my environmental awareness.” -
Spearhead /ˈspɪəhed/ (verb): To lead or organize an activity or campaign.
Example: “She spearheads numerous eco-friendly initiatives in our community.” -
Translate complex issues (phrase): To explain difficult concepts in a way that’s easy to understand.
Example: “He has a talent for translating complex environmental issues into simple terms.” -
Environmental steward /ɪnˌvaɪrənˈmentl ˈstjuːəd/ (noun): A person who takes care of the environment.
Example: “The program aims to turn students into responsible environmental stewards.” -
Carbon footprint /ˈkɑːbən ˈfʊtprɪnt/ (noun): The amount of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere as a result of one’s activities.
Example: “I’ve become much more conscious of my carbon footprint since learning about climate change.” -
Interconnectedness /ˌɪntəkəˈnektɪdnəs/ (noun): The state of being connected with each other.
Example: “Understanding the interconnectedness of ecosystems is crucial for environmental protection.” -
Catalyst for change (phrase): Something that causes or accelerates change.
Example: “Her actions served as a catalyst for change in our community’s approach to recycling.”
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test when discussing environmental topics:
- Use a range of advanced vocabulary related to nature and environmental issues.
- Provide specific examples to support your points, demonstrating both personal experience and broader knowledge.
- Show your ability to discuss the topic from various perspectives, considering individual, community, and global impacts.
- Use a variety of grammatical structures, including complex sentences, to express your ideas clearly and coherently.
- Practice speaking about environmental issues regularly, incorporating new vocabulary and phrases into your responses.
- Stay informed about current environmental challenges and solutions to provide relevant and up-to-date content in your answers.
Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is not just about what you say, but how you say it. Aim for fluency, coherence, and a natural conversational style while incorporating sophisticated language and well-developed ideas.
Describe a favorite season in your country can be another interesting topic to explore, as it allows you to connect seasonal changes with environmental awareness and appreciation for nature.