The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about environmental issues and influential people. One topic that frequently appears is describing someone who inspires you to care for the environment. This subject allows examiners to assess your ability to discuss personal experiences, environmental awareness, and influential figures. Let’s explore how to effectively answer questions related to this topic and maximize your IELTS Speaking score.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about the environment and your daily habits. Here’s an example question with a suggested answer:
Question: “Do you take any actions to protect the environment in your daily life?”
Sample Answer (Band 7-8):
“Yes, I certainly try to. In my day-to-day life, I make a conscious effort to reduce my carbon footprint. For instance, I always carry a reusable water bottle and shopping bags to minimize plastic waste. Additionally, I’ve switched to using public transportation or cycling for short distances instead of driving. These small actions may seem insignificant, but I believe they can collectively make a substantial impact on the environment.”
Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)
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:
Describe a person who inspires you to care for the environment
You should say:
- Who this person is
- How you know this person
- What this person does to protect the environment
- And explain why this person inspires you
Sample Answer (Band 6-7):
“I’d like to talk about my high school biology teacher, Ms. Johnson, who really inspired me to care more about the environment. I met her when I was 15 years old, and she taught me for two years.
Ms. Johnson was passionate about environmental conservation and always encouraged us to think about our impact on the planet. She organized various eco-friendly activities at school, such as recycling drives and tree-planting events. She also led by example, using a bicycle to commute and always bringing her own reusable containers for lunch.
What I found most inspiring about Ms. Johnson was her unwavering commitment to making a difference, no matter how small. She often said, “Every action counts,” which really stuck with me. Her enthusiasm was contagious, and she made us feel empowered to make positive changes in our community.
Because of her influence, I became more conscious of my daily habits and their environmental impact. I started recycling regularly, reducing my plastic use, and even volunteered for local clean-up events. Ms. Johnson showed me that one person’s actions can inspire many others, creating a ripple effect of positive change for our planet.”
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to discuss Dr. Jane Goodall, the renowned primatologist and anthropologist, who has been a profound source of inspiration for me in terms of environmental conservation. Although I’ve never met her personally, her work and philosophy have significantly influenced my perspective on our relationship with nature.
Dr. Goodall is globally recognized for her groundbreaking research on chimpanzees and her tireless efforts in wildlife conservation. What sets her apart is her holistic approach to environmental protection. She doesn’t just focus on preserving habitats; she also emphasizes the importance of sustainable development and community involvement in conservation efforts.
Through her organization, the Jane Goodall Institute, she has implemented numerous programs worldwide. These include reforestation projects, initiatives to improve the lives of local communities, and educational programs that empower young people to become environmental stewards. Her ‘Roots & Shoots’ program, which encourages youth-led community action, has been particularly impactful.
What truly inspires me about Dr. Goodall is her unwavering optimism and her belief in the power of individual action. Despite witnessing firsthand the devastating effects of human activity on the environment, she maintains that “every individual matters” and “every individual has a role to play” in creating a more sustainable world.
Her philosophy has profoundly influenced my own approach to environmental stewardship. It’s motivated me to not only adopt more sustainable practices in my daily life but also to actively engage in community-based conservation efforts. Dr. Goodall’s work serves as a constant reminder that through persistence, compassion, and collective action, we can indeed make a significant positive impact on our planet.”
Follow-up questions:
- How has this person’s influence changed your daily habits?
- Do you think individuals can make a significant impact on environmental protection?
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
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“Dr. Goodall’s influence has dramatically transformed my daily habits. I’ve become far more mindful of my consumption patterns, opting for sustainable alternatives whenever possible. For instance, I’ve transitioned to a predominantly plant-based diet, recognizing its lower environmental impact. I’ve also become an advocate for ‘reduce, reuse, recycle’ in my community, organizing local initiatives to promote these practices. Moreover, inspired by her emphasis on education, I’ve started volunteering at local schools to teach children about environmental conservation.”
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“Absolutely, I firmly believe that individuals can make a substantial impact on environmental protection. Dr. Goodall’s mantra that ‘every individual matters’ resonates deeply with me. While global policies are crucial, real change often starts at the grassroots level. When individuals adopt sustainable practices, it creates a ripple effect, influencing their families, friends, and communities. Furthermore, collective individual actions can drive market demands, pushing companies towards more sustainable practices. It’s the cumulative effect of these individual choices that can lead to significant environmental change.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In this section, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some potential questions with sample answers:
Question 1: “How can schools effectively educate students about environmental issues?”
Sample Answer (Band 7-8):
“I believe schools can play a crucial role in environmental education. They could integrate environmental topics into various subjects, not just science. For example, in literature classes, students could analyze texts about nature and conservation. In math, they could work on projects calculating carbon footprints. Hands-on experiences are also vital. Schools could organize field trips to nature reserves or waste management facilities, giving students real-world exposure to environmental issues and solutions. Additionally, encouraging student-led initiatives like eco-clubs or recycling programs can foster a sense of responsibility and empowerment among young people.”
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“Schools have a pivotal role in shaping environmental awareness, and I believe a multifaceted approach is most effective. Firstly, environmental education should be integrated holistically across the curriculum, not confined to science classes. For instance, economics courses could explore sustainable business models, while geography could delve into climate change impacts.
Secondly, experiential learning is crucial. This could involve hands-on projects like maintaining school gardens, conducting energy audits of the school building, or participating in local conservation efforts. Such activities not only educate but also instill a sense of environmental stewardship.
Moreover, schools should foster critical thinking about environmental issues. Debates on environmental policies or case studies on ecological challenges can help students understand the complexities of these issues and develop problem-solving skills.
Lastly, schools should lead by example. Implementing sustainable practices within the school itself – such as using renewable energy, reducing waste, and sourcing local, organic food for cafeterias – can create a powerful learning environment where students witness sustainability in action.”
Question 2: “Do you think technological advancements can solve environmental problems?”
Sample Answer (Band 7-8):
“Technology certainly has the potential to address many environmental challenges. For instance, renewable energy technologies like solar and wind power are already helping to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels. Smart grid systems can make our energy use more efficient, while electric vehicles are decreasing transport emissions. In agriculture, precision farming techniques are helping to reduce water usage and pesticide application. However, it’s important to note that technology alone isn’t a panacea. We also need policy changes and shifts in individual behavior to truly tackle environmental issues.”
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“The role of technology in addressing environmental challenges is indeed significant, but it’s crucial to view it as part of a broader solution rather than a silver bullet. Technological advancements have undoubtedly provided us with powerful tools to combat environmental issues. For instance, artificial intelligence and big data are enhancing our ability to model climate patterns and predict environmental changes with unprecedented accuracy. Biotechnology is offering promising solutions for pollution cleanup and sustainable material production.
However, we must approach technological solutions with a critical eye. Often, the development and implementation of new technologies come with their own environmental costs. Take electric vehicles, for example. While they reduce direct emissions, we must consider the environmental impact of battery production and electricity generation.
Moreover, an over-reliance on technological fixes might lead to a ‘techno-optimism’ that neglects the need for fundamental changes in our consumption patterns and economic systems. Technology should complement, not replace, efforts to address root causes of environmental degradation.
In essence, while technological advancements are invaluable in our fight against environmental problems, they must be part of a holistic approach that includes policy reforms, education, and shifts in individual and corporate behavior. It’s this integrated strategy that holds the most promise for creating a sustainable future.”
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
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Environmental stewardship /ɪnˌvaɪrənˈmentl ˈstjuːərdʃɪp/ (noun): The responsible use and protection of the natural environment through conservation and sustainable practices.
Example: “Dr. Goodall’s work has inspired a new generation of environmental stewardship.” -
Sustainability /səˌsteɪnəˈbɪləti/ (noun): The ability to maintain or support a process continuously over time, especially in terms of avoiding depletion of natural resources.
Example: “The company’s commitment to sustainability includes using 100% renewable energy in its operations.” -
Carbon footprint /ˈkɑːbən ˈfʊtprɪnt/ (noun): The amount of carbon dioxide and other carbon compounds emitted due to the consumption of fossil fuels by a particular person, group, etc.
Example: “By choosing to cycle instead of drive, I’ve significantly reduced my carbon footprint.” -
Biodiversity /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti/ (noun): The variety of plant and animal life in the world or in a particular habitat.
Example: “Preserving biodiversity is crucial for maintaining healthy ecosystems.” -
Eco-conscious /ˈiːkəʊ ˈkɒnʃəs/ (adjective): Aware and concerned about the environment and environmental issues.
Example: “More consumers are becoming eco-conscious, choosing products with minimal environmental impact.” -
To spearhead /tə ˈspɪəhed/ (verb): To lead an attack or an important movement or activity.
Example: “The environmental group spearheaded a campaign to clean up the local river.” -
Paradigm shift /ˈpærədaɪm ʃɪft/ (noun): A fundamental change in approach or underlying assumptions.
Example: “We need a paradigm shift in how we view our relationship with nature to address the climate crisis effectively.” -
Circular economy /ˈsɜːkjələr iˈkɒnəmi/ (noun): An economic system aimed at eliminating waste and the continual use of resources.
Example: “Many businesses are now adopting circular economy principles to reduce waste and increase efficiency.”
Describe a famous building you want to visit to broaden your perspective on architectural marvels and their environmental impact.
Tips from an Examiner
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Practice regularly: Dedicate time each day to speak English, focusing on environmental topics and personal experiences.
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Expand your vocabulary: Learn and use a wide range of environmental terms and idiomatic expressions.
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Develop your ideas: Don’t just list facts; explain your thoughts and provide examples to support your points.
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Use a variety of grammatical structures: Incorporate complex sentences and different tenses to demonstrate your language proficiency.
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Work on your pronunciation: Pay attention to word stress and intonation to enhance the clarity of your speech.
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Stay informed: Keep up with current environmental issues to provide relevant and up-to-date examples in your responses.
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Record yourself: Listen to your own responses and identify areas for improvement in fluency, pronunciation, and content.
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Seek feedback: Practice with a study partner or tutor who can provide constructive criticism on your speaking skills.
Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is not just about what you say, but how you say it. Confidence, fluency, and the ability to express your ideas clearly are crucial factors in achieving a high score.
Describe a place in nature you go to for peace and relaxation to further enhance your ability to discuss environmental topics in your IELTS Speaking test.
By following these guidelines and practicing regularly, you’ll be well-prepared to discuss environmental inspirations and related topics in your IELTS Speaking test. Good luck with your preparation!