The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about influential people in our lives. One popular topic is describing someone who inspires you to follow your passion. This article will guide you through answering such questions effectively, providing sample responses and valuable tips to help you achieve a high band score.
Understanding the Topic
Questions about inspirational figures are common in IELTS Speaking tests. Examiners use these to assess your ability to articulate personal experiences and express opinions. Being prepared to discuss someone who motivates you to pursue your dreams can significantly boost your confidence and performance.
IELTS Speaking Test
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about inspiration and role models. Here are some possible questions with sample answers:
Q: Do you have any role models?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I do. I really admire my high school teacher. She always encouraged us to work hard and follow our dreams.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely. I have several role models, but the one who stands out is my former high school literature teacher. She was not only incredibly knowledgeable about her subject but also exceptionally passionate about inspiring her students to pursue their interests, regardless of the field.
Q: How important is it to have someone who inspires you?
Band 6-7 Answer:
I think it’s very important. Having someone to look up to can motivate you to work harder and achieve your goals.
Band 8-9 Answer:
In my opinion, having an inspirational figure in one’s life is crucial for personal growth and development. Such individuals can serve as beacons of guidance, providing valuable insights and motivation, especially during challenging times. They often exemplify the qualities we aspire to develop in ourselves, thus setting a benchmark for our own achievements and character development.
Part 2: Long Turn
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 theme:
Describe A Person Who Inspires You To Follow Your Passion
You should say:
- Who this person is
- How you know this person
- What this person’s passion is
- And explain how this person inspires you to follow your passion
Sample Answer (Band 8-9)
The person who truly inspires me to follow my passion is Jane Chen, the co-founder and CEO of Embrace Innovations. I first learned about her through a TED Talk she gave on her journey to create low-cost infant incubators for developing countries.
Jane’s passion lies in using technology and innovation to solve global health issues, particularly those affecting newborns in resource-poor areas. Her dedication to this cause stems from a deep-rooted desire to make a tangible difference in the world.
What inspires me most about Jane is her unwavering commitment to her vision, despite facing numerous challenges. She left a successful career in management consulting to pursue her passion for social entrepreneurship, demonstrating that it’s possible to align one’s career with one’s values and aspirations.
Jane’s approach to problem-solving is truly remarkable. She didn’t just create a cheaper version of existing incubators; she reimagined the entire concept to suit the specific needs of her target users. This innovative thinking inspires me to approach challenges in my own field with a fresh perspective.
Moreover, Jane’s story reinforces the idea that one person’s determination can have a profound impact on many lives. Her work has saved thousands of premature babies, which is a powerful testament to the potential of following one’s passion with purpose and perseverance.
Ultimately, Jane Chen inspires me to pursue my own passion in environmental conservation with the same level of dedication and innovative thinking. Her example motivates me to think big, to seek creative solutions to complex problems, and to remain committed to my goals even when faced with obstacles.
Follow-up Questions
- What qualities do you think make someone inspirational?
- How can people find inspiration in their daily lives?
Band 6-7 Answer (Question 1):
I think inspirational people are usually very hardworking and passionate about what they do. They often overcome obstacles and don’t give up easily.
Band 8-9 Answer (Question 1):
In my view, truly inspirational individuals possess a unique combination of qualities. Firstly, they often demonstrate unwavering passion and dedication to their cause or field. Secondly, they tend to exhibit remarkable resilience in the face of adversity, viewing challenges as opportunities for growth rather than insurmountable obstacles. Additionally, inspirational figures frequently display innovative thinking, approaching problems from fresh angles and devising creative solutions. Lastly, I believe that the most inspirational people have a genuine desire to positively impact others, using their skills and achievements to uplift those around them.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In this section, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some possible questions with sample answers:
Q: How do you think social media influences people’s aspirations and passions?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Social media can have a big impact on people’s aspirations. It exposes us to many different ideas and success stories, which can be inspiring. However, it can also make people feel pressure to achieve unrealistic goals.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Social media undoubtedly plays a significant role in shaping people’s aspirations and passions in today’s digital age. On one hand, it serves as a powerful platform for exposure to diverse ideas, cultures, and success stories that might otherwise remain inaccessible. This exposure can broaden horizons and inspire individuals to pursue new passions or set more ambitious goals.
However, the influence of social media is not without its drawbacks. The curated nature of content on these platforms often presents an idealized version of reality, which can lead to unrealistic expectations and unnecessary pressure. This phenomenon can potentially distort one’s perception of success and fulfillment, sometimes leading to disillusionment or anxiety.
Moreover, the algorithm-driven content delivery on social media platforms tends to create echo chambers, potentially limiting exposure to diverse perspectives and reinforcing existing interests rather than encouraging the exploration of new passions.
Ultimately, while social media can be a valuable tool for inspiration and connection, it’s crucial for individuals to approach it with a critical mindset, understanding its limitations and potential biases. Balancing online influences with real-world experiences and personal introspection is key to developing genuine, sustainable passions and aspirations.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases
To elevate your speaking performance, incorporate these advanced vocabulary items and phrases:
-
Unwavering commitment /ʌnˈweɪvərɪŋ kəˈmɪtmənt/ (noun phrase): Steady and unchanging dedication.
Example: Her unwavering commitment to the cause inspired others to join the movement. -
Reimagine /ˌriːɪˈmædʒɪn/ (verb): To think about or plan something in a new way.
Example: We need to reimagine our approach to education in the digital age. -
Profound impact /prəˈfaʊnd ˈɪmpækt/ (noun phrase): A very significant or deep effect.
Example: The professor’s mentorship had a profound impact on my career choices. -
Testament /ˈtestəmənt/ (noun): Something that proves or serves as evidence of something.
Example: The company’s success is a testament to the founder’s innovative vision. -
Broaden horizons /ˈbrɔːdn həˈraɪznz/ (phrase): To expand one’s range of interests, experiences, and knowledge.
Example: Traveling abroad can really broaden your horizons and change your perspective on life.
Examiner’s Advice
To excel in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when discussing inspirational figures:
- Practice regularly: Familiarize yourself with describing people and their qualities.
- Use specific examples: Support your points with concrete instances from the person’s life or work.
- Vary your vocabulary: Incorporate advanced words and phrases to demonstrate language proficiency.
- Maintain fluency: Aim for smooth delivery, even if you need to pause briefly to gather your thoughts.
- Show genuine enthusiasm: Your tone and body language should reflect your admiration for the person you’re describing.
Remember, the key to a high score is not just about what you say, but how you say it. Confidence, fluency, and the ability to express complex ideas clearly are all crucial factors in achieving a top band score.
For more tips on improving your IELTS Speaking skills, check out our articles on describing a person who motivates you to be creative and describing a person who inspires you to learn new things.
