How to Answer “Describe a Person Who Inspires You to Keep Learning” in IELTS Speaking

As an IELTS Speaking examiner, I’ve noticed that questions about inspirational figures are quite common in the test. The topic “Describe A Person Who Inspires You To Keep Learning” is particularly interesting as it allows candidates to showcase their ability to discuss personal experiences, express admiration, and elaborate on the concept of continuous learning. Let’s explore how to approach this topic effectively to achieve a high band score in your IELTS Speaking test.

Person inspiring continuous learning

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In Part 1, the examiner may ask you some general questions about learning and inspiration. Here are a few possible questions:

1. Do you enjoy learning new things?
2. How do you prefer to learn?
3. Who was your favorite teacher at school?
4. Is there someone in your life who encourages you to learn?

Let’s look at a sample answer for the last question:

Examiner: Is there someone in your life who encourages you to learn?

Sample Answer (Band 7-8):
“Absolutely! My uncle, who’s a professor at a local university, has been a constant source of inspiration for me. He’s always encouraging me to expand my horizons and acquire new skills. What I find most inspiring about him is his insatiable curiosity about the world around him. He’s in his sixties now, but he’s still learning new languages and taking up new hobbies. His enthusiasm for learning is truly contagious.”

Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)

Now, let’s move on to Part 2, where you’ll be given a cue card related to the topic. Here’s a possible cue card:

Describe a person who inspires you to keep learning

You should say:

• Who this person is
• How you know this person
• What this person does
• And explain why this person inspires you to keep learning

Sample Answer (Band 7-8):

“I’d like to talk about my high school Physics teacher, Mr. Thompson, who has been a significant source of inspiration for me in terms of continuous learning.

I first met Mr. Thompson when I was 15 years old, in my sophomore year of high school. He was not only my Physics teacher but also the coach of our school’s science club.

What sets Mr. Thompson apart is his unique approach to teaching. Instead of merely lecturing, he always encouraged hands-on learning and critical thinking. He would often bring in real-world examples to illustrate complex concepts, making Physics both accessible and fascinating.

But what truly inspires me about Mr. Thompson is his lifelong commitment to learning. Despite having taught for over 30 years, he’s always updating his knowledge and exploring new developments in the field. He attends conferences, participates in research projects, and even took a sabbatical to work on a cutting-edge experiment at CERN.

Mr. Thompson’s enthusiasm for learning is infectious. He taught me that education doesn’t end with formal schooling, but is a lifelong journey. His curiosity and passion for his subject have shown me the joy of continuous self-improvement.

What I find most inspiring is how he applies his knowledge to make a difference. He’s involved in various community projects, using his expertise to solve local environmental issues. This has taught me that learning isn’t just about personal growth, but also about contributing to society.

In conclusion, Mr. Thompson’s dedication to learning, his ability to make complex subjects engaging, and his commitment to using knowledge for the greater good have profoundly inspired me to keep learning throughout my life.”

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):

“I’d like to discuss my grandmother, Clara, who has been an extraordinary source of inspiration for me in terms of lifelong learning.

I’ve known my grandmother all my life, of course, but it wasn’t until I reached my teens that I truly began to appreciate her remarkable journey and insatiable thirst for knowledge.

Clara, now in her mid-eighties, has led a life characterized by constant reinvention and intellectual curiosity. She began her career as a nurse in the 1950s, but her passion for learning led her to pursue multiple degrees over the years, including psychology in her 40s and art history in her 60s. Even now, she’s engrossed in learning computer programming, proving that it’s never too late to acquire new skills.

What inspires me most about my grandmother is her unwavering belief in the power of education to broaden horizons and foster personal growth. She often says, “Every day is an opportunity to learn something new,” and she truly lives by this philosophy.

Her approach to learning is multi-faceted and dynamic. She voraciously reads on a wide range of subjects, from quantum physics to medieval history. She’s also embraced technology, using online platforms to take courses from universities worldwide. Moreover, she actively seeks out diverse perspectives, engaging in discussions with people from all walks of life.

Clara’s continuous pursuit of knowledge has had a profound impact on her life and those around her. It’s kept her mind sharp, expanded her worldview, and allowed her to connect with people across generations. She’s shown me that learning is not just about academic achievement, but about staying engaged with the world and constantly evolving as a person.

What I find most inspiring is how she applies her knowledge in practical ways. She volunteers at local schools, sharing her diverse expertise, and uses her programming skills to help local non-profits improve their websites. This has taught me that learning is most valuable when it’s used to benefit others.

In essence, my grandmother’s lifelong dedication to learning, her ability to adapt to new challenges, and her commitment to using knowledge for the betterment of society have profoundly inspired me to view learning as a lifelong adventure, one that enriches not just the individual, but the entire community.”

Follow-up Questions:

1. How has this person’s influence affected your learning habits?
2. What specific skills or knowledge have you acquired because of this person’s inspiration?

Sample Answer (Band 7-8):

“Mr. Thompson’s influence has significantly impacted my learning habits. I’ve become more proactive in seeking knowledge outside the classroom, often exploring scientific journals and online courses. Because of his inspiration, I’ve developed a keen interest in astrophysics and have even started learning programming to analyze astronomical data.”

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):

“My grandmother’s influence has revolutionized my approach to learning. I’ve adopted her multidisciplinary approach, exploring subjects beyond my immediate field of study. Inspired by her, I’ve taken up learning a new language and have started a blog where I share insights from various fields, synthesizing knowledge in creative ways. Her example has taught me to see learning not as a means to an end, but as an enriching lifelong journey.”

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

In Part 3, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some possible questions and sample answers:

Examiner: How do you think the role of inspirational figures in education has changed over time?

Sample Answer (Band 7-8):
“I believe the role of inspirational figures in education has evolved significantly over time. In the past, these figures were often limited to teachers, parents, or famous historical personalities. However, with the advent of the internet and social media, we now have access to a much wider range of inspirational figures.

Today, people can find inspiration from YouTube educators, TED talk speakers, or even Instagram influencers who specialize in certain fields. This has democratized inspiration, making it possible for anyone with knowledge and charisma to become an inspirational figure in education.

However, this change also means that people need to be more discerning about their sources of inspiration. With so many voices out there, it’s important to critically evaluate the credibility and expertise of these new inspirational figures.”

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“The role of inspirational figures in education has undergone a profound transformation over time, reflecting broader societal and technological changes.

Historically, inspirational figures in education were often distant and idealized – great thinkers, scientists, or leaders whose lives and achievements we studied. While these figures still play a crucial role, there’s been a shift towards more accessible and relatable inspirational figures.

This change has been largely driven by the democratization of information and the rise of social media. Now, we have access to a vast array of potential role models – from YouTube educators and podcast hosts to social media influencers specializing in niche subjects. This has made inspiration more immediate and personalized.

However, this shift comes with both opportunities and challenges. On one hand, it has made learning more engaging and relevant, especially for younger generations. It has also given a platform to diverse voices that might have been overlooked in traditional educational settings.

On the other hand, the abundance of information and inspirational figures requires us to be more discerning and critical in our consumption of educational content. We need to develop skills to evaluate the credibility of these new inspirational figures and to synthesize information from multiple sources.

Moreover, the role of traditional inspirational figures – teachers, mentors, parents – has evolved. They now play a crucial role in guiding learners through this complex information landscape, helping them to find reliable sources of inspiration and to develop critical thinking skills.

In essence, while the pool of inspirational figures has greatly expanded, their fundamental role remains the same: to spark curiosity, encourage critical thinking, and inspire a love for lifelong learning. The challenge now is to harness the potential of this new landscape while maintaining the depth and rigor that characterize meaningful education.”

Examiner: Do you think everyone needs an inspirational figure to motivate them to learn?

Sample Answer (Band 7-8):
“While having an inspirational figure can be incredibly motivating, I don’t think it’s absolutely necessary for everyone. Some people are naturally self-motivated and find their drive to learn from within. However, I believe most people can benefit from having someone who inspires them, especially when facing challenges or losing motivation.

Inspirational figures can provide guidance, share experiences, and offer a different perspective that we might not have considered. They can also serve as role models, showing us what’s possible if we continue to learn and grow.

That said, it’s important to remember that inspiration can come from various sources – not just individuals. Books, experiences, or even setbacks can inspire us to keep learning. The key is to find what works best for each individual and to cultivate a personal passion for learning.”

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“The question of whether everyone needs an inspirational figure to motivate their learning is complex and multifaceted. While I believe that inspirational figures can play a significant role in motivating learning, I don’t think they’re universally necessary for everyone.

Firstly, it’s important to recognize that motivation for learning can stem from various sources. For some, it’s an intrinsic drive for knowledge and self-improvement. Others might be motivated by practical goals, such as career advancement or solving specific problems. In these cases, an external inspirational figure might not be essential.

However, inspirational figures can provide unique benefits that are hard to replicate through other means. They can offer lived experiences and practical wisdom that textbooks can’t provide. They can demonstrate the real-world application of knowledge, making abstract concepts more tangible and relevant. Moreover, they can embody the outcomes of continued learning, serving as tangible proof of the benefits of lifelong education.

Inspirational figures can also play a crucial role in overcoming barriers to learning. When faced with challenges or self-doubt, having someone who has navigated similar obstacles can provide encouragement and strategies for perseverance. They can expand our perception of what’s possible, encouraging us to set more ambitious goals for our learning journey.

That said, it’s crucial to note that inspiration doesn’t always have to come from individuals. It can be derived from books, experiences, or even adversity. The key is to cultivate a learning mindset that’s open to inspiration from various sources.

Moreover, over-reliance on inspirational figures can sometimes be counterproductive. It’s important for learners to develop self-motivation and intrinsic interest in the subject matter. The most effective inspirational figures often encourage independence and critical thinking, rather than mere imitation.

In conclusion, while inspirational figures can be powerful catalysts for learning, they’re not universally necessary. The most important factor is fostering a genuine love for learning and developing the skills to self-motivate and persevere through challenges. Inspirational figures can certainly aid in this process, but they’re one tool among many in the pursuit of lifelong learning.”

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

To achieve a high band score, it’s crucial to use a range of vocabulary and complex structures. Here are some key terms and phrases that can elevate your responses:

1. Insatiable curiosity /ɪnˈseɪʃəbl kjʊəriˈɒsəti/ (noun phrase): An extreme desire to learn or know something that can never be satisfied.
   Example: “Her insatiable curiosity led her to explore a wide range of subjects throughout her life.”

2. Lifelong commitment /ˈlaɪflɒŋ kəˈmɪtmənt/ (noun phrase): A dedication to something that lasts for one’s entire life.
   Example: “His lifelong commitment to education inspired many of his students to become teachers themselves.”

3. To broaden horizons /tuː ˈbrɔːdn həˈraɪznz/ (verb phrase): To expand one’s range of interests, experiences, and knowledge.
   Example: “Traveling abroad is an excellent way to broaden your horizons and gain new perspectives.”

4. Voraciously /vəˈreɪʃəsli/ (adverb): In a way that involves consuming or wanting a lot of something, especially food, knowledge, or information.
   Example: “She reads voraciously, often finishing several books in a week.”

5. To synthesize knowledge /tuː ˈsɪnθəsaɪz ˈnɒlɪdʒ/ (verb phrase): To combine different ideas, influences, or things to form a coherent whole.
   Example: “The ability to synthesize knowledge from various fields is a valuable skill in today’s interdisciplinary world.”

6. Multifaceted /ˌmʌltɪˈfæsɪtɪd/ (adjective): Having many different aspects or features.
   Example: “Her multifaceted approach to problem-solving allows her to see issues from various angles.”

7. To foster personal growth /tuː ˈfɒstə ˈpɜːsnl ɡrəʊθ/ (verb phrase): To encourage or promote the development of someone’s character or abilities.
   Example: “The mentor’s guidance helped to foster personal growth in all of his students.”

8. Profound impact /prəˈfaʊnd ˈɪmpækt/ (noun phrase): A very significant or deep effect on someone or something.
   Example: “The teacher’s innovative methods had a profound impact on how students approached learning.”

Using these terms and phrases appropriately can demonstrate your language proficiency and help you achieve a higher band score in your IELTS Speaking test.

Tips from an IELTS Speaking Examiner

As an IELTS examiner, I’d like to offer some advice to help you excel in the Speaking test:

1. Practice regularly: Consistent practice is key to improving your speaking skills. Try to speak English every day, even if it’s just talking to yourself.

2. Expand your vocabulary: Read widely and note down new words and phrases. Try to use them in your speaking practice.

3. Work on pronunciation: Clear pronunciation is crucial. Focus on stress, intonation, and individual sounds that you find challenging.

4. Develop your ideas: Don’t just give short answers. Expand on your points and provide examples to support your ideas.

5. Use a variety of structures: Mix simple and complex sentences. Use conditionals, relative clauses, and other advanced structures when appropriate.

6. Stay relaxed: Remember, the examiner wants you to do well. Stay calm and view the test as an opportunity to showcase your English skills.

7. Listen carefully: Make sure you understand the questions. If you’re unsure, it’s okay to ask for clarification.

8. Be authentic: While it’s good to prepare, don’t memorize answers. Speak naturally and let your personality shine through.

By following these tips and practicing regularly, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle the IELTS Speaking test and describe a person who inspires you to keep learning. Remember, the key is to demonstrate your English language skills while expressing your thoughts clearly an