The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about influential people in our lives. One common topic is describing someone who inspires us to pursue knowledge. This article will guide you through answering such questions effectively, helping you achieve a high score in your IELTS Speaking exam.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about education and learning. Here’s a sample question with a suggested answer:
Examiner: Do you enjoy learning new things?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I do. I find learning new things quite interesting. It helps me understand the world better and keeps my mind active. I particularly enjoy learning about history and science through books and documentaries.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely! I’m passionate about acquiring new knowledge. There’s something inherently exhilarating about expanding my understanding of the world. I’m particularly drawn to interdisciplinary learning, as I believe it provides a more holistic perspective on complex issues. Recently, I’ve been delving into the intersection of technology and psychology, which has been both challenging and rewarding.
Part 2: Long Turn
Here’s a sample cue card related to the topic:
Describe a person who inspires you to pursue knowledge
You should say:
- Who this person is
- How you know this person
- What kind of knowledge they inspire you to pursue
- And explain why this person inspires youBand 6-7 Answer:
The person who inspires me to pursue knowledge is my high school physics teacher, Mr. Johnson. I met him when I was 16 years old, and he taught me for two years. Mr. Johnson inspires me to learn more about science, especially physics and astronomy.
He inspires me because he has a great way of explaining complex concepts in simple terms. He always encouraged us to ask questions and think critically. His passion for science was contagious, and he often shared interesting facts about recent scientific discoveries.
Thanks to Mr. Johnson, I developed a strong interest in understanding how the universe works. He showed me that learning can be fun and exciting, not just a chore for exams. Even now, years after leaving his class, I still remember his enthusiasm and it motivates me to keep learning about science.
Band 8-9 Answer:
The individual who profoundly inspires my pursuit of knowledge is Dr. Maria Chen, a renowned astrophysicist whom I had the privilege of meeting during a science symposium two years ago. Dr. Chen’s work primarily focuses on the study of black holes and the origins of the universe, which has ignited my curiosity in the field of cosmology and theoretical physics.
What sets Dr. Chen apart is her unquenchable thirst for understanding the fundamental laws that govern our universe. She inspires me to delve deeper into not just astrophysics, but also related fields such as quantum mechanics and mathematics. Her interdisciplinary approach to solving complex cosmic puzzles has shown me the importance of broad-based learning.
Dr. Chen’s inspiration stems from her ability to convey complex ideas with remarkable clarity and enthusiasm. She has a unique gift for making abstract concepts tangible and relatable. Moreover, her journey as a woman in a male-dominated field serves as a powerful reminder that passion and perseverance can overcome societal barriers.
What truly sets her apart is her emphasis on the philosophical implications of scientific discoveries. She often encourages us to ponder questions like “What does the existence of black holes tell us about the nature of reality?” This approach has inspired me to view knowledge not just as a collection of facts, but as a tool for understanding our place in the cosmos.
In essence, Dr. Chen has instilled in me a deep appreciation for the interconnectedness of knowledge and the importance of maintaining a sense of wonder about the world around us. Her influence has been truly transformative, motivating me to approach learning with enthusiasm and an open mind.
Examiner: How has this person influenced your study habits?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Mr. Johnson has greatly influenced my study habits. Because of him, I now try to understand concepts deeply instead of just memorizing facts. I also make an effort to read science news regularly and watch educational videos online. His teaching style showed me that it’s important to ask questions and discuss ideas with others to learn better.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Dr. Chen has profoundly transformed my approach to studying. Her influence has led me to adopt a more holistic and interdisciplinary method of learning. I now actively seek connections between different fields of study, recognizing that breakthroughs often occur at the intersection of disciplines.
Moreover, inspired by her rigorous approach, I’ve developed a habit of critically analyzing information rather than accepting it at face value. I frequently engage in thought experiments and try to apply theoretical concepts to real-world scenarios, a practice Dr. Chen often emphasizes.
Additionally, her emphasis on the bigger picture has encouraged me to maintain a broader perspective in my studies. I now regularly reflect on how new knowledge fits into the larger framework of human understanding, which has made my learning process more meaningful and engaging.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Examiner: How do you think technology has changed the way people acquire knowledge?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Technology has greatly changed how people learn. Now, we have access to a lot of information online through smartphones and computers. People can take online courses and watch educational videos anytime. This makes learning more convenient and accessible to many people. However, it also means we need to be careful about the sources we use because not all information online is reliable.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Technology has revolutionized the landscape of knowledge acquisition in multifaceted ways. Primarily, it has democratized access to information, breaking down geographical and socioeconomic barriers. The advent of Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) and educational platforms like Coursera and edX has made high-quality education available to anyone with an internet connection.
Moreover, technology has transformed the learning experience itself. Adaptive learning systems, powered by artificial intelligence, can now tailor educational content to individual needs, creating a more personalized and efficient learning journey. Virtual and augmented reality technologies are also pushing the boundaries of experiential learning, allowing students to interact with complex concepts in immersive 3D environments.
However, this technological revolution in learning is not without its challenges. The abundance of information available online necessitates the development of strong critical thinking and digital literacy skills. Learners must now navigate a sea of data, discerning credible sources from misinformation. Additionally, the ease of access to information might potentially lead to superficial learning, where depth of understanding is sacrificed for breadth of knowledge.
In essence, while technology has undoubtedly expanded our capacity to acquire knowledge, it has also underscored the importance of developing metacognitive skills – learning how to learn effectively in this new digital landscape.
Describe a person who has influenced your personal growth can be a similar topic that may come up in your IELTS Speaking test. The strategies discussed in this article can be applied to that topic as well.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
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Profound impact /prəˈfaʊnd ɪmpækt/ (adj. + n.): Having a deep and significant effect
Example: Her mentor’s guidance had a profound impact on her career choices. -
Ignite curiosity /ɪɡˈnaɪt ˌkjʊriˈɒsəti/ (v. + n.): To stimulate a strong desire to learn or know more
Example: The professor’s passionate lectures ignited curiosity in even the most disinterested students. -
Unquenchable thirst for knowledge /ʌnˈkwentʃəbəl θɜːst fɔː ˈnɒlɪdʒ/ (adj. + n. + prep. + n.): An insatiable desire to learn more
Example: Despite his advanced age, the scientist maintained an unquenchable thirst for knowledge. -
Interdisciplinary approach /ˌɪntəˈdɪsəplənəri əˈprəʊtʃ/ (adj. + n.): Involving two or more academic disciplines
Example: The research project adopted an interdisciplinary approach, combining insights from biology and computer science. -
Instill a sense of wonder /ɪnˈstɪl ə sens əv ˈwʌndə/ (v. + n. + prep. + n.): To gradually establish a feeling of amazement or admiration
Example: Great teachers instill a sense of wonder about the natural world in their students.
Describe a person who inspires you to work hard is another topic where these vocabulary items can be effectively used.
Examiner’s Advice
To excel in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when describing inspirational figures:
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Elaborate on your answers: Provide specific examples and personal anecdotes to support your points.
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Use a range of vocabulary: Incorporate advanced vocabulary and idiomatic expressions naturally in your responses.
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Maintain fluency: Practice speaking on various topics to improve your ability to speak at length without hesitation.
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Show critical thinking: Don’t just describe, but analyze and reflect on the impact of the person you’re discussing.
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Be authentic: While it’s important to use advanced language, ensure your responses reflect your genuine thoughts and experiences.
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Speaking is not just about using complex language, but about communicating your ideas clearly and effectively. Regular practice and exposure to English through various media can significantly enhance your performance.
Describe a friend who influenced your way of thinking is another potential topic where you can apply these strategies and showcase your language skills.
By following these guidelines and incorporating the sample answers and vocabulary provided, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle questions about inspirational figures in your IELTS Speaking test. Remember, the goal is not just to describe, but to engage in a meaningful discussion about the impact of knowledge and learning on your life.
Describe a person who inspires you to be more creative can also benefit from the strategies discussed in this article. The key is to adapt the language and examples to fit the specific topic while maintaining the same level of detail and fluency.
In conclusion, mastering the art of describing inspirational figures in your IELTS Speaking test is a valuable skill that can significantly boost your score. By incorporating advanced vocabulary, providing detailed examples, and demonstrating critical thinking, you’ll be able to impress the examiner and effectively convey your ideas. Remember, practice is key to improving your speaking skills, so make sure to regularly engage in English conversations and mock tests.
Describe a person who inspires you to follow your passion is another relevant topic where you can apply these techniques and showcase your language proficiency. Keep practicing, and you’ll be well-prepared for any question that comes your way in the IELTS Speaking test.