Describing a person who inspires you to pursue your dreams is a common topic in IELTS Speaking tests. This theme allows candidates to showcase their language skills while discussing personal experiences and motivations. As an IELTS examiner, I’ve noticed this topic appearing frequently in recent years, and it’s likely to remain popular in future tests.
Describe a public figure who inspires you is a related topic that often comes up in IELTS Speaking Part 2. Let’s explore how to effectively answer questions about inspiring individuals across all parts of the Speaking test.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, you may encounter questions related to inspiration and role models. Here’s an example question with a suggested answer:
Q: Do you have any role models in your life?
A: Yes, I do. My grandfather has always been a significant role model for me. His perseverance and positive outlook on life, despite facing numerous challenges, have inspired me to stay determined in pursuing my own goals.
Part 2: Long Turn
For Part 2, you’ll be given a cue card with a topic to speak about for 1-2 minutes. Here’s a sample cue card on the theme of an inspiring person:
Describe a person who inspires you to pursue your dreams. You should say:
- Who this person is
- How you know this person
- What this person does
- And explain why this person inspires you to pursue your dreams
Sample Answer (Band 6-7):
The person who inspires me to pursue my dreams is my high school art teacher, Mrs. Johnson. I first met her when I was 15 years old and struggling to find my passion. Mrs. Johnson is a dedicated art teacher who also runs her own successful art gallery in the city.
What truly inspires me about Mrs. Johnson is her unwavering commitment to both teaching and her personal artistic career. She always encouraged her students to express themselves through art and never give up on their dreams. I remember her telling us, “Art is not just about talent; it’s about persistence and hard work.”
Mrs. Johnson’s ability to balance her teaching career with her own artistic pursuits showed me that it’s possible to have a stable job while still following your passion. Her success in opening her own gallery proved that with dedication and effort, dreams can become reality.
The way she provided constructive feedback and pushed us to improve our skills has had a lasting impact on me. Even now, years after graduating, I still hear her voice in my head, urging me to keep practicing and refining my art.
Mrs. Johnson’s influence has inspired me to pursue a career in graphic design, combining my love for art with practical applications. Her example has taught me that with the right mindset and hard work, I can turn my passion into a successful career.
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
The individual who has been a profound source of inspiration in my pursuit of dreams is Dr. Maya Angelou, the renowned poet, memoirist, and civil rights activist. Although I never had the privilege of meeting her personally, her works and life story have had an indelible impact on my aspirations and worldview.
Dr. Angelou’s multifaceted career as a writer, actress, director, and professor is a testament to her incredible versatility and intellectual prowess. What truly sets her apart and inspires me is her indomitable spirit in the face of adversity. Despite experiencing trauma and discrimination in her early years, she rose above her circumstances to become a voice for the marginalized and a beacon of hope for millions.
Her autobiography, “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings,” resonated deeply with me, illustrating the power of resilience and the transformative nature of education. Dr. Angelou’s journey from a young girl in the segregated South to an internationally acclaimed author and speaker serves as a powerful reminder that one’s background does not determine one’s future.
What I find particularly inspiring about Dr. Angelou is her unwavering commitment to lifelong learning and personal growth. She continually reinvented herself throughout her life, taking on new challenges and roles well into her later years. This has encouraged me to view life as a continuous journey of self-improvement and to embrace new opportunities without fear.
Dr. Angelou’s famous quote, “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel,” has become a guiding principle in my own pursuits. It has inspired me to not only strive for personal success but to also make a positive impact on others along the way.
Her legacy continues to inspire me to dream big, to persevere in the face of obstacles, and to use my voice and talents to contribute meaningfully to society. Dr. Angelou’s life and work serve as a constant reminder that with courage, determination, and compassion, it is possible to overcome any challenge and leave a lasting, positive imprint on the world.
Follow-up Questions:
Q: How has this person’s influence affected your career choices?
A: (Band 6-7) Mrs. Johnson’s influence has definitely shaped my career path. Her passion for art and teaching inspired me to pursue a degree in graphic design, where I can combine creativity with practical skills. I now work in a design agency, and I often think back to her lessons when I’m working on projects.
A: (Band 8-9) Dr. Angelou’s influence has been transformative in my career aspirations. Her emphasis on the power of words and storytelling has inspired me to pursue a career in journalism, with a focus on social justice issues. I strive to emulate her ability to give voice to the voiceless and shed light on important societal challenges through my writing.
Q: Do you think it’s important for young people to have role models?
A: (Band 6-7) Yes, I think it’s very important. Role models can show young people what’s possible and give them something to aim for. They can also provide guidance and inspiration when things get tough.
A: (Band 8-9) Absolutely. Role models play a crucial role in shaping young people’s aspirations and values. They serve as living examples of what can be achieved through hard work, perseverance, and integrity. Moreover, role models can provide invaluable guidance and inspiration, helping young individuals navigate the complexities of personal and professional development. However, it’s equally important for young people to think critically and not blindly idolize their role models, recognizing that everyone has flaws and makes mistakes.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In Part 3, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some sample questions and answers:
Q: How do you think social media influencers impact young people’s aspirations?
A: (Band 6-7) I think social media influencers have a big impact on young people today. They can inspire their followers to try new things or pursue certain careers. However, there’s also a risk of creating unrealistic expectations or promoting superficial values.
A: (Band 8-9) The impact of social media influencers on young people’s aspirations is a double-edged sword. On one hand, influencers can serve as accessible role models, showcasing diverse career paths and lifestyles that may inspire young people to pursue their passions. They can also raise awareness about important issues and encourage social responsibility.
However, there are significant downsides to consider. The curated nature of social media can create unrealistic expectations and foster a culture of comparison, potentially leading to decreased self-esteem and anxiety among young people. Moreover, the emphasis on materialism and instant gratification often promoted by influencers may skew young people’s values and aspirations towards superficial goals.
It’s crucial for young people to develop critical thinking skills to navigate the influencer landscape, distinguishing between authentic inspiration and manufactured content. Parents and educators play a vital role in guiding young people to seek out diverse sources of inspiration and to set realistic, meaningful goals for themselves.
Q: Do you believe that the concept of a ‘dream job’ has changed for the younger generation?
A: (Band 6-7) Yes, I think it has changed quite a bit. In the past, a dream job might have been something stable with a good salary. Now, many young people are more interested in jobs that offer flexibility, creativity, and a sense of purpose.
A: (Band 8-9) The concept of a ‘dream job’ has indeed evolved significantly for the younger generation, reflecting broader societal and technological changes. Traditionally, dream jobs were often associated with prestige, high salaries, and job security. While these factors still hold importance, there’s a noticeable shift in priorities among younger individuals.
Today’s younger generation tends to place a higher value on work-life balance, personal fulfillment, and the opportunity to make a positive impact on society. This shift can be attributed to several factors, including increased awareness of global issues, the rise of the gig economy, and the rapid pace of technological advancement.
Many young people now seek careers that offer flexibility, continuous learning opportunities, and alignment with their personal values. The idea of a ‘portfolio career’ or pursuing multiple passions simultaneously has gained traction. Additionally, there’s a growing emphasis on entrepreneurship and creating one’s own career path rather than following a predetermined trajectory.
However, it’s important to note that this shift isn’t universal. Economic realities and cultural factors still influence career aspirations, and for many, job security and financial stability remain paramount. The challenge for the younger generation lies in balancing their idealistic aspirations with practical considerations in an increasingly competitive and uncertain job market.
Describe a person who inspires you to achieve your goals is another common topic that requires similar language skills and reflective thinking. Practicing responses to these types of questions can help you prepare for various scenarios in the IELTS Speaking test.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
To achieve a high score in IELTS Speaking when discussing inspiring individuals, consider using the following vocabulary and phrases:
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Indomitable spirit /ɪnˈdɒmɪtəbl ˈspɪrɪt/ (adj. + noun): An unbeatable or unconquerable spirit.
Example: “Her indomitable spirit in the face of adversity was truly inspiring.” -
To resonate with /ˈrezəneɪt wɪð/ (phrasal verb): To evoke a feeling of shared emotion or belief.
Example: “His story of overcoming obstacles resonated deeply with me.” -
Unwavering commitment /ʌnˈweɪvərɪŋ kəˈmɪtmənt/ (adj. + noun): A dedication that doesn’t falter or diminish.
Example: “Her unwavering commitment to social justice has inspired many to take action.” -
To emulate /ˈemjuleɪt/ (verb): To try to equal or excel; to imitate with effort to equal or surpass.
Example: “I strive to emulate her positive attitude and work ethic in my own life.” -
Transformative /trænsˈfɔːmətɪv/ (adj.): Causing a marked change in someone or something.
Example: “Meeting her had a transformative effect on my career aspirations.” -
To give voice to (idiom): To express or articulate something on behalf of someone or a group.
Example: “Through her writing, she gives voice to the marginalized communities in our society.” -
Beacon of hope /ˈbiːkən əv həʊp/ (noun phrase): A source of inspiration or encouragement.
Example: “In times of uncertainty, her leadership served as a beacon of hope for many.”
Describe a person who encourages you to pursue your dreams is another topic where these vocabulary items can be effectively used to demonstrate your language proficiency.
Examiner’s Advice
To excel in the IELTS Speaking test when describing a person who inspires you to pursue your dreams:
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Practice describing various inspiring figures, both personal acquaintances and public figures, to be prepared for different scenarios.
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Focus on providing specific examples and anecdotes that illustrate why the person inspires you, rather than just listing their qualities.
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Use a range of descriptive language and advanced vocabulary to articulate your thoughts clearly and precisely.
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Develop your ideas fully, explaining not just who the person is and what they do, but how their influence has impacted your life and aspirations.
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Be prepared to discuss the broader implications of role models and inspiration in Part 3, considering both positive and negative aspects.
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Practice speaking about this topic for 2 minutes without stopping to build your fluency and confidence.
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Record yourself and listen back to identify areas for improvement in pronunciation, grammar, and vocabulary usage.
By following these tips and incorporating the suggested vocabulary, you’ll be well-prepared to discuss inspiring individuals in your IELTS Speaking test. Remember, the key is to speak naturally and enthusiastically about your chosen subject while demonstrating your English language skills.
Describe a famous entrepreneur you admire is another topic that can help you practice describing inspiring individuals in a professional context. Expanding your repertoire of topics will enhance your ability to respond effectively in the IELTS Speaking test.
In conclusion, being able to eloquently describe a person who inspires you to pursue your dreams is a valuable skill for the IELTS Speaking test. It allows you to demonstrate your language abilities while sharing personal insights and reflections. By preparing thoughtful responses and expanding your vocabulary, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle this topic and describe a person who motivates you to be a better version of yourself in the IELTS Speaking test. Remember to practice regularly and seek feedback to continually improve your speaking skills.