The topic “describe a person who inspires you” is a common and important subject in IELTS Speaking tests. It has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to continue being a popular choice for examiners. This topic allows candidates to demonstrate their ability to speak about personal experiences, emotions, and influences, which are crucial aspects of the Speaking test.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask you some general questions about inspiration and role models. Here are a few potential questions and sample answers:
Q: Do you have any role models in your life?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“Yes, I certainly do. I believe having role models is crucial for personal growth and development. In my case, my high school English teacher has been a significant source of inspiration. Her passion for the language and dedication to her students’ success have greatly influenced my own love for English and my career aspirations.”
describe a person who inspires you to pursue your dreams
Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)
Here’s a sample cue card related to the topic:
Describe a person who inspires you
You should say:
- Who this person is
- How you know this person
- What qualities this person has
- And explain why this person inspires you
Sample answer (Band 6-7):
“I’d like to talk about my grandfather, who has been a constant source of inspiration throughout my life. I’ve known him since I was born, and we’ve always had a close relationship.
My grandfather is a retired teacher who spent over 40 years educating young minds. He’s known for his patience, kindness, and wisdom. Even in his retirement, he continues to volunteer at local schools and community centers.
What I find most inspiring about him is his unwavering commitment to lifelong learning. Despite being in his 70s, he’s always eager to learn new things, whether it’s technology or a new language. His positive attitude towards life and his ability to adapt to change are truly remarkable.
He inspires me because he demonstrates that age is just a number when it comes to personal growth and contributing to society. His dedication to education and community service has motivated me to pursue a career in teaching and to always strive for self-improvement.”
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to describe my mentor, Dr. Sarah Chen, a renowned environmental scientist who has been a profound source of inspiration in my life. I first encountered her work during my undergraduate studies and later had the privilege of working alongside her on a research project.
Dr. Chen is distinguished by her groundbreaking research in sustainable urban development and her tireless advocacy for environmental conservation. Her intellectual prowess is matched only by her unwavering commitment to translating scientific findings into actionable policies.
What truly sets Dr. Chen apart is her exceptional ability to bridge the gap between complex scientific concepts and public understanding. Her eloquence and passion when speaking about environmental issues have galvanized countless individuals and organizations to take concrete steps towards sustainability.
Dr. Chen’s work epitomizes the transformative power of scientific research when combined with effective communication and advocacy. Her dedication to addressing global challenges has profoundly influenced my own career trajectory, inspiring me to pursue research that has tangible, positive impacts on society and the environment.”
Follow-up questions:
- Has this person influenced your career choices?
- What specific qualities of this person do you try to emulate in your own life?
Sample answer for question 1 (Band 8-9):
“Absolutely. Dr. Chen’s work has been instrumental in shaping my career aspirations. Her interdisciplinary approach to environmental issues has inspired me to pursue a holistic understanding of sustainability, combining elements of environmental science, urban planning, and public policy in my studies. Moreover, her success in translating research into real-world impact has motivated me to focus on applied research that addresses pressing environmental challenges.”
Sample answer for question 2 (Band 8-9):
“I strive to emulate several of Dr. Chen’s qualities in my own life and work. Firstly, her unwavering commitment to scientific integrity and ethical research practices serves as a constant reminder of the importance of maintaining high standards in academic pursuits. Secondly, I admire her ability to communicate complex ideas effectively to diverse audiences, a skill I’m continually working to improve. Lastly, her resilience in the face of setbacks and her capacity to turn challenges into opportunities for innovation are qualities I aspire to develop in my own career.”
describe a person who inspires you to care about nature
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In this section, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic of inspiration and role models.
Q: Do you think people need role models to succeed in life?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“While I believe that role models can be tremendously beneficial, I don’t think they’re absolutely essential for success. Role models can provide inspiration, guidance, and a blueprint for achievement, which can be incredibly helpful, especially for young people or those embarking on a new career path. They can demonstrate what’s possible and offer valuable insights into overcoming challenges.
However, some individuals are highly self-motivated and can achieve great things without specific role models. These people might draw inspiration from various sources or rely on their own inner drive and determination. Additionally, not having a role model can sometimes lead to more innovative thinking, as one isn’t constrained by following in someone else’s footsteps.
Ultimately, while role models can be a powerful catalyst for success, what’s most important is an individual’s personal commitment, hard work, and ability to learn and adapt. These qualities can lead to success with or without the influence of role models.”
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“The role of mentors and role models in an individual’s journey towards success is a nuanced topic that warrants careful consideration. While role models can undoubtedly serve as catalysts for personal and professional growth, their necessity for success is not absolute and can vary significantly depending on individual circumstances and personality traits.
Role models often provide tangible examples of success within a specific field or life path, offering valuable insights into the challenges one might face and strategies to overcome them. They can inspire ambition, foster resilience, and provide a psychological blueprint for achievement. This guidance can be particularly crucial in fields where the path to success is not well-defined or in situations where individuals lack access to resources or support systems.
However, it’s important to recognize that success is a highly individualized concept, and the paths to achieving it are equally diverse. Some individuals possess an intrinsic drive and capacity for self-direction that allows them to carve out unique paths to success without relying heavily on role models. In fact, an overreliance on emulating others can sometimes stifle creativity and limit one’s potential for groundbreaking achievements.
Moreover, in our increasingly interconnected world, inspiration and learning opportunities can be derived from a multitude of sources beyond traditional role models. The democratization of information through technology means that individuals can access a wealth of knowledge and experiences, allowing them to synthesize diverse influences into their own unique approach to success.
In conclusion, while role models can provide valuable guidance and inspiration, they should be viewed as potential accelerators of success rather than prerequisites. The most crucial factors in achieving success remain an individual’s personal drive, adaptability, willingness to learn, and ability to persevere in the face of challenges. Role models can complement these qualities, but they cannot substitute for them.”
describe a person who inspires you to pursue knowledge
Key Vocabulary and Phrases
To achieve a high score in your IELTS Speaking test when discussing a person who inspires you, consider using these advanced vocabulary items and phrases:
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Epitomize /ɪˈpɪtəmaɪz/ (verb): to be a perfect example of something
Example: “Her dedication to social justice epitomizes the values I strive to uphold.” -
Catalyst /ˈkætəlɪst/ (noun): a person or thing that precipitates an event or change
Example: “Meeting her was the catalyst for my decision to pursue a career in environmental science.” -
Unwavering /ʌnˈweɪvərɪŋ/ (adjective): steady or resolute; persistent
Example: “His unwavering commitment to ethical practices sets a high standard for the entire industry.” -
Galvanize /ˈɡælvənaɪz/ (verb): shock or excite (someone) into taking action
Example: “Her powerful speeches galvanized the community into taking action against climate change.” -
Paradigm shift /ˈpærədaɪm ʃɪft/ (noun): a fundamental change in approach or underlying assumptions
Example: “Her research led to a paradigm shift in how we understand human cognition.”
describe a person who inspires you to be a better leader
Examiner’s Advice
To excel in the IELTS Speaking test when describing a person who inspires you:
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Prepare diverse examples: Have at least 2-3 different inspiring figures in mind to adapt to various potential questions.
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Focus on specific qualities: Instead of general praise, highlight particular traits or actions that inspire you.
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Use personal anecdotes: Incorporate brief stories that illustrate the person’s impact on your life.
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Demonstrate reflection: Show how this person has influenced your thinking or behavior.
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Practice fluency: Aim for smooth delivery with minimal hesitation, especially in Part 2’s long turn.
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Expand your vocabulary: Incorporate advanced vocabulary and idiomatic expressions naturally in your responses.
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Develop your ideas: In Part 3, provide detailed, thoughtful answers that showcase your ability to discuss abstract concepts.
Remember, the key to a high score is not just about who you describe, but how articulately and thoughtfully you express your ideas about them.