How to Ace the IELTS Speaking Task: Describing a Person Known for Their Achievements

The IELTS Speaking test often includes topics about influential people and their accomplishments. One common theme is “Describe a person who is known for their achievements.” This article will provide you with valuable tips, sample answers, and essential vocabulary to help you excel in this task and boost your IELTS Speaking score.

Understanding the Task

Before we dive into the specifics, it’s crucial to understand what the examiners are looking for when they ask you to describe a person known for their achievements. They want to assess your ability to:

1. Speak fluently and coherently about a specific individual
2. Use a range of vocabulary related to achievements and personal qualities
3. Organize your thoughts and present them in a structured manner
4. Provide relevant details and examples

Now, let’s break down the task into different parts of the IELTS Speaking test.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In this section, the examiner may ask you some general questions related to achievements and successful people. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:

Sample Question 1: Do you think it’s important to celebrate people’s achievements?

Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I think it’s quite important to celebrate achievements. It can motivate people to work harder and inspire others to set goals for themselves. When we recognize someone’s success, it shows that we value their efforts and contributions.

Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely, I believe celebrating achievements is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it serves as a powerful motivator, encouraging individuals to strive for excellence in their endeavors. Moreover, public recognition of success can inspire others to set ambitious goals and work diligently towards them. By acknowledging people’s accomplishments, we not only validate their hard work but also foster a culture of appreciation that can boost morale and productivity in various settings, be it in the workplace, educational institutions, or society at large.

Sample Question 2: Who do you consider to be a successful person in your country?

Band 6-7 Answer:
In my country, I consider [Name] to be a successful person. They are a well-known entrepreneur who started a popular tech company. Many people admire them for their innovative ideas and business skills.

Band 8-9 Answer:
In my country, [Name] is widely regarded as an exemplar of success. As the founder of a groundbreaking tech company, they have not only achieved remarkable financial prosperity but have also revolutionized the way we interact with technology in our daily lives. What truly sets them apart, in my opinion, is their unwavering commitment to innovation and their ability to anticipate and shape future trends. Moreover, their philanthropic efforts and initiatives to promote STEM education have earned them respect beyond the business world, making them a multifaceted role model for aspiring entrepreneurs and socially conscious individuals alike.

Successful Entrepreneur

Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)

In this section, you’ll be given a cue card with a specific topic and some bullet points to guide your speech. Here’s a sample cue card related to describing a person known for their achievements:

Describe a person who is known for their achievements

You should say:

• Who this person is
• What they have achieved
• How you know about this person
• And explain why you think their achievements are important

You’ll have one minute to prepare, and then you should speak for 1-2 minutes. Here’s a sample answer:

Band 6-7 Answer:

I’d like to talk about Malala Yousafzai, who is known for her achievements in education and women’s rights. She’s a young Pakistani activist who fought for girls’ right to education in her country.

Malala became famous when she was just a teenager. She wrote a blog for the BBC about life under Taliban rule and the importance of education for girls. In 2012, she was shot by the Taliban for her activism, but she survived and continued her work.

I first learned about Malala from news reports and later read her book. Her story was very inspiring to me.

I think Malala’s achievements are important because she brought global attention to the issue of girls’ education. She showed that young people can make a difference in the world. In 2014, she became the youngest person to win the Nobel Peace Prize. Her work has helped many girls go to school and inspired people around the world to fight for education rights.

Band 8-9 Answer:

I’d like to discuss Malala Yousafzai, a remarkable individual whose achievements in the realm of education and women’s rights have garnered worldwide acclaim. Malala, a young Pakistani activist, has become synonymous with the fight for girls’ education in regions where this basic right is often denied.

Malala’s journey to prominence began with her courageous decision to document life under Taliban rule for the BBC at the tender age of 11. Her blog shed light on the oppressive conditions faced by girls in her region, particularly regarding access to education. In 2012, Malala’s activism led to a harrowing incident where she was shot by Taliban gunmen, an event that catapulted her cause onto the global stage.

I first became aware of Malala through extensive media coverage following the assassination attempt. Subsequently, I delved deeper into her story by reading her autobiography, “I Am Malala,” which provided a profound insight into her experiences and motivations.

The importance of Malala’s achievements cannot be overstated. She has successfully leveraged her platform to bring unprecedented attention to the critical issue of girls’ education worldwide. Her advocacy has transcended geographical and cultural boundaries, inspiring millions and effecting tangible change. In 2014, at just 17 years old, Malala became the youngest recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize, a testament to the global impact of her work.

Moreover, Malala’s achievements exemplify the power of individual action in the face of adversity. She has demonstrated that age is not a barrier to making a significant difference in the world. Through the Malala Fund, she continues to champion educational initiatives globally, ensuring that her work has a lasting, practical impact on the lives of countless girls.

In essence, Malala’s achievements are important not just for the immediate changes they’ve brought about, but for the ripple effect they’ve created in inspiring a new generation of activists and change-makers. Her story serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of education and the indomitable strength of the human spirit.

Follow-up Questions

1. What qualities do you think contribute to Malala’s success as an activist?
2. How do you think her achievements have influenced other young people?
3. In what ways do you think education can change a person’s life?

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

In this section, the examiner will ask you more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:

Question 1: How do you think society benefits from celebrating individual achievements?

Band 6-7 Answer:
I think society benefits in several ways when we celebrate individual achievements. It can inspire others to work hard and achieve their goals. It also shows what’s possible and can encourage innovation. Celebrating achievements can also bring communities together and create a sense of pride.

Band 8-9 Answer:
The celebration of individual achievements yields multifaceted benefits for society. Firstly, it serves as a powerful catalyst for inspiration, motivating others to pursue excellence in their respective fields. This ripple effect of ambition can lead to increased innovation and productivity across various sectors.

Moreover, recognizing individual success fosters a culture of aspiration and demonstrates the tangible rewards of dedication and perseverance. This can be particularly impactful for younger generations, providing them with concrete role models and illustrating the diverse pathways to success.

Additionally, the acknowledgment of achievements often shines a spotlight on important issues or advancements that might otherwise go unnoticed. This increased awareness can mobilize resources and attention towards critical areas of societal development.

Lastly, celebrations of achievement can serve as a unifying force within communities, fostering a sense of collective pride and shared accomplishment. This social cohesion can strengthen community bonds and contribute to a more positive, supportive social environment.

Question 2: Do you think the media focuses too much on celebrities’ achievements rather than those of ordinary people?

Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I think the media often focuses too much on celebrities. While their achievements can be impressive, there are many ordinary people doing amazing things that don’t get as much attention. It would be good to see more balance in media coverage, highlighting achievements from all parts of society.

Band 8-9 Answer:
There’s no doubt that the media’s disproportionate focus on celebrity achievements is a pervasive issue in contemporary society. This skewed representation often overshadows the remarkable accomplishments of ordinary individuals, potentially leading to a distorted perception of success.

The media’s predilection for celebrity narratives is understandable from a commercial standpoint, as these stories often garner significant public interest and engagement. However, this trend can be problematic for several reasons. Firstly, it reinforces a narrow definition of achievement, often emphasizing fame and wealth over other equally valuable contributions to society.

Moreover, the constant spotlight on celebrity success can foster unrealistic expectations and feelings of inadequacy among the general public. This can be particularly detrimental to young people who may equate success solely with fame or material wealth.

That being said, there’s a growing movement towards more diverse storytelling in media, with many outlets now actively seeking out and promoting stories of ‘everyday heroes’. This shift is crucial as it provides a more balanced representation of achievement, highlighting the myriad ways in which ordinary people contribute to society.

Ideally, media coverage should strike a balance, acknowledging celebrity achievements while also giving due recognition to the often unsung accomplishments of individuals from all walks of life. This approach would not only provide a more accurate reflection of societal success but also inspire a broader range of aspirations among the public.

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test, it’s crucial to use a range of sophisticated vocabulary and phrases. Here are some key terms related to describing achievements:

1. Groundbreaking /ˈɡraʊnd.breɪ.kɪŋ/ (adjective): Very new and a big change from other things of its type.
   Example: Her groundbreaking research revolutionized cancer treatment.

2. Pioneering /ˌpaɪəˈnɪə.rɪŋ/ (adjective): Being one of the first to do something or develop something new.
   Example: He is known for his pioneering work in artificial intelligence.

3. To make strides (idiom): To make progress.
   Example: She has made significant strides in her career since graduating.

4. Paradigm shift /ˈpær.ə.daɪm ʃɪft/ (noun): A major change in the concepts and practices of how something works or is accomplished.
   Example: His invention caused a paradigm shift in how we think about renewable energy.

5. Trailblazer /ˈtreɪl.bleɪ.zər/ (noun): A person who is the first to do something or go somewhere, making it easier for others to follow.
   Example: She was a trailblazer for women’s rights in her country.

6. To leave a lasting legacy (phrase): To have a long-term impact that continues after one’s lifetime.
   Example: The scientist’s discoveries left a lasting legacy in the field of genetics.

7. Visionary /ˈvɪʒ.ən.er.i/ (adjective): Having or showing clear ideas about what should happen in the future.
   Example: His visionary leadership transformed the company into a global leader.

8. To break new ground (idiom): To do something that has not been done before.
   Example: The team broke new ground with their innovative approach to urban planning.

Tips from an IELTS Speaking Examiner

As an experienced IELTS Speaking examiner, here are some tips to help you achieve a high score:

1. Practice regularly: Familiarize yourself with a wide range of topics and practice speaking about them fluently.

2. Use varied vocabulary: Incorporate sophisticated words and phrases relevant to the topic.

3. Provide specific examples: Support your points with concrete examples to make your speech more engaging and credible.

4. Develop your ideas: Don’t just state facts; explain your thoughts and opinions in detail.

5. Work on pronunciation and intonation: Clear pronunciation and natural intonation can significantly improve your score.

6. Stay calm and confident: Remember, the examiner wants to hear you speak, so try to relax and showcase your language skills.

7. Listen carefully to the questions: Make sure you understand what’s being asked before you start speaking.

By following these tips and using the sample answers as inspiration, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle the “Describe a person who is known for their achievements” topic and other similar questions in your IELTS Speaking test. Remember, practice makes perfect, so keep working on your skills, and you’ll see improvement in no time.

For more guidance on IELTS Speaking topics, check out our articles on describing a person known for their kindness and describing a person who inspires you to keep learning.