The IELTS Speaking test evaluates key aspects such as fluency, coherence, lexical resource, grammatical range and accuracy, and pronunciation. Being able to describe a person who is very committed to their goals is a frequently asked topic that allows examiners to assess these skills.
In this article, we will delve into the following:
- Commonly asked questions in Part 1.
- Detailed cue card and response for Part 2.
- Two-way discussion questions and responses in Part 3.
- Essential vocabulary and sentence structures for scoring high.
- Expert tips for practice and preparation.
Get prepared to deliver an impressive response in your IELTS Speaking test on the topic “Describe a Person Who Is Very Committed to Their Goals.”
II. Main Content
1. Part 1: Introduction and Interview Questions
In this section, examiners usually ask personal and general questions related to your background, hobbies, or opinions. Here are examples of potential questions:
- Can you describe someone you admire?
- What are your personal goals?
Sample Question and Suggested Answer
Question: Who is someone you really admire and why?
Answer: I really admire my older sister because she is incredibly committed to her career goals. Ever since she was in high school, she has always set clear objectives for herself—whether it was obtaining high grades, securing a scholarship for university, or excelling in her job. Her dedication and persistence have not only helped her achieve her aspirations but also inspired me to stay focused on my own goals.
2. Part 2: Long Turn
Sample Cue Card
Describe a person who is very committed to their goals.
You should say:
- Who this person is
- What their goals are
- How they achieve these goals
- And explain how you feel about their commitment
Suggested Answer
Let me describe my friend Jack, who is exceptionally committed to his goals. Jack’s main objective has always been to become a professional athlete, specifically a marathon runner. From a very young age, Jack has maintained an extraordinary focus on his athletic ambitions.
First of all, Jack sets clear and realistic goals periodically, such as improving his running time by certain margins. He follows a strict training regimen that includes long runs, interval training, and strength exercises. Additionally, Jack keeps a close watch on his nutrition and mental health, understanding that achieving peak performance demands a holistic approach.
Moreover, Jack regularly participates in local and international marathons, constantly measuring his progress against his targets. His relentless dedication is evident in the fact that he trains early in the morning, regardless of the weather conditions.
I personally find Jack’s commitment both inspiring and motivating. His unwavering determination not only helps him achieve his goals but also encourages people around him to strive for their best. Jack embodies the principle that consistent effort and unwavering focus can lead to remarkable achievements.
Follow-up Questions and Suggested Answers
Question: How do you feel about the challenges Jack faces?
Answer: I feel that while the challenges Jack faces are immense, they also act as a fuel to intensify his drive. The physical strain and mental exertion required in his training are daunting, yet he views them as obstacles to be overcome rather than deterrents. His positive outlook on challenges is truly admirable.
Question: Do you think commitment to goals is important for everyone?
Answer: Absolutely, yes. I believe that having a strong commitment to one’s goals provides direction and purpose in life. It not only helps individuals achieve their personal and professional targets but also builds a sense of self-discipline and resilience, which are crucial characteristics for overcoming life’s various hurdles.
3. Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In Part 3, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic discussed in Part 2. Here are some possible questions and answers:
Question: In your opinion, what motivates people to commit to their goals?
Answer: I think various factors motivate people to commit to their goals. Personal ambition and the desire for success are significant drivers. Additionally, social influences, such as support from family and friends, as well as societal expectations, can also play a crucial role. Some individuals are driven by the intrinsic satisfaction of achieving their targets, while others might be motivated by external rewards like recognition or financial gains.
Question: Do you think setting goals can sometimes lead to stress?
Answer: Yes, it can. While setting goals is generally beneficial, it can sometimes lead to stress, especially if the goals are unrealistic or put undue pressure on an individual. It’s important to set achievable and manageable objectives and to have coping strategies in place to handle stress. Balance is key to ensuring that the drive to achieve does not become detrimental.
Question: How important is it for children to learn about goal setting?
Answer: It is extremely important. Learning about goal setting from a young age can instill essential skills such as planning, time management, and perseverance. It teaches children how to set SMART goals—specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound goals—which can help them succeed in various aspects of life, from education to personal development.
Person Committed to Goals
4. Vocabulary and Sentence Structures for High Scores
Essential Vocabulary
- Persistent /pəˈsɪstənt/ – Continuing firmly in a course of action despite difficulty.
- E.g., “Her persistent effort finally paid off.”
- Motivated /ˈmoʊtɪˌveɪtɪd/ – Provided with a motive; enthusiastic.
- E.g., “He is highly motivated to achieve his dreams.”
- Determined /dɪˈtɜrmɪnd/ – Having made a firm decision and being resolved not to change it.
- E.g., “She is a very determined person.”
- Resilience /rɪˈzɪliəns/ – The capacity to recover quickly from difficulties.
- E.g., “His resilience allowed him to bounce back from setbacks.”
Phrases and Sentence Structures
- …embodies the principle that…
- This phrase is used to encapsulate the essence or core idea.
- E.g., “He embodies the principle that consistent effort leads to success.”
- Regardless of the circumstances…
- Indicates doing something despite the situations.
- E.g., “She trains every morning regardless of the circumstances.”
- Holistic approach…
- Refers to considering the whole system, not just separate parts.
- E.g., “A holistic approach to training includes diet, exercise, and mental health.”
III. Expert Tips for Practicing
- Practice Speaking Regularly: Engage in regular speaking practice sessions, focusing on fluency and coherence.
- Expand Vocabulary: Use a variety of high-level vocabulary and ensure accurate pronunciation.
- Simulate Real Exam Conditions: Practice under timed conditions and record yourself to evaluate performance.
- Seek Feedback: Get constructive feedback from teachers or peers to identify areas of improvement.
- Engage in Conversations on Various Topics: Broaden your range of topics to become more versatile in your responses.
By following these guidelines and thoroughly preparing, you will be well on your way to achieving a high score in the IELTS Speaking test. Best of luck!