As an experienced IELTS examiner, I’ve noticed that describing a disciplined person is a common topic in the IELTS Speaking test. This article will guide you through answering questions about disciplined individuals, providing sample responses and key vocabulary to help you achieve a high band score.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask you general questions about discipline and habits. Here’s a sample question with a suggested answer:
Question: Do you consider yourself a disciplined person?
Sample answer:
“I’d say I’m fairly disciplined in certain aspects of my life. For instance, I stick to a strict routine when it comes to my work and studies. I always set clear goals for myself and make a conscious effort to achieve them. However, I must admit that I can be a bit lax in other areas, like maintaining a consistent exercise regimen. It’s something I’m actively working on improving.”
Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)
Here’s a potential cue card related to describing a disciplined person:
Describe a person who is very disciplined in their habits
You should say:
- Who this person is
- What habits they have
- How you know about their habits
- And explain why you think they are disciplined
Sample answer:
“I’d like to talk about my uncle, Robert, who is incredibly disciplined in his daily habits. He’s been a role model for me in terms of self-discipline for as long as I can remember.
One of his most notable habits is his unwavering commitment to early rising. Without fail, he wakes up at 5 AM every day, regardless of whether it’s a workday or a weekend. This early start allows him to maximize his productivity throughout the day. He also adheres to a strict diet, focusing on nutritious, home-cooked meals and abstaining from processed foods and sugary drinks.
Another impressive habit of his is his dedication to physical fitness. He religiously follows a workout routine, exercising for at least an hour every day. What’s more, he’s meticulously organized in both his personal and professional life, always keeping his living and working spaces tidy and efficiently managed.
I’ve observed these habits firsthand during my frequent visits to his home and through our regular conversations. His consistency never ceases to amaze me.
I consider my uncle to be exceptionally disciplined because of his unwavering commitment to these habits. He doesn’t let circumstances or mood swings affect his routine. Even when faced with challenges or temptations, he demonstrates remarkable self-control and sticks to his principles. His discipline has led to numerous achievements in his career and personal life, serving as a testament to the power of consistent, positive habits.”
Follow-up questions:
- How did your uncle develop such disciplined habits?
- Has his discipline influenced you in any way?
Sample answers:
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“From what I understand, my uncle cultivated these habits over time through persistent effort and self-reflection. He realized early in his career that discipline was key to success, so he gradually incorporated these practices into his daily routine. He often mentions that it took years of conscious effort and self-motivation to make these habits second nature.”
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“Absolutely. His discipline has been a major source of inspiration for me. Observing his success and well-balanced life has motivated me to improve my own habits. I’ve started waking up earlier and prioritizing my health and fitness. While I’m not yet at his level of discipline, I’m making steady progress and can already see the positive impact on my productivity and overall well-being.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In this section, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to discipline and habits. Here are some potential questions with sample answers:
Q1: Do you think discipline is an innate trait or can it be developed?
Sample answer: “While some people may have a natural inclination towards self-discipline, I firmly believe that it’s a skill that can be developed and honed over time. Just like any other skill, discipline requires consistent practice and conscious effort.
We often see examples of individuals who have transformed their lives through developing disciplined habits. This suggests that discipline is not solely determined by genetics or early upbringing. Rather, it’s something that can be cultivated through determination and the right strategies.
That being said, environmental factors and early experiences can certainly influence one’s tendency towards discipline. People who grow up in structured environments or have disciplined role models might find it easier to develop these habits. However, this doesn’t mean that those without such advantages can’t become disciplined. It might require more effort, but it’s definitely achievable.”
Q2: How important is discipline in achieving success in today’s society?
Sample answer: “I believe discipline plays a crucial role in achieving success in our modern society. In today’s fast-paced, competitive world, the ability to stay focused and consistently work towards one’s goals can be a significant differentiator.
Discipline helps individuals prioritize their tasks, manage their time efficiently, and maintain high standards in their work. These qualities are highly valued in most professional settings. Moreover, in an age of constant distractions, those who can resist immediate gratification and focus on long-term objectives often gain a competitive edge.
However, it’s important to note that discipline alone doesn’t guarantee success. Other factors like creativity, adaptability, and emotional intelligence are also crucial. The most successful individuals often strike a balance between discipline and flexibility, knowing when to stick to their routines and when to adapt to changing circumstances.
Furthermore, in our increasingly interconnected world, discipline extends beyond personal habits. It includes the ability to collaborate effectively, meet deadlines, and maintain professional relationships. These aspects of discipline are often key determinants of success in both personal and professional spheres.”
Key Vocabulary and Phrases
To enhance your IELTS Speaking performance, incorporate these advanced words and phrases:
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Unwavering commitment (noun phrase) – /ʌnˈweɪvərɪŋ kəˈmɪtmənt/ – A dedication that never falters
Example: His unwavering commitment to his goals inspired everyone around him. -
Meticulously organized (adverb + adjective) – /məˈtɪkjələsli ˈɔːɡənaɪzd/ – Extremely careful and precise about order and detail
Example: Her meticulously organized workspace reflected her disciplined approach to work. -
Cultivate (verb) – /ˈkʌltɪveɪt/ – To develop or acquire a quality, sentiment, or skill
Example: It took years for him to cultivate the habit of early rising. -
Prioritize (verb) – /praɪˈɒrətaɪz/ – To arrange items to be dealt with in order of importance
Example: Learning to prioritize tasks is a key aspect of self-discipline. -
Strike a balance (idiom) – /straɪk ə ˈbæləns/ – To find a compromise between two contrasting things
Example: The most successful people often strike a balance between work and personal life.
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test when describing a disciplined person:
- Use a variety of vocabulary and avoid repetition. Incorporate advanced words and phrases like those mentioned above.
- Provide specific examples to support your points. This demonstrates your ability to communicate ideas clearly.
- Use a range of grammatical structures, including complex sentences.
- Practice speaking on this topic to improve fluency. Record yourself and listen back to identify areas for improvement.
- Be prepared to discuss discipline from various angles – personal experiences, societal impact, and abstract concepts.
Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is not just about knowing the topic, but also about demonstrating your language skills effectively.
For more tips on IELTS Speaking, check out our articles on describing an organized person and discussing discipline in life.