The IELTS Speaking Test is designed to assess your spoken English skills across a range of common topics. Part 2 of the test, also known as the “Long Turn,” requires you to speak about a given topic for 1-2 minutes. The examiner will evaluate your fluency and coherence, lexical resource, grammatical range and accuracy, and pronunciation. A popular question in Part 2 often focuses on describing an inspirational person in their field. This topic not only tests your language skills but also your ability to structure your thoughts logically.
II. Main Content:
1. Common Questions in Part 1: Introduction and Interview
During Part 1, the examiner will ask you general questions about yourself. These questions are designed to get you talking about familiar topics. Here are a few examples:
- Where are you from?
- What do you do for a living?
- Can you describe your hometown?
Example Answer for “Can you describe your hometown?”
“My hometown is a vibrant city located along the coast. It’s known for its historical landmarks, bustling markets, and scenic beaches. The city has a rich cultural heritage, reflected in its architecture and festivals. Besides, it offers a wide range of recreational activities, making it a great place to live and explore.”
2. Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card and Suggested Answer)
Cue Card:
Describe A Person Who Is Very Inspiring In Their Field.
You should say:
- Who this person is
- How you know this person
- What they have done that is inspiring
- And explain how this person has inspired you
Suggested Answer:
“One person who is incredibly inspiring in their field is Dr. Jane Goodall, a renowned primatologist and conservationist. I first learned about her through a documentary I watched in college, which detailed her groundbreaking research on chimpanzees in Tanzania.
Dr. Goodall is truly pioneering in her approach to studying animal behavior. Unlike her predecessors, she immersed herself in the chimpanzee community, observing and documenting their social structures, tool use, and emotional complexity. Her work has fundamentally changed our understanding of primates and, by extension, human evolution.
What makes Dr. Goodall particularly inspiring is not just her scientific contributions but also her relentless advocacy for wildlife conservation and environmental sustainability. She founded the Jane Goodall Institute, which focuses on wildlife research, education, and advocacy projects worldwide.
Dr. Goodall has inspired me deeply by demonstrating how one person’s dedication and perseverance can make a substantial impact. Her life and work encourage me to approach my own goals with passion and commitment, no matter the obstacles.”
Follow-up Questions and Suggested Answers:
-
Why do you think some people are more inspiring than others?
“Some people stand out as more inspiring due to their exceptional achievements and the way they overcome significant challenges. Their stories often resonate with universal values such as resilience, innovation, and compassion, making them relatable and motivational.” -
Do you believe that everyone has the potential to inspire others?
“Yes, I believe that everyone possesses the potential to inspire. Inspiration comes not only from great achievements but also from small acts of kindness and determination. It’s about how we connect with others and the positive influence we exert in our communities.”
3. Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Examiner Questions and Suggested Answers:
-
In your opinion, what qualities make a person an effective leader and an inspiration to others?
“An effective leader and an inspirational figure typically possess qualities such as integrity, vision, and empathy. They are adaptable and decisive, leading by example and inspiring others through their actions and principles.” -
Can you think of a situation where collective effort was more inspiring than individual achievement?
“Certainly, the global response to humanitarian crises often demonstrates the power of collective effort. For instance, the collaborative work of different organizations and volunteers during natural disasters shows how shared goals and teamwork can bring about tremendous positive change and inspire communities worldwide.”
4. Vocabulary and Key Structures for High Scores:
Vocabulary:
- Inspiring /ɪnˈspaɪərɪŋ/ (adj): Providing motivation and enthusiasm.
Example: Her inspiring speech moved everyone in the audience. - Pioneering /ˌpaɪəˈnɪərɪŋ/ (adj): Being the first to use or apply new methods.
Example: His pioneering work in renewable energy has revolutionized the industry. - Dedication /ˌdɛdɪˈkeɪʃən/ (n): Complete commitment to a cause or activity.
Example: Her dedication to her craft is evident in her flawless performances. - Perseverance /ˌpɜːsɪˈvɪərəns/ (n): Persistence in doing something despite difficulty or delay.
Example: Through perseverance, he overcame all the obstacles in his path. - Compassion /kəmˈpæʃən/ (n): Sympathy and concern for the sufferings of others.
Example: Her compassion for the underprivileged drives her charitable work.
III. Tips for Practicing to Achieve High Scores:
- Practice Speaking Regularly: Regular practice can help build your fluency and confidence.
- Record and Review: Record your answers and review them to identify areas for improvement.
- Use a Wide Range of Vocabulary: Incorporate advanced vocabulary and diverse grammatical structures.
- Stay Calm and Composed: Maintain your composure during the test and take a moment to gather your thoughts before answering.
- Seek Feedback: Get feedback from teachers, peers, or language partners to refine your speaking skills.
By diligently preparing and focusing on these key elements, you can enhance your performance and achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking Test.
For more details on describing a person who is very dedicated or intelligent in their field, you can check the following resources:
- Describe a person who is very dedicated to their work
- Describe a person who is very intelligent in their field
By reviewing these examples and incorporating varied vocabulary and coherent structures, you can elevate your IELTS speaking responses to a higher level.