IELTS Speaking exams often include topics about influential people in our lives. One common theme is describing someone who supports your goals. This article will guide you through answering such questions effectively, helping you achieve a high band score in your IELTS Speaking test.
Understanding the Topic
The topic “Describe a person who is very supportive of your goals” is frequently featured in IELTS Speaking tests. It allows examiners to assess your ability to talk about personal experiences, express emotions, and use descriptive language. This topic has appeared in past exams and is likely to continue being relevant in future tests.
Supportive person helping another achieve goals
IELTS Speaking Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, the examiner may ask general questions about support and goals. Here are some possible questions with sample answers:
Q: Do you have any personal goals at the moment?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I do. I’m currently working on improving my English skills to get a good score in the IELTS test. It’s important for my future studies abroad.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely. My primary objective at present is to enhance my English proficiency to achieve a competitive score in the IELTS exam. This goal is crucial for my aspirations to pursue postgraduate studies in an English-speaking country, which I believe will significantly broaden my academic and professional horizons.
IELTS Speaking Part 2: Long Turn
Cue Card
Describe a person who is very supportive of your goals
You should say:
- Who this person is
- How you know this person
- What goals this person has supported you with
- And explain why this person’s support is important to you
Sample Answer (Band 8-9)
I’d like to talk about my high school mathematics teacher, Mr. Johnson, who has been incredibly supportive of my academic and career goals.
I first met Mr. Johnson when I was in 10th grade, and he quickly became more than just a teacher – he became a mentor and a source of inspiration. His passion for mathematics was contagious, and he had a unique ability to make complex concepts accessible and exciting.
Mr. Johnson has supported me in various ways, but most significantly in my goal to pursue a degree in engineering. He recognized my aptitude for mathematics and encouraged me to challenge myself by participating in math competitions and advanced courses. He spent countless hours after school helping me prepare for these events and guiding me through difficult problem-solving techniques.
His support has been invaluable to me for several reasons. Firstly, he boosted my confidence in my mathematical abilities, which was crucial for my decision to pursue engineering. Secondly, his unwavering belief in my potential motivated me to push beyond my perceived limitations. Lastly, he provided practical support by writing recommendation letters for my college applications and connecting me with alumni in the engineering field.
Mr. Johnson’s support extends beyond academic guidance. He has also been a pillar of emotional support, always available to listen and offer advice when I faced challenges or doubts about my chosen path. His holistic approach to mentoring has helped me develop not just academically, but also personally.
In conclusion, Mr. Johnson’s support has been instrumental in shaping my academic journey and future career prospects. His dedication and belief in me have profoundly impacted my life, and I’m incredibly grateful for his ongoing support and guidance.
Follow-up Questions
- How has this person’s support changed over time?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Mr. Johnson’s support has grown stronger over time. As I progressed through high school, he gave me more challenging tasks and introduced me to more advanced concepts.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Mr. Johnson’s support has evolved significantly over time. Initially, his focus was on nurturing my interest in mathematics and building my foundational skills. As I progressed, his support became more targeted and sophisticated. He began challenging me with university-level problems and facilitating connections with professionals in the engineering field. This gradual progression in his support has been crucial in preparing me for the rigors of university studies and beyond.
- What qualities make someone a good supporter?
Band 6-7 Answer:
I think good supporters are patient, understanding, and encouraging. They should also have knowledge in the area they’re supporting you in.
Band 8-9 Answer:
In my opinion, an effective supporter possesses a multifaceted skill set. Firstly, they should have a deep understanding of the subject matter or field they’re supporting. Equally important are emotional intelligence and empathy, allowing them to provide not just practical guidance but also emotional support. A good supporter should be patient yet challenging, knowing when to push and when to offer encouragement. They should also be selfless in their support, genuinely invested in the other person’s success without seeking personal gain. Lastly, a great supporter is adaptable, able to tailor their approach to the individual’s changing needs and circumstances.
IELTS Speaking Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Examiner: Do you think it’s important for young people to have mentors?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I think mentors are very important for young people. They can provide guidance and share their experience, which can help young people make better decisions about their future.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely, I believe mentors play a crucial role in the development of young individuals. Mentors offer a unique blend of wisdom, experience, and guidance that can be invaluable for young people navigating their personal and professional lives. They can provide insights into real-world challenges that textbooks or formal education might not cover. Moreover, mentors can serve as role models, demonstrating professional ethics and personal values. They can also expand a young person’s network, opening doors to opportunities that might otherwise be inaccessible. However, it’s important to note that the effectiveness of mentorship depends on the compatibility between the mentor and mentee, as well as the mentee’s receptiveness to guidance.
Examiner: How has the concept of mentorship changed with the rise of social media and online communities?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Social media and online communities have made mentorship more accessible. Now, people can find mentors online and get advice from experts all over the world. It’s easier to connect with people who have similar interests or goals.
Band 8-9 Answer:
The advent of social media and online communities has fundamentally transformed the landscape of mentorship. This digital revolution has democratized access to expertise, allowing individuals to connect with potential mentors across geographical boundaries. Online platforms have given rise to virtual mentorship programs and peer-to-peer learning communities, which offer more flexible and diverse mentoring experiences.
However, this shift also presents new challenges. The abundance of information available online can be overwhelming, making it crucial for mentees to develop critical thinking skills to discern quality advice. Moreover, the lack of face-to-face interaction in online mentorship can sometimes limit the depth of the relationship and the nuanced understanding that comes from in-person communication.
On the positive side, social media has enabled micro-mentoring – short-term, focused interactions that can be highly effective for specific goals. It has also facilitated reverse mentoring, where younger individuals mentor older colleagues on technology and contemporary trends.
In essence, while traditional mentorship remains valuable, the digital age has expanded the definition and scope of mentoring, making it more accessible, diverse, and adaptable to individual needs.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
Instrumental /ˌɪnstrəˈmentl/ (adjective): Very important in helping to achieve something.
Example: “Her support was instrumental in my success.”Unwavering /ʌnˈweɪvərɪŋ/ (adjective): Steady, constant, not changing.
Example: “His unwavering belief in my abilities gave me confidence.”Contagious /kənˈteɪdʒəs/ (adjective): Spreading quickly from one person to another.
Example: “Her enthusiasm for the project was contagious.”To nurture /ˈnɜːrtʃər/ (verb): To help someone or something to develop and be successful.
Example: “She nurtured my interest in science from an early age.”Holistic approach /həˈlɪstɪk əˈprəʊtʃ/ (noun phrase): Dealing with the whole of something, not just a part.
Example: “He took a holistic approach to mentoring, focusing on both academic and personal growth.”
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test when describing a supportive person:
- Use a variety of descriptive adjectives and adverbs to make your speech more vivid and engaging.
- Incorporate idiomatic expressions and advanced vocabulary naturally in your responses.
- Provide specific examples to illustrate your points, making your answers more concrete and memorable.
- Practice speaking about different people who have supported you in various aspects of your life to be prepared for any variation of this topic.
- Focus on fluency and coherence by organizing your thoughts logically and using appropriate linking words.
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Speaking is not just about what you say, but how you say it. Confidence, clarity, and the ability to elaborate on your ideas are crucial factors in achieving a high band score.
For more tips on improving your IELTS Speaking skills, check out our guide on how to describe a person who has motivated you to work harder.