The topic “describe a person who makes you feel calm” is a common one in IELTS Speaking tests. It has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to continue being a popular choice for examiners. This topic allows candidates to demonstrate their ability to describe people, express emotions, and use a range of vocabulary related to personality traits and interpersonal relationships.
Describe a piece of music that makes you feel relaxed is another related topic that can help you prepare for this type of question. Both topics require you to express feelings and describe calming influences in your life.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask you some general questions about calmness and relaxation. Here are a few potential questions:
- Do you consider yourself a calm person?
- What activities help you feel calm?
- Is it important to have calm people in your life?
Let’s focus on question 3 and provide a sample answer:
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“Yes, I believe it’s crucial to have calm people in our lives. They can be a stabilizing influence during stressful times and help us maintain our own sense of balance. Calm individuals often have a soothing presence that can diffuse tension in difficult situations. Moreover, they can serve as role models, teaching us how to respond to challenges with composure and rationality.”
Part 2: Long Turn
Here’s a cue card related to the topic:
Describe a person who makes you feel calm
You should say:
- Who this person is
- How you know this person
- What this person does to make you feel calm
- And explain why this person has this effect on you
Sample answer (Band 6-7):
“I’d like to talk about my grandmother, who has always been a source of calmness in my life. I’ve known her since I was born, of course, and we’ve always had a close relationship.
What makes her so calming is her gentle demeanor and patience. Whenever I visit her, she greets me with a warm smile and immediately makes me feel at ease. She has a way of listening attentively without judgment, which allows me to open up about any problems or concerns I might have.
One thing she often does to help me feel calm is make a cup of her special herbal tea. As we sit together, sipping the tea, she shares stories from her life or offers words of wisdom. Her voice is soft and soothing, and her presence alone seems to slow down the hectic pace of life.
I think she has this effect on me because she represents stability and unconditional love. No matter what’s happening in my life, I know I can always count on her support and understanding. Her calm nature reminds me to take a step back and approach challenges with a clear mind.”
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to describe my mentor, Dr. Sarah Johnson, who has an extraordinarily calming influence on me. I first met her five years ago when I enrolled in her advanced psychology course at university, and since then, our relationship has evolved into a close mentorship.
What sets Dr. Johnson apart is her remarkable ability to create an atmosphere of tranquility, even in the most high-pressure situations. Her approach to problem-solving is methodical and level-headed, which invariably helps to alleviate my anxiety when I’m facing challenges.
One of her most effective techniques for instilling calmness is her use of mindfulness practices. She often guides me through brief meditation exercises, encouraging me to focus on my breath and ground myself in the present moment. These sessions, though short, are incredibly potent in reducing stress and clearing my mind.
I believe Dr. Johnson has this profound effect on me for several reasons. Firstly, her extensive knowledge and experience in psychology give her insights that are both reassuring and enlightening. Secondly, her unwavering belief in my abilities boosts my confidence and helps me approach difficulties with a calm determination. Lastly, her own serene demeanor serves as a constant reminder of the power of emotional regulation and resilience in the face of adversity.”
Follow-up questions:
- How does this person’s calmness affect others around them?
- Do you think being calm is a skill that can be learned?
Sample answer for question 1 (Band 8-9):
“Dr. Johnson’s calmness has a ripple effect on those around her. In academic settings, her composed demeanor helps to create a conducive learning environment, allowing students to engage more deeply with complex topics without feeling overwhelmed. In professional contexts, her ability to maintain composure under pressure often defuses tense situations, leading to more productive discussions and effective problem-solving. Moreover, her calmness is contagious – people tend to mirror her peaceful state, which can transform the atmosphere of an entire room or group dynamic.”
Sample answer for question 2 (Band 8-9):
“Absolutely, I firmly believe that calmness is a skill that can be cultivated and refined over time. While some individuals may have a natural predisposition towards calmness, it’s not an innate trait that one either possesses or lacks. Through consistent practice of techniques such as mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, and cognitive reframing, anyone can develop a calmer disposition. It’s akin to strengthening a muscle – the more one practices remaining calm in various situations, the more automatic and ingrained this response becomes. However, it does require dedication, self-awareness, and a willingness to confront and manage one’s emotional responses.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In this section, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:
- Do you think modern society values calmness?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“I believe modern society has a paradoxical relationship with calmness. On one hand, there’s a growing recognition of the importance of mental health and well-being, which has led to increased interest in practices like meditation and mindfulness. This suggests that people do value calmness and are actively seeking ways to cultivate it in their lives.
However, on the other hand, our fast-paced, technology-driven world often glorifies busyness and constant productivity. Social media and the 24/7 news cycle can create a sense of urgency and anxiety that runs counter to calmness. Many people feel pressured to always be ‘on’ and responsive, which can make it challenging to find moments of true tranquility.
So while I think there’s a growing appreciation for calmness, there’s also significant societal pressure that works against it. It’s a balance that many are struggling to find in the modern world.”
- How can schools help students develop a calmer approach to life?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“Schools can play a pivotal role in helping students develop a calmer approach to life through various strategic initiatives. Firstly, integrating mindfulness practices into the daily curriculum could be immensely beneficial. This could involve short meditation sessions at the beginning of classes or teaching students simple breathing techniques to manage stress.
Secondly, schools could redesign their physical environments to promote calmness. This might include creating quiet spaces for reflection, incorporating natural elements like plants and water features, and using calming colors in classrooms.
Moreover, schools should consider revising their approach to academic pressure. While maintaining high standards is important, there needs to be a greater emphasis on balanced achievement rather than excessive competition. This could involve more formative assessments and fewer high-stakes tests, allowing students to learn without constant anxiety about grades.
Additionally, teaching emotional intelligence as part of the core curriculum could equip students with valuable tools for managing their emotions and responding calmly to challenges. This could include lessons on self-awareness, empathy, and conflict resolution.
Lastly, schools could partner with mental health professionals to provide resources and support for students struggling with anxiety or stress. By normalizing conversations about mental health and providing accessible support, schools can create an environment where calmness is valued and actively cultivated.”
Describe a beach you like to visit for relaxation is another topic that can help you practice describing calming environments and experiences.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases
To achieve a high score in your IELTS Speaking test, it’s crucial to use a range of sophisticated vocabulary and phrases. Here are some key terms related to the topic of calmness:
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Serene /sɪˈriːn/ (adjective): Calm, peaceful, and untroubled.
Example: “Her serene presence immediately put everyone at ease.” -
Composure /kəmˈpəʊʒə(r)/ (noun): The state of being calm and in control of one’s emotions.
Example: “Despite the chaos around him, he maintained his composure.” -
Tranquility /træŋˈkwɪləti/ (noun): The quality or state of being calm and quiet.
Example: “The garden’s tranquility provided a welcome escape from the busy city.” -
To diffuse tension (phrase): To reduce or eliminate stress or conflict in a situation.
Example: “Her calm demeanor helped to diffuse the tension in the room.” -
Grounding /ˈɡraʊndɪŋ/ (noun): The practice of focusing on the present moment to reduce anxiety.
Example: “Practicing grounding techniques can help you feel more calm and centered.”
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when describing a person who makes you feel calm:
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Use a variety of descriptive language: Incorporate a range of adjectives and adverbs to vividly portray the person and their calming effect on you.
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Provide specific examples: Instead of general statements, give concrete instances of how the person makes you feel calm.
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Employ advanced grammatical structures: Use complex sentences, conditionals, and passive voice where appropriate to demonstrate your language proficiency.
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Show reflection: Explain why you think this person has a calming effect on you, demonstrating your ability to analyze and reflect.
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Practice fluency: While accuracy is important, aim to speak smoothly and naturally, without too many hesitations or pauses.
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Expand on your answers: In Part 3, develop your responses with explanations, examples, and personal opinions to showcase your ability to discuss abstract ideas.
Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is practice. Regularly engage in conversations about a variety of topics, record yourself speaking, and seek feedback to continually improve your skills.
Describe a song that makes you happy is another topic that can help you practice expressing emotions and describing positive influences, which can be useful when discussing people who make you feel calm.