When discussing someone you admire for their achievements in the IELTS Speaking test, it’s crucial to provide detailed and well-structured responses that showcase your English proficiency. Similar to describe a famous artist or entertainer you admire, this topic frequently appears in IELTS examinations and requires careful preparation.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview Questions
Common questions you may encounter:
- Do you often admire people’s achievements?
- What kind of achievements do you value most?
- How do you celebrate your own achievements?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I frequently find myself inspired by people’s accomplishments, particularly those who have overcome significant obstacles to achieve their goals. I especially value achievements that have a positive impact on society, whether through innovation, leadership, or humanitarian work. When it comes to my own achievements, I prefer to celebrate modestly with close friends and family while focusing on setting new goals.”
Part 2: Cue Card
Your task is to describe a person you admire for their achievements. You should say:
- Who this person is
- What they have achieved
- How you know about them
- And explain why you admire their achievements
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to talk about Dr. Jane Goodall, a renowned primatologist and environmental activist whose work has profoundly influenced wildlife conservation. Her groundbreaking research on chimpanzees has revolutionized our understanding of these remarkable creatures and their relationship with humans.
I first learned about Dr. Goodall through a documentary that captivated my attention with her extraordinary dedication and passion. What particularly strikes me about her achievements is not just her scientific discoveries, but her unwavering commitment to environmental conservation and education spanning over six decades.
The reason I deeply admire her accomplishments is that she has demonstrated exceptional perseverance in the face of numerous challenges. She started her research with no formal training, yet through her meticulous observations and innovative approaches, she made discoveries that challenged existing scientific paradigms.”
For those interested in describe a person who is a good role model for others, this response structure can be similarly effective.
Part 3: Discussion Questions
Q: How do social media influence people’s perception of achievement?
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“Social media has fundamentally transformed how we view and celebrate achievements. While it has democratized recognition by giving visibility to diverse accomplishments, it has also created a potentially distorted perspective where instant gratification and surface-level success are often prioritized over meaningful, long-term achievements.”
Q: Should children be taught about famous achievers in school?
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“It’s absolutely crucial to expose children to notable achievers, as these stories can serve as powerful sources of inspiration. However, it’s equally important to present a balanced narrative that includes both the successes and struggles, helping children understand that achievement often requires persistence and resilience.”
Much like describe a historical figure you would like to learn more about, discussing achievers requires careful consideration of their impact and legacy.
Key Vocabulary and Expressions
- Groundbreaking /ˈɡraʊnd.breɪ.kɪŋ/ (adj): Innovative and pioneering
- Paradigm shift /ˈpær.ə.daɪm ʃɪft/ (n): A fundamental change in approach
- Unwavering commitment /ʌnˈweɪ.vər.ɪŋ kəˈmɪt.mənt/ (phrase): Steady dedication
- Exemplary /ɪɡˈzem.plər.i/ (adj): Serving as an ideal example
- Revolutionary /ˌrev.əˈluː.ʃən.er.i/ (adj): Causing complete change
Similar to when you describe a time when you met someone you look up to, these expressions can help articulate your admiration effectively.