A common IELTS Speaking topic that frequently appears in examinations is describing someone you depend on. This theme allows candidates to demonstrate their ability to express personal relationships, emotions, and character descriptions while showcasing their language proficiency.
IELTS Speaking Examiner and Candidate During Test
Part 1: Introduction and Interview Questions
Common questions in this section include:
- Do you often rely on others for help?
- Who do you usually turn to when you need support?
- Is it important to be independent?
Similar to how one might describe a park or garden in your area, the key is to provide detailed yet concise responses.
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“While I value my independence, I believe it’s natural to rely on others sometimes. I typically turn to my mother for emotional support and guidance, as she has always been my pillar of strength. However, I try to maintain a healthy balance between seeking help and being self-reliant.”
Part 2: Cue Card
Describe a person you rely on
You should say:
- Who this person is
- How you know them
- What kind of help they provide
- And explain why you rely on this person
Professional Mentorship and Support in Workplace
Sample Answer (Band 6-7):
“I want to talk about my senior colleague, John. I met him when I started working at my company two years ago. He’s very experienced and always helps me with work-related problems. He explains things clearly and gives good advice. I rely on him because he’s knowledgeable and patient.”
Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to share about my mentor, Professor Richardson, whom I first encountered during my postgraduate studies. She has been an invaluable source of both academic and professional guidance. What sets her apart is her exceptional ability to provide constructive feedback while maintaining unwavering support. I particularly appreciate her analytical approach to problem-solving and her willingness to share her vast experience.”
Just as you might describe a time when you disagreed with someone, it’s important to provide specific examples and detailed explanations.
Part 3: Discussion Questions
Q1: Why do people sometimes find it difficult to ask for help?
Band 8-9 Response:
“People often hesitate to seek assistance due to their fear of appearing vulnerable or incompetent. There’s also a prevailing societal emphasis on self-reliance that can make individuals feel they’re somehow failing if they need support. However, I believe acknowledging our limitations and seeking help actually demonstrates emotional intelligence and self-awareness.”
Q2: Has modern technology changed the way people rely on each other?
Band 8-9 Response:
“Technology has fundamentally transformed interpersonal dependencies. While it has made certain forms of assistance more accessible, such as online tutorials and virtual consultations, it has also potentially diminished face-to-face support systems. This shift has profound implications for how we build and maintain support networks in our increasingly digital world.”
Key Vocabulary and Phrases
- Pillar of strength /ˈpɪlər əv streŋθ/ (noun phrase) – a reliable source of support
- Invaluable /ɪnˈvæljuəbl/ (adj) – extremely useful
- Constructive feedback /kənˈstrʌktɪv ˈfiːdbæk/ (noun phrase) – helpful and useful criticism
- Unwavering support /ʌnˈweɪvərɪŋ səˈpɔːt/ (noun phrase) – consistent and steady assistance
When discussing personal relationships, like describing a memorable outdoor activity you did alone, it’s crucial to use precise vocabulary and natural expressions.
Examiner’s Tips
- Develop your responses with specific examples
- Use a range of advanced vocabulary appropriately
- Show awareness of different aspects of dependency
- Maintain good fluency while expressing complex ideas
- Include personal experiences to make your answers more authentic
Just as with describing a foreign food you want to try, ensure your descriptions are vivid and engaging while maintaining appropriate language use.
