Mastering IELTS Speaking: How to Describe a Public Figure You Admire for Their Work

The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about influential people and their contributions to society. One common topic that frequently appears is describing a public figure you admire for their work. This article will provide you with valuable insights and strategies to excel in this particular speaking task, helping you achieve a higher band score in your IELTS Speaking exam.

Describe a famous person from your country you admire is a related topic that may also come up in your IELTS Speaking test. Being prepared for both will give you an advantage in the exam.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In Part 1, the examiner may ask you some general questions related to public figures and admiration. Here are a few potential questions you might encounter:

1. Do you follow any public figures on social media?
2. What qualities do you admire in a public figure?
3. How do public figures influence young people in your country?

Let’s focus on question 2 and provide a sample answer:

Sample Answer (Band 7-8):

“There are several qualities I admire in public figures. Firstly, I greatly respect those who demonstrate strong leadership skills and the ability to inspire others. Additionally, I admire individuals who show genuine compassion and use their platform to make a positive impact on society. Lastly, I appreciate public figures who maintain their integrity and stay true to their values, even in the face of challenges or criticism.”

Part 2: Long Turn

Now, let’s move on to Part 2, where you’ll be given a cue card to speak about for 1-2 minutes. Here’s a sample cue card related to our topic:

Describe a public figure you admire for their work

You should say:
- Who this person is
- What they do
- How you first learned about them
- And explain why you admire their work

Sample Answer (Band 6-7):

“I’d like to talk about a public figure I greatly admire for their work, and that’s Malala Yousafzai, the Pakistani activist for female education. Malala is known for her tireless efforts to promote education for girls, especially in regions where it’s often denied.

I first learned about Malala when I read news articles about her courageous stand against the Taliban’s attempts to deny girls education in her hometown. Despite facing life-threatening situations, including being shot for her activism, she continued to advocate for girls’ rights to education.

What I admire most about Malala’s work is her unwavering commitment to her cause. She has used her platform to raise awareness about the importance of education globally. Her efforts have inspired millions and led to real change in policies and attitudes towards girls’ education in many countries.

Malala’s work goes beyond just speaking about the issues. She has established the Malala Fund, which works to provide quality education to girls around the world. Her resilience and determination in the face of adversity are truly inspiring.

In conclusion, I admire Malala Yousafzai for her remarkable courage, her impactful work in promoting education, and her ability to turn personal tragedy into a force for positive change. She serves as a powerful role model for young people everywhere, showing that one person can indeed make a difference in the world.”

Malala Yousafzai delivering a speech at a podium

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):

“I’d like to discuss a public figure whose work I deeply admire, Dr. Jane Goodall, the world-renowned primatologist and anthropologist. Dr. Goodall is celebrated for her groundbreaking research on chimpanzees and her unwavering commitment to environmental conservation.

I first became acquainted with Dr. Goodall’s work during a wildlife documentary that showcased her revolutionary approach to studying chimpanzees in their natural habitat. Her method of immersive observation and the empathy she displayed towards her subjects were truly captivating.

What I find most admirable about Dr. Goodall’s work is its multifaceted nature. Not only has she made significant contributions to our scientific understanding of primates, but she has also been a tireless advocate for environmental conservation and animal welfare. Her research challenged prevailing scientific notions about the differences between humans and animals, revolutionizing our understanding of the animal kingdom.

Moreover, Dr. Goodall’s work extends far beyond the realm of academic research. She has leveraged her platform to raise awareness about critical environmental issues and has spearheaded numerous initiatives aimed at protecting habitats and endangered species. The Jane Goodall Institute, which she founded, operates on a global scale to promote conservation, research, and education.

What truly sets Dr. Goodall apart, in my opinion, is her ability to inspire action across generations. Through her Roots & Shoots program, she has empowered young people worldwide to become involved in environmental and humanitarian causes. Her eloquence as a speaker and her ability to convey complex scientific concepts in an accessible manner have made her an influential voice in the global conversation about conservation and sustainability.

In conclusion, I admire Dr. Jane Goodall for her pioneering scientific work, her tireless advocacy for environmental causes, and her remarkable ability to inspire and mobilize people towards positive action. Her life’s work serves as a testament to the profound impact that dedication, empathy, and perseverance can have on the world.”

Follow-up Questions

The examiner might ask some follow-up questions after your long turn. Here are a few possibilities with sample answers:

1. How do you think public figures can use their influence responsibly?

Sample Answer (Band 7-8):
“I believe public figures can use their influence responsibly by promoting positive values and supporting meaningful causes. They can leverage their platforms to raise awareness about important issues, such as climate change or social inequality. Additionally, they should lead by example in their personal lives and be transparent about their actions. It’s also crucial for them to fact-check information before sharing it with their followers to avoid spreading misinformation.”

2. Do you think it’s important for young people to have role models?

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“Absolutely, I believe having role models is crucial for young people’s development. Role models can provide inspiration and demonstrate valuable qualities such as perseverance, integrity, and compassion. They can showcase different paths to success and help young individuals set ambitious yet achievable goals. However, it’s equally important for young people to develop critical thinking skills and understand that role models are human and may have flaws. The key is to learn from their positive attributes while maintaining a balanced perspective.”

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

In Part 3, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some potential questions with sample answers:

1. How has social media changed the way we perceive public figures?

Sample Answer (Band 7-8):
“Social media has significantly altered our perception of public figures in several ways. Firstly, it has increased accessibility, allowing us to feel more connected to celebrities and leaders through their personal posts and interactions. Secondly, it has blurred the lines between public and private life, giving us glimpses into aspects of their lives that were previously hidden. However, this constant exposure can also lead to overexposure and scrutiny, sometimes resulting in public figures facing harsh criticism for minor mistakes. Additionally, social media has made it easier for public figures to directly communicate their thoughts and opinions, bypassing traditional media channels.”

2. What responsibilities do public figures have towards society?

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
“Public figures, by virtue of their influence and visibility, carry significant responsibilities towards society. Primarily, they have a duty to use their platform responsibly, ensuring that the information they share is accurate and beneficial. They should be mindful of their impact on public opinion and behavior, particularly when it comes to impressionable audiences like young people.

Moreover, public figures often have the power to shape societal norms and values. As such, they should strive to promote positive messages and exemplify ethical behavior. This includes supporting important causes, advocating for social justice, and raising awareness about critical issues facing society.

Another crucial responsibility is to maintain transparency and accountability in their actions. Given their influential position, public figures should be open to scrutiny and willing to acknowledge and learn from their mistakes. This helps in fostering trust with the public and setting a positive example of personal growth and integrity.

Lastly, public figures have a responsibility to use their resources and influence for the betterment of society. This could involve philanthropic efforts, mentoring, or actively participating in community development initiatives. By leveraging their status for social good, they can contribute significantly to addressing societal challenges and inspiring collective action.”

Describe a famous scientist you admire is another topic that might come up in your IELTS Speaking test. The strategies discussed in this article can also be applied to that topic.

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

To achieve a high score in your IELTS Speaking test, it’s essential to use a range of vocabulary and complex sentence structures. Here are some key terms and phrases that can help you express your ideas more effectively:

1. Influential /ˌɪnfluˈenʃəl/ (adjective): Having great influence on someone or something.
   Example: “Malala Yousafzai has become an influential voice in the fight for girls’ education.”

2. Advocate /ˈædvəkeɪt/ (verb): To publicly support or recommend a particular cause or policy.
   Example: “Dr. Jane Goodall continues to advocate for environmental conservation well into her 80s.”

3. Groundbreaking /ˈɡraʊndbreɪkɪŋ/ (adjective): Innovative; pioneering.
   Example: “Marie Curie’s groundbreaking research on radioactivity earned her two Nobel Prizes.”

4. Resilience /rɪˈzɪliəns/ (noun): The capacity to recover quickly from difficulties; toughness.
   Example: “Nelson Mandela’s resilience during his 27 years in prison inspired millions around the world.”

5. Leverage /ˈlevərɪdʒ/ (verb): Use (something) to maximum advantage.
   Example: “Many celebrities leverage their fame to raise awareness for charitable causes.”

6. Empathy /ˈempəθi/ (noun): The ability to understand and share the feelings of another.
   Example: “Great leaders often demonstrate empathy towards those they serve.”

7. Integrity /ɪnˈteɡrəti/ (noun): The quality of being honest and having strong moral principles.
   Example: “Despite facing criticism, she maintained her integrity and stood by her beliefs.”

Describe a time you met someone famous is another potential topic where you can apply these vocabulary words and phrases.

Examiner’s Advice

As an IELTS examiner, I would recommend the following strategies to improve your performance in the Speaking test:

1. Practice regularly: Engage in English conversations daily, even if it’s just talking to yourself about various topics.

2. Expand your vocabulary: Learn new words and phrases related to describing people, their qualities, and their achievements.

3. Stay informed: Keep up with current events and be aware of influential figures in various fields.

4. Use examples: Support your opinions with specific examples to make your answers more convincing and detailed.

5. Work on fluency: Focus on speaking smoothly and confidently, even if you make minor mistakes.

6. Develop your ideas: Don’t just give short answers. Elaborate on your points and explain your reasoning.

7. Listen carefully: Make sure you understand the questions fully before answering.

Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is not just about knowing the language, but also about expressing your ideas clearly and confidently. Describe a person who inspires you is another topic where these strategies can be effectively applied.

By following these tips and practicing regularly, you’ll be well-prepared to discuss public figures you admire and other related topics in your IELTS Speaking test. Good luck with your preparation!