The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about people we admire, including sportspersons. This topic allows candidates to showcase their vocabulary, fluency, and ability to express opinions. Let’s explore how to effectively answer questions about describing a sportsperson you admire, with sample responses for different band scores.
Describe a talented person you admire is a related topic that can help you prepare for this type of question. Now, let’s dive into the specific parts of the IELTS Speaking test and how to approach them when discussing a sportsperson you admire.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about sports and athletes. Here are some common questions and a sample answer:
- Do you play any sports?
- Who is your favorite athlete?
- How often do you watch sports on TV?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“Yes, I regularly engage in swimming and jogging. My favorite athlete is Usain Bolt, the Jamaican sprinter. I find his achievements truly inspiring. As for watching sports on TV, I tune in to major sporting events like the Olympics or World Cup, but I don’t watch sports on a daily basis.”
Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)
Here’s a sample cue card for this topic:
Describe A Sportsperson That You Admire
You should say:
- Who this person is
- What sport they play
- What achievements they have
- And explain why you admire them
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to talk about Serena Williams, a remarkable American tennis player who has left an indelible mark on the sport. She’s widely regarded as one of the greatest tennis players of all time, having dominated the women’s game for over two decades.
Serena’s achievements are truly awe-inspiring. She has won 23 Grand Slam singles titles, the most by any player in the Open Era. She’s also clinched 14 Grand Slam doubles titles alongside her sister Venus, and has won four Olympic gold medals. Her powerful playing style and mental fortitude have revolutionized women’s tennis.
What I admire most about Serena is her unwavering determination and resilience. She’s overcome numerous challenges, including health issues and racial discrimination, to reach the pinnacle of her sport. Her comeback after giving birth to her daughter was particularly inspiring, showing her incredible mental and physical strength.
Moreover, Serena has used her platform to advocate for important causes such as gender equality and racial justice. She’s been a role model for aspiring athletes, particularly young women and people of color, demonstrating that with hard work and perseverance, one can break barriers and achieve greatness.
In conclusion, Serena Williams is not just a phenomenal athlete, but also a trailblazer who has transcended her sport to become a global icon. Her combination of athletic excellence, mental toughness, and social activism makes her a sportsperson I greatly admire and respect.”
Serena Williams on tennis court
Follow-up questions:
- How has this sportsperson influenced others in their field?
- What qualities do you think make a great athlete?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“Serena has influenced countless athletes by breaking racial and gender barriers in tennis. Her success has inspired a new generation of diverse players to take up the sport. As for qualities that make a great athlete, I believe dedication, mental toughness, and the ability to perform under pressure are crucial. Physical prowess is important, but the mental aspect of sports often separates the good from the great.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In this section, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to sports and admiration. Here are some possible questions and sample answers:
Q: How do sports stars influence young people in society?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“Sports stars wield significant influence over young people in various ways. Firstly, they serve as role models, inspiring youth to pursue their dreams and adopt healthy lifestyles. Their dedication and work ethic can motivate young people to strive for excellence in their own pursuits, whether in sports or other fields.
Moreover, athletes often use their platform to raise awareness about social issues, which can shape the views of their young fans. For instance, when a popular athlete speaks out against discrimination or supports a charitable cause, it can prompt young people to engage with these important topics.
However, this influence comes with responsibility. Negative behavior from sports stars, such as unsportsmanlike conduct or off-field scandals, can also impact young fans adversely. Therefore, it’s crucial for athletes to be mindful of their actions and the messages they convey.
In essence, sports stars have the power to mold attitudes, promote positive values, and inspire achievement among young people, making their role in society far more significant than just their athletic performances.”
Describe your favorite sport and how it benefits you is another topic that can help you prepare for questions about the impact of sports on individuals and society.
Q: Do you think it’s important for countries to invest in sports and athletes? Why or why not?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“I believe it’s crucial for countries to invest in sports and athletes for several reasons. Firstly, sports promote public health by encouraging physical activity and fitness. This can lead to a healthier population and potentially reduce healthcare costs in the long run.
Secondly, sports have the power to unite people and foster national pride. When a country’s athletes perform well in international competitions, it can boost morale and create a sense of collective achievement.
Moreover, investing in sports can uncover talent that might otherwise go unnoticed. By providing facilities and training programs, countries can help talented individuals reach their full potential and possibly achieve international success.
However, it’s important to strike a balance. While sports investment is valuable, it shouldn’t come at the expense of other crucial areas like education or healthcare. A well-rounded approach to national development is key.”
Modern sports facilities
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test when describing a sportsperson you admire, consider using these advanced vocabulary items and phrases:
Trailblazer /ˈtreɪlbleɪzər/ (noun): A person who is the first to do something; an innovator.
Example: “Serena Williams is a trailblazer in women’s tennis.”Phenomenal /fəˈnɒmɪnl/ (adjective): Remarkable or exceptional, especially exceptionally good.
Example: “His phenomenal speed sets him apart from other athletes.”Resilience /rɪˈzɪliəns/ (noun): The capacity to recover quickly from difficulties; toughness.
Example: “Her resilience in the face of setbacks is truly admirable.”To transcend /trænˈsend/ (verb): To go beyond the range or limits of something.
Example: “This athlete has transcended their sport to become a global icon.”Mental fortitude /ˈmentl ˈfɔːtɪtjuːd/ (noun phrase): Strength of mind; the ability to face difficulty with courage.
Example: “Her mental fortitude allows her to perform well under intense pressure.”To advocate for /ˈædvəkeɪt fɔː/ (phrasal verb): To publicly support or recommend a particular cause or policy.
Example: “Many athletes use their platform to advocate for social justice.”
Describe a talented person you know well can provide additional practice in using advanced vocabulary to describe admirable qualities in individuals.
Examiner’s Advice
To excel in the IELTS Speaking test when describing a sportsperson you admire:
- Prepare diverse examples: Have 2-3 sportspersons from different sports in mind to discuss.
- Focus on specific details: Mention concrete achievements and personal qualities.
- Practice fluency: Work on speaking smoothly without long pauses.
- Expand your sports vocabulary: Learn sports-specific terms and idiomatic expressions.
- Develop your opinions: Be ready to discuss the broader impact of sports and athletes on society.
- Use a range of tenses: Incorporate past, present, and future tenses when appropriate.
Remember, the key to a high score is not just what you say, but how you say it. Aim for clear pronunciation, natural intonation, and a good balance between fluency and accuracy.
IELTS Speaking practice session
By following these guidelines and practicing regularly, you can improve your ability to describe a sportsperson you admire effectively in the IELTS Speaking test. Remember to tie your personal experiences and opinions into your responses to make them more authentic and engaging.
Describe a favorite game you played as a child is another topic that can help you practice describing activities and experiences, which can be useful when discussing sports and athletes.
