The topic “describe a teacher who has influenced you” is a common theme in IELTS Speaking tests. It has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to continue being a popular subject in future tests. This topic allows candidates to showcase their ability to discuss personal experiences, express gratitude, and reflect on the impact of education in their lives.
Describe a person who has influenced your personal development is a closely related topic that often comes up in IELTS Speaking tests. Let’s explore how to effectively answer questions about an influential teacher across all parts of the IELTS Speaking exam.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about teachers and education. Here are some common questions and sample answers:
- Do you have a favorite teacher?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“Absolutely. My high school English teacher, Mrs. Johnson, left an indelible impression on me. Her passion for literature and innovative teaching methods sparked my interest in the English language and inspired me to pursue a career in writing.”
- What qualities do you think make a good teacher?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“In my opinion, the hallmarks of an exceptional teacher include profound subject knowledge, the ability to convey complex ideas clearly, and a genuine interest in students’ progress. Moreover, patience, empathy, and the skill to foster a positive learning environment are crucial attributes that can significantly impact a student’s educational journey.”
Part 2: Long Turn
Cue Card:
Describe a teacher who has influenced you
You should say:
- Who this teacher is
- What subject they taught
- How they taught you
- And explain why this teacher influenced you
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to talk about Mr. Rodriguez, my high school physics teacher, who had a profound impact on my academic journey and personal growth.
Mr. Rodriguez taught physics, a subject that I initially found daunting and abstract. However, his teaching approach revolutionized my perception of the subject. He had an uncanny ability to break down complex concepts into digestible pieces, often using real-world analogies that made the theories come alive.
What set Mr. Rodriguez apart was his innovative teaching methods. Instead of relying solely on textbooks, he incorporated hands-on experiments and interactive demonstrations into every lesson. I vividly remember the day he explained Newton’s laws of motion using a skateboard and a series of pulleys – it was a eureka moment for me.
Mr. Rodriguez influenced me profoundly for several reasons. Firstly, he ignited my passion for science, showing me how physics underpins many aspects of our daily lives. His enthusiasm was contagious, and I found myself eagerly anticipating each class.
Secondly, he taught me the value of perseverance. Whenever I struggled with a concept, he would patiently guide me through it, encouraging me to approach problems from different angles. This lesson in resilience has served me well beyond the classroom.
Lastly, Mr. Rodriguez believed in my potential even when I doubted myself. His unwavering support boosted my confidence and motivated me to push my boundaries. It was largely due to his encouragement that I decided to pursue a degree in engineering.
In conclusion, Mr. Rodriguez wasn’t just a teacher; he was a mentor and inspiration. His impact extends far beyond the physics concepts he taught – he shaped my approach to learning and instilled in me a lifelong curiosity about the world around us.”
Possible follow-up questions:
- How has this teacher’s influence affected your career choices?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“Mr. Rodriguez’s influence has been instrumental in shaping my career path. His captivating teaching style and ability to demystify complex concepts inspired me to pursue a degree in mechanical engineering. Moreover, his emphasis on practical applications of theoretical knowledge has guided my approach in my current role as a design engineer, where I strive to bridge the gap between abstract ideas and tangible solutions.”
- Do you think teachers today have the same level of influence on students?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“While teaching methods and the educational landscape have evolved, I believe teachers today still have the potential to profoundly influence their students. However, the nature of this influence may have shifted. With the advent of technology and access to information, teachers now play a crucial role in guiding students to critically evaluate and apply knowledge, rather than being the sole source of information. Their influence lies more in inspiring curiosity, fostering critical thinking, and nurturing essential life skills.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
- Examiner: How has the role of teachers changed in recent years?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“The role of teachers has undergone a significant transformation in recent years, largely due to technological advancements and changing educational paradigms. Traditionally, teachers were primarily seen as knowledge dispensers, but now they’ve evolved into facilitators of learning.
In the digital age, where information is readily accessible, teachers are no longer the sole source of knowledge. Instead, their role has shifted towards guiding students in critically analyzing and applying information. They now focus more on developing students’ critical thinking skills, fostering creativity, and nurturing emotional intelligence.
Moreover, teachers today are expected to be tech-savvy and integrate digital tools into their teaching methods. This shift has led to more interactive and personalized learning experiences. Teachers are also increasingly taking on the role of mentors, providing individualized support and helping students navigate the complexities of the modern world.
Another crucial aspect is the growing emphasis on inclusive education. Teachers now play a vital role in creating inclusive classrooms that cater to diverse learning needs and promote cultural sensitivity.
In essence, while the fundamental goal of education remains unchanged, the methods and focus have evolved to meet the demands of the 21st century, with teachers at the forefront of this educational revolution.”
- Examiner: Do you think the traditional classroom setting will become obsolete in the future?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“While it’s tempting to envision a future where traditional classrooms are completely replaced by virtual learning environments, I believe the reality will be more nuanced. The traditional classroom setting is likely to evolve rather than become entirely obsolete.
Blended learning models, which combine face-to-face instruction with online components, are gaining popularity. These models leverage the strengths of both approaches – the personal interaction and immediate feedback of traditional classrooms, along with the flexibility and resource-rich environment of online learning.
That said, certain aspects of the traditional classroom are irreplaceable. The social interaction, peer-to-peer learning, and development of interpersonal skills that occur in a physical classroom are crucial for students’ holistic development. Moreover, hands-on subjects like laboratory sciences or arts often require physical presence and tactile experiences.
However, we can expect significant modifications to the traditional classroom setup. Flexible seating arrangements, integration of technology, and spaces designed for collaborative work are already becoming more common. The future classroom might be a high-tech hub that facilitates both in-person and remote participation, catering to diverse learning styles and needs.
In conclusion, while the traditional classroom will likely undergo substantial changes, its core elements will remain relevant, adapting to incorporate new technologies and pedagogical approaches rather than becoming obsolete.”
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
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Indelible impression (adj. + n.) – A lasting effect or influence
Pronunciation: /ɪnˈdelɪbl ɪmˈpreʃn/
Example: “Her kindness left an indelible impression on all her students.” -
To spark interest (v. + n.) – To ignite curiosity or enthusiasm
Pronunciation: /spɑːrk ˈɪntrəst/
Example: “His dynamic lectures sparked my interest in quantum physics.” -
Hallmarks (n.) – Distinguishing characteristics or features
Pronunciation: /ˈhɔːlmɑːks/
Example: “Patience and empathy are hallmarks of an excellent teacher.” -
To convey complex ideas (v. + adj. + n.) – To communicate difficult concepts effectively
Pronunciation: /kənˈveɪ ˈkɒmpleks aɪˈdɪəz/
Example: “She has a remarkable ability to convey complex ideas in simple terms.” -
To foster a positive environment (v. + adj. + n.) – To encourage or promote a good atmosphere
Pronunciation: /ˈfɒstər ə ˈpɒzətɪv ɪnˈvaɪrənmənt/
Example: “The teacher worked hard to foster a positive environment in the classroom.”
Describe a teacher from the past whom you remember is another common IELTS Speaking topic that allows you to utilize these vocabulary items and phrases effectively.
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test when describing an influential teacher:
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Use a range of vocabulary: Incorporate advanced words and phrases related to education and personal development.
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Provide specific examples: Back up your statements with concrete instances that illustrate the teacher’s influence.
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Show reflection: Demonstrate how this teacher’s influence has impacted your life beyond the classroom.
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Maintain fluency: Practice speaking about this topic to ensure smooth delivery without long pauses.
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Use a variety of grammatical structures: Incorporate complex sentences and different tenses to showcase your language proficiency.
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Stay relevant: Ensure all your points directly address the question and stay on topic.
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Expand on your answers: Especially in Part 3, provide detailed responses that show depth of thought and analysis.
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Speaking is not just about what you say, but how you say it. Regular practice and exposure to English will help you build confidence and improve your performance.
Describe a person who has taught you valuable life lessons is another topic where you can apply these strategies, as influential teachers often impart important life lessons beyond their subject matter.
By following these guidelines and incorporating the provided vocabulary and structures, you’ll be well-equipped to deliver a compelling and high-scoring response when asked to describe a teacher who has influenced you in your IELTS Speaking test.