The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about personal experiences and emotions. One common topic that candidates may encounter is describing a time when they felt inspired by someone. This question allows examiners to assess your ability to express yourself fluently, use appropriate vocabulary, and structure your thoughts coherently. Let’s explore how to effectively answer this question and maximize your score.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In Part 1 of the Speaking test, the examiner may ask you some general questions related to inspiration. Here are some possible questions and sample answers:

1. Do you often feel inspired by others?

   Sample answer (Band 7-8):
   “Yes, I’d say I’m quite easily inspired by people around me. Whether it’s a colleague’s innovative approach to problem-solving or a friend’s dedication to their craft, I often find myself motivated by the achievements and attitudes of others. It’s one of the reasons I enjoy meeting new people and hearing their stories.”

2. Who inspires you the most in your life?

   Sample answer (Band 8-9):
   “Without a doubt, my grandmother has been the most influential and inspiring figure in my life. Her resilience in the face of adversity, her unwavering commitment to education, and her boundless compassion for others have profoundly shaped my values and aspirations. She’s a constant reminder of the power of perseverance and kindness.”

Part 2: Long Turn

In Part 2, you may receive a cue card related to describing a time when you felt inspired by someone. Here’s a sample cue card:

Describe A Time When You Felt Inspired By Someone

You should say:
- Who this person was
- When and where you met them
- What they did that inspired you
- How this inspiration affected you

Sample Answer (Band 6-7):

“I’d like to talk about a time when I felt inspired by my high school math teacher, Mr. Johnson. I met him when I was 15 years old, during my first year of high school. What really inspired me about Mr. Johnson was his passion for mathematics and his ability to make complex concepts easy to understand.

He had this unique way of teaching that made even the most challenging topics seem interesting and relevant to our daily lives. For example, he once used a real-world scenario of planning a party budget to explain linear equations, which really struck a chord with me.

His enthusiasm was contagious, and it completely changed my perspective on math. Before his class, I used to dread math lessons, but Mr. Johnson’s approach made me look forward to them. This inspiration had a significant impact on my academic journey. I started putting more effort into my math studies and even considered pursuing a career in a math-related field.

Overall, Mr. Johnson’s inspiration ignited a passion for learning that extended beyond just mathematics. He taught me the importance of finding joy in the subjects we study and how a great teacher can make all the difference in a student’s life.”

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):

“I’d like to recount an experience that left an indelible mark on my life – a time when I felt profoundly inspired by a renowned environmental activist, Dr. Jane Goodall. I had the privilege of attending one of her lectures at a conservation conference in London three years ago.

What struck me most about Dr. Goodall was not just her groundbreaking work with chimpanzees, but her unwavering dedication to environmental conservation and her ability to inspire action in others. Her lecture was a masterful blend of scientific insight and heartfelt storytelling. She spoke with such passion and conviction about the interconnectedness of all living things and our responsibility to protect the planet.

One particular anecdote she shared about a rescued chimpanzee’s journey to recovery resonated deeply with me. It beautifully illustrated the resilience of nature and the impact that one individual’s compassion can have on the world.

Dr. Goodall’s words and presence ignited a spark within me. Her inspiration propelled me to reassess my own impact on the environment and catalyzed a significant shift in my lifestyle choices. I began volunteering at local conservation projects, adopted more sustainable habits, and even redirected my career path towards environmental science.

The ripple effect of her inspiration extended far beyond that single encounter. It fundamentally altered my worldview and instilled in me a sense of purpose and responsibility towards our planet. Dr. Goodall’s example showed me that with passion, perseverance, and a genuine love for our work, we can indeed make a meaningful difference in the world.”

Follow-up Questions:

1. How has this inspiration changed your daily life?

   Sample answer (Band 8-9):
   “Dr. Goodall’s inspiration has permeated every aspect of my daily life. I’ve become much more mindful of my ecological footprint, making conscious choices to reduce waste, conserve energy, and support sustainable products. Moreover, I’ve cultivated a deeper appreciation for nature, often taking time to observe and connect with the environment around me. This shift in perspective has not only made me more environmentally responsible but has also enhanced my overall well-being and sense of purpose.”

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

   Sample answer (Band 7-8):
   “Absolutely, I believe role models play a crucial role in personal development. They provide us with tangible examples of success and integrity, offering a blueprint for how to navigate challenges and achieve our goals. Role models can inspire us to push our boundaries, challenge our assumptions, and strive for excellence. However, it’s important to remember that role models are human too, with their own flaws and mistakes. The key is to learn from their positive attributes while maintaining our own individuality and critical thinking.”

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

In Part 3, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic of inspiration. Here are some possible questions and sample answers:

1. How do you think social media influencers impact young people’s aspirations?

   Sample answer (Band 8-9):
   “Social media influencers wield significant influence over young people’s aspirations, often shaping their perceptions of success and lifestyle goals. On one hand, influencers can serve as powerful motivators, showcasing diverse career paths and inspiring creativity. They can raise awareness about important social issues and encourage civic engagement among youth.

   However, there’s also a darker side to this influence. The curated, often unrealistic portrayals of life on social media can lead to unrealistic expectations and feelings of inadequacy among young followers. Moreover, the emphasis on materialism and external validation prevalent in influencer culture may skew young people’s values and priorities.

   It’s crucial to foster critical thinking skills in young people, enabling them to discern authentic inspiration from superficial content. Education about media literacy and the importance of diverse role models beyond the digital sphere is essential in mitigating the potentially negative impacts of influencer culture while harnessing its positive aspects.”

2. In what ways can inspiration from others contribute to societal progress?

   Sample answer (Band 7-8):
   “Inspiration from others can be a powerful catalyst for societal progress in numerous ways. Firstly, when people are inspired by innovators and thought leaders, it can spark creativity and drive innovation across various fields, from technology to social reform. This collective inspiration can lead to breakthroughs that benefit society as a whole.

   Secondly, inspiration often motivates people to take action. When individuals see others making a positive impact, it can encourage them to contribute to their communities or engage in social causes. This ripple effect of inspiration can lead to increased volunteerism, civic engagement, and social responsibility.

   Lastly, shared inspiration can foster a sense of unity and common purpose within society. When people rally around inspired ideas or figures, it can break down barriers and bring diverse groups together, promoting social cohesion and collective progress.

   However, it’s important to note that inspiration alone is not enough. It needs to be coupled with sustained effort, critical thinking, and practical action to truly drive societal change.”

Societal progress through inspiration

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test, it’s crucial to use a range of sophisticated vocabulary and expressions. Here are some key terms and phrases that can elevate your responses:

1. Profound impact /prəˈfaʊnd ˈɪmpækt/ (adjective + noun): A very significant or deep effect.
   Example: “Her words had a profound impact on my career choices.”

2. Catalyze /ˈkætəlaɪz/ (verb): To cause or accelerate change or action.
   Example: “The experience catalyzed a shift in my perspective on environmental issues.”

3. Indelible mark /ɪnˈdelɪbl mɑːrk/ (adjective + noun): A lasting impression or effect.
   Example: “The mentor’s guidance left an indelible mark on my professional development.”

4. Paradigm shift /ˈpærədaɪm ʃɪft/ (noun): A fundamental change in approach or underlying assumptions.
   Example: “Meeting her caused a paradigm shift in how I viewed success.”

5. Galvanize /ˈɡælvənaɪz/ (verb): To shock or excite someone into taking action.
   Example: “His speech galvanized the audience into supporting the cause.”

6. Epiphany /ɪˈpɪfəni/ (noun): A moment of sudden and great revelation or realization.
   Example: “Listening to her story was an epiphany that changed my career path.”

Remember to use these terms naturally and in the appropriate context to showcase your language proficiency effectively.

Examiner’s Advice

To excel in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when describing inspirational experiences:

1. Practice storytelling: Develop your ability to narrate experiences coherently and engagingly.
2. Expand your vocabulary: Focus on learning and using sophisticated words and phrases related to inspiration and personal growth.
3. Develop your ideas: Don’t just state facts; explain your thoughts and feelings in depth.
4. Use a variety of grammatical structures: Incorporate complex sentences and different tenses to demonstrate your language skills.
5. Speak naturally: While using advanced vocabulary is important, ensure your speech remains fluent and natural.
6. Reflect on personal experiences: Prepare by thinking about various inspirational moments in your life before the test.

By following these tips and utilizing the sample answers and vocabulary provided, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle questions about inspiration in your IELTS Speaking test. Remember, authenticity and fluency are key to a high score.

For more IELTS Speaking practice, you might find it helpful to describe a member of a team you admire or describe a time when you received advice that changed your perspective. These topics can further enhance your ability to discuss influential people and transformative experiences.