The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about personal experiences and encounters. One common topic that frequently appears is describing a time when you met someone you greatly admire. This question allows candidates to showcase their language skills while discussing a meaningful event in their lives. Let’s explore how to effectively answer this question and maximize your score in the IELTS Speaking test.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, the examiner may ask general questions related to people you admire or memorable encounters. Here’s an example question with a suggested answer:
Examiner: Do you often meet people you admire?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“Well, to be honest, I don’t often have the opportunity to meet people I truly admire in person. However, I do occasionally encounter individuals who inspire me in various ways, whether it’s through their work, achievements, or personal qualities. For instance, I recently attended a lecture by a renowned scientist in my field, and although it wasn’t a one-on-one meeting, I found the experience incredibly inspiring and memorable.”
Describe a famous historical figure you admire can be another topic related to admiration that may come up in the IELTS Speaking test. It’s essential to be prepared for various questions on this theme.
Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)
Here’s a sample cue card related to the topic:
Describe a time when you met someone you greatly admire.
You should say:
- Who this person is
- When and where you met them
- Why you admire this person
- How you felt about meeting themSample answer (Band 6-7):
“I’d like to talk about the time I met my favorite author, Jane Smith, at a book signing event last year. It took place at a local bookstore in my hometown.
I’ve always admired Jane Smith because of her incredible storytelling abilities and the way she tackles important social issues in her novels. Her books have had a profound impact on my life, helping me see the world from different perspectives.
When I finally got the chance to meet her in person, I was incredibly nervous but also excited. As I approached her table, my heart was racing, and I could barely find the right words to express how much her work meant to me. Despite my nervousness, she was incredibly kind and patient, taking the time to chat with me about her writing process and even offering some advice for aspiring writers like myself.
Meeting Jane Smith was truly a dream come true for me. I left the event feeling inspired and motivated to pursue my own writing goals. It was an experience I’ll never forget, and it reinforced my admiration for her not just as an author, but as a person as well.”
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to recount a truly momentous occasion when I had the privilege of meeting Dr. Maria Rodriguez, a pioneering neuroscientist whose groundbreaking research on Alzheimer’s disease has revolutionized our understanding of cognitive decline. This serendipitous encounter occurred during an international scientific conference in London last autumn.
Dr. Rodriguez has been a towering figure in the field of neuroscience for over two decades, and I’ve long admired her for her relentless pursuit of knowledge and her unwavering commitment to improving the lives of those affected by neurodegenerative disorders. Her work has not only advanced our scientific understanding but has also paved the way for potential new treatments, offering hope to millions worldwide.
When I unexpectedly found myself seated next to her at a conference luncheon, I was simultaneously awestruck and exhilarated. Despite my initial trepidation, Dr. Rodriguez’s approachable demeanor and genuine interest in my research quickly put me at ease. We engaged in a riveting discussion about the latest developments in neuroplasticity, and I was struck by her ability to articulate complex concepts with remarkable clarity.
Meeting Dr. Rodriguez was an utterly transformative experience. Her passion for science and her infectious enthusiasm reinvigorated my own commitment to research. Moreover, her words of encouragement and insightful advice about navigating the challenges of a scientific career have had a lasting impact on my professional trajectory. This encounter not only deepened my admiration for Dr. Rodriguez but also reaffirmed my conviction that scientific collaboration and mentorship are crucial for advancing our collective knowledge and making meaningful contributions to society.”
Follow-up questions:
- How has meeting this person influenced your life or career choices?
- Do you think it’s important for people to have role models or individuals they admire? Why or why not?
Sample answer (Band 8-9) for question 1:
“Meeting Dr. Rodriguez has had a profound impact on my career trajectory. Her sage advice about the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in neuroscience research has prompted me to broaden my academic horizons and seek out partnerships with experts in related fields such as computer science and bioengineering. This cross-pollination of ideas has already yielded some promising results in my current research project.
Moreover, Dr. Rodriguez’s emphasis on the translational aspects of scientific research has inspired me to consider how my work can have more immediate real-world applications. As a result, I’ve begun to actively engage with patient advocacy groups and healthcare professionals to ensure that my research addresses pressing clinical needs.
Perhaps most significantly, our encounter has bolstered my confidence as a young scientist. Dr. Rodriguez’s encouragement and belief in my potential have motivated me to pursue more ambitious research questions and to voice my ideas more assertively in academic settings. In essence, meeting her has not only shaped the direction of my research but has also catalyzed my growth as a scientific professional.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In Part 3, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some example questions and answers:
Examiner: Do you think it’s beneficial for young people to have role models? Why or why not?
Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“I believe having role models can be incredibly beneficial for young people. Role models can serve as sources of inspiration and motivation, showing young individuals what’s possible if they work hard and pursue their goals. They can also provide valuable guidance and life lessons, helping young people navigate challenges and make important decisions.
However, it’s crucial to approach role models with a balanced perspective. Young people should understand that their idols are human and have flaws. It’s important to admire specific qualities or achievements rather than blindly idolizing the entire person. This approach allows young people to learn from their role models while still developing their own unique identities and values.”
Examiner: In your opinion, has social media changed the way people interact with those they admire?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“Social media has undeniably transformed the dynamics between admirers and their idols. On one hand, it has democratized access to public figures, allowing for unprecedented levels of interaction. Fans can now directly engage with their role models through comments, likes, and direct messages, creating a sense of proximity and connection that was previously unimaginable.
However, this increased accessibility is a double-edged sword. While it can foster a stronger sense of community and allow for more authentic interactions, it can also lead to unrealistic expectations and an unhealthy obsession with celebrities’ personal lives. The curated nature of social media can present a skewed representation of reality, potentially setting unrealistic standards for admirers.
Moreover, the instantaneous nature of social media has amplified the impact of both positive and negative actions by public figures. A single tweet or post can rapidly shape public opinion, for better or worse. This has led to a more volatile relationship between public figures and their admirers, where admiration can quickly turn to criticism.
In essence, while social media has undoubtedly enhanced connectivity, it has also complicated the dynamics of admiration, requiring both public figures and their admirers to navigate this new landscape with greater awareness and responsibility.”
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test, it’s crucial to use a wide range of vocabulary and complex sentence structures. Here are some key terms and phrases that can help elevate your responses:
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Towering figure /ˈtaʊərɪŋ ˈfɪɡər/ (noun phrase): A person of great importance or influence in a particular field.
Example: Nelson Mandela was a towering figure in the fight against apartheid. -
Serendipitous /ˌserənˈdɪpɪtəs/ (adjective): Occurring or discovered by chance in a happy or beneficial way.
Example: Our meeting was a serendipitous event that changed the course of my career. -
Articulate /ɑːˈtɪkjuleɪt/ (verb): Express (an idea or feeling) fluently and coherently.
Example: She was able to articulate complex scientific concepts in a way that everyone could understand. -
Riveting /ˈrɪvɪtɪŋ/ (adjective): Completely engrossing; compelling.
Example: We had a riveting discussion about the future of artificial intelligence. -
Infectious enthusiasm /ɪnˈfekʃəs ɪnˈθjuːziæzəm/ (noun phrase): Excitement or interest that spreads easily to others.
Example: Her infectious enthusiasm for the project motivated the entire team.
Describe a person who has influenced your lifestyle is another topic where you can utilize these advanced vocabulary items to enhance your speaking performance.
Tips from an IELTS Examiner
As an experienced IELTS examiner, I recommend the following strategies to excel in the Speaking test:
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Practice regularly: Engage in daily English conversations and record yourself speaking to identify areas for improvement.
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Expand your vocabulary: Learn new words and phrases related to common IELTS topics and practice using them in context.
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Develop your ideas: Don’t just give short answers. Elaborate on your points and provide specific examples to support your statements.
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Use a variety of grammatical structures: Incorporate complex sentences, conditionals, and different tenses to showcase your language proficiency.
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Work on your pronunciation and fluency: Focus on clear articulation and natural speech patterns. Practice speaking at a steady pace without long pauses.
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Stay informed: Keep up with current events and global issues to have a broad range of topics to discuss confidently.
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Be authentic: While it’s important to use advanced language, make sure your responses reflect your genuine thoughts and experiences.
Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is not just about using impressive vocabulary, but also about communicating your ideas clearly and confidently. With consistent practice and the right strategies, you can significantly improve your performance and achieve the score you desire.
Describe a famous athlete you admire or describe a public figure you respect and admire are additional topics where you can apply these strategies to enhance your speaking skills and showcase your language abilities.