The Speaking part of the IELTS exam is designed to assess your spoken English in real-life scenarios. IELTS Speaking Examiners evaluate your performance based on Fluency and Coherence, Lexical Resource, Grammatical Range and Accuracy, and Pronunciation. One common topic that may appear in the exam is describing a time when you were influenced by a public figure. This topic is not only prevalent but also broad enough to allow you to exhibit a range of vocabulary and structures.

In this article, we will explore how to answer this question effectively to achieve a high band score, with sample answers, analysis, and additional tips.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

Common Questions

1. Can you tell me about a public figure you admire?
2. Who is your favorite public figure and why?
3. Have you ever been inspired by a public figure?

Sample Answer for Part 1

Question: Can you tell me about a public figure you admire?

Sample Answer: Certainly. One public figure that I truly admire is Malala Yousafzai. She is a Pakistani education activist who, despite facing life-threatening adversity, has continued to advocate for girls’ education worldwide. Her resilience and unwavering dedication to her cause inspire me tremendously.

Analysis: This response uses specific details and demonstrates an ability to communicate admiration clearly. It also provides personal reasons, enhancing fluency and coherence.

Part 2: Long Turn

Cue Card

Describe A Time When You Were Influenced By A Public Figure. You should say:

• Who the public figure was
• When and where it happened
• How the public figure influenced you
• Explain why this influence was significant to you

Sample Answer for Part 2

Sample Answer: A public figure who has profoundly influenced my life is Greta Thunberg, the young environmental activist. I first heard about her in 2018 when she started her school strike for climate outside the Swedish Parliament. Her dedication to raising awareness about climate change and her fearlessness in addressing world leaders struck a chord with me. I began to follow her speeches and activism more closely, and I felt inspired to adopt a more sustainable lifestyle. I started recycling more diligently, reducing my carbon footprint, and even joined a local environmental club to spread awareness in my community. Her influence is significant to me because she showed that age is not a barrier to effecting change and that every individual’s efforts, no matter how small, can contribute to a larger cause.

Analysis: This answer is comprehensive and provides specific details, covering all the bullet points on the cue card. Important phrases such as “profoundly influenced,” “fearlessness in addressing world leaders,” and “adopt a more sustainable lifestyle” are highlighted to demonstrate a wide range of vocabulary and grammatical structures.

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

Examiner Questions and Suggested Responses

1. Why do you think people are influenced by public figures?

   Sample Response: People are often influenced by public figures because they serve as role models, embodying ideals and values that resonate with the public. For instance, a public figure like Nelson Mandela not only championed the fight against apartheid but also symbolized resilience and forgiveness, virtues that people look up to.

   Analysis: This answer addresses the broader question effectively and uses specific examples to back up points, which is crucial for a high-level response.

2. Do you think it’s important for public figures to act as role models?

   Sample Response: Absolutely, I believe it is essential for public figures to act as role models because they have a significant impact on the public, especially younger generations. When public figures demonstrate positive behavior, they set a benchmark that can inspire others to act similarly. Conversely, when they exhibit negative behavior, it can lead to detrimental societal effects.

   Analysis: This response uses clear arguments and supports them with logical reasoning. The phrase “set a benchmark” is sophisticated vocabulary that can impress the examiner.

Vocabulary and Structures to Achieve a High Band Score

Key Vocabulary and Phrases

1. Influence (verb, noun) /ˈɪn.flu.əns/: The capacity to have an effect on the character, development, or behavior of someone or something.

   • Example: Greta Thunberg has had a significant influence on global climate change initiatives.

2. Resilience (noun) /rɪˈzɪl.i.əns/: The ability to recover quickly from difficulties.

   • Example: Malala’s resilience in the face of adversity is truly inspiring.

3. Advocate (verb, noun) /ˈæd.və.keɪt/: To support or recommend a particular cause or policy.

   • Example: She has been a passionate advocate for education reform.

4. Dedication (noun) /ˌded.ɪˈkeɪ.ʃən/: The quality of being dedicated or committed to a task or purpose.

   • Example: His dedication to humanitarian causes has won him worldwide admiration.

Example Sentences

1. The influence of Malala Yousafzai’s activism on global education policy has been remarkable.
2. His resilience demonstrated a profound strength that inspired many.
3. She advocates for gender equality with such passion and dedication.

Examiner’s Advice for High Scores

1. Practice Regularly: Consistency is key. Regular practice helps build confidence and fluency.
2. Use a Range of Vocabulary: Show off your lexical resource by using varied and sophisticated vocabulary.
3. Stay on Topic: Ensure your answers are relevant and cover all bullet points provided.
4. Expand Your Answers: Where a simple answer would suffice, try to provide additional details and reasons to enrich your response.
5. Be Persuasive and Insightful: Express your opinions clearly and back them with logical arguments and examples.

Greta Thunberg addressing the United Nations

By following these guidelines and practicing with the provided examples, you will be well-prepared to discuss a time when you were influenced by a public figure, helping you achieve a high band score in the IELTS Speaking test.