The topic “describe an older person whom you admire” is a common theme in IELTS Speaking tests. It has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to remain relevant in future tests. This topic allows candidates to showcase their ability to describe people, express admiration, and discuss personal relationships – all crucial skills for achieving a high score in the IELTS Speaking section.
Describe a traditional dish from your country is another popular IELTS Speaking topic that requires similar descriptive skills. Both topics allow candidates to demonstrate their ability to provide detailed descriptions and personal insights.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask you some general questions about older people or admiration. Here’s a sample question with a suggested answer:
Q: Do you often spend time with older people?
A: Yes, I do. I’m quite fortunate to have my grandparents living nearby, so I make it a point to visit them regularly, usually every weekend. I find their company not only enjoyable but also incredibly enriching. They have a wealth of life experiences to share, and I always leave our conversations feeling like I’ve learned something valuable.
Part 2: Long Turn
Cue Card
Describe an older person whom you admire.
You should say:
- Who this person is
- How you know this person
- What qualities this person has
- And explain why you admire this person
Band 6-7 Sample Answer:
The older person I admire is my grandfather. I’ve known him my whole life, as we’ve always lived in the same city. He’s in his late 70s now, but he’s still very active and involved in the community.
My grandfather has many great qualities. He’s very kind and always willing to help others. He volunteers at a local charity every week, which I think is really admirable. He’s also quite wise and patient. Whenever I have a problem, I know I can talk to him, and he’ll listen without judging.
I admire my grandfather because of his positive attitude towards life. Despite facing many challenges, including health issues, he always stays optimistic. He often tells me that every problem has a solution if we approach it with the right mindset. His resilience and cheerful outlook inspire me to face my own difficulties with more courage.
Another reason I admire him is his commitment to lifelong learning. Even at his age, he’s always trying to learn new things. Last year, he started taking computer classes, which I found really impressive. His enthusiasm for learning reminds me that it’s never too late to acquire new skills.
In conclusion, my grandfather’s kindness, wisdom, positive attitude, and love for learning are the main reasons why I admire him so much. He’s a role model not just for me, but for many people in our family and community.
Band 8-9 Sample Answer:
The individual I hold in high esteem is my former university professor, Dr. Elizabeth Thompson. I had the privilege of studying under her guidance during my final year of undergraduate studies, and our professional relationship has since evolved into a mentorship that I deeply value.
Dr. Thompson, now in her mid-60s, possesses an exceptional combination of qualities that make her truly admirable. Her intellectual prowess is immediately apparent, with a razor-sharp mind that can dissect complex theories and present them in accessible ways. However, it’s her unwavering commitment to fostering critical thinking in her students that sets her apart. She consistently challenges us to question assumptions and approach problems from multiple perspectives, a skill that has proven invaluable in both my academic and professional life.
What I find particularly inspiring about Dr. Thompson is her tireless dedication to her field. Despite having achieved significant recognition in academia, including numerous publications and awards, she remains humble and perpetually curious. She often speaks about the importance of being a “lifelong learner,” and she embodies this principle wholeheartedly. For instance, at an age when many might consider slowing down, she recently embarked on learning a new programming language to enhance her research capabilities.
Moreover, Dr. Thompson’s impact extends far beyond the classroom. She’s a vocal advocate for gender equality in STEM fields and has established mentorship programs to support young women in science. Her commitment to creating a more inclusive scientific community is both admirable and inspiring.
What I admire most about Dr. Thompson is her ability to balance her professional achievements with genuine warmth and empathy. She has an remarkable talent for making each student feel valued and heard, always finding time to offer guidance or simply lend an ear. This unique combination of intellectual rigor and emotional intelligence is something I strive to emulate in my own career.
In essence, Dr. Thompson represents the epitome of what I aspire to become – a lifelong learner, a dedicated professional, and a compassionate mentor. Her influence has been transformative, shaping not just my academic journey but also my personal growth and professional aspirations.
Follow-up Questions
Q: What challenges do you think older people face in today’s society?
A (Band 6-7): I think older people face several challenges in today’s society. One major issue is loneliness, especially if their families live far away. They might also struggle with using new technology, which can make daily tasks difficult. Health problems are another big challenge, as well as the high cost of healthcare.
A (Band 8-9): The challenges faced by older individuals in contemporary society are multifaceted and often interconnected. Perhaps the most pervasive issue is social isolation, exacerbated by changing family structures and increased geographic mobility. This isolation can have serious repercussions on mental health, potentially leading to depression and cognitive decline. Additionally, the rapid pace of technological advancement often leaves older generations feeling left behind, creating barriers to accessing essential services and maintaining social connections. Financial insecurity is another significant concern, particularly in countries with inadequate pension systems or rising costs of living. This economic strain can be compounded by escalating healthcare expenses, as many older adults grapple with chronic health conditions. Moreover, ageism remains a persistent problem, manifesting in workplace discrimination and societal attitudes that can undermine the dignity and self-worth of older individuals. Addressing these challenges requires a holistic approach, encompassing policy changes, community support systems, and a shift in societal perceptions of aging.
Q: How can younger generations benefit from interacting with older people?
A (Band 6-7): Younger generations can learn a lot from older people. They have more life experience and can share valuable advice about work, relationships, and life in general. Older people can also teach young people about history and traditions, which helps keep cultural heritage alive. Interacting with older people can also help young people develop patience and respect for others.
A (Band 8-9): The intergenerational exchange between younger and older individuals can yield profound benefits for both parties. For the younger generation, these interactions offer a unique window into living history, providing context and perspective that textbooks alone cannot convey. Older individuals often possess a wealth of practical wisdom, honed through decades of experience, which can prove invaluable in navigating life’s complexities. This knowledge transfer can span various domains, from career insights to relationship advice, offering younger people a broader perspective on long-term decision-making. Moreover, regular interaction with older generations can foster empathy and combat ageism, promoting a more inclusive society. It can also enhance emotional intelligence, as younger individuals learn to communicate effectively across generational divides. Additionally, these relationships often instill a deeper appreciation for resilience and adaptability, as younger people witness firsthand how older generations have navigated significant historical and personal challenges. Ultimately, these intergenerational connections can create a richer, more cohesive social fabric, bridging cultural gaps and preserving invaluable cultural heritage.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Q: Do you think society values older people as much as it should?
A (Band 6-7): I don’t think society always values older people as much as it should. Sometimes, older people are seen as less important or less capable, especially in the workplace. This is unfair because they have a lot of experience and knowledge to share. I believe we should do more to include older people in society and show them respect.
A (Band 8-9): The extent to which society values its older members is a complex and often contentious issue. In many contemporary societies, there’s an observable disconnect between the lip service paid to respecting elders and the actual treatment they receive. This discrepancy manifests in various ways, from workplace age discrimination to the underrepresentation of older voices in media and public discourse. However, it’s crucial to note that this is not universal across all cultures. Some societies, particularly in East Asia, still maintain strong traditions of filial piety and elder respect.
In Western contexts, the rapid pace of technological and social change has sometimes led to a devaluation of the wisdom and experience that older generations possess. This is particularly ironic given that increased longevity means that the ‘older’ demographic now encompasses a vast range of ages and experiences. There’s a growing recognition that this demographic shift necessitates a reevaluation of how we perceive and integrate older individuals into society.
Ultimately, truly valuing older people requires more than just acknowledgment of their past contributions. It involves actively seeking their ongoing input, creating inclusive spaces and policies, and recognizing the diversity within this demographic. A society that fully values its older members is one that sees them not as a separate group to be managed, but as an integral part of the community with valuable perspectives to offer on contemporary issues.
Q: How has the role of older people in society changed over the past few decades?
A (Band 6-7): The role of older people in society has changed quite a bit over the past few decades. In the past, older people often lived with their families and helped take care of grandchildren. Now, many older people live independently and continue working past retirement age. They’re also more active in their communities, volunteering and participating in social activities. However, I think they sometimes feel less respected or valued than in the past.
A (Band 8-9): The role of older individuals in society has undergone a significant transformation in recent decades, shaped by demographic shifts, technological advancements, and changing social norms. Perhaps the most notable change is the extension of active life well into what was traditionally considered ‘old age’. Many individuals now continue their careers well past the conventional retirement age, either out of necessity or choice, contributing their expertise to the workforce for longer periods. This shift has challenged stereotypes about the capabilities and relevance of older workers.
Simultaneously, there’s been a marked change in family dynamics. The traditional model of multi-generational households has become less common in many societies, particularly in the West. This has led to both increased independence for older individuals and, in some cases, greater social isolation. However, it has also spurred the growth of active retirement communities and social programs aimed at keeping older adults engaged and connected.
Another significant shift is in the realm of technology adoption. While there’s still a digital divide, many older adults are now active users of social media, online learning platforms, and other digital tools, allowing them to maintain connections and pursue new interests in ways that were not possible for previous generations.
The political influence of older demographics has also grown, reflecting their increasing proportion of the population. This has led to greater attention to issues like healthcare reform and pension sustainability, but has also sparked intergenerational debates about resource allocation and policy priorities.
In essence, the role of older people in society has evolved from one of retirement and withdrawal to one of continued engagement and contribution, albeit with new challenges and opportunities. This shift necessitates ongoing societal adjustments to fully leverage the potential of this growing demographic.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases
Admire /ədˈmaɪər/ (verb): to respect and approve of someone or their behavior.
Example: “I deeply admire my grandfather’s resilience in the face of adversity.”Wisdom /ˈwɪzdəm/ (noun): the quality of having experience, knowledge, and good judgment.
Example: “Her wisdom, accumulated over decades, is invaluable to our team.”Resilience /rɪˈzɪliəns/ (noun): the ability to recover quickly from difficulties.
Example: “The resilience shown by older generations during challenging times is truly inspiring.”Mentor /ˈmentɔːr/ (noun): an experienced and trusted adviser.
Example: “My professor became a mentor to me, guiding my career choices long after graduation.”Lifelong learning /ˌlaɪflɒŋ ˈlɜːnɪŋ/ (noun phrase): the ongoing, voluntary, and self-motivated pursuit of knowledge.
Example: “My grandmother’s commitment to lifelong learning is evident in her constant pursuit of new hobbies and skills.”Intergenerational /ˌɪntəˌdʒenəˈreɪʃənl/ (adjective): relating to or affecting several generations.
Example: “Intergenerational programs in our community have fostered understanding between young and old.”Ageism /ˈeɪdʒɪzəm/ (noun): prejudice or discrimination on the grounds of a person’s age.
Example: “We need to combat ageism in the workplace to benefit from the expertise of older employees.”Perspective /pəˈspektɪv/ (noun): a particular attitude towards or way of regarding something.
Example: “Talking to my great-aunt gave me a new perspective on our family history.”
Older person admiration IELTS speaking
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test when describing an older person you admire:
- Use a variety of descriptive language and advanced vocabulary to portray the person vividly.
- Provide specific examples to support your points, demonstrating the person’s admirable qualities through their actions or experiences.
- Express your thoughts and feelings clearly, showing genuine admiration and explaining why you hold this person in high regard.
- Use a range of grammatical structures, including complex sentences, to articulate your ideas fluently.
- Maintain good pronunciation and intonation throughout your response.
- Address all parts of the question, ensuring a well-rounded and comprehensive answer.
- Practice speaking about different people you admire to improve your ability to discuss this topic fluently and naturally.
Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is not just about what you say, but how you say it. Confidence, fluency, and the ability to express complex ideas clearly are all crucial factors in achieving a high score.
Describe a change in your life that you embraced is another topic that allows you to demonstrate similar language skills and personal reflection. Practicing a variety of topics will help you become more versatile in your IELTS Speaking responses.