The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about people who have influenced or inspired us. One common topic is describing an older person you admire. This theme has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to remain relevant in future tests. Let’s explore how to effectively answer such questions and achieve a high score.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In this section, the examiner may ask general questions about people you admire. Here’s an example question with a suggested answer:
Q: Do you have any role models?
A: Absolutely. I believe having role models is crucial for personal growth. One person I greatly admire is my grandmother. She’s been a constant source of wisdom and inspiration throughout my life. Her resilience in face of challenges and her unwavering kindness towards others have profoundly influenced my own values and aspirations.
Part 2: Long Turn
Cue Card
Describe someone older than you 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
Sample Answer (Band 8-9)
I’d like to talk about my high school history teacher, Mr. Johnson, who has been a significant influence in my life. I first met him when I was 15, and he taught me for three years.
Mr. Johnson is in his early sixties now, with a distinguished appearance that commands respect. His salt-and-pepper hair and kind eyes reflect his wisdom and approachability. What truly sets him apart are his exceptional qualities as an educator and mentor.
First and foremost, Mr. Johnson has an unparalleled passion for history. He doesn’t just recite facts; he brings historical events to life through vivid storytelling and thought-provoking discussions. His encyclopedic knowledge is awe-inspiring, yet he always encourages students to think critically and form their own opinions.
Moreover, Mr. Johnson’s dedication to his students goes beyond the classroom. He’s always willing to offer guidance on academic and personal matters, staying after school to help struggling students or provide career advice. His unwavering support has helped countless students, including myself, to reach their full potential.
What I admire most about Mr. Johnson is his integrity and commitment to social justice. He doesn’t shy away from discussing controversial historical topics and always emphasizes the importance of learning from past mistakes. His teachings have instilled in me a deep appreciation for history and its relevance to contemporary issues.
In conclusion, Mr. Johnson’s profound impact on my academic and personal development is why I hold him in such high regard. His passion, wisdom, and moral compass continue to inspire me long after leaving his classroom.
Follow-up Questions
Q: How has this person influenced your life choices?
A (Band 8-9): Mr. Johnson has profoundly shaped my academic and career path. His infectious enthusiasm for history sparked a passion in me that led me to pursue a degree in International Relations. Moreover, his emphasis on critical thinking and social responsibility has influenced my worldview, encouraging me to seek opportunities where I can make a positive impact on society.
Q: Do you think older people have more wisdom than younger people?
A (Band 6-7): In general, I believe older people often have more wisdom due to their life experiences. They’ve had more time to learn from their mistakes and successes. However, I also think that younger people can be wise in their own way, especially when it comes to new technologies or social issues.
A (Band 8-9): While it’s true that age often correlates with wisdom due to accumulated life experiences, I believe the relationship is more nuanced. Older individuals have had more opportunities to learn from diverse situations and develop a broader perspective. However, wisdom isn’t exclusively tied to age. Younger people can possess remarkable insight, particularly in areas like technology or evolving social norms. Ultimately, I think true wisdom comes from a combination of experience, continuous learning, and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances, regardless of age.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Q: In what ways can younger generations learn from older people?
A (Band 6-7): Younger generations can learn a lot from older people. They can gain knowledge about history, traditions, and life experiences. Older people can teach valuable skills and share their wisdom about relationships and career choices. It’s important for young people to listen to and respect the advice of their elders.
A (Band 8-9): The intergenerational transfer of knowledge is invaluable for societal progress. Younger generations can glean insights from older individuals in numerous ways. Firstly, older people offer a wealth of historical context, providing a deeper understanding of how current situations evolved. This perspective can help younger individuals avoid repeating past mistakes and make more informed decisions.
Secondly, older generations often possess time-tested wisdom about navigating personal and professional relationships, which can be particularly beneficial for young adults entering the workforce or starting families. Their experiences with overcoming adversity and adapting to change can serve as powerful lessons in resilience.
Moreover, older individuals can impart practical skills that may be overlooked in formal education, such as financial management or home maintenance. These skills contribute to well-rounded personal development.
However, it’s crucial to note that this learning process should be reciprocal. While younger generations learn from their elders, they can also educate older individuals about new technologies and evolving social norms, fostering a mutually enriching exchange of knowledge and perspectives.
Q: Do you think the generation gap is widening in modern society?
A (Band 8-9): The notion of a widening generation gap in modern society is complex and multifaceted. On one hand, rapid technological advancements and shifting social norms have created unprecedented differences in how different generations communicate, work, and perceive the world. The digital revolution, in particular, has led to a significant disparity in technological fluency between younger and older generations.
However, it’s important to acknowledge that this gap isn’t necessarily wider than in previous eras, just different in nature. Every generation has faced unique challenges and innovations that set them apart from their predecessors. What’s distinctive about our current situation is the accelerated pace of change, which can make the differences seem more pronounced.
Interestingly, modern technology and social media have also provided platforms for intergenerational connection that didn’t exist before. These tools can bridge gaps by facilitating communication and understanding between different age groups.
Ultimately, while there are certainly notable differences between generations today, I believe the key lies in fostering mutual understanding and respect. By acknowledging the unique perspectives and strengths of each generation, we can work towards a more cohesive and harmonious society.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases
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Significant influence (phrase) – /sɪɡˈnɪfɪkənt ˈɪnfluəns/ – A person or thing that has a major impact on someone or something.
Example: “My grandfather was a significant influence in shaping my career choices.” -
Unparalleled (adjective) – /ʌnˈpærəleld/ – Having no equal; exceptional.
Example: “Her dedication to her work is unparalleled in the organization.” -
Vivid storytelling (phrase) – /ˈvɪvɪd ˈstɔːritelɪŋ/ – The act of narrating stories in a highly descriptive and imaginative way.
Example: “The author’s vivid storytelling transported readers to another world.” -
Awe-inspiring (adjective) – /ˈɔː ɪnˌspaɪərɪŋ/ – Extremely impressive or daunting; inspiring great admiration.
Example: “The view from the mountain peak was truly awe-inspiring.” -
Integrity (noun) – /ɪnˈteɡrəti/ – The quality of being honest and having strong moral principles.
Example: “Her integrity in business dealings earned her the respect of colleagues and competitors alike.” -
Instill (verb) – /ɪnˈstɪl/ – Gradually but firmly establish an idea or attitude in a person’s mind.
Example: “Good teachers instill a love of learning in their students.” -
Profound impact (phrase) – /prəˈfaʊnd ˈɪmpækt/ – A deep and significant effect.
Example: “The invention of the internet has had a profound impact on how we communicate.” -
Nuanced (adjective) – /ˈnjuːɑːnst/ – Characterized by subtle shades of meaning or expression.
Example: “The issue requires a nuanced approach, not a simple yes or no answer.”
Examiner’s Advice
To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test when describing someone older you admire:
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Prepare diverse examples: Have several examples of admirable older people ready to discuss, ranging from family members to public figures.
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Use sophisticated vocabulary: Incorporate advanced words and phrases naturally in your responses.
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Provide specific details: Don’t just list qualities; give concrete examples that illustrate why you admire the person.
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Show depth of thought: Reflect on how this person has influenced you or society at large.
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Practice fluency: Aim for smooth delivery without long pauses or hesitations.
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Engage with the examiner: Show enthusiasm in your tone and body language when discussing the person you admire.
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Develop your answers: In Part 3, extend your responses with explanations, examples, and personal opinions.
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Stay on topic: Ensure your answers are relevant to the questions asked.
Remember, regular practice and exposure to English through various media can significantly improve your speaking skills and confidence.
By following these guidelines and consistently practicing, you can enhance your ability to articulate your thoughts about admirable older individuals effectively in the IELTS Speaking test.