As an experienced IELTS examiner, I understand the importance of describing people effectively in the IELTS Speaking test. One common topic that often appears is describing a supportive person in your life. This article will guide you through answering this question, providing sample responses and valuable tips to help you achieve a high band score.
Supportive person in IELTS Speaking
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1 of the IELTS Speaking test, you may be asked questions about supportive people in your life. Here are some common questions and sample answers:
- Do you have supportive people in your life?
- How do you show support to others?
- In what ways can people be supportive?
Let’s focus on the first question:
Question: Do you have supportive people in your life?
Sample Answer:
“Absolutely. I’m fortunate to have several supportive people in my life. My parents have always been my biggest cheerleaders, encouraging me in my studies and career choices. Additionally, I have a close-knit group of friends who are always there for me through thick and thin. Their unwavering support has been instrumental in helping me overcome challenges and achieve my goals.”
In this response, notice the use of positive language and specific examples. The speaker demonstrates a good vocabulary range with phrases like “biggest cheerleaders” and “instrumental,” which can help achieve a higher band score.
Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)
In Part 2, you might receive a cue card asking you to describe a supportive person. Here’s a sample cue card:
Describe a person who has been very supportive in your life.
You should say:
- Who this person is
- How you know this person
- What they have done to support you
- And explain why their support has been important to you
Sample Answer:
“I’d like to talk about my high school English teacher, Mrs. Thompson, who has been incredibly supportive throughout my academic journey.
I first met Mrs. Thompson when I was 15 years old, in my sophomore year of high school. From the very beginning, she stood out as a teacher who was genuinely invested in her students’ success.
Mrs. Thompson’s support has been multifaceted. Academically, she consistently pushed me to improve my writing and critical thinking skills. She would spend extra time after class reviewing my essays and providing detailed feedback. But her support extended beyond the classroom. When I was struggling with confidence in public speaking, she encouraged me to join the debate club and even coached me personally to help me overcome my fears.
Perhaps the most significant way she supported me was during my college application process. Mrs. Thompson went above and beyond, helping me brainstorm ideas for my personal statement, proofreading my applications, and writing a glowing recommendation letter. Her belief in my abilities gave me the confidence to apply to top-tier universities.
Her support has been crucial to my personal and academic growth. Mrs. Thompson’s unwavering faith in my potential motivated me to push myself harder and aim higher. Thanks to her support, I not only improved my English skills dramatically but also developed a love for literature that continues to enrich my life. Her mentorship has shaped my approach to learning and has inspired me to be equally supportive to others in my life.”
This response demonstrates a wide range of vocabulary, good use of tenses, and clear organization. The speaker provides specific examples and explains the impact of the support, which are key elements for a high band score.
Follow-up Questions
After your long turn, the examiner might ask you some follow-up questions. Here are a few examples with sample answers:
- Why do you think some people are more supportive than others?
Sample Answer: “I believe that a person’s capacity for support often stems from their own experiences and upbringing. Those who have received support themselves are more likely to understand its value and pay it forward. Additionally, empathy plays a crucial role. People who are naturally empathetic tend to be more attuned to others’ needs and are thus more supportive. Lastly, I think personal values and beliefs significantly influence one’s supportiveness. Those who prioritize community and relationships are generally more inclined to offer support to others.”
- How can companies create a supportive work environment?
Sample Answer: “Companies can foster a supportive work environment through several strategic approaches. Firstly, implementing mentorship programs can create a culture of support and knowledge-sharing. Secondly, promoting open communication and providing platforms for employees to voice their ideas and concerns can make them feel valued and supported. Companies can also offer professional development opportunities, showing their investment in employees’ growth. Lastly, recognizing and rewarding collaborative efforts rather than just individual achievements can encourage a more supportive atmosphere among colleagues.”
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In Part 3, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here’s a sample dialogue:
Examiner: How do you think the concept of support differs across cultures?
Candidate: “That’s an intriguing question. I believe the concept of support can vary significantly across cultures, primarily due to differences in social structures and values. In many collectivist societies, such as those found in East Asia, support is often seen as a communal responsibility. Extended families and communities play a crucial role in providing support, and it’s often expected and reciprocal.
On the other hand, in more individualistic cultures, like many Western countries, support might be more focused on promoting personal independence. There’s often an emphasis on emotional support and empowering individuals to solve their own problems.
Moreover, the expression of support can differ. In some cultures, support might be shown through direct advice or practical help, while in others, it could be more about providing a listening ear or offering encouragement without interfering directly.
It’s also worth noting that globalization is blurring these distinctions to some extent, leading to more hybrid approaches to support in many parts of the world.”
Examiner: Do you think technology has changed the way people support each other?
Candidate: “Absolutely. Technology has revolutionized the way we offer and receive support in several ways.
Firstly, it has made support more accessible and immediate. With social media and messaging apps, we can reach out for support or offer it to others at any time, regardless of physical distance. This has been particularly evident during the recent global pandemic, where technology allowed people to maintain supportive relationships despite physical isolation.
Secondly, technology has expanded our support networks. Online communities and forums have made it possible for people to find support from others with similar experiences, even if they don’t have that support in their immediate environment. This has been particularly beneficial for people dealing with rare conditions or specific challenges.
However, it’s important to note that technology has also brought new challenges to how we support each other. The ease of digital communication can sometimes lead to a lack of depth in our supportive interactions. There’s also the risk of digital fatigue and the pressure to be constantly available, which can impact the quality of support we provide.
On balance, though, I believe technology has largely enhanced our ability to support each other, providing new tools and platforms that complement traditional forms of support.”
These responses demonstrate critical thinking, balanced arguments, and the ability to discuss abstract concepts – all crucial for achieving a high band score in Part 3.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
To achieve a high band score, it’s essential to use a range of sophisticated vocabulary and phrases. Here are some examples:
Unwavering support /ʌnˈweɪvərɪŋ səˈpɔːrt/ (noun phrase): Constant, steady support that doesn’t diminish.
Example: Her unwavering support gave me the confidence to pursue my dreams.To go above and beyond /tuː ɡəʊ əˈbʌv ænd bɪˈjɒnd/ (idiom): To do more than is expected or required.
Example: My mentor went above and beyond by reviewing my work on weekends.Instrumental /ˌɪnstrəˈmentl/ (adjective): Serving as a crucial means or agency.
Example: His advice was instrumental in helping me secure the job.To foster /ˈfɒstər/ (verb): To encourage the development of something.
Example: Good leaders foster a supportive environment in their teams.Multifaceted /ˌmʌltɪˈfæsɪtɪd/ (adjective): Having many different aspects or features.
Example: Her support was multifaceted, covering emotional, practical, and professional aspects.
Examiner’s Advice
To excel in describing a supportive person in your IELTS Speaking test:
- Use specific examples to illustrate the person’s supportive actions.
- Vary your vocabulary when discussing support (e.g., encourage, motivate, inspire).
- Discuss the impact of the person’s support on your life.
- Practice describing different types of supportive relationships (family, friends, mentors).
- Be prepared to discuss support in abstract terms for Part 3 questions.
Remember, the key to a high band score is not just about what you say, but how you say it. Aim for fluency, a range of vocabulary, and the ability to discuss the topic in depth.
For more tips on acing your IELTS Speaking test, check out our articles on how to describe a time you felt satisfied with your work and how to talk about a time you were proud of a family member. These resources will help you expand your range of topics and improve your overall performance.