As an experienced IELTS examiner, I understand the importance of effectively describing a good role model in the IELTS Speaking test. This topic is frequently encountered in various parts of the speaking exam and can significantly impact your overall score. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore strategies and sample answers to help you excel in this area.
Understanding the Topic’s Relevance in IELTS Speaking
Describing a good role model is a versatile topic that can appear in any part of the IELTS Speaking test. It’s particularly common in Part 2 (Long Turn) and Part 3 (Two-way Discussion). The ability to articulate the qualities and impact of a role model demonstrates your language skills, critical thinking, and cultural awareness – all crucial aspects that examiners assess.
IELTS Speaking Test
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, you might encounter questions related to role models or influential people. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:
Q: Do you have any role models in your life?
A: Absolutely. I’d say my grandfather is my primary role model. He’s been a constant source of inspiration throughout my life, demonstrating resilience and wisdom in every situation he faces. His ability to remain calm under pressure and make thoughtful decisions has always impressed me.
Q: What qualities do you think make a good role model?
A: In my opinion, a good role model should possess several key qualities. Integrity is paramount – they should consistently demonstrate honesty and ethical behavior. Resilience is also crucial, as it shows the ability to overcome challenges. Additionally, I believe a good role model should be empathetic, able to understand and connect with others. Lastly, they should have a strong work ethic and a passion for continuous learning.
Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)
Here’s a sample cue card related to describing a good role model:
Describe a person you consider to be a good role model.
You should say:
- Who this person is
- How you know this person
- What qualities make them a good role model
- And explain why you admire this person
Sample answer:
“I’d like to talk about my high school science teacher, Dr. Sarah Thompson, who I consider to be an exceptional role model. I first met Dr. Thompson when I was 15, and she taught me biology for three years.
What sets Dr. Thompson apart as a role model are her numerous admirable qualities. First and foremost, she has an insatiable curiosity about the world around her. Her enthusiasm for scientific discovery is contagious, and she has a remarkable ability to make complex concepts accessible to her students. This passion for knowledge inspired many of us to pursue careers in science.
Moreover, Dr. Thompson is an embodiment of perseverance. She often shared stories of her challenging journey to become a scientist, overcoming both personal and professional obstacles. Her resilience in the face of adversity taught us valuable lessons about not giving up on our dreams.
Another quality that makes her an outstanding role model is her commitment to ethical science. She consistently emphasized the importance of integrity in research and the responsible use of scientific knowledge. This ethical stance has profoundly influenced my approach to my own studies and career.
I deeply admire Dr. Thompson because she goes above and beyond her role as a teacher. She actively mentors students, providing guidance and support even after they’ve graduated. Her dedication to nurturing the next generation of scientists is truly commendable.
In conclusion, Dr. Thompson’s combination of intellectual curiosity, resilience, ethical commitment, and mentorship makes her an exemplary role model. Her influence has shaped not only my career path but also my personal values and approach to life’s challenges.”
Follow-up questions:
- How has this role model influenced your life choices?
- Do you think you share any similarities with this role model?
Sample answers:
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Dr. Thompson has profoundly influenced my life choices. Her passion for science inspired me to pursue a degree in biology, and her emphasis on ethical research has guided my approach to scientific studies. Moreover, her resilience in overcoming obstacles has taught me to persevere in my own challenges, both academic and personal.
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While I may not have achieved her level of expertise yet, I believe I share her enthusiasm for learning and her commitment to ethical practices. I also try to emulate her approach to mentoring others, as I’ve found myself guiding younger students in my university, inspired by her example.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
In this part, the examiner might ask more abstract questions related to role models. Here’s a sample dialogue:
Examiner: Do you think celebrities make good role models for young people?
Candidate: That’s an interesting question. I believe it depends largely on the individual celebrity. Some celebrities use their platform responsibly, promoting positive values and engaging in philanthropic work. These individuals can indeed be excellent role models, inspiring young people to strive for success while maintaining integrity and social responsibility.
However, it’s important to acknowledge that many celebrities lead lifestyles that are unattainable for most people, which can create unrealistic expectations. Additionally, the constant media scrutiny they face can lead to a distorted view of their lives.
In my opinion, while some celebrities can be positive role models, it’s crucial for young people to have diverse role models, including those from their immediate communities who demonstrate everyday acts of kindness, resilience, and achievement.
Examiner: How has the concept of role models changed in recent years?
Candidate: The concept of role models has undergone significant changes in recent years, primarily due to the advent of social media and the changing landscape of information access.
Firstly, social media has dramatically expanded the pool of potential role models. In the past, role models were often limited to famous personalities, local community leaders, or family members. Now, young people can find inspiration from a diverse range of individuals across the globe, including social media influencers, entrepreneurs, and activists who might not have had a platform in traditional media.
Secondly, there’s been a shift towards more relatable and authentic role models. People are increasingly drawn to individuals who share their struggles and vulnerabilities, rather than those who present a perfect, polished image. This change reflects a broader societal move towards valuing authenticity and personal growth.
Lastly, the concept of role models has become more fluid and multifaceted. People now tend to look up to different individuals for various aspects of their lives, rather than having a single, all-encompassing role model. This reflects the complexity of modern life and the diverse skill sets required to navigate it successfully.
In conclusion, while the fundamental idea of looking up to inspirational figures remains, the nature of role models and how we interact with them has evolved significantly in our increasingly connected and complex world.
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
To achieve a high score in IELTS Speaking when describing a good role model, consider using these advanced vocabulary items and phrases:
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Exemplary /ɪɡˈzempləri/ (adjective): Serving as a desirable model; representing the best of its kind.
Example: “Her exemplary conduct in the face of adversity inspired many.” -
Emulate /ˈemjʊleɪt/ (verb): To try to equal or excel; imitate with effort to equal or surpass.
Example: “Many young scientists try to emulate Dr. Thompson’s research methods.” -
Paradigm of virtue /ˈpærədaɪm əv ˈvɜːrtʃuː/ (phrase): A perfect example of moral excellence.
Example: “His grandfather was a paradigm of virtue in the community.” -
Beacon of hope /ˈbiːkən əv həʊp/ (phrase): A source of inspiration or encouragement.
Example: “In difficult times, she became a beacon of hope for her colleagues.” -
Embodiment of /ɪmˈbɒdimənt əv/ (phrase): A person or thing that represents a quality or idea exactly.
Example: “The professor was the embodiment of scientific curiosity.” -
Unwavering commitment /ʌnˈweɪvərɪŋ kəˈmɪtmənt/ (phrase): Steady, persistent dedication.
Example: “Her unwavering commitment to social justice set her apart as a leader.”
Examiner’s Advice
To excel in describing a good role model in IELTS Speaking:
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Prepare diverse examples: Have several role models in mind from different fields (e.g., personal life, profession, history) to adapt to various questions.
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Focus on specific qualities: Instead of general praise, highlight particular attributes that make the person a good role model.
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Use personal anecdotes: Relate how the role model has influenced you personally to add authenticity to your answer.
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Practice articulating impact: Be ready to explain not just who the role model is, but how they’ve affected you or others.
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Expand your vocabulary: Incorporate advanced terms related to character and influence to elevate your language use.
Remember, the key to success lies in combining relevant content with sophisticated language use. Regular practice and expanding your vocabulary will help you articulate your thoughts more effectively, leading to higher scores in the IELTS Speaking test.
For more tips on describing influential people in your IELTS Speaking test, check out our guide on how to describe a person who has positively influenced you in IELTS Speaking. Additionally, if you’re interested in exploring related topics, you might find our article on how to describe a person who is very inspiring in IELTS Speaking helpful.