As an IELTS instructor with over 20 years of experience, I often get asked about common Speaking topics. One that frequently pops up is “Who is your favourite star?”. While it might seem straightforward, successfully navigating this question in an IELTS Speaking test requires understanding its nuances and showcasing your language skills effectively.
Why Ask “Who is Your Favourite Star?” in IELTS Speaking
The IELTS Speaking test evaluates your fluency, vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation. The examiners aren’t actually interested in who you consider a “star” – they want to see how well you can:
- Develop a coherent and engaging response: Can you structure your answer logically and maintain a smooth flow?
- Use a range of vocabulary: Do you rely on basic words or demonstrate a wider vocabulary related to personalities, achievements, and admiration?
- Utilize varied grammatical structures: Can you confidently use complex sentences and different tenses to convey your ideas effectively?
- Speak clearly and naturally: Is your pronunciation understandable, and do you use intonation to make your response engaging?
Mastering the “Favourite Star” IELTS Speaking Topic
1. Define “Star” Broadly
Don’t limit yourself to Hollywood celebrities. “Star” can refer to:
- Actors/Actresses
- Musicians/Singers
- Athletes
- Authors
- Historical figures
- Entrepreneurs
2. Choose a “Star” You Can Speak About
Select someone whose:
- Work you genuinely admire and can describe
- Life story you’re familiar with
- Achievements you can elaborate on
Example: Instead of just saying, “My favourite star is Emma Watson,” you could say, “I’ve always admired Emma Watson, not just for her acting but also for her advocacy work on gender equality.”
3. Structure Your Response
Use a clear and organized structure, such as:
- Introduction: Briefly state who your favourite star is.
- Main Points: Provide reasons for your choice, supporting each reason with examples.
- Conclusion: Summarize your thoughts and perhaps mention the star’s impact or future endeavors.
4. Use Vivid Language
Instead of simple vocabulary, showcase a wider range:
- Adjectives: Inspirational, talented, charismatic, groundbreaking, resilient
- Verbs: Captivated, inspired, influenced, achieved, overcame
- Idioms/Expressions: “A role model for…” “Paved the way for…” “Left an unforgettable mark on…”
Example: Instead of saying, “He’s a good singer,” you could say, “His powerful voice and soulful lyrics have captivated audiences worldwide.”
Sample Answer From an IELTS Speaking Test
Examiner: Who is your favourite star?
Candidate: My favourite star is Malala Yousafzai. I’ve been deeply inspired by her courage and activism from a very young age. She stood up for the right to education, even in the face of immense danger, and her unwavering determination is something I truly admire. Malala’s story shows that even as a young person, you can make a significant difference in the world, and her work continues to empower girls and advocate for education on a global scale.
Final Tips for Success
- Practice Regularly: Practice speaking about different “stars” to improve fluency and vocabulary.
- Record Yourself: Listen for areas needing improvement in pronunciation, grammar, or coherence.
- Don’t Memorize: Focus on developing your speaking skills, not reciting pre-prepared answers.
- Be Yourself: Speak genuinely and enthusiastically – your personality can shine through!
Remember, the “favourite star” topic is an opportunity to demonstrate your English language proficiency. By preparing well and approaching it strategically, you can confidently ace this aspect of the IELTS Speaking test.