IELTS Speaking Part 2 · People
Describe a famous person you admire
Describe a famous person you admire
You should say:
- who this person is
- what this person is famous for
- how you first learned about them
and explain why you admire this famous person so much
How to plan your answer
Use your 1 minute to jot down key words for each point, not full sentences.
- 1
who this person is
Who: Dr. Arthur Vance, a pioneering eco-architect who transforms urban environments worldwide.
- 2
what this person is famous for
Famous for: Designing sustainable, plant-covered skyscrapers that run entirely on solar energy.
- 3
how you first learned about them
Learned about: Discovered his work while watching a documentary during my university studies.
- 4
and explain why you admire this famous person so much
Why admire: Admire his commitment to creating affordable green housing for underprivileged communities.
Sample answer
about 249 words · 2 minutesI'd like to talk about a famous person I truly look up to, Dr. Arthur Vance, who is an innovative architect and environmental pioneer. He is primarily famous for designing revolutionary eco-friendly buildings that incorporate vertical gardens and advanced renewable energy systems directly into urban spaces. His work basically blends modern architecture with natural ecosystems to reduce city carbon footprints. I first came across him a few years ago while watching a television documentary about sustainable urban development. I was instantly captivated by his creative approach because he didn't just build striking towers; he turned concrete structures into living, breathing green hubs. After that broadcast, I started following his articles and public lectures online to learn more about his design philosophy. The main reason I admire him so much is his unshakeable dedication to social responsibility. Even though he has achieved international fame and could easily focus only on lucrative luxury contracts, he devotes a huge portion of his time to designing affordable, energy-efficient housing for disadvantaged communities. Moreover, he frequently uses his public platform to advocate for urgent climate action, urging young designers to prioritize sustainability over profit. What makes him stand out to me is that he actively practices what he preaches. He does not just give speeches; he actually delivers practical solutions that improve people's everyday lives. In conclusion, his rare combination of artistic brilliance, environmental passion, and genuine empathy makes him someone I deeply respect and consider a great role model for the next generation.
A teaching example, not a script to memorise. Say it in your own words.
Useful phrases
look up to
I have always looked up to my high school teacher for her guidance.
first came across
I first came across this author while browsing in a local bookstore.
stand out
Her ability to stay calm under pressure really makes her stand out.
practices what he preaches
He is a great leader because he always practices what he preaches.
reduce carbon footprints
Using public transport is an effective way to reduce carbon footprints.
Common mistakes
I admire him because he is very famous person.
I admire him because he is a very famous person.
Missing article 'a' before singular countable noun phrase 'very famous person'.
I am knowing about him since three years ago.
I have known about him for three years.
'Know' is a state verb; use present perfect for duration, not present continuous.
He made me to feel inspired.
He made me feel inspired.
The causative verb 'make' takes a bare infinitive without 'to'.
Tips for a higher band
- Use dynamic topic vocabulary related to the person's field instead of repeating basic adjectives like 'good' or 'nice'.
- Connect your ideas smoothly with natural discourse markers like 'instantly captivated' and 'what makes him stand out'.
- Vary your sentence structure by combining reasons with relative clauses and concession markers like 'even though'.
Part 3 follow-up questions
After Part 2 the examiner may ask deeper questions on the same theme.
- Do you think celebrities have a responsibility to be positive role models for young people?
- How has the definition of a 'famous person' changed with the rise of social media?
- Why do some famous people lose their popularity over time?
Now try this cue card
1 minute to prepare, up to 2 minutes to speak, then a band estimate and tips for each criterion.
Practice estimate, not an official IELTS score.