IELTS Speaking Part 3 Questions – Role Models

IELTS speaking part 3 questions about role models

In this post, you will see one of the most common IELTS speaking topics for part 3 (Role Models) and sample answers.

Please remember that in the actual test you should give honest answers and talk about your own experiences, thoughts, feelings and opinions. Do not try to memorise answers, as the examiners will probably be able to guess and you will lose marks.

However, you are able to make up information to extend your answers, but be sure that you are confident when speaking about the chosen topic and that it is believable.

TIP >> Listen to the questions the examiner asks you and think about the structure of the question. Are they asking your for your opinion? or to say how something has changed from the past to the present?

TIP >> Learn about the most commonly asked question types used in the part 3 questions. This will help you to identify how you should respond and what to look out for when you are practising.

TIP >> It is common for many people to say ‘I don’t know’ or to lose focus when they get a question they know little about. Always answer the questions and if you feel as though you don’t know about the topic, then buy yourself some time by saying; ‘I haven’t really thought about that before…. but in my opinion……’ then give your opinion, etc. 

TIP >> Don’t try to answer the questions as quickly as possible, take your time and answer them to the best of your ability. Give your opinion, the reasoning behind it and support with specific examples. 

Take a look at the questions and sample answers below on the topic of ‘Role Models‘ >>


Q: Which type of people are respected most in our society?

A: I think that generally, the type of people that others look up to are mainly those with money and very expensive possessions. Like those who have homes that are lavish, luxury cars and designer clothes. Others may have more respect for those who do jobs that are difficult and rewarding, for example, doctors, nurses and teachers. Speaking for myself, I would say that I hold those in high regard who work for non-profit organisations, helping those who have nothing, like the homeless, refugees and animal shelters. 

Q: Do you agree with this situation?

A: I certainly do not agree that people should follow and respect those who flaunt their wealth. Obviously, most people who are rich have worked hard to get where they are. Wealth does not always equal happiness and respect should go, in my opinion to those who do jobs that perhaps are very difficult and keep society running smoothly. For instance, the road sweepers, the litter collectors, the people who run the animal shelters for free, they are the people who should have more respect from society. 

Q: What happens when young people lack good role models?

A: In my view, they can become difficult and have no direction in life. Without someone to look up to, they have no one to follow, to show them right from wrong and how to have a good life. Impressionable young people will then follow someone with a strong personality, even though they might not be the best example.

Q: What standards of behaviour should teachers set?

A: When students are in school, the teacher should be an exemplary role model for them to follow. They spend so much time with their teachers during this time, that the lessons they learn and the behaviour they see, will shape their own behaviours. For example, the teacher will create classroom rules, that all students have to follow. In my view, this is a good example of the teacher being a strong person that the students should look up to. 

Q: Do you agree that you should never meet your heroes?

I do agree with this, as meeting your heroes can ruin the image of them you have. You build them up in your imagination, into being who you want them to be. When you meet them and see how they really are, it shatters your view, thus ending your dreamlike state of how amazing this person is. The public persona that many ‘heroes’ have does not match what they may be like in real life, so thinking about them, how you have them in your imagination, is much better!


We hope you found this post useful in helping you to study for the IELTS Test. If you have any questions please let us know in the comments below or on the Facebook page.

The best way to keep up to date with posts like this is to like us on Facebook, then follow us on Instagram and Pinterest

If you need help preparing for the IELTS Test, join the IELTS Achieve Academy and see how we can assist you to achieve your desired band score. We offer an essay correction service, mock exams and online courses.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top