IELTS Speaking Part 3: Two-Way Discussion

“That is an interesting question to consider. I would argue that parents generally have a more profound influence, particularly in the early years when a child's values and personality are still being formed. The home environment shapes a child's sense of identity, emotional security, and fundamental attitudes towards the world.”

“That said, teachers play a distinctive and arguably irreplaceable role from a different angle. They are the people who introduce children to ideas, ways of thinking, and areas of knowledge that parents may not have access to. A particularly inspiring teacher can ignite a lifelong passion — for literature, science, or the arts — in a way that transforms a child's trajectory. So I would say the two influences are complementary rather than competing, though the parental influence tends to run deeper simply because of the time and emotional bond involved.”

“It has changed enormously, and largely because of social media. In the past, celebrities were relatively distant figures — you might see them in a film or on television, but the interaction was always one-way. Nowadays, influencers and celebrities communicate directly with their followers, sharing everyday moments, opinions, and even personal struggles. This creates a sense of intimacy that previous generations simply did not have access to.”

“The impact of this shift is difficult to overstate. On one hand, it has given young people access to role models from more diverse backgrounds and with more relatable life experiences. On the other hand, it has also intensified pressure around appearance, lifestyle, and consumption in a way that raises real concerns. I think it depends on whether the celebrity uses their platform responsibly — which, unfortunately, is not always the case.”

“I think there is genuine value in it, yes — provided it is done thoughtfully. Learning about historical figures gives students a sense of continuity and context. Understanding the decisions made by leaders in the past helps young people develop a more nuanced view of how societies evolve and how individuals can shape events, for better or worse.”

“However, I would argue that the manner of teaching matters as much as the content. If historical figures are presented uncritically, as simply heroic or villainous, the lesson becomes superficial. A more valuable approach encourages students to evaluate these individuals in their historical context — acknowledging both their contributions and their failures. This kind of critical thinking is arguably more important than the factual content itself.”