Questions and sample answers
Why are people interested in the lives of celebrities?
Because their lives seem exciting and different from ordinary life. People enjoy comparing themselves with celebrities and following their stories like an ongoing television series.
Do celebrities have a responsibility to be good role models?
Yes, since millions of young people watch them. They do not need to be perfect, but they should avoid promoting harmful behaviour.
Is fame always positive?
No. Famous people lose their privacy, and a single mistake can be criticised by millions online. The pressure can seriously affect their mental health.
Should celebrities' private lives be protected?
I believe so. Public work can be discussed, but photographing their families or homes without permission is intrusive and not necessary for the public interest.
Why do some young people want to become famous?
They see fame as a route to money and admiration. Social media has made it look easy, but only a tiny number of people actually achieve lasting success.
Useful vocabulary
- role model — a person others copy or admire
- in the public eye — known and watched by many people
- privacy — the right to keep personal life private
- intrusive — entering where not welcome
- influencer — a person with a large online audience
- admiration — respect and approval
- tabloid — a newspaper focusing on gossip
Tips for this topic
- Give a balanced judgement: positive and negative.
- Use modals for opinion: “should”, “need to”.
- Avoid naming real people; speak in general.
Study guides
How Is IELTS Scored in Speaking and Writing? Criteria, Weighting and Rounding
The short answer first, then the Speaking and Writing criteria tables, how Task 1 and Task 2 combine and how the overall band is rounded.
IELTS Speaking Band Descriptors Explained in Plain English
The IELTS Speaking test is marked on four criteria. Here is what each one means at bands 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9, with short examples you can compare with your own answers.
IELTS Speaking Part 2: How Many Minutes to Speak (With a Practice Timer)
How long Part 2 lasts (1 minute to prepare, 1–2 minutes to speak), a practice timer, a four-step structure and a model answer.