Express Yourself: Writing About Someone You Admire
Express Yourself: Writing About Someone You Admire
Items in this lesson
Express Yourself: Writing About Someone You Admire
Learning Objective
At the end of the lesson you will be able to write a structured essay describing a person you admire, using clear reasons and examples.
Essay structure: introduction
In the introduction of an essay about someone we admire, we should name the person and explain why we admire them. It is helpful to give a little background, such as who they are and how we know about them. We can also mention their main qualities, for example that they are kind or determined. To finish the introduction, we can add a clear thesis sentence that says what the essay will be about and what we will focus on in the next paragraphs.
Essay structure: main paragraphs
In the main body, each paragraph should have one clear topic and then give details and examples. One paragraph can describe the person’s life and achievements, and another can explain their personality and actions. To support our ideas, we should include specific examples, such as a time they helped someone or worked hard to reach a goal. We can also use linking words like ‘firstly’, ‘also’ and ‘because’ to make the writing coherent. A good paragraph ends by connecting back to why we admire the person.
Vocabulary to improve your essay (conclusion and opinion)
In the conclusion, we should summarise the main points and restate why the person is important to us. We can use stronger vocabulary to show opinion, for example ‘I respect them because…’ or ‘They are inspiring because…’. We can also add phrases like ‘In my view’ or ‘Overall’ to sound more formal. A good conclusion ends with a final thought about what we can learn from them.
What do you already know about writing an essay about a person you admire?
Why Write About Someone You Admire?
Writing about someone you admire helps develop your descriptive and explanatory skills. It also lets you share positive qualities and tell inspiring stories.
Structure of Your Essay
Describe the person’s qualities, actions, and achievements. Give specific examples. Explain how they inspire you.
Start with who you admire and why. Make the reader interested right away.
Main Paragraphs
Introduction
Example: Someone I Admire
Here is a short example essay about a person someone admires. Notice how the structure is organised and ideas are clear.
Useful Language and Phrases
Use phrases like: “I admire… because…”, “He/She is important to me because…”, “One example of his/her kindness is…”, “He/She inspires me to…”
Planning Your Essay
Choose someone you truly admire. Make a list of their qualities and examples. Use a mind map or bullet points to organise your ideas.
Reflection: What Did You Learn?
Think about how writing about someone you admire can improve your writing skills and help you express your thoughts clearly.
Write down 3 things you learned in this lesson.
Write down 2 things you want to know more about.
Ask 1 question about something you haven't quite understood yet.
