-what room this is -what the room looks like -who uses this room the most
and explain what you like or dislike about this room
I’d like to talk about the living room in my house. It’s the heart of our household, where my family and I gather to relax, entertain guests and spend quality time together.
The living room is spacious and well-lit, thanks to a large window that allows plenty of natural light. The walls are painted a calming pastel colour, and there’s a stitched rug that adds a touch of coziness. In terms of furniture, the room has a comfortable L-shaped sofa and a wooden media unit that houses the TV. There’s also a small bookshelf in the corner, which has books and a few family photos.
While everyone in my family uses the living room, I’d say it’s my parents who spend the most time there. My dad enjoys sitting on the sofa with a cup of tea, reading the newspaper in the morning, while my mum often watches her favourite TV shows in the evenings.
What I love most about this room is its versatility. It’s perfect for unwinding after a long day, yet it’s also a welcoming space for socialising. The natural light during the day and the warm glow of the lamps in the evening make it feel cozy and inviting at any hour. The only thing I dislike is the positioning of the furniture. I think a more open layout would enhance the room’s functionality.
Overall, the living room holds a lot of cherished memories, which makes it very special to me.
Talk about a place you visited where everything was expensive. You should say
– what the place was – when you went there – why you think everything there was expensive
and explain whether or not you would visit this place again.
A place I visited that I found to be exceptionally expensive is Dubai, UAE. I visited the city about two years ago during my winter holidays.
I stayed in a luxurious area near the iconic Burj Khalifa, and I was immediately struck by the opulence everywhere. The hotels, restaurants, and even everyday activities seemed tailored to a high-end clientele. For instance, I recall dining at a restaurant with a view of the Dubai Fountain, and while the meal was amazing, the bill left me speechless.
There are a few reasons why everything there is so expensive. For one, Dubai is a global hub for luxury tourism, catering to wealthy visitors from around the world. The city invests heavily in creating world-class entertainment, and the costs are naturally passed on to consumers. Also, many of the goods and services are imported, and this of course adds to their price.
Despite the high costs, I thoroughly enjoyed my time there because the city offers a unique blend of cultural experiences and stunning architecture. I would happily visit again!
This week we’re looking at Part 3 questions that extend upon last week’s cue card on the topic of online videos
Step 1: Tune in to this week’s lesson. (Audio and video version below.)
Part 3 questions
What kinds of videos are popular in your country? Why do you think videos are becoming increasingly popular nowadays? What types of videos do you personally like to watch? How has the rise of online work impacted people’s lives? In your opinion, are people collaborating more online or offline these days? Do you think people worldwide should conduct meetings or collaborations online only?
Step 2: Listen to the sample a few times to get more familiar with the language.
Step 4: Below is Monday’s speech exercise. Post yourself saying this excerpt to your Whatsapp group. Exercises for Tuesday to Friday will be posted in the group by your instructor. (If you have not yet been added to a group, click here to sign up – select ‘Join a Whatsapp group’.)
Post yourself saying this into your Whatsapp group!🗣️📲
In Vietnam, comedy sketches, especially those portraying everyday life, tend to go viral on social media. Educational content, like language tutorials or cooking videos, also garners significant attention.
What kinds of videos are popular in your country? In Vietnam, comedy sketches, especially those portraying everyday life, tend to go viral on social media. Educational content, like language tutorials or cooking videos, also garners significant attention.
Why do you think videos are becoming increasingly popular nowadays? Videos have become a dominant form of content because they are engaging and accessible. With widespread smartphone usage and affordable internet, people can easily watch videos anytime and anywhere. Videos also combine visuals, sound and storytelling, which I feel makes them entertaining.
What types of videos do you personally like to watch? I enjoy watching a mix of educational and entertaining videos. Since I’m studying English, I often watch tutorials on grammar topics and pronunciation. For leisure, I gravitate toward travel vlogs, particularly those showcasing western Europe, which is a region I would like to visit.
How has the rise of online work impacted people’s lives? The shift to online work has created more job opportunities for individuals in rural areas. It has also allowed people to work more flexibly and reduce their commute. However, it has also reduced face-to-face interaction and has increasingly isolated people.
In your opinion, are people collaborating more online or offline these days? I think online collaboration has become more common in recent years, especially with advancements in technology and the impact of the pandemic. However, in my country, offline collaboration remains significant, especially in manufacturing industries. I think this is because these industries produce a physical product and thus require people to be physically present at the workplace.
Step 4: Below is Monday’s speech exercise. Post yourself saying this excerpt to your Whatsapp group. Exercises for Tuesday to Friday will be posted in the group by your instructor. (If you have not yet been added to a group, click here to sign up – select ‘Join a Whatsapp group’.)
Post yourself saying this into your Whatsapp group!🗣️📲
About a year ago, I had a flat tyre while driving on a quiet road, and I realised I didn’t know how to change it. Luckily, I had my phone with me, so I searched for a tutorial online. I found a clear, step-by-step guide explaining how to change a tyre.
Step 5: It’s very important that you note any new language items or pronunciation points from this week’s lesson in your journal to help you chronicle your improvement.📝
Transcript
Describe a video you watched online that you learned something from. You should say
– when you watched it – what the video was about – what you learned from it and explain how you felt after watching the video.
About a year ago, I had a flat tyre while driving on a quiet road, and I realised I didn’t know how to change it. Luckily, I had my phone with me, so I searched for a tutorial online. I found a clear, step-by-step guide explaining how to change a tyre.
The video was hosted by a mechanic, and he started the video with an explanation of what tools were needed, such as the spare tyre, a jack and a lug wrench. He then demonstrated how to safely position the jack under the car, loosen the lug nuts, and remove the damaged tyre. The presenter also emphasised safety tips, like ensuring the car was on a flat surface and using hazard lights to alert other drivers.
From this video, I learned how to change a tyre from start to finish. I discovered the importance of loosening the lug nuts before lifting the car and how to tighten them in a crisscross pattern to ensure the new tyre was securely attached.
This video was incredibly practical, and it gave me a sense of confidence and preparedness for future situations. It’s a very basic skill that I’m glad I learned, and I now make sure to check my car’s tools regularly to be ready for any emergencies.
This week we’re looking at Part 1 questions on the topic of ‘exercise’.
Step 1: Tune in to this week’s lesson. (Audio and video version below.)
This week’s Part 1 questions:
Where do you live? Can you describe your hometown? What is your favourite place to visit in your hometown? How easy is it to walk around your hometown? Let’s talk about exercise. Do you like to exercise? What kind of exercise do you most regularly do? Is this kind of exercise popular in your country?
Step 2: Listen to the sample a few times to get more familiar with the language.
Step 4: Below is Monday’s speech exercise. Post yourself saying this excerpt to your Whatsapp group. Exercises for Tuesday to Friday will be posted in the group by your instructor. (If you have not yet been added to a group, click here to sign up – select ‘Join a Whatsapp group’.)
Post yourself saying this into your Whatsapp group!🗣️📲
Muscat is a city that blends traditional and modern elements. For example, you’ll find ancient forts like Al Mirani, which dates back centuries, standing alongside contemporary landmarks such as the Royal Opera House. The people are very internationally minded. It’s a great place to live.
Step 5: It’s very important that you note any new language items or pronunciation points from this week’s lesson in your journal to help you chronicle your improvement.📝
Transcript
Where do you live? I live in Muscat. It is the capital city of Oman.
Can you describe your hometown? Muscat is a city that blends traditional and modern elements. For example, you’ll find ancient forts like Al Mirani, which dates back centuries, standing alongside contemporary landmarks such as the Royal Opera House. The people are very internationally minded. It’s a great place to live.
What is your favourite place to visit in your hometown? My favourite spot is Mutrah Souq, an enchanting traditional market near the coast. There you can find stalls selling everything from spices and textiles to jewellery and antiques.
How easy is it to walk around your hometown? Walking around Muscat can be enjoyable in specific areas, such as the walkway along the coast or within parks like Qurum Natural Park. However, the city is spread out, and the weather can be quite hot, especially in the summer, so walking isn’t always practical.
Let’s talk about exercise. Do you like to exercise? Yes, I enjoy exercising, as it helps me stay fit and reduces stress.
What kind of exercise do you most regularly do? I regularly go for evening walks. There is a beautiful walkway along the coast in my city. The sea breeze and the stunning views of the harbour make it a refreshing and enjoyable activity.
Is this kind of exercise popular in your country? Yes, walking is quite popular in Oman, especially during the cooler months. The country’s diverse landscapes, from mountains to beaches, provide plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. Many people see these as great ways to enjoy Oman’s natural beauty while staying active.
This week we’re looking at Part 3 questions on the topic of ‘museums’. This was a topic seen on a very recent IELTS Speaking exam!
Step 1: Tune in to this week’s lesson. (Audio and video version below.)
This week’s Part 3 questions:
Should museums charge admission fees, or should they be free for citizens? Do you think making museums free could increase tourism within a country? How can the cost of visiting cultural sites affect tourism? What kinds of museums do you most enjoy visiting? Would you ever like to work in a museum? Do museums play an important role in society?
Step 2: Listen to the sample a few times to get more familiar with the language.
Step 4: Below is Monday’s speech exercise. Post yourself saying this excerpt to your Whatsapp group. Exercises for Tuesday to Friday will be posted in the group by your instructor. (If you have not yet been added to a group, click here to sign up – select ‘Join a Whatsapp group’.)
Post yourself saying this into your Whatsapp group!🗣️📲
“In my opinion, museums should ideally be free for citizens, as this promotes greater access to cultural and historical knowledge. This is essential for fostering a well-informed and culturally aware society.”
Step 5: It’s very important that you note any new language items or pronunciation points from this week’s lesson in your journal to help you chronicle your improvement.📝
Transcript
Should museums charge admission fees, or should they be free for citizens?
In my opinion, museums should ideally be free for citizens, as this promotes greater access to cultural and historical knowledge. This is essential for fostering a well-informed and culturally aware society.
Do you think making museums free could increase tourism within a country?
Yes, I do believe that making museums free could be a draw for tourists. Many travellers look for ways to immerse themselves in a country’s heritage, and free museum access could be a strong incentive.
How can the cost of visiting cultural sites affect tourism?
I think high entry fees may discourage some visitors, leading them to seek more affordable activities. When cultural sites are priced modestly, it makes it possible for tourists of all backgrounds to enjoy and learn about a place’s history, art and culture.
What kinds of museums do you most enjoy visiting?
I am most drawn to art museums and history museums. Art museums captivate me with their diverse collections that span centuries and continents, offering insight into various cultures and artistic movements. History museums, on the other hand, fascinate me with their focus on the evolution of life and ancient civilizations.
Would you ever like to work in a museum?
Yes, working in a museum is something I would definitely consider. Museums are treasure troves of knowledge, and the idea of contributing to the preservation of history and culture is very appealing. I also think I would enjoy helping visitors connect with the past in meaningful ways.
Do museums play an important role in society?
Absolutely. Museums play a vital role in society by preserving history and educating the public. They safeguard artifacts that might otherwise be lost to time. Museums also provide a shared space for learning and reflection.
This week we look at a new Part 2 cue card (see below).
Step 1: Tune in to this week’s lesson. (Audio and video version below.)
This week’s cue card:
Talk about a popular public location in your country. You should say: -where this place is -what people do there -why it is popular and explain how you feel about this place
Step 2: Listen to the sample a few times to get more familiar with the language.
Step 4: Below is Monday’s speech exercise. Post yourself saying this excerpt to your Whatsapp group. Exercises for Tuesday to Friday will be posted in the group by your instructor. (If you have not yet been added to a group, click here to sign up – select ‘Join a Whatsapp group’.)
Post yourself saying this into your Whatsapp group!🗣️📲
I’m from Los Angeles in the United States. A highly visited location in Los Angeles is Venice Beach. It’s known for its mix of art, recreation and local culture.
Step 5: It’s very important that you note any new language items or pronunciation points from this week’s lesson in your journal to help you chronicle your improvement.📝
Transcript
Talk about a popular public location in your country. You should say: -where this place is -what people do there -why it is popular and explain how you feel about this place
I’m from Los Angeles in the United States. A highly visited location in Los Angeles is Venice Beach. It’s known for its mix of art, recreation and local culture.
Venice Beach is located west of downtown, and it attracts both locals and tourists who come for the beach life and the vibrant boardwalk. Here, people can walk or cycle along the boardwalk and shop for handmade items at small vendor stalls. The area also has skate parks and open-air gyms, including the iconic Muscle Beach, where bodybuilders train in front of audiences.
Venice Beach is celebrated for its eclectic and energetic environment. It combines California’s beach culture with artistic and bohemian vibes. Its famous canals, which were designed to be similar to Venice, Italy, add a quiet contrast to the more lively atmosphere of the boardwalk.
For me, Venice Beach represents the spirit of Los Angeles. It’s a place where diverse communities and creative expressions come together. The mix of natural beauty, art and open-minded culture makes it an inspiring place to visit, and I find the lively energy there refreshing. It’s a space where you can observe a unique blend of art and individuality that’s hard to find anywhere else.
This week we look at questions from Part 1 of a new exam. The topic is ‘breakfast’.
Step 1: Tune in to this week’s lesson. (Audio and video version below.)
This week’s Part 1 questions:
Do you work or study? What do you like about your job? Would you like to change your job in the future? Let’s talk about breakfast. Do you think breakfast is important? What do people typically eat for breakfast in your country? Do you ever skip eating breakfast? When do you usually eat breakfast?
Step 2: Listen to the sample a few times to get more familiar with the language.
Step 4: Below is Monday’s speech exercise. Post yourself saying this excerpt to your Whatsapp group. Exercises for Tuesday to Friday will be posted in the group by your instructor. (If you have not yet been added to a group, click here to sign up – select ‘Join a Whatsapp group’.)
Post yourself saying this into your Whatsapp group!🗣️📲 I do both, actually. I currently work as a cashier in a fast food restaurant, and I’m also studying business management.
Step 5: It’s very important that you note any new language items or pronunciation points from this week’s lesson in your journal to help you chronicle your improvement.📝
Transcript
Do you work or study?
I do both, actually. I currently work as a cashier in a fast food restaurant, and I’m also studying business management.
What do you like about your job?
What I enjoy most about my job is learning about the business’s processes and how these processes can be improved. It’s interesting to see what’s required to keep our operations running smoothly while ensuring customers leave happy.
Would you like to change your job in the future?
Yes, definitely. I’m studying business management with the goal of transitioning into a more senior role where I can apply those skills. I have enjoyed working as a cashier, but it is not what I want to do long term.
Let’s talk about breakfast. Do you think breakfast is important?
Absolutely, I believe breakfast is essential. It’s the first meal of the day and really helps kick-start the body and mind. Personally, I notice a big difference in my energy and focus when I’ve had a nutritious breakfast compared to days when I skip it.
What do people typically eat for breakfast in your country?
In Portugal, traditional breakfasts can be quite hearty. A Portuguese breakfast might include eggs, cold cut meats or bacon, toast and possibly grilled tomatoes or baked beans. Of course, for a lighter option, many people enjoy porridge or just toast and coffee or tea, especially on weekdays when mornings are busier.
Do you ever skip eating breakfast?
Occasionally, yes, especially if I’m in a rush. However, I do try to avoid skipping it as I’ve noticed it affects my concentration and energy levels throughout the day. On busier mornings, I might grab something like a banana or yogurt just to keep myself fueled.
When do you usually eat breakfast?
I usually have breakfast around 7:30 in the morning, just before starting my workday or study session. It gives me a good foundation to stay focused and productive. On weekends, I might have it a bit later, but it’s still something I try to make time for every day.
This week we look at questions from Part 3 that follow-up on last week’s cue card. The topic is: the future of the internet.
Step 1: Tune in to this week’s lesson. (Audio and video version below.)
This week’s Part 3 questions:
How has the internet changed the way people access information? Do you think people rely too much on websites for information nowadays? What are the advantages of using websites compared to traditional sources like books or newspapers? Are there any disadvantages to getting information from websites? How do you think websites will evolve in the future? Do you think artificial intelligence will have a big impact on how websites are designed and used?
Step 2: Listen to the sample a few times to get more familiar with the language.
Step 4: Below is Monday’s speech exercise. Post yourself saying this excerpt to your Whatsapp group. Exercises for Tuesday to Friday will be posted in the group by your instructor. (If you have not yet been added to a group, click here to sign up – select ‘Join a Whatsapp group’.)
Post yourself saying this into your Whatsapp group!🗣️📲 In the past, people had to rely on physical resources such as books and libraries. Nowadays, with just a few clicks, we can access a vast array of data on virtually any topic. Additionally, the internet offers multimedia options—videos, infographics, podcasts—which cater to various learning styles.
Step 5: It’s very important that you note any new language items or pronunciation points from this week’s lesson in your journal to help you chronicle your improvement.📝
Transcript
How has the internet changed the way people access information? In the past, people had to rely on physical resources such as books and libraries. Nowadays, with just a few clicks, we can access a vast array of data on virtually any topic. Additionally, the internet offers multimedia options—videos, infographics, podcasts—which cater to various learning styles.
Do you think people rely too much on websites for information nowadays? Yes, to an extent. While it’s convenient and time-efficient, people often skim articles or rely on unverified sources, which can lead to misinformation. However, it’s also important to acknowledge the positive side: the internet provides a level of accessibility to knowledge that was previously unimaginable.
What are the advantages of using websites compared to traditional sources like books or newspapers? Firstly, websites provide real-time updates, whereas printed books or newspapers might take days or months to be published. Secondly, websites are searchable, making it far easier to locate specific information in seconds. And finallly, websites often provide interactive content that can enrich the learning experience far beyond what traditional media can offer.
Are there any disadvantages to getting information from websites? As I mentioned before, one major disadvantage of obtaining information from websites is the prevalence of misinformation. Another issue is the distraction factor, as websites often contain ads and other stimuli that can interfere with focused reading.
How do you think websites will evolve in the future? I believe websites will become even more personalised and intuitive in the future. As artificial intelligence continues to advance, websites will likely offer highly customised experiences, predicting what information a user needs before they even ask for it.
Do you think artificial intelligence will have a big impact on how websites are designed and used? I feel artificial intelligence is already having a profound impact on web design and usage, and this trend will only intensify. In the future, I think we’ll see AI-driven websites that can autonomously update content, optimise their own design and have increasingly sophisticated interactions with users.
Step 4: Below is Monday’s speech exercise. Post yourself saying this excerpt to your Whatsapp group. Exercises for Tuesday to Friday will be posted in the group by your instructor. (If you have not yet been added to a group, click here to sign up – select ‘Join a Whatsapp group’.)
Post yourself saying this into your Whatsapp group!🗣️📲 One website that I frequently visit is Coursera.com. It’s an online learning platform that offers a wide range of courses across various disciplines. I primarily use Coursera for continuing my education. It offers a rich collection of courses that are both theoretical and practical, covering topics like machine learning, artificial intelligence and statistical analysis.
Step 5: It’s very important that you note any new language items or pronunciation points from this week’s lesson in your journal to help you chronicle your improvement.📝
Transcript
Describe a website that you regularly visit. You should say: What the website is What you use it for Why you like it And explain how it benefits you.
One website that I frequently visit is Coursera.com. It’s an online learning platform that offers a wide range of courses across various disciplines.
I primarily use Coursera for continuing my education. It offers a rich collection of courses that are both theoretical and practical, covering topics like machine learning, artificial intelligence and statistical analysis. The interactive learning approach, including hands-on projects and quizzes, has been instrumental in enhancing my knowledge.
What I appreciate most about this website is its flexibility. Being able to learn at my own pace is incredibly convenient. Additionally, the platform often provides certificates upon completion, which helps me build a credible portfolio. This is a real advantage in today’s competitive job market.
Coursera has benefited me immensely, and it was key to my career transition into data science. It has broadened my knowledge base, introduced me to real-world applications and improved my confidence in handling complex techniques. Moreover, the global network of learners allows me to collaborate with and learn from others who share similar interests. It’s a website that I would highly recommend.
