Author: Ryan

Lesson 106: Routines in your country⏰

This week, you will train for Part 3 of IELTS Speaking. The topic this week requires you use the present simple, as you are speaking about routines.

Step 1: Listen to the full sample.

Step 2: Work through this week’s sample ‘repeat after me’ exercise.

Step 3: Complete this week’s full exercise.

Step 4: Read through this week’s transcript and note the language you found challenging. Review this language in the coming weeks.

Step 5: Complete this week’s Whatsapp exercises with your instructor. Post your samples to your group and wait for your instructor’s feedback.

Chat on WhatsApp

Transcript

Are your daily routines similar to other people from your country?
Yes, my daily routines are similar to those of others in my country. We generally follow a consistent pattern of activities throughout the day, such as morning routines, work or school commitments, designated break times, recreational activities, and evening preparations for sleep.

Are routines easy to change?
Routines can be both easy and challenging to change. It depends on factors like personal motivations, external circumstances, flexibility of commitments, and individual adaptability. Some find it easier to adjust to new routines, while others may struggle. For example, someone with a more structured work schedule may find it harder to modify their routine compared to someone with a more flexible lifestyle. Ultimately, the ability to change routines varies from person to person.

At what time of the day do you prefer to carry out your routines?
Personally, I prefer morning routines. Starting the day early allows me to be productive, energised, and focused. After waking up, I engage in my morning hygiene routine and have a nutritious breakfast to fuel my body and mind. This helps me feel energised and ready to tackle the tasks and responsibilities that lie ahead. I find the peaceful atmosphere in the early hours further enhances my concentration and sets a positive tone for the day.

How do people in your country spend their free time?
People in my country engage in various activities during their free time. These include pursuing hobbies, spending time with loved ones, personal development through reading or attending workshops, and utilising technology for entertainment or information.

What did people do in their free time in the past?
In the past, people engaged in traditional forms of entertainment. Activities such as socialising, playing traditional games, reading books, writing letters, and outdoor pursuits were common. People connected on a personal level and appreciated simpler pleasures.

How have current leisure activities changed compared to the past?
Leisure activities have significantly changed due to technology and societal shifts. Digital entertainment, such as streaming movies, playing video games, and social media, has become prevalent. Traditional hobbies and outdoor activities still exist but have taken a backseat. Efforts are being made to promote balance between digital engagement and real life experiences, encouraging physical fitness, social interaction and personal growth.

May 29, 2023

Lesson 105: A daily routine🤞

This week examines an extremely common IELTS Speaking topic! You will train to speak about a daily routine.

Let’s start the lesson by looking at the following IELTS Speaking Part 2 cue card:

Describe a daily routine in your life. You should say:
-what you do
-when you started doing it
-why you do this routine
-and explain whether you will change it in the future and why

Now work your way through the below steps. Be sure to note any and all new language you come across in your notebook.

Step 1: Tune in to this week’s podcast episode (video version available below).

Step 2: Listen to the sample a few times to get more familiar with the language.

Step 3: Complete this week’s full exercise.

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 would like to talk about my daily exercise routine, which has become an integral part of my life. Every morning, without fail, I dedicate a significant amount of time to physical exercise, helping me maintain a healthy lifestyle.”

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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

I would like to talk about my daily exercise routine, which has become an integral part of my life. Every morning, without fail, I dedicate a significant amount of time to physical exercise, helping me maintain a healthy lifestyle.

I started this routine approximately five years ago when I realised the importance of regular exercise for both physical and mental well-being. Initially, it was a challenge to incorporate exercise into my daily schedule, but with time and perseverance, it has become an essential habit. I usually engage in a combination of cardiovascular exercises, such as jogging or cycling, followed by strength training exercises using weights or resistance bands.

There are several reasons why I adhere to this routine religiously. Firstly, physical exercise helps me stay fit and energetic throughout the day. It boosts my metabolism, improves my stamina, and enhances my overall physical endurance. Further, exercise also plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy weight, which is essential for preventing lifestyle diseases such as obesity and diabetes. Moreover, regular exercise has been proven to have positive effects on mental health, reducing stress and anxiety while promoting a sense of well-being and happiness.

Considering the immense benefits I have experienced over the years, I have no plans to change this routine in the foreseeable future. The positive impact it has had on my overall health and well-being is too significant to overlook. Because the benefits I have gained from this routine have greatly exceeded my expectations, I firmly believe that daily exercise will remain a vital aspect of my life.

May 22, 2023

Lesson 104: A person you would like to work or study with👨‍🏫

This week’s lesson uses the following Part 2 cue card:

Talk about a person you want to work or study with. You should say:
-who the person is
-how you know him/her
-what he/she does
-and explain why you want to work or study with this person

Step 1: Listen to the full sample.

Step 2: Work through this week’s sample exercise.

Step 3: Now attempt the full exercise below.

Step 4: Read through the below transcript and note any and all language you found challenging this week.

Step 5: Complete your speech samples and send them to your Whatsapp instructor.

Chat on WhatsApp

Transcript

Talk about a person you want to work or study with. You should say:
-who the person is
-how you know him/her
-what he/she does
-and explain why you want to work or study with this person

The person I would like to work or study with is my former professor, Dr. Maria Hernandez. I got to know her during my undergraduate years at university, where she was my lecturer for several courses related to my major in psychology.

Dr. Hernandez is an accomplished academic with over 20 years of experience in teaching and research. She has published numerous papers in top-tier academic journals and has received multiple awards and accolades for her contributions to the field. Her research interests in social psychology, particularly on group dynamics and intergroup relations, align with my own research interests and aspirations.

I would love to work or study with Dr. Hernandez for several reasons. First, she is an excellent mentor who is supportive and encouraging. She has always been approachable and responsive to my questions and concerns, and has provided invaluable guidance and feedback on my academic work. Second, her research expertise and experience would be a valuable asset for any project or collaboration. Working with her would not only enhance my own skills and knowledge, but also provide opportunities for networking and collaboration with other scholars in the field. Finally, Dr. Hernandez’s passion for teaching and learning is infectious, and I am confident that working or studying with her would be a stimulating and rewarding experience.

In conclusion, Dr. Maria Hernandez’s expertise, mentorship, and passion for teaching and research would be invaluable in achieving my academic and professional goals, and I would relish the opportunity to collaborate with her on future projects.

May 15, 2023
Lesson 103: T-shirts👕

This week, you will train to speak about clothing, specifically T-shirts. Use the below shadowing technique to improve your fluency.

Step 1: As always, start this week’s training by familiarising yourself with the model.

Step 2: (The IELTSCast episode for this week is temporarily unavailable.)

Step 3: Now complete your full shadowing practice using the below exercise. (If you do not yet have access to full exercises, click here.)

Step 4: Read through the below transcript and make note of all items you found challenging or new this week.

Step 5: Send your speech samples to your Whatsapp instructor and wait for their feedback.

Chat on WhatsApp

Transcript

Where do you live?

I currently reside in Dhaka. It’s a vibrant city with lots to offer in terms of culture, entertainment, and opportunities.

Do you like wearing T-shirts?

Absolutely! T-shirts are comfortable and versatile, making them a staple in my wardrobe. I find them perfect for casual outings, exercise, or even lounging at home.

How often do you wear T-shirts?

I wear T-shirts almost every day, especially during the warmer months. They’re easy to style and can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion.

What kind of T-shirts do you wear for different occasions?

For casual outings or running errands, I usually wear plain, solid-coloured T-shirts. For more formal events, I opt for dressier T-shirts with a subtle pattern or design. I also enjoy wearing graphic tees with quirky prints for a funkier look.

Have you ever bought a T-shirt as a souvenir from a place you visited?

Yes, I have. I think buying a T-shirt as a souvenir is a great way to remember a trip or experience. I have a collection of T-shirts from various places that hold special memories for me.

What do you think of T-shirts with slogans or messages on them?

I think T-shirts with slogans or messages on them can be a great way to express oneself or make a statement. However, I do believe that the message should be positive and respectful. I find it inappropriate when T-shirts have offensive or derogatory messages on them.

May 8, 2023
Lesson 102: Noise pollution🎺

In today’s shadowing session, you will train to speak about noise and how it can negatively impact a person’s life.

Step 1: Listen to the full speaking model multiple times. Try to envision the way you will shadow this dialogue.

Step 2: (This week’s IELTSCast episode is temporarily unavailable.)

Step 3: Work through the full exercise below.

Step 4: Read through the below transcript of the dialogue between the candidate and the examiner. What language was new to you this week? What was challenging? Note these items in your journal and review this journal regularly.

Step 5: Complete your speech samples and submit them to your Whatsapp instructor.

Chat on WhatsApp

Transcript

Is noise pollution an issue where you live?

Yes, noise pollution is definitely an issue where I live. There are a number of factors contributing to the noise pollution, such as heavy traffic, construction work, and noisy neighbours. I believe that this is a common problem in many urban areas, and it can have a negative impact on people’s quality of life.

What do you think are the main causes of noise pollution in our cities?

In my opinion, the main causes of noise pollution in our cities are transportation and construction. The increasing number of cars, trucks, and motorcycles on the roads can create a lot of noise, especially during rush hour. Additionally, construction sites can generate loud and persistent noise that can be very disruptive to nearby residents.

Can noise pollution affect people’s health?

Yes, noise pollution can certainly affect people’s health. Exposure to excessive noise levels can lead to a range of health problems, such as hearing loss and high blood pressure. It can also cause sleep disturbances, which can have a negative impact on overall health and well-being.

How do you think noise pollution affects wildlife?

Noise pollution can have a significant impact on wildlife. Many animals rely on sound to communicate, navigate, and locate food, and excessive noise can disrupt these activities. For example, loud noises can scare away birds and other animals from their habitats, making it difficult for them to find food or shelter.

Do you think governments should regulate noise levels in public places more strictly?

I strongly believe that governments should regulate noise levels in public places more strictly. Excessive noise can have a negative impact on people’s health, as well as their quality of life. By implementing regulations and enforcing noise limits, governments can help to mitigate the effects of noise pollution and create a more peaceful and livable environment for all.

Thank you. This marks the end of the speaking exam.

May 1, 2023
Lesson 101: A noisy situation😖

Is speech shadowing effective? Yes! Let this lesson about ‘a noisy situation’ convince you. Here is the Part 2 cue card we are using in today’s exercise:

Describe a situation where you experienced a lot of noise.
You should say:

-Where you were
-What made the noise
-How the noise affected you
-And what you did do to deal with the noise

Part 1: First, listen to the full sample.

Step 2: This week’s IELTSCast episode is temporarily unavailable.

Step 3: Complete the full exercise by watching the below video.

Step 4: Read through the below transcript and note what you’ve learned today.

Step 5: Submit your five speaking samples to your Whatsapp instructor and wait for their feedback.

Chat on WhatsApp

Transcript

Describe a situation where you experienced a lot of noise.
You should say:

-Where you were
-What made the noise
-How the noise affected you
-And what you did do to deal with the noise

I’m going to describe a situation where I experienced a lot of noise. This happened a few months ago when I was visiting a friend who lived near a construction site. The noise was coming from the construction site, where they were building a new apartment complex.

The construction was very loud and it affected me in a number of ways. First of all, it was difficult to carry on a conversation with my friend because we occasionally had to shout to hear each other over the noise. Additionally, the noise was so persistent that it was difficult to focus on anything else. I found myself becoming increasingly irritable and frustrated as the noise continued.

In order to deal with the noise, we decided to leave the apartment and go for a walk in a nearby park. This helped us to get away from the noise and enjoy some peace and quiet for a while. We also wore earplugs when we were inside the apartment, which helped to reduce the noise somewhat.

Overall, the experience was very frustrating, but I learned a lot from it. I realised how much noise can affect my mood and my ability to focus, and I have since become more aware of the noise levels in my environment. If I ever find myself in a similar situation again, I will be sure to take steps to minimise the impact of the noise on my wellbeing.

Thank you.

April 24, 2023

Lesson 100: Your hometown and noise🔊

This week’s lesson will demonstrate to you some of the advantages of shadowing. You will speak about the most common topic in IELTS Speaking: your hometown. The dialogue with the examiner then evolves to talk about noise.

Step 1: Familiarise yourself with the questions asked in the demonstration and this week’s target language.

Part 1 Questions

Where are you from?
What is your hometown like?
Is your hometown peaceful or noisy?
What are the main sources of noise in your hometown?
Does the noise interfere with your daily life?
Do you like places that are peaceful?

🧑‍🎓Target language:

noise pollution (noun)
-a group of unpleasant sounds

“There are always road repairs being done and new buildings going up, which can lead to a lot of noise pollution.”

Step 2: Listen to the sample a few times to get more familiar with the language.

Step 3: Engage this week’s full speech shadowing lesson. (If you do not yet have access, click here to sign up for full lessons.)

Post yourself saying this into your Whatsapp group!🗣️📲

“Toronto is a very dynamic and exciting city with a lot to offer. There are many different neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and charm. Some parts of the city are very modern and bustling, while others have a more historic and traditional feel. Overall, Toronto is a great place to live.”

Chat on WhatsApp

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 are you from?

I am originally from the vibrant city of Toronto.

What is your hometown like?

Toronto is a very dynamic and exciting city with a lot to offer. There are many different neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and charm. Some parts of the city are very modern and bustling, while others have a more historic and traditional feel. Overall, Toronto is a great place to live.

Is your hometown peaceful or noisy?

It really depends on where you are in the city. Some parts of Toronto are quite peaceful and serene, while others are quite noisy and chaotic. For example, the downtown core can be very noisy due to the traffic and crowds, while some of the residential neighborhoods are much quieter.

What are the main sources of noise in your hometown?

The main sources of noise in Toronto are definitely the traffic and construction. There are always road repairs being done and new buildings going up, which can lead to a lot of noise pollution. In addition, the city is also home to many events and festivals, and these can be quite loud and busy.

Does the noise interfere with your daily life?

To some extent, yes, the noise can be a bit of a nuisance at times. However, I have learned to adapt to it and it doesn’t really interfere with my daily life too much. I think it’s just a part of living in a big city.

Do you like places that are peaceful?

Yes, I definitely enjoy peaceful places. While I love the excitement and energy of the city, I also appreciate the tranquility of more peaceful environments. It’s nice to be able to escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and just relax in a peaceful setting.

Thank you.

April 17, 2023

Lesson 99: Movie preferences📽️

Sometimes people ask broad questions like “Is shadowing good or bad?” or “Is shadowing useful?” I hope lessons like this one convince you that shadowing is key to your IELTS Speaking preparation! In this lesson, you are going to shadow speech patterns on the topic of ‘movie preferences’.

Step 1: Listen to the full sample.

Step 2: This week’s IELTSCast episode is temporarily unavailable.

Step 3: Work through the full speech shadowing exercise.

Step 4: Read through the below transcript and make special note of the new or challenging language you shadowed this week.

Step 5: Complete all five of your shadowing exercises with your Whatsapp instructor.

Chat on WhatsApp

Transcript

Do you often watch movies twice?
I would say that I rarely watch a movie twice. However, there are some movies that I have enjoyed so much that I have watched them multiple times. For instance, I have watched “The Shawshank Redemption” a few times because I think it is a classic movie that has a great storyline and excellent performances by the actors. Generally, I believe that watching a movie twice can be beneficial as it allows the viewer to notice certain details that they may have missed the first time around. It also gives them a chance to appreciate the nuances of the film and to develop a deeper understanding of the story.

Why do some movies remain people’s favourite forever, no matter when they were released?
I think some movies remain people’s favourite because they have timeless themes and universal appeal. These movies almost always deal with human emotions and experiences that are relatable to people of all ages and cultures. Additionally, these movies often have excellent storytelling, great acting, and memorable characters that resonate with viewers. Furthermore, some movies become classics because they were groundbreaking in their time and have had a significant impact on the film industry, influencing future filmmakers and shaping the direction of cinema.

How do people usually choose which movies to watch?
People usually choose which movies to watch based on several factors, including their interests, recommendations from friends or family, reviews, and the movie’s genre, actors, or director. Some people also choose to watch a movie based on its trailer or promotional media, which can give them a sense of the film’s tone and style. Ultimately, the decision to watch a movie is often influenced by personal preferences and individual tastes.

Do you think people’s taste in movies is influenced by their age, gender or culture?
I believe these things can be influential to some extent, yes. For example, younger viewers may be more drawn to action or superhero movies, while older viewers may prefer dramas or romantic comedies. As far as gender is concerned…the women in my family are much more interested in comedy and drama movies than the men. This could perhaps be gender related. Additionally, people’s cultural background can also influence their preferences, as different cultures may have different storytelling traditions and styles of filmmaking. However, it is important to note that individual taste is also shaped by personal experiences and individual preferences.

Do you think the popularity of certain actors or actresses influences people’s choice of movies?
Yes, I believe the popularity of certain actors or actresses can influence people’s choice of movies. Fans of a particular actor or actress may be more likely to watch a movie simply because their favourite actor is in it. Additionally, the presence of a popular actor or actress can also help to create buzz and generate interest in a movie, especially if they have a large following on social media or are known for delivering great performances. However, it is important to note that the popularity of an actor or actress is not the only factor that determines a person’s movie choice. Other factors such as the storyline, direction, and production value also play a significant role.

Thank you. This marks the end of the speaking exam.

April 10, 2023
Lesson 98: A recent development in your city🏙️

This week, you will shadow the below monologue. This is an exercise that helps you prepare for Part 2 of the exam. Here is the cue card that will be used in the exercise:

Describe a recent development in your city.
You should say:
-what it is
-where it is located
-how long it took to complete
-and explain how you feel about it

Step 1: Listen to the full sample.

Step 2: The free IELTSCast episode for this week is temporarily unavailable.

Step 3: Complete the full speech shadowing exercise below.

Step 4: Read through the below transcript and note areas you need to review in the coming weeks.

Step 5: Submit your speech samples to your Whatsapp instructor.

Chat on WhatsApp

Transcript

Describe a recent development in your city.
You should say:
-what it is
-where it is located
-how long it took to complete
-and explain how you feel about it

One recent development in my city that I would like to discuss is the construction of a new public transportation system known as ‘The Metro’. It is a much needed addition to our city’s infrastructure, providing a safe, fast, and convenient mode of transportation to commuters. The Metro is located in the heart of the city, with stations spread across major areas, and it runs on electricity, making it an environmentally friendly option.

The construction of The Metro was a massive undertaking that took over four years to complete. The government had to acquire land, lay tracks, build stations, and install state-of-the-art equipment while ensuring minimal disruption to the existing infrastructure. Despite the many challenges faced during the construction, the end result has been worth it.

Personally, I feel thrilled about this development. The Metro has made commuting a hassle-free experience for me and many others in the city. It has not only reduced travel time but has also provided a much needed relief from the exhausting and stressful traffic conditions that we had to endure earlier. Additionally, The Metro has reduced air pollution, making our city a healthier place to live in.

In conclusion, the development of The Metro in my city is a positive change that has benefited many. It is a perfect example of how investing in public infrastructure can enhance the quality of life for citizens. I hope that the government will continue to invest in such developments in the future, making our city an even better place to live in.

April 3, 2023
Lesson 97: A leisure activity you did when you were young🏓

This week, you will use the speech shadowing process to talk about a leisure activity you did when you were young. Here is the cue card used in today’s training:

Describe a leisure activity that you did when you were young.

You should say:

-what it was

-where you did it

-who you did it with

-and explain how you felt about this activity

Part 1 and 2: These sections are temporarily unavailable.

Part 3: Complete the full exercise below.

Part 4: Refer to the below transcript of this week’s exercise and note any challenging language you came across.

Part 5: Submit your own speech samples to your Whatsapp instructor.

Chat on WhatsApp

Transcript

Describe a leisure activity that you did when you were young.

You should say:

-what it was

-where you did it

-who you did it with

-and explain how you felt about this activity

When I was young, I was an avid reader. I would usually read in my bedroom, which was my favourite spot to escape into a different world. My parents were very supportive of my reading habit and they would often take me to the library or bookstore to pick out new books. I would also borrow books from my friends at school and exchange recommendations with them.

Reading was a solitary activity for me, but it allowed me to explore different perspectives and ideas. It was a way for me to travel to different places and experience different cultures, all from the comfort of my own home. It was also a way for me to learn new things and broaden my horizons.

I felt a sense of excitement and anticipation whenever I started a new book. I would become completely engrossed in the story and would lose track of time. Reading was a way for me to escape from reality and enter a different world, even if it was just for a little while.

Overall, reading was a leisure activity that brought me immense pleasure and satisfaction when I was young. It allowed me to explore new ideas and perspectives, and it helped me to develop my imagination and creativity. Even now, as an adult, I still love to read and I credit my childhood reading habit for fostering a lifelong love of learning.

March 27, 2023