Author Archives: Ryan

Lesson 172: Talking in depth about your hometown🏠

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Non-stop shadowing lessons!

This week we’re looking at Part 3 questions that expand on the topic of ‘your hometown’.

Step 1: (No podcast episode published this week. Please proceed to Step 2.)

Part 3 questions
What is your hometown most well known for?
Is it easy for a person to become integrated in your hometown?
Do many tourists visit your hometown?
What are some of the challenges your hometown faces today?
Would you say your hometown is a good place for young people to live?

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.)

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!🗣️📲

“My hometown is a small town in Ontario. I would say it is most well known for its rich agricultural roots. It hosts the oldest agricultural fair in Canada: The Carp Fair. It also has a Cold War-era underground bunker that has been transformed into Canada’s Cold War Museum. I would say these two things would be our biggest attractions.”
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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

What is your hometown most well known for?

My hometown is a small town in Ontario. I would say it is most well known for its rich agricultural roots. It hosts the oldest agricultural fair in Canada: The Carp Fair. It also has a Cold War-era underground bunker that has been transformed into Canada’s Cold War Museum. I would say these two things would be our biggest attractions.

Is it easy for a person to become integrated in your hometown?

Yes. My hometown doesn’t really have a definitive identity, so I think newcomers find it easy to blend in. Also, because of its smaller size, it’s easy to get to know your neighbours.

Do many tourists visit your hometown?

While my hometown doesn’t attract the volume of tourists that larger cities do, it does see a steady stream of visitors. The Cold War Museum I was mentioning is a unique historical site that draws both history enthusiasts and school groups. Also, tourists who enjoy rural getaways often visit Carp for its serene landscapes and farmer’s markets in the summer and fall.

What are some of the challenges your hometown faces today?

I would say my hometown’s major challenge is balancing growth while maintaining its rural character. As neighbouring Ottawa expands, there is the risk that my hometown will become amalgamated. Some people see this as a threat to the small-town lifestyle and local businesses that residents cherish.

Would you say your hometown is a good place for young people to live?

Carp offers a peaceful and safe environment, which can be ideal for young families or those who prefer a slower pace of life. It has a strong sense of community, and its proximity to Ottawa means young people have access to urban job opportunities and higher education. Overall, it’s a good place for those who appreciate a balance between rural and urban living.

Lesson 171: A special place in your hometown 🌇

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Non-stop shadowing lessons!

This week we’re looking at a Part 2 cue card on the topic of ‘a special place in your hometown’.

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

Describe a place in your hometown that is special to you. You should say:
-what this place is
-where it is located
-how often you visit it
and explain why this place is special to you.

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.)

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!🗣️📲

“A place that is particularly special to me is a small hill located just outside my old high school. This hill, though modest in size, offers an incredible view of the surrounding area. It’s located on the outskirts of the town where I grew up, and it’s a spot that holds a lot of memories for me.”
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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

Describe a place in your hometown that is special to you. You should say:
-what this place is
-where it is located
-how often you visit it
and explain why this place is special to you.

A place that is particularly special to me is a small hill located just outside my old high school. This hill, though modest in size, offers an incredible view of the surrounding area. It’s located on the outskirts of the town where I grew up, and it’s a spot that holds a lot of memories for me.

I used to visit this hill frequently after my classes or on weekends. Even now, I make it a point to stop by when I’m back in town. I’d say I visit a few times a year, and each time, it feels like visiting an old friend.

What makes this hill so special to me is the sense of peace and reflection it offers. During my high school years, it was my go-to place whenever I needed to clear my head or take a break from studying. I would sit at the top. There’s an amazing view that stretches out over the town and allows you to catch the sunset. The colours of the sunset from that vantage point are breathtaking! It’s a sight that never fails to calm my mind and lift my spirits.

Beyond its beauty, the hill has a deep personal significance. It was a place where I would often go with friends after school. We would sit and talk about our dreams, our fears and our plans for the future. Those conversations, which often occured against the backdrop of the setting sun, are some of my most cherished memories.

Even now, this simple hill is a reminder of a simpler time and of the friendships and dreams I had when I was younger.

Lesson 170: Being courteous🙂

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Non-stop shadowing lessons!

This week we’re looking at Part 1 questions on the topic of courtesy.

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

Part 1 questions
Where are you from?
Do you work or are you a student?
What hobbies do you enjoy in your free time?
Do any of your hobbies involve interacting with other people?
Let’s talk about etiquette. How important is it to be courteous in everyday interactions?
Is having good manners helpful to people?
What is considered courteous behaviour in your culture?
🧑‍🎓Target language:

if given the choice (phrase)
-used to express a preference

“We exchange tips on the best routes and sometimes hike together although if given the choice I prefer to hike alone.”

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.)

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 originally from Hella, a small and charming town in southern Iceland. It’s known for its close proximity to beautiful waterfalls and volcanic landscapes.”
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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

Where are you from?

I’m originally from Hella, a small and charming town in southern Iceland. It’s known for its close proximity to beautiful waterfalls and volcanic landscapes.

Do you work or are you a student?

I work as a librarian in a local library. I enjoy helping people find the information they need and organising events that promote literacy and learning within the community.

What hobbies do you enjoy in your free time?

In my free time, I like to hike. The area around my town offers some fantastic hiking along scenic river trails. Hiking allows me to unwind and stay active.

Do any of your hobbies involve interacting with other people?

Yes, hiking often involves social interaction, especially when I join group hikes or meet other hikers on the trails. We exchange tips on the best routes and sometimes hike together although if given the choice I prefer to hike alone.

Let’s talk about etiquette. How important is it to be courteous in everyday interactions?

In my opinion, it is extremely important. Courtesy fosters respect and harmony, and this can make everyday interactions more pleasant and productive.

Is having good manners helpful to people?

Definitely. Good manners are key to creating a respectful environment and can help to avoid misunderstandings. When we practice good manners, we show that we value others’ time and their perspectives, which in turn encourages others to treat us with the same respect.

What is considered courteous behavior in your culture?

In Icelandic culture, courteous behaviour includes practices such as greeting others warmly, being punctual, and respecting others’ personal space. For example, when entering a room or meeting someone, it’s customary to greet them with a handshake and a smile. Icelanders also value straightforwardness and honesty, so being direct but polite is considered courteous. Additionally, saying “takk”, which is “thank you” in Icelandic, for any kind of help is a common way to show appreciation.

Lesson 169: Responding to questions about working in a team🧏

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Non-stop shadowing lessons!

This week’s IELTS Part 3 questions extend upon last week’s cue card. In both cases, the topic revolves around working as part of a team.

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

Part 3 Questions
What are the advantages and disadvantages of working in a team?
How do you think technology has impacted teamwork in recent years?
What are some common challenges people face when working in a team?
How can conflicts within a team be effectively resolved?
Have you ever learned something valuable about yourself through working with others?
🧑‍🎓Target language:

seamlessly(adv.)
-with no spaces between one part and the next

“With the advent of digital collaboration tools like video conferencing, teams can now work together seamlessly regardless of geographical location.”

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.)

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 of the most significant advantages is the diversity of perspectives that different team members bring. Additionally, teamwork allows for the distribution of tasks, which can lead to greater productivity.”
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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

What are the advantages and disadvantages of working in a team?

One of the most significant advantages is the diversity of perspectives that different team members bring. Additionally, teamwork allows for the distribution of tasks, which can lead to greater productivity.

However, there are also disadvantages to teamwork such as the potential for conflict. Another disadvantage is that some individuals may contribute less and rely on others to carry the workload.

How do you think technology has impacted teamwork in recent years?

Technology has had a profound impact on teamwork, particularly in the last decade. With the advent of digital collaboration tools like video conferencing, teams can now work together seamlessly regardless of geographical location. This has enabled the rise of remote teams and allowed organisations to tap into talent pools from around the world.

What are some common challenges people face when working in a team?

One of the most common challenges in teamwork is communication. Miscommunication or lack of communication can lead to confusion, mistakes and a lack of cohesion among the team members. Another challenge is the potential for personality clashes. In any team, there are likely to be individuals with differing temperaments or working styles, which can create tension.

How can conflicts within a team be effectively resolved?

Effective conflict resolution within a team often starts with open communication. This can be facilitated by having regular team meetings where everyone has the opportunity to voice their thoughts.

Another key strategy is to focus on the issue rather than the individuals involved. In some cases, involving a neutral third party, such as a team leader or mediator, can help to facilitate the resolution process. This can help team members feel heard and valued and encourage them to work together harmoniously.

Have you ever learned something valuable about yourself through working with others?

Absolutely. One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned through working with others is the importance of adaptability. In a team setting, circumstances can change rapidly. I’ve come to realise that being flexible and open to change is crucial not only for the success of the project but also for personal growth.

Lesson 168: A time when you worked with others✍️(A common job interview question!)

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This week’s IELTS Part 2 cue card is also a common question in job interviews. (Click here to engage another prompt that is also commonly asked in interviews.)

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

Describe a time when you worked with others. You should say:
-what you were doing
-when this occurred
-who you were working with
and explain how you felt about working with these people
🧑‍🎓Target language:

particularly(adv.)
-at a higher degree than is normal

“One member was particularly skilled in data analysis, another in graphic design, while the others focused on traditional marketing methods.”

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.)

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 memorable time when I worked with others was during a group project at university. We were tasked with developing a marketing strategy for a local startup as part of our final-year business course.”
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

Describe a time when you worked with others. You should say:
-what you were doing
-when this occurred
-who you were working with
and explain how you felt about working with these people

One memorable time when I worked with others was during a group project at university. We were tasked with developing a marketing strategy for a local startup as part of our final-year business course.

The project took place during my final semester, about a year ago. It involved conducting market research, analysing competitors and ultimately proposing a comprehensive marketing plan. My role within the group was to focus on the digital marketing aspects, including social media strategies and online advertising campaigns.

I worked closely with four other classmates, each of whom had a different area of expertise. One member was particularly skilled in data analysis, another in graphic design, while the others focused on traditional marketing methods. We all brought our unique strengths to the table, which made the collaboration very dynamic.

I felt very positive about working with this group of people. We had a great balance of skills and personalities, which allowed us to tackle the project from multiple angles. In the end, our hard work paid off, as we received top marks for our project. This experience not only strengthened my teamwork skills but also gave me confidence in my ability to work in groups.

Lesson 167: A party you attended🕺

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This week, you will train to speak about a party you attended. This is a band 9 response scripted in response to a real IELTS Speaking Part 2 cue card.

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

Talk about a party you attended at some point in the past. You should say:
-what the party was for
-why you attended this party
-what happened at the party
and explain how you felt about the party
🧑‍🎓Target language:

profoundly (adv.)
-in a significant or important way

“He was a mentor and a guide who profoundly influenced my academic and personal growth.”

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.)

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!🗣️📲

“An important party I attended in the past was a surprise retirement celebration for my favourite university professor, Dr Ken Williams. The party honoured Dr Williams’ remarkable career and contributions to the field of literature over the past 40 years.”
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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

Talk about a party you attended at some point in the past. You should say:
-what the party was for
-why you attended this party
-what happened at the party
and explain how you felt about the party

An important party I attended in the past was a surprise retirement celebration for my favourite university professor, Dr Ken Williams. The party honoured Dr Williams’ remarkable career and contributions to the field of literature over the past 40 years. This event took place about a year ago in the lobby of my professor’s university department and was organised by his colleagues and former students.

I attended this party because Dr Williams was more than just a professor to me. He was a mentor and a guide who profoundly influenced my academic and personal growth. Being part of this celebration was my way of showing appreciation for everything he had done for us.

The party itself was an unforgettable experience. The evening began with a heartfelt speech by the dean, followed by a series of tributes from former students and colleagues. There was a slideshow highlighting his career achievements and memorable moments from his teaching years.

Reflecting on this experience, I feel incredibly honoured and grateful to have been a part of such a special occasion. The party was a beautiful tribute to a remarkable individual who had made a lasting impact on so many lives. It was not only a great celebration but also a reminder of the importance of appreciating those who inspire us.

Lesson 166: An educational experience that impacted you professionally 🧑‍🎓

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This week, you will train to speak about your education. This is a great exercise to help with job interviews in English as well. Speaking at length about your education is not uncommon when interviewing with a potential employer.

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

Talk about an important educational experience you had that impacted you as a person or a professional. You should say:
-what the experience was
-when you had this experience
-how this experience impacted you
-and how you feel about this experience
🧑‍🎓Target language:

keen on
-interested in

“I am also sincerely keen on pursuing computer science as a career.”

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.)

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!🗣️📲

“An important educational experience that impacted me professionally was a first-year university course I took in computer programming. This experience took place during my first semester at university around four years ago.”
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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

Talk about an important educational experience you had that impacted you as a person or a professional. You should say:
-what the experience was
-when you had this experience
-how this experience impacted you
-and how you feel about this experience

An important educational experience that impacted me professionally was a first-year university course I took in computer programming. This experience took place during my first semester at university around four years ago.

The course was an introduction to the fundamentals of Java programming. It covered essential concepts such as object-oriented programming and a variety of data structures. Initially, I enrolled in the class because I had a general interest in technology, but I had little experience with programming. As the semester progressed, I found myself increasingly fascinated by the logical and creative aspects of coding.

Academically, it opened my eyes to the world of computer science. This newfound interest led me to pursue further courses in computer science, and I ultimately ended up changing my major to the subject. I now am a very skilled programmer and have built several programs that are quite popular online. I am also sincerely keen on pursuing computer science as a career.

Reflecting on this experience, I feel immensely grateful and inspired. The course not only expanded my academic and career prospects but also contributed significantly to my personal growth.

Lesson 165: Celebrities📸

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This week, you will train for Part 3 of the exam. The topic this week is ‘celebrities’.

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

Part 3 Questions

What qualities do you think are important for an actor or actress to be successful?
Do you think celebrities have a responsibility to be role models?
How has the film industry changed over the years in your country?
In what ways do celebrities impact people’s behaviour and attitudes?
Do you believe celebrities should speak out on political issues?
🧑‍🎓Target language:

shed light on
-raise awareness of something

“Given their large platform, they can shed light on important causes and bring attention to underrepresented voices.”

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.)

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!🗣️📲

“To be successful, an actor or actress firstly needs to have talent. They must possess the ability to convey emotions authentically and connect with the audience. Versatility is equally important, as the best actors can seamlessly adapt to a wide range of roles. Moreover, dedication and a strong work ethic are essential. The film industry is highly competitive and demands resilience in the face of rejection.”
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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

What qualities do you think are important for an actor or actress to be successful?

To be successful, an actor or actress firstly needs to have talent. They must possess the ability to convey emotions authentically and connect with the audience. Versatility is equally important, as the best actors can seamlessly adapt to a wide range of roles. Moreover, dedication and a strong work ethic are essential. The film industry is highly competitive and demands resilience in the face of rejection.

Do you think celebrities have a responsibility to be role models?

Yes, I do believe celebrities have a responsibility to be role models. Given their significant visibility, their actions and words can have a profound impact on their followers, especially young people. By promoting positive behaviour, such as kindness and hard work, celebrities can inspire their fans to adopt similar values. Moreover, as public figures, they have a platform to address important social issues and advocate for positive change.

How has the film industry changed over the years in your country?

The film industry in my country has undergone significant changes over the years. Technological advancements have fueled a lot of this change. For example, digital filmmaking and special effects have transformed the way movies are made and experienced. There has also been a noticeable shift towards innovative storytelling techniques. For instance, when I was a kid, movies had very simple and predictable plots. These days, however, movies often have unforeseen twists or character backstories that help deepen the viewer’s understanding of the plot. Additionally, the industry has become more inclusive and diverse. It’s now not uncommon for movies in my country to include a variety of cultures and ethnicities.

In what ways do celebrities impact people’s behaviour and attitudes?

I think their influence is particularly evident in areas such as fashion and lifestyle choices. For example, when a celebrity endorses a product or adopts a particular style, it often leads to widespread emulation among their fans. Celebrities can also shape public discourse on important issues. I remember a famous celebrity in my country once publicly shared their struggles with depression, and this led to much greater awareness of the importance of mental health. I guess it’s safe to say that what celebrities say and do in the public eye can have major impact on people’s behaviour and attitudes.

Do you believe celebrities should speak out on political issues?

I believe celebrities should have the right to speak out on political issues, just like any other citizen. Given their large platform, they can shed light on important causes and bring attention to underrepresented voices. However, it is crucial for celebrities to be well-informed and considerate when discussing political matters. Passing on misinformation could have dire consequences for society.

Lesson 164: An actor/actress you admire🤩

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This week, you will train to respond to a Part 2 cue card that asks your to speak about an actor or actress you admire. As always, this band 9 sample response was scripted by an active IELTS examiner.

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

Describe an actor or actress you admire. You should say
-who he/she is
-what he/she looks like
-what kind of movies he/she appears in
and explain why you admire this actor/actress
🧑‍🎓Target language:

down to earth
-a person who is not pretentious

“Additionally, he has a reputation for being kind and generous to his fans and colleagues, and he comes across as a very down to earth person in interviews.”

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.)

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 actor I greatly admire is Tom Cruise. He is an internationally renowned actor and producer, known for his dedication to his craft and his impressive filmography.”
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

Describe an actor or actress you admire. You should say
-who he/she is
-what he/she looks like
-what kind of movies he/she appears in
and explain why you admire this actor/actress

One actor I greatly admire is Tom Cruise. He is an internationally renowned actor and producer, known for his dedication to his craft and his impressive filmography.

What more can I tell you about him? Tom Cruise is an American actor who has been a prominent figure in Hollywood for over three decades. Tom Cruise has a very distinctive appearance, and I think it’s safe to say most people would describe him as ‘handsome’. He is of average height and is known for his confident smile.

As for the movies he appears in, his films tend to span several different genres. I guess these days he is best known for roles in action films such as the Mission: Impossible series. However, he has also starred in dramatic movies like Jerry Maguire, Eyes Wide Shut and Minority Report, so I feel he is quite versatile in his acting.

There are several reasons why I admire Tom Cruise. Firstly, his willingness to push boundaries is truly inspiring. For example, he does a lot of his own stunts. I heard that several of the high-speed chases in the Mission: Impossible movies were carried out by him. Tom Cruise is also known for his professionalism and work ethic on set, which I think is admirable. Additionally, he has a reputation for being kind and generous to his fans and colleagues, and he comes across as a very down to earth person in interviews.

Lesson 163: Neighbours🏘️

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This week, you will train to answer Part 1 questions about the topic of ‘neighbours’. As always, this sample response was scripted by an active IELTS examiner.

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

Part 1 questions

Where are you from?
Do you live in a big city or a small town?
Do you live in a quiet or busy area?
Let’s talk about neighbours. Do you have any neighbours?
Do you know your neighbours well?
How long have you been neighbours with these people?
Do you consider yourself a good neighbour?
🧑‍🎓Target language:

metropolis
-a very large and densely populated city

“It’s a bustling metropolis known for its advanced technology, rich culture and vibrant lifestyle.”

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.)

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 live in a relatively busy area of Tokyo. It’s a commercial district with a lot of shops, restaurants and offices, which means there’s always a lot of activity and movement throughout the day.”
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 Tokyo, Japan. It’s a bustling metropolis known for its advanced technology, rich culture and vibrant lifestyle.

Do you live in a big city or a small town?

I currently live in a big city. Tokyo is one of the largest cities in the world, with a population of over 13 million people.

Do you live in a quiet or busy area?

I live in a relatively busy area of Tokyo. It’s a commercial district with a lot of shops, restaurants and offices, which means there’s always a lot of activity and movement throughout the day.

Let’s talk about neighbours. Do you have any neighbours?

Yes, I do have neighbours. Living in an apartment building means that I’m surrounded by several other residents on the same floor and throughout the building.

Do you know your neighbours well?

I wouldn’t say I know them very well, but we are on friendly terms. We exchange greetings regularly and occasionally have brief conversations when we meet in the common areas or elevator.

How long have you been neighbours with these people?

I’ve been living in my current apartment for about three years now, so I’ve been neighbours with most of these people for the same duration.

Do you consider yourself a good neighbour?

Yes, I believe I am a good neighbour. I make sure to be considerate of others by keeping noise levels down, maintaining a tidy living space, and being polite and respectful in my interactions. I think these small actions contribute to a positive living environment for everyone.

Thank you.