Repeat After Me! Improve your IELTS Speaking score through speech shadowing!

Author: Ryan

  • Lesson 155: An appliance you use daily🔌

    This week, you will train to speak about an appliance that you use every day in your home. This could be a washing machine, microwave, food processor or some other electric machine you use to carry out a household task. In the model, the candidate chooses to speak about a coffee maker.

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

    Part 2 Cue Card

    Talk about an appliance that is used daily in your home. You should say
    -when you bought it
    -who in your home uses this appliance the most
    -how this appliance is useful to you
    and give some advice about this type of appliance
    🧑‍🎓Target language:

    frequenting (verb)
    -visiting often

    “Its convenience saves us considerable time and money compared to frequenting coffee shops.”

    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 going to talk about an appliance my family and I use every day in our home, and that’s our trusty coffee maker. We got it approximately two years ago when we moved into our current residence.”
    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

    Talk about an appliance that is used daily in your home. You should say
    -when you bought it
    -who in your home uses this appliance the most
    -how this appliance is useful to you
    and give some advice about this type of appliance

    I’m going to talk about an appliance my family and I use every day in our home, and that’s our trusty coffee maker. We got it approximately two years ago when we moved into our current residence.

    I live with my parents and out of all of us, I would say that I’m the primary user of this appliance. As an avid coffee drinker, I rely on it to kickstart my mornings and keep me energised throughout the day. My mother and father do use it from time to time, but they definitely don’t use it as much as I do.

    Our coffee maker is useful because it greatly simplifies the process of making coffee. Before we got this appliance, I would have to manually boil the water and strain the coffee into a cup. With the coffee maker, all I have to do is add water, a paper filter and some coffee grinds and the coffee maker does the rest in about 10 minutes. Its convenience saves us considerable time and money compared to frequenting coffee shops.

    For those considering purchasing a coffee maker, I would offer a few pieces of advice. Firstly, invest in a model that aligns with your preferences and lifestyle, whether it’s a basic drip machine or a more sophisticated espresso maker. Secondly, prioritise quality over price. Buying a durable coffee maker will save you from having to replace a cheap one every few years. And lastly, don’t underestimate the importance of regular cleaning to ensure optimal performance.

    I have to say that our coffee maker is no longer just a household appliance. It’s a valuable tool that has enhanced our daily lives in more ways than one.

  • Lesson 154: Transportation🚇

    This week’s lesson examines the topic of ‘transportation’. These questions were taken from a recent IELTS exam and –as always– the suggested responses were written by a former IELTS Speaking exam at the band 9 level.

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

    Part 1 Questions

    Do you work or study?
    Where are you from?
    What type of job do you have?
    Is it easy to find a job in your hometown?
    Let’s talk about transportation. What type of transportation did you use to get to your test centre today?
    Do you usually use this form of transportation?
    Are there any forms of transportation you prefer not to use?
    🧑‍🎓Target language:

    on the spot
    -without any delay

    “They gave me the job on the spot!”

    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 actually do both at the moment. I study business administration and am currently working at a small cafe near my apartment.”
    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

    Do you work or study?

    I actually do both at the moment. I study business administration and am currently working at a small cafe near my apartment.

    Where are you from?

    I’m from this city, London. I’m very much a proud Londoner, and to me London is a place that will always feel like home.

    What type of job do you have?

    My job is not very exciting. I wash dishes in the cafe I was mentioning. It’s really just a job to help fund my schooling.

    Is it easy to find a job in your hometown?

    I think it depends on what you’re looking for. Securing employment in London can be competitive in specialised fields, but other industries are desperately in need of workers. For example, I got my job at the cafe just by asking whether they were hiring. They gave me the job on the spot! So I think the time and effort required to find a job really is relevant to the type of work a person is pursuing.

    Let’s talk about transportation. What type of transportation did you use to get to your test centre today?

    Today, I used the subway to reach this test center. In London, we lovingly call it ‘The Tube’ and its known for its punctuality, cleanliness and extensive coverage of the city.

    Do you usually use this form of transportation?

    Yes, I frequently rely on the Tube for my daily commute. Its reliability and efficiency make it my preferred mode of transportation for navigating the city’s busy streets and reaching my destination in a timely manner.

    Are there any forms of transportation you prefer not to use?

    While I appreciate the convenience of most transportation options available in London, there are certain forms I tend to avoid, such as buses. During peak hours, the buses in London are way too crowded for comfort. I’m also not a fan of taxis. I just find them overpriced and not much faster than other transportation types. Those would be the two I’d most prefer not to use.

    Thank you.

  • Lesson 153: Water-based activities🏊

    This week’s lesson looks at Part 3 questions that extend from last week’s cue card.

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

    Part 3 Questions
    What water-based activities are popular in your country?
    What are some safety precautions people should take when doing activities near water?
    Is boating a safe water activity?
    Do people in your country like to travel by boat?
    Do you have rivers and lakes in your country?
    Do the factories in your town affect its water?
    🧑‍🎓Target language:

    jeopardise
    -put someone or something at risk

    “Townspeople are concerned industrial discharge and runoff could harm wildlife and possibly even jeopardise public health.”

    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!🗣️📲

    “Hmm in my country, along the coast, activities such as swimming, surfing and snorkeling are very popular. Inland, our lakes and rivers attract people who are interested in fishing, kayaking and leisurely boating.”
    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

    We have been talking about water, and I would like to ask you a few more questions about this topic. What water-based activities are popular in your country?

    Hmm in my country, along the coast, activities such as swimming, surfing and snorkeling are very popular. Inland, our lakes and rivers attract people who are interested in fishing, kayaking and leisurely boating. Water-based activities are actually quite central to our culture, especially during the warmer months, and people like to use them as a convenient excuse to socialise.

    What are some safety precautions people should take when doing activities near water?

    First and foremost, individuals should learn some essential swimming skills. Even if they are good swimmers, they should also wear appropriate flotation devices, particularly in deep waters. Additionally, people should only do water-based activities in properly designated areas. For example, it would be very unsafe to swim alone in areas that are not patrolled by lifeguards. A final precaution would be to keep abreast of weather forecasts. By adhering to these precautions, individuals can safeguard themselves and others while doing water-based activities.

    Is boating a safe water activity?

    Boating, when undertaken with adherence to safety protocols, can indeed be a safe and enjoyable water activity. However, it is imperative that boaters use life jackets to hedge the risks associated with capsising. Furthermore, following navigational rules, such as observing speed limits, is crucial for accident prevention.

    Do people in your country like to travel by boat?

    Yes. It’s not nearly as popular as land-based transportation, but people nevertheless still love to travel by boat when they have some free time. I think the main motivator for this is that it allows them to take a break from their everyday routine.

    Do you have rivers and lakes in your country?

    Yes, rivers and lakes are abundant in my country. Rivers meander through the valleys and often connect to the lakes. They’re all quite scenic and filled with all sorts of animal life.

    Do the factories in your town affect its water?

    The impact of factories on water quality is an ongoing concern in many towns, including mine. Townspeople are concerned industrial discharge and runoff could harm wildlife and possibly even jeopardise public health. We’ve pushed our municipal government to regulate industrial activities, and today there is greater public awareness of the waste-types these factories produce.

    Thank you.

  • Lesson 152: A profession done in or near water🌊

    This week, you will train to speak about a profession that is related to water, such as a fisherman or ship captain.

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

    Describe a profession you know that is done near or in water. You should say:
    -What the profession is
    -Where it is typically done
    -Why it is important
    and say what skills or qualifications are required to do this job
    🧑‍🎓Target language:

    firsthand
    -from personal experience

    “Others spend a considerable amount of time diving underwater to observe marine life firsthand.”

    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!🗣️📲

    “The profession I want to talk about is that of a marine biologist. Marine biologists are scientists who study life in the oceans and other saltwater environments. They conduct research to understand marine organisms – their behaviours, habitats and ecosystems.”
    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 profession you know that is done near or in water. You should say:
    -What the profession is
    -Where it is typically done
    -Why it is important
    and say what skills or qualifications are required to do this job

    The profession I want to talk about is that of a marine biologist. Marine biologists are scientists who study life in the oceans and other saltwater environments. They conduct research to understand marine organisms – their behaviours, habitats and ecosystems.

    Marine biologists typically work in or near water bodies such as oceans, seas and coral reefs. Some may work in laboratories analysing samples collected from the field, while others spend a considerable amount of time diving underwater to observe marine life firsthand. They may also work on research vessels, coastal facilities, or even aquariums and marine parks.

    This profession is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, marine biologists play a vital role in understanding and conserving marine biodiversity. By studying marine ecosystems, they can identify threats to various species, as well as develop strategies for their protection. Additionally, their research contributes to our understanding of climate change, which is a significant issue facing our planet today.

    To become a marine biologist, one typically needs a strong educational background in biology. I am not a marine biologist, but I would assume this profession requires obtaining a bachelor’s degree followed by further studies at the graduate level. Practical experience through internships or volunteer work is probably highly valued in this field, too. Other skills key to becoming a marine biologist would include having excellent observation skills, critical thinking and a passion for the life forms that live in salt water.

    I feel marine biologists contribute significantly to our understanding of the oceans and they play a crucial role in conserving these precious ecosystems for future generations.

    Thank you.

  • Lesson 151: Drawing🎨

    This week’s lesson pushes you to train to speak about a common hobby: drawing. As you will hear in the sample, the candidate isn’t super enthusiastic about drawing, and they skillfully use language choices to express this.

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

    Part 1 Questions

    Do you work or study?
    Why did you choose this job?
    Let’s talk about drawing. Do you like drawing?
    What do you draw?
    Are there benefits to drawing?
    Is it important to teach children how to draw?
    Is it important for adults to be able to draw?
    🧑‍🎓Target language:

    doodle
    -a rough drawing made absentmindedly

    “I might doodle an animal one day and a busy city street the next.”

    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.

    Post yourself saying this into your Whatsapp group!🗣️📲

    “I do draw on occasion, and I would say I like it for the most part. The act of sketching allows me to unwind and unleash my creativity, but I have to admit I’m not particularly talented at it.”
    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

    Do you work or study?

    I work as a server at a popular dining establishment in the heart of the city. My role involves providing exceptional customer service, taking orders and ensuring a pleasant dining experience for patrons.

    Why did you choose this job?

    The decision to pursue a career in the restaurant industry was influenced by my passion for hospitality and interpersonal interaction. I thrive in environments where I can engage with people from diverse backgrounds and cater to their needs with warmth and professionalism. Let’s talk about drawing.

    Do you like drawing?

    I do draw on occasion, and I would say I like it for the most part. The act of sketching allows me to unwind and unleash my creativity, but I have to admit I’m not particularly talented at it.

    What do you draw?

    I don’t usually plan out my drawings ahead of time, so they tend to encompass a wide array of subjects. I might doodle an animal one day and a busy city street the next. I think the last time I drew something it was a cross section of a house, where you could see the rooms inside and what was going on.

    Are there benefits to drawing?

    Drawing offers a multitude of benefits beyond its artistic appeal. Engaging in drawing promotes mindfulness and relaxation, and I feel it serves as a therapeutic outlet for stress relief and self-expression. Moreover, it enhances cognitive skills such as observation, spatial reasoning and problem-solving, and this can encourage mental agility and creative thinking.

    Is it important to teach children how to draw?

    Yes, it certainly is. Nurturing children’s drawing skills is essential for their holistic development and self-discovery. For example, drawing encourages imagination, fine motor skills and visual literacy, and I believe these skills provide a foundation for creative expression and critical thinking.

    Is it important for adults to be able to draw?

    I wouldn’t say it is critically important, but it can be a useful skill to have in certain personal and professional contexts. Being capable of sketching concepts –such as business ideas or flooring layouts in an office– enhances communication, problem-solving and innovation. As I mentioned before, it could be a source of relaxation for certain people, too.

    Thank you.

  • Lesson 150: Learning English💂

    We’ve reached 150 lessons!🎉 This week’s topic is very central to the base theme of this entire website: learning English!

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

    Part 3 Questions
    Do you think the way people learn English today is the same as in the past?
    Is it easy for children to learn new languages?
    Is it easier for children to learn languages than adults?
    What is the importance of language in a culture?
    Can people understand a culture without learning its language?
    Is it important to protect small language groups?
    🧑‍🎓Target language:

    in my own case
    -a phrase used to cue a personal example

    “For example, in my own case, I found certain English pronunciation patterns challenging because these sounds do not exist in my language!”

    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.

    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.

    Post yourself saying this into your Whatsapp group!🗣️📲

    “No, the approach to learning English has evolved significantly. With technology and globalisation, access to diverse resources like online courses has enhanced the learning process. Learners are no longer constrained to classrooms. There are now dynamic approaches that allow people to train from anywhere in the world and in a variety of settings.”
    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

    We have been talking about languages and I would like to ask you a few more questions about this topic. Do you think the way people learn English today is the same as in the past?

    No, the approach to learning English has evolved significantly. With technology and globalisation, access to diverse resources like online courses has enhanced the learning process. Learners are no longer constrained to classrooms. There are now dynamic approaches that allow people to train from anywhere in the world and in a variety of settings.

    Is it easy for children to learn new languages?

    Yes, children have a natural aptitude for language acquisition due to their adaptable brains and exposure to language-rich environments. Also, unlike adults, I think children are less inhibited by the fear of making mistakes, and this allows them to experiment with language freely.

    Is it easier for children to learn languages than adults?

    Generally, yes. As I mentioned, a child’s lack of inhibitions allows for easier experimentation with grammar, vocabulary and pronunciation, and this willingness to experiment encourages them to learn. Children have also not developed fluency in any language, so they have no preprogrammed speaking patterns that are working against them. For example, in my own case, I found certain English pronunciation patterns challenging because these sounds do not exist in my language!

    What is the importance of language in a culture?

    Language is integral to culture. It serves as a means of communication, expression and identity. Language also reflects the evolution of a society, and by this I mean it captures the collective wisdom and values of the people that speak it. Some sayings in one language may be completely nonsensical in another, and I feel this is clear evidence of how central language is to culture.

    Can people understand a culture without learning its language?

    I don’t think people can gain a deep understanding, no. While some insights can be learned through secondary sources, a deep understanding of a culture requires knowing the language. Language is an expression of the values of a culture, and it shows how the people of that culture solve problems and think about the world. So I guess that is to say that any quote unquote ‘understanding’ someone claims to have about a culture is very surface-level if they don’t know anything about the language.

    Is it important to protect small language groups?

    Absolutely. Small language groups represent linguistic diversity and cultural heritage. They embody unique ways of perceiving the world. Efforts to protect and revitalise endangered languages are crucial to preserving cultural identity and honouring the contributions of every culture to human civilization.

    Thank you.

  • Lesson 149: A person from another country that speaks your language well🎎

    This week’s lesson requires the candidate describe a person that speaks their native language well.

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

    Describe a person you know from another country who speaks your language fluently. You should say
    -who he/she is
    -what country he/she is from
    -how he/she learned your language
    -and explain how you feel about this person
    🧑‍🎓Target language:

    set apart
    -something special or distinguished

    “What truly sets Maria apart is her dedication to learning Japanese.”

    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.

    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.

    Post yourself saying this into your Whatsapp group!🗣️📲

    “I’m going to talk about a remarkable individual named Maria, who speaks my native language, Japanese, fluently. Maria is from Spain and first encountered Japanese during her university studies in Barcelona, where she developed a profound interest in Japanese culture and language.”
    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 person you know from another country who speaks your language fluently. You should say
    -who he/she is
    -what country he/she is from
    -how he/she learned your language
    -and explain how you feel about this person

    I’m going to talk about a remarkable individual named Maria, who speaks my native language, Japanese, fluently. Maria is from Spain and first encountered Japanese during her university studies in Barcelona, where she developed a profound interest in Japanese culture and language.

    What truly sets Maria apart is her dedication and unconventional approach to learning Japanese. For example, instead of relying solely on textbooks and classroom instruction, she sought out authentic Japanese materials, such as novels, podcasts and films. Additionally, before she moved to Japan, Maria actively engaged with native Japanese speakers through language exchange programmes and online communities. She now lives in Tokyo and seamlessly integrates into Japanese society, displaying a level of cultural fluency that is rarely seen among foreign language learners.

    As someone who grew up in Japan, I can say with confidence that Maria is truly fluent in Japanese. Her pronunciation is near-native, and she effortlessly navigates complex grammatical structures with skill. Her proficiency in Japanese fills me with admiration and respect, and I feel truly inspired when I am around her. Her commitment to mastering the language reflects a genuine love for Japanese culture and a willingness to embrace new challenges.

    I feel very lucky to know an amazing person like Maria. Just being around her motivates my own language pursuits!

    Thank you.

  • Lesson 148: Your village and native language💬

    This week’s ‘repeat after me’ lesson uses questions from Part 1 of a recent IELTS Speaking exam.

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

    Part 1 Questions
    Do you work or study?
    Do you live in a village, town or city?
    What do you like about your village?
    Is your village a good place to raise children?
    What languages are children taught in schools?
    Is music used to teach the native language in your country?
    Whose duty is it to teach the native language to children?
    🧑‍🎓Target language:

    deep-rooted (adjective)
    Something that is firmly established.

    “One aspect that I like about my village is its deep-rooted traditions and strong sense of community.”

    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.

    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.

    Post yourself saying this into your Whatsapp group!🗣️📲

    “One aspect that I like about my village is its deep-rooted traditions and strong sense of community. We have annual festivals for a variety of occasions, and I like how these festivals bring a sense unity and belonging. My village is also just a really beautiful place. It has fields and mountains and cherry blossoms that come out in the spring.”
    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

    Do you work or study?

    Currently, I am a student. I am pursuing a degree in Agricultural Science at the local university.

    Do you live in a village, town, or city?

    I live in a charming village in the countryside of Japan.

    What do you like about your village?

    One aspect that I like about my village is its deep-rooted traditions and strong sense of community. We have annual festivals for a variety of occasions, and I like how these festivals bring a sense unity and belonging. My village is also just a really beautiful place. It has fields and mountains and cherry blossoms that come out in the spring.

    Is your village a good place to raise children?

    It certainly is. The safety of our village makes it an ideal environment for raising children. There are clean parks, safe streets and close-knit neighbourhoods. Children are safe to explore and play freely. Moreover, the local schools prioritise holistic education, instilling values of respect and cooperation from a young age.

    What languages are children taught in schools?

    In our schools, children primarily learn Japanese, which is our native language. Additionally, English is introduced as a compulsory subject from elementary school onwards to prepare students for global opportunities.

    Is music used to teach the native language in your country?

    Yes, music is integrated into language education. Japanese nursery rhymes and traditional songs are often used to teach language fundamentals, enhance pronunciation and deepen cultural understanding. It makes the learning process more engaging and memorable for students of all ages.

    Whose duty is it to teach the native language to children?

    The responsibility of teaching the native language primarily rests with our educational institutions. They are equipped with innovative teaching methods and resources to impart language skills effectively. However, I believe parents also play a crucial role in nurturing language development at home. They can do a lot to foster a child’s love for our rich cultural heritage and language.

  • Lesson 147: Relaxation in your country🎣

    This week’s Part 3 model continues from last week’s cue card on the topic of ‘relaxation’.

    Step 1: Listen to the full sample band 9 response.

    Step 2: Tune in to this week’s podcast episode.

    Step 3: Complete the full exercise.

    Step 4: Read through the below transcript and make note of the new language you encountered this week.

    Step 5: Complete your five speaking exercises with your Whatsapp instructor. Here is the first exercise (due Monday night) :

    Chat on WhatsApp

    Transcript

    Are there many places for relaxation in your country that are well-known?

    Yes. Brazil has numerous well-known relaxation destinations that cater to a variety of tastes. There are natural landscapes, such as the beaches and forests in Rio de Janeiro, but also cultural spots like Sao Paulo Cathedral and various museums.

    What places for relaxation are popular with people in your country?

    I would say the beaches rank highly among locals as popular places for relaxation. Beach life offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Additionally, relaxation services such as those found in gyms and spas have gained popularity in recent years. I think people see these services as rejuvenating and good for physical health and mental well-being, and this is why they have become so popular.

    Why do people like to relax in different places?

    I believe this is influenced by a number of different factors. Some individuals gravitate towards natural settings like beaches and parks due to the calming effect of nature and the opportunity to get away from other people. Others seek relaxation in urban environments, and I think these personality types are more drawn to the vibrant energy that you can only find in cities. Ultimately, I think each person’s pathway to true relaxation is unique.

    Do you think relaxation is important?

    Without a doubt. Relaxation is paramount for maintaining overall health and well-being. Today’s fast-paced world is characterised by relentless work schedules and constant connectivity. Thus, taking time to unwind not only alleviates stress but also promotes mental clarity. I also think relaxation is important because it fosters creativity, enhances productivity and improves the overall quality of a person’s life.

    In your opinion, should employers pay for the relaxation of their employees?

    No. While some organisations may offer perks such as wellness programmes or flexible work arrangements, expecting employers to finance all relaxation activities is not practical for every business. Instead, employers can support employee well-being by fostering a supportive work environment and promoting healthy work practices.

    Thank you.

  • Lesson 146: A relaxing place🥰

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

    Describe a place you often go to relax. You should say
    -where this place is
    -why you go there to relax
    -when you usually go there
    -and explain how you feel when you are there

    Step 1: Listen to this week’s sample.

    Step 2: Tune in to this week’s IELTSCast episode and practise saying a few sentences from the sample.

    Step 3: Work through the full exercise.

    Step 4: Read through the below transcript and note the language that was new or challenging to you this week.

    Step 5: Submit your speech samples to your Whatsapp group. Below is the speech sample for Monday:

    Chat on WhatsApp

    Transcript

    Describe a place you often go to relax. You should say
    -where this place is
    -why you go there to relax
    -when you usually go there
    -and explain how you feel when you are there

    Well, one place I frequently visit to unwind is a quiet public garden located on the outskirts of my city. 

    This garden is situated about 20 kilometres from my residence, and I believe it’s maintained by a nearby church community. It is never busy and, to my mind, it is relaxing because it is a perfect coupling of natural beauty and tranquility. Whenever I go there, the garden is lush and full of colour and the birds are chirping in and around the nearby trees.

    I typically visit this garden during weekends, which allows me to disconnect from the demands of work and immerse myself in nature. If I can make it there in the morning, the sunlight filters through the tree leaves and this creates a really relaxing atmosphere. This coupled with the refreshing scent of flowers is therapeutic and helps me recharge for the coming workweek.

    As for how I feel, when I am in this serene environment, a profound sense of tranquility washes over me. The stress and tension accumulated during the week seem to dissipate as I absorb the beauty of my surroundings. It’s a very calming experience, and I guess it is not a stretch to say I feel as though I am one with nature. I feel absolutely amazing when I’m there.

    I guess to wrap up, I would say this garden is much more than just a place. It is an escape from ordinary life and I am very happy it has become an integral part of my routine.