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

Author: Ryan

  • Lesson 125: Traditional celebrations in the modern world🎏

    This week, you will train to speak about the subject of ‘celebrations’.

    Step 1: Start this week’s lesson by listening to the model response.

    Step 2: Now listen to this week’s podcast episode and practise saying a few sentences from the model.

    Step 3: For those with paid subscriptions, work through this week’s full exercise.

    Step 4: Read through the below transcript and note all new language you have experienced today in your notebook. Make an effort to use this language in your own day-to-day speaking.

    Step 5: Submit your speaking sample to your Whatsapp group. Allow 24 hours for a response.

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    Transcript

    In your culture, what are some traditional celebrations or events that are widely celebrated?

    In Indonesian culture, there are several traditional celebrations that hold significant importance. One of the most prominent festivals is the International Jazz Festival of Jakarta, which typically involves live performances by renowned jazz artists from around the world. Another noteworthy celebration is Independence Day, which provides an opportunity for the entire Indonesian community to come together. It is a time for family gatherings and various cultural activities.

    How have these traditional celebrations changed over the years?

    I think one of the most notable changes is the modernisation of customs and traditions. For instance, the International Jazz Festival of Jakarta has incorporated modern music technologies and global jazz trends into its performances. Independence Day has seen an increase in community engagement through social media and digital platforms.

    Do you think it’s important to preserve cultural traditions in today’s fast-paced world?

    Absolutely. I believe it’s essential to preserve cultural traditions in today’s fast-paced world. These traditions serve as a link to our heritage and help us maintain our cultural identity. Furthermore, cultural traditions often impart valuable life lessons, instill a sense of respect for diversity and foster a deep appreciation for our roots.

    Do you think celebrations and events have become more globalised in recent years?

    Yes, I do. With the advancement of technology and increased connectivity, the world has become a smaller place. As a result, people from different cultures and backgrounds have greater exposure to celebrations and events from around the globe, and this helps to highlight some common values between all cultures on Earth. For instance, Teachers’ Day is now celebrated in most countries around the world. This globalisation of celebrations can foster a sense of global unity among people from diverse backgrounds. While this global trend is positive in many ways, I think it’s also important to strike a balance between global influences and the preservation of local traditions.

    Thank you.

  • Lesson 124: A traditional celebration or event in your culture🌠

    This lesson pushes you to train to speak about culture. Work through the exercises and remember that you can always refer to the transcript if you need support. Here is the cue card seen in this exercise:

    Describe a traditional celebration or event in your culture. Please say:

    -what the event is

    -when and where it takes place

    -why it is important

    -and share your personal experiences or memories related to this celebration or event

    Step 1: Listen to this week’s full band 9 model Part 2 response.

    Step 2: Try this week’s podcast episode. The episode includes a few ‘repeat after me’ sentences from the full exercise.

    Step 3: Work your way through this week’s full exercise. The video contains prompts to help support you if you don’t catch everything that is said.

    Step 4: Read the below transcript. Do you understand every word and phrase? If not, be proactive. Post a comment. Check a dictionary. Make sure you note anything you learn in your journal.

    Step 5: When you are fully familiar with the language, complete this week’s speech samples and post them to your Whatsapp group.

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    Transcript

    Describe a traditional celebration or event in your culture. Please say:

    -what the event is

    -when and where it takes place

    -why it is important

    -and share your personal experiences or memories related to this celebration or event

    I’d like to talk about a traditional celebration in my culture, which is known as Eid al-Fitr. Eid al-Fitr is one of the most significant and widely celebrated festivals in Indonesia, marking the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting.

    The exact date of Eid al-Fitr varies each year based on the Islamic lunar calendar, and it’s a nationwide celebration in Indonesia. Families and communities come together to observe this festive occasion.

    The importance of Eid al-Fitr in Indonesian culture is immense. It signifies the spiritual and personal growth achieved during Ramadan. People focus on prayer, self-reflection and acts of charity, and the holiday is considered a time when families and friends come together to celebrate and strengthen their bonds. Additionally, it’s customary to carry out almsgiving to help those in need, ensuring that everyone can join in the celebrations.

    Personally, Eid al-Fitr holds a special place in my heart as well. I have fond memories of the preparations leading up to the festival. My family and I would start by cleaning our house, purchasing new clothes and preparing delicious traditional dishes. On the morning of Eid, we would attend a special prayer at the mosque, after which we would visit relatives and neighbours to exchange warm greetings and small gifts.

    To my mind, this festival exemplifies the rich cultural diversity and religious traditions of Indonesia and remains a vibrant and meaningful celebration in the country.

    Thank you.

  • Lesson 123: Meeting new people and making friends🫂

    ‘People’ is a very common general topic on the IELTS, and this week you will train to speak more clearly about it. This is a IELTS Speaking Part 1 exercise.

    Step 1: Listen to the full model. (By the way, if you didn’t know, all of these exercises are scripted at the band 9 level by practising examiners.)

    Step 2: This week’s podcast episode gives you the opportunity to practise saying a few lines from the sample. Remember to push yourself to sound as much like the model as possible.

    Step 3: Find 21 minutes to complete the full exercise. It can be helpful to revisit these exercises from time to time, too. (Click here if you do not yet have access to these full lessons.)

    Step 4: Look at the below transcript. Are there language items that are new to you? Did you have any particular challenges saying parts of the response? Note all of this in your journal.

    Step 5: Complete all five of this week’s speech samples and submit them to your instructor for feedback.

    Transcript

    Do you work or study?

    I’m a full-time university student, studying Business Management.

    What do you like to do in your free time?

    I enjoy reading, playing the guitar and staying active by going for walks and doing yoga.

    Do you enjoy meeting new people?

    Yes, I do. Meeting new people broadens my horizons and allows me to learn from their experiences.

    What sort of people do you most easily make friends with?

    I find it easiest to make friends with people who share similar interests and values. When we have common hobbies or beliefs, it provides a strong foundation for building a meaningful connection. Additionally, those who are open-minded, friendly and good listeners tend to be the people I naturally click with.

    Where is a good place to meet new people?

    There are several great places to meet new people, but I think community events and social gatherings are excellent opportunities. Whether it’s a local festival, a charity event or even a hobby club, these settings tend to attract like-minded individuals who are open to socialising and making new friends.

    In what situations is it difficult to make new friends?

    It can be challenging to make new friends when people are busy with work or studies. Also, in larger cities like Jakarta, busy lifestyles and cultural differences can make it harder to establish connections with strangers.

    Thank you.

  • Lesson 122: Board games and society🃏

    This is a lesson that trains you for Part 3 of the exam. In this lesson, you will examine the subject of ‘board games’ from a functional point of view.

    Part 1: Listen to the sample. There may be new words or phrases in this model, so try listening several times before consulting the below transcript.

    Part 2: The free podcast episode gives you a few ‘repeat after me’ sentences to start with. Work through this exercise to warm up for the longer, full exercise in Step 3.

    Part 3: Now try the full version of this exercise. Remember that it can be helpful to do these exercises more than once to help refine your pacing, intonation and overall accent.

    Part 4: Read through the below transcript. You could consider even printing it out to allow you to identify areas you want to target/review down the road. If you have any questions about the model, please post them as a comment on this lesson.

    Part 5: Complete all five of this week’s speaking exercises in your Whatsapp group. Your instructor will provide you feedback on each speaking sample within 24 hours of you sending it.

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    Transcript

    Why do you think games are popular at social gatherings and family events?

    I think they are popular because of their ability to foster a sense of camaraderie and engagement. They act as icebreakers, encouraging people to interact and bond over shared experiences…thereby breaking any initial awkwardness. Furthermore, games inject an element of fun and excitement into these gatherings, making them enjoyable for everyone involved.

    In what ways do games contribute to improving social skills and communication among people?

    I would say games encourage effective verbal and non-verbal communication, as players must explain rules and strategies. This enhances interpersonal communication skills by encouraging people to speak clearly and listen actively. Games also often involve teamwork and collaboration, which fosters a sense of cooperation and trust among participants. I would say these are the main ways in which games improve a person’s social skills.

    Some people argue that board games can be educational. What are your thoughts on this?

    I wholeheartedly agree with the notion that board games can be highly educational. Board games often incorporate various cognitive skills, including critical thinking, problem solving and strategic planning, and they often are explicitly designed for educational purposes, covering topics such as mathematics, history and language acquisition. For example, my nephew’s geography improved dramatically while playing the game Risk, which involves intercontinental battle between players on a world map.

    What types of board games do you believe will be popular in the future?

    Hmm I imagine future board games will integrate augmented reality or even virtual reality. Additionally, I think games could do a lot to promote themes of social responsibility, such as the importance of sustainability and environmental awareness. Ultimately, the future of board games will likely be shaped by the evolving interests and values of society, but I don’t think they’ll ever lose their appeal as a source of social interaction and entertainment.

    Thank you. That is the end of the speaking exam.

  • Lesson 121: A memorable game🎲

    This week’s lesson is for Part 2 of the IELTS Speaking exam. It examines the topic of a game that is memorable for you. Here is the cue card that is used:

    Describe a tabletop game or other game you have played. You should say:
    What the game was
    Who you played it with
    Where and when you played it
    And explain why it was a memorable game for you.

    Part 1: Listen to the model and make special note of any new language you come across. Try to listen without looking at the transcript to check how much of the language you understand or can interpret from context. If you still have some trouble understanding after listening several times, consult the below transcript and identify the challenging areas.

    Part 2: This to this week’s IELTSCast episode and practise saying a few of the lines from the response.

    Part 3: Below is the full exercise for this week. Work through this exercise to refine your speaking. These exercises can be long and challenging, and results may seem to take time, but remember that incremental progress occurs with each repeated phrase. Push yourself to sound as much like the model as you can.

    Part 4: Read through the transcript. If there are still areas that you find challenging (pronunciation, grammar, vocabulary use, etc), leave a comment asking for further explanation or support.

    Part 5: Post this week’s speaking samples to your Whatsapp group. Your instructor will provide you with personalized feedback.

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    Transcript

    Describe a tabletop game or other game you have played. You should say:
    What the game was
    Who you played it with
    Where and when you played it
    And explain why it was a memorable game for you.

    I’d like to share an experience I had playing a tabletop game called ‘Settlers of Catan.’ It was an incredibly memorable game for me, not only because of the game itself but also because of the people I played it with and the setting in which it took place.

    Settlers of Catan is a strategic board game that revolves around resource management and negotiation. It’s designed for three to four players, and each player assumes the role of a settler on the fictional island of Catan. The objective of the game is to build settlements, roads and cities while trading resources like wood, brick, ore, wheat and sheep with other players.

    I played this game with three close friends of mine – Sarah, Mark and James. We decided to have a game night at my apartment during summer vacation last year. It was a relaxing atmosphere, with dimmed lights and our favourite snacks and drinks within reach. We started the game just as the sun was setting, so the room was warm with the setting sunlight.

    What made this game so memorable for me was the intense competition and the genuine laughter it brought about. As the game progressed, we found ourselves making strategic alliances and clever trades, which sometimes led to unexpected betrayals and shifting alliances.

    Moreover, it was memorable because it allowed us to bond on a deeper level. We shared stories, exchanged banter, and had moments of genuine teamwork and rivalry. As the night turned into morning, we finally declared a winner, but it didn’t really matter who won or lost. What mattered was the quality time we spent together.

  • Lesson 120: Your study habits📚

    This Part 1 exercise shows you how to introduce yourself in IELTS Speaking. You will also examine a very common topic on the IELTS: your studies. As you can see, the candidate reports themselves to be a student and the examiner then asks questions pertaining to how the candidate studies and where the candidate most effectively studies.

    Step 1: Listen to the full sample to familiarise yourself with the language. At this point in the lesson, try to listen without looking at the transcript. Listening more than once is recommended.

    Step 2: Tune in to this week’s episode of IELTSCast. In this episode, you will have the opportunity to practise a few of the sentences from the response. Push yourself to sound as much like the model as possible.

    Step 3: Below is the full exercise. (If you do not yet have access to these exercises, click here to sign up.) Remember to note in your journal any challenging areas and/or new language you come across.

    Step 4: Read through the below transcript. Note any areas that you would like to review in the future. It can be helpful to print these transcripts out and attach them into your journal for future review.

    Step 5: Complete all of this week’s speech samples. Submit them to your instructor through Whatsapp and wait for feedback.

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    Transcript

    Can you tell me your full name, please?

    Of course, my full name is Ryan Higgins.

    What should I call you?

    You can just call me Ryan.

    Where are you from?

    I’m originally from a suburb of Bangkok in Thailand.

    Do you work or are you a student?

    I’m currently a student here in Liverpool. I’m pursuing my economics degree at the University of Liverpool.

    Where do you typically do your studying?

    I usually study in the university library, as it provides a quiet environment for concentration. Occasionally, I also study in my dorm room to change things up.

    Do you find it easier to study in certain environments?

    Yes, I definitely find it easier to study in quiet environments like the library or my dorm room. I find that the absence of distractions allows me to focus better on my studies and be more productive.

    What do you do on weekday evenings?

    On weekday evenings, I usually follow a routine that balances relaxation and productivity. I spend a few hours studying or working on assignments, and then I like to unwind by going for a jog or practicing some mindfulness exercises. Afterwards, I often enjoy a good book or catch up with friends over a video call to wind down before bedtime.

  • Lesson 119: Cybersecurity🛡️

    This week’s lesson looks at Part 3 questions on the theme of cybersecurity. The candidate is asked to share their opinions on the topic, and the conversation with the examiner evolves organically.

    Step 1: Listen to the full model. The vocabulary used in this Part 3 demonstration is less common than usual, so remember to re-listen to this sample several times to get a true feeling for how much of the language you can understand.

    Step 2: Listen to this week’s podcast episode and try the included sample exercise.

    Step 3: Work your way through the full exercise. As mentioned, this week uses less common language, so be sure to repeat portions of the exercise and consult the transcript if you need support. All questions can be posted as a comment to this lesson, too.

    Step 4: Read through the transcript again and make special note of all new language you have learned in this lesson. Remember that it is important to review your journal regularly to ensure you are retaining and including what you learn in your own day-to-day speaking.

    Step 5: Post your speech samples to your Whatsapp group. Your instructor will provide you with feedback within 24 hours of your submission.

    Chat on WhatsApp

    Transcript

    How do you think the use of electronic devices has changed the way people work compared to the past?

    The use of electronic devices has undeniably revolutionized the way people work compared to the past. Previously, work was primarily centred around physical locations, such as offices and factories, where employees were essentially tethered to specific workstations. However, with the advent of electronic devices work has become increasingly flexible and decentralised. Individuals can now work remotely and access vast amounts of information within seconds. This level of convenience and efficiency was unimaginable in the past.

    Are there any disadvantages to relying heavily on electronic devices for work-related tasks?

    Yes, there are. One of the primary concerns is the potential for digital distractions. With constant notifications, emails and social media, employees may find it challenging to maintain focus and productivity. Furthermore, the overuse of electronic devices can lead to health issues, such as eye strain and sedentary behaviour, which may contribute to long-term health problems.

    How has the advancement of technology influenced the types of jobs available in today’s workforce?

    The advancement of technology has had a profound impact on the types of jobs available in today’s workforce. Robotics and artificial intelligence have led to the automation of routine tasks, which has resulted in the need for completely new jobs in fields like data analysis and cybersecurity.

    Technology, for better or for worse, has also created the ‘gig’ economy, making freelance work and short-term contracts possible. This diversifying of the job market has required individuals continuously adapt and acquire new skills to remain competitive in the rapidly changing work environment.

    In what ways can people ensure the security and privacy of their data when using electronic devices for important work?

    There are several measures individuals can take to protect their data. Regularly updating software and applications is also critical, as updates often contain security patches that address vulnerabilities. Further, encrypting sensitive data and using secure connections can safeguard information from unauthorised access.

    Are there any ethical concerns related to the use of electronic devices for work?

    Indeed. For example, employers may use monitoring software to track employees’ activities. This of course raises questions about the extent to which such surveillance is ethical and respects employees’ privacy and personal space.

    Additionally, issues related to data privacy and confidentiality arise when handling sensitive customer or client information.

    A final ethical concern I can think of is the ‘digital divide,’ where some individuals have access to advanced electronic devices and the internet while others do not. As we were discussing earlier, so much of the workforce is now dependent on technology. Not having access to technology may mean some individuals do not have equitable access to job opportunities.

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

  • Lesson 118: An electronic device you used for important work🤳

    This week, we’re looking at a Part 2 cue card that requires you speak about a device you used for important work. Here is the cue card:

    Describe a time when you used an electronic device for some important work. You should say
    – what you did
    – when you did it
    – why you had to use your electronic device
    – and explain how you felt about this experience.

    Step 1: Listen to the full sample.

    Step 2: Listen to this week’s podcast episode and work through the free sample exercise.

    Step 3: Below is this week’s full exercise. Work through the exercise and remember to redo sections if the language is completely new or challenging.

    Step 4: Included below is the full transcript for this lesson. Read through it and note language items that you found challenging. Remember to attempt to include these noted items in your own day-to-day speaking.

    Step 5: You will be given five short speech exercises in your Whatsapp group. Submit your speech samples promptly and wait for feedback from your instructor.

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    Transcript

    Describe a time when you used an electronic device for some important work. You should say
    – what you did
    – when you did it
    – why you had to use your electronic device
    – and explain how you felt about this experience.

    I’d like to talk about a time when I used my laptop for an important task. About six months ago, I had to prepare a crucial presentation for my workplace. I work as a marketing manager in a multinational company, and this presentation was a key component of a pitch we were making to a potential client.

    I performed this task a day before the scheduled presentation. I remember it was a Sunday, and the presentation was to be held on Monday morning. I had known about the presentation for about a week in advance, but the busy nature of my job made it difficult to find time to work on the task.

    The reason I had to use my laptop was primarily for gathering data and creating visual aids. I relied heavily on my laptop to research the client’s industry trends and their competitors’ strategies, and to glean statistical data that could support our proposal. Additionally, I used presentation software on the device to design slides that would be both informative and visually appealing.

    Reflecting on this experience, I can say I felt a mixture of pressure, determination and gratitude. On one hand, I was aware of the significance of the presentation: it could potentially secure a lucrative deal for our company. On the other hand, the time constraint added an extra layer of stress that was honestly rather unpleasant. However, I embraced the challenge and saw it as an opportunity to showcase my skills and dedication. By the time I completed the presentation late into the night, I was not only proud of the outcome but also amazed at how much my device had helped to accelerate the task. I can’t imagine how long a task like this would take without the support of a laptop!

    Thank you.

  • Lesson 117: Computers🖥️

    This lesson examines a very common topic: computers. The model is structured around Part 1 questions that were recently seen on an actual IELTS Speaking exam.

    Step 1: Listen to the model and note any new language you come across.

    Step 2: Tune in to this week’s episode of IELTSCast and work through the free sample exercise.

    Step 3: Below is this week’s full exercise. Remember that it can be helpful to redo the exercise (or portions of the exercise) repeatedly to help further refine your speaking. Any questions you have can be posted as a comment on this lesson.

    Step 4: Read through the below transcript. It can be helpful to print lesson transcripts out for annotation purposes. Be sure to identify to yourself areas that are new or challenging so that you can work to include these items in your own day-to-day speaking.

    Step 5: Your Whatsapp instructor will post five speaking exercises to your group. Post your daily speech sample and look for your personalised feedback.

    Chat on WhatsApp

    Transcript

    Where do you live?

    I currently reside in Frankfurt, which is located in Germany. It’s a bustling city known for its diverse multicultural community.

    Do you work or are you a student?

    I’m a dedicated student at the University of Frankfurt, pursuing a degree in computer science. This academic journey is a vital step towards realising my passion for innovation in the technology sector.

    What is your favourite subject to study?

    Among the subjects I’m studying, I have a particular fondness for economics. Its intricate analysis of market dynamics and its impact on society intrigue me. I’m constantly motivated to delve deeper into the complexities of supply and demand, and how economic policies shape our world.

    You said that you are interested in technology, were you passionate about it from a young age?

    Yes, indeed. Since my childhood, I’ve harboured an unwavering fascination for technology. From experimenting with simple gadgets to immersing myself in programming, my passion for technology has been an integral part of my life’s journey.

    What do you prefer to use, a tablet or a computer, and why?

    While both tablets and computers have their merits, I tend to gravitate towards computers. The robust processing power and versatile capabilities of a computer are indispensable for tasks such as software development and data analysis. Additionally, the ergonomic comfort of a full-sized keyboard and larger screen contribute to my productivity.

    When did you start using computers?

    My initiation into the world of computers began around the age of 10. It all started with basic operations and gradually expanded to more advanced functions and applications.

    Do you think spending a lot of time on a computer is useful?

    Spending a significant amount of time on a computer can indeed yield substantial benefits, provided it’s approached with purpose and balance. Computers have revolutionised various domains, enabling efficient research, communication and innovation. However, it’s imperative to strike a harmony between screen time and other aspects of a balanced life, such as physical activities and social interactions. This can help ensure a more holistic sense of well-being.

    Thank you.

  • Lesson 116: House types in your country🏘️

    This is not an uncommon topic in IELTS Speaking. Today’s lesson uses a Part 3 model response.

    Step 1: Listen to the full model to gauge how much of the language you understand. Listen multiple times if needed. At this stage of the lesson, try to avoid referring to the transcript.

    Step 2: Below is the video version of this week’s podcast episode. Watch this video and practise saying a few lines from the exercise.

    Step 3: Now that you are familiar with the language in this week’s exercise, and you have noted some language areas to focus on, work through the full exercise by watching the below video.

    Step 4: Now read through the below transcript and note any and all language that you still find challenging to use. Write this language down in your journal and make notes to yourself to help you remember how and when to use this language appropriately.

    Step 5: Your instructor will post five speaking exercises to your Whatsapp group. Submit your samples promptly and wait for the instructor’s feedback.

    Chat on WhatsApp

    Transcript

    Are there many types of houses in your country?

    In my country, there exists a rich history of architectural diversity, and this includes a number of different house types. These range from sprawling suburban houses with manicured lawns to compact urban apartments within towering skyscrapers. There are also traditional house types such as cottages, bungalows and villas.

    Are there any traditional houses that are still popular in your country?

    Yes. Traditional houses still maintain their popularity in my country.

    Can you describe them?

    The best example I can think of this is the “courtyard house,” which is a blend of functionality and aesthetics. These houses typically feature an internal courtyard that serves as a hub for family gatherings and a source of natural light and ventilation. These house types include elaborate woodwork, intricate mosaic patterns and vibrant colours.

    How have the types of houses in your country changed over the years?

    Houses in my country have experienced significant evolution over the years. Urbanisation and globalisation have led to the rise of modern housing complexes and innovative designs, embracing minimalist aesthetics and energy-efficient features. Traditional houses have also changed. I find people are painting them in more brightly coloured shades than in the past, and it is not uncommon for people to install skylights to allow in natural sunlight.

    What is the difference between living in an old house compared to a new house?

    Living in an old house often fosters a connection to the past, offering a tangible link to history and nostalgia. These houses may boast intricate craftsmanship and unique detailing, yet they might lack the modern amenities and energy-efficient technologies that characterize new houses. Conversely, new houses offer advanced conveniences, efficient insulation, and sleek designs, but they may lack the charm and character inherent in older structures.

    For what reasons would you prefer to live in an old house or a new house?

    I would prefer to live in a new house. Old houses might resonate with those who value heritage and a sense of rootedness, but I find new houses appeal to those seeking contemporary comfort, innovative technologies and streamlined living arrangements. I feel more at ease and productive in well-designed newer homes. I think those would be the main reasons I would choose to live in a new house.