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

Author: Ryan

  • Lesson 115: Your work, zoos and animals🦁

    Over the last two years, the topic of ‘animals’ has come up a few times in IELTS Speaking. In the below sample, this topic is narrowed to the subjects of ‘zoos’ and ‘wild animals’.

    Step 1: Listen to this week’s sample.

    Step 2: Watch the video version of this week’s podcast episode. Work through the sample speech shadowing exercise.

    Step 3: Work through the full version of the exercise using the below video. (Click here if you do not yet have access to these full exercises.)

    Step 4: Read through the below transcript and make note of any language items that were new or challenging for you this week.

    Step 5: Post your weekly speaking samples to your Whatsapp group and wait for your instructor’s feedback.

    Chat on WhatsApp

    Transcript

    Do you work or study?

    I currently work as a retail sales associate for a well-known store in my city.

    Where do you work?

    I work at a hardware store that is located in the bustling commercial district of my city.

    What do you like about your work?

    Firstly, I love interacting with different customers daily and assisting them in finding products that suit their needs. It gives me great satisfaction to see customers leave the store happy with their purchases. Additionally, the retail industry allows me to stay updated with the latest trends and products, which aligns perfectly with my interest in home repairs and hobbyist activities. Moreover, the camaraderie among my colleagues creates a pleasant and supportive work environment, making each day enjoyable.

    What would make your work more interesting?

    While I find my work already fascinating, I believe it would become even more interesting with the implementation of regular training sessions. Learning about new sales techniques, customer service approaches and product knowledge would help me excel in my role and better serve our customers. Furthermore, having opportunities to attend industry events or participate in merchandising decisions would add a creative and dynamic aspect to my work, making it more engaging and fulfilling. Let’s talk about zoos.

    Have you ever been to a zoo?

    Yes, I have. There isn’t a zoo in my city but I have driven to The Moscow Zoo several times, which is about 90 minutes away. I find zoos to be an enriching experience, offering a wonderful chance to observe and learn about various animal species from around the world.

    What wild animals are commonly found in your country?

    In Russia, we are fortunate to have diverse wildlife. Commonly found species include brown bears, wolves, reindeer, elk, and various bird species such as swans, hawks, and falcons. Our vast landscapes also host rare and endangered animals like Siberian tigers and snow leopards. I believe I saw all of these animals at the zoo I was mentioning before.

    What wild animal from another country would you like to see in the future?

    One wild animal from another country that I would love to see in the future is the graceful and elusive cheetah from Africa. Witnessing the fastest land animal in its natural habitat would be an extraordinary experience, and it would offer me a profound appreciation for wildlife preservation efforts across the globe.

  • Lesson 114: A significant personal achievement you had🎓

    This week, you will once again speak about a personal experience. This is a Part 2 model that uses the following cue card:

    Talk about a significant personal achievement you had. You should say:

    -what the achievement was
    -when and where it happened
    -the steps you took to accomplish it
    -and say why it is significant to you

    Step 1: Listen to the full sample.

    Step 2: Watch the video version of this week’s podcast episode. (Please excuse the bright background! I forgot to edit this before rendering the video.)

    Step 3: Work through the full version of this week’s speech shadowing exercise.

    Step 4: Read through the below transcript. Make special note of areas you found challenging this week.

    Step 5: Submit your daily speech samples to your instructor via your Whatsapp group.

    Chat on WhatsApp

    Trancsript

    Talk about a significant personal achievement you had. You should say:

    -what the achievement was
    -when and where it happened
    -the steps you took to accomplish it
    -and say why it is significant to you

    Well, one of the most significant personal achievements I had was winning the National Science Fair during my final year of high school. It was a remarkable experience that left a lasting impact on my life.

    The achievement occurred back in May of 2015 at the state-of-the-art convention center in our city. The National Science Fair is an annual event that attracts top young minds from all over the country to showcase their innovative projects and research.

    Accomplishing this achievement required months of rigorous research, experimentation, and countless hours of hard work. My project focused on finding an eco-friendly alternative to plastic packaging materials, aiming to reduce environmental pollution caused by plastic waste.

    The first step I took was extensively researching scientific papers and academic journals, and I sought advice from experts in the field. Then came the testing phase, which involved designing a series of experiments, carrying out numerous trial runs, and recording my findings meticulously. I encountered many sleepless nights, but the support of my family, teachers, and peers kept me motivated.

    Finally, the day of the National Science Fair arrived. Standing alongside other brilliant young minds, I presented my project to a panel of esteemed judges and visitors. The experience was nerve-wracking, but my passion for my research helped me articulate my findings confidently. When the results were announced, I couldn’t believe it—I had won the first prize!

    This achievement is incredibly significant to me because it reinforced my passion for science and the environment, shaping both my academic and career trajectory. It also solidified my decision to pursue a degree in Environmental Science, which I am currently doing in university.

  • Lesson 113: An unusual meal you had🍖

    This week, you will be talking about food. This lesson uses the following Part 2 cue card:

    Talk about an unusual meal you had. You should say
    – when you had it
    – where you had it
    – what kind of meal it was
    – and explain why it was unusual.

    Step 1: Listen to the full sample to familiarise yourself with the language.

    Step 2: Watch this week’s podcast lesson and repeat a few of the sentences from the model.

    Step 3: Now try the full exercise using the below member’s-only video.

    Step 4: Read through the included transcript of this week’s sample (below).

    Step 5: Post your five weekly speech samples to your Whatsapp group and follow the advice of your instructor.

    Transcript

    Talk about an unusual meal you had. You should say
    – when you had it
    – where you had it
    – what kind of meal it was
    – and explain why it was unusual.

    I’d like to talk about a rather extraordinary meal I had during my trip to Japan last year. It was an unforgettable experience that took place in a traditional Japanese inn located in the quaint town of Takayama.

    The meal itself was a traditional Kaiseki dinner, which is a multi-course dining experience renowned for its artistic presentation and use of seasonal ingredients. The meal began with a series of beautifully arranged appetisers, which included some familiar items like sashimi and tempura. But as the courses progressed, I was introduced to a variety of uncommon dishes. One of the most peculiar delicacies was Hoba Miso, a regional specialty where miso paste, wild mushrooms, and vegetables were cooked over a magnolia leaf. The earthy aroma and rich flavours were unlike anything I had tasted before.

    Furthermore, the chef proudly served a platter which I believe was called Seki-saba, a local delicacy of fermented mackerel. While its intense pungent smell might have deterred some, I decided to embrace the experience fully. To my surprise, the taste was surprisingly complex and utterly delightful.

    Another dish that added to the uniqueness of the meal was Kuro-udon, which was black udon noodles made with bamboo charcoal. The dramatic colour contrast against the traditional white tableware was visually striking and added an artistic element to the dining experience.

    What truly made this meal unusual was the combination of the serene surroundings, the artistic presentation, and the rare ingredients. I unfortunately don’t think I’ll have an experience like this again anytime soon. Trying these unfamiliar and rare dishes opened my eyes to the vast diversity of Japanese cuisine and its strong connection to regional traditions and culture.

  • Lesson 112: A trustworthy person💙

    This week’s cue card asks you to speak about a person:

    Talk about a trustworthy person you know. You should say:
    -how you met this person
    -how long you’ve known this person
    -why you feel they are trustworthy
    and say what they did to gain your trust

    Step 1: Listen to the full sample.

    Step 2: Watch this week’s podcast episode and try the sample ‘repeat after me’ sentences.

    Step 3: Work through the full video exercise.

    Step 4: Read through the below transcript.

    Step 5: Post your speech samples to your Whatsapp group.

    Transcript

    Talk about a trustworthy person you know. You should say:
    -how you met this person
    -how long you’ve known this person
    -why you feel they are trustworthy
    and say what they did to gain your trust

    Well, I would like to talk about a person whom I consider to be extremely trustworthy. His name is John, and I first met him during my freshman year of college, which was about five years ago.

    To provide some background, John and I were assigned as roommates in the college dormitory. From the very beginning, he exhibited qualities that made me feel I could trust him completely. For example, during our first or perhaps second week of living as roommates, I accidentally misplaced my wallet containing important identification documents, credit cards and a considerable amount of cash.

    Naturally, I was overwhelmed and stressed, fearing the consequences of losing such crucial items. However, without any hesitation, John assured me that we would search for the wallet together. We retraced my steps meticulously and eventually found my wallet tucked away in a jacket pocket I had forgotten about.

    What truly touched me was John’s selfless behavior throughout the process. We did not yet know each other very well, and he could have easily ignored my predicament or even taken advantage of the situation, but instead, he stood by me as a loyal friend. His commitment to helping me, without expecting anything in return, solidified my trust in him.

    Moreover, John’s dedication to maintaining confidentiality further strengthens my belief in his trustworthiness. On numerous occasions, I have shared my personal struggles and concerns with him, knowing that he would keep them in utmost confidence. 

    In summary, through his consistent honesty, reliability and willingness to go above and beyond, John has proved himself to be an incredibly trustworthy person.

  • Lesson 111: More talk about TV shows📺

    This week, we will use the speech shadowing technique to train for Part 3 of the IELTS Speaking exam.

    Step 1: Listen to the full sample response.

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

    Step 3: Work through this week’s full exercise. (Click here if you do not yet have access to full lessons.)

    Step 4: Read through the below transcript. To get the most out of the ‘repeat after me’ method, review this transcript and attempt the full speech shadowing exercise more than once. Keep working on it until these patterns start to feel natural for you.

    Step 5: Below is the first of five speech samples you must submit to your Whatsapp group. Practise saying the sample and when you feel ready, record your voice in the Whatsapp app. Then wait for your instructor’s feedback.

    Chat on WhatsApp
    Monday’s speech exercise

    Say this in your Whatsapp group: 🗣️

    “Personally, I find a wide range of TV shows interesting, but I am particularly drawn to thought-provoking documentaries and gripping crime dramas.“

    Transcript

    What kinds of TV shows do you find interesting?

    Personally, I find a wide range of TV shows interesting, but I am particularly drawn to thought-provoking documentaries and gripping crime dramas. Documentaries provide me with valuable insights into various subjects, expanding my knowledge and understanding of the world. On the other hand, crime dramas captivate me with their intricate plotlines and suspenseful storytelling.

    Why do TV shows resonate differently in different countries?

    TV shows resonate differently in different countries due to cultural, social, and historical factors. Each country has its unique values, traditions, and preferences, which influence the viewers’ tastes and perceptions. Additionally, local TV shows often reflect the specific issues and concerns of a particular society, making them more relatable and engaging for the local audience. Thus, cultural context plays a vital role in shaping the resonance of TV shows in different countries.

    How are TV shows different from movies?

    TV shows differ from movies in several ways. Firstly, TV shows are typically episodic, consisting of multiple episodes that form a series and allow for character development and complex storylines. In contrast, movies are self-contained narratives presented within a limited timeframe. Secondly, TV shows have a longer duration, often spanning multiple seasons, while movies are typically confined to a single instalment. Additionally, TV shows have the flexibility to delve deeper into their narratives and explore diverse plotlines, whereas movies often focus on delivering a concise and compact story within a limited timeframe.

    Have TV shows from your country changed compared to the past?

    Yes, TV shows from my country have certainly changed compared to the past. In the past, there was a more limited variety of TV shows, with a heavy emphasis on traditional sitcoms, dramas, and news programmes. However, with advancements in technology and evolving viewer preferences, there has been a significant shift in content. Nowadays, we witness a surge in reality TV shows, talent competitions, and streaming platforms offering a wide range of genres and formats. This change has allowed for more diversity, creativity, and audience engagement in the television landscape of my country.

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

  • Lesson 110: A popular TV show from your country📺

    This week’s lesson uses the following cue card to run you through the speech shadowing method:

    Talk about a TV show that is popular in your country. You should say
    -what show it is
    -what the show is about
    -why this show is popular in your country
    -how you feel about this TV show

    Step 1: Listen to the model and familiarize yourself with the language.

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

    Step 3: Now attempt the full exercise below.

    Step 4: Read through the transcript included below. Note any of the language that you found challenging today.

    Step 5: Complete all five of this week’s speech samples and post them in your Whatsapp group.

    Chat on WhatsApp

    Transcript

    Talk about a TV show that is popular in your country. You should say
    -what show it is
    -what the show is about
    -why this show is popular in your country
    -how you feel about this TV show

    I would like to talk about a popular TV show in my country, the Philippines, called ‘Brothers’. It is a widely acclaimed action-drama series that has garnered immense popularity among viewers nationwide. The show centers around the life of ‘Cardo’, a courageous police officer, as he fights crime and seeks justice in the bustling city of Manila.

    Brothers captivated audiences in the Philippines for several reasons. Firstly, the show offers a compelling narrative that combines elements of action, suspense, and heartfelt drama. Each episode presents a new challenge for Cardo, who fearlessly battles corrupt officials, criminal syndicates, and personal adversities. The series keeps viewers hooked with its fast-paced plotlines, intense action sequences, and emotional character arcs.

    Further, I think Brothers resonates with Filipino viewers due to its relatable themes and portrayal of societal issues. The show sheds light on the struggles faced by ordinary citizens, highlighting the complexities of urban life and the day-to-day challenges ordinary citizens face. It also captures the resilience and hard-working nature of the Filipino people, creating a strong emotional connection with local audiences as well as international audiences that are interested in Filipino pop culture. 

    The success of Brothers can also be attributed to the exceptional performances of the cast. For example, Coco Martin’s portrayal of Officer Cardo has become iconic, earning him widespread praise for his dedication and versatility as an actor. Such performances as well as the show’s gripping storyline are what kept me on the edge of my seat while I was watching the show, and I am thus hardly surprised that the show gained such legacy in my country.

    It is for these reasons that Brothers has secured itself as a significant part of the Filipino television landscape.

  • Lesson 109: Your job satisfaction😇

    This week, we look at a very common IELTS Speaking topic: your job!

    Step 1: Listen to the sample. You can listen more than once if needed.

    Step 2: Work through this week’s sample lesson below.

    Step 3: Work through the below lesson. This is the full lesson that is made available to paid subscribers.

    Step 4: Read through the below transcript and note any of the new or challenging language you came across this week. Review these areas in the coming weeks.

    Step 5: Your instructor will post a speaking exercise each day this week. Submit your speaking sample to your Whatsapp group and wait for further feedback.

    Chat on WhatsApp

    Transcript

    Where are you from?

    I am from a vibrant city called Abuja, which is the capital of Nigeria. It’s a culturally rich place that attracts people and business from all around the world.

    Do you work or study?

    I currently work as a software engineer. After completing my degree in computer science, I joined a respected technology company where I have been working for the past three years.

    Where do you work?

    I work at XY Tech, a leading software development firm based in the heart of the city. It’s a dynamic and innovative workplace with a strong emphasis on cutting-edge technologies. The company has a reputation for delivering high-quality software solutions to clients across various industries.

    Do you like your job?

    Absolutely. I truly enjoy my job as a software engineer. It provides me with the opportunity to work on fascinating projects and collaborate with talented individuals. I find the process of designing and developing software immensely satisfying, and the feeling of creating something that can make a real impact is truly rewarding.

    What are some of the benefits of doing this job?

    One of the major benefits of working as a software engineer is the continuous learning and growth opportunities. This job allows me to enhance my technical skills and expand my knowledge base, which is invaluable in today’s rapidly changing world. Additionally, because software engineers are in high demand, the job offers a competitive salary and benefits package. I also have a very flexible work environment and the option to work remotely, which are perks I find appealing.

    Are there any areas where you would like your company to change?

    While I am quite satisfied with my current company, there are a few areas where I believe some improvements could be made. Firstly, I think it would be beneficial if the company invested more in professional development programmes and licensing opportunities. As I mentioned earlier, continuous learning is crucial in the technology field, and by providing employees with access to the latest courses and workshops, the company can ensure that its workforce remains highly skilled and up to date with emerging technologies.

    I would also appreciate a more structured approach to our meetings. I usually have several meetings a day and because there is no standard company structure for these meetings, we often go overtime or talk about the same topic multiple times. A standard structure would keep meetings more streamlined and productive.

    Aside from those items, I can’t think of anything else I would change.

    Thank you.

  • Lesson 108: Gifts and giving🫴

    This week’s lesson requires you speak about gifts and giving.

    Step 1: Listen to the full sample.

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

    Step 3: Now work through the full exercise. Consult the below transcript if needed.

    Step 4: Read through the below transcript.

    Step 5: Work through this week’s daily exercises with your Whatsapp instructor.

    Transcript

    Why do people give gifts to each other?


    People give gifts to each other for various reasons. Firstly, gift-giving is a way to express love, appreciation, and gratitude towards others. It allows individuals to convey their feelings and strengthen personal relationships. Additionally, giving gifts on special occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries, and holidays is a cultural tradition that brings joy and creates a sense of celebration.

    Do you think expensive gifts are more meaningful than inexpensive ones?


    The meaning of a gift is subjective and can vary from person to person. While expensive gifts may be associated with financial investment and perceived luxury, the true significance of a gift lies in the thought and sentiment behind it. Inexpensive gifts can be just as meaningful, as they often reflect personal thoughtfulness, creativity, and understanding of the recipient’s preferences and interests.

    What are the advantages and disadvantages of giving cash as a gift?


    Giving cash as a gift has both advantages and disadvantages. One advantage is that it provides the recipient with the freedom to choose something they truly desire or need, ensuring they get exactly what they want. However, a major disadvantage of giving cash is that it can be perceived as impersonal or lacking thoughtfulness compared to a carefully chosen gift.

    In your opinion, what makes a gift memorable and special?


    To my mind, a gift becomes memorable and special when it goes beyond a material object and creates a lasting emotional impact. I guess what I’m trying to say is that personalisation plays a crucial role. A gift that is tailored to the recipient’s interests, hobbies or aspirations shows thoughtfulness and consideration. The element of surprise can also enhance the memorability of a gift. Unexpected gestures or unique experiences associated with the gift can leave a lasting impression. 

    Should people feel obligated to reciprocate when they receive a gift?


    While the act of reciprocating a gift is often viewed as a social norm, I don’t think individuals should feel obligated to reciprocate. Reciprocity should stem from genuine appreciation and the desire to express gratitude, rather than a sense of obligation. It is important to recognise that the true value of a gift lies in the act of giving itself.

  • Lesson 107: A gift of money💰

    This week, you will use the following cue card to train for Part 2 of IELTS Speaking:

    Describe a time when you received money as a gift from a family member. You should say
    -when you received the gift
    -why you received it
    -what you did with the money
    -and explain how you felt after receiving the gift

    Step 1: Listen to the full sample.

    Step 2: Work through the sample exercise in the below podcast episode.

    Step 3: (Full lesson temporarily unavailable.)

    Step 4: Read through the below transcript.

    Step 5: Complete the speech exercises with your Whatsapp instructor.

    Transcript

    Describe a time when you received money as a gift from a family member. You should say
    -when you received the gift
    -why you received it
    -what you did with the money
    -and explain how you felt after receiving the gift

    On my last birthday, my grandmother surprised me with a generous sum of money as a gift. It was a delightful and unexpected gesture from her, and she explained that she wanted me to use the money in any way I pleased.

    After receiving the gift, I carefully considered how to utilise the money in a way that would be both meaningful and memorable. I wanted to make sure it would have a lasting impact on my life. Therefore, I decided to invest a portion of the money in my education. I enrolled myself in an online course that I had been eyeing for a while. This course was directly related to my career aspirations, and I knew it would enhance my skills and open up new opportunities for me in the future.

    Additionally, I decided to allocate a portion of the money towards a long-awaited vacation. I had been longing to take a break and explore a new destination. With the financial gift from my grandmother, I was able to book a trip to a picturesque beach resort. It was an incredible experience, allowing me to relax, rejuvenate, and create beautiful memories.

    Receiving such a generous gift from my grandmother made me feel an immense sense of gratitude and appreciation. It was not just about the monetary value of the gift but also the thought and love behind it. Knowing that my grandmother cared about my dreams and aspirations, and wanted to contribute to my personal growth, touched me deeply. I will always cherish that memorable day and the impact this gift had on my life.

  • Lesson 107: Friendship👬

    This week, we’re talking about friendship – a very common topic in IELTS Speaking.

    Step 1: Listen to the full sample.

    Step 2: Work through the sample exercise.

    Step 3: Complete the full speech shadowing exercise.

    Step 4: Read through the below transcript.

    Step 5: Complete this week’s daily speech shadowing exercises with your Whatsapp instructor.

    Chat on WhatsApp

    Transcript

    Where are you from?

    I am originally from New York City.

    Do you work or study?

    Currently, I am pursuing my undergraduate degree in economics at the prestigious New York University. Although my main focus is on my studies, I also engage in part-time work to gain practical experience and support myself financially.

    When do you feel happy at work?

    I find happiness at work when I am fully engaged in meaningful tasks that align with my skills and interests. I also like working in a positive and supportive environment with friendly colleagues and I find this enhances my overall job satisfaction. Collaboration, mutual respect, and a sense of camaraderie foster a pleasant work atmosphere and contribute to my happiness in the workplace.

    Let’s talk about friends. Do you have many friends?

    Although I value quality over quantity when it comes to friendships, I am fortunate to have a close-knit circle of friends who are dependable, understanding and supportive. While the size of my social circle may not be extensive, the depth of the connections I have with my friends is truly meaningful. We share common interests and values, and we actively support each other through life’s ups and downs.

    Is making friends easy for you?

    I consider myself to be a sociable and outgoing individual, which generally makes it easier for me to make new friends. However, I believe that building deep and lasting friendships requires time, effort, and shared experiences. Thus, while I may find it relatively easy to establish initial connections, forming meaningful friendships requires investment and mutual understanding.

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

    I find that I most easily make friends with individuals who share similar interests and values. I also appreciate people who are open-minded, empathetic, and possess a sense of humour. These qualities foster a comfortable and welcoming environment, making it easier for me to connect with them on a deeper level.