Author Archives: Ryan

Lesson 103: T-shirts👕

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Transcript

Where do you live?

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

Do you like wearing T-shirts?

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

How often do you wear T-shirts?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lesson 102: Noise pollution🎺

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

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

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

Step 3: Work through the full exercise below.

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

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

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Transcript

Is noise pollution an issue where you live?

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

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

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

Can noise pollution affect people’s health?

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

How do you think noise pollution affects wildlife?

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

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

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

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

Lesson 101: A noisy situation😖

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

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

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

Part 1: First, listen to the full sample.

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

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

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

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

Chat on WhatsApp

Transcript

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you.

Lesson 100: Your hometown and noise🔊

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

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

Part 1 Questions

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

noise pollution (noun)
-a group of unpleasant sounds

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

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

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

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!🗣️📲

“Toronto is a very dynamic and exciting city with a lot to offer. There are many different neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and charm. Some parts of the city are very modern and bustling, while others have a more historic and traditional feel. Overall, Toronto is a great place to live.”
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Step 5: It’s very important that you note any new language items or pronunciation points from this week’s lesson in your journal to help you chronicle your improvement.📝

Transcript

Where are you from?

I am originally from the vibrant city of Toronto.

What is your hometown like?

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

Is your hometown peaceful or noisy?

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

What are the main sources of noise in your hometown?

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

Does the noise interfere with your daily life?

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

Do you like places that are peaceful?

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

Thank you.

Lesson 99: Movie preferences📽️

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

Step 1: Listen to the full sample.

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

Step 3: Work through the full speech shadowing exercise.

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

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

Chat on WhatsApp

Transcript

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lesson 98: A recent development in your city🏙️

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

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

Step 1: Listen to the full sample.

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

Step 3: Complete the full speech shadowing exercise below.

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

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

Chat on WhatsApp

Transcript

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

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

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

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

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

Lesson 97: A leisure activity you did when you were young🏓

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

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

You should say:

-what it was

-where you did it

-who you did it with

-and explain how you felt about this activity

Part 1 and 2: These sections are temporarily unavailable.

Part 3: Complete the full exercise below.

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

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

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Transcript

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

You should say:

-what it was

-where you did it

-who you did it with

-and explain how you felt about this activity

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

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

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

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

Lesson 96: A favourite area in your home🏠

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Is speech shadowing important to train fully for IELTS Speaking? Yes! It can help you refine your accent and broaden your vocabulary. Today’s exercise on the topic of ‘a favourite area in your home’ will demonstrate this.

Step 1: Listen to the full sample.

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

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

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

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

Chat on WhatsApp

Transcript

Describe an area in your home where you feel relaxed. You should say:

-what area or room it is
-when you spend time in it
-why you feel relaxed there
-and explain what you do to relax

The area in my home where I feel most relaxed is my bedroom. As the name suggests, it is a place where I can retire after a long day to unwind and recharge. I guess this is unsurprising, but I spend most of my time in my bedroom during the evening and night-time.

The reason I feel so relaxed in my bedroom is because of the peaceful and cozy environment it provides. The walls are painted in pale shades of blue and green, which I find have a calming effect on my mind. The lighting is also soft and dim. This is actually by design – I bought these lamps because of the warm and inviting atmosphere they create. The furniture, including the bed and the armchair, is comfortable and soft to the touch, making it easy to sink into and relax.

When I want to relax in my bedroom, I usually engage in activities that help me unwind. For example, I like to read a book or listen to some soothing music. Sometimes, I also like to meditate or practise yoga, as it helps me clear my mind and release any tension that may have built up during the day. If I am feeling particularly tired, I may even take a nap or get an early night’s sleep.

Overall, my bedroom is my sanctuary, a place where I can shut out the noise of the world and focus on myself. It is a room where I can find peace and relaxation, and for that reason, it is my favourite area in my home.

Lesson 95: A person who dresses well👔

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This week’s English shadowing technique pushes you to speak about a person who dresses well. Here is the cue card used in this section:

Describe a person who dresses well. You should say:
-who the person is
-how you know him or her
-how often you see him or her
-and explain why you think this person dresses well

Step 1: Listen to the full model response.

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

Step 3: Complete the full speech shadowing exercise using the below video.

Step 4: Read the below transcript and note the new language you encountered today.

Step 5: Submit your five speaking samples to your Whatsapp instructor.

Chat on WhatsApp

Transcript

Describe a person who dresses well. You should say:
-who the person is
-how you know him or her
-how often you see him or her
-and explain why you think this person dresses well

I would like to talk about my friend Jack who I believe has a great sense of fashion and dresses exceptionally well. Jack is a friend of mine from university, and we have known each other for over five years. We met during our freshman year, and since then we have been good friends.

I see Jack quite often, as we are still in touch even after graduating from university. We usually hang out together every couple of weeks, and I always look forward to seeing him.

The thing that sets Jack apart from others when it comes to fashion is his ability to mix and match different styles and create a unique look. He always seems to know what’s trendy and fashionable, but he doesn’t blindly follow trends. Instead, he adapts them to his own personal style and makes it work for him. He also pays attention to the little details, such as matching the colour of his shoes with his belt.

Moreover, Jack’s clothes are always well-fitted, which I think is crucial for a person to dress well. His outfits are neither too tight nor too loose, and they always seem to flatter his body type. He also experiments with different colours and patterns and manages to pull them off effortlessly.

I think Jack dresses well because he has a great sense of style, pays attention to details, and knows how to dress for his body type. He inspires me to be more adventurous with my own fashion choices, and I’m always excited to see what he’ll be wearing the next time we meet.

Lesson 94: Your name🧑

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In this lesson, you will shadow talk Part 1 of a model IELTS Speaking exam and a very personal subject: your name!

Step 1: To start, listen to the full model response.

Step 2: The IELTSCast episode for this week’s lesson is temporarily unavailable.

Step 3: Work through the full exercise below.

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

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

Chat on WhatsApp

Transcript

Do you work or study?
I work in software for a tech company. I graduated from university a few years ago, and since then I’ve been working in the industry.

What kind of job do you have?
I’m a software engineer. This means I’m responsible for designing and developing software applications. My job involves coding, testing, and debugging software to ensure that it meets the requirements of the project. This role also requires I be familiar with project management frameworks to ensure the complex nature of our work is kept organised.

Do you feel pressure when you work?
Yes, I do feel pressure at times. Deadlines can be tight, and there’s often a lot of work to do. However, I try to manage my workload and prioritise tasks to ensure that I meet deadlines without sacrificing quality.

Let’s talk about names. Does your name have a meaning?
Yes, my name is Tom, which is a short form of Thomas. As I understand it, Thomas is a Greek name that means ‘twin’, although I don’t have a twin sibling. It’s a popular name in the UK and has been in use for centuries.

Do you have any family members with the same name as yours?
Yes, my grandfather’s name is also Tom. He’s been an important figure in my life, and we share a close bond. It’s an honour to have the same name as him, and it’s something that I’m proud of. I might even consider naming my son ‘Tom’ as well if I’m fortunate enough to have children one day!

Thank you.