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

Category: Culture

  • 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 145: Music in your country🪕

    This week, we are looking at Part 1 of a recent IELTS Speaking exam.

    Step 1: Listen to the full sample.

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

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

    Step 4: Read through the below transcript and note all areas that you found new or challenging this week.

    Step 5: Complete your weekly speech shadowing exercises with your Whatsapp instructor. Below is Monday’s exercise. Tuesday through Friday’s exercises will be posted to your Whatsapp group.

    Chat on WhatsApp

    Transcript

    What is your name?

    My name is Ryan.

    Where are you from?

    I am from the city of Salvador. It’s situated along the northeastern coast of Brazil.

    What do you do? Work or study?

    Currently, I am pursuing a degree in social sciences at a university in my city.

    What do you like about your studies?

    I like learning about societal structures. For example, the degree lets me analyse human behaviour and societal dynamics, and these are topics that I find fascinating.

    What type of music do you enjoy listening to?

    This is probably no surprise, but Brazilian music holds a special place in my heart. I especially like styles such as bossa nova. In fact, I have a Brazilian bossa nova playlist that I listen to almost every day.

    When do you usually listen to music?

    I often immerse myself in music during relaxing moments, such as when I’m on the beautiful beaches of Salvador or enjoying a lazy Sunday afternoon.

    Was music a part of your education during your school days?

    It was! Music education was integral during my school days in Brazil. We had dedicated classes where we explored the rhythms of samba and the melodies of bossa nova. For us students, these sessions were not only informative but also a source of national pride.

    Have you ever learned to play a musical instrument?

    Yes. I learned how to play the acoustic guitar. Playing allows me to express the soulful melodies that are deeply ingrained in Brazilian culture.

    Do many people in your country enjoy music?

    Without a doubt. Music is a fundamental part of life in Brazilian culture. You can hear it pretty much everywhere – on a busy bus or…coming from someone’s window as you walk down the street. It’s a hallmark of our country.

    Thank you.

  • Lesson 144: An event or ceremony most people go through in your culture🪔

    Here is the Part 2 cue card we are working with this week:

    Describe an event or ceremony most people go through in your culture. You should say:
    -what the event or ceremony is
    -when people usually experience it
    -how it affects people
    and explain your opinion about it

    Step 1: Listen to the model response.

    Step 2: Tune in to this week’s podcast episode and practise saying some of the sentences from the response.

    Step 3: Work through the full exercise.

    Step 4: Read through the full transcript (below) and note any of the language items you found challenging this week.

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

    Chat on WhatsApp

    Transcript

    Describe an event or ceremony most people go through in your culture. You should say:
    -what the event or ceremony is
    -when people usually experience it
    -how it affects people
    and explain your opinion about it

    I’d like to talk about the traditional ceremony of Diwali, which is widely celebrated in my culture.

    Typically, Diwali falls in October or November, depending on the lunar calendar. The festival lasts for five days, with the main day being marked by the lighting of oil lamps and candles. We do this to symbolise the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil.

    Diwali has a profound impact on people in my culture. It is a time when families come together and adorn their houses with colourful decorations. This fosters a sense of unity and creates a positive and festive atmosphere. We also prepare sweet and savory dishes and exchange gifts to promote goodwill among friends and neighbours.

    On a deeper level, Diwali holds cultural and spiritual significance. The rituals and prayers performed during the festival are believed to bring prosperity and good fortune. The symbolic significance of light dispelling darkness encourages introspection and pushes people to make positive changes in their life.

    In my opinion, Diwali is not just a festival. It is a reflection of our cultural values and traditions. It brings joy and happiness to people’s lives, fostering a sense of belonging and community. The rituals associated with Diwali, such as lighting lamps and offering prayers, instill a sense of spirituality and mindfulness. Moreover, the emphasis on charity during Diwali encourages people to share their prosperity with those less fortunate. I believe that such traditions are essential in preserving the richness of our cultural heritage and promoting values that carry on for multiple generations.

  • Lesson 139: Complaints☹️

    This week you will learn to speak about a topic that comes up on the IELTS every few years…complaining! Specifically: how and why do people complain?

    Step 1: Listen to the full model. Note any new language you come across. Remember that a complete transcript can be found at the bottom of this blog post.

    Step 2 (free): Listen to this week’s IELTSCast episode to get a sample of the ‘repeat after me’ exercise. Do the exercise multiple times until you can recite the language accurately from memory:

    Step 3 (‘Access Full Lessons‘): Below is the full speech shadowing exercise. (Click here to sign up if you do not yet have access.) Push yourself to mimic the language as closely as you can. Note small things, even subtle differences in the way your mouth and throat feel as you produce the language:

    Step 4 (‘Join a Whatsapp Group): Post your speech sample to your Whatsapp group. If you haven’t yet been added to a group, email me! ryan@ieltsielts.com

    Transcript:

    What do people usually complain about in public places?

    In public places, people commonly complain about inadequate facilities, poor sanitation, noise levels and overcrowding.

    When people complain, do they usually do it verbally or in writing?

    I think it depends on the situation and size of the problem. For smaller nuisances, verbal communication seems to be more prevalent. People tend to voice their concerns directly to the relevant authorities or service providers, perhaps to get an immediate response. I think written complaints would be more common for complex or ongoing issues, such as noise coming from a construction site.

    Do you think social media has changed the way people complain about services or products?

    Oh yes, it certainly has. Platforms like Twitter and Facebook allow individuals to voice their concerns instantly and to a broad audience. This not only puts pressure on businesses to address issues promptly but also empowers consumers by providing a public forum for expressing dissatisfaction. This new way to complain did not exist 30 years ago.

    Do you think it is important for businesses to address customer complaints?

    Absolutely. Resolving complaints fosters customer loyalty and enhances the company’s reputation. In today’s interconnected world, where information spreads rapidly, neglecting customer grievances can lead to a tarnished image and a loss of clientele.

    How do you think complaints should be handled to ensure customers are satisfied?

    I feel companies should first establish clear and accessible channels through which customers can express their concerns. Once a complaint is received, a prompt response acknowledging the issue is essential. Investigating the root cause is then necessary. Finally, offering a fair resolution helps to win back customer loyalty.

    When someone is complaining in an aggressive way, should they be punished?

    I guess it depends on the degree and nature of the aggression. Businesses should do what they can to de-escalate aggressive clients and deal with the cause of unhappiness. However, if the aggressive behaviour persists or starts to involve personal threats then I think the business has the right to refuse service or –in extreme circumstances– call the police.

  • Lesson 138: An event that positively impacted your life🌠

    This week, you will practise speaking about an event that had a positive impact upon your life.

    Step 1: Listen to this week’s sample to familiarise yourself with the target language:

    Step 2: Below is this week’s podcast episode, where you can attempt the first few sentences of the exercise. Remember to push yourself to sound as much like the model as possible!

    Step 3: Work your way through the full exercise below. (If you do not yet have access, you can sign up by clicking this link.)

    Step 4: Read through the below transcript and be sure to note any new language you come across in your journal. Actively try to use this language in your own day-to-day speaking.

    Describe an event in your life that changed it in a positive way. You should say:
    -what the event was
    -when it happened
    -how it changed your life
    and explain why this change was positive for you

    Well, I would have to say my decision to learn a new language changed my life in a positive way.

    This significant turning point occurred around three years ago during my summer break. I had always been intrigued by the different cultures of Spanish-speaking people, so deciding to study Spanish was a natural choice for me. The journey began with enrolling in an intensive language course and immersing myself in Spanish literature and media. Doing these two things helped me to improve my understanding and abilities rapidly.

    I’ll now speak about the multifaceted ways in which studying Spanish impacted my life. Firstly, the mental challenge of mastering a new language stimulated my cognitive abilities and significantly improved my memory and problem-solving skills. Moreover, the decision to learn Spanish opened up a world of cultural richness – exciting literature, films and music. I also found myself connecting both in-person and online with a global community of language learners, and this was extremely rewarding.

    The most significant change, however, was the unexpected boost it gave to my career. The ability to speak Spanish fluently became a valuable skill, and it opened up new job opportunities for me in Europe, the Americas and even Asia. Today, my work involves facilitating trade between my country and Spanish speaking countries. It’s an extremely rewarding role that I wouldn’t have been capable of doing otherwise.

    In summary, the decision to learn a new language, Spanish in particular, was a transformative event that positively influenced various aspects of my life.

  • Lesson 132: Rain and staying healthy in your country🏃

    This lesson examines a Part 1 series of questions that jump between two topics: ‘rain’ and ‘staying healthy in your country’.

    Step 1: Familiarise yourself with the sample by listening to it at least once.

    Step 2: This week’s podcast episode gives you a few preview sentences with which to work with. Tune in here:

    Step 3: Complete the full speech shadowing exercise. There is a transcript at the bottom of this lesson to support you.

    Step 4: Once again read through the below transcript and be sure to note any new language in your journal for later reference. An important part of these exercises is to make efforts to include the new language in your own day-to-day speaking.

    Step 5: If you have been added to a Whatsapp group, you will receive this week’s speech prompts and can work through the exercises with your instructor.

    Chat on WhatsApp

    Transcript

    Do you work or study?

    Currently, I study marketing at a college in this city.

    Why did you choose to study this subject?

    I chose to study marketing because of its dynamic nature and its direct relevance to my career goals. The field allows me to combine creativity with strategic thinking, providing a perfect fit for my aspirations.

    Let’s talk about rain. Does it rain much in your city?

    In Rome, we experience moderate rainfall, particularly during the spring and fall seasons. The rain contributes to the city’s greenery and maintains a pleasant climate.

    Would you most like to live in a place that is dry or wet?

    I prefer a place with a balanced climate. Moderate rainfall adds to the environmental diversity and creates a pleasant atmosphere.

    Would you change your plans if it rained outside?

    Weather conditions do influence my plans to some extent. Heavy rain might prompt me to reconsider outdoor activities. However, a light drizzle usually doesn’t deter me from my plans.

    Let’s talk about health. Is it easy to stay healthy in your country?

    Yes, it is generally easy to maintain good health in Italy. Access to healthcare facilities, a variety of fresh and nutritious foods, and a cultural emphasis on physical activity contribute to an environment conducive to overall well-being.

    How do you maintain your physical health?

    I prioritise physical health through a combination of regular exercise and a balanced diet. Engaging in activities like jogging and incorporating a variety of fruits, vegetables and lean proteins into my diet ensures that I stay fit and energetic.

    Do you have a favourite exercise?

    Indeed, my favourite exercise is yoga. I find it not only physically beneficial but also mentally rejuvenating. The rhythmic nature of yoga allows me to unwind and stay physically active, contributing to a holistic sense of well-being.

  • Lesson 131: Young people and independence🧮

    This is a lesson that focuses on Part 3 of the IELTS Speaking exam.

    Step 1: Listen to this week’s full sample.

    Step 2: Practise repeating a few sentences from the model in this week’s IELTSCast episode.

    Step 3: Complete this week’s full lesson. (Click here if you do not yet have access.)

    Step 4: Review the below transcript and remember to note any new language you come across.

    Transcript

    Do you think nowadays young people have to become independent at a younger age compared to the past?

    Absolutely. In contemporary society, the pace of life has accelerated, and this has required young people grow up faster than in previous generations. The job market is more competitive and demands young professionals demonstrate autonomy and self-reliance. For example, people switch career paths way more now than they did in the past, and this requires people be more self-reliant and less dependent on a long-term employer.

    How does moving out of the family home contribute to a young person’s sense of independence?

    Moving out is a pivotal step towards autonomy. It exposes individuals to the complexities of managing a household, handling bills and making decisions independently. Living away from the family provides a platform for personal growth, encouraging individuals to confront challenges, solve problems and build resilience.

    What responsibilities do young adults typically face when they move out of their parents’ home?

    Young adults take on a spectrum of responsibilities when they move out. Managing finances, such as rent, utilities and daily expenses, becomes a central concern. Household chores, meal planning and even addressing unforeseen issues require consistent attention. I would even include things like taking on responsibility for personal health.

    How can financial challenges impact a young person’s ability to live independently?

    Financial challenges can be a substantial hurdle. Limited financial resources may hinder the person’s ability to secure stable housing or afford basic necessities. This, in turn, can lead to increased stress and other health problems that might aggravate financial issues further.

    Do you think moving out affects the relationship between parents and their children? In what ways?

    Undoubtedly, moving out reshapes the parent-child dynamic. While physical distance may initially strain the relationship, it also provides an opportunity for a more mature and egalitarian connection. Both parties learn to appreciate each other’s perspectives, and the relationship transforms into one built on mutual respect and understanding. The periodic reunions become cherished moments, fostering a deeper and more evolved bond between parents and their independent children.