Category Archives: Culture

Lesson 139: Complaints☹️

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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🌠

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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🏃

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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.

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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🧮

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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.

Lesson 125: Traditional celebrations in the modern world🎏

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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🌠

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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 122: Board games and society🃏

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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🎲

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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 119: Cybersecurity🛡️

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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.

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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 116: House types in your country🏘️

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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.

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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.