Category: Education

  • Lesson 189: Reading📚

    Free sample lesson (audio and video):

    Listen to the sample without the pauses:

    Full version lesson:

    Transcript:

    Do you study or work?
    Currently, I am a student. I am studying agricultural sciences at a local university.

    What do you like about your university?
    One of the things I appreciate most about my university is its emphasis on practical learning. For example, in addition to science-heavy courses, we also do horticultural work outdoors. The campus also has a large greenhouse that allows us to continue this hands-on training right through the dead of winter.

    Is there anything you dislike about your university?
    I suppose I feel that some administrative processes could be streamlined. For instance, registering for courses or accessing certain student services can sometimes be unnecessarily time-consuming.

    Let’s talk about reading. How often do you read books or other materials?
    I try to read every day, whether it’s an academic article, a novel, or just news updates online. I see reading as an essential way to stay informed and expand my knowledge.

    Do you find it easier to read on a computer or a physical book?
    I find reading on a computer or tablet more convenient because it allows me to access a wide range of resources quickly. However, when it comes to enjoying a novel or something purely for leisure, I still prefer physical books. There’s something comforting about the feel of a book in your hands.

    Do you prefer reading for pleasure or for educational purposes?
    I enjoy both, but my preference depends on my mood. Reading for educational purposes is often rewarding because it helps me gain skills related to my studies. That said, reading for pleasure allows me to unwind and immerse myself in different worlds.

    Do you think reading will be important for your future career?
    Absolutely. Staying updated on the latest agricultural research is crucial for my industry. Reading will play a significant role in helping me refine my skills, understand emerging technologies and remain competitive in the field. Being well-read also enhances critical thinking and communication skills, which are invaluable in any profession.

  • Lesson 187: A person who helped you achieve a goal🎯

    Free sample lesson (audio and video):

    Listen to the sample without the pauses:

    Full version lesson:

    Transcript:

    Describe a person who helped you achieve a goal. You should say:
    – what the goal was
    – who this person is
    – how he or she motivated you
    and explain the effect of this motivation on achieving your goal.

    One significant goal I set for myself a few years ago was to improve my public speaking skills. The person who played a pivotal role in helping me achieve this goal was my university professor, Dr. Sullivan. He was not only an exceptional teacher but also a mentor who genuinely cared about his students’ growth.

    Dr. Sullivan motivated me in multiple ways. He encouraged me to participate in a university debating club, which he supervised. His approach was always supportive and constructive. For example, rather than focusing on what I did wrong, he highlighted my strengths and helped me build upon them. He also shared personal stories of how he overcame his own fears of public speaking, which made me feel that my goal was achievable.

    The effect of his motivation was profound. With his guidance, I started practicing regularly. Over time, I grew more confident. I even competed in a regional debate competition and won second place, an accomplishment I never imagined possible. Beyond the tangible results, his support helped me learn to tackle challenges head-on.

    Dr. Sullivan’s mentorship helped me achieve my goal of improving my public speaking skills. He also instilled a sense of confidence that continues to benefit me to this day.

  • Lesson 183: An online video you learned something from▶️

    👇Driving?🚗Jogging? 🏃Click the button for hands-free training!👇

    This week we’re looking at a Part 2 cue card on the topic of ‘an online video you learned something from’.

    Step 1: Tune in to this week’s lesson. (Audio and video version below.)

    This week’s cue card:

    Describe a video you watched online that you learned something from. You should say

    – when you watched it
    – what the video was about
    – what you learned from it
    and explain how you felt after watching the video.

    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!🗣️📲

    About a year ago, I had a flat tyre while driving on a quiet road, and I realised I didn’t know how to change it. Luckily, I had my phone with me, so I searched for a tutorial online. I found a clear, step-by-step guide explaining how to change a tyre.


    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 video you watched online that you learned something from. You should say

    – when you watched it
    – what the video was about
    – what you learned from it
    and explain how you felt after watching the video.

    About a year ago, I had a flat tyre while driving on a quiet road, and I realised I didn’t know how to change it. Luckily, I had my phone with me, so I searched for a tutorial online. I found a clear, step-by-step guide explaining how to change a tyre.

    The video was hosted by a mechanic, and he started the video with an explanation of what tools were needed, such as the spare tyre, a jack and a lug wrench. He then demonstrated how to safely position the jack under the car, loosen the lug nuts, and remove the damaged tyre. The presenter also emphasised safety tips, like ensuring the car was on a flat surface and using hazard lights to alert other drivers.

    From this video, I learned how to change a tyre from start to finish. I discovered the importance of loosening the lug nuts before lifting the car and how to tighten them in a crisscross pattern to ensure the new tyre was securely attached.

    This video was incredibly practical, and it gave me a sense of confidence and preparedness for future situations. It’s a very basic skill that I’m glad I learned, and I now make sure to check my car’s tools regularly to be ready for any emergencies.

  • Lesson 181: Museums (Recent IELTS Speaking Part 3 question)

    👇Driving?🚗Jogging? 🏃Click the button for hands-free training!👇

    This week we’re looking at Part 3 questions on the topic of ‘museums’. This was a topic seen on a very recent IELTS Speaking exam!

    Step 1: Tune in to this week’s lesson. (Audio and video version below.)

    This week’s Part 3 questions:

    Should museums charge admission fees, or should they be free for citizens?
    Do you think making museums free could increase tourism within a country?
    How can the cost of visiting cultural sites affect tourism?
    What kinds of museums do you most enjoy visiting?
    Would you ever like to work in a museum?
    Do museums play an important role in society?

    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!🗣️📲

    “In my opinion, museums should ideally be free for citizens, as this promotes greater access to cultural and historical knowledge. This is essential for fostering a well-informed and culturally aware society.”


    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

    Should museums charge admission fees, or should they be free for citizens?

    In my opinion, museums should ideally be free for citizens, as this promotes greater access to cultural and historical knowledge. This is essential for fostering a well-informed and culturally aware society.

    Do you think making museums free could increase tourism within a country?

    Yes, I do believe that making museums free could be a draw for tourists. Many travellers look for ways to immerse themselves in a country’s heritage, and free museum access could be a strong incentive.

    How can the cost of visiting cultural sites affect tourism?

    I think high entry fees may discourage some visitors, leading them to seek more affordable activities. When cultural sites are priced modestly, it makes it possible for tourists of all backgrounds to enjoy and learn about a place’s history, art and culture.

    What kinds of museums do you most enjoy visiting?

    I am most drawn to art museums and history museums. Art museums captivate me with their diverse collections that span centuries and continents, offering insight into various cultures and artistic movements. History museums, on the other hand, fascinate me with their focus on the evolution of life and ancient civilizations.

    Would you ever like to work in a museum?

    Yes, working in a museum is something I would definitely consider. Museums are treasure troves of knowledge, and the idea of contributing to the preservation of history and culture is very appealing. I also think I would enjoy helping visitors connect with the past in meaningful ways.

    Do museums play an important role in society?

    Absolutely. Museums play a vital role in society by preserving history and educating the public. They safeguard artifacts that might otherwise be lost to time. Museums also provide a shared space for learning and reflection.

  • Lesson 177: A website you regularly visit🖥️

    👇Driving?🚗Jogging? 🏃Click the button for hands-free training!👇

    This week you will train to respond to a Part 2 cue card on the topic of ‘a website you regularly visit.’

    Step 1: Tune in to this week’s lesson. (Audio and video version below.)

    Describe a website that you regularly visit.
    You should say:
    What the website is
    What you use it for
    Why you like it
    And explain how it benefits you.

    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!🗣️📲
    One website that I frequently visit is Coursera.com. It’s an online learning platform that offers a wide range of courses across various disciplines.
    I primarily use Coursera for continuing my education. It offers a rich collection of courses that are both theoretical and practical, covering topics like machine learning, artificial intelligence and statistical analysis.

    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 website that you regularly visit.
    You should say:
    What the website is
    What you use it for
    Why you like it
    And explain how it benefits you.

    One website that I frequently visit is Coursera.com. It’s an online learning platform that offers a wide range of courses across various disciplines.

    I primarily use Coursera for continuing my education. It offers a rich collection of courses that are both theoretical and practical, covering topics like machine learning, artificial intelligence and statistical analysis. The interactive learning approach, including hands-on projects and quizzes, has been instrumental in enhancing my knowledge.

    What I appreciate most about this website is its flexibility. Being able to learn at my own pace is incredibly convenient. Additionally, the platform often provides certificates upon completion, which helps me build a credible portfolio. This is a real advantage in today’s competitive job market.

    Coursera has benefited me immensely, and it was key to my career transition into data science. It has broadened my knowledge base, introduced me to real-world applications and improved my confidence in handling complex techniques. Moreover, the global network of learners allows me to collaborate with and learn from others who share similar interests. It’s a website that I would highly recommend.

  • Lesson 176: How to talk about your childhood🧒

    👇Driving?🚗Jogging? 🏃Click the button for hands-free training!👇

    This week, we’re looking at a new exam. In this exam, the examiner asks you to talk about your childhood.

    Step 1: Tune in to this week’s lesson. (Audio and video version below.)

    This week’s Part 1 questions:
    Where are you from?
    Do you work or study?
    Do you enjoy studying this?
    Let’s talk about childhood. Did you have a happy childhood?
    What kind of things did you enjoy doing as a child?
    Did you have any childhood dreams about your future career?
    Did you help your parents with any kind of work when you were a child?
    Are there any skills you learned as a child that are helpful to you today?

    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!🗣️📲
    Where are you from?
    I’m from Romania, a country known for its rich history and beautiful landscapes.
    Do you work or study?
    At the moment, I’m studying data science. It’s a field that combines statistics, programming and analytical thinking to solve complex problems.

    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’m from Romania, a country known for its rich history and beautiful landscapes.

    Do you work or study?

    At the moment, I’m studying data science. It’s a field that combines statistics, programming and analytical thinking to solve complex problems.

    Do you enjoy studying this?

    Yes, I really enjoy studying data science. It allows me to work on real-world problems by analysing data patterns. I use these patterns to support decision making, and I find this really rewarding.

    Let’s talk about childhood. Did you have a happy childhood?

    Yes, I had a very happy childhood. I was fortunate to grow up in a supportive family. I have many fond memories of exploring forests and hills with my friends and family.

    What kind of things did you enjoy doing as a child?

    As a child, I loved exploring the outdoors. I also enjoyed reading, playing board games and working on little projects or hobbies with my friends.

    Did you have any childhood dreams about your future career?

    Yes, I did. At one point, I wanted to be an engineer because I enjoyed building things and solving problems. Later on, I became fascinated by computers and technology, which naturally led me to the field of data science.

    Did you help your parents with any kind of work when you were a child?

    I often helped around the house with chores. Because I was only a child, I did simple jobs like cleaning and helping my parents with tasks in the garden. We also had a pet dog that I was responsible for feeding and walking.

    Are there any skills you learned as a child that are helpful to you today?

    Definitely. Problem-solving was something that I started practising as a child through activities like puzzles and strategy games, and it’s a skill that is invaluable in data science. Also, the discipline I gained from helping my parents with chores has been crucial in managing my time and staying organised while studying. These basic skills are absolutely critical to me today.

  • Lesson 175: Animals and society🐡

    👇Driving?🚗Jogging? 🏃Click the button for hands-free training!👇

    This week, we’re finishing up the exam we’ve been analysing for the past few weeks. The topic once again involves animals.

    Step 1: Tune in to this week’s lesson. (Audio and video version below.)

    This week’s Part 3 questions:
    In what ways can animals be helpful to humans in daily life?
    Do you think schools should teach children about interacting with animals? Why or why not?
    How has the role of animals in society changed over the years in your country?
    What are your views on keeping wild animals in captivity for entertainment purposes?
    How important is it to protect endangered animal species?

    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!🗣️📲

    “Animals play a pivotal role in various aspects of human life. For example, domesticated animals like dogs and cats provide emotional support and companionship, which can significantly improve mental health. In rural areas, animals such as horses and donkeys are used for farming, making daily tasks more manageable. Additionally, animals contribute to human well-being through service roles. Guide dogs, for instance, allow visually impaired people to navigate their environment.”

    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

    In what ways can animals be helpful to humans in daily life?

    Animals play a pivotal role in various aspects of human life. For example, domesticated animals like dogs and cats provide emotional support and companionship, which can significantly improve mental health. In rural areas, animals such as horses and donkeys are used for farming, making daily tasks more manageable. Additionally, animals contribute to human well-being through service roles. Guide dogs, for instance, allow visually impaired people to navigate their environment.

    Do you think schools should teach children about interacting with animals?

    Yes, I do. Teaching children how to interact with animals can foster a sense of empathy and responsibility. By learning about animals’ needs and the proper way to care for them, children develop an appreciation for other living beings. I think this helps children develop into kind, compassionate adults.

    How has the role of animals in society changed over the years in your country?

    In the past, animals were largely seen as working partners, especially in rural communities where they were essential for farming and transportation. However, with modernisation, machines have largely taken over these roles, and now people more see animals as companions. Today, many laws have been enacted to protect animals, so the shift in opinion in my country has been pretty dramatic.

    What are your views on keeping wild animals in captivity for entertainment purposes?

    I believe keeping wild animals in captivity purely for entertainment purposes is ethically questionable. Many animals in zoos and circuses endure environments that are drastically different from their natural habitats. I think we should shift our focus towards more humane and educational alternatives, such as wildlife documentaries and virtual reality experiences. This would allow people to learn about wild animals without causing harm.

    How important is it to protect endangered animal species?

    Protecting endangered species is of paramount importance. Each species plays a unique role in maintaining ecological balance. For instance, the extinction of a predator can lead to overpopulation of prey, which can in turn lead to habitat destruction. I believe there is also an ethical responsibility to preserve the incredible variety of life on Earth for future generations to appreciate.

  • Lesson 170: Being courteous🙂

    👇Driving?🚗Jogging? 🏃Click the button for hands-free training!👇

    This week we’re looking at Part 1 questions on the topic of courtesy.

    Step 1: Tune in to this week’s podcast episode (audio and video version below).

    Part 1 questions
    Where are you from?
    Do you work or are you a student?
    What hobbies do you enjoy in your free time?
    Do any of your hobbies involve interacting with other people?
    Let’s talk about etiquette. How important is it to be courteous in everyday interactions?
    Is having good manners helpful to people?
    What is considered courteous behaviour in your culture?
    🧑‍🎓Target language:

    if given the choice (phrase)
    -used to express a preference

    “We exchange tips on the best routes and sometimes hike together although if given the choice I prefer to hike alone.”

    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!🗣️📲

    “I’m originally from Hella, a small and charming town in southern Iceland. It’s known for its close proximity to beautiful waterfalls and volcanic landscapes.”

    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’m originally from Hella, a small and charming town in southern Iceland. It’s known for its close proximity to beautiful waterfalls and volcanic landscapes.

    Do you work or are you a student?

    I work as a librarian in a local library. I enjoy helping people find the information they need and organising events that promote literacy and learning within the community.

    What hobbies do you enjoy in your free time?

    In my free time, I like to hike. The area around my town offers some fantastic hiking along scenic river trails. Hiking allows me to unwind and stay active.

    Do any of your hobbies involve interacting with other people?

    Yes, hiking often involves social interaction, especially when I join group hikes or meet other hikers on the trails. We exchange tips on the best routes and sometimes hike together although if given the choice I prefer to hike alone.

    Let’s talk about etiquette. How important is it to be courteous in everyday interactions?

    In my opinion, it is extremely important. Courtesy fosters respect and harmony, and this can make everyday interactions more pleasant and productive.

    Is having good manners helpful to people?

    Definitely. Good manners are key to creating a respectful environment and can help to avoid misunderstandings. When we practice good manners, we show that we value others’ time and their perspectives, which in turn encourages others to treat us with the same respect.

    What is considered courteous behavior in your culture?

    In Icelandic culture, courteous behaviour includes practices such as greeting others warmly, being punctual, and respecting others’ personal space. For example, when entering a room or meeting someone, it’s customary to greet them with a handshake and a smile. Icelanders also value straightforwardness and honesty, so being direct but polite is considered courteous. Additionally, saying “takk”, which is “thank you” in Icelandic, for any kind of help is a common way to show appreciation.

  • Lesson 167: A party you attended🕺

    This week, you will train to speak about a party you attended. This is a band 9 response scripted in response to a real IELTS Speaking Part 2 cue card.

    Step 1: Tune in to this week’s podcast episode (audio version below).

    Talk about a party you attended at some point in the past. You should say:
    -what the party was for
    -why you attended this party
    -what happened at the party
    and explain how you felt about the party
    🧑‍🎓Target language:

    profoundly (adv.)
    -in a significant or important way

    “He was a mentor and a guide who profoundly influenced my academic and personal growth.”

    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!🗣️📲

    “An important party I attended in the past was a surprise retirement celebration for my favourite university professor, Dr Ken Williams. The party honoured Dr Williams’ remarkable career and contributions to the field of literature over the past 40 years.”

    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

    Talk about a party you attended at some point in the past. You should say:
    -what the party was for
    -why you attended this party
    -what happened at the party
    and explain how you felt about the party

    An important party I attended in the past was a surprise retirement celebration for my favourite university professor, Dr Ken Williams. The party honoured Dr Williams’ remarkable career and contributions to the field of literature over the past 40 years. This event took place about a year ago in the lobby of my professor’s university department and was organised by his colleagues and former students.

    I attended this party because Dr Williams was more than just a professor to me. He was a mentor and a guide who profoundly influenced my academic and personal growth. Being part of this celebration was my way of showing appreciation for everything he had done for us.

    The party itself was an unforgettable experience. The evening began with a heartfelt speech by the dean, followed by a series of tributes from former students and colleagues. There was a slideshow highlighting his career achievements and memorable moments from his teaching years.

    Reflecting on this experience, I feel incredibly honoured and grateful to have been a part of such a special occasion. The party was a beautiful tribute to a remarkable individual who had made a lasting impact on so many lives. It was not only a great celebration but also a reminder of the importance of appreciating those who inspire us.

  • Lesson 166: An educational experience that impacted you professionally 🧑‍🎓

    This week, you will train to speak about your education. This is a great exercise to help with job interviews in English as well. Speaking at length about your education is not uncommon when interviewing with a potential employer.

    Step 1: Tune in to this week’s podcast episode (audio and video version below).

    Talk about an important educational experience you had that impacted you as a person or a professional. You should say:
    -what the experience was
    -when you had this experience
    -how this experience impacted you
    -and how you feel about this experience
    🧑‍🎓Target language:

    keen on
    -interested in

    “I am also sincerely keen on pursuing computer science as a career.”

    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!🗣️📲

    “An important educational experience that impacted me professionally was a first-year university course I took in computer programming. This experience took place during my first semester at university around four years ago.”

    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

    Talk about an important educational experience you had that impacted you as a person or a professional. You should say:
    -what the experience was
    -when you had this experience
    -how this experience impacted you
    -and how you feel about this experience

    An important educational experience that impacted me professionally was a first-year university course I took in computer programming. This experience took place during my first semester at university around four years ago.

    The course was an introduction to the fundamentals of Java programming. It covered essential concepts such as object-oriented programming and a variety of data structures. Initially, I enrolled in the class because I had a general interest in technology, but I had little experience with programming. As the semester progressed, I found myself increasingly fascinated by the logical and creative aspects of coding.

    Academically, it opened my eyes to the world of computer science. This newfound interest led me to pursue further courses in computer science, and I ultimately ended up changing my major to the subject. I now am a very skilled programmer and have built several programs that are quite popular online. I am also sincerely keen on pursuing computer science as a career.

    Reflecting on this experience, I feel immensely grateful and inspired. The course not only expanded my academic and career prospects but also contributed significantly to my personal growth.