Category Archives: Family

Lesson 176: How to talk about your childhood🧒

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Non-stop shadowing lessons!

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.
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Step 5: It’s very important that you note any new language items or pronunciation points from this week’s lesson in your journal to help you chronicle your improvement.📝

Transcript

Where are you from?

I’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 159: How is success defined in your culture?🏆

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In this lesson, you will practise speaking about success and how it is defined in your culture. This lesson uses a sample band 9 demonstration for Part 3 of the IELTS Speaking exam.

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

Part 3 Questions

On what occasions do people congratulate someone in your culture?
How do people offer congratulations in your culture?
Is success important in your culture?
How do people achieve success in their lives?
What factors contribute to a person’s success?
Do people need motivation to succeed in their work?
🧑‍🎓Target language:

perseverance (adjective)
-persistence in doing something despite difficulty

“People achieve success through education and perseverance.”

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 culture, people offer congratulations for anything that’s a significant life milestone. So for example, academic events like graduation, professional achievements such as a promotion, and personal events such as a wedding would all be causes for celebration.”
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Step 5: It’s very important that you note any new language items or pronunciation points from this week’s lesson in your journal to help you chronicle your improvement.📝

Transcript

On what occasions do people congratulate someone in your culture?
In my culture, people offer congratulations for anything that’s a significant life milestone. So for example, academic events like graduation, professional achievements such as a promotion, and personal events such as a wedding would all be causes for celebration.

How do people offer congratulations in your culture?
People offer congratulations verbally, through written messages like cards, and by giving flowers. Public acknowledgments during gatherings or on social media are also common. The method often depends on the occasion and the relationship between individuals.

Is success important in your culture?
Yes, success is highly valued as it reflects hard work and dedication. It brings honour to individuals and their families, motivating others to strive for excellence. Achievements in education, career, and personal life are particularly celebrated in my culture.

How do people achieve success in their lives?
People achieve success through education and perseverance. Continuous learning is particularly important, along with building strong relationships. I think adaptability when facing challenges is also crucial.

What factors contribute to a person’s success?
I would say education and determination are key factors. Opportunities for growth and access to resources significantly influence success, too. There’s a saying in my culture that goes “you can only be as successful as your environment will allow,” which I think is very true.

Do people need motivation to succeed in their work?
Yes, motivation is essential for achieving success because it drives individuals to work towards a goal. One of the most motivating workplaces I ever worked was at a company that provided a very positive work environment and an achievable performance bonus. In such a motivating environment, workers always successfully completed their tasks.

Thank you. That is the end of the speaking exam.

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

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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.

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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 142: Children and change👦

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This week’s lesson explores the topic of ‘children and change’. This exercise uses an IELTS Speaking Part 3 model.

Step 1: Listen to this week’s model and familiarise yourself with the target language.

Step 2: In this week’s episode of IELTSCast, you will practise saying the response to the first two questions.

Step 3: Now that you have worked through the target language several times, try the full ‘repeat after me’ lesson.

Step 4: Reread the transcript below and note any and all new or challenging language in your notebook. A key follow-up step over the next few weeks is to attempt to use this language in your own day-to-day speaking.

Step 5: Complete the speaking exercises in your private Whatsapp group. Listen to the feedback you get from your instructor.

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Transcript

Do you think children generally find it difficult to accept change?

I guess it depends on the nature of the change and a child’s individual temperament. In my view, the unfamiliarity of new situations can make major changes very difficult to accept for most children.

In your opinion, is a change of routine good for children?

Yes, I believe a change of routine can be beneficial for children. It exposes them to different experiences, which fosters adaptability and crucial life skills such as problem-solving. However, the key lies in maintaining a balance because too much change too quickly might overwhelm a child.

Do you think it takes a long time for children to adjust to a new school?

The time it takes for children to adjust to a new school can vary significantly. Some children may adapt quickly, forming new friendships and becoming acclimatised within a short period. Others may require more time, especially if they face challenges in establishing connections or adapting to a different academic curriculum.

What factors might influence their adjustment process?

Several factors can influence a child’s adjustment to a new school. The support system at home, including the involvement of parents and the overall family environment, plays a crucial role. Additionally, the school’s atmosphere, the friendliness of classmates and the effectiveness of teachers in facilitating integration can significantly impact a child’s ability to adjust.

Do you believe that children never fully adjust to moving to a new place?

While it may take time, I believe most children do eventually adjust to moving to a new place. Children are remarkably resilient, and with the right support, they can adapt successfully. The adjustment process might differ for each child, but with time, most children can overcome the challenges associated with relocating.

Can frequent changes in a child’s life impact their development?

Yes, frequent changes in a child’s life can indeed have an impact on their development. Consistent instability may lead to feelings of insecurity and anxiety, potentially affecting their emotional well-being. However, it’s essential to note that not all changes are detrimental. Adapting to different situations can also enhance a child’s problem-solving skills and resilience. Striking a balance and providing a stable foundation for children during periods of change is crucial to ensuring positive development outcomes.

Thank you.

Episode 136: Someone who loves cooking🍳

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It is not uncommon to see topics like ‘food’ and ‘cooking’ on the IELTS. Today, you will practise to speak about a person that deeply enjoys cooking. This training is for Part 2 of the speaking exam.

Step 1: As with each week, we will start this lesson by listening to the model.

Step 2: This week’s episode of IELTSCast gives you a few sample sentences with which to train your speaking. There is a transcript below you can refer to if needed.

Step 3: Below is this week’s full lesson. If you do not yet have access to these full lessons, please click here.

Step 4: Read through the below transcript. Be sure to note any and all new language you come across.

Step 5: We now have Whatsapp groups! Contact Ryan to be added!

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Transcript

Describe someone who loves cooking. You should say:
-who this person is
-what kinds of dishes they usually cook
-who they usually cook for
And explain why you think this person enjoys cooking so much

I would like to talk about my aunt, Lauren, who is an ardent lover of cooking. She is a middle-aged woman with a passion for culinary arts that is truly inspiring.

Auntie Lauren is an exceptional cook and her culinary skills encompass a wide range of dishes from various cuisines. However, her specialty lies in preparing exquisite Italian dishes, particularly pasta and homemade pizzas. The aroma of her cooking often fills the entire house, creating an inviting atmosphere that captivates everyone’s senses.

Most frequently, she dedicates her culinary expertise to her immediate family – her husband and three children. Sunday dinners at her house have become a cherished tradition, with family members eagerly anticipating anything she prepares.

The reason behind Auntie Lauren’s unwavering love for cooking can be attributed to her belief that food has the power to bring people together. I think for her, cooking is a form of expression, a way to show love and care for those around her. Furthermore, my aunt once told me she views cooking as a therapeutic activity, a creative outlet through which she can experiment with flavours. She takes great pleasure in the entire process – from selecting the freshest ingredients to meticulously crafting each dish with precision and passion.

In conclusion, my aunt is a remarkable individual who loves cooking not only for the sheer joy it brings her but also as a means to connect with others.

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 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.

Chat on WhatsApp

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 107: A gift of money💰

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

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

Step 1: Listen to the full sample.

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

Step 3: (Full lesson temporarily unavailable.)

Step 4: Read through the below transcript.

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

Transcript

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

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

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

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

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

Lesson 94: Your name🧑

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

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

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

Step 3: Work through the full exercise below.

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

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

Chat on WhatsApp

Transcript

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you.

Lesson 80: A story someone told you🦋

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This week, you will practise responding to the following Part 2 cue card:

Talk about a story someone told you that you remember well. Please say:
-what the story is about
-who told you the story
-when he/she told you the story
-and explain why you remember it so well

Step 1: Tune in to this week’s podcast episode (audio and video version below) to become familiar with the speech sample. This episode will also push you to practise saying a few sentences from the model.

Step 2: If at any time you’d like to hear the original sample without pauses, you can listen to it here.

Step 3: Work through this week’s full exercise.

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!📲

“This story was told to me several years ago. It is nothing short of incredible, and I’d have a hard time believing it had actually happened if it weren’t my brother who told me.”
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Transcript

Talk about a story someone told you that you remember well. Please say:
-what the story is about
-who told you the story
-when he/she told you the story
-and explain why you remember it so well

“This story was told to me several years ago. It is nothing short of incredible, and I’d have a hard time believing it had actually happened if it weren’t my brother who told me.

My brother had planned to propose to his girlfriend of several years, and he put the engagement ring in his pocket hoping to surprise her when they met later that day. His girlfriend worked at the public transit depot in our city, so my brother’s plan was to take the bus to her office and walk with her to a park nearby where they could picnic and he could ask her to marry him.

Unfortunately, when he went to put his coins into the bus’s fare repository, he accidentally dropped the engagement ring in too! He realised it a minute later and told the driver who radioed to have someone ready at the terminal station to open the repository and retrieve the ring.

When the bus pulled into the transit depot, my brother’s girlfriend was standing there. The ring was quickly retrieved and my brother proposed to her right there on the spot!

My brother and his wife remain happily married to this day, so as you can imagine this story is a cherished family memory that gets told a lot.”