Category Archives: Hometown/Country

Lesson 145: Music in your country🪕

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

Step 1: Listen to the full sample.

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

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

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

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

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Transcript

What is your name?

My name is Ryan.

Where are you from?

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

What do you do? Work or study?

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

What do you like about your studies?

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

What type of music do you enjoy listening to?

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

When do you usually listen to music?

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

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

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

Have you ever learned to play a musical instrument?

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

Do many people in your country enjoy music?

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

Thank you.

Lesson 126: Your hometown and drinks🍵

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This week, you will train to speak about the topic of ‘drinks’.

Step 1: Listen to the full sample response from start to finish.

Step 2: Now listen to this week’s IELTSCast episode and practise the sample ‘repeat after me’ sentences from the model.

Step 3: Complete the full video lesson here:

Step 4: Read through the transcript below and note all new language in your notebook. Any questions can be posted here as a comment.

Step 5: If you have been added to a Whatsapp group, submit this week’s speech exercises to your instructor.

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Transcript

Where you are from?

I am originally from a picturesque town in the heart of England called Stratford-upon-Avon.

Do you work or study?

Currently, I am pursuing my studies. I am enrolled in a postgraduate programme in Environmental Science at a local university.

What is your hometown like?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a charming town with a rich history. It’s renowned as the birthplace of William Shakespeare and is known for its well preserved Tudor-style architecture. The town is nestled along the tranquil banks of the River Avon, and its cobblestone streets are lined with quaint shops and theaters.

Do you enjoy living in your hometown?

I absolutely adore living in my hometown. The blend of history, culture and the welcoming community makes it a delightful place to call home.

How has your hometown changed over the years?

Over the years, Stratford-upon-Avon has seen some positive changes. There has been an effort to preserve and restore historic buildings, which has boosted tourism. Additionally, the town has embraced more eco-friendly initiatives, promoting green spaces and sustainability.

What kind of accommodation do most people in your hometown live in?

The majority of residents in Stratford-upon-Avon live in traditional houses, often Tudor-style or Georgian architecture. However, there are also modern apartments and townhouses available.

Let’s talk about drinks. What is your favourite drink?

My favourite drink without a doubt is a well-brewed cup of Earl Grey tea. I take it with milk and find it to be soothing and refreshing.

Did you prefer different drinks as a child?

As a child, my preferences were quite different. I used to enjoy fruit juices and fizzy drinks, particularly orange juice and lemonade.

Do you think it is important to drink lots of water?

Yes, I firmly believe that staying hydrated is crucial for overall health. Water is essential for bodily functions, and it helps to maintain proper digestion, skin health and mental clarity.

Lesson 117: Computers🖥️

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This lesson examines a very common topic: computers. The model is structured around Part 1 questions that were recently seen on an actual IELTS Speaking exam.

Step 1: Listen to the model and note any new language you come across.

Step 2: Tune in to this week’s episode of IELTSCast and work through the free sample exercise.

Step 3: Below is this week’s full exercise. Remember that it can be helpful to redo the exercise (or portions of the exercise) repeatedly to help further refine your speaking. Any questions you have can be posted as a comment on this lesson.

Step 4: Read through the below transcript. It can be helpful to print lesson transcripts out for annotation purposes. Be sure to identify to yourself areas that are new or challenging so that you can work to include these items in your own day-to-day speaking.

Step 5: Your Whatsapp instructor will post five speaking exercises to your group. Post your daily speech sample and look for your personalised feedback.

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Transcript

Where do you live?

I currently reside in Frankfurt, which is located in Germany. It’s a bustling city known for its diverse multicultural community.

Do you work or are you a student?

I’m a dedicated student at the University of Frankfurt, pursuing a degree in computer science. This academic journey is a vital step towards realising my passion for innovation in the technology sector.

What is your favourite subject to study?

Among the subjects I’m studying, I have a particular fondness for economics. Its intricate analysis of market dynamics and its impact on society intrigue me. I’m constantly motivated to delve deeper into the complexities of supply and demand, and how economic policies shape our world.

You said that you are interested in technology, were you passionate about it from a young age?

Yes, indeed. Since my childhood, I’ve harboured an unwavering fascination for technology. From experimenting with simple gadgets to immersing myself in programming, my passion for technology has been an integral part of my life’s journey.

What do you prefer to use, a tablet or a computer, and why?

While both tablets and computers have their merits, I tend to gravitate towards computers. The robust processing power and versatile capabilities of a computer are indispensable for tasks such as software development and data analysis. Additionally, the ergonomic comfort of a full-sized keyboard and larger screen contribute to my productivity.

When did you start using computers?

My initiation into the world of computers began around the age of 10. It all started with basic operations and gradually expanded to more advanced functions and applications.

Do you think spending a lot of time on a computer is useful?

Spending a significant amount of time on a computer can indeed yield substantial benefits, provided it’s approached with purpose and balance. Computers have revolutionised various domains, enabling efficient research, communication and innovation. However, it’s imperative to strike a harmony between screen time and other aspects of a balanced life, such as physical activities and social interactions. This can help ensure a more holistic sense of well-being.

Thank you.

Lesson 115: Your work, zoos and animals🦁

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Over the last two years, the topic of ‘animals’ has come up a few times in IELTS Speaking. In the below sample, this topic is narrowed to the subjects of ‘zoos’ and ‘wild animals’.

Step 1: Listen to this week’s sample.

Step 2: Watch the video version of this week’s podcast episode. Work through the sample speech shadowing exercise.

Step 3: Work through the full version of the exercise using the below video. (Click here if you do not yet have access to these full exercises.)

Step 4: Read through the below transcript and make note of any language items that were new or challenging for you this week.

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

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Transcript

Do you work or study?

I currently work as a retail sales associate for a well-known store in my city.

Where do you work?

I work at a hardware store that is located in the bustling commercial district of my city.

What do you like about your work?

Firstly, I love interacting with different customers daily and assisting them in finding products that suit their needs. It gives me great satisfaction to see customers leave the store happy with their purchases. Additionally, the retail industry allows me to stay updated with the latest trends and products, which aligns perfectly with my interest in home repairs and hobbyist activities. Moreover, the camaraderie among my colleagues creates a pleasant and supportive work environment, making each day enjoyable.

What would make your work more interesting?

While I find my work already fascinating, I believe it would become even more interesting with the implementation of regular training sessions. Learning about new sales techniques, customer service approaches and product knowledge would help me excel in my role and better serve our customers. Furthermore, having opportunities to attend industry events or participate in merchandising decisions would add a creative and dynamic aspect to my work, making it more engaging and fulfilling. Let’s talk about zoos.

Have you ever been to a zoo?

Yes, I have. There isn’t a zoo in my city but I have driven to The Moscow Zoo several times, which is about 90 minutes away. I find zoos to be an enriching experience, offering a wonderful chance to observe and learn about various animal species from around the world.

What wild animals are commonly found in your country?

In Russia, we are fortunate to have diverse wildlife. Commonly found species include brown bears, wolves, reindeer, elk, and various bird species such as swans, hawks, and falcons. Our vast landscapes also host rare and endangered animals like Siberian tigers and snow leopards. I believe I saw all of these animals at the zoo I was mentioning before.

What wild animal from another country would you like to see in the future?

One wild animal from another country that I would love to see in the future is the graceful and elusive cheetah from Africa. Witnessing the fastest land animal in its natural habitat would be an extraordinary experience, and it would offer me a profound appreciation for wildlife preservation efforts across the globe.

Lesson 110: A popular TV show from your country📺

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This week’s lesson uses the following cue card to run you through the speech shadowing method:

Talk about a TV show that is popular in your country. You should say
-what show it is
-what the show is about
-why this show is popular in your country
-how you feel about this TV show

Step 1: Listen to the model and familiarize yourself with the language.

Step 2: Work through this week’s sample ‘repeat after me’ lesson.

Step 3: Now attempt the full exercise below.

Step 4: Read through the transcript included below. Note any of the language that you found challenging today.

Step 5: Complete all five of this week’s speech samples and post them in your Whatsapp group.

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Transcript

Talk about a TV show that is popular in your country. You should say
-what show it is
-what the show is about
-why this show is popular in your country
-how you feel about this TV show

I would like to talk about a popular TV show in my country, the Philippines, called ‘Brothers’. It is a widely acclaimed action-drama series that has garnered immense popularity among viewers nationwide. The show centers around the life of ‘Cardo’, a courageous police officer, as he fights crime and seeks justice in the bustling city of Manila.

Brothers captivated audiences in the Philippines for several reasons. Firstly, the show offers a compelling narrative that combines elements of action, suspense, and heartfelt drama. Each episode presents a new challenge for Cardo, who fearlessly battles corrupt officials, criminal syndicates, and personal adversities. The series keeps viewers hooked with its fast-paced plotlines, intense action sequences, and emotional character arcs.

Further, I think Brothers resonates with Filipino viewers due to its relatable themes and portrayal of societal issues. The show sheds light on the struggles faced by ordinary citizens, highlighting the complexities of urban life and the day-to-day challenges ordinary citizens face. It also captures the resilience and hard-working nature of the Filipino people, creating a strong emotional connection with local audiences as well as international audiences that are interested in Filipino pop culture. 

The success of Brothers can also be attributed to the exceptional performances of the cast. For example, Coco Martin’s portrayal of Officer Cardo has become iconic, earning him widespread praise for his dedication and versatility as an actor. Such performances as well as the show’s gripping storyline are what kept me on the edge of my seat while I was watching the show, and I am thus hardly surprised that the show gained such legacy in my country.

It is for these reasons that Brothers has secured itself as a significant part of the Filipino television landscape.

Lesson 102: Noise pollution🎺

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

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

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

Step 3: Work through the full exercise below.

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

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

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Transcript

Is noise pollution an issue where you live?

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

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

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

Can noise pollution affect people’s health?

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

How do you think noise pollution affects wildlife?

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

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

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

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

Lesson 100: Your hometown and noise🔊

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

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

Part 1 Questions

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

noise pollution (noun)
-a group of unpleasant sounds

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

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

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

Step 4: Below is Monday’s speech exercise. Post yourself saying this excerpt to your Whatsapp group. Exercises for Tuesday to Friday will be posted in the group by your instructor. (If you have not yet been added to a group, click here to sign up – select ‘Join a Whatsapp group’.)

Post yourself saying this into your Whatsapp group!🗣️📲

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

Transcript

Where are you from?

I am originally from the vibrant city of Toronto.

What is your hometown like?

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

Is your hometown peaceful or noisy?

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

What are the main sources of noise in your hometown?

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

Does the noise interfere with your daily life?

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

Do you like places that are peaceful?

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

Thank you.

Lesson 98: A recent development in your city🏙️

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

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

Step 1: Listen to the full sample.

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

Step 3: Complete the full speech shadowing exercise below.

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

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

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Transcript

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

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

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

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

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

Lesson 73: Sharing details about your workplace👨‍💼

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This is one of the most common topics in IELTS Speaking Part 1: your workplace! Use this week’s lesson to train for this critical exam topic.

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

Where are you from?
Do you work or study?
How do you feel at work?
What do you usually do at your workplace?
Would you change anything about your workplace?
Do you prefer to call a colleague on the phone or send them an email?
🧑‍🎓Target language:

when it rains it pours
-something that happens in small amounts and then unexpectedly in large amounts

“I would change the pace of the work. For some reason, when it rains it pours.”

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

Step 3: Engage this week’s full speech shadowing lesson.

Step 4: Below is Monday’s speech exercise. Post yourself saying this excerpt to your Whatsapp group. Exercises for Tuesday to Friday will be posted in the group by your instructor.

Post yourself saying this into your Whatsapp group!🗣️📲

“I am from a lovely seaside town about two hours from here.”
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Step 5: It’s very important that you note any new language items or pronunciation points from this week’s lesson in your journal to help you chronicle your improvement.📝

Transcript

Where are you from?

I am from a lovely seaside town about two hours from here.

Do you work or study?

I work as a lawyer in a large law firm.

How do you feel at work?

Usually, I feel very stressed. It’s a demanding job and when you know that someone’s freedom is at stake it can be very overwhelming.

What do you usually do at your workplace?

I spend a considerable amount of time on the computer, writing briefs, researching laws, precedents – anything that is relevant to the case I am representing. I also have meetings with clients and other lawyers. 

Would you change anything about your workplace?

I would change the pace of the work. For some reason, when it rains it pours. By that I mean that some periods are very slow and during other periods the workload seems insurmountable. 

Do you prefer to call a colleague on the phone or send them an email?

For work-related issues, I do both. I call the colleague to discuss and then I follow up with an email so that there is written documentation of our conversation. It is a bit tedious but absolutely necessary in my line of work.

Lesson 70: A favourite area in your home🏡

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This week focuses on a very common topic in IELTS: your home! (For more training about common topics like this, this English shadowing website lets you view lessons by category. Click here to try it out!)

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

Part 1 Questions

Where are you from?
Describe the house or apartment you are living in now.
Do you have a favourite room?
Is there anything you would change about your home?
Let’s talk about your hometown. Are there any old buildings in your hometown?
Can you describe any old buildings in your hometown?
🧑‍🎓Target language:

near and dear to my heart
-something you treasure and consider very important

“It also houses my collection of vinyl records which is near and dear to my heart.”

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

Step 3: Engage this week’s full speech shadowing lesson.

Step 4: Below is Monday’s speech exercise. Post yourself saying this excerpt to your Whatsapp group. Exercises for Tuesday to Friday will be posted in the group by your instructor.

Post yourself saying this into your Whatsapp group!🗣️📲

“I live in a relatively small flat. It has two bedrooms, a bath, a living area and a kitchen. There is a park in front of the building, so I get to enjoy the view of trees and flowers from the window.”
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Step 5: It’s very important that you note any new language items or pronunciation points from this week’s lesson in your journal to help you chronicle your improvement.📝

Transcript

Where are you from?

I am originally from a city two hours away from here, but for the last 20 years I have called this city home.

Describe the house or apartment you are living in now.

I live in a relatively small flat. It has two bedrooms, a bath, a living area and a kitchen. There is a park in front of the building, so I get to enjoy the view of trees and flowers from the window.

Do you have a favourite room?

I would say the second bedroom is my favourite because that is where my computer is and where I play video games, listen to music – it is where I go to unwind. It also houses my collection of vinyl records which is near and dear to my heart.

Is there anything you would change about your home?

I do enjoy my view but I have always wanted a house along the sea, so I would probably change the location of my home, if anything. Fortunately, the sea is only a few minutes away from my flat, so I’ve managed to make do.

Let’s talk about your hometown. Are there any old buildings in your hometown?

There are quite a few actually, and they are recognised by UNESCO as having historical significance. Some of these buildings date back to Roman times. I guess you could say my hometown is an open museum and tourists from all over the world flock to the city to see its sites.

Can you describe any old buildings in your hometown?

Well, the famous walls of the city are some of the oldest structures where I live. There used to be seven kilometers of stone wall, but now only four remain. Soldiers would watch from the fortresses to warn of any invaders coming from either land or sea. Nowadays, locals and tourists visit the walls to see the site but also to enjoy breathtaking views of the city and the sea below.

Thank you.