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

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  • Lesson 154: Transportation🚇

    This week’s lesson examines the topic of ‘transportation’. These questions were taken from a recent IELTS exam and –as always– the suggested responses were written by a former IELTS Speaking exam at the band 9 level.

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

    Part 1 Questions

    Do you work or study?
    Where are you from?
    What type of job do you have?
    Is it easy to find a job in your hometown?
    Let’s talk about transportation. What type of transportation did you use to get to your test centre today?
    Do you usually use this form of transportation?
    Are there any forms of transportation you prefer not to use?
    🧑‍🎓Target language:

    on the spot
    -without any delay

    “They gave me the job on the spot!”

    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 actually do both at the moment. I study business administration and am currently working at a small cafe near my apartment.”
    Chat on WhatsApp

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

    Transcript

    Do you work or study?

    I actually do both at the moment. I study business administration and am currently working at a small cafe near my apartment.

    Where are you from?

    I’m from this city, London. I’m very much a proud Londoner, and to me London is a place that will always feel like home.

    What type of job do you have?

    My job is not very exciting. I wash dishes in the cafe I was mentioning. It’s really just a job to help fund my schooling.

    Is it easy to find a job in your hometown?

    I think it depends on what you’re looking for. Securing employment in London can be competitive in specialised fields, but other industries are desperately in need of workers. For example, I got my job at the cafe just by asking whether they were hiring. They gave me the job on the spot! So I think the time and effort required to find a job really is relevant to the type of work a person is pursuing.

    Let’s talk about transportation. What type of transportation did you use to get to your test centre today?

    Today, I used the subway to reach this test center. In London, we lovingly call it ‘The Tube’ and its known for its punctuality, cleanliness and extensive coverage of the city.

    Do you usually use this form of transportation?

    Yes, I frequently rely on the Tube for my daily commute. Its reliability and efficiency make it my preferred mode of transportation for navigating the city’s busy streets and reaching my destination in a timely manner.

    Are there any forms of transportation you prefer not to use?

    While I appreciate the convenience of most transportation options available in London, there are certain forms I tend to avoid, such as buses. During peak hours, the buses in London are way too crowded for comfort. I’m also not a fan of taxis. I just find them overpriced and not much faster than other transportation types. Those would be the two I’d most prefer not to use.

    Thank you.

  • Lesson 151: Drawing🎨

    This week’s lesson pushes you to train to speak about a common hobby: drawing. As you will hear in the sample, the candidate isn’t super enthusiastic about drawing, and they skillfully use language choices to express this.

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

    Part 1 Questions

    Do you work or study?
    Why did you choose this job?
    Let’s talk about drawing. Do you like drawing?
    What do you draw?
    Are there benefits to drawing?
    Is it important to teach children how to draw?
    Is it important for adults to be able to draw?
    🧑‍🎓Target language:

    doodle
    -a rough drawing made absentmindedly

    “I might doodle an animal one day and a busy city street the next.”

    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.

    Post yourself saying this into your Whatsapp group!🗣️📲

    “I do draw on occasion, and I would say I like it for the most part. The act of sketching allows me to unwind and unleash my creativity, but I have to admit I’m not particularly talented at it.”
    Chat on WhatsApp

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

    Transcript

    Do you work or study?

    I work as a server at a popular dining establishment in the heart of the city. My role involves providing exceptional customer service, taking orders and ensuring a pleasant dining experience for patrons.

    Why did you choose this job?

    The decision to pursue a career in the restaurant industry was influenced by my passion for hospitality and interpersonal interaction. I thrive in environments where I can engage with people from diverse backgrounds and cater to their needs with warmth and professionalism. Let’s talk about drawing.

    Do you like drawing?

    I do draw on occasion, and I would say I like it for the most part. The act of sketching allows me to unwind and unleash my creativity, but I have to admit I’m not particularly talented at it.

    What do you draw?

    I don’t usually plan out my drawings ahead of time, so they tend to encompass a wide array of subjects. I might doodle an animal one day and a busy city street the next. I think the last time I drew something it was a cross section of a house, where you could see the rooms inside and what was going on.

    Are there benefits to drawing?

    Drawing offers a multitude of benefits beyond its artistic appeal. Engaging in drawing promotes mindfulness and relaxation, and I feel it serves as a therapeutic outlet for stress relief and self-expression. Moreover, it enhances cognitive skills such as observation, spatial reasoning and problem-solving, and this can encourage mental agility and creative thinking.

    Is it important to teach children how to draw?

    Yes, it certainly is. Nurturing children’s drawing skills is essential for their holistic development and self-discovery. For example, drawing encourages imagination, fine motor skills and visual literacy, and I believe these skills provide a foundation for creative expression and critical thinking.

    Is it important for adults to be able to draw?

    I wouldn’t say it is critically important, but it can be a useful skill to have in certain personal and professional contexts. Being capable of sketching concepts –such as business ideas or flooring layouts in an office– enhances communication, problem-solving and innovation. As I mentioned before, it could be a source of relaxation for certain people, too.

    Thank you.

  • Lesson 147: Relaxation in your country🎣

    This week’s Part 3 model continues from last week’s cue card on the topic of ‘relaxation’.

    Step 1: Listen to the full sample band 9 response.

    Step 2: Tune in to this week’s podcast episode.

    Step 3: Complete the full exercise.

    Step 4: Read through the below transcript and make note of the new language you encountered this week.

    Step 5: Complete your five speaking exercises with your Whatsapp instructor. Here is the first exercise (due Monday night) :

    Chat on WhatsApp

    Transcript

    Are there many places for relaxation in your country that are well-known?

    Yes. Brazil has numerous well-known relaxation destinations that cater to a variety of tastes. There are natural landscapes, such as the beaches and forests in Rio de Janeiro, but also cultural spots like Sao Paulo Cathedral and various museums.

    What places for relaxation are popular with people in your country?

    I would say the beaches rank highly among locals as popular places for relaxation. Beach life offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Additionally, relaxation services such as those found in gyms and spas have gained popularity in recent years. I think people see these services as rejuvenating and good for physical health and mental well-being, and this is why they have become so popular.

    Why do people like to relax in different places?

    I believe this is influenced by a number of different factors. Some individuals gravitate towards natural settings like beaches and parks due to the calming effect of nature and the opportunity to get away from other people. Others seek relaxation in urban environments, and I think these personality types are more drawn to the vibrant energy that you can only find in cities. Ultimately, I think each person’s pathway to true relaxation is unique.

    Do you think relaxation is important?

    Without a doubt. Relaxation is paramount for maintaining overall health and well-being. Today’s fast-paced world is characterised by relentless work schedules and constant connectivity. Thus, taking time to unwind not only alleviates stress but also promotes mental clarity. I also think relaxation is important because it fosters creativity, enhances productivity and improves the overall quality of a person’s life.

    In your opinion, should employers pay for the relaxation of their employees?

    No. While some organisations may offer perks such as wellness programmes or flexible work arrangements, expecting employers to finance all relaxation activities is not practical for every business. Instead, employers can support employee well-being by fostering a supportive work environment and promoting healthy work practices.

    Thank you.

  • Lesson 145: Music in your country🪕

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

    Step 1: Listen to the full sample.

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

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

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

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

    Chat on WhatsApp

    Transcript

    What is your name?

    My name is Ryan.

    Where are you from?

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

    What do you do? Work or study?

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

    What do you like about your studies?

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

    What type of music do you enjoy listening to?

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

    When do you usually listen to music?

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

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

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

    Have you ever learned to play a musical instrument?

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

    Do many people in your country enjoy music?

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

    Thank you.

  • Lesson 143: Video games🎮

    A candidate reported being asked about ‘video games’ in a recent IELTS Speaking exam. This week, you will practise speaking about this topic.

    Step 1: Listen to the full sample. At this stage of the lesson, try to listen only and avoid referring to the transcript.

    Step 2: Listen to this week’s podcast episode and work through the short preview ‘repeat after me’ lesson.

    Step 3: Below is the full lesson. Maintain an active mindset as you work through this exercise. Note words, phrases or full sentences that you find difficult to pronounce and review these areas over the coming few days.

    Step 4: Now that you have actively listened to the sample and worked through the full exercise, read the below transcript and note any language items you still find challenging. Review the notes you’ve made in your journal regularly and make a conscious effort to include these areas in your own day-to-day speaking. Remember that it can be helpful to repeat the shadowing exercise from time to time to help maintain and reinforce the language you have learned today.

    Step 5: Your instructor will be posting a daily speech exercise to your Whatsapp group between Monday and Friday of this week. Practise the sample thoroughly and then post your own speaking sample. Make special note of the feedback the instructor returns to you.

    Chat on WhatsApp

    Transcript

    Do you work or are you a student?

    I’m a student pursuing a bachelor’s degree in computer science at the University of Lisbon.

    Do you play video games?

    Yes, I do enjoy playing video games. I find it’s a fantastic way to unwind and relax.

    What kind of games do you play?

    I have an eclectic taste in games, but I particularly enjoy strategic and simulation games. Titles like Civilization VI and Cities: Skylines are among my favourites.

    Do you have friends who are also into gaming?

    Yes. We regularly get together for multiplayer sessions and enjoy friendly competition.

    What types of games do you usually play with your friends?

    We typically engage in cooperative games or team-based multiplayer games. Games like Among Us or Overwatch are popular choices with us because these games can be played in less than 20 minutes and they allow us to work together as a team.

    Do you enjoy watching others play video games, like in live streams or gaming videos?

    Yes, I find it quite entertaining. It’s a great way to learn new strategies, discover hidden game features, and also enjoy the unique personalities of the content creators. However, I’m very busy with my studies these days, so I don’t tend to watch these types of videos very often.

    How much time do you typically spend gaming in a week?

    I try to strike a balance between my academic responsibilities and leisure activities. On average, I spend maybe five hours a week gaming. It serves as a rewarding break from my studies and allows me to stay connected with friends who share similar interests.

    Thank you.

  • Lesson 141: Something you bought that you cannot live without💻

    We once again are examining a band 9 response to Part 2 of the IELTS Speaking exam. Below is the cue card that appears in this lesson:

    Describe something that you bought that you now cannot live without. You should say:
    -what it is
    -why you bought it
    -how often you use it
    and explain why you cannot live without it.

    Step 1: Listen to this week’s sample response. (There is a transcript below for you to refer to should you need it.)

    Step 2: Below is this week’s IELTSCast episode. This episode includes a portion of the full ‘repeat after me’ exercise with which you can do some speech training.

    Step 3: Now try the full speech shadowing lesson.

    Step 4: Read through the below transcript again. Clearly note any new language you come across in your journal and actively try to include this language in your own day-to-day speaking.

    Step 5: Post your speech samples to your Whatsapp group. Your instructor will provide you with feedback.

    Chat on WhatsApp

    Transcript

    Describe something that you bought that you now cannot live without. You should say:
    -what it is
    -why you bought it
    -how often you use it
    and explain why you cannot live without it.

    I’d like to talk about my indispensable MacBook Air. I bought it approximately two years ago when I was in dire need of a reliable and portable computer.

    I guess I would say the primary motivator for this purchase was my transition into a more digital-centric lifestyle. I mentioned before that I’m a marketing specialist and, in the wake of COVID, it quickly became apparent to me that I would need a lightweight and powerful laptop to work from both my home and my office. Even though it was quite expensive, I decided on the MacBook Air due to its impressive performance and excellent battery life.

    On average, I use my MacBook Air for at least six to eight hours every day. It has become an integral part of my daily routine, serving not only as a workstation but also as a hub for all of my professional communication.

    The reason I cannot imagine my life without this device is the seamless integration it provides into various aspects of my daily activities. For the projects I work on, it allows me to bring my creative marketing visions to life. I also use it for personal endeavours. For example, I use it to stay in touch with friends and I often use it to order items from Amazon. It is for these reasons the device has become an irreplaceable tool in my life.

    My MacBook Air is an investment that not only met but exceeded my expectations. Its role in my daily activities has become so significant that I honestly cannot imagine navigating through life without it.

  • Lesson 140: Quiet places and sunglasses🕶️

    This week we are examining an IELTS Speaking Part 1 response that switches from the topic of ‘quiet places’ to the topic of ‘sunglasses’.

    Step 1: As always, the first step is to listen to the model. Do your best to note any new language you come across and any areas you are unsure about. (Remember there is always a full transcript at the bottom of these lessons!)

    Step 2: Now that you are familiar with the sample, listen to this week’s IELTSCast episode. This will give you a small preview lesson with which to train your speaking about this week’s topics:

    Step 3: As always, your task is to now make it through the longer FULL exercise. Remember that a key step here is to note all new language in your journal to ensure you are able to review it later and include it in your own day-to-day conversations. (If you do not yet have access to these full lessons, click here.)

    Step 4: Review the below transcript again and post any questions you have about this week’s lesson as comment.

    Step 5: In your Whatsapp group, practise saying some of the sentences from the response. Your instructor will give you feedback on how to improve your clarity and pronunciation.

    Transcript

    Are you currently working or are you a student?

    I am currently employed as a marketing specialist for a technology company. I have been working in this role for the past three years.

    Do you prefer working in a crowded place or a quiet one?

    Personally, I thrive in a quieter work environment. I find that I can concentrate better and be more productive when there are fewer distractions.

    Do you like spending your vacations or holidays in crowded or quiet places?

    I tend to lean towards quieter destinations when it comes to vacations. The peacefulness of open landscapes and the chance to unwind away from the hustle and bustle of daily life are appealing to me. I can’t imagine experiencing the same level of relaxation in a crowded city.

    Let’s talk about sunglasses. Do you often wear sunglasses?

    I make it a habit to wear sunglasses, especially during the sunny seasons. Not only do they provide protection against harmful UV rays, but they also help reduce glare. Additionally, I see sunglasses as a fashion accessory, and I often choose a pair that complements my style.

    Should people be encouraged to wear sunglasses?

    Absolutely. I believe people should be encouraged to wear sunglasses, not just as a fashion statement but also for the health benefits. Prolonged exposure to the sun’s UV rays can lead to various eye conditions, and wearing sunglasses is a simple and effective way to get long-term protection of one’s eyes.

    Have you ever bought sunglasses for someone else?

    Yes, I have. On a couple of occasions, I have purchased sunglasses as gifts for friends and family. I believe it’s a thoughtful present, and I make sure to consider the recipient’s style and preferences when selecting a pair. It’s a practical yet stylish gift and it’s a great choice for people that are hard to buy gifts for.

    Thank you.

  • Lesson 139: Complaints☹️

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

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

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

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

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

    Transcript:

    What do people usually complain about in public places?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • Lesson 135: Noise and loud music📯

    We’re back again this week and learning how to speak about noise and loud music. This was an IELTS Speaking Part 1 series of questions asked on an exam in late 2023.

    Step 1: Let’s start this week by listening to the full sample (there is a transcript at the bottom of this post, but try to first listen without it to see how much you can understand):

    Step 2: Below you’ll find the video version of this week’s podcast episode. You can subscribe to the audio version at iTunes.

    Step 3: Now that you’re familiar with the sample, try the full exercise. (Click here if you are not yet a paid subscriber.)

    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.

    Do you work or are you a student?

    I’m currently a student.

    What do you study?

    I’m pursuing a degree in Environmental Science.

    Let’s talk about noise. Would you describe yourself as a noisy person?

    No, I wouldn’t say I’m a noisy person at all. I generally prefer a calm and quiet environment.

    In what situations does noise bother you?

    I find noise particularly bothersome when I’m trying to concentrate, especially while studying or working on important tasks. It can be quite distracting.

    Do you like to listen to loud music?

    Occasionally…yes, I do. However, I prefer it at a moderate volume. I find it more enjoyable, and it doesn’t disturb others around me.

    How do you feel about noise in your living environment?

    I value a peaceful living environment. Excessive noise can be disruptive to both relaxation and productivity. I believe in maintaining a balance to ensure a harmonious atmosphere.

    Do you think cities are becoming noisier?

    Absolutely. It’s evident that urban areas are experiencing an increase in noise levels. Factors like traffic, construction and a faster-paced lifestyle contribute to the overall rise in noise pollution. It’s a concerning trend that impacts the quality of life for many city dwellers.

    Step 5: If you have any questions about this week’s lesson, post them as a comment below!

  • Lesson 126: Your hometown and drinks🍵

    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.

    Chat on WhatsApp

    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.