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

Category: Part 1

  • Lesson 160: Chocolate and staying up late🍫

    In this lesson, you will practise speaking about the topics of (1) chocolate and (2) staying up late. This lesson uses a sample band 9 demonstration for Part 1 of the IELTS Speaking exam.

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

    Part 1 Questions

    Where are you from?
    Do you work or study?
    Let’s talk about chocolate. Do you like eating chocolate?
    When do you eat chocolate?
    Let’s talk about routines. Do you stay up late at night?
    Why do you stay up late?
    How do you feel in the morning after staying up late?
    Has staying up late affected your productivity?
    🧑‍🎓Target language:

    kickstart(verb)
    -get something started

    “I often need a strong cup of coffee to kickstart my day.”

    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 from the city of Mumbai. It’s located on the western coast of India and is known as a major financial hub in Asia.”
    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

    Where are you from?

    I’m from the city of Mumbai. It’s located on the western coast of India and is known as a major financial hub in Asia.

    Do you work or study?

    I currently work as a software engineer. I mostly do front end development to help enhance the user experience.

    Let’s talk about chocolate. Do you like eating chocolate?

    Yes, I absolutely love chocolate. It’s one of my favourite treats.

    When do you eat chocolate?

    I wouldn’t say I eat it a lot, but when I do have it it’s usually in the evening as a dessert. Sometimes, I might have a small piece in the afternoon as a quick energy boost, too.

    Let’s talk about routines. Do you stay up late at night?

    Yes, I often stay up late at night, especially on weekdays.

    Why do you stay up late?

    My work sometimes requires me to collaborate with international teams in different time zones, so this is almost always why I need to stay up late. When we have important deadlines to hit, I might not get to bed until as late as 3 am!

    How do you feel in the morning after staying up late?

    In the morning, I usually feel quite tired and sluggish if I’ve stayed up late. It takes me a bit longer to get started and feel fully alert. I often need a strong cup of coffee to kickstart my day.

    Has staying up late affected your productivity?

    Yes, staying up late has definitely affected my productivity. While I can accomplish a lot at night, it often leads to a lack of sleep, which in turn affects my concentration and efficiency the next day. Because of the international nature of my job, I unfortunately don’t really have the option for better work-life balance at the moment.

  • 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 148: Your village and native language💬

    This week’s ‘repeat after me’ lesson uses questions from Part 1 of a recent IELTS Speaking exam.

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

    Part 1 Questions
    Do you work or study?
    Do you live in a village, town or city?
    What do you like about your village?
    Is your village a good place to raise children?
    What languages are children taught in schools?
    Is music used to teach the native language in your country?
    Whose duty is it to teach the native language to children?
    🧑‍🎓Target language:

    deep-rooted (adjective)
    Something that is firmly established.

    “One aspect that I like about my village is its deep-rooted traditions and strong sense of community.”

    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!🗣️📲

    “One aspect that I like about my village is its deep-rooted traditions and strong sense of community. We have annual festivals for a variety of occasions, and I like how these festivals bring a sense unity and belonging. My village is also just a really beautiful place. It has fields and mountains and cherry blossoms that come out in the spring.”
    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?

    Currently, I am a student. I am pursuing a degree in Agricultural Science at the local university.

    Do you live in a village, town, or city?

    I live in a charming village in the countryside of Japan.

    What do you like about your village?

    One aspect that I like about my village is its deep-rooted traditions and strong sense of community. We have annual festivals for a variety of occasions, and I like how these festivals bring a sense unity and belonging. My village is also just a really beautiful place. It has fields and mountains and cherry blossoms that come out in the spring.

    Is your village a good place to raise children?

    It certainly is. The safety of our village makes it an ideal environment for raising children. There are clean parks, safe streets and close-knit neighbourhoods. Children are safe to explore and play freely. Moreover, the local schools prioritise holistic education, instilling values of respect and cooperation from a young age.

    What languages are children taught in schools?

    In our schools, children primarily learn Japanese, which is our native language. Additionally, English is introduced as a compulsory subject from elementary school onwards to prepare students for global opportunities.

    Is music used to teach the native language in your country?

    Yes, music is integrated into language education. Japanese nursery rhymes and traditional songs are often used to teach language fundamentals, enhance pronunciation and deepen cultural understanding. It makes the learning process more engaging and memorable for students of all ages.

    Whose duty is it to teach the native language to children?

    The responsibility of teaching the native language primarily rests with our educational institutions. They are equipped with innovative teaching methods and resources to impart language skills effectively. However, I believe parents also play a crucial role in nurturing language development at home. They can do a lot to foster a child’s love for our rich cultural heritage and language.

  • 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 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 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 132: Rain and staying healthy in your country🏃

    This lesson examines a Part 1 series of questions that jump between two topics: ‘rain’ and ‘staying healthy in your country’.

    Step 1: Familiarise yourself with the sample by listening to it at least once.

    Step 2: This week’s podcast episode gives you a few preview sentences with which to work with. Tune in here:

    Step 3: Complete the full speech shadowing exercise. There is a transcript at the bottom of this lesson to support you.

    Step 4: Once again read through the below transcript and be sure to note any new language in your journal for later reference. An important part of these exercises is to make efforts to include the new language in your own day-to-day speaking.

    Step 5: If you have been added to a Whatsapp group, you will receive this week’s speech prompts and can work through the exercises with your instructor.

    Chat on WhatsApp

    Transcript

    Do you work or study?

    Currently, I study marketing at a college in this city.

    Why did you choose to study this subject?

    I chose to study marketing because of its dynamic nature and its direct relevance to my career goals. The field allows me to combine creativity with strategic thinking, providing a perfect fit for my aspirations.

    Let’s talk about rain. Does it rain much in your city?

    In Rome, we experience moderate rainfall, particularly during the spring and fall seasons. The rain contributes to the city’s greenery and maintains a pleasant climate.

    Would you most like to live in a place that is dry or wet?

    I prefer a place with a balanced climate. Moderate rainfall adds to the environmental diversity and creates a pleasant atmosphere.

    Would you change your plans if it rained outside?

    Weather conditions do influence my plans to some extent. Heavy rain might prompt me to reconsider outdoor activities. However, a light drizzle usually doesn’t deter me from my plans.

    Let’s talk about health. Is it easy to stay healthy in your country?

    Yes, it is generally easy to maintain good health in Italy. Access to healthcare facilities, a variety of fresh and nutritious foods, and a cultural emphasis on physical activity contribute to an environment conducive to overall well-being.

    How do you maintain your physical health?

    I prioritise physical health through a combination of regular exercise and a balanced diet. Engaging in activities like jogging and incorporating a variety of fruits, vegetables and lean proteins into my diet ensures that I stay fit and energetic.

    Do you have a favourite exercise?

    Indeed, my favourite exercise is yoga. I find it not only physically beneficial but also mentally rejuvenating. The rhythmic nature of yoga allows me to unwind and stay physically active, contributing to a holistic sense of well-being.

  • Lesson 129: Concentration🤔

    This lesson examines questions that appeared in Part 1 of a recent exam.

    Step 1: Listen to the full model here to familiarise yourself with the language.

    Step 2: For those with access to the full lessons, watch the below video to complete this week’s full lesson training. Refer to the below transcript if you need any support.

    Step 3: Read through the below transcript and ensure you understand all parts of the response.

    Step 4: Post this week’s speech samples to your Whatsapp group.

    Chat on WhatsApp

    Transcript

    What is your full name?
    My full name is Richard Thompson.

    Where are you from?
    I am originally from Boston, a vibrant city known for its rich cultural heritage and diverse population.

    Do you work or are you a student?
    I am currently employed in the field of marketing.

    Where do you work?
    I work at XYZ Marketing Agency, a reputable firm specialising in digital marketing solutions.

    How many hours do you work per week?
    I typically work around 40 hours per week. It varies based on project requirements and deadlines.

    Are you able to concentrate at work?
    Yes, I consider myself to be quite focused at work. I believe concentration is essential for productivity, and I make a conscious effort to minimise distractions and stay engaged in my tasks.

    What helps you concentrate at work?
    Several factors contribute to my ability to concentrate. Firstly, I ensure I have a well-organised workspace. Secondly, I prioritise tasks and break them into manageable chunks, which helps me stay on track. Additionally, I find that taking short breaks and practising mindfulness techniques, such as deep breathing, enhance my focus and overall job performance.

    When you were in school, did you find it easy to concentrate?
    Yes, during my school years, I generally found it easy to concentrate. I believe this was partly due to my interest in the subjects I was studying. Moreover, I developed effective study habits and time management skills, which played a significant role in maintaining my concentration levels.