Category Archives: Part 1

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 109: Your job satisfaction😇

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This week, we look at a very common IELTS Speaking topic: your job!

Step 1: Listen to the sample. You can listen more than once if needed.

Step 2: Work through this week’s sample lesson below.

Step 3: Work through the below lesson. This is the full lesson that is made available to paid subscribers.

Step 4: Read through the below transcript and note any of the new or challenging language you came across this week. Review these areas in the coming weeks.

Step 5: Your instructor will post a speaking exercise each day this week. Submit your speaking sample to your Whatsapp group and wait for further feedback.

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Transcript

Where are you from?

I am from a vibrant city called Abuja, which is the capital of Nigeria. It’s a culturally rich place that attracts people and business from all around the world.

Do you work or study?

I currently work as a software engineer. After completing my degree in computer science, I joined a respected technology company where I have been working for the past three years.

Where do you work?

I work at XY Tech, a leading software development firm based in the heart of the city. It’s a dynamic and innovative workplace with a strong emphasis on cutting-edge technologies. The company has a reputation for delivering high-quality software solutions to clients across various industries.

Do you like your job?

Absolutely. I truly enjoy my job as a software engineer. It provides me with the opportunity to work on fascinating projects and collaborate with talented individuals. I find the process of designing and developing software immensely satisfying, and the feeling of creating something that can make a real impact is truly rewarding.

What are some of the benefits of doing this job?

One of the major benefits of working as a software engineer is the continuous learning and growth opportunities. This job allows me to enhance my technical skills and expand my knowledge base, which is invaluable in today’s rapidly changing world. Additionally, because software engineers are in high demand, the job offers a competitive salary and benefits package. I also have a very flexible work environment and the option to work remotely, which are perks I find appealing.

Are there any areas where you would like your company to change?

While I am quite satisfied with my current company, there are a few areas where I believe some improvements could be made. Firstly, I think it would be beneficial if the company invested more in professional development programmes and licensing opportunities. As I mentioned earlier, continuous learning is crucial in the technology field, and by providing employees with access to the latest courses and workshops, the company can ensure that its workforce remains highly skilled and up to date with emerging technologies.

I would also appreciate a more structured approach to our meetings. I usually have several meetings a day and because there is no standard company structure for these meetings, we often go overtime or talk about the same topic multiple times. A standard structure would keep meetings more streamlined and productive.

Aside from those items, I can’t think of anything else I would change.

Thank you.

Lesson 107: Friendship👬

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This week, we’re talking about friendship – a very common topic in IELTS Speaking.

Step 1: Listen to the full sample.

Step 2: Work through the sample exercise.

Step 3: Complete the full speech shadowing exercise.

Step 4: Read through the below transcript.

Step 5: Complete this week’s daily speech shadowing exercises with your Whatsapp instructor.

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Transcript

Where are you from?

I am originally from New York City.

Do you work or study?

Currently, I am pursuing my undergraduate degree in economics at the prestigious New York University. Although my main focus is on my studies, I also engage in part-time work to gain practical experience and support myself financially.

When do you feel happy at work?

I find happiness at work when I am fully engaged in meaningful tasks that align with my skills and interests. I also like working in a positive and supportive environment with friendly colleagues and I find this enhances my overall job satisfaction. Collaboration, mutual respect, and a sense of camaraderie foster a pleasant work atmosphere and contribute to my happiness in the workplace.

Let’s talk about friends. Do you have many friends?

Although I value quality over quantity when it comes to friendships, I am fortunate to have a close-knit circle of friends who are dependable, understanding and supportive. While the size of my social circle may not be extensive, the depth of the connections I have with my friends is truly meaningful. We share common interests and values, and we actively support each other through life’s ups and downs.

Is making friends easy for you?

I consider myself to be a sociable and outgoing individual, which generally makes it easier for me to make new friends. However, I believe that building deep and lasting friendships requires time, effort, and shared experiences. Thus, while I may find it relatively easy to establish initial connections, forming meaningful friendships requires investment and mutual understanding.

What sort of people do you most easily make friends with?

I find that I most easily make friends with individuals who share similar interests and values. I also appreciate people who are open-minded, empathetic, and possess a sense of humour. These qualities foster a comfortable and welcoming environment, making it easier for me to connect with them on a deeper level.

Lesson 106: Routines in your country⏰

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This week, you will train for Part 3 of IELTS Speaking. The topic this week requires you use the present simple, as you are speaking about routines.

Step 1: Listen to the full sample.

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

Step 3: Complete this week’s full exercise.

Step 4: Read through this week’s transcript and note the language you found challenging. Review this language in the coming weeks.

Step 5: Complete this week’s Whatsapp exercises with your instructor. Post your samples to your group and wait for your instructor’s feedback.

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Transcript

Are your daily routines similar to other people from your country?
Yes, my daily routines are similar to those of others in my country. We generally follow a consistent pattern of activities throughout the day, such as morning routines, work or school commitments, designated break times, recreational activities, and evening preparations for sleep.

Are routines easy to change?
Routines can be both easy and challenging to change. It depends on factors like personal motivations, external circumstances, flexibility of commitments, and individual adaptability. Some find it easier to adjust to new routines, while others may struggle. For example, someone with a more structured work schedule may find it harder to modify their routine compared to someone with a more flexible lifestyle. Ultimately, the ability to change routines varies from person to person.

At what time of the day do you prefer to carry out your routines?
Personally, I prefer morning routines. Starting the day early allows me to be productive, energised, and focused. After waking up, I engage in my morning hygiene routine and have a nutritious breakfast to fuel my body and mind. This helps me feel energised and ready to tackle the tasks and responsibilities that lie ahead. I find the peaceful atmosphere in the early hours further enhances my concentration and sets a positive tone for the day.

How do people in your country spend their free time?
People in my country engage in various activities during their free time. These include pursuing hobbies, spending time with loved ones, personal development through reading or attending workshops, and utilising technology for entertainment or information.

What did people do in their free time in the past?
In the past, people engaged in traditional forms of entertainment. Activities such as socialising, playing traditional games, reading books, writing letters, and outdoor pursuits were common. People connected on a personal level and appreciated simpler pleasures.

How have current leisure activities changed compared to the past?
Leisure activities have significantly changed due to technology and societal shifts. Digital entertainment, such as streaming movies, playing video games, and social media, has become prevalent. Traditional hobbies and outdoor activities still exist but have taken a backseat. Efforts are being made to promote balance between digital engagement and real life experiences, encouraging physical fitness, social interaction and personal growth.

Lesson 103: T-shirts👕

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This week, you will train to speak about clothing, specifically T-shirts. Use the below shadowing technique to improve your fluency.

Step 1: As always, start this week’s training by familiarising yourself with the model.

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

Step 3: Now complete your full shadowing practice using the below exercise. (If you do not yet have access to full exercises, click here.)

Step 4: Read through the below transcript and make note of all items you found challenging or new this week.

Step 5: Send your speech samples to your Whatsapp instructor and wait for their feedback.

Chat on WhatsApp

Transcript

Where do you live?

I currently reside in Dhaka. It’s a vibrant city with lots to offer in terms of culture, entertainment, and opportunities.

Do you like wearing T-shirts?

Absolutely! T-shirts are comfortable and versatile, making them a staple in my wardrobe. I find them perfect for casual outings, exercise, or even lounging at home.

How often do you wear T-shirts?

I wear T-shirts almost every day, especially during the warmer months. They’re easy to style and can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion.

What kind of T-shirts do you wear for different occasions?

For casual outings or running errands, I usually wear plain, solid-coloured T-shirts. For more formal events, I opt for dressier T-shirts with a subtle pattern or design. I also enjoy wearing graphic tees with quirky prints for a funkier look.

Have you ever bought a T-shirt as a souvenir from a place you visited?

Yes, I have. I think buying a T-shirt as a souvenir is a great way to remember a trip or experience. I have a collection of T-shirts from various places that hold special memories for me.

What do you think of T-shirts with slogans or messages on them?

I think T-shirts with slogans or messages on them can be a great way to express oneself or make a statement. However, I do believe that the message should be positive and respectful. I find it inappropriate when T-shirts have offensive or derogatory messages on them.

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 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.

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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 91: Shoes👟

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This week, you will train for IELTS Speaking Part 1. This model talks about a very unique topic: shoes!

Part 1: Listen to the full sample.

Part 2: Tune in to this week’s IELTSCast episode and practist repeating some of the language.

Part 3: Complete the full speech shadowing exercise.

Part 4: Read through the transcript and identify any areas to review.

Part 5: Submit your speaking samples to your Whatsapp instructor.

Chat on WhatsApp

Transcript

Do you study or work?

I am currently pursuing a higher education at a well-renowned university. I am studying a multidisciplinary field which is a balanced combination of my diverse interests.

Where do you study?

My university is located in the bustling city centre, providing a perfect combination of academic rigor and cultural diversity. It’s a supportive learning environment that I find motivates me to achieve my goals.

What type of shoes do you wear?

I am quite meticulous when it comes to footwear, as it plays a crucial role in my daily comfort. I usually wear premium sneakers made from high-quality materials, which offer excellent cushioning and support.

What is your favourite colour for shoes?

My favourite shoe colour is navy blue. I find it to be a timeless and stylish colour that can be easily paired with a wide range of other clothing.

Do you often buy shoes in this colour?

Yes, I often purchase shoes in this particular shade as I find it to be a reliable choice for various occasions. Moreover, because it is a darker colour, any scuffs or other signs of wear and tear are difficult to see.

How often do you buy new shoes?

I believe in the philosophy of investing in quality over quantity, which is why I don’t buy shoes frequently. I usually purchase a new pair of shoes every 8 to 10 months, or when my current pair starts to show clear signs of age.

When did you last buy a pair of shoes?

I actually bought my last pair of shoes just a few weeks ago. They are navy blue sneakers made from premium materials, and I am thoroughly impressed with their comfort and performance. I can confidently say that they are among the best shoes I have ever owned.

Lesson 88: Your job and advertisements📮

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Talking about your job is one of the most common topics in IELTS Speaking. In today’s lesson, you will train to speak about this topic and also the topic of advertisements.

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

Part 1 Questions

Do you work or study?
What are your responsibilities at work?
Why did you choose this job?
Is there something you don’t like about your job?
Let’s talk about advertisements. Tell me about an advertisement you saw recently that you enjoyed.
Would you like to be in an advertisement one day?
🧑‍🎓Target language:

primary (adjective)
-central or most important

“My primary responsibilities include monitoring inventory levels along our supply chains and arranging stock replenishment when it is needed.”

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!🗣️📲

“My primary responsibilities include monitoring inventory levels along our supply chains and arranging stock replenishment when it is needed. I communicate closely with our sales team and create purchase orders for items based on our forecasted figures.”
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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

Do you work or study?

I am currently working as a purchasing manager with a medium sized construction company.

What are your responsibilities at work?

My primary responsibilities include monitoring inventory levels along our supply chains and arranging stock replenishment when it is needed. I communicate closely with our sales team and create purchase orders for items based on our forecasted figures.

Why did you choose this job?

I actually didn’t choose this job. I was working as a warehouse manager when a vacancy as a purchasing manager opened up. The directors at the company thought I would be a great fit for the role and encouraged me to join.

Is there something you don’t like about your job?

I like most things about my job, but if I had to choose something I would say that the role requires dealing with a fair amount of uncertainty, and I don’t terribly like this. The construction industry has seasonal fluctuations, and sometimes demand for our product can be difficult to forecast. This can be a source of significant stress for me.

Let’s talk about advertisements. Tell me about an advertisement you saw recently that you enjoyed.

Recently, I saw an advertisement for a new mobile application that promised to help users stay organised and manage their time more effectively. What I liked about the advertisement was that it was very visually appealing and easy to understand. They used simple and clear language to convey the features and benefits of the app and the animation was very engaging.

Would you like to be in an advertisement one day?

I think it could be an interesting experience to be in an advertisement one day. I could use it as a great opportunity to showcase my personality and talents to a wider audience. However, I would only want to be a part of an advertisement campaign that aligns with my values and beliefs.

Lesson 85: Snacks🍪

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This week, we’re talking about everyone’s favourite topic: snacks!

Step 1: Listen to the full band 9 sample.

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

Step 3: Complete the full exercise.

Step 4: Read through the below transcript and note any new or challenging language you encountered this week.

Step 5: Complete this week’s speech exercises with your Whatsapp instructor.

Chat on WhatsApp

Transcript

Where do you live at the moment?

I live with my parents in their house, which is north of this city.

Do you like snacks?

Yes, I do. Because my family is Chinese, we mostly eat traditional snacks from our hometown such as a crispy rice called ‘guoba’ and roasted peanuts. I also like dried fish snacks, which are usually quite spicy so you have to couple them with a drink of some kind.

What time of the day do you prefer to have snacks and why?

Where I am from, people tend to snack all day and I guess I would say I follow suit. In the early morning, it is not uncommon for me to start my day by snacking on salted ginger. If I’m feeling peckish in the afternoon or evening, I might grab a handful of sunflower seeds. In my opinion, anytime is a great time to snack on something!

Do you think snacking is a healthy habit?

I guess it depends on what you’re eating. I presume snacking on processed foods like potato chips or chocolate wouldn’t be great for your health long term. Traditional snacks from my country tend to be quite natural, though. They’re mostly fresh or dried foods with few –if any– additives. I guess so long as you’re careful to munch on unprocessed foods only, snacking can be considered healthy.

What were your favourite snacks as a child?

Well, my snacking choices as a child were much less healthy than they are today! I enjoyed sweets and other sugary snacks. I remember my classmates and I would often get frozen snacks after school that were sweet and very similar to ice cream. My snacking choices have obviously evolved quite a bit since I was young!

If you had a child, what snacks would you give him or her?

I would try to push them towards the healthier options that I mentioned earlier. People say eating habits are partially established in childhood, so I think it is important to set a good example early. This doesn’t mean that a child can’t have the occasional sweet snack, but what’s important is to remember that moderation and mindfulness are key.