Category Archives: Part 3

Lesson 184: Online videos and online work🌐

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Non-stop shadowing lessons!

This week we’re looking at Part 3 questions that extend upon last week’s cue card on the topic of online videos

Step 1: Tune in to this week’s lesson. (Audio and video version below.)

Part 3 questions

What kinds of videos are popular in your country?
Why do you think videos are becoming increasingly popular nowadays?
What types of videos do you personally like to watch?
How has the rise of online work impacted people’s lives?
In your opinion, are people collaborating more online or offline these days?
Do you think people worldwide should conduct meetings or collaborations online only?

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

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

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

Post yourself saying this into your Whatsapp group!🗣️📲

In Vietnam, comedy sketches, especially those portraying everyday life, tend to go viral on social media. Educational content, like language tutorials or cooking videos, also garners significant attention.

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Transcript

What kinds of videos are popular in your country?
In Vietnam, comedy sketches, especially those portraying everyday life, tend to go viral on social media. Educational content, like language tutorials or cooking videos, also garners significant attention.

Why do you think videos are becoming increasingly popular nowadays?
Videos have become a dominant form of content because they are engaging and accessible. With widespread smartphone usage and affordable internet, people can easily watch videos anytime and anywhere. Videos also combine visuals, sound and storytelling, which I feel makes them entertaining.

What types of videos do you personally like to watch?
I enjoy watching a mix of educational and entertaining videos. Since I’m studying English, I often watch tutorials on grammar topics and pronunciation. For leisure, I gravitate toward travel vlogs, particularly those showcasing western Europe, which is a region I would like to visit.

How has the rise of online work impacted people’s lives?
The shift to online work has created more job opportunities for individuals in rural areas. It has also allowed people to work more flexibly and reduce their commute. However, it has also reduced face-to-face interaction and has increasingly isolated people.

In your opinion, are people collaborating more online or offline these days?
I think online collaboration has become more common in recent years, especially with advancements in technology and the impact of the pandemic. However, in my country, offline collaboration remains significant, especially in manufacturing industries. I think this is because these industries produce a physical product and thus require people to be physically present at the workplace.

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

Lesson 181: Museums (Recent IELTS Speaking Part 3 question)

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Non-stop shadowing lessons!

This week we’re looking at Part 3 questions on the topic of ‘museums’. This was a topic seen on a very recent IELTS Speaking exam!

Step 1: Tune in to this week’s lesson. (Audio and video version below.)

This week’s Part 3 questions:

Should museums charge admission fees, or should they be free for citizens?
Do you think making museums free could increase tourism within a country?
How can the cost of visiting cultural sites affect tourism?
What kinds of museums do you most enjoy visiting?
Would you ever like to work in a museum?
Do museums play an important role in society?

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

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

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

Post yourself saying this into your Whatsapp group!🗣️📲

“In my opinion, museums should ideally be free for citizens, as this promotes greater access to cultural and historical knowledge. This is essential for fostering a well-informed and culturally aware society.”

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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

Should museums charge admission fees, or should they be free for citizens?

In my opinion, museums should ideally be free for citizens, as this promotes greater access to cultural and historical knowledge. This is essential for fostering a well-informed and culturally aware society.

Do you think making museums free could increase tourism within a country?

Yes, I do believe that making museums free could be a draw for tourists. Many travellers look for ways to immerse themselves in a country’s heritage, and free museum access could be a strong incentive.

How can the cost of visiting cultural sites affect tourism?

I think high entry fees may discourage some visitors, leading them to seek more affordable activities. When cultural sites are priced modestly, it makes it possible for tourists of all backgrounds to enjoy and learn about a place’s history, art and culture.

What kinds of museums do you most enjoy visiting?

I am most drawn to art museums and history museums. Art museums captivate me with their diverse collections that span centuries and continents, offering insight into various cultures and artistic movements. History museums, on the other hand, fascinate me with their focus on the evolution of life and ancient civilizations.

Would you ever like to work in a museum?

Yes, working in a museum is something I would definitely consider. Museums are treasure troves of knowledge, and the idea of contributing to the preservation of history and culture is very appealing. I also think I would enjoy helping visitors connect with the past in meaningful ways.

Do museums play an important role in society?

Absolutely. Museums play a vital role in society by preserving history and educating the public. They safeguard artifacts that might otherwise be lost to time. Museums also provide a shared space for learning and reflection.

Lesson 178: The future of the internet🤖

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Non-stop shadowing lessons!

This week we look at questions from Part 3 that follow-up on last week’s cue card. The topic is: the future of the internet.

Step 1: Tune in to this week’s lesson. (Audio and video version below.)

This week’s Part 3 questions:

How has the internet changed the way people access information?
Do you think people rely too much on websites for information nowadays?
What are the advantages of using websites compared to traditional sources like books or newspapers?
Are there any disadvantages to getting information from websites?
How do you think websites will evolve in the future?
Do you think artificial intelligence will have a big impact on how websites are designed and used?

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

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

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

Post yourself saying this into your Whatsapp group!🗣️📲
In the past, people had to rely on physical resources such as books and libraries. Nowadays, with just a few clicks, we can access a vast array of data on virtually any topic. Additionally, the internet offers multimedia options—videos, infographics, podcasts—which cater to various learning styles.

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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

How has the internet changed the way people access information?
In the past, people had to rely on physical resources such as books and libraries. Nowadays, with just a few clicks, we can access a vast array of data on virtually any topic. Additionally, the internet offers multimedia options—videos, infographics, podcasts—which cater to various learning styles.

Do you think people rely too much on websites for information nowadays?
Yes, to an extent. While it’s convenient and time-efficient, people often skim articles or rely on unverified sources, which can lead to misinformation. However, it’s also important to acknowledge the positive side: the internet provides a level of accessibility to knowledge that was previously unimaginable.

What are the advantages of using websites compared to traditional sources like books or newspapers?
Firstly, websites provide real-time updates, whereas printed books or newspapers might take days or months to be published. Secondly, websites are searchable, making it far easier to locate specific information in seconds. And finallly, websites often provide interactive content that can enrich the learning experience far beyond what traditional media can offer.

Are there any disadvantages to getting information from websites?
As I mentioned before, one major disadvantage of obtaining information from websites is the prevalence of misinformation. Another issue is the distraction factor, as websites often contain ads and other stimuli that can interfere with focused reading.

How do you think websites will evolve in the future?
I believe websites will become even more personalised and intuitive in the future. As artificial intelligence continues to advance, websites will likely offer highly customised experiences, predicting what information a user needs before they even ask for it.

Do you think artificial intelligence will have a big impact on how websites are designed and used?
I feel artificial intelligence is already having a profound impact on web design and usage, and this trend will only intensify. In the future, I think we’ll see AI-driven websites that can autonomously update content, optimise their own design and have increasingly sophisticated interactions with users.

Lesson 175: Animals and society🐡

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Non-stop shadowing lessons!

This week, we’re finishing up the exam we’ve been analysing for the past few weeks. The topic once again involves animals.

Step 1: Tune in to this week’s lesson. (Audio and video version below.)

This week’s Part 3 questions:
In what ways can animals be helpful to humans in daily life?
Do you think schools should teach children about interacting with animals? Why or why not?
How has the role of animals in society changed over the years in your country?
What are your views on keeping wild animals in captivity for entertainment purposes?
How important is it to protect endangered animal species?

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!🗣️📲

“Animals play a pivotal role in various aspects of human life. For example, domesticated animals like dogs and cats provide emotional support and companionship, which can significantly improve mental health. In rural areas, animals such as horses and donkeys are used for farming, making daily tasks more manageable. Additionally, animals contribute to human well-being through service roles. Guide dogs, for instance, allow visually impaired people to navigate their environment.”
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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

In what ways can animals be helpful to humans in daily life?

Animals play a pivotal role in various aspects of human life. For example, domesticated animals like dogs and cats provide emotional support and companionship, which can significantly improve mental health. In rural areas, animals such as horses and donkeys are used for farming, making daily tasks more manageable. Additionally, animals contribute to human well-being through service roles. Guide dogs, for instance, allow visually impaired people to navigate their environment.

Do you think schools should teach children about interacting with animals?

Yes, I do. Teaching children how to interact with animals can foster a sense of empathy and responsibility. By learning about animals’ needs and the proper way to care for them, children develop an appreciation for other living beings. I think this helps children develop into kind, compassionate adults.

How has the role of animals in society changed over the years in your country?

In the past, animals were largely seen as working partners, especially in rural communities where they were essential for farming and transportation. However, with modernisation, machines have largely taken over these roles, and now people more see animals as companions. Today, many laws have been enacted to protect animals, so the shift in opinion in my country has been pretty dramatic.

What are your views on keeping wild animals in captivity for entertainment purposes?

I believe keeping wild animals in captivity purely for entertainment purposes is ethically questionable. Many animals in zoos and circuses endure environments that are drastically different from their natural habitats. I think we should shift our focus towards more humane and educational alternatives, such as wildlife documentaries and virtual reality experiences. This would allow people to learn about wild animals without causing harm.

How important is it to protect endangered animal species?

Protecting endangered species is of paramount importance. Each species plays a unique role in maintaining ecological balance. For instance, the extinction of a predator can lead to overpopulation of prey, which can in turn lead to habitat destruction. I believe there is also an ethical responsibility to preserve the incredible variety of life on Earth for future generations to appreciate.

Lesson 172: Talking in depth about your hometown🏠

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Non-stop shadowing lessons!

This week we’re looking at Part 3 questions that expand on the topic of ‘your hometown’.

Step 1: (No podcast episode published this week. Please proceed to Step 2.)

Part 3 questions
What is your hometown most well known for?
Is it easy for a person to become integrated in your hometown?
Do many tourists visit your hometown?
What are some of the challenges your hometown faces today?
Would you say your hometown is a good place for young people to live?

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 hometown is a small town in Ontario. I would say it is most well known for its rich agricultural roots. It hosts the oldest agricultural fair in Canada: The Carp Fair. It also has a Cold War-era underground bunker that has been transformed into Canada’s Cold War Museum. I would say these two things would be our biggest attractions.”
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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

What is your hometown most well known for?

My hometown is a small town in Ontario. I would say it is most well known for its rich agricultural roots. It hosts the oldest agricultural fair in Canada: The Carp Fair. It also has a Cold War-era underground bunker that has been transformed into Canada’s Cold War Museum. I would say these two things would be our biggest attractions.

Is it easy for a person to become integrated in your hometown?

Yes. My hometown doesn’t really have a definitive identity, so I think newcomers find it easy to blend in. Also, because of its smaller size, it’s easy to get to know your neighbours.

Do many tourists visit your hometown?

While my hometown doesn’t attract the volume of tourists that larger cities do, it does see a steady stream of visitors. The Cold War Museum I was mentioning is a unique historical site that draws both history enthusiasts and school groups. Also, tourists who enjoy rural getaways often visit Carp for its serene landscapes and farmer’s markets in the summer and fall.

What are some of the challenges your hometown faces today?

I would say my hometown’s major challenge is balancing growth while maintaining its rural character. As neighbouring Ottawa expands, there is the risk that my hometown will become amalgamated. Some people see this as a threat to the small-town lifestyle and local businesses that residents cherish.

Would you say your hometown is a good place for young people to live?

Carp offers a peaceful and safe environment, which can be ideal for young families or those who prefer a slower pace of life. It has a strong sense of community, and its proximity to Ottawa means young people have access to urban job opportunities and higher education. Overall, it’s a good place for those who appreciate a balance between rural and urban living.

Lesson 169: Responding to questions about working in a team🧏

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Non-stop shadowing lessons!

This week’s IELTS Part 3 questions extend upon last week’s cue card. In both cases, the topic revolves around working as part of a team.

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

Part 3 Questions
What are the advantages and disadvantages of working in a team?
How do you think technology has impacted teamwork in recent years?
What are some common challenges people face when working in a team?
How can conflicts within a team be effectively resolved?
Have you ever learned something valuable about yourself through working with others?
🧑‍🎓Target language:

seamlessly(adv.)
-with no spaces between one part and the next

“With the advent of digital collaboration tools like video conferencing, teams can now work together seamlessly regardless of geographical location.”

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!🗣️📲

“One of the most significant advantages is the diversity of perspectives that different team members bring. Additionally, teamwork allows for the distribution of tasks, which can lead to greater productivity.”
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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

What are the advantages and disadvantages of working in a team?

One of the most significant advantages is the diversity of perspectives that different team members bring. Additionally, teamwork allows for the distribution of tasks, which can lead to greater productivity.

However, there are also disadvantages to teamwork such as the potential for conflict. Another disadvantage is that some individuals may contribute less and rely on others to carry the workload.

How do you think technology has impacted teamwork in recent years?

Technology has had a profound impact on teamwork, particularly in the last decade. With the advent of digital collaboration tools like video conferencing, teams can now work together seamlessly regardless of geographical location. This has enabled the rise of remote teams and allowed organisations to tap into talent pools from around the world.

What are some common challenges people face when working in a team?

One of the most common challenges in teamwork is communication. Miscommunication or lack of communication can lead to confusion, mistakes and a lack of cohesion among the team members. Another challenge is the potential for personality clashes. In any team, there are likely to be individuals with differing temperaments or working styles, which can create tension.

How can conflicts within a team be effectively resolved?

Effective conflict resolution within a team often starts with open communication. This can be facilitated by having regular team meetings where everyone has the opportunity to voice their thoughts.

Another key strategy is to focus on the issue rather than the individuals involved. In some cases, involving a neutral third party, such as a team leader or mediator, can help to facilitate the resolution process. This can help team members feel heard and valued and encourage them to work together harmoniously.

Have you ever learned something valuable about yourself through working with others?

Absolutely. One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned through working with others is the importance of adaptability. In a team setting, circumstances can change rapidly. I’ve come to realise that being flexible and open to change is crucial not only for the success of the project but also for personal growth.

Lesson 165: Celebrities📸

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This week, you will train for Part 3 of the exam. The topic this week is ‘celebrities’.

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

Part 3 Questions

What qualities do you think are important for an actor or actress to be successful?
Do you think celebrities have a responsibility to be role models?
How has the film industry changed over the years in your country?
In what ways do celebrities impact people’s behaviour and attitudes?
Do you believe celebrities should speak out on political issues?
🧑‍🎓Target language:

shed light on
-raise awareness of something

“Given their large platform, they can shed light on important causes and bring attention to underrepresented voices.”

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!🗣️📲

“To be successful, an actor or actress firstly needs to have talent. They must possess the ability to convey emotions authentically and connect with the audience. Versatility is equally important, as the best actors can seamlessly adapt to a wide range of roles. Moreover, dedication and a strong work ethic are essential. The film industry is highly competitive and demands resilience in the face of rejection.”
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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

What qualities do you think are important for an actor or actress to be successful?

To be successful, an actor or actress firstly needs to have talent. They must possess the ability to convey emotions authentically and connect with the audience. Versatility is equally important, as the best actors can seamlessly adapt to a wide range of roles. Moreover, dedication and a strong work ethic are essential. The film industry is highly competitive and demands resilience in the face of rejection.

Do you think celebrities have a responsibility to be role models?

Yes, I do believe celebrities have a responsibility to be role models. Given their significant visibility, their actions and words can have a profound impact on their followers, especially young people. By promoting positive behaviour, such as kindness and hard work, celebrities can inspire their fans to adopt similar values. Moreover, as public figures, they have a platform to address important social issues and advocate for positive change.

How has the film industry changed over the years in your country?

The film industry in my country has undergone significant changes over the years. Technological advancements have fueled a lot of this change. For example, digital filmmaking and special effects have transformed the way movies are made and experienced. There has also been a noticeable shift towards innovative storytelling techniques. For instance, when I was a kid, movies had very simple and predictable plots. These days, however, movies often have unforeseen twists or character backstories that help deepen the viewer’s understanding of the plot. Additionally, the industry has become more inclusive and diverse. It’s now not uncommon for movies in my country to include a variety of cultures and ethnicities.

In what ways do celebrities impact people’s behaviour and attitudes?

I think their influence is particularly evident in areas such as fashion and lifestyle choices. For example, when a celebrity endorses a product or adopts a particular style, it often leads to widespread emulation among their fans. Celebrities can also shape public discourse on important issues. I remember a famous celebrity in my country once publicly shared their struggles with depression, and this led to much greater awareness of the importance of mental health. I guess it’s safe to say that what celebrities say and do in the public eye can have major impact on people’s behaviour and attitudes.

Do you believe celebrities should speak out on political issues?

I believe celebrities should have the right to speak out on political issues, just like any other citizen. Given their large platform, they can shed light on important causes and bring attention to underrepresented voices. However, it is crucial for celebrities to be well-informed and considerate when discussing political matters. Passing on misinformation could have dire consequences for society.

Lesson 162: Healthy routines🧘

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This week, you will train to speak about one of the most common topics in IELTS Speaking: routines! This sample was scripted by a practicing examiner and it uses real questions that were reportedly seen this year (2024) on a real IELTS exam.

Part 3 questions

How can a good morning routine influence the rest of the day?
What are some common components of a healthy morning routine?
How can a healthy routine contribute to better mental health?
How have electronic devices impacted people’s mental health?
Why is it difficult for some people to establish healthy routines?
🧑‍🎓Target language:

mixed bag
-something that is both positive and negative

“I would say the impact of electronic devices is a mixed bag.”

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

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 think a good morning routine sets a positive tone for the day. When an individual begins the day with healthy activities, it enhances productivity, reduces stress and improves a person’s overall mood. For example, engaging in activities such as exercise and meditation, and being sure to also eat a nutritious breakfast, can boost energy levels and mental clarity. When you feel great and are thinking clearly, the rest of your day is much more likely to be successful.”
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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

We’ve been talking about routines and I would like to ask you a few more questions about this topic. How can a good morning routine influence the rest of the day?

I think a good morning routine sets a positive tone for the day. When an individual begins the day with healthy activities, it enhances productivity, reduces stress and improves a person’s overall mood. For example, engaging in activities such as exercise and meditation, and being sure to also eat a nutritious breakfast, can boost energy levels and mental clarity. When you feel great and are thinking clearly, the rest of your day is much more likely to be successful.

What are some common components of a healthy morning routine?

Well, I already mentioned exercise, meditation and eating a healthy breakfast, but I feel the need to highlight these three items again as they are so critical to starting the day in a healthy way. Other components of a healthy morning routine might include planning the day’s tasks, reading or journaling. Doing these things can stimulate the mind and set clear goals for the day. I feel hydration and personal hygiene are also essential to kickstart the day on a positive note.

How can a healthy routine contribute to better mental health?

I believe it contributes to better mental health by providing a sense of structure. When you know exactly what you are going to do after you wake up, you have a sense of control and I think this reduces anxiousness and helps stabilise emotions. Also, regular physical activity releases endorphins, which are natural mood lifters. Consistent sleep patterns are crucial for cognitive function and emotional regulation, too. I’d say these are the main ways a healthy routine contributes to better mental health.

How have electronic devices impacted people’s mental health?

Electronic devices have had a profound impact on people’s mental health, both positively and negatively. On the positive side, devices provide access to information, social connections, and mental health resources, which can be supportive. However, excessive use of electronic devices, particularly social media, has been linked to increased feelings of anxiety, depression and loneliness. This often leads to stress and disrupted sleep patterns. So I guess I would say the impact of electronic devices is a mixed bag.

Why is it difficult for some people to establish healthy routines?

One primary obstacle is the lack of motivation or willpower. It’s hard to establish a healthy routine if you don’t really want one. Additionally, busy lifestyles and demanding schedules can make it difficult to allocate time for new habits. Existing unhealthy habits, such as poor sleep patterns or a sedentary lifestyle, can also be hard to break.

Thank you. This marks the end of the IELTS Speaking exam.

Lesson 159: How is success defined in your culture?🏆

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

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

Part 3 Questions

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

perseverance (adjective)
-persistence in doing something despite difficulty

“People achieve success through education and perseverance.”

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

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

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

Post yourself saying this into your Whatsapp group!🗣️📲

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

Transcript

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lesson 156: Appliances and people⏲

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This week’s lesson continues the conversation that began with last week’s cue card. The topic of this Part 3 sample is ‘appliances and people’. Note how the candidate’s responses are longer and more developed in this section of the exam.

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

Part 3 Questions

Can you name another home appliance that people commonly use?
Do you think people nowadays accumulate unnecessary appliances in their homes?
Do most people in your country prefer to shop for household appliances in markets or shopping malls?
Are higher priced appliances always better quality than lower priced ones?
How do you judge the quality of a household appliance?
How long do you expect an appliance to last after you buy it?
🧑‍🎓Target language:

staple(noun)
-a central part of something

“Another home appliance that people commonly use is the microwave oven. It has become a staple in most kitchens due to its convenience and its ability to save a person time.”

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!🗣️📲

“Another home appliance that people commonly use is the microwave oven. It has become a staple in most kitchens due to its convenience and its ability to save a person time. For example, it can quickly heat up food, defrost frozen items, and even cook simple meals.”
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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

We’ve been talking about home appliances, and I would like to ask you a few more questions about this topic. Can you name another home appliance that people commonly use?

Another home appliance that people commonly use is the microwave oven. It has become a staple in most kitchens due to its convenience and its ability to save a person time. For example, it can quickly heat up food, defrost frozen items, and even cook simple meals.

Do you think people nowadays accumulate unnecessary appliances in their homes?

Yes, and I think this trend is primarily driven by aggressive marketing tactics that make people believe buying the latest technology will simplify their life. It also doesn’t help that it is so easy to buy things online nowadays. However, in reality, many of these gadgets end up being used infrequently, if at all, and this results in cluttered living spaces and wasted resources.

Do most people in your country prefer to shop for household appliances in markets or shopping malls?

In my country, the preference for shopping locations varies, but a significant number of people tend to favour shopping malls over traditional markets when buying household appliances. Shopping malls offer a wider selection of products and the convenience of modern facilities. Malls also offer the assurance of purchasing from reputable retailers. Plus they typically offer after-sales services. This level of assurance isn’t commonly found in traditional markets.

Are higher priced appliances always better quality than lower priced ones?

Not necessarily. While higher priced appliances often come with advanced features, they do not always deliver superior quality or performance. For example, several years ago I purchased my microwave from Carrefour, which is a budget superstore in my area. This microwave was not expensive, yet it remains highly reliable and functions just as well as pricier options. To my mind, it’s essential to look at online user reviews before you purchase. Doing this will help you judge whether a more expensive option is really worth it.

How do you judge the quality of a household appliance?

Judging the quality of a household appliance involves several factors. Firstly, as I mentioned, I want to know what others think, so I base a lot of my opinion on online reviews. Customer feedback can provide valuable insights into the durability and performance of the appliance. Secondly, I check whether the appliance’s specifications and features meet my specific needs. Lastly, I look at the warranty and the availability of after-sales service, as I want to have options should the appliance break after I buy it.

How long do you expect an appliance to last after you buy it?

The expected lifespan of an appliance can vary greatly. Generally, I would expect a well-made household appliance to last at least five years. Major appliances like refrigerators and washing machines should ideally last closer to a decade, if not longer. On the other hand, smaller or more technologically complex appliances might have a shorter lifespan. I wouldn’t expect to get more than about five years out of a blender, for example.

Thank you.