Category Archives: People

Lesson 158: A situation when people congratulated you🥳

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This week, you will train to speak about a situation when you were congratulated by others. This lesson uses a Part 2 cue card that was recently seen in a real IELTS Speaking exam.

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

Describe a situation when people congratulated you. You should say:
-what you did
-when it was
-how they congratulated you
and explain how you felt about it
🧑‍🎓Target language:

comprehensive (adjective)
-includes all components

“The project involved developing a comprehensive marketing strategy.”

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’d like to talk about a situation when people congratulated me. This occurred last year when I successfully completed a challenging project at work.

The project involved developing a comprehensive marketing strategy for a new product our company was launching. It was a significant undertaking as it required not only a deep understanding of the market but also innovative thinking to differentiate our product from the competition.”
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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.đź“ť

Transcript

Describe a situation when people congratulated you. You should say:
-what you did
-when it was
-how they congratulated you
and explain how you felt about it

I’d like to talk about a situation when people congratulated me. This occurred last year when I successfully completed a challenging project at work.

The project involved developing a comprehensive marketing strategy for a new product our company was launching. It was a significant undertaking as it required not only a deep understanding of the market but also innovative thinking to differentiate our product from the competition. I worked tirelessly for three months. I conducted extensive market research and coordinated with various departments. The end result was a marketing campaign that was highly profitable for the company.

The moment of recognition came during our annual company meeting last December. The CEO, in front of the entire company, highlighted the success of the project and praised my efforts specifically. He then invited me to the stage to receive a certificate of excellence.

The congratulatory gestures didn’t stop there. My colleagues gave me a standing ovation, and many came up to me personally after the meeting to shake my hand and offer their heartfelt congratulations.

It felt great to be recognised, and I also felt an overwhelming sense of pride and accomplishment. The experience not only boosted my confidence but also motivated me to continue striving for excellence in my work. Having my peers congratulate me in this way reinforced my belief in the importance of dedication and hard work.

Thank you.

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.

Lesson 153: Water-based activities🏊

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This week’s lesson looks at Part 3 questions that extend from last week’s cue card.

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

Part 3 Questions
What water-based activities are popular in your country?
What are some safety precautions people should take when doing activities near water?
Is boating a safe water activity?
Do people in your country like to travel by boat?
Do you have rivers and lakes in your country?
Do the factories in your town affect its water?
🧑‍🎓Target language:

jeopardise
-put someone or something at risk

“Townspeople are concerned industrial discharge and runoff could harm wildlife and possibly even jeopardise public health.”

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!🗣️📲

“Hmm in my country, along the coast, activities such as swimming, surfing and snorkeling are very popular. Inland, our lakes and rivers attract people who are interested in fishing, kayaking and leisurely boating.”
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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.đź“ť

Transcript

We have been talking about water, and I would like to ask you a few more questions about this topic. What water-based activities are popular in your country?

Hmm in my country, along the coast, activities such as swimming, surfing and snorkeling are very popular. Inland, our lakes and rivers attract people who are interested in fishing, kayaking and leisurely boating. Water-based activities are actually quite central to our culture, especially during the warmer months, and people like to use them as a convenient excuse to socialise.

What are some safety precautions people should take when doing activities near water?

First and foremost, individuals should learn some essential swimming skills. Even if they are good swimmers, they should also wear appropriate flotation devices, particularly in deep waters. Additionally, people should only do water-based activities in properly designated areas. For example, it would be very unsafe to swim alone in areas that are not patrolled by lifeguards. A final precaution would be to keep abreast of weather forecasts. By adhering to these precautions, individuals can safeguard themselves and others while doing water-based activities.

Is boating a safe water activity?

Boating, when undertaken with adherence to safety protocols, can indeed be a safe and enjoyable water activity. However, it is imperative that boaters use life jackets to hedge the risks associated with capsising. Furthermore, following navigational rules, such as observing speed limits, is crucial for accident prevention.

Do people in your country like to travel by boat?

Yes. It’s not nearly as popular as land-based transportation, but people nevertheless still love to travel by boat when they have some free time. I think the main motivator for this is that it allows them to take a break from their everyday routine.

Do you have rivers and lakes in your country?

Yes, rivers and lakes are abundant in my country. Rivers meander through the valleys and often connect to the lakes. They’re all quite scenic and filled with all sorts of animal life.

Do the factories in your town affect its water?

The impact of factories on water quality is an ongoing concern in many towns, including mine. Townspeople are concerned industrial discharge and runoff could harm wildlife and possibly even jeopardise public health. We’ve pushed our municipal government to regulate industrial activities, and today there is greater public awareness of the waste-types these factories produce.

Thank you.

Lesson 150: Learning Englishđź’‚

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We’ve reached 150 lessons!🎉 This week’s topic is very central to the base theme of this entire website: learning English!

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

Part 3 Questions
Do you think the way people learn English today is the same as in the past?
Is it easy for children to learn new languages?
Is it easier for children to learn languages than adults?
What is the importance of language in a culture?
Can people understand a culture without learning its language?
Is it important to protect small language groups?
🧑‍🎓Target language:

in my own case
-a phrase used to cue a personal example

“For example, in my own case, I found certain English pronunciation patterns challenging because these sounds do not exist in my language!”

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!🗣️📲

“No, the approach to learning English has evolved significantly. With technology and globalisation, access to diverse resources like online courses has enhanced the learning process. Learners are no longer constrained to classrooms. There are now dynamic approaches that allow people to train from anywhere in the world and in a variety of settings.”
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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.đź“ť

Transcript

We have been talking about languages and I would like to ask you a few more questions about this topic. Do you think the way people learn English today is the same as in the past?

No, the approach to learning English has evolved significantly. With technology and globalisation, access to diverse resources like online courses has enhanced the learning process. Learners are no longer constrained to classrooms. There are now dynamic approaches that allow people to train from anywhere in the world and in a variety of settings.

Is it easy for children to learn new languages?

Yes, children have a natural aptitude for language acquisition due to their adaptable brains and exposure to language-rich environments. Also, unlike adults, I think children are less inhibited by the fear of making mistakes, and this allows them to experiment with language freely.

Is it easier for children to learn languages than adults?

Generally, yes. As I mentioned, a child’s lack of inhibitions allows for easier experimentation with grammar, vocabulary and pronunciation, and this willingness to experiment encourages them to learn. Children have also not developed fluency in any language, so they have no preprogrammed speaking patterns that are working against them. For example, in my own case, I found certain English pronunciation patterns challenging because these sounds do not exist in my language!

What is the importance of language in a culture?

Language is integral to culture. It serves as a means of communication, expression and identity. Language also reflects the evolution of a society, and by this I mean it captures the collective wisdom and values of the people that speak it. Some sayings in one language may be completely nonsensical in another, and I feel this is clear evidence of how central language is to culture.

Can people understand a culture without learning its language?

I don’t think people can gain a deep understanding, no. While some insights can be learned through secondary sources, a deep understanding of a culture requires knowing the language. Language is an expression of the values of a culture, and it shows how the people of that culture solve problems and think about the world. So I guess that is to say that any quote unquote ‘understanding’ someone claims to have about a culture is very surface-level if they don’t know anything about the language.

Is it important to protect small language groups?

Absolutely. Small language groups represent linguistic diversity and cultural heritage. They embody unique ways of perceiving the world. Efforts to protect and revitalise endangered languages are crucial to preserving cultural identity and honouring the contributions of every culture to human civilization.

Thank you.

Lesson 149: A person from another country that speaks your language well🎎

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This week’s lesson requires the candidate describe a person that speaks their native language well.

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

Describe a person you know from another country who speaks your language fluently. You should say
-who he/she is
-what country he/she is from
-how he/she learned your language
-and explain how you feel about this person
🧑‍🎓Target language:

set apart
-something special or distinguished

“What truly sets Maria apart is her dedication to learning Japanese.”

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

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

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

Post yourself saying this into your Whatsapp group!🗣️📲

“I’m going to talk about a remarkable individual named Maria, who speaks my native language, Japanese, fluently. Maria is from Spain and first encountered Japanese during her university studies in Barcelona, where she developed a profound interest in Japanese culture and language.”
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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.đź“ť

Transcript

Describe a person you know from another country who speaks your language fluently. You should say
-who he/she is
-what country he/she is from
-how he/she learned your language
-and explain how you feel about this person

I’m going to talk about a remarkable individual named Maria, who speaks my native language, Japanese, fluently. Maria is from Spain and first encountered Japanese during her university studies in Barcelona, where she developed a profound interest in Japanese culture and language.

What truly sets Maria apart is her dedication and unconventional approach to learning Japanese. For example, instead of relying solely on textbooks and classroom instruction, she sought out authentic Japanese materials, such as novels, podcasts and films. Additionally, before she moved to Japan, Maria actively engaged with native Japanese speakers through language exchange programmes and online communities. She now lives in Tokyo and seamlessly integrates into Japanese society, displaying a level of cultural fluency that is rarely seen among foreign language learners.

As someone who grew up in Japan, I can say with confidence that Maria is truly fluent in Japanese. Her pronunciation is near-native, and she effortlessly navigates complex grammatical structures with skill. Her proficiency in Japanese fills me with admiration and respect, and I feel truly inspired when I am around her. Her commitment to mastering the language reflects a genuine love for Japanese culture and a willingness to embrace new challenges.

I feel very lucky to know an amazing person like Maria. Just being around her motivates my own language pursuits!

Thank you.

Lesson 148: Your village and native languageđź’¬

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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.”
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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.đź“ť

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 144: An event or ceremony most people go through in your culture🪔

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Here is the Part 2 cue card we are working with this week:

Describe an event or ceremony most people go through in your culture. You should say:
-what the event or ceremony is
-when people usually experience it
-how it affects people
and explain your opinion about it

Step 1: Listen to the model response.

Step 2: Tune in to this week’s podcast episode and practise saying some of the sentences from the response.

Step 3: Work through the full exercise.

Step 4: Read through the full transcript (below) and note any of the language items you found challenging this week.

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

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Transcript

Describe an event or ceremony most people go through in your culture. You should say:
-what the event or ceremony is
-when people usually experience it
-how it affects people
and explain your opinion about it

I’d like to talk about the traditional ceremony of Diwali, which is widely celebrated in my culture.

Typically, Diwali falls in October or November, depending on the lunar calendar. The festival lasts for five days, with the main day being marked by the lighting of oil lamps and candles. We do this to symbolise the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil.

Diwali has a profound impact on people in my culture. It is a time when families come together and adorn their houses with colourful decorations. This fosters a sense of unity and creates a positive and festive atmosphere. We also prepare sweet and savory dishes and exchange gifts to promote goodwill among friends and neighbours.

On a deeper level, Diwali holds cultural and spiritual significance. The rituals and prayers performed during the festival are believed to bring prosperity and good fortune. The symbolic significance of light dispelling darkness encourages introspection and pushes people to make positive changes in their life.

In my opinion, Diwali is not just a festival. It is a reflection of our cultural values and traditions. It brings joy and happiness to people’s lives, fostering a sense of belonging and community. The rituals associated with Diwali, such as lighting lamps and offering prayers, instill a sense of spirituality and mindfulness. Moreover, the emphasis on charity during Diwali encourages people to share their prosperity with those less fortunate. I believe that such traditions are essential in preserving the richness of our cultural heritage and promoting values that carry on for multiple generations.

Lesson 143: Video games🎮

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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.

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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 142: Children and change👦

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This week’s lesson explores the topic of ‘children and change’. This exercise uses an IELTS Speaking Part 3 model.

Step 1: Listen to this week’s model and familiarise yourself with the target language.

Step 2: In this week’s episode of IELTSCast, you will practise saying the response to the first two questions.

Step 3: Now that you have worked through the target language several times, try the full ‘repeat after me’ lesson.

Step 4: Reread the transcript below and note any and all new or challenging language in your notebook. A key follow-up step over the next few weeks is to attempt to use this language in your own day-to-day speaking.

Step 5: Complete the speaking exercises in your private Whatsapp group. Listen to the feedback you get from your instructor.

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Transcript

Do you think children generally find it difficult to accept change?

I guess it depends on the nature of the change and a child’s individual temperament. In my view, the unfamiliarity of new situations can make major changes very difficult to accept for most children.

In your opinion, is a change of routine good for children?

Yes, I believe a change of routine can be beneficial for children. It exposes them to different experiences, which fosters adaptability and crucial life skills such as problem-solving. However, the key lies in maintaining a balance because too much change too quickly might overwhelm a child.

Do you think it takes a long time for children to adjust to a new school?

The time it takes for children to adjust to a new school can vary significantly. Some children may adapt quickly, forming new friendships and becoming acclimatised within a short period. Others may require more time, especially if they face challenges in establishing connections or adapting to a different academic curriculum.

What factors might influence their adjustment process?

Several factors can influence a child’s adjustment to a new school. The support system at home, including the involvement of parents and the overall family environment, plays a crucial role. Additionally, the school’s atmosphere, the friendliness of classmates and the effectiveness of teachers in facilitating integration can significantly impact a child’s ability to adjust.

Do you believe that children never fully adjust to moving to a new place?

While it may take time, I believe most children do eventually adjust to moving to a new place. Children are remarkably resilient, and with the right support, they can adapt successfully. The adjustment process might differ for each child, but with time, most children can overcome the challenges associated with relocating.

Can frequent changes in a child’s life impact their development?

Yes, frequent changes in a child’s life can indeed have an impact on their development. Consistent instability may lead to feelings of insecurity and anxiety, potentially affecting their emotional well-being. However, it’s essential to note that not all changes are detrimental. Adapting to different situations can also enhance a child’s problem-solving skills and resilience. Striking a balance and providing a stable foundation for children during periods of change is crucial to ensuring positive development outcomes.

Thank you.

Episode 136: Someone who loves cooking🍳

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It is not uncommon to see topics like ‘food’ and ‘cooking’ on the IELTS. Today, you will practise to speak about a person that deeply enjoys cooking. This training is for Part 2 of the speaking exam.

Step 1: As with each week, we will start this lesson by listening to the model.

Step 2: This week’s episode of IELTSCast gives you a few sample sentences with which to train your speaking. There is a transcript below you can refer to if needed.

Step 3: Below is this week’s full lesson. If you do not yet have access to these full lessons, please click here.

Step 4: Read through the below transcript. Be sure to note any and all new language you come across.

Step 5: We now have Whatsapp groups! Contact Ryan to be added!

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Transcript

Describe someone who loves cooking. You should say:
-who this person is
-what kinds of dishes they usually cook
-who they usually cook for
And explain why you think this person enjoys cooking so much

I would like to talk about my aunt, Lauren, who is an ardent lover of cooking. She is a middle-aged woman with a passion for culinary arts that is truly inspiring.

Auntie Lauren is an exceptional cook and her culinary skills encompass a wide range of dishes from various cuisines. However, her specialty lies in preparing exquisite Italian dishes, particularly pasta and homemade pizzas. The aroma of her cooking often fills the entire house, creating an inviting atmosphere that captivates everyone’s senses.

Most frequently, she dedicates her culinary expertise to her immediate family – her husband and three children. Sunday dinners at her house have become a cherished tradition, with family members eagerly anticipating anything she prepares.

The reason behind Auntie Lauren’s unwavering love for cooking can be attributed to her belief that food has the power to bring people together. I think for her, cooking is a form of expression, a way to show love and care for those around her. Furthermore, my aunt once told me she views cooking as a therapeutic activity, a creative outlet through which she can experiment with flavours. She takes great pleasure in the entire process – from selecting the freshest ingredients to meticulously crafting each dish with precision and passion.

In conclusion, my aunt is a remarkable individual who loves cooking not only for the sheer joy it brings her but also as a means to connect with others.