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

Category: People

  • Lesson 148: Your village and native language💬

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Post yourself saying this into your Whatsapp group!🗣️📲

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

    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🪔

    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🎮

    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👦

    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🍳

    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.

  • Lesson 134: Helping and volunteering🪴

    This week we’re looking at a Part 3 sample. The examiner asks several questions about young people and the different ways in which young people can help their parents and society.

    Step 1: Let’s start by listening to the sample:

    Step 2: Now that you have familiarised yourself with this week’s model response, have a listen to the podcast episode:

    Step 3: For paid subscribers, below is the full lesson. (If you have not yet joined, click here!)

    Step 4: Read through the below transcript and be sure to note any new language you come across in your journal. Actively try to use this language in your own day-to-day speaking.

    We’ve been talking about helping others, and I would like to ask you a few more questions about this topic. Do you like to help others?

    Absolutely. I find great satisfaction in contributing to the well-being of others, be it in small everyday gestures or more significant acts of kindness.

    How can children help their parents?

    Children can contribute to their parents’ well-being in various ways. Simple tasks like helping with household chores, such as tidying up their rooms or assisting with cooking, can make a significant difference. Additionally, showing appreciation and respect for their parents’ efforts can create a positive and supportive family environment.

    Why do you think some children don’t like helping their parents?

    I guess one reason for this reluctance might be the age and developmental stage of the child. Younger children might not fully comprehend the value of helping, while teenagers may be preoccupied with academic or social pressures. Moreover, the way parents approach and encourage their children can also influence their willingness to help.

    What are some ways in which children can help their classmates?

    Children can offer assistance academically, especially in subjects where they excel. Collaborative learning environments, group projects and encouraging teamwork can enhance the overall learning experience for everyone involved.

    Should children do volunteer work?

    I think volunteer work can be highly beneficial for children. It not only instills a sense of social responsibility but also helps develop empathy and compassion. Furthermore, volunteering exposes children to diverse experiences and communities, which broadens their perspective of the world.

    Is volunteering beneficial for young people?

    It certainly is. Volunteering provides young people with valuable life skills, such as teamwork, communication and problem-solving. It also cultivates a sense of civic duty and a heightened awareness of societal issues. I feel it also pushes young people to develop as responsible and compassionate individuals, preparing them to face the challenges of the wider world.

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

  • Lesson 133: A person who always offers a helping hand to others💛

    Step 1: This week we’re looking at a Part 2 cue card on the topic of ‘a helpful person’. Let’s start by reading what the cue card says:

    Describe a person who lives in your area and always offers a helping hand to others. You should say
    -who this person is
    -how he/she helps others
    -why he/she does it
    And explain how you feel about this person

    Now listen to the full model response:

    Step 2: Watch this week’s podcast episode and get familiar with the language used in the exercise.

    Step 3: No work your way through the entire ‘repeat after me’ exercise. Remember to mimic every blended or dropped sound. Be sure your pacing is in keeping with the model.

    Step 4: Read through the below transcript and make note of all the new language items you learned today. Review your journal entry regularly and push yourself to use this language in your own day-to-day speaking.

    Describe a person who lives in your area and always offers a helping hand to others. You should say
    -who this person is
    -how he/she helps others
    -why he/she does it
    And explain how you feel about this person

    I’d like to talk about a remarkable individual in my community who consistently extends a helping hand to others – Mrs. Smith. She is a retired school teacher in her late 60s and she and I have resided in the same neighbourhood for the past three decades.

    Mrs. Smith’s helpfulness is evident in many ways, but her most notable contribution is in tutoring local children after school hours. She voluntarily dedicates a few hours each day to assist students with their homework and provide additional support in subjects they find challenging. Furthermore, she has established a small community library in her home, where she lends books to children who may not have access to such resources otherwise.

    The driving force behind Mrs. Smith’s generous actions is her unwavering belief in the transformative power of education. Having spent the majority of her life as an educator, she is passionate about ensuring that every child in our community has the opportunity to succeed academically.

    Personally, I am deeply inspired by Mrs. Smith’s dedication and kindness. Witnessing her commitment to the community has instilled a sense of communal responsibility within me. Her selflessness serves as a reminder that even small acts of kindness can have a profound impact on the lives of those around us.

    Mrs. Smith is an exemplary figure in our community, and I feel fortunate to know such a compassionate and community-minded person.

  • Lesson 131: Young people and independence🧮

    This is a lesson that focuses on Part 3 of the IELTS Speaking exam.

    Step 1: Listen to this week’s full sample.

    Step 2: Practise repeating a few sentences from the model in this week’s IELTSCast episode.

    Step 3: Complete this week’s full lesson. (Click here if you do not yet have access.)

    Step 4: Review the below transcript and remember to note any new language you come across.

    Transcript

    Do you think nowadays young people have to become independent at a younger age compared to the past?

    Absolutely. In contemporary society, the pace of life has accelerated, and this has required young people grow up faster than in previous generations. The job market is more competitive and demands young professionals demonstrate autonomy and self-reliance. For example, people switch career paths way more now than they did in the past, and this requires people be more self-reliant and less dependent on a long-term employer.

    How does moving out of the family home contribute to a young person’s sense of independence?

    Moving out is a pivotal step towards autonomy. It exposes individuals to the complexities of managing a household, handling bills and making decisions independently. Living away from the family provides a platform for personal growth, encouraging individuals to confront challenges, solve problems and build resilience.

    What responsibilities do young adults typically face when they move out of their parents’ home?

    Young adults take on a spectrum of responsibilities when they move out. Managing finances, such as rent, utilities and daily expenses, becomes a central concern. Household chores, meal planning and even addressing unforeseen issues require consistent attention. I would even include things like taking on responsibility for personal health.

    How can financial challenges impact a young person’s ability to live independently?

    Financial challenges can be a substantial hurdle. Limited financial resources may hinder the person’s ability to secure stable housing or afford basic necessities. This, in turn, can lead to increased stress and other health problems that might aggravate financial issues further.

    Do you think moving out affects the relationship between parents and their children? In what ways?

    Undoubtedly, moving out reshapes the parent-child dynamic. While physical distance may initially strain the relationship, it also provides an opportunity for a more mature and egalitarian connection. Both parties learn to appreciate each other’s perspectives, and the relationship transforms into one built on mutual respect and understanding. The periodic reunions become cherished moments, fostering a deeper and more evolved bond between parents and their independent children.

  • Episode 130: Someone you know who moved into a new accommodation🏢

    This is a lesson that examines a Part 2 cue card that prompts you to speak about a person you know who moved into a new accommodation. Here is a copy of the cue card:

    Talk about someone you know who has moved to a new accommodation. You should say:
    -who this person is
    -when they moved
    -where they moved
    and explain whether or not the move has had a positive impact on them

    Step 1: Listen to the model response.

    Step 2: Here is this week’s podcast episode. This gives you the opportunity to train using a few of the sentences from the model.

    Step 3: Below is the full lesson. This is the paid portion of these training materials, so please click here if you do not yet have access.

    Step 4: If you haven’t already done so, read through the below transcript and remember to note all new language in your personal training journal.

    Step 5: Now that you have finished your independent training, go to your Whatsapp group and submit your speaking sample to your trainer.

    Chat on WhatsApp

    Transcript

    Talk about someone you know who has moved to a new accommodation. You should say:
    -who this person is
    -when they moved
    -where they moved
    and explain whether or not the move has had a positive impact on them

    I’d like to talk about a colleague of mine named Emily, who recently made a significant move to a new accommodation. Emily is a person I work with, and we’ve developed a friendship over the past few years.

    She decided to make this move about three months ago – I think it was about August of this year. This decision to move was primarily for career advancement and to be closer to our workplace, which is in the heart of the city. Before, she had been commuting for almost two hours daily!

    Emily’s new accommodation is an apartment in a modern complex. The area is known for its vibrant community, diverse cultural amenities and convenient access to public transportation. The apartment itself is spacious, well-furnished and provides a stunning view of the city skyline.

    From what Emily has shared with me, the move has had an overwhelmingly positive impact on her life. Firstly, the reduction in commute time has allowed her to reclaim several hours each day, which she can now allocate to personal pursuits and relaxation. Moreover, the new neighbourhood has exposed her to a range of social activities and events, providing opportunities to meet new people and expand her social circle.

    So overall I would say Emily’s recent move to a new accommodation has undeniably had a positive impact on her overall quality of life.

  • Lesson 128: Talking about projects at work🗂️

    This lesson examines questions that were asked in Part 3 of a recent IELTS Speaking exam. It includes a very good exercise that will help you learn to speak about one of the most common topics in IELTS Speaking: work.

    Step 1: Listen to this week’s full sample. If any of the vocabulary is new to you, consult the transcript below.

    Step 2: Listen to this week’s podcast episode, which includes a helpful few ‘repeat after me’ sentences that you can train with.

    Step 3: Complete the full exercise. This video includes prompts to help you repeat the language accurately.

    Step 4: Critical to your progress as a speaker of English is your ability to include new vocabulary items in your day-to-day speaking. To support your efforts, reread the below transcript and write the new language items in your study journal.

    Step 5: Submit your speech samples to your Whatsapp instructor.

    Chat on WhatsApp

    Transcript

    How important is it for employees to take on challenging projects at work?

    Taking on challenging projects at work is of paramount importance. It not only helps employees grow and develop professionally but also contributes significantly to the overall success of the organisation. Challenging projects provide employees with the opportunity to expand their skill set, learn new things and think creatively. In fact, the ability to handle challenging projects is often a key differentiator in one’s career progression, as it showcases a person’s problem solving skills, leadership potential and adaptability.

    What skills are necessary to successfully handle challenging projects?

    Handling challenging projects successfully demands a diverse set of skills. Firstly, problem solving skills are crucial. Employees should be able to analyse complex issues, identify potential solutions and make informed decisions. Additionally, effective communication and teamwork are essential for collaboration and sharing ideas within the team. I would also say that time management and organisational skills are necessary to ensure that tasks are completed on schedule. Those are the main skills that come to mind.

    How do you think technology has changed the way people approach and complete work-related projects?

    Technology has revolutionised the way people approach and complete work-related projects. It has streamlined processes, increased efficiency and expanded the possibilities of what can be achieved. For example, as we saw during COVID, digital tools made it possible for employees to collaborate seamlessly from different locations. Technology has thus accelerated the pace of work and made remote work more viable.

    How should a person or team respond when a project doesn’t go as planned?

    When a project doesn’t go as planned, it is essential to respond with a constructive approach. The first step should be to conduct a thorough post-mortem analysis to understand what went wrong and why. Identifying the root causes of the issues is crucial for preventing similar problems in the future. Communication within the team and with stakeholders is also key because this keeps everyone informed of the situation and the steps being taken to address it. One final but critical step is to maintain a positive and solution oriented mindset. Setbacks are inherent in most projects, and a resilient team that can learn from its mistakes is more likely to rebound quickly.