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

Category: People

  • 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.

  • Lesson 125: Traditional celebrations in the modern world🎏

    This week, you will train to speak about the subject of ‘celebrations’.

    Step 1: Start this week’s lesson by listening to the model response.

    Step 2: Now listen to this week’s podcast episode and practise saying a few sentences from the model.

    Step 3: For those with paid subscriptions, work through this week’s full exercise.

    Step 4: Read through the below transcript and note all new language you have experienced today in your notebook. Make an effort to use this language in your own day-to-day speaking.

    Step 5: Submit your speaking sample to your Whatsapp group. Allow 24 hours for a response.

    Chat on WhatsApp

    Transcript

    In your culture, what are some traditional celebrations or events that are widely celebrated?

    In Indonesian culture, there are several traditional celebrations that hold significant importance. One of the most prominent festivals is the International Jazz Festival of Jakarta, which typically involves live performances by renowned jazz artists from around the world. Another noteworthy celebration is Independence Day, which provides an opportunity for the entire Indonesian community to come together. It is a time for family gatherings and various cultural activities.

    How have these traditional celebrations changed over the years?

    I think one of the most notable changes is the modernisation of customs and traditions. For instance, the International Jazz Festival of Jakarta has incorporated modern music technologies and global jazz trends into its performances. Independence Day has seen an increase in community engagement through social media and digital platforms.

    Do you think it’s important to preserve cultural traditions in today’s fast-paced world?

    Absolutely. I believe it’s essential to preserve cultural traditions in today’s fast-paced world. These traditions serve as a link to our heritage and help us maintain our cultural identity. Furthermore, cultural traditions often impart valuable life lessons, instill a sense of respect for diversity and foster a deep appreciation for our roots.

    Do you think celebrations and events have become more globalised in recent years?

    Yes, I do. With the advancement of technology and increased connectivity, the world has become a smaller place. As a result, people from different cultures and backgrounds have greater exposure to celebrations and events from around the globe, and this helps to highlight some common values between all cultures on Earth. For instance, Teachers’ Day is now celebrated in most countries around the world. This globalisation of celebrations can foster a sense of global unity among people from diverse backgrounds. While this global trend is positive in many ways, I think it’s also important to strike a balance between global influences and the preservation of local traditions.

    Thank you.

  • Lesson 123: Meeting new people and making friends🫂

    ‘People’ is a very common general topic on the IELTS, and this week you will train to speak more clearly about it. This is a IELTS Speaking Part 1 exercise.

    Step 1: Listen to the full model. (By the way, if you didn’t know, all of these exercises are scripted at the band 9 level by practising examiners.)

    Step 2: This week’s podcast episode gives you the opportunity to practise saying a few lines from the sample. Remember to push yourself to sound as much like the model as possible.

    Step 3: Find 21 minutes to complete the full exercise. It can be helpful to revisit these exercises from time to time, too. (Click here if you do not yet have access to these full lessons.)

    Step 4: Look at the below transcript. Are there language items that are new to you? Did you have any particular challenges saying parts of the response? Note all of this in your journal.

    Step 5: Complete all five of this week’s speech samples and submit them to your instructor for feedback.

    Transcript

    Do you work or study?

    I’m a full-time university student, studying Business Management.

    What do you like to do in your free time?

    I enjoy reading, playing the guitar and staying active by going for walks and doing yoga.

    Do you enjoy meeting new people?

    Yes, I do. Meeting new people broadens my horizons and allows me to learn from their experiences.

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

    I find it easiest to make friends with people who share similar interests and values. When we have common hobbies or beliefs, it provides a strong foundation for building a meaningful connection. Additionally, those who are open-minded, friendly and good listeners tend to be the people I naturally click with.

    Where is a good place to meet new people?

    There are several great places to meet new people, but I think community events and social gatherings are excellent opportunities. Whether it’s a local festival, a charity event or even a hobby club, these settings tend to attract like-minded individuals who are open to socialising and making new friends.

    In what situations is it difficult to make new friends?

    It can be challenging to make new friends when people are busy with work or studies. Also, in larger cities like Jakarta, busy lifestyles and cultural differences can make it harder to establish connections with strangers.

    Thank you.

  • Lesson 122: Board games and society🃏

    This is a lesson that trains you for Part 3 of the exam. In this lesson, you will examine the subject of ‘board games’ from a functional point of view.

    Part 1: Listen to the sample. There may be new words or phrases in this model, so try listening several times before consulting the below transcript.

    Part 2: The free podcast episode gives you a few ‘repeat after me’ sentences to start with. Work through this exercise to warm up for the longer, full exercise in Step 3.

    Part 3: Now try the full version of this exercise. Remember that it can be helpful to do these exercises more than once to help refine your pacing, intonation and overall accent.

    Part 4: Read through the below transcript. You could consider even printing it out to allow you to identify areas you want to target/review down the road. If you have any questions about the model, please post them as a comment on this lesson.

    Part 5: Complete all five of this week’s speaking exercises in your Whatsapp group. Your instructor will provide you feedback on each speaking sample within 24 hours of you sending it.

    Chat on WhatsApp

    Transcript

    Why do you think games are popular at social gatherings and family events?

    I think they are popular because of their ability to foster a sense of camaraderie and engagement. They act as icebreakers, encouraging people to interact and bond over shared experiences…thereby breaking any initial awkwardness. Furthermore, games inject an element of fun and excitement into these gatherings, making them enjoyable for everyone involved.

    In what ways do games contribute to improving social skills and communication among people?

    I would say games encourage effective verbal and non-verbal communication, as players must explain rules and strategies. This enhances interpersonal communication skills by encouraging people to speak clearly and listen actively. Games also often involve teamwork and collaboration, which fosters a sense of cooperation and trust among participants. I would say these are the main ways in which games improve a person’s social skills.

    Some people argue that board games can be educational. What are your thoughts on this?

    I wholeheartedly agree with the notion that board games can be highly educational. Board games often incorporate various cognitive skills, including critical thinking, problem solving and strategic planning, and they often are explicitly designed for educational purposes, covering topics such as mathematics, history and language acquisition. For example, my nephew’s geography improved dramatically while playing the game Risk, which involves intercontinental battle between players on a world map.

    What types of board games do you believe will be popular in the future?

    Hmm I imagine future board games will integrate augmented reality or even virtual reality. Additionally, I think games could do a lot to promote themes of social responsibility, such as the importance of sustainability and environmental awareness. Ultimately, the future of board games will likely be shaped by the evolving interests and values of society, but I don’t think they’ll ever lose their appeal as a source of social interaction and entertainment.

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

  • Lesson 112: A trustworthy person💙

    This week’s cue card asks you to speak about a person:

    Talk about a trustworthy person you know. You should say:
    -how you met this person
    -how long you’ve known this person
    -why you feel they are trustworthy
    and say what they did to gain your trust

    Step 1: Listen to the full sample.

    Step 2: Watch this week’s podcast episode and try the sample ‘repeat after me’ sentences.

    Step 3: Work through the full video exercise.

    Step 4: Read through the below transcript.

    Step 5: Post your speech samples to your Whatsapp group.

    Transcript

    Talk about a trustworthy person you know. You should say:
    -how you met this person
    -how long you’ve known this person
    -why you feel they are trustworthy
    and say what they did to gain your trust

    Well, I would like to talk about a person whom I consider to be extremely trustworthy. His name is John, and I first met him during my freshman year of college, which was about five years ago.

    To provide some background, John and I were assigned as roommates in the college dormitory. From the very beginning, he exhibited qualities that made me feel I could trust him completely. For example, during our first or perhaps second week of living as roommates, I accidentally misplaced my wallet containing important identification documents, credit cards and a considerable amount of cash.

    Naturally, I was overwhelmed and stressed, fearing the consequences of losing such crucial items. However, without any hesitation, John assured me that we would search for the wallet together. We retraced my steps meticulously and eventually found my wallet tucked away in a jacket pocket I had forgotten about.

    What truly touched me was John’s selfless behavior throughout the process. We did not yet know each other very well, and he could have easily ignored my predicament or even taken advantage of the situation, but instead, he stood by me as a loyal friend. His commitment to helping me, without expecting anything in return, solidified my trust in him.

    Moreover, John’s dedication to maintaining confidentiality further strengthens my belief in his trustworthiness. On numerous occasions, I have shared my personal struggles and concerns with him, knowing that he would keep them in utmost confidence. 

    In summary, through his consistent honesty, reliability and willingness to go above and beyond, John has proved himself to be an incredibly trustworthy person.

  • Lesson 108: Gifts and giving🫴

    This week’s lesson requires you speak about gifts and giving.

    Step 1: Listen to the full sample.

    Step 2: Work through this week’s sample exercise.

    Step 3: Now work through the full exercise. Consult the below transcript if needed.

    Step 4: Read through the below transcript.

    Step 5: Work through this week’s daily exercises with your Whatsapp instructor.

    Transcript

    Why do people give gifts to each other?


    People give gifts to each other for various reasons. Firstly, gift-giving is a way to express love, appreciation, and gratitude towards others. It allows individuals to convey their feelings and strengthen personal relationships. Additionally, giving gifts on special occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries, and holidays is a cultural tradition that brings joy and creates a sense of celebration.

    Do you think expensive gifts are more meaningful than inexpensive ones?


    The meaning of a gift is subjective and can vary from person to person. While expensive gifts may be associated with financial investment and perceived luxury, the true significance of a gift lies in the thought and sentiment behind it. Inexpensive gifts can be just as meaningful, as they often reflect personal thoughtfulness, creativity, and understanding of the recipient’s preferences and interests.

    What are the advantages and disadvantages of giving cash as a gift?


    Giving cash as a gift has both advantages and disadvantages. One advantage is that it provides the recipient with the freedom to choose something they truly desire or need, ensuring they get exactly what they want. However, a major disadvantage of giving cash is that it can be perceived as impersonal or lacking thoughtfulness compared to a carefully chosen gift.

    In your opinion, what makes a gift memorable and special?


    To my mind, a gift becomes memorable and special when it goes beyond a material object and creates a lasting emotional impact. I guess what I’m trying to say is that personalisation plays a crucial role. A gift that is tailored to the recipient’s interests, hobbies or aspirations shows thoughtfulness and consideration. The element of surprise can also enhance the memorability of a gift. Unexpected gestures or unique experiences associated with the gift can leave a lasting impression. 

    Should people feel obligated to reciprocate when they receive a gift?


    While the act of reciprocating a gift is often viewed as a social norm, I don’t think individuals should feel obligated to reciprocate. Reciprocity should stem from genuine appreciation and the desire to express gratitude, rather than a sense of obligation. It is important to recognise that the true value of a gift lies in the act of giving itself.

  • Lesson 107: Friendship👬

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

    Step 1: Listen to the full sample.

    Step 2: Work through the sample exercise.

    Step 3: Complete the full speech shadowing exercise.

    Step 4: Read through the below transcript.

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

    Chat on WhatsApp

    Transcript

    Where are you from?

    I am originally from New York City.

    Do you work or study?

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

    When do you feel happy at work?

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

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

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

    Is making friends easy for you?

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

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

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

  • Lesson 104: A person you would like to work or study with👨‍🏫

    This week’s lesson uses the following Part 2 cue card:

    Talk about a person you want to work or study with. You should say:
    -who the person is
    -how you know him/her
    -what he/she does
    -and explain why you want to work or study with this person

    Step 1: Listen to the full sample.

    Step 2: Work through this week’s sample exercise.

    Step 3: Now attempt the full exercise below.

    Step 4: Read through the below transcript and note any and all language you found challenging this week.

    Step 5: Complete your speech samples and send them to your Whatsapp instructor.

    Chat on WhatsApp

    Transcript

    Talk about a person you want to work or study with. You should say:
    -who the person is
    -how you know him/her
    -what he/she does
    -and explain why you want to work or study with this person

    The person I would like to work or study with is my former professor, Dr. Maria Hernandez. I got to know her during my undergraduate years at university, where she was my lecturer for several courses related to my major in psychology.

    Dr. Hernandez is an accomplished academic with over 20 years of experience in teaching and research. She has published numerous papers in top-tier academic journals and has received multiple awards and accolades for her contributions to the field. Her research interests in social psychology, particularly on group dynamics and intergroup relations, align with my own research interests and aspirations.

    I would love to work or study with Dr. Hernandez for several reasons. First, she is an excellent mentor who is supportive and encouraging. She has always been approachable and responsive to my questions and concerns, and has provided invaluable guidance and feedback on my academic work. Second, her research expertise and experience would be a valuable asset for any project or collaboration. Working with her would not only enhance my own skills and knowledge, but also provide opportunities for networking and collaboration with other scholars in the field. Finally, Dr. Hernandez’s passion for teaching and learning is infectious, and I am confident that working or studying with her would be a stimulating and rewarding experience.

    In conclusion, Dr. Maria Hernandez’s expertise, mentorship, and passion for teaching and research would be invaluable in achieving my academic and professional goals, and I would relish the opportunity to collaborate with her on future projects.

  • Lesson 99: Movie preferences📽️

    Sometimes people ask broad questions like “Is shadowing good or bad?” or “Is shadowing useful?” I hope lessons like this one convince you that shadowing is key to your IELTS Speaking preparation! In this lesson, you are going to shadow speech patterns on the topic of ‘movie preferences’.

    Step 1: Listen to the full sample.

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

    Step 3: Work through the full speech shadowing exercise.

    Step 4: Read through the below transcript and make special note of the new or challenging language you shadowed this week.

    Step 5: Complete all five of your shadowing exercises with your Whatsapp instructor.

    Chat on WhatsApp

    Transcript

    Do you often watch movies twice?
    I would say that I rarely watch a movie twice. However, there are some movies that I have enjoyed so much that I have watched them multiple times. For instance, I have watched “The Shawshank Redemption” a few times because I think it is a classic movie that has a great storyline and excellent performances by the actors. Generally, I believe that watching a movie twice can be beneficial as it allows the viewer to notice certain details that they may have missed the first time around. It also gives them a chance to appreciate the nuances of the film and to develop a deeper understanding of the story.

    Why do some movies remain people’s favourite forever, no matter when they were released?
    I think some movies remain people’s favourite because they have timeless themes and universal appeal. These movies almost always deal with human emotions and experiences that are relatable to people of all ages and cultures. Additionally, these movies often have excellent storytelling, great acting, and memorable characters that resonate with viewers. Furthermore, some movies become classics because they were groundbreaking in their time and have had a significant impact on the film industry, influencing future filmmakers and shaping the direction of cinema.

    How do people usually choose which movies to watch?
    People usually choose which movies to watch based on several factors, including their interests, recommendations from friends or family, reviews, and the movie’s genre, actors, or director. Some people also choose to watch a movie based on its trailer or promotional media, which can give them a sense of the film’s tone and style. Ultimately, the decision to watch a movie is often influenced by personal preferences and individual tastes.

    Do you think people’s taste in movies is influenced by their age, gender or culture?
    I believe these things can be influential to some extent, yes. For example, younger viewers may be more drawn to action or superhero movies, while older viewers may prefer dramas or romantic comedies. As far as gender is concerned…the women in my family are much more interested in comedy and drama movies than the men. This could perhaps be gender related. Additionally, people’s cultural background can also influence their preferences, as different cultures may have different storytelling traditions and styles of filmmaking. However, it is important to note that individual taste is also shaped by personal experiences and individual preferences.

    Do you think the popularity of certain actors or actresses influences people’s choice of movies?
    Yes, I believe the popularity of certain actors or actresses can influence people’s choice of movies. Fans of a particular actor or actress may be more likely to watch a movie simply because their favourite actor is in it. Additionally, the presence of a popular actor or actress can also help to create buzz and generate interest in a movie, especially if they have a large following on social media or are known for delivering great performances. However, it is important to note that the popularity of an actor or actress is not the only factor that determines a person’s movie choice. Other factors such as the storyline, direction, and production value also play a significant role.

    Thank you. This marks the end of the speaking exam.

  • Lesson 95: A person who dresses well👔

    This week’s English shadowing technique pushes you to speak about a person who dresses well. Here is the cue card used in this section:

    Describe a person who dresses well. You should say:
    -who the person is
    -how you know him or her
    -how often you see him or her
    -and explain why you think this person dresses well

    Step 1: Listen to the full model response.

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

    Step 3: Complete the full speech shadowing exercise using the below video.

    Step 4: Read the below transcript and note the new language you encountered today.

    Step 5: Submit your five speaking samples to your Whatsapp instructor.

    Chat on WhatsApp

    Transcript

    Describe a person who dresses well. You should say:
    -who the person is
    -how you know him or her
    -how often you see him or her
    -and explain why you think this person dresses well

    I would like to talk about my friend Jack who I believe has a great sense of fashion and dresses exceptionally well. Jack is a friend of mine from university, and we have known each other for over five years. We met during our freshman year, and since then we have been good friends.

    I see Jack quite often, as we are still in touch even after graduating from university. We usually hang out together every couple of weeks, and I always look forward to seeing him.

    The thing that sets Jack apart from others when it comes to fashion is his ability to mix and match different styles and create a unique look. He always seems to know what’s trendy and fashionable, but he doesn’t blindly follow trends. Instead, he adapts them to his own personal style and makes it work for him. He also pays attention to the little details, such as matching the colour of his shoes with his belt.

    Moreover, Jack’s clothes are always well-fitted, which I think is crucial for a person to dress well. His outfits are neither too tight nor too loose, and they always seem to flatter his body type. He also experiments with different colours and patterns and manages to pull them off effortlessly.

    I think Jack dresses well because he has a great sense of style, pays attention to details, and knows how to dress for his body type. He inspires me to be more adventurous with my own fashion choices, and I’m always excited to see what he’ll be wearing the next time we meet.