-what room this is -what the room looks like -who uses this room the most
and explain what you like or dislike about this room
I’d like to talk about the living room in my house. It’s the heart of our household, where my family and I gather to relax, entertain guests and spend quality time together.
The living room is spacious and well-lit, thanks to a large window that allows plenty of natural light. The walls are painted a calming pastel colour, and there’s a stitched rug that adds a touch of coziness. In terms of furniture, the room has a comfortable L-shaped sofa and a wooden media unit that houses the TV. There’s also a small bookshelf in the corner, which has books and a few family photos.
While everyone in my family uses the living room, I’d say it’s my parents who spend the most time there. My dad enjoys sitting on the sofa with a cup of tea, reading the newspaper in the morning, while my mum often watches her favourite TV shows in the evenings.
What I love most about this room is its versatility. It’s perfect for unwinding after a long day, yet it’s also a welcoming space for socialising. The natural light during the day and the warm glow of the lamps in the evening make it feel cozy and inviting at any hour. The only thing I dislike is the positioning of the furniture. I think a more open layout would enhance the room’s functionality.
Overall, the living room holds a lot of cherished memories, which makes it very special to me.
Talk about a place you visited where everything was expensive. You should say
– what the place was – when you went there – why you think everything there was expensive
and explain whether or not you would visit this place again.
A place I visited that I found to be exceptionally expensive is Dubai, UAE. I visited the city about two years ago during my winter holidays.
I stayed in a luxurious area near the iconic Burj Khalifa, and I was immediately struck by the opulence everywhere. The hotels, restaurants, and even everyday activities seemed tailored to a high-end clientele. For instance, I recall dining at a restaurant with a view of the Dubai Fountain, and while the meal was amazing, the bill left me speechless.
There are a few reasons why everything there is so expensive. For one, Dubai is a global hub for luxury tourism, catering to wealthy visitors from around the world. The city invests heavily in creating world-class entertainment, and the costs are naturally passed on to consumers. Also, many of the goods and services are imported, and this of course adds to their price.
Despite the high costs, I thoroughly enjoyed my time there because the city offers a unique blend of cultural experiences and stunning architecture. I would happily visit again!
This week we’re looking at Part 1 questions on the topic of ‘exercise’.
Step 1: Tune in to this week’s lesson. (Audio and video version below.)
This week’s Part 1 questions:
Where do you live? Can you describe your hometown? What is your favourite place to visit in your hometown? How easy is it to walk around your hometown? Let’s talk about exercise. Do you like to exercise? What kind of exercise do you most regularly do? Is this kind of exercise popular in your country?
Step 2: Listen to the sample a few times to get more familiar with the language.
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!🗣️📲
Muscat is a city that blends traditional and modern elements. For example, you’ll find ancient forts like Al Mirani, which dates back centuries, standing alongside contemporary landmarks such as the Royal Opera House. The people are very internationally minded. It’s a great place to live.
Step 5: It’s very important that you note any new language items or pronunciation points from this week’s lesson in your journal to help you chronicle your improvement.📝
Transcript
Where do you live? I live in Muscat. It is the capital city of Oman.
Can you describe your hometown? Muscat is a city that blends traditional and modern elements. For example, you’ll find ancient forts like Al Mirani, which dates back centuries, standing alongside contemporary landmarks such as the Royal Opera House. The people are very internationally minded. It’s a great place to live.
What is your favourite place to visit in your hometown? My favourite spot is Mutrah Souq, an enchanting traditional market near the coast. There you can find stalls selling everything from spices and textiles to jewellery and antiques.
How easy is it to walk around your hometown? Walking around Muscat can be enjoyable in specific areas, such as the walkway along the coast or within parks like Qurum Natural Park. However, the city is spread out, and the weather can be quite hot, especially in the summer, so walking isn’t always practical.
Let’s talk about exercise. Do you like to exercise? Yes, I enjoy exercising, as it helps me stay fit and reduces stress.
What kind of exercise do you most regularly do? I regularly go for evening walks. There is a beautiful walkway along the coast in my city. The sea breeze and the stunning views of the harbour make it a refreshing and enjoyable activity.
Is this kind of exercise popular in your country? Yes, walking is quite popular in Oman, especially during the cooler months. The country’s diverse landscapes, from mountains to beaches, provide plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. Many people see these as great ways to enjoy Oman’s natural beauty while staying active.
This week we’re looking at Part 3 questions on the topic of ‘museums’. This was a topic seen on a very recent IELTS Speaking exam!
Step 1: Tune in to this week’s lesson. (Audio and video version below.)
This week’s Part 3 questions:
Should museums charge admission fees, or should they be free for citizens? Do you think making museums free could increase tourism within a country? How can the cost of visiting cultural sites affect tourism? What kinds of museums do you most enjoy visiting? Would you ever like to work in a museum? Do museums play an important role in society?
Step 2: Listen to the sample a few times to get more familiar with the language.
Step 4: Below is Monday’s speech exercise. Post yourself saying this excerpt to your Whatsapp group. Exercises for Tuesday to Friday will be posted in the group by your instructor. (If you have not yet been added to a group, click here to sign up – select ‘Join a Whatsapp group’.)
Post yourself saying this into your Whatsapp group!🗣️📲
“In my opinion, museums should ideally be free for citizens, as this promotes greater access to cultural and historical knowledge. This is essential for fostering a well-informed and culturally aware society.”
Step 5: It’s very important that you note any new language items or pronunciation points from this week’s lesson in your journal to help you chronicle your improvement.📝
Transcript
Should museums charge admission fees, or should they be free for citizens?
In my opinion, museums should ideally be free for citizens, as this promotes greater access to cultural and historical knowledge. This is essential for fostering a well-informed and culturally aware society.
Do you think making museums free could increase tourism within a country?
Yes, I do believe that making museums free could be a draw for tourists. Many travellers look for ways to immerse themselves in a country’s heritage, and free museum access could be a strong incentive.
How can the cost of visiting cultural sites affect tourism?
I think high entry fees may discourage some visitors, leading them to seek more affordable activities. When cultural sites are priced modestly, it makes it possible for tourists of all backgrounds to enjoy and learn about a place’s history, art and culture.
What kinds of museums do you most enjoy visiting?
I am most drawn to art museums and history museums. Art museums captivate me with their diverse collections that span centuries and continents, offering insight into various cultures and artistic movements. History museums, on the other hand, fascinate me with their focus on the evolution of life and ancient civilizations.
Would you ever like to work in a museum?
Yes, working in a museum is something I would definitely consider. Museums are treasure troves of knowledge, and the idea of contributing to the preservation of history and culture is very appealing. I also think I would enjoy helping visitors connect with the past in meaningful ways.
Do museums play an important role in society?
Absolutely. Museums play a vital role in society by preserving history and educating the public. They safeguard artifacts that might otherwise be lost to time. Museums also provide a shared space for learning and reflection.
This week we look at a new Part 2 cue card (see below).
Step 1: Tune in to this week’s lesson. (Audio and video version below.)
This week’s cue card:
Talk about a popular public location in your country. You should say: -where this place is -what people do there -why it is popular and explain how you feel about this place
Step 2: Listen to the sample a few times to get more familiar with the language.
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’m from Los Angeles in the United States. A highly visited location in Los Angeles is Venice Beach. It’s known for its mix of art, recreation and local culture.
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
Talk about a popular public location in your country. You should say: -where this place is -what people do there -why it is popular and explain how you feel about this place
I’m from Los Angeles in the United States. A highly visited location in Los Angeles is Venice Beach. It’s known for its mix of art, recreation and local culture.
Venice Beach is located west of downtown, and it attracts both locals and tourists who come for the beach life and the vibrant boardwalk. Here, people can walk or cycle along the boardwalk and shop for handmade items at small vendor stalls. The area also has skate parks and open-air gyms, including the iconic Muscle Beach, where bodybuilders train in front of audiences.
Venice Beach is celebrated for its eclectic and energetic environment. It combines California’s beach culture with artistic and bohemian vibes. Its famous canals, which were designed to be similar to Venice, Italy, add a quiet contrast to the more lively atmosphere of the boardwalk.
For me, Venice Beach represents the spirit of Los Angeles. It’s a place where diverse communities and creative expressions come together. The mix of natural beauty, art and open-minded culture makes it an inspiring place to visit, and I find the lively energy there refreshing. It’s a space where you can observe a unique blend of art and individuality that’s hard to find anywhere else.
This week we’re looking at a Part 2 cue card that asks you to speak about a time when you interacted with an animal.
Step 1: Tune in to this week’s lesson. (Audio and video version below.)
Part 2 cue card Describe a time when you interacted with an animal. You should say: What kind of animal it was Where you were and what you did with the animal How the experience made you feel And explain whether you would like to spend more time with this kind of animal in the future
Step 2: Listen to the sample a few times to get more familiar with the language.
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 memorable experience I had with a sea turtle. This took place during a holiday in Spain. I visited a local wildlife sanctuary that had a special section dedicated to marine life, and this area included sea turtles.”
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
Part 2 cue card Describe a time when you interacted with an animal. You should say: What kind of animal it was Where you were and what you did with the animal How the experience made you feel And explain whether you would like to spend more time with this kind of animal in the future
I’d like to talk about a memorable experience I had with a sea turtle. This took place during a holiday in Spain. I visited a local wildlife sanctuary that had a special section dedicated to marine life, and this area included sea turtles.
At the sanctuary, I was given the opportunity to assist the staff in feeding the turtles as part of a conservation programme. I helped prepare a mixture of vegetables and fish, which was the turtles’ preferred food. Once the food was ready, I gently placed it in the water. A few moments later, one of the turtles swam up and slowly started to eat it!
This experience made me feel deeply connected to nature. It was a humbling reminder of the vast diversity of life on our planet and how much we can learn from creatures that live so differently from us. I also felt a sense of responsibility toward protecting endangered species like this one, as they are so vulnerable to human activity.
As for whether I’d like to spend more time with this kind of animal: absolutely. Turtles are peaceful, ancient creatures, and being around them has a calming effect. I’d love to be involved in more conservation efforts. It would give me more chances to learn about turtle behaviour and contribute to their preservation.
This week we’re looking at Part 3 questions that expand on the topic of ‘your hometown’.
Step 1: (No podcast episode published this week. Please proceed to Step 2.)
Part 3 questions What is your hometown most well known for? Is it easy for a person to become integrated in your hometown? Do many tourists visit your hometown? What are some of the challenges your hometown faces today? Would you say your hometown is a good place for young people to live?
Step 2: Listen to the sample a few times to get more familiar with the language.
Step 4: Below is Monday’s speech exercise. Post yourself saying this excerpt to your Whatsapp group. Exercises for Tuesday to Friday will be posted in the group by your instructor. (If you have not yet been added to a group, click here to sign up – select ‘Join a Whatsapp group’.)
Post yourself saying this into your Whatsapp group!🗣️📲
“My hometown is a small town in Ontario. I would say it is most well known for its rich agricultural roots. It hosts the oldest agricultural fair in Canada: The Carp Fair. It also has a Cold War-era underground bunker that has been transformed into Canada’s Cold War Museum. I would say these two things would be our biggest attractions.”
Step 5: It’s very important that you note any new language items or pronunciation points from this week’s lesson in your journal to help you chronicle your improvement.📝
Transcript
What is your hometown most well known for?
My hometown is a small town in Ontario. I would say it is most well known for its rich agricultural roots. It hosts the oldest agricultural fair in Canada: The Carp Fair. It also has a Cold War-era underground bunker that has been transformed into Canada’s Cold War Museum. I would say these two things would be our biggest attractions.
Is it easy for a person to become integrated in your hometown?
Yes. My hometown doesn’t really have a definitive identity, so I think newcomers find it easy to blend in. Also, because of its smaller size, it’s easy to get to know your neighbours.
Do many tourists visit your hometown?
While my hometown doesn’t attract the volume of tourists that larger cities do, it does see a steady stream of visitors. The Cold War Museum I was mentioning is a unique historical site that draws both history enthusiasts and school groups. Also, tourists who enjoy rural getaways often visit Carp for its serene landscapes and farmer’s markets in the summer and fall.
What are some of the challenges your hometown faces today?
I would say my hometown’s major challenge is balancing growth while maintaining its rural character. As neighbouring Ottawa expands, there is the risk that my hometown will become amalgamated. Some people see this as a threat to the small-town lifestyle and local businesses that residents cherish.
Would you say your hometown is a good place for young people to live?
Carp offers a peaceful and safe environment, which can be ideal for young families or those who prefer a slower pace of life. It has a strong sense of community, and its proximity to Ottawa means young people have access to urban job opportunities and higher education. Overall, it’s a good place for those who appreciate a balance between rural and urban living.
This week we’re looking at a Part 2 cue card on the topic of ‘a special place in your hometown’.
Step 1: Tune in to this week’s podcast episode (audio and video version below).
Describe a place in your hometown that is special to you. You should say: -what this place is -where it is located -how often you visit it and explain why this place is special to you.
Step 2: Listen to the sample a few times to get more familiar with the language.
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!🗣️📲
“A place that is particularly special to me is a small hill located just outside my old high school. This hill, though modest in size, offers an incredible view of the surrounding area. It’s located on the outskirts of the town where I grew up, and it’s a spot that holds a lot of memories for me.”
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
Describe a place in your hometown that is special to you. You should say: -what this place is -where it is located -how often you visit it and explain why this place is special to you.
A place that is particularly special to me is a small hill located just outside my old high school. This hill, though modest in size, offers an incredible view of the surrounding area. It’s located on the outskirts of the town where I grew up, and it’s a spot that holds a lot of memories for me.
I used to visit this hill frequently after my classes or on weekends. Even now, I make it a point to stop by when I’m back in town. I’d say I visit a few times a year, and each time, it feels like visiting an old friend.
What makes this hill so special to me is the sense of peace and reflection it offers. During my high school years, it was my go-to place whenever I needed to clear my head or take a break from studying. I would sit at the top. There’s an amazing view that stretches out over the town and allows you to catch the sunset. The colours of the sunset from that vantage point are breathtaking! It’s a sight that never fails to calm my mind and lift my spirits.
Beyond its beauty, the hill has a deep personal significance. It was a place where I would often go with friends after school. We would sit and talk about our dreams, our fears and our plans for the future. Those conversations, which often occured against the backdrop of the setting sun, are some of my most cherished memories.
Even now, this simple hill is a reminder of a simpler time and of the friendships and dreams I had when I was younger.
This week, you will train to answer Part 1 questions about the topic of ‘neighbours’. As always, this sample response was scripted by an active IELTS examiner.
Step 1: Tune in to this week’s podcast episode (audio and video version available below).
Part 1 questions
Where are you from? Do you live in a big city or a small town? Do you live in a quiet or busy area? Let’s talk about neighbours. Do you have any neighbours? Do you know your neighbours well? How long have you been neighbours with these people? Do you consider yourself a good neighbour?
🧑🎓Target language:
metropolis -a very large and densely populated city
“It’s a bustling metropolis known for its advanced technology, rich culture and vibrant lifestyle.”
Step 2: Listen to the sample a few times to get more familiar with the language.
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 live in a relatively busy area of Tokyo. It’s a commercial district with a lot of shops, restaurants and offices, which means there’s always a lot of activity and movement throughout the day.”
Step 5: It’s very important that you note any new language items or pronunciation points from this week’s lesson in your journal to help you chronicle your improvement.📝
Transcript
Where are you from?
I am originally from Tokyo, Japan. It’s a bustling metropolis known for its advanced technology, rich culture and vibrant lifestyle.
Do you live in a big city or a small town?
I currently live in a big city. Tokyo is one of the largest cities in the world, with a population of over 13 million people.
Do you live in a quiet or busy area?
I live in a relatively busy area of Tokyo. It’s a commercial district with a lot of shops, restaurants and offices, which means there’s always a lot of activity and movement throughout the day.
Let’s talk about neighbours. Do you have any neighbours?
Yes, I do have neighbours. Living in an apartment building means that I’m surrounded by several other residents on the same floor and throughout the building.
Do you know your neighbours well?
I wouldn’t say I know them very well, but we are on friendly terms. We exchange greetings regularly and occasionally have brief conversations when we meet in the common areas or elevator.
How long have you been neighbours with these people?
I’ve been living in my current apartment for about three years now, so I’ve been neighbours with most of these people for the same duration.
Do you consider yourself a good neighbour?
Yes, I believe I am a good neighbour. I make sure to be considerate of others by keeping noise levels down, maintaining a tidy living space, and being polite and respectful in my interactions. I think these small actions contribute to a positive living environment for everyone.
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 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.”
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 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.
