Describe a place and time you would revisit in your life if you could time travel. You should say: Where you would go What time period it is What you would do there And explain why you chose that particular place and time
If I had the chance to time travel, I would go back to my first year at university, which was about a decade ago. The university campus was located in a student-friendly city, and for me, that period was a perfect mix of excitement and freedom.
I would return to that time not to change anything, but to relive it with greater awareness and appreciation. Back then, everything felt so fast-paced — lectures, assignments, new friendships — and I didn’t always take the time to enjoy the moment. If I could revisit that time, I would sit in on my old classes and spend more time with the friends I’ve since lost touch with.
I think I’d also take more photos, journal more and worry less about grades. I’d also spend more time talking to my professors and possibly getting more directly involved in the research they were carrying out at that time.
I chose this time and place because it marked a turning point in my life. It was when I started becoming independent and shaping the path I’m on now. In many ways, going back wouldn’t just be a nostalgic trip — it would be a chance to reconnect with the foundation of who I’ve become.
Describe an unusual building you have seen. You should say: Where it is What it looks like Why it is unusual And explain how you felt when you saw it.
One of the most unusual buildings I’ve ever seen is the Burj Al Arab, located in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. I had the chance to see it up close during a short trip to Dubai a few years ago, and it truly left a lasting impression on me.
To describe it: The Burj Al Arab is famously shaped like the sail of a ship. It stands on its own artificial island that is connected to the mainland by a private bridge. The building is white and blue during the day. At night, it is illuminated with colourful lights. I have never been inside it, but I hear it is filled with extravagant gold decorations and massive aquariums.
What makes the Burj Al Arab unusual is not just its striking design, but also its reputation. It markets itself as a ‘seven-star hotel,’ which is far beyond the official hotel rating system. Everything about it is designed to be the absolute height of luxury — from a helicopter pad on the roof to a fleet of Rolls-Royce cars for guests.
When I first saw it, I was completely amazed. It felt like something from another world! Seeing the Burj Al Arab up close gave me a sense of awe, not only because of its sheer beauty but also because of the incredible imagination that brought it to life.
Can you describe your hometown? I’m originally from Mossoro. It’s a city in northeastern Brazil known for its warm climate and mix of urban life and natural beauty. The city plays an important role in Brazil’s oil and salt industries.
What do you like most about your hometown? What I love most is the weather and the friendly people. Mossoro is warm and sunny almost all year round, and the locals are very welcoming.
What age group is your hometown most suitable for? I’d say it’s great for both families and retired people. The city has good schools, parks and healthcare facilities. It also has a stable but growing economy, so it is a good option for anyone looking for a secure and predictable lifestyle.
Has your hometown changed a lot over the years? Yes, quite a bit. Mossoro has expanded a lot in terms of infrastructure and economy. It has become a major center for oil production, and new businesses and universities have brought more people to the city.
Do you think young people prefer living in big cities or small towns? I think young people mostly prefer big cities because of the job opportunities, entertainment and fast-paced lifestyle. Mid-sized cities like Mossoro are likely too boring for young people.
What facilities are available for young people in your hometown? There are plenty of shopping malls and sports facilities, and there are beaches that are nearby. Mossoro also has a strong cultural scene, with music festivals and museums.
Would you like to continue living in your hometown in the future? I love my hometown, but as a younger person I’d probably move to a bigger city for career opportunities and new experiences. That being said, I wouldn’t mind coming back later in life to enjoy the peaceful environment.
-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.
