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

Category: Places/Travel

  • Lesson 126: Your hometown and drinks🍵

    This week, you will train to speak about the topic of ‘drinks’.

    Step 1: Listen to the full sample response from start to finish.

    Step 2: Now listen to this week’s IELTSCast episode and practise the sample ‘repeat after me’ sentences from the model.

    Step 3: Complete the full video lesson here:

    Step 4: Read through the transcript below and note all new language in your notebook. Any questions can be posted here as a comment.

    Step 5: If you have been added to a Whatsapp group, submit this week’s speech exercises to your instructor.

    Chat on WhatsApp

    Transcript

    Where you are from?

    I am originally from a picturesque town in the heart of England called Stratford-upon-Avon.

    Do you work or study?

    Currently, I am pursuing my studies. I am enrolled in a postgraduate programme in Environmental Science at a local university.

    What is your hometown like?

    Stratford-upon-Avon is a charming town with a rich history. It’s renowned as the birthplace of William Shakespeare and is known for its well preserved Tudor-style architecture. The town is nestled along the tranquil banks of the River Avon, and its cobblestone streets are lined with quaint shops and theaters.

    Do you enjoy living in your hometown?

    I absolutely adore living in my hometown. The blend of history, culture and the welcoming community makes it a delightful place to call home.

    How has your hometown changed over the years?

    Over the years, Stratford-upon-Avon has seen some positive changes. There has been an effort to preserve and restore historic buildings, which has boosted tourism. Additionally, the town has embraced more eco-friendly initiatives, promoting green spaces and sustainability.

    What kind of accommodation do most people in your hometown live in?

    The majority of residents in Stratford-upon-Avon live in traditional houses, often Tudor-style or Georgian architecture. However, there are also modern apartments and townhouses available.

    Let’s talk about drinks. What is your favourite drink?

    My favourite drink without a doubt is a well-brewed cup of Earl Grey tea. I take it with milk and find it to be soothing and refreshing.

    Did you prefer different drinks as a child?

    As a child, my preferences were quite different. I used to enjoy fruit juices and fizzy drinks, particularly orange juice and lemonade.

    Do you think it is important to drink lots of water?

    Yes, I firmly believe that staying hydrated is crucial for overall health. Water is essential for bodily functions, and it helps to maintain proper digestion, skin health and mental clarity.

  • Lesson 113: An unusual meal you had🍖

    This week, you will be talking about food. This lesson uses the following Part 2 cue card:

    Talk about an unusual meal you had. You should say
    – when you had it
    – where you had it
    – what kind of meal it was
    – and explain why it was unusual.

    Step 1: Listen to the full sample to familiarise yourself with the language.

    Step 2: Watch this week’s podcast lesson and repeat a few of the sentences from the model.

    Step 3: Now try the full exercise using the below member’s-only video.

    Step 4: Read through the included transcript of this week’s sample (below).

    Step 5: Post your five weekly speech samples to your Whatsapp group and follow the advice of your instructor.

    Transcript

    Talk about an unusual meal you had. You should say
    – when you had it
    – where you had it
    – what kind of meal it was
    – and explain why it was unusual.

    I’d like to talk about a rather extraordinary meal I had during my trip to Japan last year. It was an unforgettable experience that took place in a traditional Japanese inn located in the quaint town of Takayama.

    The meal itself was a traditional Kaiseki dinner, which is a multi-course dining experience renowned for its artistic presentation and use of seasonal ingredients. The meal began with a series of beautifully arranged appetisers, which included some familiar items like sashimi and tempura. But as the courses progressed, I was introduced to a variety of uncommon dishes. One of the most peculiar delicacies was Hoba Miso, a regional specialty where miso paste, wild mushrooms, and vegetables were cooked over a magnolia leaf. The earthy aroma and rich flavours were unlike anything I had tasted before.

    Furthermore, the chef proudly served a platter which I believe was called Seki-saba, a local delicacy of fermented mackerel. While its intense pungent smell might have deterred some, I decided to embrace the experience fully. To my surprise, the taste was surprisingly complex and utterly delightful.

    Another dish that added to the uniqueness of the meal was Kuro-udon, which was black udon noodles made with bamboo charcoal. The dramatic colour contrast against the traditional white tableware was visually striking and added an artistic element to the dining experience.

    What truly made this meal unusual was the combination of the serene surroundings, the artistic presentation, and the rare ingredients. I unfortunately don’t think I’ll have an experience like this again anytime soon. Trying these unfamiliar and rare dishes opened my eyes to the vast diversity of Japanese cuisine and its strong connection to regional traditions and culture.

  • Lesson 98: A recent development in your city🏙️

    This week, you will shadow the below monologue. This is an exercise that helps you prepare for Part 2 of the exam. Here is the cue card that will be used in the exercise:

    Describe a recent development in your city.
    You should say:
    -what it is
    -where it is located
    -how long it took to complete
    -and explain how you feel about it

    Step 1: Listen to the full sample.

    Step 2: The free IELTSCast episode for this week is temporarily unavailable.

    Step 3: Complete the full speech shadowing exercise below.

    Step 4: Read through the below transcript and note areas you need to review in the coming weeks.

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

    Chat on WhatsApp

    Transcript

    Describe a recent development in your city.
    You should say:
    -what it is
    -where it is located
    -how long it took to complete
    -and explain how you feel about it

    One recent development in my city that I would like to discuss is the construction of a new public transportation system known as ‘The Metro’. It is a much needed addition to our city’s infrastructure, providing a safe, fast, and convenient mode of transportation to commuters. The Metro is located in the heart of the city, with stations spread across major areas, and it runs on electricity, making it an environmentally friendly option.

    The construction of The Metro was a massive undertaking that took over four years to complete. The government had to acquire land, lay tracks, build stations, and install state-of-the-art equipment while ensuring minimal disruption to the existing infrastructure. Despite the many challenges faced during the construction, the end result has been worth it.

    Personally, I feel thrilled about this development. The Metro has made commuting a hassle-free experience for me and many others in the city. It has not only reduced travel time but has also provided a much needed relief from the exhausting and stressful traffic conditions that we had to endure earlier. Additionally, The Metro has reduced air pollution, making our city a healthier place to live in.

    In conclusion, the development of The Metro in my city is a positive change that has benefited many. It is a perfect example of how investing in public infrastructure can enhance the quality of life for citizens. I hope that the government will continue to invest in such developments in the future, making our city an even better place to live in.

  • Lesson 93: Learning a new language🀄

    This lesson looks at a Part 3 IELTS Speaking sample on the topic of ‘languages’.

    Step 1: Listen to the full model.

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

    Step 3: Work through the full exercise below.

    Step 4: Read through the below transcript and make special note of what you learned this week. Plan to review these areas in the next few weeks.

    Step 5: Submit your speech samples to your Whatsapp instructor in a timely manner and wait for feedback.

    Chat on WhatsApp

    Transcript

    Why do people choose to learn a new language?

    There are various reasons why people choose to learn a new language. Language learning can be an effective way to connect with other cultures and broaden one’s understanding of the world. Additionally, it has been shown that learning a new language can also have cognitive benefits, such as improving memory and brain function. Thus, the benefits of learning a new language can be both practical and personal, which makes it a popular choice among individuals.

    What problems are often associated with learning a new language?

    Learning a new language can be a challenging and complex process, and several problems are commonly associated with it. For instance, learners may struggle with acquiring the necessary vocabulary and grammar, which are fundamental building blocks for communication. Additionally, pronunciation and intonation can be problematic, especially if learners are not exposed to native speakers or have limited practice opportunities. Cultural differences and misunderstandings can also pose a challenge to learners who may find it difficult to communicate effectively.

    Why do you think learning a new language is easier for some people but harder for others?

    Well, several factors can influence how easy or difficult it is for someone to learn a new language. For example, age has been shown to be a significant factor, as younger learners tend to acquire languages more quickly and easily than older learners. Prior language learning experience can also play a role, as individuals who have learned multiple languages may be more comfortable with the learning process and have a better understanding of language structures. Additionally, learners who are exposed to the language in immersive settings or have access to native speakers may have an advantage over those who primarily learn in a classroom or textbook setting.

    Do you think people visiting a country as tourists should learn its language?

    While not essential, learning even basic phrases can enhance the tourist experience, facilitate communication, and demonstrate respect for the local culture. Moreover, being able to communicate in the local language can make travel easier and more enjoyable, and it allows tourists to navigate public transportation, order food, and ask for directions more effectively. In summary, while tourists do not need to be fluent in the local language, making an effort to learn at least some basic phrases can have numerous benefits and is a worthwhile endeavour for anyone travelling abroad.

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

  • Lesson 92: A person from another culture🌎

    This week, we’re looking at a common IELTS Speaking topic: culture.

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

    Step 2: Tune in to this week’s IELTSCast episode to practise a few sentences from the model.

    Step 3: Work through the full exercise below.

    Step 4: Read through the below transcript and note the new language you learned this week.

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

    Chat on WhatsApp

    Transcript

    Talk about a person you know from another culture, such as a friend or a teacher. You should say
    -who the person is
    -how you met him/her
    -where you met
    -and explain what you learnt about their cultural background

    I would like to talk about my friend Hiro, who is from Japan. I met Hiro in my first year of university, where we both took a course on international relations. We were assigned to work on a group project together, and that’s how we became friends.

    We met at a coffee shop near campus, where we discussed the project and got to know each other. As we worked on the project, we learned a lot about each other’s culture. Hiro shared many interesting things about Japan with me, and he opened my eyes to traditions from his homeland.

    One of the things I learned from Hiro is the importance of respect in Japanese culture. He explained how respect is a fundamental value in all aspects of life in Japan, from family and relationships to business and politics. Hiro also told me about the tradition of bowing as a sign of respect, which is something I found really interesting.

    Another thing I learned from Hiro is the importance of food in Japanese culture. He introduced me to some delicious Japanese dishes and explained the significance of certain ingredients and cooking techniques. I also learned about the traditional Japanese tea ceremony, which I found fascinating.

    Overall, I feel very fortunate to have met Hiro and to have learned so much about Japanese culture from him. It has given me a greater appreciation for the diversity of cultures in the world, and I feel more open-minded and eager to learn about other cultures.

  • Lesson 90: Communicating across cultures😀

    Candidates often ask, “Is IELTS Speaking difficult?” The answer is “NO!” so long as you prepare thoroughly for it. Doing this requires you familiarise yourself with commonly seen topics, such as today’s: culture!

    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 identify the language that is new or challenging for you. Make sure to review this language again in the coming weeks.

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

    Chat on WhatsApp

    Transcript

    Is it easy to communicate with people from another culture?

    No. Communicating with people from another culture can be challenging, but it is not impossible. I guess the key precursor to this is that both speakers share a want to achieve successful communication. If this is a shared goal, I think communication between cultures is much more easily attained.

    What difficulties do we face when we talk to a person from another culture?

    There are several difficulties that people face when communicating with someone from a different cultural background, including language barriers and differences in customs. Certain gestures or wording can be endearing in one culture and offensive in another, for example.

    Is language barrier the main problem or are there other difficulties?

    The language barrier is a significant challenge in cross-cultural communication but it is not the only difficulty, and I wouldn’t necessarily say it is the “main” difficulty. I already mentioned differences in customs, but I would add that contrasting values or social norms can also make it challenging for people to understand each other’s perspectives.

    Do you think if there were just one language in the world, people from different cultural backgrounds could communicate more easily?

    Having just one language in the world could make cross-cultural communication easier, but it would not solve all the difficulties that arise. Cultural differences could still create misunderstandings and difficulties in communication. So, in the event there were just one language in the world, I would presume healthy communication would still need people to be open-minded, respectful of others’ cultures, and willing to learn and understand others’ perspectives.

  • Lesson 89: An inexpensive outing🚵

    We’re talking about ‘an inexpensive outing’ this week. Can you remember a time when you did something inexpensively?

    Step 1: Listen to the full sample.

    Step 2: This week’s IELTSCast episode is unavailable. It will be back up soon.

    Step 3: Engage the full exercise.

    Step 4: Read through this week’s transcript.

    Step 5: Complete your speech exercises with your Whatsapp instructor.

    Chat on WhatsApp

    Transcript

    Describe a day out that didn’t cost much. You should say
    -where you went
    -what you did
    -what you spent money on
    -and explain whether you enjoyed the day out and why

    I recently had a day out that was both enjoyable and affordable. I went to a nearby park with a few of my friends. We all brought our own food and drinks and had a picnic on the grassy lawn. We spent the whole day playing games, like frisbee and soccer, and just enjoying each other’s company. The only money we spent was on parking, which came to about $5.

    I really loved this day for a number of reasons. Firstly, it was a beautiful day and being surrounded by nature was really peaceful and calming. Secondly, I got to spend quality time with my friends and we had so much fun playing games and just chatting. It was such a great reminder that sometimes the simplest things in life can bring the most happiness.

    Another reason I enjoyed this day out was because it was so affordable. I love going out and trying new things, but often these activities can be quite expensive. This day out showed me that you don’t have to spend a lot of money to have a great time. All you need is good company and a positive attitude, and you can have an enjoyable day no matter where you are or what you’re doing.

    Overall, this day out was a really memorable experience for me, and I would definitely do it again. It was a great reminder that sometimes the best things in life are the ones that don’t cost much.

  • Lesson 79: Your workplace layout, your routine and dreams📅

    This week examines several common Part 1 topics, including your workplace and your routine. The discussion evolves to also include the topic of ‘dreams’.

    Step 1: Listen to this week’s lesson.

    Part 1 Questions
    Do you work or study?
    How would you describe the layout of your workplace?
    What do you do every day after you get up?
    Do you normally go to bed early?
    Is your daily routine going to change in the future?
    Do you usually remember your dreams after you get up?
    🧑‍🎓Target language:

    double (verb)
    Something that is used in or play another thing.
    “The CEO works alone from the room that doubles as our company’s main meeting room.”

    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!🗣️📲
    “My workplace is made up of several large office rooms with three or four workers in each room. Everyone has a desk and each office usually has a small table with an electric kettle for coffee and tea.”
    Chat on WhatsApp

    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?

    I work in software development at a large organisation in this city.

    How would you describe the layout of your workplace?

    My workplace is made up of several large office rooms with three or four workers in each room. Everyone has a desk and each office usually has a small table with an electric kettle for coffee and tea. We’re a small organisation, so the CEO works alone from the room that doubles as our company’s main meeting room. It has a large table and a whiteboard.

    What do you do every day after you get up?

    The first thing I do is make a thermos of coffee while checking news headlines on my phone. Then I shower and get ready for work. I don’t usually eat breakfast at home because there is a small and inexpensive cafe next to our building.

    Do you normally go to bed early?

    Yes, I’m almost always in bed by shortly after 9. I have a bad habit of watching media on my phone before bed, which I’ve read can disturb sleep patterns, but I’m nevertheless completely dead to the world by about 10 o’clock.

    Is your daily routine going to change in the future?

    No, barring some unforeseen change to my employment, I don’t think it will.

    Do you usually remember your dreams after you get up?

    No I don’t, and I don’t particularly want to remember them. I find switching from one reality to another disorienting. In fact, I can’t remember the last time I had a dream I could recall!

  • Lesson 70: A favourite area in your home🏡

    This week focuses on a very common topic in IELTS: your home! (For more training about common topics like this, this English shadowing website lets you view lessons by category. Click here to try it out!)

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

    Part 1 Questions

    Where are you from?
    Describe the house or apartment you are living in now.
    Do you have a favourite room?
    Is there anything you would change about your home?
    Let’s talk about your hometown. Are there any old buildings in your hometown?
    Can you describe any old buildings in your hometown?
    🧑‍🎓Target language:

    near and dear to my heart
    -something you treasure and consider very important

    “It also houses my collection of vinyl records which is near and dear to my heart.”

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

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

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

    Post yourself saying this into your Whatsapp group!🗣️📲

    “I live in a relatively small flat. It has two bedrooms, a bath, a living area and a kitchen. There is a park in front of the building, so I get to enjoy the view of trees and flowers from the window.”
    Chat on WhatsApp

    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 a city two hours away from here, but for the last 20 years I have called this city home.

    Describe the house or apartment you are living in now.

    I live in a relatively small flat. It has two bedrooms, a bath, a living area and a kitchen. There is a park in front of the building, so I get to enjoy the view of trees and flowers from the window.

    Do you have a favourite room?

    I would say the second bedroom is my favourite because that is where my computer is and where I play video games, listen to music – it is where I go to unwind. It also houses my collection of vinyl records which is near and dear to my heart.

    Is there anything you would change about your home?

    I do enjoy my view but I have always wanted a house along the sea, so I would probably change the location of my home, if anything. Fortunately, the sea is only a few minutes away from my flat, so I’ve managed to make do.

    Let’s talk about your hometown. Are there any old buildings in your hometown?

    There are quite a few actually, and they are recognised by UNESCO as having historical significance. Some of these buildings date back to Roman times. I guess you could say my hometown is an open museum and tourists from all over the world flock to the city to see its sites.

    Can you describe any old buildings in your hometown?

    Well, the famous walls of the city are some of the oldest structures where I live. There used to be seven kilometers of stone wall, but now only four remain. Soldiers would watch from the fortresses to warn of any invaders coming from either land or sea. Nowadays, locals and tourists visit the walls to see the site but also to enjoy breathtaking views of the city and the sea below.

    Thank you.

  • Lesson 69: New places and travel trends🚆

    This week, you will train to speak about new places and the subject of ‘travel’. Use the shadow technique in the below exercises to practise speaking about these topics.

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

    Part 3 Questions

    What part of the festival did you most enjoy?
    What is another new place you would like to visit?
    Is there anything that would discourage you from visiting a new place?
    Do people travel differently now compared to the past?
    🧑‍🎓Target language:

    chum around
    -hang out with; do friendly things with

    “We chum around together regularly, and yet I never grow tired of her company.”

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

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

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

    Post yourself saying this into your Whatsapp group!🗣️📲

    “I liked the foods and the relaxed atmosphere of the festival, but I think what I enjoyed most of all was being able to experience it with my friend. We chum around together regularly, and yet I never grow tired of her company. At the festival, we shared a few good laughs and talked about the foods that were on offer. We also reminisced about old times.”
    Chat on WhatsApp

    Step 5: It’s very important that you note any new language items or pronunciation points from this week’s lesson in your journal to help you chronicle your improvement.📝

    Transcript

    We’ve been talking about visiting a new place, and I would like to ask you a few more questions about this topic. What part of the festival did you most enjoy?

    I liked the foods and the relaxed atmosphere of the festival, but I think what I enjoyed most of all was being able to experience it with my friend. We chum around together regularly, and yet I never grow tired of her company. At the festival, we shared a few good laughs and talked about the foods that were on offer. We also reminisced about old times.

    What is another new place you would like to visit?

    There are many new places I would like to visit. I suppose I would most like to see old historical sites in the UK, such as Hadrian’s Wall or Stonehenge. We have ancient sites like these in Vietnam too, but the past few years I have been especially interested in learning about British history and culture, and I’d really appreciate the opportunity to see such historic places first hand.

    Is there anything that would discourage you from visiting a new place?

    I suppose if I read online reviews that questioned the safety of an area…or its accessibility I might think twice about going. I’m pretty adventurous, but I would never sacrifice my sense of security for a new experience. Some things are just not worth the risk.

    I’m also not interested in visiting places that are known for being excessively pricey. I don’t feel that expensive travel plans necessarily mean you’re going to have a more rewarding trip. In fact, some of my greatest memories are from times when I travelled on a shoestring and had to eat locally, try to interact in a foreign language, and walk instead of taking a taxi.

    Do people travel differently now compared to the past?

    Yes, there are many differences. International travel infrastructure has spread to even the most remote corners of the planet, and this means more people are travelling and they are travelling further than ever before. Airports have grown to phenomenal sizes too, and with this has come ‘duty free’ commercial culture, where people associate international travel with the opportunity to pick up goods that aren’t taxed. These characteristics are a relatively recent phenomenon and not part of travel experiences of the past.

    Thank you.