Describe a technology or gadget that you find fascinating. You should say: what the technology or gadget is how you first learned about it what you use it for and explain why you find it fascinating.
One piece of technology that I find absolutely fascinating is the smartwatch. Specifically, I use an Apple Watch, but I believe most smartwatches these days offer similar features.
I first learned about smartwatches a few years ago when a friend of mine showed me his new watch during a coffee meetup. I remember being amazed at how he was able to receive messages, track his steps, and even monitor his heart rate—all from his wrist.
I primarily use my smartwatch to keep track of my daily fitness goals. It records how many steps I take, how many calories I burn, and it even reminds me to stand up and move around if I’ve been sitting for too long. Additionally, I use it to quickly check notifications without having to constantly reach for my phone.
What I find most fascinating about this gadget is how it seamlessly combines health, communication and convenience into one compact device. The fact that it can even detect if I’ve fallen or measure my blood oxygen levels is truly remarkable. I believe wearable technology like this will play an increasingly important role in how we manage our health in the future.
This week we’re looking at Part 3 questions that extend upon last week’s cue card on the topic of online videos
Step 1: Tune in to this week’s lesson. (Audio and video version below.)
Part 3 questions
What kinds of videos are popular in your country? Why do you think videos are becoming increasingly popular nowadays? What types of videos do you personally like to watch? How has the rise of online work impacted people’s lives? In your opinion, are people collaborating more online or offline these days? Do you think people worldwide should conduct meetings or collaborations online only?
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 Vietnam, comedy sketches, especially those portraying everyday life, tend to go viral on social media. Educational content, like language tutorials or cooking videos, also garners significant attention.
What kinds of videos are popular in your country? In Vietnam, comedy sketches, especially those portraying everyday life, tend to go viral on social media. Educational content, like language tutorials or cooking videos, also garners significant attention.
Why do you think videos are becoming increasingly popular nowadays? Videos have become a dominant form of content because they are engaging and accessible. With widespread smartphone usage and affordable internet, people can easily watch videos anytime and anywhere. Videos also combine visuals, sound and storytelling, which I feel makes them entertaining.
What types of videos do you personally like to watch? I enjoy watching a mix of educational and entertaining videos. Since I’m studying English, I often watch tutorials on grammar topics and pronunciation. For leisure, I gravitate toward travel vlogs, particularly those showcasing western Europe, which is a region I would like to visit.
How has the rise of online work impacted people’s lives? The shift to online work has created more job opportunities for individuals in rural areas. It has also allowed people to work more flexibly and reduce their commute. However, it has also reduced face-to-face interaction and has increasingly isolated people.
In your opinion, are people collaborating more online or offline these days? I think online collaboration has become more common in recent years, especially with advancements in technology and the impact of the pandemic. However, in my country, offline collaboration remains significant, especially in manufacturing industries. I think this is because these industries produce a physical product and thus require people to be physically present at the workplace.
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!🗣️📲
About a year ago, I had a flat tyre while driving on a quiet road, and I realised I didn’t know how to change it. Luckily, I had my phone with me, so I searched for a tutorial online. I found a clear, step-by-step guide explaining how to change a tyre.
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 video you watched online that you learned something from. You should say
– when you watched it – what the video was about – what you learned from it and explain how you felt after watching the video.
About a year ago, I had a flat tyre while driving on a quiet road, and I realised I didn’t know how to change it. Luckily, I had my phone with me, so I searched for a tutorial online. I found a clear, step-by-step guide explaining how to change a tyre.
The video was hosted by a mechanic, and he started the video with an explanation of what tools were needed, such as the spare tyre, a jack and a lug wrench. He then demonstrated how to safely position the jack under the car, loosen the lug nuts, and remove the damaged tyre. The presenter also emphasised safety tips, like ensuring the car was on a flat surface and using hazard lights to alert other drivers.
From this video, I learned how to change a tyre from start to finish. I discovered the importance of loosening the lug nuts before lifting the car and how to tighten them in a crisscross pattern to ensure the new tyre was securely attached.
This video was incredibly practical, and it gave me a sense of confidence and preparedness for future situations. It’s a very basic skill that I’m glad I learned, and I now make sure to check my car’s tools regularly to be ready for any emergencies.
This week we look at questions from Part 3 that follow-up on last week’s cue card. The topic is: the future of the internet.
Step 1: Tune in to this week’s lesson. (Audio and video version below.)
This week’s Part 3 questions:
How has the internet changed the way people access information? Do you think people rely too much on websites for information nowadays? What are the advantages of using websites compared to traditional sources like books or newspapers? Are there any disadvantages to getting information from websites? How do you think websites will evolve in the future? Do you think artificial intelligence will have a big impact on how websites are designed and used?
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 the past, people had to rely on physical resources such as books and libraries. Nowadays, with just a few clicks, we can access a vast array of data on virtually any topic. Additionally, the internet offers multimedia options—videos, infographics, podcasts—which cater to various learning styles.
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
How has the internet changed the way people access information? In the past, people had to rely on physical resources such as books and libraries. Nowadays, with just a few clicks, we can access a vast array of data on virtually any topic. Additionally, the internet offers multimedia options—videos, infographics, podcasts—which cater to various learning styles.
Do you think people rely too much on websites for information nowadays? Yes, to an extent. While it’s convenient and time-efficient, people often skim articles or rely on unverified sources, which can lead to misinformation. However, it’s also important to acknowledge the positive side: the internet provides a level of accessibility to knowledge that was previously unimaginable.
What are the advantages of using websites compared to traditional sources like books or newspapers? Firstly, websites provide real-time updates, whereas printed books or newspapers might take days or months to be published. Secondly, websites are searchable, making it far easier to locate specific information in seconds. And finallly, websites often provide interactive content that can enrich the learning experience far beyond what traditional media can offer.
Are there any disadvantages to getting information from websites? As I mentioned before, one major disadvantage of obtaining information from websites is the prevalence of misinformation. Another issue is the distraction factor, as websites often contain ads and other stimuli that can interfere with focused reading.
How do you think websites will evolve in the future? I believe websites will become even more personalised and intuitive in the future. As artificial intelligence continues to advance, websites will likely offer highly customised experiences, predicting what information a user needs before they even ask for it.
Do you think artificial intelligence will have a big impact on how websites are designed and used? I feel artificial intelligence is already having a profound impact on web design and usage, and this trend will only intensify. In the future, I think we’ll see AI-driven websites that can autonomously update content, optimise their own design and have increasingly sophisticated interactions with users.
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!🗣️📲 One website that I frequently visit is Coursera.com. It’s an online learning platform that offers a wide range of courses across various disciplines. I primarily use Coursera for continuing my education. It offers a rich collection of courses that are both theoretical and practical, covering topics like machine learning, artificial intelligence and statistical analysis.
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 website that you regularly visit. You should say: What the website is What you use it for Why you like it And explain how it benefits you.
One website that I frequently visit is Coursera.com. It’s an online learning platform that offers a wide range of courses across various disciplines.
I primarily use Coursera for continuing my education. It offers a rich collection of courses that are both theoretical and practical, covering topics like machine learning, artificial intelligence and statistical analysis. The interactive learning approach, including hands-on projects and quizzes, has been instrumental in enhancing my knowledge.
What I appreciate most about this website is its flexibility. Being able to learn at my own pace is incredibly convenient. Additionally, the platform often provides certificates upon completion, which helps me build a credible portfolio. This is a real advantage in today’s competitive job market.
Coursera has benefited me immensely, and it was key to my career transition into data science. It has broadened my knowledge base, introduced me to real-world applications and improved my confidence in handling complex techniques. Moreover, the global network of learners allows me to collaborate with and learn from others who share similar interests. It’s a website that I would highly recommend.
This week’s IELTS Part 3 questions extend upon last week’s cue card. In both cases, the topic revolves around working as part of a team.
Step 1: Tune in to this week’s podcast episode (audio and video version below).
Part 3 Questions What are the advantages and disadvantages of working in a team? How do you think technology has impacted teamwork in recent years? What are some common challenges people face when working in a team? How can conflicts within a team be effectively resolved? Have you ever learned something valuable about yourself through working with others?
🧑🎓Target language:
seamlessly(adv.) -with no spaces between one part and the next
“With the advent of digital collaboration tools like video conferencing, teams can now work together seamlessly regardless of geographical location.”
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!🗣️📲
“One of the most significant advantages is the diversity of perspectives that different team members bring. Additionally, teamwork allows for the distribution of tasks, which can lead to greater productivity.”
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 are the advantages and disadvantages of working in a team?
One of the most significant advantages is the diversity of perspectives that different team members bring. Additionally, teamwork allows for the distribution of tasks, which can lead to greater productivity.
However, there are also disadvantages to teamwork such as the potential for conflict. Another disadvantage is that some individuals may contribute less and rely on others to carry the workload.
How do you think technology has impacted teamwork in recent years?
Technology has had a profound impact on teamwork, particularly in the last decade. With the advent of digital collaboration tools like video conferencing, teams can now work together seamlessly regardless of geographical location. This has enabled the rise of remote teams and allowed organisations to tap into talent pools from around the world.
What are some common challenges people face when working in a team?
One of the most common challenges in teamwork is communication. Miscommunication or lack of communication can lead to confusion, mistakes and a lack of cohesion among the team members. Another challenge is the potential for personality clashes. In any team, there are likely to be individuals with differing temperaments or working styles, which can create tension.
How can conflicts within a team be effectively resolved?
Effective conflict resolution within a team often starts with open communication. This can be facilitated by having regular team meetings where everyone has the opportunity to voice their thoughts.
Another key strategy is to focus on the issue rather than the individuals involved. In some cases, involving a neutral third party, such as a team leader or mediator, can help to facilitate the resolution process. This can help team members feel heard and valued and encourage them to work together harmoniously.
Have you ever learned something valuable about yourself through working with others?
Absolutely. One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned through working with others is the importance of adaptability. In a team setting, circumstances can change rapidly. I’ve come to realise that being flexible and open to change is crucial not only for the success of the project but also for personal growth.
This week, you will train to speak about one of the most common topics in IELTS Speaking: routines! This sample was scripted by a practicing examiner and it uses real questions that were reportedly seen this year (2024) on a real IELTS exam.
Part 3 questions
How can a good morning routine influence the rest of the day? What are some common components of a healthy morning routine? How can a healthy routine contribute to better mental health? How have electronic devices impacted people’s mental health? Why is it difficult for some people to establish healthy routines?
🧑🎓Target language:
mixed bag -something that is both positive and negative
“I would say the impact of electronic devices is a mixed bag.”
Step 1: Tune in to this week’s podcast episode (audio and video version available below).
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 think a good morning routine sets a positive tone for the day. When an individual begins the day with healthy activities, it enhances productivity, reduces stress and improves a person’s overall mood. For example, engaging in activities such as exercise and meditation, and being sure to also eat a nutritious breakfast, can boost energy levels and mental clarity. When you feel great and are thinking clearly, the rest of your day is much more likely to be successful.”
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 routines and I would like to ask you a few more questions about this topic. How can a good morning routine influence the rest of the day?
I think a good morning routine sets a positive tone for the day. When an individual begins the day with healthy activities, it enhances productivity, reduces stress and improves a person’s overall mood. For example, engaging in activities such as exercise and meditation, and being sure to also eat a nutritious breakfast, can boost energy levels and mental clarity. When you feel great and are thinking clearly, the rest of your day is much more likely to be successful.
What are some common components of a healthy morning routine?
Well, I already mentioned exercise, meditation and eating a healthy breakfast, but I feel the need to highlight these three items again as they are so critical to starting the day in a healthy way. Other components of a healthy morning routine might include planning the day’s tasks, reading or journaling. Doing these things can stimulate the mind and set clear goals for the day. I feel hydration and personal hygiene are also essential to kickstart the day on a positive note.
How can a healthy routine contribute to better mental health?
I believe it contributes to better mental health by providing a sense of structure. When you know exactly what you are going to do after you wake up, you have a sense of control and I think this reduces anxiousness and helps stabilise emotions. Also, regular physical activity releases endorphins, which are natural mood lifters. Consistent sleep patterns are crucial for cognitive function and emotional regulation, too. I’d say these are the main ways a healthy routine contributes to better mental health.
How have electronic devices impacted people’s mental health?
Electronic devices have had a profound impact on people’s mental health, both positively and negatively. On the positive side, devices provide access to information, social connections, and mental health resources, which can be supportive. However, excessive use of electronic devices, particularly social media, has been linked to increased feelings of anxiety, depression and loneliness. This often leads to stress and disrupted sleep patterns. So I guess I would say the impact of electronic devices is a mixed bag.
Why is it difficult for some people to establish healthy routines?
One primary obstacle is the lack of motivation or willpower. It’s hard to establish a healthy routine if you don’t really want one. Additionally, busy lifestyles and demanding schedules can make it difficult to allocate time for new habits. Existing unhealthy habits, such as poor sleep patterns or a sedentary lifestyle, can also be hard to break.
Thank you. This marks the end of the IELTS Speaking exam.
This week’s lesson continues the conversation that began with last week’s cue card. The topic of this Part 3 sample is ‘appliances and people’. Note how the candidate’s responses are longer and more developed in this section of the exam.
Step 1: Tune in to this week’s podcast episode (audio and video version available below).
Part 3 Questions
Can you name another home appliance that people commonly use? Do you think people nowadays accumulate unnecessary appliances in their homes? Do most people in your country prefer to shop for household appliances in markets or shopping malls? Are higher priced appliances always better quality than lower priced ones? How do you judge the quality of a household appliance? How long do you expect an appliance to last after you buy it?
🧑🎓Target language:
staple(noun) -a central part of something
“Another home appliance that people commonly use is the microwave oven. It has become a staple in most kitchens due to its convenience and its ability to save a person time.”
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!🗣️📲
“Another home appliance that people commonly use is the microwave oven. It has become a staple in most kitchens due to its convenience and its ability to save a person time. For example, it can quickly heat up food, defrost frozen items, and even cook simple meals.”
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 home appliances, and I would like to ask you a few more questions about this topic. Can you name another home appliance that people commonly use?
Another home appliance that people commonly use is the microwave oven. It has become a staple in most kitchens due to its convenience and its ability to save a person time. For example, it can quickly heat up food, defrost frozen items, and even cook simple meals.
Do you think people nowadays accumulate unnecessary appliances in their homes?
Yes, and I think this trend is primarily driven by aggressive marketing tactics that make people believe buying the latest technology will simplify their life. It also doesn’t help that it is so easy to buy things online nowadays. However, in reality, many of these gadgets end up being used infrequently, if at all, and this results in cluttered living spaces and wasted resources.
Do most people in your country prefer to shop for household appliances in markets or shopping malls?
In my country, the preference for shopping locations varies, but a significant number of people tend to favour shopping malls over traditional markets when buying household appliances. Shopping malls offer a wider selection of products and the convenience of modern facilities. Malls also offer the assurance of purchasing from reputable retailers. Plus they typically offer after-sales services. This level of assurance isn’t commonly found in traditional markets.
Are higher priced appliances always better quality than lower priced ones?
Not necessarily. While higher priced appliances often come with advanced features, they do not always deliver superior quality or performance. For example, several years ago I purchased my microwave from Carrefour, which is a budget superstore in my area. This microwave was not expensive, yet it remains highly reliable and functions just as well as pricier options. To my mind, it’s essential to look at online user reviews before you purchase. Doing this will help you judge whether a more expensive option is really worth it.
How do you judge the quality of a household appliance?
Judging the quality of a household appliance involves several factors. Firstly, as I mentioned, I want to know what others think, so I base a lot of my opinion on online reviews. Customer feedback can provide valuable insights into the durability and performance of the appliance. Secondly, I check whether the appliance’s specifications and features meet my specific needs. Lastly, I look at the warranty and the availability of after-sales service, as I want to have options should the appliance break after I buy it.
How long do you expect an appliance to last after you buy it?
The expected lifespan of an appliance can vary greatly. Generally, I would expect a well-made household appliance to last at least five years. Major appliances like refrigerators and washing machines should ideally last closer to a decade, if not longer. On the other hand, smaller or more technologically complex appliances might have a shorter lifespan. I wouldn’t expect to get more than about five years out of a blender, for example.
This week, you will train to speak about an appliance that you use every day in your home. This could be a washing machine, microwave, food processor or some other electric machine you use to carry out a household task. In the model, the candidate chooses to speak about a coffee maker.
Step 1: Tune in to this week’s podcast episode (audio and video version available below).
Part 2 Cue Card
Talk about an appliance that is used daily in your home. You should say -when you bought it -who in your home uses this appliance the most -how this appliance is useful to you and give some advice about this type of appliance
🧑🎓Target language:
frequenting(verb) -visiting often
“Its convenience saves us considerable time and money compared to frequenting coffee shops.”
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 going to talk about an appliance my family and I use every day in our home, and that’s our trusty coffee maker. We got it approximately two years ago when we moved into our current residence.”
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 an appliance that is used daily in your home. You should say -when you bought it -who in your home uses this appliance the most -how this appliance is useful to you and give some advice about this type of appliance
I’m going to talk about an appliance my family and I use every day in our home, and that’s our trusty coffee maker. We got it approximately two years ago when we moved into our current residence.
I live with my parents and out of all of us, I would say that I’m the primary user of this appliance. As an avid coffee drinker, I rely on it to kickstart my mornings and keep me energised throughout the day. My mother and father do use it from time to time, but they definitely don’t use it as much as I do.
Our coffee maker is useful because it greatly simplifies the process of making coffee. Before we got this appliance, I would have to manually boil the water and strain the coffee into a cup. With the coffee maker, all I have to do is add water, a paper filter and some coffee grinds and the coffee maker does the rest in about 10 minutes. Its convenience saves us considerable time and money compared to frequenting coffee shops.
For those considering purchasing a coffee maker, I would offer a few pieces of advice. Firstly, invest in a model that aligns with your preferences and lifestyle, whether it’s a basic drip machine or a more sophisticated espresso maker. Secondly, prioritise quality over price. Buying a durable coffee maker will save you from having to replace a cheap one every few years. And lastly, don’t underestimate the importance of regular cleaning to ensure optimal performance.
I have to say that our coffee maker is no longer just a household appliance. It’s a valuable tool that has enhanced our daily lives in more ways than one.
This week’s lesson examines the topic of ‘transportation’. These questions were taken from a recent IELTS exam and –as always– the suggested responses were written by a former IELTS Speaking exam at the band 9 level.
Step 1: Tune in to this week’s podcast episode (audio and video version available below).
Part 1 Questions
Do you work or study? Where are you from? What type of job do you have? Is it easy to find a job in your hometown? Let’s talk about transportation. What type of transportation did you use to get to your test centre today? Do you usually use this form of transportation? Are there any forms of transportation you prefer not to use?
🧑🎓Target language:
on the spot -without any delay
“They gave me the job on the spot!”
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 actually do both at the moment. I study business administration and am currently working at a small cafe near my apartment.”
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 actually do both at the moment. I study business administration and am currently working at a small cafe near my apartment.
Where are you from?
I’m from this city, London. I’m very much a proud Londoner, and to me London is a place that will always feel like home.
What type of job do you have?
My job is not very exciting. I wash dishes in the cafe I was mentioning. It’s really just a job to help fund my schooling.
Is it easy to find a job in your hometown?
I think it depends on what you’re looking for. Securing employment in London can be competitive in specialised fields, but other industries are desperately in need of workers. For example, I got my job at the cafe just by asking whether they were hiring. They gave me the job on the spot! So I think the time and effort required to find a job really is relevant to the type of work a person is pursuing.
Let’s talk about transportation. What type of transportation did you use to get to your test centre today?
Today, I used the subway to reach this test center. In London, we lovingly call it ‘The Tube’ and its known for its punctuality, cleanliness and extensive coverage of the city.
Do you usually use this form of transportation?
Yes, I frequently rely on the Tube for my daily commute. Its reliability and efficiency make it my preferred mode of transportation for navigating the city’s busy streets and reaching my destination in a timely manner.
Are there any forms of transportation you prefer not to use?
While I appreciate the convenience of most transportation options available in London, there are certain forms I tend to avoid, such as buses. During peak hours, the buses in London are way too crowded for comfort. I’m also not a fan of taxis. I just find them overpriced and not much faster than other transportation types. Those would be the two I’d most prefer not to use.