Category Archives: Technology

Lesson 137: Agriculture🥔

Leave a reply

This week’s lesson has us taking a look at the language needed to talk about ‘agriculture’.

Step 1: Let’s start by having a listen to this week’s model response:

Step 2: This week’s podcast episode gives a preview to the full speaking exercise and let’s you practise saying a few of the sentences. Listen here (sorry, no video episode this week):

Step 3: Are you ready to try the full ‘repeat after me’ exercise? Remember: there is a full script below that you can use for reference.

Step 4: Post any question or comment you have below and I’ll get back to you as soon as I am able.

Transcript:

Do you think the dishes people cook are influenced by the agriculture of their region?

Absolutely. The availability of certain crops and livestock shapes the culinary traditions of a place. For example, in regions where rice cultivation is prevalent, you’ll find a rich variety of rice-based dishes, and the same is true in regions where wheat is the more common grain.

How important do you think agriculture is in your country?

It’s definitely important in China. Agriculture not only provides sustenance to the vast population but also contributes significantly to the national economy. I would also say a lot of our cultural identity is closely tied to traditional farming practices and the cuisines these practices produce.

Can agriculture be improved by technology?

Yes, I believe it can. Technology can significantly enhance efficiency, yield and sustainability in agriculture. Modern irrigation systems and genetically modified crops are just a few examples of how technology can increase productivity. By integrating these innovations, agriculture can meet the demands of the world’s growing population.

Are there any negative impacts of using technology in agriculture?

One concern is the over-reliance on certain technologies, which may lead to environmental degradation. Additionally, the high cost of advanced equipment can create economic disparities among farmers. Striking a balance between technological progress and sustainable practices is crucial to mitigate these negative impacts.

How do you think technology in agriculture affects the environment?

The impact of technology on the environment in agriculture is a double-edged sword. On the one hand, precision farming and efficient resource management can minimise water and chemical usage. On the other hand, technologies that enhance the spraying of pesticides, for example, can cause harm to ecosystems. Striking a harmonious balance between technology and nature is thus essential to ensure a sustainable future.

Lesson 128: Talking about projects at work🗂️

Leave a reply

This lesson examines questions that were asked in Part 3 of a recent IELTS Speaking exam. It includes a very good exercise that will help you learn to speak about one of the most common topics in IELTS Speaking: work.

Step 1: Listen to this week’s full sample. If any of the vocabulary is new to you, consult the transcript below.

Step 2: Listen to this week’s podcast episode, which includes a helpful few ‘repeat after me’ sentences that you can train with.

Step 3: Complete the full exercise. This video includes prompts to help you repeat the language accurately.

Step 4: Critical to your progress as a speaker of English is your ability to include new vocabulary items in your day-to-day speaking. To support your efforts, reread the below transcript and write the new language items in your study journal.

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

Chat on WhatsApp

Transcript

How important is it for employees to take on challenging projects at work?

Taking on challenging projects at work is of paramount importance. It not only helps employees grow and develop professionally but also contributes significantly to the overall success of the organisation. Challenging projects provide employees with the opportunity to expand their skill set, learn new things and think creatively. In fact, the ability to handle challenging projects is often a key differentiator in one’s career progression, as it showcases a person’s problem solving skills, leadership potential and adaptability.

What skills are necessary to successfully handle challenging projects?

Handling challenging projects successfully demands a diverse set of skills. Firstly, problem solving skills are crucial. Employees should be able to analyse complex issues, identify potential solutions and make informed decisions. Additionally, effective communication and teamwork are essential for collaboration and sharing ideas within the team. I would also say that time management and organisational skills are necessary to ensure that tasks are completed on schedule. Those are the main skills that come to mind.

How do you think technology has changed the way people approach and complete work-related projects?

Technology has revolutionised the way people approach and complete work-related projects. It has streamlined processes, increased efficiency and expanded the possibilities of what can be achieved. For example, as we saw during COVID, digital tools made it possible for employees to collaborate seamlessly from different locations. Technology has thus accelerated the pace of work and made remote work more viable.

How should a person or team respond when a project doesn’t go as planned?

When a project doesn’t go as planned, it is essential to respond with a constructive approach. The first step should be to conduct a thorough post-mortem analysis to understand what went wrong and why. Identifying the root causes of the issues is crucial for preventing similar problems in the future. Communication within the team and with stakeholders is also key because this keeps everyone informed of the situation and the steps being taken to address it. One final but critical step is to maintain a positive and solution oriented mindset. Setbacks are inherent in most projects, and a resilient team that can learn from its mistakes is more likely to rebound quickly.

Lesson 119: Cybersecurity🛡️

Leave a reply

This week’s lesson looks at Part 3 questions on the theme of cybersecurity. The candidate is asked to share their opinions on the topic, and the conversation with the examiner evolves organically.

Step 1: Listen to the full model. The vocabulary used in this Part 3 demonstration is less common than usual, so remember to re-listen to this sample several times to get a true feeling for how much of the language you can understand.

Step 2: Listen to this week’s podcast episode and try the included sample exercise.

Step 3: Work your way through the full exercise. As mentioned, this week uses less common language, so be sure to repeat portions of the exercise and consult the transcript if you need support. All questions can be posted as a comment to this lesson, too.

Step 4: Read through the transcript again and make special note of all new language you have learned in this lesson. Remember that it is important to review your journal regularly to ensure you are retaining and including what you learn in your own day-to-day speaking.

Step 5: Post your speech samples to your Whatsapp group. Your instructor will provide you with feedback within 24 hours of your submission.

Chat on WhatsApp

Transcript

How do you think the use of electronic devices has changed the way people work compared to the past?

The use of electronic devices has undeniably revolutionized the way people work compared to the past. Previously, work was primarily centred around physical locations, such as offices and factories, where employees were essentially tethered to specific workstations. However, with the advent of electronic devices work has become increasingly flexible and decentralised. Individuals can now work remotely and access vast amounts of information within seconds. This level of convenience and efficiency was unimaginable in the past.

Are there any disadvantages to relying heavily on electronic devices for work-related tasks?

Yes, there are. One of the primary concerns is the potential for digital distractions. With constant notifications, emails and social media, employees may find it challenging to maintain focus and productivity. Furthermore, the overuse of electronic devices can lead to health issues, such as eye strain and sedentary behaviour, which may contribute to long-term health problems.

How has the advancement of technology influenced the types of jobs available in today’s workforce?

The advancement of technology has had a profound impact on the types of jobs available in today’s workforce. Robotics and artificial intelligence have led to the automation of routine tasks, which has resulted in the need for completely new jobs in fields like data analysis and cybersecurity.

Technology, for better or for worse, has also created the ‘gig’ economy, making freelance work and short-term contracts possible. This diversifying of the job market has required individuals continuously adapt and acquire new skills to remain competitive in the rapidly changing work environment.

In what ways can people ensure the security and privacy of their data when using electronic devices for important work?

There are several measures individuals can take to protect their data. Regularly updating software and applications is also critical, as updates often contain security patches that address vulnerabilities. Further, encrypting sensitive data and using secure connections can safeguard information from unauthorised access.

Are there any ethical concerns related to the use of electronic devices for work?

Indeed. For example, employers may use monitoring software to track employees’ activities. This of course raises questions about the extent to which such surveillance is ethical and respects employees’ privacy and personal space.

Additionally, issues related to data privacy and confidentiality arise when handling sensitive customer or client information.

A final ethical concern I can think of is the ‘digital divide,’ where some individuals have access to advanced electronic devices and the internet while others do not. As we were discussing earlier, so much of the workforce is now dependent on technology. Not having access to technology may mean some individuals do not have equitable access to job opportunities.

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

Lesson 118: An electronic device you used for important work🤳

Leave a reply

This week, we’re looking at a Part 2 cue card that requires you speak about a device you used for important work. Here is the cue card:

Describe a time when you used an electronic device for some important work. You should say
– what you did
– when you did it
– why you had to use your electronic device
– and explain how you felt about this experience.

Step 1: Listen to the full sample.

Step 2: Listen to this week’s podcast episode and work through the free sample exercise.

Step 3: Below is this week’s full exercise. Work through the exercise and remember to redo sections if the language is completely new or challenging.

Step 4: Included below is the full transcript for this lesson. Read through it and note language items that you found challenging. Remember to attempt to include these noted items in your own day-to-day speaking.

Step 5: You will be given five short speech exercises in your Whatsapp group. Submit your speech samples promptly and wait for feedback from your instructor.

Chat on WhatsApp

Transcript

Describe a time when you used an electronic device for some important work. You should say
– what you did
– when you did it
– why you had to use your electronic device
– and explain how you felt about this experience.

I’d like to talk about a time when I used my laptop for an important task. About six months ago, I had to prepare a crucial presentation for my workplace. I work as a marketing manager in a multinational company, and this presentation was a key component of a pitch we were making to a potential client.

I performed this task a day before the scheduled presentation. I remember it was a Sunday, and the presentation was to be held on Monday morning. I had known about the presentation for about a week in advance, but the busy nature of my job made it difficult to find time to work on the task.

The reason I had to use my laptop was primarily for gathering data and creating visual aids. I relied heavily on my laptop to research the client’s industry trends and their competitors’ strategies, and to glean statistical data that could support our proposal. Additionally, I used presentation software on the device to design slides that would be both informative and visually appealing.

Reflecting on this experience, I can say I felt a mixture of pressure, determination and gratitude. On one hand, I was aware of the significance of the presentation: it could potentially secure a lucrative deal for our company. On the other hand, the time constraint added an extra layer of stress that was honestly rather unpleasant. However, I embraced the challenge and saw it as an opportunity to showcase my skills and dedication. By the time I completed the presentation late into the night, I was not only proud of the outcome but also amazed at how much my device had helped to accelerate the task. I can’t imagine how long a task like this would take without the support of a laptop!

Thank you.

Lesson 117: Computers🖥️

4 Replies

This lesson examines a very common topic: computers. The model is structured around Part 1 questions that were recently seen on an actual IELTS Speaking exam.

Step 1: Listen to the model and note any new language you come across.

Step 2: Tune in to this week’s episode of IELTSCast and work through the free sample exercise.

Step 3: Below is this week’s full exercise. Remember that it can be helpful to redo the exercise (or portions of the exercise) repeatedly to help further refine your speaking. Any questions you have can be posted as a comment on this lesson.

Step 4: Read through the below transcript. It can be helpful to print lesson transcripts out for annotation purposes. Be sure to identify to yourself areas that are new or challenging so that you can work to include these items in your own day-to-day speaking.

Step 5: Your Whatsapp instructor will post five speaking exercises to your group. Post your daily speech sample and look for your personalised feedback.

Chat on WhatsApp

Transcript

Where do you live?

I currently reside in Frankfurt, which is located in Germany. It’s a bustling city known for its diverse multicultural community.

Do you work or are you a student?

I’m a dedicated student at the University of Frankfurt, pursuing a degree in computer science. This academic journey is a vital step towards realising my passion for innovation in the technology sector.

What is your favourite subject to study?

Among the subjects I’m studying, I have a particular fondness for economics. Its intricate analysis of market dynamics and its impact on society intrigue me. I’m constantly motivated to delve deeper into the complexities of supply and demand, and how economic policies shape our world.

You said that you are interested in technology, were you passionate about it from a young age?

Yes, indeed. Since my childhood, I’ve harboured an unwavering fascination for technology. From experimenting with simple gadgets to immersing myself in programming, my passion for technology has been an integral part of my life’s journey.

What do you prefer to use, a tablet or a computer, and why?

While both tablets and computers have their merits, I tend to gravitate towards computers. The robust processing power and versatile capabilities of a computer are indispensable for tasks such as software development and data analysis. Additionally, the ergonomic comfort of a full-sized keyboard and larger screen contribute to my productivity.

When did you start using computers?

My initiation into the world of computers began around the age of 10. It all started with basic operations and gradually expanded to more advanced functions and applications.

Do you think spending a lot of time on a computer is useful?

Spending a significant amount of time on a computer can indeed yield substantial benefits, provided it’s approached with purpose and balance. Computers have revolutionised various domains, enabling efficient research, communication and innovation. However, it’s imperative to strike a harmony between screen time and other aspects of a balanced life, such as physical activities and social interactions. This can help ensure a more holistic sense of well-being.

Thank you.

Lesson 111: More talk about TV showsđź“ş

Leave a reply

This week, we will use the speech shadowing technique to train for Part 3 of the IELTS Speaking exam.

Step 1: Listen to the full sample response.

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

Step 3: Work through this week’s full exercise. (Click here if you do not yet have access to full lessons.)

Step 4: Read through the below transcript. To get the most out of the ‘repeat after me’ method, review this transcript and attempt the full speech shadowing exercise more than once. Keep working on it until these patterns start to feel natural for you.

Step 5: Below is the first of five speech samples you must submit to your Whatsapp group. Practise saying the sample and when you feel ready, record your voice in the Whatsapp app. Then wait for your instructor’s feedback.

Chat on WhatsApp
Monday’s speech exercise

Say this in your Whatsapp group: 🗣️

“Personally, I find a wide range of TV shows interesting, but I am particularly drawn to thought-provoking documentaries and gripping crime dramas.“

Transcript

What kinds of TV shows do you find interesting?

Personally, I find a wide range of TV shows interesting, but I am particularly drawn to thought-provoking documentaries and gripping crime dramas. Documentaries provide me with valuable insights into various subjects, expanding my knowledge and understanding of the world. On the other hand, crime dramas captivate me with their intricate plotlines and suspenseful storytelling.

Why do TV shows resonate differently in different countries?

TV shows resonate differently in different countries due to cultural, social, and historical factors. Each country has its unique values, traditions, and preferences, which influence the viewers’ tastes and perceptions. Additionally, local TV shows often reflect the specific issues and concerns of a particular society, making them more relatable and engaging for the local audience. Thus, cultural context plays a vital role in shaping the resonance of TV shows in different countries.

How are TV shows different from movies?

TV shows differ from movies in several ways. Firstly, TV shows are typically episodic, consisting of multiple episodes that form a series and allow for character development and complex storylines. In contrast, movies are self-contained narratives presented within a limited timeframe. Secondly, TV shows have a longer duration, often spanning multiple seasons, while movies are typically confined to a single instalment. Additionally, TV shows have the flexibility to delve deeper into their narratives and explore diverse plotlines, whereas movies often focus on delivering a concise and compact story within a limited timeframe.

Have TV shows from your country changed compared to the past?

Yes, TV shows from my country have certainly changed compared to the past. In the past, there was a more limited variety of TV shows, with a heavy emphasis on traditional sitcoms, dramas, and news programmes. However, with advancements in technology and evolving viewer preferences, there has been a significant shift in content. Nowadays, we witness a surge in reality TV shows, talent competitions, and streaming platforms offering a wide range of genres and formats. This change has allowed for more diversity, creativity, and audience engagement in the television landscape of my country.

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

Lesson 81: Meeting people and social media📱

Leave a reply

This week, you will train to speak about meeting people and social media.

Step 1: Listen to the full sample.

Step 2: Tune in to this week’s podcast episode.

Step 3: Engage the full exercise.

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

Step 5: Post your speaking samples to your Whatsapp group and wait for feedback.

Chat on WhatsApp

Transcript

Do people become friends because they have a similar personality?

While this can be true, I don’t believe this is always the case. I think there need to be some similarities like common interests or a similar sense of humour, but looking at my friends I would say that our personalities are actually quite different. There are other things that bond us: mutual understanding, shared experiences and the things I previously mentioned. However, on the whole I would not say our personalities are the same. 

How do people in your country behave to a new person when they meet for the first time?

Well, in my country, we generally try to make the new person feel at ease. We definitely try to make them feel welcomed and so we show an interest in him or her. If the meeting is at our home, then we go to great lengths to make the newcomer feel honoured. So, we repeatedly offer food and drinks and make sure the guest knows that we value their presence. 

How can we make people feel comfortable the first time we meet them?

In my experience, humour is the best way. People who use self-deprecating humour always seem to make others around them feel comfortable because it shows the other person they can relax and are free to be casual. When you show you can laugh at yourself you exhibit self-confidence while also breaking the ice with the people around you. 

How do people maintain social contact with coworkers or colleagues?

I think social media goes a long way toward fostering personal relationships. Many of us don’t know our colleagues’ birthdays but apps like Facebook offer reminders so you can send someone wishes or even plan a mini celebration at work. Social media also lets you see who your co-workers are outside of work so you can see if you have similar interests or hobbies. This can be a starting point for a friendly relationship that extends beyond a simple acquaintance. 

Do you think it is a good idea for companies to give breaks to their employees?

I think that even if companies don’t give them employees will find a way to take them! Few people can work without interruption or break for eight hours or more. The mind needs to unwind, the body needs to move – or not move – but no work activity can or should be sustained for many hours without a short break. This leads to burnout and exhaustion, which leads to lowered productivity…so short-sighted thinking can potentially have long-lasting results. That is why I think it is a tragic mistake to not allow employee breaks.

Lesson 76: Photos🖼️

Leave a reply

This week’s lesson examines a Part 1 response that asks the candidate about their studies and the topic of ‘photos’.

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

Part 1 Questions
Do you work or study?
Do you enjoy studying this?
How will your studies help you in the future?
Let’s talk about photos. Do you enjoy taking photos?
Do you like to take photos of yourself?
Would you consider getting a professional photo taken of yourself?
Do you have a special family photo?
🧑‍🎓Target language:

At the risk of sounding (adjective), …
-awareness that saying something may cause a certain perception

“At the risk of sounding narcissistic, yes, I do enjoy taking my own photo.”

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

Step 3: Engage this week’s full ‘repeat after me’ exercise.

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!🗣️📲

“Yes, it has been my dream since childhood to study psychology. The different theories that attempt to explain human behaviour never cease to amaze me.”
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 study psychology at the university here.

Do you enjoy studying this?

Yes, it has been my dream since childhood to study psychology. The different theories that attempt to explain human behaviour never cease to amaze me.

How will your studies help you in the future?

I hope to attend a graduate programme to get a specialisation in family and child psychology, so my undergraduate degree is a necessary first step.

Let’s talk about photos. Do you enjoy taking photos?

Photography is one of my hobbies, so yes, I can often be found with my camera taking pictures of beautiful scenery.

Do you like to take photos of yourself?

At the risk of sounding narcissistic, yes, I do enjoy taking my own photo. Essentially though, it’s because I am never happy with the photos others take of me. So, if I don’t take a decent photo of myself once in a while, none would exist.

Would you consider getting a professional photo taken of yourself?

I was somewhat forced to do this last year. My brother and his wife arranged for a series of family portraits for my parents’ wedding anniversary. It was a lovely, albeit awkward, experience.

Do you have a special family photo?

Interestingly, even though a professional took our photos, I don’t consider these “special.” For me, I consider a photograph from my brother’s graduation special. The whole family is there, even my grandmother who is no longer with us. We are happy and just beaming with pride.

Thank you.

Lesson 72: Sources of informationđź“°

Leave a reply

This week’s IELTS Speaking Part 3 lesson examines information sources. Use this lesson as a form of speech therapy to help correct any deeply engrained speech habits you might have when speaking English.

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

Part 3 Questions

Will you continue to follow this person on social media?
Is social media important?
Where do people get most of their information from nowadays? 
Do older people get information from different sources?
Do you think you will continue to get information from the same sources in the future?
🧑‍🎓Target language:

You’d be hard pressed to find
-a phrase used to talk about something very difficult to find

“You’d be hard pressed to find a young adult reading a newspaper unless it was for the novelty value of it.”

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!🗣️📲

“Yes, I think I will continue to follow her as her content is interesting, informative and appealing.”
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

Will you continue to follow this person on social media?

Yes, I think I will continue to follow her as her content is interesting, informative and appealing. 

Is social media important?

If you had asked me fifteen years ago I would have said no, that it’s just a way to keep in touch with friends but now social media is unavoidable. It has become something far greater than a means to keep in touch with loved ones and has expanded to become a source of all information. For companies, it is a whole new vehicle for them – to be seen and to communicate with customers and potential customers. So much so, in fact, that companies hire staff that focus just on their social media presence. 

Where do people get most of their information from nowadays?

I think many people still use the TV and radio for information but the importance of the internet as a source of news cannot be overstated. Personally speaking, I use the internet exclusively for information because I can learn about events from multiple sources instantaneously. I would say that I am not alone in this and the sheer number of news websites or publications that have a web presence can attest to that. 

Do older people get information from different sources?

I think older people feel more comfortable with more traditional sources of information like the TV, radio or newspaper. You’d be hard pressed to find a young adult reading a newspaper unless it was for the novelty value of it. 

Do you think you will continue to get information from the same sources in the future?

I hesitate to say yes because I fear that one day soon those of us that get news from the internet will be deemed dinosaurs. I think just like with the TV, something new will eventually come up to replace the internet as a source of information and I wouldn’t be surprised if someone then said to me quote unquote “keep up with the times”.

Thank you.

Lesson 71: Someone you follow on social media📱

Leave a reply

This week

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

🧑‍🎓Target language:

distilled it
-break something down into its basic parts

“She has taken the best of our cuisine and distilled it.”
Talk about someone you follow on social media. Please say
-who the person is
-why you follow him/her
-what content he/she posts on social media
-and explain why you find him/her interesting

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 have only recently started following celebrities and other public figures on social media. Up until now I reserved ‘following’ and ‘friending’ only for people I actually knew.”
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

Talk about someone you follow on social media. Please say
-who the person is
-why you follow him/her
-what content he/she posts on social media
-and explain why you find him/her interesting

I have only recently started following celebrities and other public figures on social media. Up until now I reserved “following” and “friending” only for people I actually knew. However, I learned of an American woman who moved to this country some years ago and I have begun following her. Her name is Mary and she is a chef. I have been told she has a cooking show in the US which features cuisine from this country, Greece. I have never seen the show, but on social media she posts dishes she prepares with fresh, local produce, delicious cheeses, fish and meat. It intrigues me that a woman from across the pond has learned everything she can about our cuisine here and then presents it to her audience thousands of miles away. She generally advocates a healthy diet and lifestyle and through her foods, takes us back to simpler times when people prepared and enjoyed traditional food together. 

She also features various small, high-quality producers from Greece, which is both informative and helpful to me as a customer but also a great service to the producer since their products get known to a much wider audience. I find her and her social media presence interesting because she has taken the best of our cuisine and distilled it, keeping it pure and genuine while introducing it to the world.

Thank you.