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

Category: Yourself

  • Lesson 155: An appliance you use daily🔌

    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 3: Engage this week’s full speech shadowing lesson. (If you do not yet have access, click here to sign up for full lessons.)

    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.”
    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 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.

  • Lesson 151: Drawing🎨

    This week’s lesson pushes you to train to speak about a common hobby: drawing. As you will hear in the sample, the candidate isn’t super enthusiastic about drawing, and they skillfully use language choices to express this.

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

    Part 1 Questions

    Do you work or study?
    Why did you choose this job?
    Let’s talk about drawing. Do you like drawing?
    What do you draw?
    Are there benefits to drawing?
    Is it important to teach children how to draw?
    Is it important for adults to be able to draw?
    🧑‍🎓Target language:

    doodle
    -a rough drawing made absentmindedly

    “I might doodle an animal one day and a busy city street the next.”

    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. (If you do not yet have access, click here to sign up for full lessons.)

    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 do draw on occasion, and I would say I like it for the most part. The act of sketching allows me to unwind and unleash my creativity, but I have to admit I’m not particularly talented at it.”
    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 as a server at a popular dining establishment in the heart of the city. My role involves providing exceptional customer service, taking orders and ensuring a pleasant dining experience for patrons.

    Why did you choose this job?

    The decision to pursue a career in the restaurant industry was influenced by my passion for hospitality and interpersonal interaction. I thrive in environments where I can engage with people from diverse backgrounds and cater to their needs with warmth and professionalism. Let’s talk about drawing.

    Do you like drawing?

    I do draw on occasion, and I would say I like it for the most part. The act of sketching allows me to unwind and unleash my creativity, but I have to admit I’m not particularly talented at it.

    What do you draw?

    I don’t usually plan out my drawings ahead of time, so they tend to encompass a wide array of subjects. I might doodle an animal one day and a busy city street the next. I think the last time I drew something it was a cross section of a house, where you could see the rooms inside and what was going on.

    Are there benefits to drawing?

    Drawing offers a multitude of benefits beyond its artistic appeal. Engaging in drawing promotes mindfulness and relaxation, and I feel it serves as a therapeutic outlet for stress relief and self-expression. Moreover, it enhances cognitive skills such as observation, spatial reasoning and problem-solving, and this can encourage mental agility and creative thinking.

    Is it important to teach children how to draw?

    Yes, it certainly is. Nurturing children’s drawing skills is essential for their holistic development and self-discovery. For example, drawing encourages imagination, fine motor skills and visual literacy, and I believe these skills provide a foundation for creative expression and critical thinking.

    Is it important for adults to be able to draw?

    I wouldn’t say it is critically important, but it can be a useful skill to have in certain personal and professional contexts. Being capable of sketching concepts –such as business ideas or flooring layouts in an office– enhances communication, problem-solving and innovation. As I mentioned before, it could be a source of relaxation for certain people, too.

    Thank you.

  • Lesson 145: Music in your country🪕

    This week, we are looking at Part 1 of a recent IELTS Speaking exam.

    Step 1: Listen to the full sample.

    Step 2: Tune in to this week’s IELTSCast episode and practise saying a few of the lines from the speech sample.

    Step 3: Complete the full exercise using the below video.

    Step 4: Read through the below transcript and note all areas that you found new or challenging this week.

    Step 5: Complete your weekly speech shadowing exercises with your Whatsapp instructor. Below is Monday’s exercise. Tuesday through Friday’s exercises will be posted to your Whatsapp group.

    Chat on WhatsApp

    Transcript

    What is your name?

    My name is Ryan.

    Where are you from?

    I am from the city of Salvador. It’s situated along the northeastern coast of Brazil.

    What do you do? Work or study?

    Currently, I am pursuing a degree in social sciences at a university in my city.

    What do you like about your studies?

    I like learning about societal structures. For example, the degree lets me analyse human behaviour and societal dynamics, and these are topics that I find fascinating.

    What type of music do you enjoy listening to?

    This is probably no surprise, but Brazilian music holds a special place in my heart. I especially like styles such as bossa nova. In fact, I have a Brazilian bossa nova playlist that I listen to almost every day.

    When do you usually listen to music?

    I often immerse myself in music during relaxing moments, such as when I’m on the beautiful beaches of Salvador or enjoying a lazy Sunday afternoon.

    Was music a part of your education during your school days?

    It was! Music education was integral during my school days in Brazil. We had dedicated classes where we explored the rhythms of samba and the melodies of bossa nova. For us students, these sessions were not only informative but also a source of national pride.

    Have you ever learned to play a musical instrument?

    Yes. I learned how to play the acoustic guitar. Playing allows me to express the soulful melodies that are deeply ingrained in Brazilian culture.

    Do many people in your country enjoy music?

    Without a doubt. Music is a fundamental part of life in Brazilian culture. You can hear it pretty much everywhere – on a busy bus or…coming from someone’s window as you walk down the street. It’s a hallmark of our country.

    Thank you.

  • Lesson 114: A significant personal achievement you had🎓

    This week, you will once again speak about a personal experience. This is a Part 2 model that uses the following cue card:

    Talk about a significant personal achievement you had. You should say:

    -what the achievement was
    -when and where it happened
    -the steps you took to accomplish it
    -and say why it is significant to you

    Step 1: Listen to the full sample.

    Step 2: Watch the video version of this week’s podcast episode. (Please excuse the bright background! I forgot to edit this before rendering the video.)

    Step 3: Work through the full version of this week’s speech shadowing exercise.

    Step 4: Read through the below transcript. Make special note of areas you found challenging this week.

    Step 5: Submit your daily speech samples to your instructor via your Whatsapp group.

    Chat on WhatsApp

    Trancsript

    Talk about a significant personal achievement you had. You should say:

    -what the achievement was
    -when and where it happened
    -the steps you took to accomplish it
    -and say why it is significant to you

    Well, one of the most significant personal achievements I had was winning the National Science Fair during my final year of high school. It was a remarkable experience that left a lasting impact on my life.

    The achievement occurred back in May of 2015 at the state-of-the-art convention center in our city. The National Science Fair is an annual event that attracts top young minds from all over the country to showcase their innovative projects and research.

    Accomplishing this achievement required months of rigorous research, experimentation, and countless hours of hard work. My project focused on finding an eco-friendly alternative to plastic packaging materials, aiming to reduce environmental pollution caused by plastic waste.

    The first step I took was extensively researching scientific papers and academic journals, and I sought advice from experts in the field. Then came the testing phase, which involved designing a series of experiments, carrying out numerous trial runs, and recording my findings meticulously. I encountered many sleepless nights, but the support of my family, teachers, and peers kept me motivated.

    Finally, the day of the National Science Fair arrived. Standing alongside other brilliant young minds, I presented my project to a panel of esteemed judges and visitors. The experience was nerve-wracking, but my passion for my research helped me articulate my findings confidently. When the results were announced, I couldn’t believe it—I had won the first prize!

    This achievement is incredibly significant to me because it reinforced my passion for science and the environment, shaping both my academic and career trajectory. It also solidified my decision to pursue a degree in Environmental Science, which I am currently doing in university.

  • Lesson 103: T-shirts👕

    This week, you will train to speak about clothing, specifically T-shirts. Use the below shadowing technique to improve your fluency.

    Step 1: As always, start this week’s training by familiarising yourself with the model.

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

    Step 3: Now complete your full shadowing practice using the below exercise. (If you do not yet have access to full exercises, click here.)

    Step 4: Read through the below transcript and make note of all items you found challenging or new this week.

    Step 5: Send your speech samples to your Whatsapp instructor and wait for their feedback.

    Chat on WhatsApp

    Transcript

    Where do you live?

    I currently reside in Dhaka. It’s a vibrant city with lots to offer in terms of culture, entertainment, and opportunities.

    Do you like wearing T-shirts?

    Absolutely! T-shirts are comfortable and versatile, making them a staple in my wardrobe. I find them perfect for casual outings, exercise, or even lounging at home.

    How often do you wear T-shirts?

    I wear T-shirts almost every day, especially during the warmer months. They’re easy to style and can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion.

    What kind of T-shirts do you wear for different occasions?

    For casual outings or running errands, I usually wear plain, solid-coloured T-shirts. For more formal events, I opt for dressier T-shirts with a subtle pattern or design. I also enjoy wearing graphic tees with quirky prints for a funkier look.

    Have you ever bought a T-shirt as a souvenir from a place you visited?

    Yes, I have. I think buying a T-shirt as a souvenir is a great way to remember a trip or experience. I have a collection of T-shirts from various places that hold special memories for me.

    What do you think of T-shirts with slogans or messages on them?

    I think T-shirts with slogans or messages on them can be a great way to express oneself or make a statement. However, I do believe that the message should be positive and respectful. I find it inappropriate when T-shirts have offensive or derogatory messages on them.

  • Lesson 100: Your hometown and noise🔊

    This week’s lesson will demonstrate to you some of the advantages of shadowing. You will speak about the most common topic in IELTS Speaking: your hometown. The dialogue with the examiner then evolves to talk about noise.

    Step 1: Familiarise yourself with the questions asked in the demonstration and this week’s target language.

    Part 1 Questions

    Where are you from?
    What is your hometown like?
    Is your hometown peaceful or noisy?
    What are the main sources of noise in your hometown?
    Does the noise interfere with your daily life?
    Do you like places that are peaceful?
    🧑‍🎓Target language:

    noise pollution (noun)
    -a group of unpleasant sounds

    “There are always road repairs being done and new buildings going up, which can lead to a lot of noise pollution.”

    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. (If you do not yet have access, click here to sign up for full lessons.)

    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!🗣️📲

    “Toronto is a very dynamic and exciting city with a lot to offer. There are many different neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and charm. Some parts of the city are very modern and bustling, while others have a more historic and traditional feel. Overall, Toronto is a great place to live.”
    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 the vibrant city of Toronto.

    What is your hometown like?

    Toronto is a very dynamic and exciting city with a lot to offer. There are many different neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and charm. Some parts of the city are very modern and bustling, while others have a more historic and traditional feel. Overall, Toronto is a great place to live.

    Is your hometown peaceful or noisy?

    It really depends on where you are in the city. Some parts of Toronto are quite peaceful and serene, while others are quite noisy and chaotic. For example, the downtown core can be very noisy due to the traffic and crowds, while some of the residential neighborhoods are much quieter.

    What are the main sources of noise in your hometown?

    The main sources of noise in Toronto are definitely the traffic and construction. There are always road repairs being done and new buildings going up, which can lead to a lot of noise pollution. In addition, the city is also home to many events and festivals, and these can be quite loud and busy.

    Does the noise interfere with your daily life?

    To some extent, yes, the noise can be a bit of a nuisance at times. However, I have learned to adapt to it and it doesn’t really interfere with my daily life too much. I think it’s just a part of living in a big city.

    Do you like places that are peaceful?

    Yes, I definitely enjoy peaceful places. While I love the excitement and energy of the city, I also appreciate the tranquility of more peaceful environments. It’s nice to be able to escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and just relax in a peaceful setting.

    Thank you.

  • Lesson 99: Movie preferences📽️

    Sometimes people ask broad questions like “Is shadowing good or bad?” or “Is shadowing useful?” I hope lessons like this one convince you that shadowing is key to your IELTS Speaking preparation! In this lesson, you are going to shadow speech patterns on the topic of ‘movie preferences’.

    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 make special note of the new or challenging language you shadowed this week.

    Step 5: Complete all five of your shadowing exercises with your Whatsapp instructor.

    Chat on WhatsApp

    Transcript

    Do you often watch movies twice?
    I would say that I rarely watch a movie twice. However, there are some movies that I have enjoyed so much that I have watched them multiple times. For instance, I have watched “The Shawshank Redemption” a few times because I think it is a classic movie that has a great storyline and excellent performances by the actors. Generally, I believe that watching a movie twice can be beneficial as it allows the viewer to notice certain details that they may have missed the first time around. It also gives them a chance to appreciate the nuances of the film and to develop a deeper understanding of the story.

    Why do some movies remain people’s favourite forever, no matter when they were released?
    I think some movies remain people’s favourite because they have timeless themes and universal appeal. These movies almost always deal with human emotions and experiences that are relatable to people of all ages and cultures. Additionally, these movies often have excellent storytelling, great acting, and memorable characters that resonate with viewers. Furthermore, some movies become classics because they were groundbreaking in their time and have had a significant impact on the film industry, influencing future filmmakers and shaping the direction of cinema.

    How do people usually choose which movies to watch?
    People usually choose which movies to watch based on several factors, including their interests, recommendations from friends or family, reviews, and the movie’s genre, actors, or director. Some people also choose to watch a movie based on its trailer or promotional media, which can give them a sense of the film’s tone and style. Ultimately, the decision to watch a movie is often influenced by personal preferences and individual tastes.

    Do you think people’s taste in movies is influenced by their age, gender or culture?
    I believe these things can be influential to some extent, yes. For example, younger viewers may be more drawn to action or superhero movies, while older viewers may prefer dramas or romantic comedies. As far as gender is concerned…the women in my family are much more interested in comedy and drama movies than the men. This could perhaps be gender related. Additionally, people’s cultural background can also influence their preferences, as different cultures may have different storytelling traditions and styles of filmmaking. However, it is important to note that individual taste is also shaped by personal experiences and individual preferences.

    Do you think the popularity of certain actors or actresses influences people’s choice of movies?
    Yes, I believe the popularity of certain actors or actresses can influence people’s choice of movies. Fans of a particular actor or actress may be more likely to watch a movie simply because their favourite actor is in it. Additionally, the presence of a popular actor or actress can also help to create buzz and generate interest in a movie, especially if they have a large following on social media or are known for delivering great performances. However, it is important to note that the popularity of an actor or actress is not the only factor that determines a person’s movie choice. Other factors such as the storyline, direction, and production value also play a significant role.

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

  • Lesson 96: A favourite area in your home🏠

    Is speech shadowing important to train fully for IELTS Speaking? Yes! It can help you refine your accent and broaden your vocabulary. Today’s exercise on the topic of ‘a favourite area in your home’ will demonstrate this.

    Step 1: Listen to the full sample.

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

    Step 3: Complete the full exercise by watching the below video.

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

    Step 5: Submit your speaking samples to your Whatsapp instructor and wait for feedback.

    Chat on WhatsApp

    Transcript

    Describe an area in your home where you feel relaxed. You should say:

    -what area or room it is
    -when you spend time in it
    -why you feel relaxed there
    -and explain what you do to relax

    The area in my home where I feel most relaxed is my bedroom. As the name suggests, it is a place where I can retire after a long day to unwind and recharge. I guess this is unsurprising, but I spend most of my time in my bedroom during the evening and night-time.

    The reason I feel so relaxed in my bedroom is because of the peaceful and cozy environment it provides. The walls are painted in pale shades of blue and green, which I find have a calming effect on my mind. The lighting is also soft and dim. This is actually by design – I bought these lamps because of the warm and inviting atmosphere they create. The furniture, including the bed and the armchair, is comfortable and soft to the touch, making it easy to sink into and relax.

    When I want to relax in my bedroom, I usually engage in activities that help me unwind. For example, I like to read a book or listen to some soothing music. Sometimes, I also like to meditate or practise yoga, as it helps me clear my mind and release any tension that may have built up during the day. If I am feeling particularly tired, I may even take a nap or get an early night’s sleep.

    Overall, my bedroom is my sanctuary, a place where I can shut out the noise of the world and focus on myself. It is a room where I can find peace and relaxation, and for that reason, it is my favourite area in my home.

  • Lesson 94: Your name🧑

    In this lesson, you will shadow talk Part 1 of a model IELTS Speaking exam and a very personal subject: your name!

    Step 1: To start, listen to the full model response.

    Step 2: The IELTSCast episode for this week’s lesson is temporarily unavailable.

    Step 3: Work through the full exercise below.

    Step 4: Read through the transcript and make note of any language you found challenging this week.

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

    Chat on WhatsApp

    Transcript

    Do you work or study?
    I work in software for a tech company. I graduated from university a few years ago, and since then I’ve been working in the industry.

    What kind of job do you have?
    I’m a software engineer. This means I’m responsible for designing and developing software applications. My job involves coding, testing, and debugging software to ensure that it meets the requirements of the project. This role also requires I be familiar with project management frameworks to ensure the complex nature of our work is kept organised.

    Do you feel pressure when you work?
    Yes, I do feel pressure at times. Deadlines can be tight, and there’s often a lot of work to do. However, I try to manage my workload and prioritise tasks to ensure that I meet deadlines without sacrificing quality.

    Let’s talk about names. Does your name have a meaning?
    Yes, my name is Tom, which is a short form of Thomas. As I understand it, Thomas is a Greek name that means ‘twin’, although I don’t have a twin sibling. It’s a popular name in the UK and has been in use for centuries.

    Do you have any family members with the same name as yours?
    Yes, my grandfather’s name is also Tom. He’s been an important figure in my life, and we share a close bond. It’s an honour to have the same name as him, and it’s something that I’m proud of. I might even consider naming my son ‘Tom’ as well if I’m fortunate enough to have children one day!

    Thank you.

  • Lesson 91: Shoes👟

    This week, you will train for IELTS Speaking Part 1. This model talks about a very unique topic: shoes!

    Part 1: Listen to the full sample.

    Part 2: Tune in to this week’s IELTSCast episode and practist repeating some of the language.

    Part 3: Complete the full speech shadowing exercise.

    Part 4: Read through the transcript and identify any areas to review.

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

    Chat on WhatsApp

    Transcript

    Do you study or work?

    I am currently pursuing a higher education at a well-renowned university. I am studying a multidisciplinary field which is a balanced combination of my diverse interests.

    Where do you study?

    My university is located in the bustling city centre, providing a perfect combination of academic rigor and cultural diversity. It’s a supportive learning environment that I find motivates me to achieve my goals.

    What type of shoes do you wear?

    I am quite meticulous when it comes to footwear, as it plays a crucial role in my daily comfort. I usually wear premium sneakers made from high-quality materials, which offer excellent cushioning and support.

    What is your favourite colour for shoes?

    My favourite shoe colour is navy blue. I find it to be a timeless and stylish colour that can be easily paired with a wide range of other clothing.

    Do you often buy shoes in this colour?

    Yes, I often purchase shoes in this particular shade as I find it to be a reliable choice for various occasions. Moreover, because it is a darker colour, any scuffs or other signs of wear and tear are difficult to see.

    How often do you buy new shoes?

    I believe in the philosophy of investing in quality over quantity, which is why I don’t buy shoes frequently. I usually purchase a new pair of shoes every 8 to 10 months, or when my current pair starts to show clear signs of age.

    When did you last buy a pair of shoes?

    I actually bought my last pair of shoes just a few weeks ago. They are navy blue sneakers made from premium materials, and I am thoroughly impressed with their comfort and performance. I can confidently say that they are among the best shoes I have ever owned.