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

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  • Lesson 108: Gifts and giving🫴

    This week’s lesson requires you speak about gifts and giving.

    Step 1: Listen to the full sample.

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

    Step 3: Now work through the full exercise. Consult the below transcript if needed.

    Step 4: Read through the below transcript.

    Step 5: Work through this week’s daily exercises with your Whatsapp instructor.

    Transcript

    Why do people give gifts to each other?


    People give gifts to each other for various reasons. Firstly, gift-giving is a way to express love, appreciation, and gratitude towards others. It allows individuals to convey their feelings and strengthen personal relationships. Additionally, giving gifts on special occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries, and holidays is a cultural tradition that brings joy and creates a sense of celebration.

    Do you think expensive gifts are more meaningful than inexpensive ones?


    The meaning of a gift is subjective and can vary from person to person. While expensive gifts may be associated with financial investment and perceived luxury, the true significance of a gift lies in the thought and sentiment behind it. Inexpensive gifts can be just as meaningful, as they often reflect personal thoughtfulness, creativity, and understanding of the recipient’s preferences and interests.

    What are the advantages and disadvantages of giving cash as a gift?


    Giving cash as a gift has both advantages and disadvantages. One advantage is that it provides the recipient with the freedom to choose something they truly desire or need, ensuring they get exactly what they want. However, a major disadvantage of giving cash is that it can be perceived as impersonal or lacking thoughtfulness compared to a carefully chosen gift.

    In your opinion, what makes a gift memorable and special?


    To my mind, a gift becomes memorable and special when it goes beyond a material object and creates a lasting emotional impact. I guess what I’m trying to say is that personalisation plays a crucial role. A gift that is tailored to the recipient’s interests, hobbies or aspirations shows thoughtfulness and consideration. The element of surprise can also enhance the memorability of a gift. Unexpected gestures or unique experiences associated with the gift can leave a lasting impression. 

    Should people feel obligated to reciprocate when they receive a gift?


    While the act of reciprocating a gift is often viewed as a social norm, I don’t think individuals should feel obligated to reciprocate. Reciprocity should stem from genuine appreciation and the desire to express gratitude, rather than a sense of obligation. It is important to recognise that the true value of a gift lies in the act of giving itself.

  • Lesson 107: A gift of money💰

    This week, you will use the following cue card to train for Part 2 of IELTS Speaking:

    Describe a time when you received money as a gift from a family member. You should say
    -when you received the gift
    -why you received it
    -what you did with the money
    -and explain how you felt after receiving the gift

    Step 1: Listen to the full sample.

    Step 2: Work through the sample exercise in the below podcast episode.

    Step 3: (Full lesson temporarily unavailable.)

    Step 4: Read through the below transcript.

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

    Transcript

    Describe a time when you received money as a gift from a family member. You should say
    -when you received the gift
    -why you received it
    -what you did with the money
    -and explain how you felt after receiving the gift

    On my last birthday, my grandmother surprised me with a generous sum of money as a gift. It was a delightful and unexpected gesture from her, and she explained that she wanted me to use the money in any way I pleased.

    After receiving the gift, I carefully considered how to utilise the money in a way that would be both meaningful and memorable. I wanted to make sure it would have a lasting impact on my life. Therefore, I decided to invest a portion of the money in my education. I enrolled myself in an online course that I had been eyeing for a while. This course was directly related to my career aspirations, and I knew it would enhance my skills and open up new opportunities for me in the future.

    Additionally, I decided to allocate a portion of the money towards a long-awaited vacation. I had been longing to take a break and explore a new destination. With the financial gift from my grandmother, I was able to book a trip to a picturesque beach resort. It was an incredible experience, allowing me to relax, rejuvenate, and create beautiful memories.

    Receiving such a generous gift from my grandmother made me feel an immense sense of gratitude and appreciation. It was not just about the monetary value of the gift but also the thought and love behind it. Knowing that my grandmother cared about my dreams and aspirations, and wanted to contribute to my personal growth, touched me deeply. I will always cherish that memorable day and the impact this gift had on my life.

  • Lesson 107: Friendship👬

    This week, we’re talking about friendship – a very common topic in IELTS Speaking.

    Step 1: Listen to the full sample.

    Step 2: Work through the sample exercise.

    Step 3: Complete the full speech shadowing exercise.

    Step 4: Read through the below transcript.

    Step 5: Complete this week’s daily speech shadowing exercises with your Whatsapp instructor.

    Chat on WhatsApp

    Transcript

    Where are you from?

    I am originally from New York City.

    Do you work or study?

    Currently, I am pursuing my undergraduate degree in economics at the prestigious New York University. Although my main focus is on my studies, I also engage in part-time work to gain practical experience and support myself financially.

    When do you feel happy at work?

    I find happiness at work when I am fully engaged in meaningful tasks that align with my skills and interests. I also like working in a positive and supportive environment with friendly colleagues and I find this enhances my overall job satisfaction. Collaboration, mutual respect, and a sense of camaraderie foster a pleasant work atmosphere and contribute to my happiness in the workplace.

    Let’s talk about friends. Do you have many friends?

    Although I value quality over quantity when it comes to friendships, I am fortunate to have a close-knit circle of friends who are dependable, understanding and supportive. While the size of my social circle may not be extensive, the depth of the connections I have with my friends is truly meaningful. We share common interests and values, and we actively support each other through life’s ups and downs.

    Is making friends easy for you?

    I consider myself to be a sociable and outgoing individual, which generally makes it easier for me to make new friends. However, I believe that building deep and lasting friendships requires time, effort, and shared experiences. Thus, while I may find it relatively easy to establish initial connections, forming meaningful friendships requires investment and mutual understanding.

    What sort of people do you most easily make friends with?

    I find that I most easily make friends with individuals who share similar interests and values. I also appreciate people who are open-minded, empathetic, and possess a sense of humour. These qualities foster a comfortable and welcoming environment, making it easier for me to connect with them on a deeper level.

  • Lesson 106: Routines in your country⏰

    This week, you will train for Part 3 of IELTS Speaking. The topic this week requires you use the present simple, as you are speaking about routines.

    Step 1: Listen to the full sample.

    Step 2: Work through this week’s sample ‘repeat after me’ exercise.

    Step 3: Complete this week’s full exercise.

    Step 4: Read through this week’s transcript and note the language you found challenging. Review this language in the coming weeks.

    Step 5: Complete this week’s Whatsapp exercises with your instructor. Post your samples to your group and wait for your instructor’s feedback.

    Chat on WhatsApp

    Transcript

    Are your daily routines similar to other people from your country?
    Yes, my daily routines are similar to those of others in my country. We generally follow a consistent pattern of activities throughout the day, such as morning routines, work or school commitments, designated break times, recreational activities, and evening preparations for sleep.

    Are routines easy to change?
    Routines can be both easy and challenging to change. It depends on factors like personal motivations, external circumstances, flexibility of commitments, and individual adaptability. Some find it easier to adjust to new routines, while others may struggle. For example, someone with a more structured work schedule may find it harder to modify their routine compared to someone with a more flexible lifestyle. Ultimately, the ability to change routines varies from person to person.

    At what time of the day do you prefer to carry out your routines?
    Personally, I prefer morning routines. Starting the day early allows me to be productive, energised, and focused. After waking up, I engage in my morning hygiene routine and have a nutritious breakfast to fuel my body and mind. This helps me feel energised and ready to tackle the tasks and responsibilities that lie ahead. I find the peaceful atmosphere in the early hours further enhances my concentration and sets a positive tone for the day.

    How do people in your country spend their free time?
    People in my country engage in various activities during their free time. These include pursuing hobbies, spending time with loved ones, personal development through reading or attending workshops, and utilising technology for entertainment or information.

    What did people do in their free time in the past?
    In the past, people engaged in traditional forms of entertainment. Activities such as socialising, playing traditional games, reading books, writing letters, and outdoor pursuits were common. People connected on a personal level and appreciated simpler pleasures.

    How have current leisure activities changed compared to the past?
    Leisure activities have significantly changed due to technology and societal shifts. Digital entertainment, such as streaming movies, playing video games, and social media, has become prevalent. Traditional hobbies and outdoor activities still exist but have taken a backseat. Efforts are being made to promote balance between digital engagement and real life experiences, encouraging physical fitness, social interaction and personal growth.

  • Lesson 105: A daily routine🤞

    This week examines an extremely common IELTS Speaking topic! You will train to speak about a daily routine.

    Let’s start the lesson by looking at the following IELTS Speaking Part 2 cue card:

    Describe a daily routine in your life. You should say:
    -what you do
    -when you started doing it
    -why you do this routine
    -and explain whether you will change it in the future and why

    Now work your way through the below steps. Be sure to note any and all new language you come across in your notebook.

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

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

    Step 3: Complete this week’s full 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. (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 would like to talk about my daily exercise routine, which has become an integral part of my life. Every morning, without fail, I dedicate a significant amount of time to physical exercise, helping me maintain a healthy lifestyle.”
    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

    Describe a daily routine in your life. You should say:
    -what you do
    -when you started doing it
    -why you do this routine
    -and explain whether you will change it in the future and why

    I would like to talk about my daily exercise routine, which has become an integral part of my life. Every morning, without fail, I dedicate a significant amount of time to physical exercise, helping me maintain a healthy lifestyle.

    I started this routine approximately five years ago when I realised the importance of regular exercise for both physical and mental well-being. Initially, it was a challenge to incorporate exercise into my daily schedule, but with time and perseverance, it has become an essential habit. I usually engage in a combination of cardiovascular exercises, such as jogging or cycling, followed by strength training exercises using weights or resistance bands.

    There are several reasons why I adhere to this routine religiously. Firstly, physical exercise helps me stay fit and energetic throughout the day. It boosts my metabolism, improves my stamina, and enhances my overall physical endurance. Further, exercise also plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy weight, which is essential for preventing lifestyle diseases such as obesity and diabetes. Moreover, regular exercise has been proven to have positive effects on mental health, reducing stress and anxiety while promoting a sense of well-being and happiness.

    Considering the immense benefits I have experienced over the years, I have no plans to change this routine in the foreseeable future. The positive impact it has had on my overall health and well-being is too significant to overlook. Because the benefits I have gained from this routine have greatly exceeded my expectations, I firmly believe that daily exercise will remain a vital aspect of my life.

  • Lesson 104: A person you would like to work or study with👨‍🏫

    This week’s lesson uses the following Part 2 cue card:

    Talk about a person you want to work or study with. You should say:
    -who the person is
    -how you know him/her
    -what he/she does
    -and explain why you want to work or study with this person

    Step 1: Listen to the full sample.

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

    Step 3: Now attempt the full exercise below.

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

    Step 5: Complete your speech samples and send them to your Whatsapp instructor.

    Chat on WhatsApp

    Transcript

    Talk about a person you want to work or study with. You should say:
    -who the person is
    -how you know him/her
    -what he/she does
    -and explain why you want to work or study with this person

    The person I would like to work or study with is my former professor, Dr. Maria Hernandez. I got to know her during my undergraduate years at university, where she was my lecturer for several courses related to my major in psychology.

    Dr. Hernandez is an accomplished academic with over 20 years of experience in teaching and research. She has published numerous papers in top-tier academic journals and has received multiple awards and accolades for her contributions to the field. Her research interests in social psychology, particularly on group dynamics and intergroup relations, align with my own research interests and aspirations.

    I would love to work or study with Dr. Hernandez for several reasons. First, she is an excellent mentor who is supportive and encouraging. She has always been approachable and responsive to my questions and concerns, and has provided invaluable guidance and feedback on my academic work. Second, her research expertise and experience would be a valuable asset for any project or collaboration. Working with her would not only enhance my own skills and knowledge, but also provide opportunities for networking and collaboration with other scholars in the field. Finally, Dr. Hernandez’s passion for teaching and learning is infectious, and I am confident that working or studying with her would be a stimulating and rewarding experience.

    In conclusion, Dr. Maria Hernandez’s expertise, mentorship, and passion for teaching and research would be invaluable in achieving my academic and professional goals, and I would relish the opportunity to collaborate with her on future projects.

  • 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 102: Noise pollution🎺

    In today’s shadowing session, you will train to speak about noise and how it can negatively impact a person’s life.

    Step 1: Listen to the full speaking model multiple times. Try to envision the way you will shadow this dialogue.

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

    Step 3: Work through the full exercise below.

    Step 4: Read through the below transcript of the dialogue between the candidate and the examiner. What language was new to you this week? What was challenging? Note these items in your journal and review this journal regularly.

    Step 5: Complete your speech samples and submit them to your Whatsapp instructor.

    Chat on WhatsApp

    Transcript

    Is noise pollution an issue where you live?

    Yes, noise pollution is definitely an issue where I live. There are a number of factors contributing to the noise pollution, such as heavy traffic, construction work, and noisy neighbours. I believe that this is a common problem in many urban areas, and it can have a negative impact on people’s quality of life.

    What do you think are the main causes of noise pollution in our cities?

    In my opinion, the main causes of noise pollution in our cities are transportation and construction. The increasing number of cars, trucks, and motorcycles on the roads can create a lot of noise, especially during rush hour. Additionally, construction sites can generate loud and persistent noise that can be very disruptive to nearby residents.

    Can noise pollution affect people’s health?

    Yes, noise pollution can certainly affect people’s health. Exposure to excessive noise levels can lead to a range of health problems, such as hearing loss and high blood pressure. It can also cause sleep disturbances, which can have a negative impact on overall health and well-being.

    How do you think noise pollution affects wildlife?

    Noise pollution can have a significant impact on wildlife. Many animals rely on sound to communicate, navigate, and locate food, and excessive noise can disrupt these activities. For example, loud noises can scare away birds and other animals from their habitats, making it difficult for them to find food or shelter.

    Do you think governments should regulate noise levels in public places more strictly?

    I strongly believe that governments should regulate noise levels in public places more strictly. Excessive noise can have a negative impact on people’s health, as well as their quality of life. By implementing regulations and enforcing noise limits, governments can help to mitigate the effects of noise pollution and create a more peaceful and livable environment for all.

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

  • Lesson 101: A noisy situation😖

    Is speech shadowing effective? Yes! Let this lesson about ‘a noisy situation’ convince you. Here is the Part 2 cue card we are using in today’s exercise:

    Describe a situation where you experienced a lot of noise.
    You should say:

    -Where you were
    -What made the noise
    -How the noise affected you
    -And what you did do to deal with the noise

    Part 1: First, 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 what you’ve learned today.

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

    Chat on WhatsApp

    Transcript

    Describe a situation where you experienced a lot of noise.
    You should say:

    -Where you were
    -What made the noise
    -How the noise affected you
    -And what you did do to deal with the noise

    I’m going to describe a situation where I experienced a lot of noise. This happened a few months ago when I was visiting a friend who lived near a construction site. The noise was coming from the construction site, where they were building a new apartment complex.

    The construction was very loud and it affected me in a number of ways. First of all, it was difficult to carry on a conversation with my friend because we occasionally had to shout to hear each other over the noise. Additionally, the noise was so persistent that it was difficult to focus on anything else. I found myself becoming increasingly irritable and frustrated as the noise continued.

    In order to deal with the noise, we decided to leave the apartment and go for a walk in a nearby park. This helped us to get away from the noise and enjoy some peace and quiet for a while. We also wore earplugs when we were inside the apartment, which helped to reduce the noise somewhat.

    Overall, the experience was very frustrating, but I learned a lot from it. I realised how much noise can affect my mood and my ability to focus, and I have since become more aware of the noise levels in my environment. If I ever find myself in a similar situation again, I will be sure to take steps to minimise the impact of the noise on my wellbeing.

    Thank you.

  • 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.