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

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  • Lesson 148: Your village and native language💬

    This week’s ‘repeat after me’ lesson uses questions from Part 1 of a recent IELTS Speaking exam.

    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 live in a village, town or city?
    What do you like about your village?
    Is your village a good place to raise children?
    What languages are children taught in schools?
    Is music used to teach the native language in your country?
    Whose duty is it to teach the native language to children?
    🧑‍🎓Target language:

    deep-rooted (adjective)
    Something that is firmly established.

    “One aspect that I like about my village is its deep-rooted traditions and strong sense of community.”

    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!🗣️📲

    “One aspect that I like about my village is its deep-rooted traditions and strong sense of community. We have annual festivals for a variety of occasions, and I like how these festivals bring a sense unity and belonging. My village is also just a really beautiful place. It has fields and mountains and cherry blossoms that come out in the spring.”
    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?

    Currently, I am a student. I am pursuing a degree in Agricultural Science at the local university.

    Do you live in a village, town, or city?

    I live in a charming village in the countryside of Japan.

    What do you like about your village?

    One aspect that I like about my village is its deep-rooted traditions and strong sense of community. We have annual festivals for a variety of occasions, and I like how these festivals bring a sense unity and belonging. My village is also just a really beautiful place. It has fields and mountains and cherry blossoms that come out in the spring.

    Is your village a good place to raise children?

    It certainly is. The safety of our village makes it an ideal environment for raising children. There are clean parks, safe streets and close-knit neighbourhoods. Children are safe to explore and play freely. Moreover, the local schools prioritise holistic education, instilling values of respect and cooperation from a young age.

    What languages are children taught in schools?

    In our schools, children primarily learn Japanese, which is our native language. Additionally, English is introduced as a compulsory subject from elementary school onwards to prepare students for global opportunities.

    Is music used to teach the native language in your country?

    Yes, music is integrated into language education. Japanese nursery rhymes and traditional songs are often used to teach language fundamentals, enhance pronunciation and deepen cultural understanding. It makes the learning process more engaging and memorable for students of all ages.

    Whose duty is it to teach the native language to children?

    The responsibility of teaching the native language primarily rests with our educational institutions. They are equipped with innovative teaching methods and resources to impart language skills effectively. However, I believe parents also play a crucial role in nurturing language development at home. They can do a lot to foster a child’s love for our rich cultural heritage and language.

  • Lesson 147: Relaxation in your country🎣

    This week’s Part 3 model continues from last week’s cue card on the topic of ‘relaxation’.

    Step 1: Listen to the full sample band 9 response.

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

    Step 3: Complete the full exercise.

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

    Step 5: Complete your five speaking exercises with your Whatsapp instructor. Here is the first exercise (due Monday night) :

    Chat on WhatsApp

    Transcript

    Are there many places for relaxation in your country that are well-known?

    Yes. Brazil has numerous well-known relaxation destinations that cater to a variety of tastes. There are natural landscapes, such as the beaches and forests in Rio de Janeiro, but also cultural spots like Sao Paulo Cathedral and various museums.

    What places for relaxation are popular with people in your country?

    I would say the beaches rank highly among locals as popular places for relaxation. Beach life offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Additionally, relaxation services such as those found in gyms and spas have gained popularity in recent years. I think people see these services as rejuvenating and good for physical health and mental well-being, and this is why they have become so popular.

    Why do people like to relax in different places?

    I believe this is influenced by a number of different factors. Some individuals gravitate towards natural settings like beaches and parks due to the calming effect of nature and the opportunity to get away from other people. Others seek relaxation in urban environments, and I think these personality types are more drawn to the vibrant energy that you can only find in cities. Ultimately, I think each person’s pathway to true relaxation is unique.

    Do you think relaxation is important?

    Without a doubt. Relaxation is paramount for maintaining overall health and well-being. Today’s fast-paced world is characterised by relentless work schedules and constant connectivity. Thus, taking time to unwind not only alleviates stress but also promotes mental clarity. I also think relaxation is important because it fosters creativity, enhances productivity and improves the overall quality of a person’s life.

    In your opinion, should employers pay for the relaxation of their employees?

    No. While some organisations may offer perks such as wellness programmes or flexible work arrangements, expecting employers to finance all relaxation activities is not practical for every business. Instead, employers can support employee well-being by fostering a supportive work environment and promoting healthy work practices.

    Thank you.

  • Lesson 146: A relaxing place🥰

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

    Describe a place you often go to relax. You should say
    -where this place is
    -why you go there to relax
    -when you usually go there
    -and explain how you feel when you are there

    Step 1: Listen to this week’s sample.

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

    Step 3: Work through the full exercise.

    Step 4: Read through the below transcript and note the language that was new or challenging to you this week.

    Step 5: Submit your speech samples to your Whatsapp group. Below is the speech sample for Monday:

    Chat on WhatsApp

    Transcript

    Describe a place you often go to relax. You should say
    -where this place is
    -why you go there to relax
    -when you usually go there
    -and explain how you feel when you are there

    Well, one place I frequently visit to unwind is a quiet public garden located on the outskirts of my city. 

    This garden is situated about 20 kilometres from my residence, and I believe it’s maintained by a nearby church community. It is never busy and, to my mind, it is relaxing because it is a perfect coupling of natural beauty and tranquility. Whenever I go there, the garden is lush and full of colour and the birds are chirping in and around the nearby trees.

    I typically visit this garden during weekends, which allows me to disconnect from the demands of work and immerse myself in nature. If I can make it there in the morning, the sunlight filters through the tree leaves and this creates a really relaxing atmosphere. This coupled with the refreshing scent of flowers is therapeutic and helps me recharge for the coming workweek.

    As for how I feel, when I am in this serene environment, a profound sense of tranquility washes over me. The stress and tension accumulated during the week seem to dissipate as I absorb the beauty of my surroundings. It’s a very calming experience, and I guess it is not a stretch to say I feel as though I am one with nature. I feel absolutely amazing when I’m there.

    I guess to wrap up, I would say this garden is much more than just a place. It is an escape from ordinary life and I am very happy it has become an integral part of my routine.

  • 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 144: An event or ceremony most people go through in your culture🪔

    Here is the Part 2 cue card we are working with this week:

    Describe an event or ceremony most people go through in your culture. You should say:
    -what the event or ceremony is
    -when people usually experience it
    -how it affects people
    and explain your opinion about it

    Step 1: Listen to the model response.

    Step 2: Tune in to this week’s podcast episode and practise saying some of the sentences from the response.

    Step 3: Work through the full exercise.

    Step 4: Read through the full transcript (below) and note any of the language items you found challenging this week.

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

    Chat on WhatsApp

    Transcript

    Describe an event or ceremony most people go through in your culture. You should say:
    -what the event or ceremony is
    -when people usually experience it
    -how it affects people
    and explain your opinion about it

    I’d like to talk about the traditional ceremony of Diwali, which is widely celebrated in my culture.

    Typically, Diwali falls in October or November, depending on the lunar calendar. The festival lasts for five days, with the main day being marked by the lighting of oil lamps and candles. We do this to symbolise the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil.

    Diwali has a profound impact on people in my culture. It is a time when families come together and adorn their houses with colourful decorations. This fosters a sense of unity and creates a positive and festive atmosphere. We also prepare sweet and savory dishes and exchange gifts to promote goodwill among friends and neighbours.

    On a deeper level, Diwali holds cultural and spiritual significance. The rituals and prayers performed during the festival are believed to bring prosperity and good fortune. The symbolic significance of light dispelling darkness encourages introspection and pushes people to make positive changes in their life.

    In my opinion, Diwali is not just a festival. It is a reflection of our cultural values and traditions. It brings joy and happiness to people’s lives, fostering a sense of belonging and community. The rituals associated with Diwali, such as lighting lamps and offering prayers, instill a sense of spirituality and mindfulness. Moreover, the emphasis on charity during Diwali encourages people to share their prosperity with those less fortunate. I believe that such traditions are essential in preserving the richness of our cultural heritage and promoting values that carry on for multiple generations.

  • Lesson 143: Video games🎮

    A candidate reported being asked about ‘video games’ in a recent IELTS Speaking exam. This week, you will practise speaking about this topic.

    Step 1: Listen to the full sample. At this stage of the lesson, try to listen only and avoid referring to the transcript.

    Step 2: Listen to this week’s podcast episode and work through the short preview ‘repeat after me’ lesson.

    Step 3: Below is the full lesson. Maintain an active mindset as you work through this exercise. Note words, phrases or full sentences that you find difficult to pronounce and review these areas over the coming few days.

    Step 4: Now that you have actively listened to the sample and worked through the full exercise, read the below transcript and note any language items you still find challenging. Review the notes you’ve made in your journal regularly and make a conscious effort to include these areas in your own day-to-day speaking. Remember that it can be helpful to repeat the shadowing exercise from time to time to help maintain and reinforce the language you have learned today.

    Step 5: Your instructor will be posting a daily speech exercise to your Whatsapp group between Monday and Friday of this week. Practise the sample thoroughly and then post your own speaking sample. Make special note of the feedback the instructor returns to you.

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    Transcript

    Do you work or are you a student?

    I’m a student pursuing a bachelor’s degree in computer science at the University of Lisbon.

    Do you play video games?

    Yes, I do enjoy playing video games. I find it’s a fantastic way to unwind and relax.

    What kind of games do you play?

    I have an eclectic taste in games, but I particularly enjoy strategic and simulation games. Titles like Civilization VI and Cities: Skylines are among my favourites.

    Do you have friends who are also into gaming?

    Yes. We regularly get together for multiplayer sessions and enjoy friendly competition.

    What types of games do you usually play with your friends?

    We typically engage in cooperative games or team-based multiplayer games. Games like Among Us or Overwatch are popular choices with us because these games can be played in less than 20 minutes and they allow us to work together as a team.

    Do you enjoy watching others play video games, like in live streams or gaming videos?

    Yes, I find it quite entertaining. It’s a great way to learn new strategies, discover hidden game features, and also enjoy the unique personalities of the content creators. However, I’m very busy with my studies these days, so I don’t tend to watch these types of videos very often.

    How much time do you typically spend gaming in a week?

    I try to strike a balance between my academic responsibilities and leisure activities. On average, I spend maybe five hours a week gaming. It serves as a rewarding break from my studies and allows me to stay connected with friends who share similar interests.

    Thank you.

  • Lesson 142: Children and change👦

    This week’s lesson explores the topic of ‘children and change’. This exercise uses an IELTS Speaking Part 3 model.

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

    Step 2: In this week’s episode of IELTSCast, you will practise saying the response to the first two questions.

    Step 3: Now that you have worked through the target language several times, try the full ‘repeat after me’ lesson.

    Step 4: Reread the transcript below and note any and all new or challenging language in your notebook. A key follow-up step over the next few weeks is to attempt to use this language in your own day-to-day speaking.

    Step 5: Complete the speaking exercises in your private Whatsapp group. Listen to the feedback you get from your instructor.

    Chat on WhatsApp

    Transcript

    Do you think children generally find it difficult to accept change?

    I guess it depends on the nature of the change and a child’s individual temperament. In my view, the unfamiliarity of new situations can make major changes very difficult to accept for most children.

    In your opinion, is a change of routine good for children?

    Yes, I believe a change of routine can be beneficial for children. It exposes them to different experiences, which fosters adaptability and crucial life skills such as problem-solving. However, the key lies in maintaining a balance because too much change too quickly might overwhelm a child.

    Do you think it takes a long time for children to adjust to a new school?

    The time it takes for children to adjust to a new school can vary significantly. Some children may adapt quickly, forming new friendships and becoming acclimatised within a short period. Others may require more time, especially if they face challenges in establishing connections or adapting to a different academic curriculum.

    What factors might influence their adjustment process?

    Several factors can influence a child’s adjustment to a new school. The support system at home, including the involvement of parents and the overall family environment, plays a crucial role. Additionally, the school’s atmosphere, the friendliness of classmates and the effectiveness of teachers in facilitating integration can significantly impact a child’s ability to adjust.

    Do you believe that children never fully adjust to moving to a new place?

    While it may take time, I believe most children do eventually adjust to moving to a new place. Children are remarkably resilient, and with the right support, they can adapt successfully. The adjustment process might differ for each child, but with time, most children can overcome the challenges associated with relocating.

    Can frequent changes in a child’s life impact their development?

    Yes, frequent changes in a child’s life can indeed have an impact on their development. Consistent instability may lead to feelings of insecurity and anxiety, potentially affecting their emotional well-being. However, it’s essential to note that not all changes are detrimental. Adapting to different situations can also enhance a child’s problem-solving skills and resilience. Striking a balance and providing a stable foundation for children during periods of change is crucial to ensuring positive development outcomes.

    Thank you.

  • Lesson 141: Something you bought that you cannot live without💻

    We once again are examining a band 9 response to Part 2 of the IELTS Speaking exam. Below is the cue card that appears in this lesson:

    Describe something that you bought that you now cannot live without. You should say:
    -what it is
    -why you bought it
    -how often you use it
    and explain why you cannot live without it.

    Step 1: Listen to this week’s sample response. (There is a transcript below for you to refer to should you need it.)

    Step 2: Below is this week’s IELTSCast episode. This episode includes a portion of the full ‘repeat after me’ exercise with which you can do some speech training.

    Step 3: Now try the full speech shadowing lesson.

    Step 4: Read through the below transcript again. Clearly note any new language you come across in your journal and actively try to include this language in your own day-to-day speaking.

    Step 5: Post your speech samples to your Whatsapp group. Your instructor will provide you with feedback.

    Chat on WhatsApp

    Transcript

    Describe something that you bought that you now cannot live without. You should say:
    -what it is
    -why you bought it
    -how often you use it
    and explain why you cannot live without it.

    I’d like to talk about my indispensable MacBook Air. I bought it approximately two years ago when I was in dire need of a reliable and portable computer.

    I guess I would say the primary motivator for this purchase was my transition into a more digital-centric lifestyle. I mentioned before that I’m a marketing specialist and, in the wake of COVID, it quickly became apparent to me that I would need a lightweight and powerful laptop to work from both my home and my office. Even though it was quite expensive, I decided on the MacBook Air due to its impressive performance and excellent battery life.

    On average, I use my MacBook Air for at least six to eight hours every day. It has become an integral part of my daily routine, serving not only as a workstation but also as a hub for all of my professional communication.

    The reason I cannot imagine my life without this device is the seamless integration it provides into various aspects of my daily activities. For the projects I work on, it allows me to bring my creative marketing visions to life. I also use it for personal endeavours. For example, I use it to stay in touch with friends and I often use it to order items from Amazon. It is for these reasons the device has become an irreplaceable tool in my life.

    My MacBook Air is an investment that not only met but exceeded my expectations. Its role in my daily activities has become so significant that I honestly cannot imagine navigating through life without it.

  • Lesson 140: Quiet places and sunglasses🕶️

    This week we are examining an IELTS Speaking Part 1 response that switches from the topic of ‘quiet places’ to the topic of ‘sunglasses’.

    Step 1: As always, the first step is to listen to the model. Do your best to note any new language you come across and any areas you are unsure about. (Remember there is always a full transcript at the bottom of these lessons!)

    Step 2: Now that you are familiar with the sample, listen to this week’s IELTSCast episode. This will give you a small preview lesson with which to train your speaking about this week’s topics:

    Step 3: As always, your task is to now make it through the longer FULL exercise. Remember that a key step here is to note all new language in your journal to ensure you are able to review it later and include it in your own day-to-day conversations. (If you do not yet have access to these full lessons, click here.)

    Step 4: Review the below transcript again and post any questions you have about this week’s lesson as comment.

    Step 5: In your Whatsapp group, practise saying some of the sentences from the response. Your instructor will give you feedback on how to improve your clarity and pronunciation.

    Transcript

    Are you currently working or are you a student?

    I am currently employed as a marketing specialist for a technology company. I have been working in this role for the past three years.

    Do you prefer working in a crowded place or a quiet one?

    Personally, I thrive in a quieter work environment. I find that I can concentrate better and be more productive when there are fewer distractions.

    Do you like spending your vacations or holidays in crowded or quiet places?

    I tend to lean towards quieter destinations when it comes to vacations. The peacefulness of open landscapes and the chance to unwind away from the hustle and bustle of daily life are appealing to me. I can’t imagine experiencing the same level of relaxation in a crowded city.

    Let’s talk about sunglasses. Do you often wear sunglasses?

    I make it a habit to wear sunglasses, especially during the sunny seasons. Not only do they provide protection against harmful UV rays, but they also help reduce glare. Additionally, I see sunglasses as a fashion accessory, and I often choose a pair that complements my style.

    Should people be encouraged to wear sunglasses?

    Absolutely. I believe people should be encouraged to wear sunglasses, not just as a fashion statement but also for the health benefits. Prolonged exposure to the sun’s UV rays can lead to various eye conditions, and wearing sunglasses is a simple and effective way to get long-term protection of one’s eyes.

    Have you ever bought sunglasses for someone else?

    Yes, I have. On a couple of occasions, I have purchased sunglasses as gifts for friends and family. I believe it’s a thoughtful present, and I make sure to consider the recipient’s style and preferences when selecting a pair. It’s a practical yet stylish gift and it’s a great choice for people that are hard to buy gifts for.

    Thank you.

  • Lesson 139: Complaints☹️

    This week you will learn to speak about a topic that comes up on the IELTS every few years…complaining! Specifically: how and why do people complain?

    Step 1: Listen to the full model. Note any new language you come across. Remember that a complete transcript can be found at the bottom of this blog post.

    Step 2 (free): Listen to this week’s IELTSCast episode to get a sample of the ‘repeat after me’ exercise. Do the exercise multiple times until you can recite the language accurately from memory:

    Step 3 (‘Access Full Lessons‘): Below is the full speech shadowing exercise. (Click here to sign up if you do not yet have access.) Push yourself to mimic the language as closely as you can. Note small things, even subtle differences in the way your mouth and throat feel as you produce the language:

    Step 4 (‘Join a Whatsapp Group): Post your speech sample to your Whatsapp group. If you haven’t yet been added to a group, email me! ryan@ieltsielts.com

    Transcript:

    What do people usually complain about in public places?

    In public places, people commonly complain about inadequate facilities, poor sanitation, noise levels and overcrowding.

    When people complain, do they usually do it verbally or in writing?

    I think it depends on the situation and size of the problem. For smaller nuisances, verbal communication seems to be more prevalent. People tend to voice their concerns directly to the relevant authorities or service providers, perhaps to get an immediate response. I think written complaints would be more common for complex or ongoing issues, such as noise coming from a construction site.

    Do you think social media has changed the way people complain about services or products?

    Oh yes, it certainly has. Platforms like Twitter and Facebook allow individuals to voice their concerns instantly and to a broad audience. This not only puts pressure on businesses to address issues promptly but also empowers consumers by providing a public forum for expressing dissatisfaction. This new way to complain did not exist 30 years ago.

    Do you think it is important for businesses to address customer complaints?

    Absolutely. Resolving complaints fosters customer loyalty and enhances the company’s reputation. In today’s interconnected world, where information spreads rapidly, neglecting customer grievances can lead to a tarnished image and a loss of clientele.

    How do you think complaints should be handled to ensure customers are satisfied?

    I feel companies should first establish clear and accessible channels through which customers can express their concerns. Once a complaint is received, a prompt response acknowledging the issue is essential. Investigating the root cause is then necessary. Finally, offering a fair resolution helps to win back customer loyalty.

    When someone is complaining in an aggressive way, should they be punished?

    I guess it depends on the degree and nature of the aggression. Businesses should do what they can to de-escalate aggressive clients and deal with the cause of unhappiness. However, if the aggressive behaviour persists or starts to involve personal threats then I think the business has the right to refuse service or –in extreme circumstances– call the police.