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

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  • Lesson 128: Talking about projects at work🗂️

    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.

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    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.

  • Episode 127: An impactful book you read📕

    This week you are tasked with describing a book that you read that impacted you in some way. This is an IELTS Speaking Part 2 challenge, so you will be training to speak on your own for one to two minutes. Here is the cue card used in this lesson:

    Describe a book that had a significant impact on you. Please say:

    -What the book was about

    -When and where you read it

    -Why it had a significant impact on you

    -And say whether you would you recommend this book to others

    Step 1: Listen to the full sample.

    Step 2: Now listen to this week’s IELTSCast episode, where you’ll have a chance to practise saying some of the language in the sample.

    Step 3: Below is the full video lesson. Practise saying each of the sentences (and portions of the sentences) aloud to develop your intonation and fluency.

    Step 4: Read through the below transcript again. Do whatever is necessary to fully understand the text. (Any questions can be added as a comment reply to this lesson.)

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

    Chat on WhatsApp

    Transcript

    Describe a book that had a significant impact on you. Please say:

    -What the book was about

    -When and where you read it

    -Why it had a significant impact on you

    -And say whether you would you recommend this book to others

    A book that I found impactful is “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald. I first encountered this book during my university years while studying literature. It’s not very long, so I was able to read it in one afternoon in my university’s library.

    The book had a significant impact on me due to its themes and the portrayal of the characters’ aspirations and shortcomings, which I found very relatable. It delves into the lives of Jay Gatsby, a self-made millionaire who is known for his extravagant parties, and Nick Carraway, the narrator who becomes entangled in Gatsby’s world. I really enjoyed how the book uses a story to examine topics such as the elusive nature of happiness and the limits of wealth and opulence. For example, despite his wealth, Jay Gatsby is unable to change the past and rekindle his relationship with a woman named Daisy. This leaves him in a permanent state of sorrow and sets up other events in the story that provide a fascintating exploration of the complexities of human nature.

    I would definitely recommend “The Great Gatsby” to others. The novel’s timeless themes of wealth, aspiration, and the human desire for something more make it a captivating and thought-provoking read. It continues to resonate with readers of all generations, and I feel it invites them to reflect on their own ambitions and the meaning of success in the modern world.

  • Lesson 126: Your hometown and drinks🍵

    This week, you will train to speak about the topic of ‘drinks’.

    Step 1: Listen to the full sample response from start to finish.

    Step 2: Now listen to this week’s IELTSCast episode and practise the sample ‘repeat after me’ sentences from the model.

    Step 3: Complete the full video lesson here:

    Step 4: Read through the transcript below and note all new language in your notebook. Any questions can be posted here as a comment.

    Step 5: If you have been added to a Whatsapp group, submit this week’s speech exercises to your instructor.

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    Transcript

    Where you are from?

    I am originally from a picturesque town in the heart of England called Stratford-upon-Avon.

    Do you work or study?

    Currently, I am pursuing my studies. I am enrolled in a postgraduate programme in Environmental Science at a local university.

    What is your hometown like?

    Stratford-upon-Avon is a charming town with a rich history. It’s renowned as the birthplace of William Shakespeare and is known for its well preserved Tudor-style architecture. The town is nestled along the tranquil banks of the River Avon, and its cobblestone streets are lined with quaint shops and theaters.

    Do you enjoy living in your hometown?

    I absolutely adore living in my hometown. The blend of history, culture and the welcoming community makes it a delightful place to call home.

    How has your hometown changed over the years?

    Over the years, Stratford-upon-Avon has seen some positive changes. There has been an effort to preserve and restore historic buildings, which has boosted tourism. Additionally, the town has embraced more eco-friendly initiatives, promoting green spaces and sustainability.

    What kind of accommodation do most people in your hometown live in?

    The majority of residents in Stratford-upon-Avon live in traditional houses, often Tudor-style or Georgian architecture. However, there are also modern apartments and townhouses available.

    Let’s talk about drinks. What is your favourite drink?

    My favourite drink without a doubt is a well-brewed cup of Earl Grey tea. I take it with milk and find it to be soothing and refreshing.

    Did you prefer different drinks as a child?

    As a child, my preferences were quite different. I used to enjoy fruit juices and fizzy drinks, particularly orange juice and lemonade.

    Do you think it is important to drink lots of water?

    Yes, I firmly believe that staying hydrated is crucial for overall health. Water is essential for bodily functions, and it helps to maintain proper digestion, skin health and mental clarity.

  • Lesson 125: Traditional celebrations in the modern world🎏

    This week, you will train to speak about the subject of ‘celebrations’.

    Step 1: Start this week’s lesson by listening to the model response.

    Step 2: Now listen to this week’s podcast episode and practise saying a few sentences from the model.

    Step 3: For those with paid subscriptions, work through this week’s full exercise.

    Step 4: Read through the below transcript and note all new language you have experienced today in your notebook. Make an effort to use this language in your own day-to-day speaking.

    Step 5: Submit your speaking sample to your Whatsapp group. Allow 24 hours for a response.

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    Transcript

    In your culture, what are some traditional celebrations or events that are widely celebrated?

    In Indonesian culture, there are several traditional celebrations that hold significant importance. One of the most prominent festivals is the International Jazz Festival of Jakarta, which typically involves live performances by renowned jazz artists from around the world. Another noteworthy celebration is Independence Day, which provides an opportunity for the entire Indonesian community to come together. It is a time for family gatherings and various cultural activities.

    How have these traditional celebrations changed over the years?

    I think one of the most notable changes is the modernisation of customs and traditions. For instance, the International Jazz Festival of Jakarta has incorporated modern music technologies and global jazz trends into its performances. Independence Day has seen an increase in community engagement through social media and digital platforms.

    Do you think it’s important to preserve cultural traditions in today’s fast-paced world?

    Absolutely. I believe it’s essential to preserve cultural traditions in today’s fast-paced world. These traditions serve as a link to our heritage and help us maintain our cultural identity. Furthermore, cultural traditions often impart valuable life lessons, instill a sense of respect for diversity and foster a deep appreciation for our roots.

    Do you think celebrations and events have become more globalised in recent years?

    Yes, I do. With the advancement of technology and increased connectivity, the world has become a smaller place. As a result, people from different cultures and backgrounds have greater exposure to celebrations and events from around the globe, and this helps to highlight some common values between all cultures on Earth. For instance, Teachers’ Day is now celebrated in most countries around the world. This globalisation of celebrations can foster a sense of global unity among people from diverse backgrounds. While this global trend is positive in many ways, I think it’s also important to strike a balance between global influences and the preservation of local traditions.

    Thank you.

  • Lesson 124: A traditional celebration or event in your culture🌠

    This lesson pushes you to train to speak about culture. Work through the exercises and remember that you can always refer to the transcript if you need support. Here is the cue card seen in this exercise:

    Describe a traditional celebration or event in your culture. Please say:

    -what the event is

    -when and where it takes place

    -why it is important

    -and share your personal experiences or memories related to this celebration or event

    Step 1: Listen to this week’s full band 9 model Part 2 response.

    Step 2: Try this week’s podcast episode. The episode includes a few ‘repeat after me’ sentences from the full exercise.

    Step 3: Work your way through this week’s full exercise. The video contains prompts to help support you if you don’t catch everything that is said.

    Step 4: Read the below transcript. Do you understand every word and phrase? If not, be proactive. Post a comment. Check a dictionary. Make sure you note anything you learn in your journal.

    Step 5: When you are fully familiar with the language, complete this week’s speech samples and post them to your Whatsapp group.

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    Transcript

    Describe a traditional celebration or event in your culture. Please say:

    -what the event is

    -when and where it takes place

    -why it is important

    -and share your personal experiences or memories related to this celebration or event

    I’d like to talk about a traditional celebration in my culture, which is known as Eid al-Fitr. Eid al-Fitr is one of the most significant and widely celebrated festivals in Indonesia, marking the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting.

    The exact date of Eid al-Fitr varies each year based on the Islamic lunar calendar, and it’s a nationwide celebration in Indonesia. Families and communities come together to observe this festive occasion.

    The importance of Eid al-Fitr in Indonesian culture is immense. It signifies the spiritual and personal growth achieved during Ramadan. People focus on prayer, self-reflection and acts of charity, and the holiday is considered a time when families and friends come together to celebrate and strengthen their bonds. Additionally, it’s customary to carry out almsgiving to help those in need, ensuring that everyone can join in the celebrations.

    Personally, Eid al-Fitr holds a special place in my heart as well. I have fond memories of the preparations leading up to the festival. My family and I would start by cleaning our house, purchasing new clothes and preparing delicious traditional dishes. On the morning of Eid, we would attend a special prayer at the mosque, after which we would visit relatives and neighbours to exchange warm greetings and small gifts.

    To my mind, this festival exemplifies the rich cultural diversity and religious traditions of Indonesia and remains a vibrant and meaningful celebration in the country.

    Thank you.

  • Lesson 123: Meeting new people and making friends🫂

    ‘People’ is a very common general topic on the IELTS, and this week you will train to speak more clearly about it. This is a IELTS Speaking Part 1 exercise.

    Step 1: Listen to the full model. (By the way, if you didn’t know, all of these exercises are scripted at the band 9 level by practising examiners.)

    Step 2: This week’s podcast episode gives you the opportunity to practise saying a few lines from the sample. Remember to push yourself to sound as much like the model as possible.

    Step 3: Find 21 minutes to complete the full exercise. It can be helpful to revisit these exercises from time to time, too. (Click here if you do not yet have access to these full lessons.)

    Step 4: Look at the below transcript. Are there language items that are new to you? Did you have any particular challenges saying parts of the response? Note all of this in your journal.

    Step 5: Complete all five of this week’s speech samples and submit them to your instructor for feedback.

    Transcript

    Do you work or study?

    I’m a full-time university student, studying Business Management.

    What do you like to do in your free time?

    I enjoy reading, playing the guitar and staying active by going for walks and doing yoga.

    Do you enjoy meeting new people?

    Yes, I do. Meeting new people broadens my horizons and allows me to learn from their experiences.

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

    I find it easiest to make friends with people who share similar interests and values. When we have common hobbies or beliefs, it provides a strong foundation for building a meaningful connection. Additionally, those who are open-minded, friendly and good listeners tend to be the people I naturally click with.

    Where is a good place to meet new people?

    There are several great places to meet new people, but I think community events and social gatherings are excellent opportunities. Whether it’s a local festival, a charity event or even a hobby club, these settings tend to attract like-minded individuals who are open to socialising and making new friends.

    In what situations is it difficult to make new friends?

    It can be challenging to make new friends when people are busy with work or studies. Also, in larger cities like Jakarta, busy lifestyles and cultural differences can make it harder to establish connections with strangers.

    Thank you.

  • Lesson 122: Board games and society🃏

    This is a lesson that trains you for Part 3 of the exam. In this lesson, you will examine the subject of ‘board games’ from a functional point of view.

    Part 1: Listen to the sample. There may be new words or phrases in this model, so try listening several times before consulting the below transcript.

    Part 2: The free podcast episode gives you a few ‘repeat after me’ sentences to start with. Work through this exercise to warm up for the longer, full exercise in Step 3.

    Part 3: Now try the full version of this exercise. Remember that it can be helpful to do these exercises more than once to help refine your pacing, intonation and overall accent.

    Part 4: Read through the below transcript. You could consider even printing it out to allow you to identify areas you want to target/review down the road. If you have any questions about the model, please post them as a comment on this lesson.

    Part 5: Complete all five of this week’s speaking exercises in your Whatsapp group. Your instructor will provide you feedback on each speaking sample within 24 hours of you sending it.

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    Transcript

    Why do you think games are popular at social gatherings and family events?

    I think they are popular because of their ability to foster a sense of camaraderie and engagement. They act as icebreakers, encouraging people to interact and bond over shared experiences…thereby breaking any initial awkwardness. Furthermore, games inject an element of fun and excitement into these gatherings, making them enjoyable for everyone involved.

    In what ways do games contribute to improving social skills and communication among people?

    I would say games encourage effective verbal and non-verbal communication, as players must explain rules and strategies. This enhances interpersonal communication skills by encouraging people to speak clearly and listen actively. Games also often involve teamwork and collaboration, which fosters a sense of cooperation and trust among participants. I would say these are the main ways in which games improve a person’s social skills.

    Some people argue that board games can be educational. What are your thoughts on this?

    I wholeheartedly agree with the notion that board games can be highly educational. Board games often incorporate various cognitive skills, including critical thinking, problem solving and strategic planning, and they often are explicitly designed for educational purposes, covering topics such as mathematics, history and language acquisition. For example, my nephew’s geography improved dramatically while playing the game Risk, which involves intercontinental battle between players on a world map.

    What types of board games do you believe will be popular in the future?

    Hmm I imagine future board games will integrate augmented reality or even virtual reality. Additionally, I think games could do a lot to promote themes of social responsibility, such as the importance of sustainability and environmental awareness. Ultimately, the future of board games will likely be shaped by the evolving interests and values of society, but I don’t think they’ll ever lose their appeal as a source of social interaction and entertainment.

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

  • Lesson 121: A memorable game🎲

    This week’s lesson is for Part 2 of the IELTS Speaking exam. It examines the topic of a game that is memorable for you. Here is the cue card that is used:

    Describe a tabletop game or other game you have played. You should say:
    What the game was
    Who you played it with
    Where and when you played it
    And explain why it was a memorable game for you.

    Part 1: Listen to the model and make special note of any new language you come across. Try to listen without looking at the transcript to check how much of the language you understand or can interpret from context. If you still have some trouble understanding after listening several times, consult the below transcript and identify the challenging areas.

    Part 2: This to this week’s IELTSCast episode and practise saying a few of the lines from the response.

    Part 3: Below is the full exercise for this week. Work through this exercise to refine your speaking. These exercises can be long and challenging, and results may seem to take time, but remember that incremental progress occurs with each repeated phrase. Push yourself to sound as much like the model as you can.

    Part 4: Read through the transcript. If there are still areas that you find challenging (pronunciation, grammar, vocabulary use, etc), leave a comment asking for further explanation or support.

    Part 5: Post this week’s speaking samples to your Whatsapp group. Your instructor will provide you with personalized feedback.

    Chat on WhatsApp

    Transcript

    Describe a tabletop game or other game you have played. You should say:
    What the game was
    Who you played it with
    Where and when you played it
    And explain why it was a memorable game for you.

    I’d like to share an experience I had playing a tabletop game called ‘Settlers of Catan.’ It was an incredibly memorable game for me, not only because of the game itself but also because of the people I played it with and the setting in which it took place.

    Settlers of Catan is a strategic board game that revolves around resource management and negotiation. It’s designed for three to four players, and each player assumes the role of a settler on the fictional island of Catan. The objective of the game is to build settlements, roads and cities while trading resources like wood, brick, ore, wheat and sheep with other players.

    I played this game with three close friends of mine – Sarah, Mark and James. We decided to have a game night at my apartment during summer vacation last year. It was a relaxing atmosphere, with dimmed lights and our favourite snacks and drinks within reach. We started the game just as the sun was setting, so the room was warm with the setting sunlight.

    What made this game so memorable for me was the intense competition and the genuine laughter it brought about. As the game progressed, we found ourselves making strategic alliances and clever trades, which sometimes led to unexpected betrayals and shifting alliances.

    Moreover, it was memorable because it allowed us to bond on a deeper level. We shared stories, exchanged banter, and had moments of genuine teamwork and rivalry. As the night turned into morning, we finally declared a winner, but it didn’t really matter who won or lost. What mattered was the quality time we spent together.

  • Lesson 120: Your study habits📚

    This Part 1 exercise shows you how to introduce yourself in IELTS Speaking. You will also examine a very common topic on the IELTS: your studies. As you can see, the candidate reports themselves to be a student and the examiner then asks questions pertaining to how the candidate studies and where the candidate most effectively studies.

    Step 1: Listen to the full sample to familiarise yourself with the language. At this point in the lesson, try to listen without looking at the transcript. Listening more than once is recommended.

    Step 2: Tune in to this week’s episode of IELTSCast. In this episode, you will have the opportunity to practise a few of the sentences from the response. Push yourself to sound as much like the model as possible.

    Step 3: Below is the full exercise. (If you do not yet have access to these exercises, click here to sign up.) Remember to note in your journal any challenging areas and/or new language you come across.

    Step 4: Read through the below transcript. Note any areas that you would like to review in the future. It can be helpful to print these transcripts out and attach them into your journal for future review.

    Step 5: Complete all of this week’s speech samples. Submit them to your instructor through Whatsapp and wait for feedback.

    Chat on WhatsApp

    Transcript

    Can you tell me your full name, please?

    Of course, my full name is Ryan Higgins.

    What should I call you?

    You can just call me Ryan.

    Where are you from?

    I’m originally from a suburb of Bangkok in Thailand.

    Do you work or are you a student?

    I’m currently a student here in Liverpool. I’m pursuing my economics degree at the University of Liverpool.

    Where do you typically do your studying?

    I usually study in the university library, as it provides a quiet environment for concentration. Occasionally, I also study in my dorm room to change things up.

    Do you find it easier to study in certain environments?

    Yes, I definitely find it easier to study in quiet environments like the library or my dorm room. I find that the absence of distractions allows me to focus better on my studies and be more productive.

    What do you do on weekday evenings?

    On weekday evenings, I usually follow a routine that balances relaxation and productivity. I spend a few hours studying or working on assignments, and then I like to unwind by going for a jog or practicing some mindfulness exercises. Afterwards, I often enjoy a good book or catch up with friends over a video call to wind down before bedtime.

  • Lesson 119: Cybersecurity🛡️

    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.