Access more IELTS resources at the website! https://ieltsielts.com/ 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.

Visit the blog! https://ieltsielts.com/ Get full lessons! https://www.youtube.com/c/IELTSRyan/join 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.

Visit the blog! https://ieltsielts.com/ Get full lessons! https://www.youtube.com/c/IELTSRyan/join 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.

The new website is up! https://ieltsielts.com/ Sign up for full lessons! https://www.youtube.com/c/IELTSRyan/join Describe an event in your life that changed it in a positive way. You should say: -what the event was -when it happened -how it changed your life and explain why this change was positive for you Well, I would have to say my decision to learn a new language changed my life in a positive way. This significant turning point occurred around three years ago during my summer break. I had always been intrigued by the different cultures of Spanish-speaking people, so deciding to study Spanish was a natural choice for me. The journey began with enrolling in an intensive language course and immersing myself in Spanish literature and media. Doing these two things helped me to improve my understanding and abilities rapidly. I'll now speak about the multifaceted ways in which studying Spanish impacted my life. Firstly, the mental challenge of mastering a new language stimulated my cognitive abilities and significantly improved my memory and problem-solving skills. Moreover, the decision to learn Spanish opened up a world of cultural richness - exciting literature, films and music. I also found myself connecting both in-person and online with a global community of language learners, and this was extremely rewarding. The most significant change, however, was the unexpected boost it gave to my career. The ability to speak Spanish fluently became a valuable skill, and it opened up new job opportunities for me in Europe, the Americas and even Asia. Today, my work involves facilitating trade between my country and Spanish speaking countries. It's an extremely rewarding role that I wouldn't have been capable of doing otherwise. In summary, the decision to learn a new language, Spanish in particular, was a transformative event that positively influenced various aspects of my life.

Sign up for FULL lessons! https://www.youtube.com/c/IELTSRyan/join Visit my blog! https://ieltsielts.com/ Do you think the dishes people cook are influenced by the agriculture of their region? Absolutely. The availability of certain crops and livestock shapes the culinary traditions of a place. For example, in regions where rice cultivation is prevalent, you'll find a rich variety of rice-based dishes, and the same is true in regions where wheat is the more common grain. How important do you think agriculture is in your country? It's definitely important in China. Agriculture not only provides sustenance to the vast population but also contributes significantly to the national economy. I would also say a lot of our cultural identity is closely tied to traditional farming practices and the cuisines these practices produce. Can agriculture be improved by technology? Yes, I believe it can. Technology can significantly enhance efficiency, yield and sustainability in agriculture. Modern irrigation systems and genetically modified crops are just a few examples of how technology can increase productivity. By integrating these innovations, agriculture can meet the demands of the world's growing population. Are there any negative impacts of using technology in agriculture? One concern is the over-reliance on certain technologies, which may lead to environmental degradation. Additionally, the high cost of advanced equipment can create economic disparities among farmers. Striking a balance between technological progress and sustainable practices is crucial to mitigate these negative impacts. How do you think technology in agriculture affects the environment? The impact of technology on the environment in agriculture is a double-edged sword. On the one hand, precision farming and efficient resource management can minimise water and chemical usage. On the other hand, technologies that enhance the spraying of pesticides, for example, can cause harm to ecosystems. Striking a harmonious balance between technology and nature is thus essential to ensure a sustainable future.

Describe someone who loves cooking. You should say: -who this person is -what kinds of dishes they usually cook -who they usually cook for And explain why you think this person enjoys cooking so much I would like to talk about my aunt, Lauren, who is an ardent lover of cooking. She is a middle-aged woman with a passion for culinary arts that is truly inspiring. Auntie Lauren is an exceptional cook and her culinary skills encompass a wide range of dishes from various cuisines. However, her specialty lies in preparing exquisite Italian dishes, particularly pasta and homemade pizzas. The aroma of her cooking often fills the entire house, creating an inviting atmosphere that captivates everyone's senses. Most frequently, she dedicates her culinary expertise to her immediate family – her husband and three children. Sunday dinners at her house have become a cherished tradition, with family members eagerly anticipating anything she prepares. The reason behind Auntie Lauren's unwavering love for cooking can be attributed to her belief that food has the power to bring people together. I think for her, cooking is a form of expression, a way to show love and care for those around her. Furthermore, my aunt once told me she views cooking as a therapeutic activity, a creative outlet through which she can experiment with flavours. She takes great pleasure in the entire process – from selecting the freshest ingredients to meticulously crafting each dish with precision and passion. In conclusion, my aunt is a remarkable individual who loves cooking not only for the sheer joy it brings her but also as a means to connect with others.

Sign up! https://www.youtube.com/c/IELTSRyan/join Do you work or are you a student? I'm currently a student. What do you study? I'm pursuing a degree in Environmental Science. Let's talk about noise. Would you describe yourself as a noisy person? No, I wouldn't say I'm a noisy person at all. I generally prefer a calm and quiet environment. In what situations does noise bother you? I find noise particularly bothersome when I'm trying to concentrate, especially while studying or working on important tasks. It can be quite distracting. Do you like to listen to loud music? Occasionally...yes, I do. However, I prefer it at a moderate volume. I find it more enjoyable, and it doesn't disturb others around me. How do you feel about noise in your living environment? I value a peaceful living environment. Excessive noise can be disruptive to both relaxation and productivity. I believe in maintaining a balance to ensure a harmonious atmosphere. Do you think cities are becoming noisier? Absolutely. It's evident that urban areas are experiencing an increase in noise levels. Factors like traffic, construction and a faster-paced lifestyle contribute to the overall rise in noise pollution. It's a concerning trend that impacts the quality of life for many city dwellers.

Join for full lessons! https://www.youtube.com/c/IELTSRyan/join Get the FREE newsletter! https://www.ieltsielts.com/ We've been talking about helping others, and I would like to ask you a few more questions about this topic. Do you like to help others? Absolutely. I find great satisfaction in contributing to the well-being of others, be it in small everyday gestures or more significant acts of kindness. How can children help their parents? Children can contribute to their parents' well-being in various ways. Simple tasks like helping with household chores, such as tidying up their rooms or assisting with cooking, can make a significant difference. Additionally, showing appreciation and respect for their parents' efforts can create a positive and supportive family environment. Why do you think some children don't like helping their parents? I guess one reason for this reluctance might be the age and developmental stage of the child. Younger children might not fully comprehend the value of helping, while teenagers may be preoccupied with academic or social pressures. Moreover, the way parents approach and encourage their children can also influence their willingness to help. What are some ways in which children can help their classmates? Children can offer assistance academically, especially in subjects where they excel. Collaborative learning environments, group projects and encouraging teamwork can enhance the overall learning experience for everyone involved. Should children do volunteer work? I think volunteer work can be highly beneficial for children. It not only instills a sense of social responsibility but also helps develop empathy and compassion. Furthermore, volunteering exposes children to diverse experiences and communities, which broadens their perspective of the world. Is volunteering beneficial for young people? It certainly is. Volunteering provides young people with valuable life skills, such as teamwork, communication and problem-solving. It also cultivates a sense of civic duty and a heightened awareness of societal issues. I feel it also pushes young people to develop as responsible and compassionate individuals, preparing them to face the challenges of the wider world.

Subscribe for full lessons! https://www.youtube.com/c/IELTSRyan/join Describe a person who lives in your area and always offers a helping hand to others. You should say -who this person is -how he/she helps others -why he/she does it And explain how you feel about this person I'd like to talk about a remarkable individual in my community who consistently extends a helping hand to others – Mrs. Smith. She is a retired school teacher in her late 60s and she and I have resided in the same neighbourhood for the past three decades. Mrs. Smith's helpfulness is evident in many ways, but her most notable contribution is in tutoring local children after school hours. She voluntarily dedicates a few hours each day to assist students with their homework and provide additional support in subjects they find challenging. Furthermore, she has established a small community library in her home, where she lends books to children who may not have access to such resources otherwise. The driving force behind Mrs. Smith's generous actions is her unwavering belief in the transformative power of education. Having spent the majority of her life as an educator, she is passionate about ensuring that every child in our community has the opportunity to succeed academically. Personally, I am deeply inspired by Mrs. Smith's dedication and kindness. Witnessing her commitment to the community has instilled a sense of communal responsibility within me. Her selflessness serves as a reminder that even small acts of kindness can have a profound impact on the lives of those around us. Mrs. Smith is an exemplary figure in our community, and I feel fortunate to know such a compassionate and community-minded person.

For full exercises: https://www.youtube.com/c/IELTSRyan/join Do you work or study? Currently, I study marketing at a college in this city. Why did you choose to study this subject? I chose to study marketing because of its dynamic nature and its direct relevance to my career goals. The field allows me to combine creativity with strategic thinking, providing a perfect fit for my aspirations. Let’s talk about rain. Does it rain much in your city? In Rome, we experience moderate rainfall, particularly during the spring and fall seasons. The rain contributes to the city's greenery and maintains a pleasant climate. Would you most like to live in a place that is dry or wet? I prefer a place with a balanced climate. Moderate rainfall adds to the environmental diversity and creates a pleasant atmosphere. Would you change your plans if it rained outside? Weather conditions do influence my plans to some extent. Heavy rain might prompt me to reconsider outdoor activities. However, a light drizzle usually doesn't deter me from my plans. Let’s talk about health. Is it easy to stay healthy in your country? Yes, it is generally easy to maintain good health in Italy. Access to healthcare facilities, a variety of fresh and nutritious foods, and a cultural emphasis on physical activity contribute to an environment conducive to overall well-being. How do you maintain your physical health? I prioritise physical health through a combination of regular exercise and a balanced diet. Engaging in activities like jogging and incorporating a variety of fruits, vegetables and lean proteins into my diet ensures that I stay fit and energetic. Do you have a favourite exercise? Indeed, my favourite exercise is yoga. I find it not only physically beneficial but also mentally rejuvenating. The rhythmic nature of yoga allows me to unwind and stay physically active, contributing to a holistic sense of well-being.

Join for FULL exercises! https://www.youtube.com/c/IELTSRyan/join Do you think nowadays young people have to become independent at a younger age compared to the past? Absolutely. In contemporary society, the pace of life has accelerated, and this has required young people grow up faster than in previous generations. The job market is more competitive and demands young profesionals demonstrate autonomy and self-reliance. For example, people switch career paths way more now than they did in the past, and this requires people be more self-reliant and less dependent on a long-term employer. How does moving out of the family home contribute to a young person's sense of independence? Moving out is a pivotal step towards autonomy. It exposes individuals to the complexities of managing a household, handling bills and making decisions independently. Living away from the family provides a platform for personal growth, encouraging individuals to confront challenges, solve problems and build resilience. What responsibilities do young adults typically face when they move out of their parents' home? Young adults take on a spectrum of responsibilities when they move out. Managing finances, such as rent, utilities and daily expenses, becomes a central concern. Household chores, meal planning and even addressing unforeseen issues require consistent attention. I would even include things like taking on responsibility for personal health. How can financial challenges impact a young person's ability to live independently? Financial challenges can be a substantial hurdle. Limited financial resources may hinder the person's ability to secure stable housing or afford basic necessities. This, in turn, can lead to increased stress and other health problems that might aggravate financial issues further. Do you think moving out affects the relationship between parents and their children? In what ways? Undoubtedly, moving out reshapes the parent-child dynamic. While physical distance may initially strain the relationship, it also provides an opportunity for a more mature and egalitarian connection. Both parties learn to appreciate each other's perspectives, and the relationship transforms into one built on mutual respect and understanding. The periodic reunions become cherished moments, fostering a deeper and more evolved bond between parents and their independent children.

Join for full lessons! https://www.youtube.com/c/IELTSRyan/join Talk about someone you know who has moved to a new accommodation. You should say: -who this person is -when they moved -where they moved and explain whether or not the move has had a positive impact on them I'd like to talk about a colleague of mine named Emily, who recently made a significant move to a new accommodation. Emily is a person I work with, and we've developed a friendship over the past few years. She decided to make this move about three months ago - I think it was about August of this year. This decision to move was primarily for career advancement and to be closer to our workplace, which is in the heart of the city. Before, she had been commuting for almost two hours daily! Emily's new accommodation is an apartment in a modern complex. The area is known for its vibrant community, diverse cultural amenities and convenient access to public transportation. The apartment itself is spacious, well-furnished and provides a stunning view of the city skyline. From what Emily has shared with me, the move has had an overwhelmingly positive impact on her life. Firstly, the reduction in commute time has allowed her to reclaim several hours each day, which she can now allocate to personal pursuits and relaxation. Moreover, the new neighbourhood has exposed her to a range of social activities and events, providing opportunities to meet new people and expand her social circle. So overall I would say Emily's recent move to a new accommodation has undeniably had a positive impact on her overall quality of life.

Sign up for full lessons! https://www.youtube.com/c/IELTSRyan/join Topics in this episode: Studying, work, friendship, computers, the zoo and drinks

Join this channel for FULL lessons: https://www.youtube.com/c/IELTSRyan/join Join my FREE newsletter! https://www.ieltsielts.com/ Transcript of the sample that is heard in this video: 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.

Join for FULL exercises! https://www.youtube.com/c/IELTSRyan/join Get the free newsletter! https://www.ieltsielts.com/ 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.

Join for FULL exercises! https://www.youtube.com/c/IELTSRyan/join Subscribe to this podcast on YouTube Music! https://music.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLB73A1B919925E02F&si=jdjlHDSKxPWU5lvg 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.

Please excuse the quality of my voice in this episode. I was a little sick.🤧 Get the FULL lessons! https://www.youtube.com/c/IELTSRyan/join 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.

Access FULL exercises at YouTube!👉 https://www.youtube.com/c/IELTSRyan/join 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.

Access FULL exercises at YouTube!👉 https://www.youtube.com/c/IELTSRyan/join 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.

Get FULL exercises! https://www.youtube.com/c/IELTSRyan/join 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. Read More Quick LinksGet Embed PlayerShare on SocialDownload Audio File  

Get full exercises! https://www.youtube.com/c/IELTSRyan/join 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.

#ESL Get FULL lessons! https://www.youtube.com/c/IELTSRyan/join 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.

Sign up for the FREE newsletter! https://www.ieltsielts.com/ 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.

#ielts #learnenglish Sign up for the FREE newsletter! https://www.ieltsielts.com/ Describe a time when you used an electronic device for some important work. You should say – what you did – when you did it – why you had to use your electronic device – and explain how you felt about this experience. I'd like to talk about a time when I used my laptop for an important task. About six months ago, I had to prepare a crucial presentation for my workplace. I work as a marketing manager in a multinational company, and this presentation was a key component of a pitch we were making to a potential client. I performed this task a day before the scheduled presentation. I remember it was a Sunday, and the presentation was to be held on Monday morning. I had known about the presentation for about a week in advance, but the busy nature of my job made it difficult to find time to work on the task. The reason I had to use my laptop was primarily for gathering data and creating visual aids. I relied heavily on my laptop to research the client's industry trends and their competitors' strategies, and to glean statistical data that could support our proposal. Additionally, I used presentation software on the device to design slides that would be both informative and visually appealing. Reflecting on this experience, I can say I felt a mixture of pressure, determination and gratitude. On one hand, I was aware of the significance of the presentation: it could potentially secure a lucrative deal for our company. On the other hand, the time constraint added an extra layer of stress that was honestly rather unpleasant. However, I embraced the challenge and saw it as an opportunity to showcase my skills and dedication. By the time I completed the presentation late into the night, I was not only proud of the outcome but also amazed at how much my device had helped to accelerate the task. I can't imagine how long a task like this would take without the support of a laptop!

Get the FREE newsletter! https://www.ieltsielts.com/ Here is a transcript of the model from this episode: #IELTS Where do you live? I currently reside in Frankfurt, which is located in Germany. It's a bustling city known for its diverse multicultural community. Do you work or are you a student? I'm a dedicated student at the University of Frankfurt, pursuing a degree in computer science. This academic journey is a vital step towards realising my passion for innovation in the technology sector. What is your favourite subject to study? Among the subjects I'm studying, I have a particular fondness for economics. Its intricate analysis of market dynamics and its impact on society intrigue me. I'm constantly motivated to delve deeper into the complexities of supply and demand, and how economic policies shape our world. You said that you are interested in technology, were you passionate about it from a young age? Yes, indeed. Since my childhood, I've harboured an unwavering fascination for technology. From experimenting with simple gadgets to immersing myself in programming, my passion for technology has been an integral part of my life's journey. What do you prefer to use, a tablet or a computer, and why? While both tablets and computers have their merits, I tend to gravitate towards computers. The robust processing power and versatile capabilities of a computer are indispensable for tasks such as software development and data analysis. Additionally, the ergonomic comfort of a full-sized keyboard and larger screen contribute to my productivity. When did you start using computers? My initiation into the world of computers began around the age of 10. It all started with basic operations and gradually expanded to more advanced functions and applications. Do you think spending a lot of time on a computer is useful? Spending a significant amount of time on a computer can indeed yield substantial benefits, provided it's approached with purpose and balance. Computers have revolutionised various domains, enabling efficient research, communication and innovation. However, it's imperative to strike a harmony between screen time and other aspects of a balanced life, such as physical activities and social interactions. This can help ensure a more holistic sense of well-being.

#IELTS #learnenglish Sign up for the FREE newsletter! https://www.ieltsielts.com/ Become a paid subscriber and get access to all videos! https://www.youtube.com/c/IELTSRyan/join Are there many types of houses in your country? In my country, there exists a rich history of architectural diversity, and this includes a number of different house types. These range from sprawling suburban houses with manicured lawns to compact urban apartments within towering skyscrapers. There are also traditional house types such as cottages, bungalows and villas. Are there any traditional houses that are still popular in your country? Can you describe them? Yes. Traditional houses still maintain their popularity in my country. The best example I can think of this is the "courtyard house," which is a blend of functionality and aesthetics. These houses typically feature an internal courtyard that serves as a hub for family gatherings and a source of natural light and ventilation. These house types include elaborate woodwork, intricate mosaic patterns and vibrant colours. How have the types of houses in your country changed over the years? Houses in my country have experienced significant evolution over the years. Urbanisation and globalisation have led to the rise of modern housing complexes and innovative designs, embracing minimalist aesthetics and energy-efficient features. Traditional houses have also changed. I find people are painting them in more brightly coloured shades than in the past, and it is not uncommon for people to install skylights to allow in natural sunlight. What is the difference between living in an old house compared to a new house? Living in an old house often fosters a connection to the past, offering a tangible link to history and nostalgia. These houses may boast intricate craftsmanship and unique detailing, yet they might lack the modern amenities and energy-efficient technologies that characterize new houses. Conversely, new houses offer advanced conveniences, efficient insulation, and sleek designs, but they may lack the charm and character inherent in older structures. For what reasons would you prefer to live in an old house or a new house? I would prefer to live in a new house. Old houses might resonate with those who value heritage and a sense of rootedness, but I find new houses appeal to those seeking contemporary comfort, innovative technologies and streamlined living arrangements. I feel more at ease and productive in well-designed newer homes. I think those would be the main reasons I would choose to live in a new house.

Sign up for the FREE newsletter! https://www.ieltsielts.com/ Do you work or study? I currently work as a retail sales associate for a well-known store in my city. Where do you work? I work at a hardware store that is located in the bustling commercial district of my city. What do you like about your work? Firstly, I love interacting with different customers daily and assisting them in finding products that suit their needs. It gives me great satisfaction to see customers leave the store happy with their purchases. Additionally, the retail industry allows me to stay updated with the latest trends and products, which aligns perfectly with my interest in home repairs and hobbyist activities. Moreover, the camaraderie among my colleagues creates a pleasant and supportive work environment, making each day enjoyable. What would make your work more interesting? While I find my work already fascinating, I believe it would become even more interesting with the implementation of regular training sessions. Learning about new sales techniques, customer service approaches and product knowledge would help me excel in my role and better serve our customers. Furthermore, having opportunities to attend industry events or participate in merchandising decisions would add a creative and dynamic aspect to my work, making it more engaging and fulfilling. Let’s talk about zoos. Have you ever been to a zoo? Yes, I have. There isn't a zoo in my city but I have driven to The Moscow Zoo several times, which is about 90 minutes away. I find zoos to be an enriching experience, offering a wonderful chance to observe and learn about various animal species from around the world. What wild animals are commonly found in your country? In Russia, we are fortunate to have diverse wildlife. Commonly found species include brown bears, wolves, reindeer, elk, and various bird species such as swans, hawks, and falcons. Our vast landscapes also host rare and endangered animals like Siberian tigers and snow leopards. I believe I saw all of these animals at the zoo I was mentioning before. What wild animal from another country would you like to see in the future? One wild animal from another country that I would love to see in the future is the graceful and elusive cheetah from Africa. Witnessing the fastest land animal in its natural habitat would be an extraordinary experience, and it would offer me a profound appreciation for wildlife preservation efforts across the globe.

Sign up for full 'repeat after me' lessons! https://www.youtube.com/c/IELTSRyan/join 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.

Sign up for FULL lessons! https://www.youtube.com/c/IELTSRyan/join Learn more about these lessons: https://youtu.be/eIX5y1Mq5hA Talk about an unusual meal you had. You should say – when you had it – where you had it – what kind of meal it was – and explain why it was unusual. I'd like to talk about a rather extraordinary meal I had during my trip to Japan last year. It was an unforgettable experience that took place in a traditional Japanese inn located in the quaint town of Takayama. The meal itself was a traditional Kaiseki dinner, which is a multi-course dining experience renowned for its artistic presentation and use of seasonal ingredients. The meal began with a series of beautifully arranged appetisers, which included some familiar items like sashimi and tempura. But as the courses progressed, I was introduced to a variety of uncommon dishes. One of the most peculiar delicacies was Hoba Miso, a regional specialty where miso paste, wild mushrooms, and vegetables were cooked over a magnolia leaf. The earthy aroma and rich flavours were unlike anything I had tasted before. Furthermore, the chef proudly served a platter which I believe was called Seki-saba, a local delicacy of fermented mackerel. While its intense pungent smell might have deterred some, I decided to embrace the experience fully. To my surprise, the taste was surprisingly complex and utterly delightful. Another dish that added to the uniqueness of the meal was Kuro-udon, which was black udon noodles made with bamboo charcoal. The dramatic colour contrast against the traditional white tableware was visually striking and added an artistic element to the dining experience. What truly made this meal unusual was the combination of the serene surroundings, the artistic presentation, and the rare ingredients. I unfortunately don't think I'll have an experience like this again anytime soon. Trying these unfamiliar and rare dishes opened my eyes to the vast diversity of Japanese cuisine and its strong connection to regional traditions and culture.

Get the full lessons! https://www.youtube.com/c/IELTSRyan/join Leave a 5 star review! (Thanks!) https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ieltscast-weekly-shadowing-exercises-for-ielts-speaking/id1070129363 Talk about a trustworthy person you know. You should say: -how you met this person -how long you've known this person -why you feel they are trustworthy and say what they did to gain your trust Well, I would like to talk about a person whom I consider to be extremely trustworthy. His name is John, and I first met him during my freshman year of college, which was about five years ago. To provide some background, John and I were assigned as roommates in the college dormitory. From the very beginning, he exhibited qualities that made me feel I could trust him completely. For example, during our first or perhaps second week of living as roommates, I accidentally misplaced my wallet containing important identification documents, credit cards and a considerable amount of cash. Naturally, I was overwhelmed and stressed, fearing the consequences of losing such crucial items. However, without any hesitation, John assured me that we would search for the wallet together. We retraced my steps meticulously and eventually found my wallet tucked away in a jacket pocket I had forgotten about. What truly touched me was John's selfless behavior throughout the process. We did not yet know each other very well, and he could have easily ignored my predicament or even taken advantage of the situation, but instead, he stood by me as a loyal friend. His commitment to helping me, without expecting anything in return, solidified my trust in him. Moreover, John's dedication to maintaining confidentiality further strengthens my belief in his trustworthiness. On numerous occasions, I have shared my personal struggles and concerns with him, knowing that he would keep them in utmost confidence.  In summary, through his consistent honesty, reliability and willingness to go above and beyond, John has proved himself to be an incredibly trustworthy person.

Sign up for the FREE newsletter! https://www.ieltsielts.com/ What kinds of TV shows do you find interesting? Personally, I find a wide range of TV shows interesting, but I am particularly drawn to thought-provoking documentaries and gripping crime dramas. Documentaries provide me with valuable insights into various subjects, expanding my knowledge and understanding of the world. On the other hand, crime dramas captivate me with their intricate plotlines and suspenseful storytelling. Why do TV shows resonate differently in different countries? TV shows resonate differently in different countries due to cultural, social, and historical factors. Each country has its unique values, traditions, and preferences, which influence the viewers' tastes and perceptions. Additionally, local TV shows often reflect the specific issues and concerns of a particular society, making them more relatable and engaging for the local audience. Thus, cultural context plays a vital role in shaping the resonance of TV shows in different countries. How are TV shows different from movies? TV shows differ from movies in several ways. Firstly, TV shows are typically episodic, consisting of multiple episodes that form a series and allow for character development and complex storylines. In contrast, movies are self-contained narratives presented within a limited timeframe. Secondly, TV shows have a longer duration, often spanning multiple seasons, while movies are typically confined to a single instalment. Additionally, TV shows have the flexibility to delve deeper into their narratives and explore diverse plotlines, whereas movies often focus on delivering a concise and compact story within a limited timeframe. Have TV shows from your country changed compared to the past? Yes, TV shows from my country have certainly changed compared to the past. In the past, there was a more limited variety of TV shows, with a heavy emphasis on traditional sitcoms, dramas, and news programmes. However, with advancements in technology and evolving viewer preferences, there has been a significant shift in content. Nowadays, we witness a surge in reality TV shows, talent competitions, and streaming platforms offering a wide range of genres and formats. This change has allowed for more diversity, creativity, and audience engagement in the television landscape of my country. Thank you. This marks the end of the speaking exam.

Get access to the full 'repeat after me' exercises directly through YouTube! Sign up here: https://www.youtube.com/c/IELTSRyan/join Talk about a TV show that is popular in your country. You should say -what show it is -what the show is about -why this show is popular in your country -how you feel about this TV show I would like to talk about a popular TV show in my country, the Philippines, called 'Brothers'. It is a widely acclaimed action-drama series that has garnered immense popularity among viewers nationwide. The show centers around the life of 'Cardo', a courageous police officer, as he fights crime and seeks justice in the bustling city of Manila. Brothers captivated audiences in the Philippines for several reasons. Firstly, the show offers a compelling narrative that combines elements of action, suspense, and heartfelt drama. Each episode presents a new challenge for Cardo, who fearlessly battles corrupt officials, criminal syndicates, and personal adversities. The series keeps viewers hooked with its fast-paced plotlines, intense action sequences, and emotional character arcs. Further, I think Brothers resonates with Filipino viewers due to its relatable themes and portrayal of societal issues. The show sheds light on the struggles faced by ordinary citizens, highlighting the complexities of urban life and the day-to-day challenges ordinary citizens face. It also captures the resilience and hard-working nature of the Filipino people, creating a strong emotional connection with local audiences as well as international audiences that are interested in Filipino pop culture.  The success of Brothers can also be attributed to the exceptional performances of the cast. For example, Coco Martin's portrayal of Officer Cardo has become iconic, earning him widespread praise for his dedication and versatility as an actor. Such performances as well as the show's gripping storyline are what kept me on the edge of my seat while I was watching the show, and I am thus hardly surprised that the show gained such legacy in my country. It is for these reasons that Brothers has secured itself as a significant part of the Filipino television landscape.

Get access to the full 'repeat after me' exercises directly through YouTube! Sign up here: https://www.youtube.com/c/IELTSRyan/join Where are you from? I am from a vibrant city called Abuja, which is the capital of Nigeria. It's a culturally rich place that attracts people and business from all around the world. Do you work or study? I currently work as a software engineer. After completing my degree in computer science, I joined a respected technology company where I have been working for the past three years. Where do you work? I work at XY Tech, a leading software development firm based in the heart of the city. It's a dynamic and innovative workplace with a strong emphasis on cutting-edge technologies. The company has a reputation for delivering high-quality software solutions to clients across various industries. Do you like your job? Absolutely. I truly enjoy my job as a software engineer. It provides me with the opportunity to work on fascinating projects and collaborate with talented individuals. I find the process of designing and developing software immensely satisfying, and the feeling of creating something that can make a real impact is truly rewarding. What are some of the benefits of doing this job? One of the major benefits of working as a software engineer is the continuous learning and growth opportunities. This job allows me to enhance my technical skills and expand my knowledge base, which is invaluable in today's rapidly changing world. Additionally, because software engineers are in high demand, the job offers a competitive salary and benefits package. I also have a very flexible work environment and the option to work remotely, which are perks I find appealing. Are there any areas where you would like your company to change? While I am quite satisfied with my current company, there are a few areas where I believe some improvements could be made. Firstly, I think it would be beneficial if the company invested more in professional development programmes and licensing opportunities. As I mentioned earlier, continuous learning is crucial in the technology field, and by providing employees with access to the latest courses and workshops, the company can ensure that its workforce remains highly skilled and up to date with emerging technologies. I would also appreciate a more structured approach to our meetings. I usually have several meetings a day and because there is no standard company structure for these meetings, we often go overtime or talk about the same topic multiple times. A standard structure would keep meetings more streamlined and productive. Aside from those items, I can't think of anything else I would change. Thank you.

Get access to full lessons! https://www.youtube.com/c/IELTSRyan/join 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.

Sign up for full lessons: https://www.youtube.com/c/IELTSRyan/join 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.

Get access to the full lessons here! https://www.youtube.com/c/IELTSRyan/join 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.

Get access to all lessons! https://www.youtube.com/c/IELTSRyan/join 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.

Join for full lessons at YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/c/IELTSRyan/join 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.

Describe a person who dresses well. You should say: -who the person is -how you know him or her -how often you see him or her -and explain why you think this person dresses well I would like to talk about my friend Jack who I believe has a great sense of fashion and dresses exceptionally well. Jack is a friend of mine from university, and we have known each other for over five years. We met during our freshman year, and since then we have been good friends. I see Jack quite often, as we are still in touch even after graduating from university. We usually hang out together every couple of weeks, and I always look forward to seeing him. The thing that sets Jack apart from others when it comes to fashion is his ability to mix and match different styles and create a unique look. He always seems to know what's trendy and fashionable, but he doesn't blindly follow trends. Instead, he adapts them to his own personal style and makes it work for him. He also pays attention to the little details, such as matching the colour of his shoes with his belt. Moreover, Jack's clothes are always well-fitted, which I think is crucial for a person to dress well. His outfits are neither too tight nor too loose, and they always seem to flatter his body type. He also experiments with different colours and patterns and manages to pull them off effortlessly. I think Jack dresses well because he has a great sense of style, pays attention to details, and knows how to dress for his body type. He inspires me to be more adventurous with my own fashion choices, and I'm always excited to see what he'll be wearing the next time we meet.

Thank you for leaving a 5 star review: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ieltscast-weekly-shadowing-exercises-for-ielts-speaking/id1070129363 Talk about a person you know from another culture, such as a friend or a teacher. You should say -who the person is -how you met him/her -where you met -and explain what you learnt about their cultural background I would like to talk about my friend Hiro, who is from Japan. I met Hiro in my first year of university, where we both took a course on international relations. We were assigned to work on a group project together, and that's how we became friends. We met at a coffee shop near campus, where we discussed the project and got to know each other. As we worked on the project, we learned a lot about each other's culture. Hiro shared many interesting things about Japan with me, and he opened my eyes to traditions from his homeland. One of the things I learned from Hiro is the importance of respect in Japanese culture. He explained how respect is a fundamental value in all aspects of life in Japan, from family and relationships to business and politics. Hiro also told me about the tradition of bowing as a sign of respect, which is something I found really interesting. Another thing I learned from Hiro is the importance of food in Japanese culture. He introduced me to some delicious Japanese dishes and explained the significance of certain ingredients and cooking techniques. I also learned about the traditional Japanese tea ceremony, which I found fascinating. Overall, I feel very fortunate to have met Hiro and to have learned so much about Japanese culture from him. It has given me a greater appreciation for the diversity of cultures in the world, and I feel more open-minded and eager to learn about other cultures.

Thanks for tuning in! Leave your 5 star review at iTunes (thanks!) https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ieltscast-weekly-shadowing-exercises-for-ielts-speaking/id1070129363 Visit my website for more: https://www.ieltsielts.com/ Here is a transcript of the model from today's episode: 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.

100 Episodes! 20,000+ listeners per month! It has been a great ride so far, and I'm so happy to hear these resources have been helpful to those of you pursuing the IELTS! If you haven't yet done so, please leave this show a 5 star review at iTunes! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ieltscast-weekly-shadowing-exercises-for-ielts-speaking/id1070129363 Here is a transcript of the band 9 sample from the episode: Is it easy to communicate with people from another culture? No. Communicating with people from another culture can be challenging, but it is not impossible. I guess the key precursor to this is that both speakers share a want to achieve successful communication. If this is a shared goal, I think communication between cultures is much more easily attained. What difficulties do we face when we talk to a person from another culture? There are several difficulties that people face when communicating with someone from a different cultural background, including language barriers and differences in customs. Certain gestures or wording can be endearing in one culture and offensive in another, for example. Is language barrier the main problem or are there other difficulties? The language barrier is a significant challenge in cross-cultural communication but it is not the only difficulty, and I wouldn’t necessarily say it is the “main” difficulty. I already mentioned differences in customs, but I would add that contrasting values or social norms can also make it challenging for people to understand each other's perspectives. Do you think if there were just one language in the world, people from different cultural backgrounds could communicate more easily? Having just one language in the world could make cross-cultural communication easier, but it would not solve all the difficulties that arise. Cultural differences could still create misunderstandings and difficulties in communication. So, in the event there were just one language in the world, I would presume healthy communication would still need people to be open-minded, respectful of others' cultures, and willing to learn and understand others’ perspectives.

Need more IELTS coaching? Upgrade your account! https://www.ieltsielts.com/customer/settings/edit Leave your 5 star review here! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ieltscast-weekly-shadowing-exercises-for-ielts-speaking/id1070129363 Do you work or study? I am currently working as a purchasing manager with a medium sized construction company. What are your responsibilities at work? My primary responsibilities include monitoring inventory levels along our supply chains and arranging stock replenishment when it is needed. I communicate closely with our sales team and create purchase orders for items based on our forecasted figures. Why did you choose this job? I actually didn’t choose this job. I was working as a warehouse manager when a vacancy as a purchasing manager opened up. The directors at the company thought I would be a great fit for the role and encouraged me to join. Is there something you don't like about your job? I like most things about my job, but if I had to choose something I would say that the role requires dealing with a fair amount of uncertainty, and I don’t terribly like this. The construction industry has seasonal fluctuations, and sometimes demand for our product can be difficult to forecast. This can be a source of significant stress for me. Let's talk about advertisements. Tell me about an advertisement you saw recently that you enjoyed. Recently, I saw an advertisement for a new mobile application that promised to help users stay organised and manage their time more effectively. What I liked about the advertisement was that it was very visually appealing and easy to understand. They used simple and clear language to convey the features and benefits of the app and the animation was very engaging. Would you like to be in an advertisement one day? I think it could be an interesting experience to be in an advertisement one day. I could use it as a great opportunity to showcase my personality and talents to a wider audience. However, I would only want to be a part of an advertisement campaign that aligns with my values and beliefs.

In Part 1 of this exam, the examiner does not deviate once from the topic of 'snacks'. Are you getting hungry yet? Don't forget to leave a 5 star review! (Thanks!) https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ieltscast-weekly-shadowing-exercises-for-ielts-speaking/id1070129363 Here is a transcript of this week's episode: Where do you live at the moment? I live with my parents in their house, which is north of this city. Do you like snacks? Yes, I do. Because my family is Chinese, we mostly eat traditional snacks from our hometown such as a crispy rice called 'guoba' and roasted peanuts. I also like dried fish snacks, which are usually quite spicy so you have to couple them with a drink of some kind. What time of the day do you prefer to have snacks and why? Where I am from, people tend to snack all day and I guess I would say I follow suit. In the early morning, it is not uncommon for me to start my day by snacking on salted ginger. If I'm feeling peckish in the afternoon or evening, I might grab a handful of sunflower seeds. In my opinion, anytime is a great time to snack on something! Do you think snacking is a healthy habit? I guess it depends on what you're eating. I presume snacking on processed foods like potato chips or chocolate wouldn't be great for your health long term. Traditional snacks from my country tend to be quite natural, though. They're mostly fresh or dried foods with few --if any-- additives. I guess so long as you're careful to munch on unprocessed foods only, snacking can be considered healthy. What were your favourite snacks as a child? Well, my snacking choices as a child were much less healthy than they are today! I enjoyed sweets and other sugary snacks. I remember my classmates and I would often get frozen snacks after school that were sweet and very similar to ice cream. My snacking choices have obviously evolved quite a bit since I was young! If you had a child, what snacks would you give him or her? I would try to push them towards the healthier options that I mentioned earlier. People say eating habits are partially established in childhood, so I think it is important to set a good example early. This doesn't mean that a child can't have the occasional sweet snack, but what's important is to remember that moderation and mindfulness are key.

Happy 2023! Thank you for tuning in to these episodes each and every week. I hope these resources play a part in your IELTS Speaking success. Please remember to show some support and leave this show a five star review at iTunes! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ieltscast-weekly-shadowing-exercises-for-ielts-speaking/id1070129363 Here is a transcript of the sample heard in this episode: We’ve been talking about a lesson that you remember well, and I would like to ask you a few more questions about this topic. What makes a lesson memorable? I think a few things help achieve this. Firstly, the teacher has a lot to do with it. Teachers that can make a subject interesting to the learner will always have memorable lessons.  The learning environment can also enhance the experience. I used to study Arabic with a tutor while living in Dubai. We would meet in shopping malls and he would help me practise by watching me speak in Arabic to shop owners. Those were lessons I will never forget! Why do people hire private tutors? In many cases, it depends on the student’s learning style. Some people prefer having designated one-on-one time with the teacher so that they can focus on their own weaknesses without having to concern themselves with the needs of other students. I enjoy both classroom instruction and private tuition, but when studying languages I prefer having a private tutor that can give me immediate and ongoing feedback. I feel this accelerates my progress. How are younger and older teachers different? They are different in many ways. Often older teachers have a much deeper understanding of the topic they are teaching, and this just comes from experience. However, younger teachers might have better understanding of technology and how the topic might be applied to contemporary times. In the advertising industry, for example, there may be statistical understanding that an older teacher explains better, whereas a younger teacher has a better grasp of the reach and demographics best hit by apps like Instagram. How have teaching styles changed compared to the past? Teaching these days makes much greater use of technology. I can’t remember the last time I saw a classroom with chalk sticks and a blackboard. Since COVID, it is also common for teaching styles to blend distance with in-person learning. Certain skills are also considered central to the learning experience now. For example, a lot of learning these days demands students research a topic using a variety of media on the internet. Do you expect people to learn in the same way in the future? I feel learning styles will forever evolve, but for now I think learning will occur through a blend of virtual and in-person methods. I feel like humanity is still a bit shaky on how to use some of the technology that was introduced during the global lockdown, so I don’t anticipate drastic changes in the foreseeable future. I imagine the next few years will involve solidifying our use of current technologies.

This week we're examining a Part 2 response on the topic of a lesson you remember. To access more speech shadowing exercises, visit https://www.ieltsielts.com/ Below is a transcripts of the full response: Talk about a lesson that you remember well. You should say -when and where it was -who taught you the lesson -what you learned -and explain why you remember the lesson well As far as school is concerned, I can’t in all honesty say I remember many lessons. However, I do remember a lesson I had with my English tutor. The lesson I remember very well was one that I had fairly recently in order to prepare for my IELTS exam. I was at my tutor’s home around four months ago and she began explaining writing Task 1 to me. I was extremely nervous about Task 1 because all my friends who had taken IELTS told me how tricky it was. Fortunately, my tutor explained it to me very methodically and demystified it for me. She showed me how to organise my ideas and what kind of language to use. She taught me how to group information appropriately, what to edit out and what to include, and how to communicate these areas in an appropriate tone. It initially felt like a great deal of information to synthesise but with some practice, it became a piece of cake. I took the writing portion of the test earlier today and feel like I utilised every bit of information my tutor provided, so I believe this is a lesson that is not only memorable but will be a crucial component to my success in the exams.

If you are enjoying these episodes, please leave a 5 star review at iTunes! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ieltscast-weekly-shadowing-exercises-for-ielts-speaking/id1070129363 Get access to adidtional speech shadowing exercises and IELTS Writing related material at https://www.ieltsielts.com/ Here is a transcript of the repeated script heard in this week's episode: Has technology changed the way people spend their leisure time? Most certainly it has. You no longer need to leave your home to spend time with friends; you just do a video call with them. Even the way we meet people has changed. Most of my current circle of friends are people that I met online.  Let’s talk about books. What type of books do you read? Well, I make every effort to read books written in English. I tend to prefer historical fiction books. I used to try to read classics but I find that language has changed so much in the past two hundred years or so that when I read something from that era, it’s like reading a different language! So, now I prefer more contemporary fiction. #ielts #learnenglish #study

If you are enjoying these episodes, please leave a 5 star review at iTunes! (Thanks!) https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ieltscast-weekly-shadowing-exercises-for-ielts-speaking/id1070129363 Here is a transcript of the band 9 response heard in this episode: Do people become friends because they have a similar personality? While this can be true, I don’t believe this is always the case. I think there need to be some similarities like common interests or a similar sense of humour, but looking at my friends I would say that our personalities are actually quite different. There are other things that bond us: mutual understanding, shared experiences and the things I previously mentioned. However, on the whole I would not say our personalities are the same.  How do people in your country behave to a new person when they meet for the first time? Well, in my country, we generally try to make the new person feel at ease. We definitely try to make them feel welcomed and so we show an interest in him or her. If the meeting is at our home, then we go to great lengths to make the newcomer feel honoured. So, we repeatedly offer food and drinks and make sure the guest knows that we value their presence.  How can we make people feel comfortable the first time we meet them? In my experience, humour is the best way. People who use self-deprecating humour always seem to make others around them feel comfortable because it shows the other person they can relax and are free to be casual. When you show you can laugh at yourself you exhibit self-confidence while also breaking the ice with the people around you.  How do people maintain social contact with coworkers or colleagues? I think social media goes a long way toward fostering personal relationships. Many of us don’t know our colleagues’ birthdays but apps like Facebook offer reminders so you can send someone wishes or even plan a mini celebration at work. Social media also lets you see who your co-workers are outside of work so you can see if you have similar interests or hobbies. This can be a starting point for a friendly relationship that extends beyond a simple acquaintance.  Do you think it is a good idea for companies to give breaks to their employees? I think that even if companies don’t give them employees will find a way to take them! Few people can work without interruption or break for eight hours or more. The mind needs to unwind, the body needs to move – or not move – but no work activity can or should be sustained for many hours without a short break. This leads to burnout and exhaustion, which leads to lowered productivity…so short-sighted thinking can potentially have long-lasting results. That is why I think it is a tragic mistake to not allow employee breaks.

If you are enjoying these episodes, please leave a 5 star review at iTunes! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ieltscast-weekly-shadowing-exercises-for-ielts-speaking/id1070129363 Here is a transcript of what is heard in this episode: Talk about a story someone told you that you remember well. Please say: -what the story is about -who told you the story -when he/she told you the story -and explain why you remember it so well This story was told to me several years ago. It is nothing short of incredible, and I’d have a hard time believing it had actually happened if it weren’t my brother who told me. My brother had planned to propose to his girlfriend of several years, and he put the engagement ring in his pocket hoping to surprise her when they met later that day. His girlfriend worked at the public transit depot in our city, so my brother’s plan was to take the bus to her office and walk with her to a park nearby where they could picnic and he could ask her to marry him. Unfortunately, when he went to put his coins into the bus’s fare repository, he accidentally dropped the engagement ring in too! He realised it a minute later and told the driver who radioed to have someone ready at the terminal station to open the repository and retrieve the ring. When the bus pulled into the transit depot, my brother’s girlfriend was standing there. The ring was quickly retrieved and my brother proposed to her right there on the spot! My brother and his wife remain happily married to this day, so as you can imagine this story is a cherished family memory that gets told a lot.

In this episode, you will practise speaking about your morning routine. If you find the exercise helpful, I really appreciate you leaving a five star review of the podcast at iTunes! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ieltscast-weekly-shadowing-exercises-for-ielts-speaking/id1070129363 Here is a transcript of what is heard in this episode: Do you work or study? I work in software development at a large organisation in this city.   How would you describe the layout of your workplace? My workplace is made up of several large office rooms with three or four workers in each room. Everyone has a desk and each office usually has a small table with an electric kettle for coffee and tea. We’re a small organisation, so the CEO works alone from the room that doubles as our company’s main meeting room. It has a large table and a whiteboard.   What do you do every day after you get up? The first thing I do is make a thermos of coffee while checking news headlines on my phone. Then I shower and get ready for work. I don’t usually eat breakfast at home because there is a small and inexpensive cafe next to our building.   Do you normally go to bed early? Yes, I’m almost always in bed by shortly after 9. I have a bad habit of watching media on my phone before bed, which I’ve read can disturb sleep patterns, but I’m nevertheless completely dead to the world by about 10 o’clock. Is your daily routine going to change in the future? No, barring some unforeseen change to my employment, I don’t think it will.   Do you usually remember your dreams after you get up? No I don’t, and I don’t particularly want to remember them. I find switching from one reality to another disorienting. In fact, I can’t remember the last time I had a dream I could recall!  

This week we look at a scripted Part 3 response. These questions follow up Part 2 from last week. The candidate speaks about the value of different things. Access the full transcript of this week's exercise here: https://www.ieltsspeakingblog.com/view/courses/videos/1588747-24-october-2022-part-3-the-value-of-things/4974416-learn-listen-without-the-pauses Please leave a 5 star review of this podcast! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ieltscast-weekly-shadowing-exercises-for-ielts-speaking/id1070129363

Access the full IELTS Speaking band 9 sample library: https://www.ieltsspeakingblog.com/videos Thank you for your 5 star review! Click here to leave a 5 star review! Here is a transcript of what is heard in the video:   Talk about a free item or service you received. Please say -what item or service it was -why it was free -what you did to receive it -and explain how you felt about receiving this item or service   Some time ago, I was driving my car and had to stop for gas. I remember being very anxious as it was in the middle of my exam period, so I was studying and on top of that I had just paid for some expensive repairs on my car, so I was strapped for cash. Although the tank was nearly empty, I asked the attendant to put 10 pounds worth of fuel in my car. He started the pump and walked away.   A minute or two later, I looked at the pump and saw that it read 40 pounds and was still going! I flagged down the attendant and reminded him that I had only asked for 10 pounds of fuel and now I had to pay nearly 50! He apologised profusely but said since I had been given the petrol I had to pay for it.   Well, I take it the attendant could see from my face that I was in a tight position and pretty upset about the whole ordeal. He offered to pay for the difference out of his salary but I couldn’t in good conscience ask him to do that. That’s when he offered me three free car washes and a waxing instead. It wasn’t an ideal situation as I still had to pay for the fuel and essentially I was getting something I didn’t truly need but I accepted the offer.    It all worked out in the end because my car received some much needed care. I, of course, used the petrol and the attendant was satisfied that he didn’t have to pay for the fuel himself. 

Thank you for your five star review! Sign up for the free daily newsletter: https://www.ieltsspeakingblog.com/ Do you work or study? I study psychology at the university here.  Do you enjoy studying this? Yes, it has been my dream since childhood to study psychology. The different theories that attempt to explain human behaviour never cease to amaze me.  How will your studies help you in the future? I hope to attend a graduate programme to get a specialisation in family and child psychology, so my undergraduate degree is a necessary first step.  Let’s talk about photos. Do you enjoy taking photos? Photography is one of my hobbies, so yes, I can often be found with my camera taking pictures of beautiful scenery. Do you like to take photos of yourself? At the risk of sounding narcissistic, yes, I do enjoy taking my own photo. Essentially though, it’s because I am never happy with the photos others take of me. So, if I don’t take a decent photo of myself once in a while, none would exist.  Would you consider getting a professional photo taken of yourself? I was somewhat forced to do this last year. My brother and his wife arranged for a series of family portraits for my parents’ wedding anniversary. It was a lovely, albeit awkward, experience.  Do you have a special family photo? Interestingly, even though a professional took our photos, I don’t consider these “special.” For me, I consider a photograph from my brother’s graduation special. The whole family is there, even my grandmother who is no longer with us. We are happy and just beaming with pride.

Thank you for leaving a five star review of this show! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ieltscast-weekly-shadowing-exercises-for-ielts-speaking/id1070129363 This week, you will be training to speak about the topic of spontaniety and unexpected situations. Try the full shadowing exercise here: https://www.ieltsspeakingblog.com/view/courses/videos/1556820-3-october-2022-part-3-spontaneity-and-unexpected-situations/4866004-try-listen-with-the-pauses-video-support Here is a transcript of what is heard in this episode: Do you like surprises? If they are pleasant surprises, yes, of course I enjoy a good surprise.  Do you think doing things spontaneously is a good idea? It depends on what the things are. A trip taken spontaneously can be wonderfully adventurous and rejuvenating. However, a house or car purchased on a whim can spell financial disaster. So spontaneity can be a great way to bring some excitement to a person’s life but it has to be done in moderation.   How do unexpected situations make people feel? Generally, I think people are uncomfortable with the unknown. We say that we like excitement and novelty, but in reality we are creatures of habit and are uncomfortable in unfamiliar circumstances. People get anxious and if this feeling is prolonged or happens repeatedly, their well-being suffers.  Why do some people feel stressed when things don’t go as planned? People like a sense of control. Or rather, I should say they like the illusion of control. They like to feel like they are masters of their own destiny – although if you ask me, this is ridiculous. I think people get stressed because they are insecure about their ability to handle something unexpected, and it’s a little childish quite frankly.

Sign up for the FREE daily newsletter: ieltsspeakingblog.com Here is the full sample response as heard in this week's episode:   Describe something that surprised you. You should say -what it was -how you found out about it -what you did -and explain how it made you feel   Well, unfortunately, I am about to describe an event that surprised me in a negative way and it is a little embarrassing but here goes. What surprised me recently was the result of my last IELTS exam when I got 6.5 in listening!   I had been preparing for IELTS for several months with a tutor and had completed at least 10 listening tests, so I felt very well prepared. My tutor had seen vast improvement in my listening and gave me glowing words of praise so my confidence was soaring. Even after I left the exam, I was certain I had achieved my required score.    Several days later, the notification that my results were available arrived. When I logged on to see the score, I was aghast. I told no one – I simply left the office and went for a walk. I don’t even remember where I went! I called my tutor and let her know what had happened. I believe she tried to console me but to no avail.   Shortly afterwards, when I had calmed down, I realised where I had gone wrong in my exam and now I am certain I won’t repeat the same mistake again.   Is this show helpful? Click here to leave a 5 star review at iTunes! (Thank you!)⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

I hope you found this episode helpful! Free daily IELTS newsletter: https://www.ieltsspeakingblog.com/ Please leave a 5 star review! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ieltscast-weekly-shadowing-exercises-for-ielts-speaking/id1070129363 Here is a transcript of what is heard in this episode: Where are you from? I am from a lovely seaside town about two hours from here. Do you work or study? I work as a lawyer in a large law firm. How do you feel at work? Usually, I feel very stressed. It’s a demanding job and when you know that someone’s freedom is at stake it can be very overwhelming. What do you usually do at your workplace? I spend a considerable amount of time on the computer, writing briefs, researching laws, precedents – anything that is relevant to the case I am representing. I also have meetings with clients and other lawyers.  Would you change anything about your workplace? I would change the pace of the work. For some reason, when it rains it pours. By that I mean that some periods are very slow and during other periods the workload seems insurmountable.  Do you prefer to call a colleague on the phone or send them an email? For work-related issues, I do both. I call the colleague to discuss and then I follow up with an email so that there is written documentation of our conversation. It is a bit tedious but absolutely necessary in my line of work. #ieltsspeaking #ieltstips

Thank you for tuning in this week! Look below to find a full transcript of what was heard in this week's sample IELTS Speaking response. Be sure to sign up for the free daily IELTS Speaking newsltter at: https://www.ieltsspeakingblog.com/ If you derived value from this lesson, please leave a five star review of this podcast at iTunes! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ieltscast-weekly-shadowing-exercises-for-ielts-speaking/id1070129363 Will you continue to follow this person on social media? Yes, I think I will continue to follow her as her content is interesting, informative and appealing.  Is social media important? If you had asked me fifteen years ago I would have said no, that it’s just a way to keep in touch with friends but now social media is unavoidable. It has become something far greater than a means to keep in touch with loved ones and has expanded to become a source of all information. For companies, it is a whole new vehicle for them - to be seen and to communicate with customers and potential customers. So much so, in fact, that companies hire staff that focus just on their social media presence.  Where do people get most of their information from nowadays? I think many people still use the TV and radio for information but the importance of the internet as a source of news cannot be overstated. Personally speaking, I use the internet exclusively for information because I can learn about events from multiple sources instantaneously. I would say that I am not alone in this and the sheer number of news websites or publications that have a web presence can attest to that.  Do older people get information from different sources? I think older people feel more comfortable with more traditional sources of information like the TV, radio or newspaper. You’d be hard pressed to find a young adult reading a newspaper unless it was for the novelty value of it.  Do you think you will continue to get information from the same sources in the future? I hesitate to say yes because I fear that one day soon those of us that get news from the internet will be deemed dinosaurs. I think just like with the TV, something new will eventually come up to replace the internet as a source of information and I wouldn’t be surprised if someone then said to me quote unquote “keep up with the times”.

Talk about someone you follow on social media. Please say -who the person is -why you follow him/her -what content he/she posts on social media -and explain why you find him/her interesting I have only recently started following celebrities and other public figures on social media. Up until now I reserved “following” and “friending” only for people I actually knew. However, I learned of an American woman who moved to this country some years ago and I have begun following her. Her name is Mary and she is a chef. I have been told she has a cooking show in the US which features cuisine from this country, Greece. I have never seen the show, but on social media she posts dishes she prepares with fresh, local produce, delicious cheeses, fish and meat. It intrigues me that a woman from across the pond has learned everything she can about our cuisine here and then presents it to her audience thousands of miles away. She generally advocates a healthy diet and lifestyle and through her foods, takes us back to simpler times when people prepared and enjoyed traditional food together.  She also features various small, high-quality producers from Greece, which is both informative and helpful to me as a customer but also a great service to the producer since their products get known to a much wider audience. I find her and her social media presence interesting because she has taken the best of our cuisine and distilled it, keeping it pure and genuine while introducing it to the world. Thank you again for your five star review! Don't forget to sign up for the FREE daily email: https://www.ieltsspeakingblog.com/

Thank you all so much for the five star reviews at iTunes! I really appreciate you supporting this show, and it pleases me to know these exercises are helpful to you! If you haven't yet left a five star review, please consider supporting this work: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ieltscast/id1070129363 "Is there anything you would change about your home?" Listen to the full sample here: https://www.ieltsspeakingblog.com/view/courses/videos/1500640-29-august-2022-part-1-your-home-and-hometown/4674438-learn-listen-without-the-pauses #ieltsspeaking #ingles #english #studyenglish  

#ielts #ieltsspeaking For all lessons visit: https://www.ieltsspeakingblog.com/ Here is a transcript of what is heard in this episode: Talk about a time when you visited a new place. Please say -where you were -why you went there -what you did -and explain how you felt in that place About a year ago, my friend and I took a train across our city to visit a public park we had never been to before. We were a bit on the fence about going because the weather forecast called for rain, but the park was hosting a ‘food festival’ on that day only so we decided to chance it. Luckily, not only did the rain stay away but it actually turned out to be a rather pleasant afternoon and we even got some sunshine! The festival featured numerous stalls where people from across the country cooked traditional foods from their region. My friend and I are both from Hanoi, so we were already familiar with most dishes, but it was nevertheless enjoyable to find grilled items and sauces that we hadn’t eaten in a long time. I remember having some traditional pastries with spicy dipping sauce and a little later in the day we both enjoyed a selection of barbecued seafood and meats. Some of the flavours brought me right back to my childhood. I think we both found it hard not to feel a little nostalgic! The park is really beautiful and has many scenic walkways, and this gave us the opportunity to stroll around leisurely and stop at times to admire the pond or just watch what other people were doing. We didn’t really do much aside from this, but I found the whole experience calming and refreshing. There were a few buskers performing funny skits and I recall some people practising softly on musical instruments, which gave the afternoon an even more relaxing aura.

Listen to the whole sample and read the transcript! https://www.ieltsspeakingblog.com/view/courses/videos/1474833-8-august-2022-part-1-photos-and-cars/4588945-learn-listen-without-the-pauses Was this episode helpful? Thank you for leaving a 5 star review at iTunes! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ieltscast-weekly-shadowing-exercises-for-ielts-speaking/id1070129363 #ielts #studyenglish #learnenglish #english #englishteacher #englishtips

Remember to subscribe to get these weekly episodes automatically downloaded to your device! Access the full transcript for this week's episode: https://www.ieltsspeakingblog.com/view/courses/speaking-about-shopping/1458803-1-august-2022-part-3-product-quality/4535450-listen-without-the-pauses Do you like this podcast? Please leave a 5 star review! (Thanks!) https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ieltscast-weekly-shadowing-exercises-for-ielts-speaking/id1070129363  

This is the podcast that runs you through a weekly shadowing exercise! Prepare for IELTS Speaking by repeating after a band 9 model. Subscribe to automatically receive each weekly episode in your feed! Listen to this week's full sample and read the transcript: https://www.ieltsspeakingblog.com/view/courses/speaking-about-experiences/1448639-25-july-2022-part-2-something-broken-and-then-repaired/4500217-listen-without-the-pauses Do you like this podcast? Please rate it five stars! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ieltscast-weekly-shadowing-exercises-for-ielts-speaking/id1070129363

The podcast that runs you through a weekly shadowing exercise! Train for IELTS Speaking by repeating after a band 9 model! Listen to the full sample and read the transcript: https://www.ieltsspeakingblog.com/view/courses/speaking-about-skills/1438289-18-july-2022-part-1-a-special-talent/4465277-listen-without-the-pauses Do you like this podcast? Give it five stars! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ieltscast-weekly-shadowing-exercises-for-ielts-speaking/id1070129363  

This week we're talking about work-life balance. The below steps will take you through the Learn, Try, Apply approach to speech improvement... 📖Step 1: Learn! Listen to this week's band 9 demonstration here: https://www.ieltsspeakingblog.com/view/courses/speaking-about-work/1429184-11-july-2022-part-3-work-life-balance/4434707-listen-without-the-pauses Remember to note any new language you come across in your journal. Here is a transcript to help with your review: We’ve been talking about time, and I would like to ask you a few more questions about this topic. Why don’t people have enough time nowadays? I think there are several reasons for this. Firstly, I believe instant messaging technology has made it difficult for people to disconnect from their professional lives. For example, it’s hard to ignore a request from a coworker if they can see through an app that you are online. Further, in my country, life in general has become more expensive and this has demanded people commit more time to their professions. Often, both partners in a household need to work, which means household chores must be done in their free time. Is it necessary for people to relax during the working day? I think people should have the option, yes. Among jobs where a worker’s alertness is a safety concern, such as an airline pilot or a surgeon, periods for recuperation are enforced by law. Long stretches of non-stop work, especially strenuous work, can have serious health effects as well. Further, I think people are more productive when they are given short breaks throughout their workday, so it’s not only good for the wellbeing of the worker, but also the wellbeing of their organisation. How can people achieve better work-life balance? First and foremost, it’s important to allot time in your schedule where you completely disconnect from technology. People should regularly put their devices on silent and avoid interruption, or leave these devices at home when they do short errands or exercise outdoors. I would even go so far as to declare to work colleagues the timings at which you can’t be reached, whether that’s lunchtime, evenings or weekends. People should also prioritise work-life balance by writing clear goals for the important relationships in their lives. For example, parents should actively strive to be mentally present when speaking to their children. Does current technology cause people to waste time or save time? It does both. It makes it possible to communicate instantly with people, which could be helpful if you want to tell your friend you need to urgently change some plans. However, it’s also a source of a tremendous amount of distraction. I mean, it’s so common nowadays to be talking in person with someone only to receive a mundane mobile notification. I guess I would have to say that technology wastes as much time as it saves!  👨‍🏫Step 2: Try! Work through the shadowing exercise here. Push yourself to sound exactly like the model: https://www.ieltsspeakingblog.com/view/courses/speaking-about-work/1429184-11-july-2022-part-3-work-life-balance/4434712-full-lesson (If you don't yet have a full account, you can watch the shorter YouTube version here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xNlunQuqkrc ) 🗨️Step 3: Apply! Use the language you have learned in your own day-to-day speaking. Use some of the questions from this week's exercise to help you keep your conversation going. (If you are looking for speaking partners, visit our voice chat!) Was this week's lesson helpful? Please leave a five star review at iTunes! (Thanks!) https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ieltscast-weekly-shadowing-exercises-for-ielts-speaking/id1070129363

Submit your speaking sample here! https://www.ieltsspeakingblog.com/view/courses/speaking-about-objects/1418578-4-july-2022-part-2-an-object-that-helps-you-save-time/4398769-homework-upload-your-mp3-speaking-sample This week we're looking at a Part 2 cue card that is on the topic of something that helps you save time. Here is a transcript of the sample from the episode in case you missed something while listening: Talk about something that helps you save time. Please say: -what it is -when you use it -why you use it -and explain why you believe it helps you save time One item that helps me save time is a calendar that I have hanging up in my kitchen. This calendar is painted on a whiteboard, so every few weeks I erase everything I had previously written and populate it with my schedule for the coming month. Because it is large and in a central part of my home, I essentially use it all the time. It is usually one of the first things I look at in the morning, and because I work from home I refer to the calendar several times throughout the day. I feel the calendar keeps me organised and ensures I do not schedule overlapping events. This helps me budget my time and clearly designate moments in my day when I can relax. If I know my schedule is comprehensively laid out, I don’t waste time worrying about it. Plus, it is much easier to use than an app on my phone. Changing anything on the calendar only takes a few seconds, so I suppose this saves me additional time. In addition to this, it communicates my professional commitments to my other family members. They can clearly see when I am working and when I am free, so this saves time by minimising work time interruptions.   Thank you for leaving a 5 star review of this podcast! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ieltscast-weekly-shadowing-exercises-for-ielts-speaking/id1070129363

Was this episode helpful? Please leave a 5 star review! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ieltscast-weekly-shadowing-exercises-for-ielts-speaking/id1070129363 Have a look at the transcript if you didn't quite catch something: May I see your ID? Here you are. Where are you from? I am from a city in China. It’s about an hour’s drive outside of Shanghai. What is the name of your hometown? It’s called Suzhou. There is actually more than one Suzhou in China. Mine is the one in Jiangsu province. What are some important features of your hometown? Well, like many cities in China, Suzhou is very old and has several ancient landmarks, such as the Humble Administrator Garden, which I believe is about a thousand years old now. We also have a district that is made up entirely of a network of canals. The area is understandably sometimes referred to as the ‘Venice of the East’. We also have a growing business district lined with skyscrapers, so I think a central feature of Suzhou is its blend of historical sites and contemporary architecture. Can you describe your home? I live in a simple one-bedroom apartment that has a large window in the living room with a view of the sunset. I really like the colour green, so I think most of the furniture has at least a little green in it. I also have several houseplants which help keep my apartment feeling fresh. Let’s talk about sports. What kind of sports do you like? I’m actually not a big sports person. Once in a while, I’ll play football with my friends in the park or hit a birdie back and forth with a badminton racket, but that’s about it. I do a lot of walking either on my own or with a friend, so if that counts I would say that’s my favourite sport. Do you watch live sports? I do but only when a really exciting sporting event is happening. For example, when the World Cup is on, I watch many of the matches live. I occasionally catch a Formula 1 race live too, but I don’t watch it enough to know much about the teams or drivers. I went to several basketball matches in Shanghai when I was a teenager, and I think these are the only live sporting events I’ve seen in person. Do you think sport audiences today have changed compared to the past? Yes, in many ways they have. In the past, sporting audiences were very localised. What I mean is you watched and discussed a sporting event with your friends or family, whereas now people watch sports streamed live online and discuss what’s happening with international viewers from around the world. I recently saw a sports commentator that was streaming his comments live while interacting with viewers from around the world. This is a clear difference compared to the past. However, I would say the audience’s spirit and passion for the game hasn’t changed, and I don’t think it ever will.

Leave your five star review here! (Thanks!) https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ieltscast-weekly-shadowing-exercises-for-ielts-speaking/id1070129363 Try a FREE sample lesson! https://www.ieltsspeakingblog.com/view/courses/speaking-about-culture/1373708-9-may-2022-part-3-clothing-and-the-fashion-industry/4246651-full-lesson Here is a transcript of what is heard in this week's podcast episode: 20 June 2022 | Part 3 | An outdoor activity We’ve been talking about an outdoor activity, and I would like to ask you a few more questions about this topic. Do you like spending time outdoors? Yes I do actually. I love biking, walking and just dining al fresco when the weather is nice. Fortunately, in this country, the weather avails itself to all sorts of outdoor activities from physical exercise to socialising with friends. Are there any benefits to outdoor activities? Of course! First of all, if you are engaging in exercise outdoors, this is good for overall health. Second of all, being out in the sun is beneficial because our bodies need vitamin D for good health. This must be done with caution of course, but I recently read that people in this country suffer from a vitamin D deficiency, so it is in our best interest to cautiously spend time outdoors. Lastly, as we often socialise outdoors at cafes, restaurants and even park benches, this is an important practice through which we can reduce stress levels. So, being outside is incredibly beneficial in a variety of ways.  What outdoor activities are popular in your country? Well, I have mentioned several of them but of course there are more like sailing, swimming or playing tennis. Those in the country enjoy hiking or horseback riding. Then, it would be remiss of me to neglect to mention our national sport: football, which is enjoyed by all ages.  What kind of outdoor activities were popular in the past? I think the only things that have changed are activities that have been brought to this country from abroad, like tennis. However, we have been known for our love of outdoor sports since antiquity. As far as I know, even activities associated today with the indoors, like wrestling, took place outside. Other activities like eating outdoors or sailing have also been a part of this culture for centuries. What type of outdoor activities will people like to do in the future? I can’t imagine these activities changing a great deal but if I had to picture some kind of science fiction scenario, I would say that perhaps people will fly for fun. One might say that we already do that but what I mean by that is just as today we might take a boat, train or car ride for leisure, perhaps there will be flying contraptions that allow us to take a short flight over the sea front or over a nearby hill, just to get a bird’s eye view of the area. I think a lot of people would enjoy something like this. Thank you. That is the end of the speaking exam.

Please leave a five star review! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ieltscast-weekly-shadowing-exercises-for-ielts-speaking/id1070129363   Click here to access this week's blog post! A candidate recently reported being asked about 'a long walk' in Part 2 of their IELTS Speaking exam. This week we're using a speech shadowing exercise to help train to speak about this topic. Here is a transcript of what is heard in this podcast episode: Describe a long walk you enjoyed. Please say – where you walked – who you walked with – when you walked – and explain why you enjoyed the walk.   Last year when our country was in lockdown, my best friend and I made a wonderful habit of walking on the weekends. We would set out from our homes and typically walk along the waterfront, which is lovely. Here is the link to the full lesson (37 minutes): https://www.ieltsspeakingblog.com/view/courses/speaking-about-hobbies/1387511-13-june-2022-part-2-a-walk-you-enjoyed/4295797-full-lesson The sample response used in this exercise was scripted by an active examiner. View more lessons at the blog: https://www.ieltsspeakingblog.com/community/home  

Who doesn't like talking about food?😀 A candidate reported being asked about barbecuing and the culture around barbecuing in their country. How confidently could you speak about this topic?   Have a look below at the scripted model from this week's shadowing exercise. (As always this is part of a full band 9 model written by an active IELTS examiner!) Do you like barbecue parties? To be completely honest, no, I don’t like them very much. This is something we do in this country quite a bit in the summer but because of the heat I find it far too tedious for my liking. Start your training with this week's shadowing video! https://www.ieltsspeakingblog.com/community/topics/22136/posts/148571-speaking-about-everyone-s-favourite-topic-food Do you have a paid account? Access this week's full lesson here: https://www.ieltsspeakingblog.com/view/courses/speaking-about-food/1377830-6-june-2022-part-1-barbecues/4261003-full-lesson

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Leave your 5 Star review here (Thanks!): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ieltscast-weekly-shadowing-exercises-for-ielts-speaking/id1070129363 One of the most common topics in IELTS is...YOU! This week we examine how to respond to a personal question about creativity. Talking about yourself is an extremely common requirement in all three parts of the IELTS Speaking exam. This week, we look at a Part 3 sample that demonstrates how to speak about yourself. Here is a transcript of what is heard in this podcast episode:  We’ve been talking about creativity, and I would like to ask you a few more questions about this topic. Are you a creative person? I try to be. I try to write quite a bit, but I don’t consider myself particularly talented. For that reason, I have never attempted to write for payment or try to get myself published. Don't stop training! Access the full lesson here: https://www.ieltsspeakingblog.com/view/courses/videos/1367438-30-may-2022-part-3-creativity/4222385-full-lesson Are these shadowing exercises helpful? Train for more topics here: https://www.ieltsspeakingblog.com/community/home

Thank you for your 5 star review! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ieltscast-weekly-shadowing-exercises-for-ielts-speaking/id1070129363 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Visit the blog entry for this exercise: https://www.ieltsspeakingblog.com/community/public/posts/146433-train-to-speak-about-one-of-the-most-common-ielts-speaking-topics-you A candidate reported receiving this cue card in Part 2 of their exam: Talk about a creative person whom you admire. Please say – who the person is – how you know him/her – why you think he/she is creative – and explain why you admire him/her. Here is a transcript of what is heard in this YouTube video: This is an interesting question because I consider myself fortunate to be surrounded by a creative circle of friends but of all of them the most creative person is my friend Erik. I admire him very much.

This week's topic: Parks and gardens! A candidate reported being asked about their hometown, parks and gardens in Part 1 of their IELTS Speaking exam. This week we look at how to respond to these questions at a band 9 level. Here is a transcript of what is heard in this YouTube video: Are there public parks or gardens in your hometown? Yes there are, but we don’t have a big, central park. Instead we have small, neighbourhood squares where the facilities vary. Some have playgrounds for children, some have benches and some even have exercise equipment. The sample as it appears in this blog post is only a portion of a full band 9 IELTS Speaking sample. Sign up for full lessons here to accelerate your improvement! https://www.ieltsspeakingblog.com/weekly-lessons/49113/buy The questions that appear in this week's lesson were reported by an IELTS candidate who took their exam in India in April 2022. The sample response used in this video was scripted by an active examiner. Access this week's full lesson here: https://www.ieltsspeakingblog.com/view/courses/videos/1346258-16-may-2022-part-1-your-hometown-parks-and-gardens/4144377-full-lesson   View more lessons at the blog: https://www.ieltsspeakingblog.com/community/home Subscribe to the podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ieltscast-weekly-shadowing-exercises-for-ielts-speaking/id1070129363 Other IELTS Speaking Blog resources to follow...   Discord: https://www.ieltsspeakingblog.com/view/courses/videos/1096336-announcements/3852250-join-the-discord-server Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ieltscast-weekly-shadowing-exercises-for-ielts-speaking/id1070129363 Twitter: https://twitter.com/ieltsnetwork Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RyansIELTSBlog/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ieltsryan/

Leave a 5 star review at iTunes! (THANKS!!) https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ieltscast-weekly-shadowing-exercises-for-ielts-speaking/id1070129363 Sign up for the full lessons! https://www.ieltsspeakingblog.com/weekly-lessons/49113/buy This week, we examine a scripted IELTS Speaking Part 3 response on the topic of special clothes in your country. Here is a transcript of what is heard: On what occasions or national holidays do people put on special clothes? In Korea, we dress for religious holidays, no matter if we are celebrating at home or out with friends and family. Men will wear suits or perhaps even traditional garments. Women will wear their finest clothes and jewellery, and this attire is all part of the fanfare of a holiday. The same applies for major celebrations like weddings and baptisms, where dressing well is deemed a sign of respect.

Enjoying this podcast? Please leave a five star review! (Thanks!) ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐   The candidate received a cue card asking about an item of clothing someone gave them. They chose to speak about a coat. Look below to find a scripted response and links to this week's shadowing exercise!🎙️ Talk about an item of clothing that someone gave you. Please say – what it was – when you got it – who gave it to you and why – and explain how you felt about it I am always showered with compliments when I wear this coat. As I have a flair for drama, the coat provides a certain mystique that I rather enjoy. It is a shame that my supervisor had to part with it, but it is quite a stroke of good luck for me! Access this week's full lesson: https://www.ieltsspeakingblog.com/view/courses/videos/1325469-1-may-2022-part-2-clothing-someone-gave-you/4071579-full-lesson   We're talking about this lesson at the blog: https://www.ieltsspeakingblog.com/community/home Sign up for the full course: https://www.ieltsspeakingblog.com/weekly-lessons/49113/buy Are you experiencing speech improvement as a result of these lessons? Reply to this email and let me know! Are you a paid subscriber? Join our voice chat group here: https://www.ieltsspeakingblog.com/view/courses/videos/1096336-announcements/3852250-join-the-discord-server Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ieltscast-weekly-shadowing-exercises-for-ielts-speaking/id1070129363 Twitter: https://twitter.com/ieltsnetwork Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RyansIELTSBlog/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ieltsryan/

This is a portion of a band 9 IELTS Speaking sample. Sign up for full lessons here! https://www.ieltsspeakingblog.com/weekly-lessons/49113/buy Access this week's full lesson here (33 minutes): https://www.ieltsspeakingblog.com/view/courses/videos/1314875-25-april-2022-part-1-your-work-and-art/4034064-full-lesson The questions that appear in this video were reported by an IELTS candidate who took their exam in India in March 2022. The sample response used in this video was scripted by an active examiner. If you are an active IELTS Speaking examiner that would like to be paid to produce scripts like this one, please email: ryan@ieltsspeakingblog.com Subscribe to the podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ieltscast-weekly-shadowing-exercises-for-ielts-speaking/id1070129363 Here is a transcript of what is heard in this YouTube video: Would you be willing to study art in the future? I actually studied art history in university. However, I would be more than happy to study fine arts now, where I could hone my craft and get to a much more impressive level of artistry.

Sign up for the full lessons! https://www.ieltsspeakingblog.com/weekly-lessons Access this week's full lesson here: https://www.ieltsspeakingblog.com/view/courses/videos/1304495-18-april-2022-part-3-gift-giving-in-your-culture/4000779-full-lesson Here is a transcript of what is heard in this episode: What is more satisfying, gift-giving or receiving? Why? Everyone loves to receive gifts of course, but in my culture, when someone gives you something, you are then indebted to them, and this obligation can be somewhat stressful. For that reason, I find it more rewarding to give a gift, especially if it is to someone I love and I see that they enjoy what I have given them. That feeling is better than any gift you could receive. Connect with me! Email: ryan@ieltsspeakingblog.com Twitter: https://twitter.com/ieltsnetwork Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RyansIELTSBlog/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ieltsryan/ Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ieltscast-weekly-shadowing-exercises-for-ielts-speaking/

View the blog entry for this lesson: https://www.ieltsspeakingblog.com/community/public/posts/132941-a-recent-cue-card-talk-about-a-gift-you-would-like-to-give-a-friend Not yet a subscriber? Sign up for the full lessons now! https://tinyurl.com/ieltsryan Please leave a five star review of this podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ieltscast-weekly-shadowing-exercises-for-ielts-speaking/ Paid subscribers can access the full lesson here: https://www.ieltsspeakingblog.com/view/courses/videos/1295411-11-april-2022-part-2-a-gift-for-a-friend/3971625-full-lesson Here is a transcript of what is heard in this YouTube video: Talk about a gift you would like to give to a friend. You should say – what the gift is – how valuable it is – and say why you chose this gift I am very fortunate to have my friend, Eva. She has always supported me in all of my endeavours and has believed in me when I have not believed in myself. It is thanks to Eva that I started my own side business creating hand-painted straw hats. So I am a lawyer, an artist and a business person. Practise this exercise with others in the Discord group: https://www.ieltsspeakingblog.com/view/courses/videos/1096336-announcements/3852250-join-the-discord-server Twitter: https://twitter.com/ieltsnetwork Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RyansIELTSBlog/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ieltsryan/

Is this podcast helpful? Please click here and leave a quick five star review in iTunes! Access more lessons like this one: https://www.ieltsspeakingblog.com/community/public/posts/130866-let-s-talk-about-dreams Here is a transcript of what is heard in this this sample: Do you think dreams have meaning? I don’t believe they have meaning other than revealing the thoughts of our subconscious. So, I don’t believe they are prophetic or anything. At least, they aren’t for me. Do you enjoy hearing about other people’s dreams? I like hearing about the ones that baffle the dreamer. I recently helped a friend analyse a dream that had confused him, and he found my interpretation rather enlightening. Dreams with no significance are rather boring though and most dreams I experience are of this variety. Practise this exercise with others in the Discord group: https://www.ieltsspeakingblog.com/view/courses/videos/1096336-announcements/3852250-join-the-discord-server Twitter: https://twitter.com/ieltsnetwork Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RyansIELTSBlog/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ieltsryan/ Subscribe to this podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ieltscast-weekly-shadowing-exercises-for-ielts-speaking/

Access the full lesson (74 minutes): https://www.ieltsspeakingblog.com/view/courses/videos/1273360-28-march-2022-part-3-pride/3897021-full-lesson No account? Sign up here! Below is a transcript of the sample heard in this episode. As always, this band 9 model was scripted by an active examiner: We’ve been talking about families, and I would like to ask you a few more questions about this topic. What can a child do to make their parents proud? I think it depends on the values the family has tried to instil in the child. If the parents have tried to teach the child to be polite, and the child succeeds, the parents will be proud. Likewise, if the parents have emphasised sports or academics and the child excels in one of these, this will please the parents. Is it a good thing to reward children? Apparently, psychologists say that rewards are far more effective in reinforcing behavior than punishment…so in that sense, I suppose rewards are a good thing. I would imagine though that the reward has to be appropriate for the accomplishment. You wouldn’t give a child a Porsche for saying please and thank you. Follow on social media... Twitter: https://twitter.com/ieltsnetwork Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RyansIELTSBlog/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ieltsryan/ Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ieltscast-weekly-shadowing-exercises-for-ielts-speaking/ #StudyEnglish #雅思 #toefl #英語の勉強 #英語学習 #英検 #雅思 #雅思托福 #English #IELTS 0

As always, this band 9 model was scripted by an active IELTS examiner. Please leave a 5 star review on this podcast! (Thanks!) Join the Discord server! https://www.ieltsspeakingblog.com/view/courses/videos/1096336-announcements/3852250-join-the-discord-server Here is a transcript of what is heard in this week's episode: Where is your hometown? I am from a small city in the eastern part of this country. Let’s talk about mobile phones. What app have you installed on your phone recently? I recently downloaded a taxi service application to assist with my commute. How have you benefited from using this app? This application has saved me both time and money. Because the taxi is guaranteed to arrive quickly, I know I won’t waste money trying to hail a cab. Also, since the price is determined beforehand, I don’t have to worry about other variables like traffic increasing my fare.

Please click this link to share this week's video to your Facebook feed: https://bit.ly/3J3qcE4 Access the full lesson (42 minutes): https://www.ieltsspeakingblog.com/view/courses/videos/1239708-7-march-2022-part-3-meeting-people-and-being-polite/3779611-full-lesson Don't yet have an account? Join here: https://www.ieltsspeakingblog.com/weekly-lessons/36158/buy Here is a transcript of what is heard in the video: Let’s talk about meeting people. What are some different ways to meet people? Traditionally, we would meet people face to face – through friends, work, or daily interactions. Nowadays, people are meeting each other more and more through the internet. There is an endless number of applications that make this possible, and it appears this approach is only getting more popular. What are the advantages and disadvantages of meeting people on social media? The advantage is that you may meet someone who you would otherwise not meet in your daily life. This is the case of my brother and his wife who met online but would have never met each other if it weren’t for the app they were using. The disadvantage is that you don’t get a full picture of the person. You see only what they want you to see – for example, enhanced photos, omissions or falsities in their profile – so this can be misleading. I'm on Twitter: https://twitter.com/ieltsnetwork I'm on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RyansIELTSBlog/ I'm on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ieltsryan/ #IELTS #Shadowing #English #StudyEnglish #雅思 #toeic #toefl #英語 #英語の勉強 #英語学習 #英検 #雅思

Thank you for your 5 star (*****) review! Subscribers can access the full exercise here: https://www.ieltsspeakingblog.com/view/courses/videos/1228557-27-february-2022-part-2-a-person-you-met-and-want-to-know-more-about/3742493-full-lesson Non-subscribers can sign up here: https://www.ieltsspeakingblog.com/weekly-lessons/36158/buy This week’s IELTS Speaking exercise responds to a cue card that asks you to talk about a person you met and want to know more about. This cue card was seen in 2022. Describe a person you met only once and want to know more about. You should say: – who he/she is – when you met him/her – why you want to know more about him/her – and explain how you feel about him/her Last month I took a trip for a work conference, and I was introduced to a very interesting man by a colleague. He is a very experienced professional in my field who is extremely knowledgeable not only about his subject area but about related topics as well.   His name is Ernesto, and I guess I met him during one of the conference breaks. My colleague introduced me to him, and the three of us talked over coffee. The discussion covered a variety of topics, both related and unrelated to work. Ernesto possessed the rare combination of being an engaging speaker and a patient listener.

Students, teachers, examiners: Please complete my quick survey! https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/WB6M7MD Access full speaking exercises and additional IELTSCast episodes here: https://www.ieltsspeakingblog.com/courses/videos/847517-may-2021/2501391-24-may-2021-part-1-your-city-music-and-rain Please leave a five star review on iTunes! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ieltscast/id1070129363 (Thanks!)

Subscribe today and try the full course FREE for 3 days! https://www.ieltsspeakingblog.com/weekly-lessons/36158/buy Here is a transcript of what is heard in this episode: Part 1 Let’s talk about vacations. Do you like vacations? I do, however, I find it difficult to strike the right balance between too long and too short. When a vacation is too long, I find myself homesick and longing for my routine. If it’s too short, I am very sad to leave. Part 2 I ate something and looked at the shops, but as I mentioned, I was also very tired, so I decided to rest a bit until my flight was ready for boarding. That is when it was announced that my flight to New York was delayed an additional three hours! You can imagine my frustration. Part 3 Do you believe that every country should have its own film industry? That is an interesting question. I think from a cultural perspective, yes. Why? It is important that each country produces stories that represent the life and culture of that particular place. Citizens must see themselves in the stories that are told. Additionally, those stories should be available for the world to see. So, just as it is important for each country to have its own literature and music, it is equally important for each to have its own film industry. Of course, it is also worth mentioning that the film industry provides jobs and aids the economy, so it clearly offers multiple benefits.

Subscribe today and try the full course FREE for 3 days! https://www.ieltsspeakingblog.com/weekly-lessons/36158/buy A transcript of what is heard in this episode: How can an employer persuade employees to work better? I suppose it depends on what you mean by “better.” If you mean more effectively, I think inspiring a sense of ownership and inclusion is important. When employees feel like the success of a company hinges on their involvement, they feel an obligation to perform better. If they are acknowledged and rewarded for their efforts and feel like their contributions matter, they may be persuaded to contribute as much as they can.

Full IELTS Speaking course: https://www.ieltsspeakingblog.com/ Let’s talk about agriculture and farms. When was the last time you were on a farm? Well, my uncle has a vineyard so if that counts, I was there two months ago. I helped him pick grapes and we enjoyed a lovely family lunch together. Would you like to live and work on a farm? When I am on my uncle’s vineyard, I admit this lifestyle seems very romantic at first, but the truth is you must dedicate your whole life to the land, so I don’t believe this type of life is for me. I think I would prefer an urban life with a better work-life balance.

Please leave this episode five stars (*****)! Visit the blog entry for this lesson: https://www.ieltsspeakingblog.com/members/posts/73168-what-do-most-children-want-to-be-when-they-grow-up Here is a transcript of the lesson: What do most children want to be when they grow up? I think most children start by fantasising about the jobs of the rich and famous, so, athletes or entertainers like singers or actors. These jobs must seem relatively easy and glamorous for children, and I feel this is why they are appealing. Children also often want to do jobs that are familiar to them, so we frequently hear that they want to be teachers, policemen or doctors. Many children are also drawn to the professions of their parents, and this continues even into adulthood. I imagine this is why we see lawyers who are the children of lawyers, and doctors who are the children of doctors, and so forth.

Please leave a ***** review! Access the full lesson: https://www.ieltsspeakingblog.com/members/posts/72513-your-ideal-job Transcript of the lesson: Talk about your ideal job. Please say – What job it is – What skills you need for this job – Why you would like to do this job My ideal job is one that I am currently on the path to acquire. Having recently completed my bachelor’s degree, I am applying for further studies in the UK to gain specialisation in my field. The job I hope to obtain in the near future is that of corporate lawyer.

This lesson looks at response patterns for a question seen recently on a real IELTS Speaking exam. Visit this link to see the accompanying blog entry: https://www.ieltsspeakingblog.com/members/posts/71867-what-can-you-see-from-your-window

Have a look at the blog entry for this lesson: https://www.ieltsspeakingblog.com/members/posts/71415-what-are-the-effects-of-global-warming

In this episode, you will work through a 'Repeat After Me' exercise. This requires you repeat what you hear in the pauses provided. For the full exercise, visit the below link: https://www.ieltsspeakingblog.com/courses/videos/854093-july-2021/2652719-19-july-2021-part-3-city-life-foreign-countries-and-living-in-new-places

This is a really useful episode. Leon shares details regarding how he prepared and what allowed him to score band 7.5 on his first IELTS attempt. Visit http://www.ieltsspeakingblog.com to get access to my IELTS Speaking lessons.

In this episode, we look at this recent Task 2 question seen in Hong Kong: Extreme sports are dangerous yet popular among people. Explain why they are so popular and how can we do them in a safe manner. Tune in and found out how to structure an effective response! For more episodes search iTunes or any podcast aggregator for 'IELTSCast'! My blog: http://www.ieltsielts.com My email: ryan@ieltsielts.com

This episode looks at three recent 2019 IELTS questions and suggests appropriate responses. I'm still coaching IELTS Writing through email. :) Visit my website at http://www.ieltsielts.com  Need help making an IELTS study plan? Tell me about your situation: ryan@ieltsielts.com or Facebook Messenger at http://www.facebook.com/ieltsnetwork

Patrick shares his invaluable advice regarding Canadian PR through Express Entry in Episode 45 of IELTSCast. Visit his website at http://www.101migration.com. I'm still teaching IELTS. :) Visit my website at http://www.ieltsielts.com  For more information about Express Entry: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-... Need help making an IELTS study plan? Tell me about your situation: ryan@ieltsielts.com

In this episode, I push you to listen for three separate conversation fillers in a band 9 speaking demonstration. The goal of this lesson is to get you to identify and adopt these fillers for use in your own speaking! Do you like IELTSCast? Help the show out by leaving ⋆⋆⋆⋆⋆ on iTunes! Visit www.ieltsielts.com for more of my lessons and IELTS related material. I'm also on YouTube. Just search for 'IELTS Ryan'. Would you like to appear on the show? Email me at ryan@ieltsielts.com with your story!

IELTS is not more difficult in Australia, and Noah's experience acts as evidence. In this conversation, I talk with Noah about his two disappointing IELTS experiences in Vietnam and how they compared to the success he had in Australia. It's a great conversation, and I'm grateful Noah took the time to be on the show. Do you like IELTSCast? Help the show out by leaving ⋆⋆⋆⋆⋆ on iTunes! Get your IELTS Speaking and Writing assessed FREE OF CHARGE today! Post your samples to ieltsnetwork.com. I'm on Whatsapp and WeChat! Add: +97450070877 Would you like to appear on the show? Email ryan@ieltsielts.com with your story!

  In this episode, Syeda details exactly what she did to score band 8 in writing. She stresses the importance of varied language, and chose a scenario for her General Task 1 letter that made it easier for her to come up with synonyms. Syeda's advice regarding structure and tone is also excellent, and she shares a number of helpful resources candidates can plug into online. If you're looking for writing or speaking feedback, post your Task 1 or 2 writing sample or MP3 IELTSNetwork.com and a professional will get back to you within a few days. Do you have a great IELTS story to share? Get in touch with me (Ryan) via email (ryan@ieltsielts.com), Twitter (ieltsnetwork), or WeChat (ieltsnetwork). We've also got an active WeChat group! Add my contact to join.  Are you listening to this show on iTunes? Give it a five star (★★★★★) rating! If you are using Stitcher, a quick thumbs up is very much appreciated! Ratings help the show find new stories to share. Good luck!  

Glenn used technology to his advantage while preparing for his IELTS. As he explains in this interview, he found useful apps on both Facebook and his phone to help him practice his language while on the go. Using 'Criminal Case' on the Facebook platform and 'Word Mess' on his iPhone, Glenn pushed his lexicon and honed his ability to use different words in different contexts. If you are an IELTS candidate, give these resources a try. This interview also has a bit of a back story. Glenn and I actually held the interview in the summer of 2014, but the file I recorded on my laptop became corrupted. It was thus a pleasant surprise to discover the file playable almost two years later! Glenn's advice is just as valid today as it was in 2014, so I think you are going to get a lot out of this talk. I hope you enjoy this episode! Please don't forget that IELTS speaking and writing coaches are standing by at IELTSNetwork.com to provide you with the feedback you need to succeed. Come and post your samples right now! Are you listening to this show on iTunes? Give it a five star (★★★★★) rating! If you are using Stitcher, a quick thumbs up is very much appreciated! Ratings help the show find new stories to share. Good luck!

A few weeks ago, I opened my inbox and saw an email entitled 'Have you ever thought about how American football is like the IELTS?' I had to admit to myself that I had NEVER thought about that...nor did I ever think I would think about that! The email was from Slava, an IELTS aspirant that managed to score band 8 in reading and band 7 overall. His strategies, results, and American football comparisons were intriguing, so I set up a time to talk with him and tap into his insight. In this interview, you will hear Slava talk about how he strengthened himself mentally through a somewhat Pavlovian approach to his training. Weeks ahead of time, he was progressing through his Saturdays as though they were exam days - getting up early, doing a few mild warmup exercises, and engaging a practise exam. His relentless approach to grooming himself for exam success paid off with the mark he needed. This is a great conversation, and I feel very privileged to have had the opportunity to talk with Slava about this success. If you are an IELTS candidate that has scored band 8 or higher, consider coming on the show and sharing your story. Your advice could be what unlocks IELTS success for another person, so don't hesitate - email me (Ryan) at ryanthiggins@gmail.com! Be sure to visit ieltsnetwork.com for more episodes like this one and free feedback on your speaking and writing. Don't stop at 7. Go and get that 9!

You are not going to want to miss this episode. Nura and I talk about her three IELTS attempts and what helped her grow from overall 6.5 to 8. Nura explains how testing strategy is just as important as raw language ability, and I think this is a very valid point that candidates often forget. Get in touch if you have scored band 8 or more on the IELTS and want to tell the world about your experience! Find me at ieltsnetwork.com. If you're looking for more IELTS related discussion, navigate to http://www.ieltsnetwork.com. We now have TWO active examiners on site ready to answer your questions (so long as their confidentiality arrangement permits them to do so). Join in the discussion NOW! Are you on Facebook? The IELTS Network Facebook page has over 200,000 likes and is always buzzing with exciting IELTS news. Like the page and receive IELTS updates in your Facebook feed! https://www.facebook.com/IELTSNetwork/

I've been a little distant this past year, and I just wanted to record a quick episode to let the online IELTS community know what I've been up to and what I'm hoping to do with my time and with the ieltsnetwork.com community over the next few months. There is no interview in this episode. The episode is a simple ten minute introspective monologue, and I hope you enjoy it! As always, if you've scored band 8+ on your IELTS and would like to share some insight on this show, please get in touch. I'm scheduling new interviews for the few weeks remaining in 2015, and the IELTS community and I would really appreciate hearing from you!

This was a great conversation. David (band 8.5) and I talk about how altering his lifestyle helped improve his performance on the IELTS. At almost two hours, it's one of the longer interviews in the IELTSCast series, but I think you'll agree that the information David imparts is really actionable. If you're looking for more IELTS related discussion, navigate to http://www.ieltsnetwork.com. We now have TWO active examiners on site ready to answer your questions (so long as their confidentiality arrangement permits them to do so). Join in the discussion NOW! Are you on Facebook? The IELTS Network Facebook page has over 200,000 likes and is always buzzing with exciting IELTS news. Like the page and receive IELTS updates in your Facebook feed! https://www.facebook.com/IELTSNetwork/

This is a really interesting episode. Prashenjit and I talk about exam approaches and how study strategies may vary between one candidate and another. Be sure to join us at the ieltsnetwork.com community, where you can get your speaking and/or writing assessed completely free of charge. For more episodes like this one, check out the 'Podcast episodes' section. I'm also on Twitter at @ieltsnetwork.

This is a great talk. Linh explains her IELTS success and some specific training she underwent that could be helpful to other candidates from Vietnam. For more episodes like this one, and to talk to me and other IELTS enthusiasts, join IELTSNetwork.com. Be sure to get in touch with me if you have achieved band 8 or higher on the exam.

Sarojini and I talk at length about her successful performance at an IELTS exam in Denver, Colorado. It is a great episode. Sarojini's detailed description of her preparation will inspire you. Don't forget to join us at ieltsnetwork.com, where you can get free feedback on your speaking and writing.

This was a really interesting interview I did with Patrick, a Singaporean that achieved Australian citizenship and Canadian PR. He is a licensed immigration consultant in both Australia and Canada and the brains behind 101migration.com, the company through which he provides his consultation services. Patrick answers all of my questions and then answers several listener questions. It is a terrific conversation and you are not going to want to miss it. To get in touch with me, or to download other episodes in this series, visit ieltsnetwork.com. If you'd like to appear on the show, please drop me a message!

This is a really interesting episode in which Igor explains in detail how he scored an almost flawless IELTS score. If you are looking for tips on how to prepare for IELTS, download this episode now! If you are an individual that has had success on the IELTS and would like to share your story, get in touch with me, Ryan, at ieltsnetwork.com.

Madawa and I have a candid conversation about study approaches, testing strategies, and the IELTS in general. It was a great conversation and I really appreciate Madawa taking the time to come on the show and share a success story. Don't forget that you can interact with me and several others at ieltsnetwork.com. Our community is over 14,000 people. It's a great place to get your speaking or writing assessed completely free of charge! Come join us: ieltsnetwork.com I'm interested in your story! Are you a successful IELTS candidate? Would you like to come on the show and share your experience with the world? I would love to talk to you, so please email me: ryan@ieltsielts.com Don't stop at 7. Go and get that 9!

Vinod and I have a frank chat about his IELTS experience in this episode, and I appreciate the direct nature with which he explains his thoughts. If you have scored band 7 or higher, get in touch with me by emailing ryan@ieltsielts.com. To have your writing or speaking assessed, visit ieltsnetwork.com. I'm on Whatsapp and WeChat! Search for: +97450070877 Do you like IELTSCast? Please give this show a five star rating on iTunes!

Hoi's approach to the IELTS was very calculated. He taught himself to speed read, and this helped him immensely in the reading and listening sections. In this interview, Hoi talks about his prep in detail and touches upon specific tricks that can help candidates better perform on specific question types. To see the visuals Hoi refers to in the interview, watch the video version of this episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_0kOtuFLl2E I'm on Whatsapp and WeChat! Add: +97550070877 If you like IELTSCast, why haven't you left it a five star review on iTunes? :) To appear on the show, email me at: ryan@ieltsielts.com

In this episode, I talk with a candidate that wishes to remain anonymous. He managed to score band 7 but feels his IELTS prep institute experience did not play a role in this achievement. Tune in and listen to his position. Would you like to appear as a guest on the show? Email me at ryan@ieltsielts.com. The world needs your IELTS story, so get in touch today! Give this show five stars on iTunes! Your support makes the show better. Do you need feedback on your IELTS writing or speaking? Post work samples to ieltsnetwork.com today! It's a completely free way to receive feedback on your work.