IELTSCast

This show publishes shadowing exercises that support preparation for IELTS Speaking. All speaking scripts are written by active examiners and all questions are real questions from previous exams. To join the free newsletter: http://www.ieltsielts.com Contact Ryan at [email protected]

Lesson 154 | Part 1: Transportation🚇 05/06/2024

Lesson 153 | Part 3: Water based activities🏊 04/29/2024

Lesson 152 | Part 2: A profession done in or near water🌊 04/22/2024

Lesson 151 | Part 1: Drawing🎨 04/14/2024

Lesson 150 | Part 3: Learning English💂 04/08/2024

Lesson 149 | Part 2: A person from another country that speaks your language well🎎 03/31/2024

Lesson 148 | Part 1: Your village and native language💬 03/26/2024

Lesson 147 | Part 3: Relaxation in your country🎣 03/17/2024

Lesson 146 | Part 2: A relaxing place🥰 03/11/2024

Lesson 145 | Part 1: Music in your country🪕 03/06/2024

Lesson 144 | Part 2: An event or ceremony most people go through in your culture🪔 02/27/2024

Lesson 143 | Part 1: Video games🎮 02/19/2024

Lesson 142 | Part 3: Children and change👦 02/12/2024

Lesson 142 | Part 3: Children and change👦 Get the FREE newsletter! Do you think children generally find it difficult to accept change? I guess it depends on the nature of the change and a child's individual temperament. In my view, the unfamiliarity of new situations can make major changes very difficult to accept for most children. In your opinion, is a change of routine good for children? Yes, I believe a change of routine can be beneficial for children. It exposes them to different experiences, which fosters adaptability and crucial life skills such as problem-solving. However, the key lies in maintaining a balance because too much change too quickly might overwhelm a child. Do you think it takes a long time for children to adjust to a new school? The time it takes for children to adjust to a new school can vary significantly. Some children may adapt quickly, forming new friendships and becoming acclimatised within a short period. Others may require more time, especially if they face challenges in establishing connections or adapting to a different academic curriculum. What factors might influence their adjustment process? Several factors can influence a child's adjustment to a new school. The support system at home, including the involvement of parents and the overall family environment, plays a crucial role. Additionally, the school's atmosphere, the friendliness of classmates and the effectiveness of teachers in facilitating integration can significantly impact a child's ability to adjust. Do you believe that children never fully adjust to moving to a new place? While it may take time, I believe most children do eventually adjust to moving to a new place. Children are remarkably resilient, and with the right support, they can adapt successfully. The adjustment process might differ for each child, but with time, most children can overcome the challenges associated with relocating. Can frequent changes in a child's life impact their development? Yes, frequent changes in a child's life can indeed have an impact on their development. Consistent instability may lead to feelings of insecurity and anxiety, potentially affecting their emotional well-being. However, it's essential to note that not all changes are detrimental. Adapting to different situations can also enhance a child's problem-solving skills and resilience. Striking a balance and providing a stable foundation for children during periods of change is crucial to ensuring positive development outcomes. Thank you. /episode/index/show/ieltscast/id/29923118

Lesson 141 | Part 2: Something you bought that you now cannot live without💻 02/06/2024

Lesson 140 | Part 1: Quiet places and sunglasses🕶️ 02/01/2024

Lesson 139 | Part 3: Complaints☹️ 01/24/2024

Lesson 139 | Part 3: Complaints☹️ Visit the blog! Get full lessons! 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. /episode/index/show/ieltscast/id/29621403

Episode 138 | Part 2: An event that positively impacted your life🌠 01/19/2024

Episode 137 | Part 3: Agriculture🥔 01/16/2024

Episode 137 | Part 3: Agriculture🥔 Sign up for FULL lessons! Visit my blog! 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. /episode/index/show/ieltscast/id/29501918

Episode 136 | Part 2: Someone who loves cooking🍳 01/05/2024

Episode 135 | Part 1: Noise and loud music📯 12/29/2023

Episode 134 | Part 3: Helping and volunteering🪴 12/20/2023

Episode 134 | Part 3: Helping and volunteering🪴 Join for full lessons! Get the FREE newsletter! 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. /episode/index/show/ieltscast/id/29165738

Episode 133 | Part 2: A person who always offers a helping hand to others💛 12/14/2023

Episode 132 | Part 1: Rain and staying healthy in your country🏃 12/07/2023

Episode 131 | Part 3: Young people and independence🧮 11/29/2023

Episode 131 | Part 3: Young people and independence🧮 Join for FULL exercises! 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 professionals 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. /episode/index/show/ieltscast/id/28835528

Episode 130 | Part 2: Someone you know who moved into a new accommodation🏢 11/22/2023

Episode 129 | Special! 40+ minutes of 'repeat after me' exercises!✅ 11/15/2023

Episode 128 | Part 3: Talking about projects at work (10 min. exercise!)🗂️ 11/06/2023

Episode 128 | Part 3: Talking about projects at work (10 min. exercise!)🗂️ Join this channel for FULL lessons: Join my FREE newsletter! 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. /episode/index/show/ieltscast/id/28526537

Episode 127 | Part 2: An impactful book you read📕 10/31/2023

Episode 126 | Part 1: Your hometown and drinks🍵 10/24/2023

Episode 126 | Part 1: Your hometown and drinks🍵 Join for FULL exercises! Subscribe to this podcast on YouTube Music! 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. /episode/index/show/ieltscast/id/28406012

Episode 125 | Part 3: Traditional celebrations in the modern world 🎏 10/16/2023

Episode 125 | Part 3: Traditional celebrations in the modern world 🎏 Please excuse the quality of my voice in this episode. I was a little sick.🤧 Get the FULL lessons! 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. /episode/index/show/ieltscast/id/28337489

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