IELTSCast | Weekly shadowing exercises for IELTS Speaking - Episode 138 | Part 2: An event that positively impacted your life🌠

Episode 138 | Part 2: An event that positively impacted your life🌠

01/19/24 • 15 min

IELTSCast | Weekly shadowing exercises for IELTS Speaking

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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.

The new website is up! https://ieltsielts.com/

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.

In summary, the decision to learn a new language, Spanish in particular, was a transformative event that positively influenced various aspects of my life.

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Episode 137 | Part 3: Agriculture🥔

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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.

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Lesson 139 | Part 3: Complaints☹️

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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.