IELTS Podcast

Ben Worthington
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IELTS Podcast

Complete tutorials for IELTS to help you improve faster and pass the exam. Visit the site for a complete range of online courses and a new improved essay correction service.

  1. 5D AGO

    Playing The IELTS Examiner

    In this podcast, our essay corrector Ellen puts YOU in the driver’s seat as you review a student’s essay with her, deciding what band score the essay should get.  With the band descriptors as your guide, you will learn * How the introduction makes a first impression on the examiner * How mistakes and missteps can influence the examiner along the way * How some strong arguments, precise vocabulary and accurate grammar can redeem your score * How important the last impression your essay leaves is In the end, you will see how challenging the task of the examiner is and all the elements they take into consideration.  This knowledge will help you to construct stronger essays. Click here for IELTS essay correction Learn more about the IELTS writing task Full online IELTS course Massive IELTS vocabulary guide Click here to read the full transcript. You can download or listen to the audio version here: |Direct Download Here | Stitcher | iTunes | Spotify | Soundcloud |

    27 min

  2. MAR 3

    IELTS Vocabulary: The Future of Public Transportation

    Public Transportation Innovations and Urban Planning Introduction Public transportation innovations and urban planning are crucial for creating sustainable, efficient cities. This article discusses how these developments can transform urban environments, providing a comprehensive overview of their impact on society. Grammar Point Covered Linking words for addition and comparison, such as ‘moreover’, ‘furthermore’, ‘similarly’, and ‘likewise’, help to extend a point or compare two elements in a discussion. These connectors are essential for structuring arguments coherently and emphasising the relationships between different ideas. Pros and Cons Regarding Public Transportation Innovations * Pros: * Reduces urban traffic congestion. * Lowers environmental pollution. * Improves accessibility to jobs and services. * Encourages economic development around transit hubs. * Increases safety in transportation through technological advances. * Enhances the quality of life by reducing travel time. * Promotes social equity by providing mobility for all socio-economic groups. * Supports healthy urban environments by reducing car dependency. * Facilitates the integration of different modes of transportation. * Contributes to the aesthetic improvement of urban areas. * Cons: * High costs of development and maintenance. * Disruptions during construction phases. * Potential for underutilisation if not properly planned. * Can be inefficient in low-density areas. * Risk of technological obsolescence with rapid advances. * May lead to gentrification near transit hubs. * Requires significant governmental planning and coordination. * Can face public resistance from car-dependent populations. * Potential privacy concerns with data collection in smart transit systems. * Long-term financial burden on public funds. Topic Specific Vocabulary Collocations * smart transit systems * integrated transport networks * green urban spaces * traffic management solutions * public mobility services * sustainable transport models * urban congestion relief * eco-friendly transportation * public transit accessibility * high-capacity transit routes Model Sentences Using the Public Transportation Collocations and Grammar Point * Integrated transport networks are essential for modern cities, and sustainable transport models further enhance urban life quality. * Smart transit systems have been developed to reduce delays; similarly, traffic management solutions help to prevent gridlock during peak hours. * Furthermore, public mobility services improve the overall accessibility of cities, while eco-friendly transportation options contribute to environmental preservation. * Moreover, the expansion of high-capacity transit routes facilitates quicker commutes, and urban congestion relief follows as a natural result. * Similarly, green urban spaces are integrated into transit planning, enhancing the aesthetic and ecological aspects of urban areas. * Despite the benefits, the high costs of smart transit systems can be prohibitive; however, the long-term savings in environmental and health costs are considerable. * Public transit accessibility is prioritised in city planning; moreover, efforts are made to ensure that these services are affordable to all residents. * While integrated transport networks are advantageous, they require extensive coordination and funding, which can be challenging for local governments. * Eco-friendly transportation initiatives are often supported by public policy; furthermore, these initiatives encourage broader participation in sustainable living practices.

    27 min

  3. FEB 23

    How to Answer Map Questions (Vocabulary List Included)

    In this tutorial, you’ll learn * How an IELTS examiner would look at one of the more usual Task 1 questions – MAPS! I love map questions but many students are unfamiliar with them and so might panic in the exam! * How to understand what is needed and what clues to look for before you start writing. * Examples of good grammar and key useful vocabulary from our review of 2 students’ essays – one Band 6 and one Band 7-7.5 as our examples. * How you can practice by looking at another kind of map question. * Really important vocabulary needed for talking about geographical location and change. Click here for IELTS essay correction Learn more about the IELTS writing task Full online IELTS course Massive IELTS vocabulary guide Click here to listen to the full tutorial: https://www.ieltspodcast.com/academic-ielts/map-description-vocabulary/ Click here to read the full transcript. You can download or listen to the audio version here: |Direct Download Here | Stitcher | iTunes | Spotify | Soundcloud |

    20 min

  4. FEB 17

    How to Generate Ideas for IELTS Writing Task 2

    How to Generate Ideas for IELTS Writing Task 2 Many IELTS students struggle with generating ideas for Writing Task 2. If you’ve ever found yourself staring at a blank page, unsure of what to write, you’re not alone. In this article, we’ll explore practical strategies to develop strong essay ideas and improve your IELTS writing score. Why Do Students Struggle with Idea Generation? As discussed in a recent IELTS Podcast episode, many students, particularly from educational systems that focus on right and wrong answers, find it challenging to develop creative or critical responses. In some cultures, education is structured around memorisation rather than independent thinking, making it difficult to brainstorm ideas in open-ended writing tasks. Strategies to Develop Essay Ideas 1. Expand Your Knowledge Base One of the best ways to generate ideas is to build your general knowledge. Read about common IELTS topics such as technology, education, and the environment. The more you know, the easier it will be to recall relevant ideas during the exam. Check out our IELTS Writing Task 2 resources to get started. 2. Use the ‘Why, What, How’ Method For any given essay question, break it down into these three components: * Why? – Why is this issue important? * What? – What are the key arguments? * How? – How can we solve this problem or support an argument? This simple framework helps you create well-structured responses quickly. 3. Consider Different Perspectives Many students struggle because they only consider one viewpoint. Instead, think of how different groups (governments, businesses, individuals) might respond to an issue. This will give you a wider range of ideas to use in your essays. 4. Practise Brainstorming Under Timed Conditions Time pressure can make it difficult to think clearly. Practise brainstorming for 5 minutes before writing a full essay. Try our online IELTS course for structured practice exercises. Overcoming ‘Blank Mind’ Syndrome Many students freeze when faced with an unfamiliar topic. To combat this: * Practise writing about a variety of IELTS topics. * Use mind maps to visually organise ideas. * Memorise key vocabulary and phrases to help structure your response. If you need feedback on your writing, consider our IELTS essay correction service. Final Thoughts Generating ideas for IELTS Writing Task 2 is a skill that improves with practice. By expanding your knowledge, using structured thinking methods, and practising regularly, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle any essay question confidently. For more IELTS tips and strategies, visit IELTSPodcast.com.

    27 min

  5. FEB 10

    IELTS Vocabulary: Mental Health Awareness

    Introduction Mental health is a critical aspect of overall well-being, yet it often remains overshadowed by physical health concerns. This article will explore the role of public awareness campaigns in changing perceptions and attitudes towards mental health issues. Grammar Point Covered Adverbial clauses to show contrast are used to highlight how two ideas differ from each other. These clauses often begin with conjunctions such as ‘although’, ‘while’, or ‘whereas’ and are crucial for adding complexity and depth to an argument by discussing opposing viewpoints or unexpected outcomes. Pros and Cons Regarding Mental Health Public Awareness Campaigns * Pros: * Increases public knowledge of mental health issues. * Reduces stigma associated with mental illness. * Encourages individuals to seek help early. * Promotes more inclusive workplace policies. * Improves funding and support for mental health services. * Supports the development of better treatment options. * Strengthens community support networks. * Raises the profile of mental health on public and political agendas. * Encourages empathy and understanding among the population. * Helps integrate mental health into primary healthcare. * Cons: * May oversimplify complex mental health conditions. * Can lead to misinformation if not well-managed. * Potential to focus too much on common disorders, neglecting rare or severe conditions. * Public campaigns may not reach all demographics effectively. * Could lead to tokenism rather than actual change in policies. * May increase public fears if negative aspects of mental illness are overemphasised. * Resources for campaigns might detract from direct service funding. * Can result in stereotype perpetuation if not carefully crafted. * Might not translate into long-term change. * Dependence on media portrayal, which can be variable in quality and accuracy. Topic Specific Vocabulary Collocations * mental health advocacy * public stigma reduction * early intervention strategies * mental health education * community support networks * treatment accessibility * awareness campaign effectiveness * healthcare policy reform * emotional wellbeing * social inclusion initiatives Model Sentences Using the Mental Health Collocations and Grammar Point * Although many people are aware of mental health education, public stigma reduction is still a significant challenge. * Whereas mental health advocacy has grown, treatment accessibility has not improved at the same rate. * While early intervention strategies are effective, they are often underfunded and undervalued by public health policies. * Even though community support networks are stronger than ever, isolation and loneliness continue to impact mental health significantly. * Whereas awareness campaign effectiveness is increasing, actual changes in healthcare policy reform are lagging behind. * Although there are numerous social inclusion initiatives, emotional wellbeing is often not prioritised in schools and workplaces. * While public stigma reduction initiatives are widespread, personal biases and misunderstandings still prevail. * Even though the importance of mental health education is recognised, many individuals lack access to quality information. * Whereas community support networks can provide significant help, many people with mental health issues go without adequate support. * Although awareness campaign effectiveness is evident, there is still a long way to go in achieving widespread healthcare policy reform. Model Essay About Mental Health Introduction Mental health awareness campaigns play a pivotal role in ...

    22 min

  6. FEB 1

    12 years of IELTS experience in 20 minutes

    Facing a blank mind during IELTS Task 2? You’re not alone. Here are practical tips from my 12 years of experience to help you excel. 1. Filling Your Brain with Ideas When your mind goes blank, it’s crucial to prepare by actively filling it with ideas. Engage in regular reading, focusing on understanding different writing styles and arguments. This helps you build a mental repository of concepts and vocabulary. 2. Building Vocabulary: Read Actively Lacking vocabulary? Read actively. Take note of new words, understand their context, and use them in sentences. This active engagement is key to expanding your vocabulary. 3. Consistency Over Quick Fixes Avoid distractions and focus on consistent practice. There are no silver bullets, just lead bullets—practical, consistent efforts that pay off over time. 4. Self-Study Techniques Can’t afford a tutor? Try copying essays by hand to learn structure and style. AI tutors, like Gliglish, can also offer valuable feedback and support. 5. Organising Ideas Struggling with organisation? Practice mindfulness and follow a structured format like introduction-body-conclusion. This clarity of thought leads to better writing. 6. Developing Fluency Improve fluency by learning and using set phrases. Start with basic expressions and gradually modify them to suit different contexts. 7. Enhancing Accuracy To improve accuracy, transcribe your work, review it in a Google Doc, and rewrite it. This iterative process sharpens your skills over time. 8. Crafting the Ideal Study Environment Create a focused study environment. Reduce distractions and consider using ambient sounds, like rain, to enhance concentration. By implementing these strategies, you can overcome the common challenges in IELTS Task 2 writing. Consistent practice and dedication are key to success. Happy studying!   You can download or listen to the audio version here: |Direct Download Here | Stitcher | iTunes | Spotify | Soundcloud |

    26 min

  7. JAN 26

    IELTS Vocabulary: The Impact of Globalisation

    Globalisation and Cultural Exchange Introduction Globalization and cultural exchange have become integral to the modern world, shaping societies and their interactions on a global scale. This article examines the impact of these phenomena on cultures and societies, using complex sentence structures to elucidate cause and effect. Grammar Point Covered Complex sentence structures for cause and effect help us to explain reasons for occurrences or the consequences of actions. Such structures often employ conjunctions like ‘because’, ‘since’, ‘as’, ‘thus’, and ‘therefore’ to clearly link causes with their effects in a coherent and nuanced way. Pros and Cons Regarding Globalization * Pros: * Cultural diversity is enriched in metropolitan hubs due to international interactions. * Increased understanding and tolerance among different cultures. * Technological innovations spread more rapidly across borders. * Global cooperation on environmental issues is facilitated. * Artistic collaboration increases, leading to new forms of creative expression. * Educational opportunities expand through international programmes. * Preservation of minority cultures can be supported internationally. * Cross-cultural dialogues enhance diplomatic relationships. * Access to a broader range of foreign products increases consumer choice. * Health innovations and practices can be shared globally. * Cons: * Cultural homogenisation may lead to the loss of local identities. * Small communities might struggle to maintain traditional values. * Rapid changes can lead to social unrest and cultural clashes. * Dependency on global systems makes local economies vulnerable. * Environmental degradation due to increased industrial activities. * Over-reliance on technology can diminish traditional skills and knowledge. * Global media might overshadow local media, limiting local expression. * International tourism can lead to cultural commodification. * Increased global mobility can lead to brain drain in less developed areas. * Erosion of national sovereignty due to supranational organisations. Topic Specific Vocabulary Collocations * cultural diversity * technological innovations * global cooperation * artistic collaboration * international programmes * cultural homogenisation * traditional values * environmental degradation * cultural commodification * brain drain Model Sentences Using the Globalization Collocations and Grammar Point * Because of global cooperation on climate change, significant advancements have been made in renewable energy technologies. * Technological innovations have spread rapidly as countries collaborate more closely on research and development. * International programmes in education have led to an increase in cultural exchange among students. * Artistic collaboration across borders enables a fusion of styles that enriches the global art scene. * Traditional values are often compromised because of the influence of global media. * Cultural diversity is enhanced as people from different backgrounds bring unique perspectives to shared environments. * Brain drain can occur because talented individuals often move to more developed countries for better opportunities. * The risk of environmental degradation increases as industrial activities expand to meet global demands. * Because of cultural commodification, local traditions can become attractions rather than living cultures. * As societies become more interconnected, cultural homogenisation becomes a growing concern. Model Essay About Globalization Introduction

    26 min

  8. JAN 1

    Jess Gets 7.5 and Goes to Australia!

    Jess’s Amazing IELTS Journey: From Struggles to Success in Australia Hello, IELTS students! Today, we’re excited to share an incredible story that will inspire you to chase your dreams. Meet Jess from Indonesia, who overcame her IELTS challenges and is now heading to Australia for her studies! Jess’s IELTS Goals Jess needed high IELTS scores to qualify for a scholarship to study in Australia. Like many of you, she found writing and speaking the trickiest parts of the test. She struggled to improve on her own and felt confused by all the tips and tricks she found online. The Turning Point Everything changed when Jess discovered the IELTS Podcast course and tools. Here’s what helped her the most: * The AI essay checker gave her detailed feedback on her writing * The speaking exam simulator boosted her confidence * Daily practice with reading and listening improved her speed and understanding Jess’s Amazing Results After using these tools and putting in hard work, Jess achieved brilliant scores: * Reading: Band 8 * Listening: Band 8 * Writing: Band 7 * Speaking: Band 7 Jess’s Top Tips for IELTS Success * Practice every day, especially for reading and listening * Use the speaking simulator to get comfortable with random topics * Focus on fixing one mistake at a time in your speaking and writing * Try using new vocabulary in your speaking practice The Dream Comes True Thanks to her hard work and the help from IELTS Podcast, Jess got accepted into Queensland University of Technology in Brisbane, Australia! She’s thrilled about starting her new adventure. Your Turn to Succeed Jess’s story shows that with the right tools and determination, you can achieve your IELTS goals too. Why not give the IELTS Podcast course a try? It could be the game-changer you need to reach your target scores and study abroad! Visit ieltspodcast.com today to start your journey to IELTS success. Who knows? You might be the next student we feature with an amazing success story!   You can download or listen to the audio version here: |Direct Download Here | Stitcher | iTunes | Spotify | Soundcloud |

    17 min
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Complete tutorials for IELTS to help you improve faster and pass the exam. Visit the site for a complete range of online courses and a new improved essay correction service.

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  • Creator
    Ben Worthington
  • Years Active
    2012 - 2025
  • Episodes
    20
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Show Website
    IELTS Podcast

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