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Title: Children's Engineering Workshops

Source: IELTS Academic 16 with Answers

Length: 7 minutes

Content: A parent calls the Children's Engineering Workshops to inquire about their workshops for their two daughters during the school holidays.

Note:

The younger daughter, Lydia, who is four, would join the "Tiny Engineers" group for children aged 4-5. This group does activities like designing protective covers for eggs and building tall towers, which involve basic engineering concepts through fun activities. The older daughter, Carly, who is seven, would be in the "Junior Engineers" group for ages 6-8. This group engages in more advanced activities, such as building and programming model vehicles and robots, and creating short animated movies. The workshops for Lydia cost £50 for five weeks and are held on Wednesdays from 10 to 11 a.m. at Building 10A in Fradstone Industrial Estate, Grasford. There is plenty of parking available. The parent decides to enrol both daughters.

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Title: Copying photos to digital format

Source: IELTS Academic 16 with Answers

Length: 6m38s

Content: Julia Simmons, the Managing Director of Stevenson's, welcomes a group of students for two weeks of work experience at the company, which is a major metal goods manufacturer.

Note:

Stevenson's was founded in 1926 by Ronald Stevenson, who initially planned to make components for the machine tools and automotive industries. However, the company first produced goods for hospitals and healthcare for five years. The company has expanded its premises over the years and is planning a major refurbishment to modernize the site.

During their work experience, the students will attend morning presentations from different department managers and spend time observing and interacting with staff across various departments. The school used to send a teacher weekly to check on the students, but this won't happen this year.

Julia provides a brief orientation around the site:

Reception Area: Where they are currently located.

Coffee Room: Down a corridor to the left from the reception, facing the main road and trees.

Factory: A large room on the far side of the site.

Warehouse: Next to the factory, accessible through the courtyard.

Staff Canteen: Next to reception; food is good, but the view is not.

Meeting Room: At the end of a corridor to the left of the courtyard, with no natural daylight.

Human Resources Department: Second room on the left from reception, facing the main road.

Boardroom: Past the courtyard, with a view of the trees.

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Title: A welcoming discourse

Source: IELTS Academic 16 with Answers

Length: 6m57s

Content: Tom and another student discuss their progress on an art project themed around birds.

Note:

At first, Tom wasn't very interested in the theme, but he is starting to engage with it. They share experiences about their research, finding various aspects like color, movement, and texture in bird art to be interesting. They both found the visit to a Bird Park unhelpful due to bad weather but appreciated the trip to the Natural History Museum and workshops with Dr. Fletcher.

Tom has drafted his project proposal but needs to revise it to add evaluations to his research notes, not just descriptions. Both students realize they need to provide a rationale for their decisions in their action plans and decide to make their project outcomes more flexible to allow for further exploration.

They also discuss the section of the project where they must analyze paintings of birds and express their personal interpretations. They share their chosen artworks, like Landseer’s falcon, Audubon's fish hawk, van Gogh’s kingfisher, and Gauguin's "Vairumati," discussing the themes of danger, motion, personal memories, and philosophical ideas like the cycle of existence. They conclude that a personal connection to the artwork can be a valuable aspect of their analysis.

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Title: A discourse about the ancient philosophy: Stoicism

Source: IELTS Academic 16 with Answers

Length: 8m25s

Content: Stoicism, an ancient philosophy founded by Zeno of Citium in the 3rd century BC

Note:

Practised by notable figures like Epictetus, Cato, Seneca, and Marcus Aurelius. Stoicism emphasizes practical application, focusing on achieving happiness through virtue and controlling destructive emotions like anger and jealousy. As Epictetus said, while we can't control external events, we can control our responses to them.

Stoicism teaches transforming negative experiences into opportunities for growth. It has influenced many leaders, thinkers, and writers throughout history, such as George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Eugène Delacroix, Adam Smith, and modern figures like Bill Clinton and Wen Jiabao. The philosophy has also impacted fields like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, which helps people manage problems by changing their thinking and behavior.

In modern times, Stoicism remains relevant, particularly in business, where its principles help build resilience and turn obstacles into opportunities. At its core, Stoicism advocates controlling what we can and accepting what we can't, emphasizing a disciplined and principled character as the foundation of a good life.

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Title: Picturerep

Source: IELTS Academic 16 with Answers

Length: 3m56s

Content: A customer calls Picturerep to inquire about their service for converting old family photos to digital format.

Note:

The representative explains that they can handle photos ranging from 4 to 30 centimeters in size, but the photos must be removed from frames and albums before sending them in. The cost for converting 300-400 photos is £195, including one disk, with additional disks costing £5 each. Payment is only required after the photos have been copied.

The customer also asks if the photos can be organized into groups on the disk, and the representative confirms this, with the option to name each folder. They also offer services to improve photo quality by adjusting color and contrast, and can make alterations like removing objects or changing backgrounds, though they can't fix out-of-focus photos. The process takes about ten days, and they recommend using a strong cardboard box for sending photos. The customer agrees to prepare the photos and send them in.

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Source: IELTS Academic 16 with Answers

Length: 5m29s

Content: The speaker updates parents about upcoming changes at their children's school.

Note:

The school buildings vary in age, with Dartfield House, a central part of the school, over a century old. The lower school site will be moved to new buildings on the main site, and the old site will be developed into housing.

A new Food Hall will open next week to replace the overcrowded canteen. The Food Hall will have multiple serving points, each offering different types of healthy food, including international cuisines and vegetarian options. Parents are encouraged to discuss meal choices with their children to streamline the lunch process. The old canteen will remain as an eating area and may partially be used for storage in the future.

The school will also expand its after-school activities, adding drama classes to its offerings and continuing popular options like swimming and off-road cycling. A new grand piano, donated by a former student, will allow some students to learn piano on-site rather than going to the local college.

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Source: IELTS Academic 16 with Answers

Length: 4m38s

Content: Two students, Luke and his classmate, discuss their next psychology assignment on sleep and dreams.

Note:

They talk about an article explaining why we forget dreams to avoid confusing them with real memories. They also discuss the idea that dreams can predict the future, concluding it's likely coincidental rather than prophetic.

They mention "segmented sleeping," a theory suggesting people used to wake up in the middle of the night before going back to sleep. Luke tried it but gave up after a week as it didn't fit his lifestyle. They also talk about an experiment on the appropriate age for children to stop napping, which did not yield conclusive results.

They then plan their assignment, deciding to research the relationship between sleep duration and the number of dreams. They plan to use self-reporting with a paper questionnaire filled out immediately upon waking. They decide to use non-psychology students, possibly history students, as participants. They discuss ethical guidelines, risk assessments, and ensuring participants aren't stressed. They conclude by planning to analyze their data for correlation and evaluate their research.

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Source: IELTS Academic 16 with Answers

Length: 6m08s

Content: Dancing is a universal activity that not only makes people feel good but is also highly beneficial for health. Like other exercises, dancing releases dopamine, reducing stress and anxiety.

Note:

It is also sociable, making it even more enjoyable when done in groups rather than alone. Research shows that dancing can boost creativity, making it a useful therapy for mental health issues like depression.

Dancing benefits older adults significantly, promoting heart health, balance, and cognitive functions such as memory and concentration. It encourages social interaction, which reduces isolation among the elderly.

Zumba, a popular dance-based aerobic workout, burns significant calories and is enjoyed by participants, encouraging consistent attendance. Though it may not match high-intensity workouts in fitness gains, dancing is an enjoyable way to stay fit and is likely to continue growing in popularity.

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Source: IELTS Academic 16 with Answers

Length: 5m27s

Content: A parent called to inquire about a summer cycle camp for their 7-year-old son, Charlie.

Note:

The camp, designed for children ages 3 and up, focuses on basic cycling skills and safety across eight levels. Charlie would likely fit into Level 5, where kids start cycling in a park before moving to roads.

The camp has small classes with a maximum of eight children per class, allowing instructors to provide personalized attention. Instructors, who wear blue shirts, are trained to work with children, while supervisors in red shirts oversee the camp.

Classes run daily from 9:30 to 12:30, with the first day starting at 9:20 for helmet checks. Activities continue even in the rain, so children should bring spare clothes and a snack, but drinks are provided. The cost of the camp is $199 per week.

The parent was satisfied with the details and considered booking a spot for Charlie.

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Source: IELTS Academic 16 with Answers

Length: 4m38s

Content: The presentation was given by Megan Baker, a recruitment consultant at AVT Recruitment Specialists.

Note:

AVT specializes in recruiting for jobs in the agriculture and horticulture sectors, such as fresh food production, garden, and park maintenance. These jobs offer flexible hours for those with responsibilities like childcare and provide opportunities to work in rural settings with health benefits from outdoor work. However, they may involve working in remote areas and dealing with challenging weather conditions.

Megan highlighted several current job openings:

1. Fresh Food Commercial Manager: For a large fresh food producer supplying top supermarkets. It requires working in a fast-paced environment with low profit margins.

2. Agronomist: Advises farmers on crop nutrition, pest protection, and agricultural legislation. Offers strong career growth opportunities but requires deep agricultural knowledge.

3. Fresh Produce Buyer: A 12-month maternity cover position at a leading supermarket. Requires experience in administration, planning, and buying within the fresh produce industry.

4. Sales Manager for Garden Centres: Oversees customer service in regional garden centres. Requires relocation to the region.

5. Tree Technician: Involves tree cutting, forestry, and conservation work. Requires a clean driving licence and training in safety procedures; experience is preferred but not essential.

6. Farm Worker: Duties include crop sowing and harvesting, machine maintenance, and animal care. Offers perks like renting a cottage on the estate. A driving licence and tractor experience are necessary.

These roles provide varied career paths, some with potential for international travel and competitive salaries.

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Source: IELTS Academic 16 with Answers

Length: 4m26s

Content: Rosie and her partner discussed their presentation on diet and obesity.

Note:

They discussed two experiments that Rosie conducted:

1. Sugar vs. Artificial Sweeteners Experiment: People were given drinks with either sugar or artificial sweeteners and asked to identify which was which. Surprisingly, most participants could tell the difference.

2. Measuring Fat Content in Nuts Experiment: This experiment aimed to check if the nutritional information on nut packaging was accurate. The results showed a lower fat content than stated on the package, likely due to not grinding the nuts enough or inaccurate scales.

They then brainstormed ideas for addressing obesity:

Menu Placement: Placing low-calorie items at the beginning and end of menus in restaurants could lead people to choose healthier options unconsciously.

Clearer Calorie Labels: Current calorie labels can be confusing, leading people to underestimate their intake.

They also discussed promoting exercise as a solution to obesity:

Encouraging Stair Use: Modifying the environment, like placing stairs before escalators in stations and making stairs wider, can increase physical activity without people consciously realizing it.

However, they decided to narrow their presentation's focus to nutrition-related causes and solutions, as their tutor suggested, and plan the structure and slides for their presentation.

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Source: IELTS Academic 16 with Answers

Length: 5m53s

Content: The speaker discusses the long history and global presence of knitting, practised in various countries.

Note:

Knitting is often associated with an elderly person, like a grandmother, but contrary to its image as an outdated activity, knitting is experiencing a resurgence in popularity. People are increasingly taking knitting classes, leading to a rise in knitting equipment sales.

Reasons for Knitting's Popularity:

1. Economic Benefits: Knitting can save money, especially for families needing warm clothing.

2. Well-being and Stress Relief: Knitting offers a break from the digital world, providing a sense of relaxation and fulfilment.

Historical Insights:

The origins of knitting are unknown, but evidence shows early knitted items, such as socks and gloves, were made using four or five needles and materials like wood or bone. Modern knitting typically uses two needles made of steel or plastic.

Early yarns were rough and made from linen, hemp, cotton, and wool. The spinning wheel's invention allowed for finer wool yarns, popular for their warmth.

Knitting styles varied by region, helping researchers identify the origins and occupations of wearers.

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Source: IELTS Academic 16 with Answers

Length: 4m23s

Content: Tom calls to inquire about renting a cottage from Shirley Fitzgerald, who co-owns the cottages with her husband.

Note:

Tom's friends had previously rented Granary Cottage, and he hopes to book it for a week starting May 14th. However, it's already booked, and the only available week in May is the one starting on the 28th, costing £550, which exceeds Tom's budget of £500.

Shirley suggests Chervil Cottage, a newly converted, smaller cottage available for the week Tom wants for £480. She provides details about the cottage: it has a double bedroom, a garden accessed through French doors, and a spacious parking area. The kitchen has a fridge-freezer and an electric cooker. There’s also a washing machine, a TV with DVD capabilities, and a shower instead of a bath. The cottage is heated with central heating and a wood-burning stove, with wood provided. Tom likes the idea of the cozy fire and the views of the stone bridge and hills from the cottage.

Tom decides to book Chervil Cottage and agrees to pay a 30% deposit (£144) to secure the booking, with the rest due by the end of March.

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Source: IELTS Academic 16 with Answers

Length: 4m08s

Content: Councillor Thornton presented updates on traffic, highways, and proposals for the recreation ground.

Note:

Traffic and Highways:

A recent survey showed general satisfaction with road conditions, though potholes and the increasing number of heavy vehicles were concerns.

The reduced train service surprisingly didn’t result in many complaints.

The cycle path by the river is popular, but issues with overtaking will be addressed by widening it. There are plans to extend the path through the town.

Plans for a pedestrian crossing near the Post Office have been delayed due to safety concerns.

Signs have been installed near the station to encourage drivers to turn off their engines while waiting, reducing fumes for pedestrians.

The station will provide bike racks to address the problem of cyclists chaining bikes to railings.

Recreation Ground Improvements:

A new car park is proposed next to the Community Hall for pedestrian safety.

The cricket pitch will be relocated to a safer area away from the road.

A children’s playground will be built near the river, accessible via a footpath from the Community Hall.

The skateboard ramp will stay near the road, and the pavilion will remain near the football and cricket pitches.

A new notice board will be placed at the entrance of the recreation ground for local information.

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Source: IELTS Academic 16 with Answers

Length: 4m40s

Content: The discussion centres on organizing a report about global bike-sharing schemes.

Note:

It begins by noting the benefits, such as convenience and health improvements from increased cycling, but also acknowledges drawbacks like costs and limited impact on noise pollution. Recommendations include investing in functional apps, considering the role of competition, and ensuring a strong publicity campaign.

Examples discussed include:

Amsterdam: One of the earliest adopters with high usage due to a strong cycling culture.

Dublin: A success due to its low cost, despite a decent public transport network.

London: Successful but criticized for slow expansion of cycle lanes.

Buenos Aires: Notable for effective planning and supporting infrastructure.

New York: Criticized for high costs and poor planning.

Sydney: Surprising underperformance, with unclear reasons.

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Source: IELTS Academic 16 with Answers

Length: 6m33s

Content: The dodo, a large flightless bird native to Mauritius, became extinct shortly after European arrival in the 16th century.

Note:

Initially, Portuguese sailors used Mauritius as a stopover, but it was the Dutch settlers in 1638 who began hunting the dodo for meat. Descriptions and depictions of the dodo are inconsistent, with surviving evidence being limited to a few bones and one complete skeleton.

Recent scientific research has challenged earlier beliefs about the dodo, revealing it may have been faster and more agile than previously thought. It also had a brain size comparable to intelligent pigeons and a keen sense of smell. Despite this, the dodo went extinct less than 200 years after European contact.

Previously, it was believed that overhunting was the primary cause of extinction, but scientists now think the introduction of non-native species, like rats, dogs, and monkeys, played a significant role. Rats, in particular, consumed dodo eggs, impacting reproduction. However, the main cause of extinction is now thought to be habitat destruction due to the introduction of agriculture, which led to the clearing of the island's forests.

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Source: IELTS Academic 17 with Answers

Length: 4m04s

Content: Jan, who recently moved to the area, contacts Peter, the secretary of the Buckworth Conservation Group, to learn about their activities and events.

Note:

Peter explains that the group is involved in regular beach clean-ups (though dogs aren’t allowed on the beach) and maintaining paths in a nature reserve. They also work on biodiversity projects, such as installing bird nesting boxes and encouraging insect populations. Other activities include butterfly species identification and repairing storm-damaged structures.

Peter mentions upcoming events, including a guided walk to Ruston Island, where participants can see seals, and a one-day woodwork session in Hopton Wood, suitable for beginners. The group charges a small fee for the woodwork session, which includes lunch. Jan expresses interest in joining both the walk and the woodwork event and confirms they'd like to become a member of the group.

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Source: IELTS Academic 17 with Answers

Length: 4m30s

Content: Lou Miller, the tour guide, welcomes passengers aboard a small boat for a tour of the Tasmanian coast.

Note:

The boat holds 18 people, including three staff members. Lou informs the group about the boat’s design, seating arrangement, and safety measures. Passengers are offered a choice of three lunchboxes, and staff will collect any litter during the trip.

The tour highlights include:

Ancient lighthouse: Built in 1838 after several shipwrecks, located in a remote area on the cliffs.

Wildlife sightings: Penguins, though shy, may be seen, along with sea eagles, fur seals (which are often curious), dolphins, and potentially orca whales.

Caves and rock formations: The group will pass by Tasmania's famous caves, which are accessible only by sea. Kayaking tours for a closer view are available on another day.

Lou also provides historical and ecological insights throughout the journey.

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Source: IELTS Academic 17 with Answers

Length: 5m01s

Content: Tim and Diana discuss their work experience on farms, highlighting the challenges and learning experiences.

Note:

Tim found it difficult to arrange his placement, which was far from home, but stayed on the farm. His farm specialized in livestock, especially sheep, and he helped deliver a lamb and observed a vet treat an injured lamb. Diana also worked with sheep, focusing on the Suffolk breed, while her farm also had dairy cows. She made a mistake with the milk, mixing antibiotic-treated milk with regular milk. Both noted the use of supplements for animals and the farmer’s ability to handle minor veterinary tasks themselves.

They then reflect on last term’s modules. Tim struggled with medical terminology, while Diana found diet and nutrition disappointing due to limited checks on pet food. They were both impressed by the module on animal diseases in domesticated animals and found the wildlife medication unit, particularly concerning oil spills, very interesting. Diana considers writing her dissertation on that topic.

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Source: IELTS Academic 17 with Answers

Length: 4m55s

Content: Labyrinths

Note:

Labyrinths have been present for over 4,000 years, found in places like Turkey, Greece, and India. Unlike mazes, which involve confusing paths and dead ends, labyrinths have a single, spiralling path leading to a central point, making it impossible to get lost. Historically, labyrinths symbolized life’s journey and had spiritual and meditative purposes. Examples range from ancient stone carvings to Roman mosaics and walking labyrinths in Europe. Recently, labyrinths have seen a revival, used in wellness centres, hospitals, and prisons for their calming and healing effects. Studies suggest walking a labyrinth can reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, though scientific support remains limited.

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Source: IELTS Academic 17 with Answers

Length: 5m14s

Content: Frank Pritchard calls Jane Fairbanks

Note:

Frank Pritchard, a recent retiree, calls Jane Fairbanks, the coordinator for volunteers in Southoe, to inquire about opportunities to help in the village. Jane suggests several roles, including assisting with the village library by collecting books updating records, and driving elderly residents to events or appointments. Frank is also invited to help with social events, such as providing refreshments for a quiz night, checking tickets at a 1930s-themed dance, and creating a poster for a New Year's Eve party at a nearby hotel. Frank agrees to help in these roles, particularly utilizing his graphic design skills for the poster.

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Source: IELTS Academic 17 with Answers

Length: 5m09s

Content: Nick, a guide at Oniton Hall, gives an overview of the estate.

Note:

The house was rebuilt in the 17th century by Sir Edward Downes, who sought a peaceful retreat from politics and hosted artists and writers. Visitors can experience the lives of 19th-century servants through volunteers reenacting their roles. The estate offers activities for children, including dressing up, a playground, and child-sized tractors. The farm features historic buildings, agricultural tools, a barn with animals for grooming, and a shop selling wool products. Visitors can enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides around the parkland, which also houses rare breeds of cattle and sheep.

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Source: IELTS Academic 17 with Answers

Length: 4m21s

Content: Gemma and her friend discuss their experiences watching performances of Romeo and Juliet and how to approach their review assignment.

Note:

They agree the focus should be on the production's effectiveness, rather than summarizing the story, as it's well-known. Key aspects they mention include the emotional impact, the handling of important scenes, and the director’s use of space. They praised the stunning set design but had mixed feelings about the lighting, costumes, and music. They also critique the actors' fast-paced delivery. Watching different versions made them realize the play's ongoing relevance, especially the tensions between teenagers and parents. They also reflect on the play's universal appeal, with themes and characters that resonate globally and allow for creative interpretation.

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Source: IELTS Academic 17 with Answers

Length: 4m32s

Content: In this lecture, the speaker discusses the impact of digital technology on world languages, focusing on Icelandic.

Note:

Icelandic, is spoken by around 321,000 people. Icelandic has evolved little over time but continues to create new words for modern concepts rather than borrowing from other languages. However, the increasing use of English in the digital world, especially among young Icelanders, is posing a threat to the language. Many young people are more comfortable using English, even in school settings, leading to concerns about Icelandic's future. While the government is investing in language technology to promote Icelandic in digital spaces, it faces challenges due to the language's small number of speakers and complex grammar. Despite Icelandic's strong official status, there's concern that younger generations may lose their fluency, potentially affecting their sense of identity and self-expression.

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Source: IELTS Academic 17 with Answers

Length: 4m12s

Content: A person seeks advice from Jack about taking their family on a surfing holiday in Ireland.

Note:

Jack, an experienced surfer, highly recommends it, mentioning that surfing is great for all ages and abilities. He suggests several surfing locations, including County Donegal, Lahinch in County Clare, and Carrowniskey Beach in County Mayo. Jack emphasizes that Lahinch is family-friendly with good waves, lively town life, and excellent surf schools. He also mentions that Carrowniskey Beach offers a summer surf camp for kids. While weather in Ireland can be unpredictable, Jack notes that surfing in the rain is possible, and the best time for warm water is September. He advises about equipment rental costs (around 30 euros per day or discounts for weekly rentals) and the importance of high-quality wetsuits and boots to stay warm.

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Source: IELTS Academic 17 with Answers

Length: 5m09s

Content: Mrs. Carter provides an overview of the before and after-school childcare service for children aged 4 to 11.

Note:

The service, available both during term time and holidays, offers flexible hours with costs ranging from £3.50 for one hour to £7.20 for a full afternoon (including snacks and meals). Activities include playground time, computer access, and special activities like Spanish lessons, music sessions, painting, and cooking. The service also offers a holiday program with a variety of activities. There’s an emphasis on safety, value, and ensuring children are well-cared for in a fun and engaging environment.

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Source: IELTS Academic 17 with Answers

Length: 5m12s

Content: Holly discusses her upcoming work placement with Dr. Green.

Note:

Holly will be managing a sports competition for primary school children at Orion Stadium. Dr. Green emphasizes key responsibilities like ensuring safety, managing the grounds, preventing interference from spectators, and handling unexpected delays or injuries. They also talk about essential skills Holly will develop: communication (including face-to-face interactions), organization (handling last-minute changes), time management (staying calm under pressure), creativity (filling in details for clients’ ideas), leadership (making final decisions), and networking to build future career opportunities. Holly is encouraged to remain focused on her ambitions throughout the placement.

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Source: IELTS Academic 17 with Answers

Length: 5m28s

Content: Scientists have long studied bird migration, discovering that most birds migrate in various ways.

Note:

Some travel short distances seasonally, while others, like the Arctic Tern, make long journeys between poles. Early theories about migration included birds hibernating underwater or hiding in mud, which were debunked in the 1940s. Aristotle proposed that birds changed species with the seasons, a misunderstanding based on observations of red stars and robins. Charles Morton bizarrely suggested birds migrated to the moon. A key breakthrough came in 1822 when a stork with an African spear was found, proving that storks wintered in Africa. The practice of bird ringing, initiated by Hans Christian Cornelius Mortensen, allowed scientists to track migration patterns accurately, revealing the actual winter destinations of birds and leading to more detailed studies in the 20th century.

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Source: IELTS Academic 17 with Answers

Length: 3m41s

Content: Jacinta from Easy Life Cleaning Services discussed their domestic cleaning options.

Note:

For a one-bedroom flat, a basic cleaning package includes thoroughly cleaning all surfaces, floors, kitchen, and bathroom, typically taking about two hours. Additional services include weekly fridge cleaning and ironing clothes, with optional monthly services like window cleaning and balcony washing. They also offer general maintenance contacts for plumbing and electrical issues and a special vacuum system for improving air quality. Their cleaners undergo security checks, training, and performance reviews. Jacinta confirmed that clients usually consistently have the same cleaner.

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Source: IELTS Academic 17 with Answers

Length: 5m33s

Content: High staff turnover is a common issue in the hotel industry, often caused by low wages, long hours, and inadequate training.

Note:

This turnover increases recruitment efforts, managerial burdens, and negative impacts on the remaining staff. To address this, hotels can improve staff retention by avoiding favouritism, offering fair shift choices, and investing in staff training and conditions.

For example:

Dunwich Hotel reduced complaints and increased customer spending by improving staff training and conditions.

Sun Club started valuing staff opinions by involving them in meetings.

Portland introduced a talent recognition scheme to encourage staff to stay.

Bluewater rewards high achievers with all-expenses-paid trips abroad, incorporating learning opportunities.

Pentlow Hotels launched a management program for junior reception staff to provide career prospects.

Green Planets supports staff with childcare vouchers.

The Amesbury, led by Louise Marsh, achieves high retention rates through a supportive work environment.

Implementing these strategies can help hotels reduce turnover and foster a more stable and motivated workforce.

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Source: IELTS Academic 17 with Answers

Length: 4m42s

Content: Thomas, a sports science student, initially aimed to become a professional athlete but faced a reality check during a training stint in Kenya.

Note:

This led him to pursue a university course in sports science, which he finds promising due to its variety.

For the upcoming discussion on technology and sport, Thomas and Jeanne brainstorm ideas. They consider historical innovations in sports equipment:

Table Tennis: Early bats were wooden; the addition of pimpled rubber in the 1920s revolutionized them.

Cricket: The first helmet, introduced in 1978, was initially criticized but is now standard.

Cycling: Early helmets were rudimentary; modern designs include ventilation for comfort.

Golf: Clubs were originally wooden and prone to breaking; today's clubs are made of more durable materials.

Football: Early balls made of animal skin absorbed water and became heavy when wet, causing injuries.

These historical developments illustrate the evolution of sports technology and its impact on player safety and performance.

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Source: IELTS Academic 17 with Answers

Length: 6m

Content: The discussion focuses on maple syrup, a natural sweetener made from the sap of maple trees.

Note:

Unlike honey, which is produced by bees, maple syrup is a golden, thick liquid obtained by tapping maple trees, primarily in Canada and the northeastern United States, where the climate is ideal for its production.

Key Points:

1. Maple Syrup Production:

Origins: Indigenous peoples first produced maple sugar by collecting sap from maple trees and boiling it with hot rocks.

Modern Production: Today, the sap is collected by drilling holes in mature trees (about 40 years old) and using tubes and buckets. The sap, which is mostly water, is boiled in large pans called evaporators to evaporate the water and concentrate the syrup. The syrup is then filtered to remove impurities before packaging.

2. Conditions for Maple Trees:

Maple trees need specific conditions: plenty of moisture, full or partial sunlight, and very cool nights to produce sap.

3. Production Facts:

Canada produces over two-thirds of the world's maple syrup.

It takes about 40 litres of sap to produce one litre of syrup.

Maple syrup is a natural product with no preservatives or added ingredients, making it a healthier alternative to refined sugar.

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Source: IELTS Academic 18 with Answers

Length: 3m51s

Content: A survey on transport.

Note:

Personal Details: Sadie Jones, born in 1991, lives in Harborne (postcode DW307YZ).

Travel Details:

Date of Trip: April 25th.

Reason for Trip: Visited the dentist and did some shopping.

Mode of Transport: Used the bus for convenience and cost reasons.

Bus Experience: Generally satisfied with the bus service; finds it quick and convenient but mentioned it was late by about 10 minutes on this occasion. Also, note that evening buses are infrequent.

Starting Point: Bus stop on Claxby Street.

Car and Bicycle Use:

Car: Owns a car but uses it infrequently, mostly for supermarket trips; husband uses it on weekends.

Bicycle: Does not currently own a bicycle but is interested in getting one for commuting. Currently, doesn’t use city bikes due to pollution concerns and lack of storage space in her flat.

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Source: IELTS Academic 18 with Answers

Length: 4m21s

Content: Volunteering with ACE.

Note:

Introduction: Welcoming attendees and introducing ACE, which supports local people and services. The meeting will last about half an hour.

Eligibility and Training:

Volunteers can be as young as 16 or over 60, depending on the role.

Reliability is key, not age.

Training is extensive, face-to-face, and ongoing, often led by experienced volunteers.

Considerations:

Volunteers should have enough time to commit without stress.

Financial concerns are not relevant; dedication is what matters.

Volunteer Opportunities:

Fundraising: Creative fundraising ideas are welcome.

Litter Collection: Requires the ability to walk long distances, sometimes uphill.

Playmates: Working with children to promote healthy living; knowledge of nutrition is helpful.

Story Club for Disabled Children: Help with performances; acting experience is a plus.

First Aid: Initial focus on learning and attention to detail; potential to teach others in vulnerable groups.

Conclusion: Open floor for any questions from the attendees.

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Source: IELTS Academic 18 with Answers

Length: 4m16s

Content: conversation between Chantal and Hugo about the talk they attended.

Note:

Chantal’s Experience:

Initially had a poor view due to a tall person blocking her view but found the talk interesting after moving seats.

Found the speaker’s insights on the job market compelling, especially the variety of career options in the industry, like fashion journalism.

Speaker’s Approach:

The speaker provided a strong, sometimes harsh perspective on the industry, challenging common assumptions.

Chantal and Hugo felt the speaker was blunt, possibly to counter students’ narrow views on the industry.

Career Reflections:

Chantal is considering focusing on a specific area within the industry rather than keeping an open mind throughout.

Hugo remains hopeful about not being an unpaid assistant for too long, despite the speaker’s views.

Impact of the Speaker’s Story:

Chantal was struck by the speaker’s story about working as a personal dresser for a musician, where she initially sought experience rather than financial gain.

The speaker’s experience made Chantal reflect on the importance of focusing on the client rather than personal appearance.

Advice and Observations:

The speaker recommended gaining retail experience to understand market needs and consumer behaviour.

Chantal and Hugo discussed how working in retail could reveal important insights into consumer preferences and issues like product quality.

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Source: IELTS Academic 18 with Answers

Length: 6m05s

Content: The presentation on elephant translocation

Note:

Purpose of Translocation:

The presentation discusses the translocation of elephants from Majete National Park to Nkhotakota Wildlife Park in Malawi. This was done to address overpopulation in Majete due to a successful anti-poaching effort and subsequent population boom.

Challenges:

Overpopulation led to competition for food and damage to park infrastructure as elephants knocked down fences. The solution was to relocate elephants to a new reserve 300 kilometres away.

Process:

Elephants were moved in family groups. Vets and park rangers used helicopters to round up and dart the elephants, ensuring they were carefully monitored and kept in a safe position during sedation. Collars were fitted to track their movements, and measurements of tusks and feet were taken for safety.

Outcome:

The translocation was successful. The elephants adapted well to their new home in Nkhotakota Wildlife Park, which has ample space and has seen a population increase, including over two dozen births.

Benefits:

The project has positively impacted local communities by creating jobs, reducing poaching, and boosting tourism. The presence of elephants has improved the ecosystem and provided a model for other conservation efforts.

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Source: IELTS Academic 18 with Answers

Length: 4m34s

Content: A job interview for restaurant work.

Note:

The interviewer discusses two job vacancies at Milo's Restaurants, emphasizing their employee benefits, including training, staff discounts, and transport assistance after late shifts. They review specific job openings:

1. Breakfast Supervisor at Wivenhoe Street: Responsibilities include portion control and equipment cleaning, with a starting wage of £9.75 per hour, rising to £11.25 after three months. The hours are early, starting at 5:30 a.m. and finishing at 12:30 p.m.

2. Junior Chef at City Road: A role supporting senior chefs and managing stock and deliveries, with a £23,000 annual salary and potential for quick promotion. The hours involve evenings and weekends, with occasional Sundays off.

The applicant shows interest in both roles, especially the junior chef position.

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Source: IELTS Academic 18 with Answers

Length: 5m05s

Content: Mark Reynolds, the Communications Manager for a new housing development near Nunston, provides an overview of the project.

Note:

The site, currently farmland, was chosen due to the demand for housing from employees working in the new industrial centre. The location's proximity to a hospital and school, though on a steep slope, adds to its appeal. The development will include 400 houses, three apartment blocks, a primary school, a sports centre, a clinic, a community centre, and a supermarket. There will also be a playground, specially designed homes for seniors, and facilities for cyclists. The layout blends with natural features, including tree protection, and has received positive community feedback.

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Source: IELTS Academic 18 with Answers

Length: 4m46s

Content: Michelle and Adam are preparing a presentation on the 1783 Laki volcanic eruption.

Note:

They find the event both significant and fascinating due to its devastating social, economic, and political consequences. The eruption spread a volcanic haze across Europe, which led to unusual weather and health problems. Primary sources from the time provide consistent accounts of the event, with notable figures like Benjamin Franklin and naturalists observing the phenomenon. The eruption had a wide-ranging impact: in Iceland, livestock died from eating contaminated vegetation; Egypt experienced famine due to disrupted weather patterns; and both the UK and USA saw severe weather changes, leading to high mortality rates and unusual climate events. Their presentation will focus on these varied consequences.

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Source: IELTS Academic 18 with Answers

Length: 4m26s

Content: The development of pockets in European fashion

Note:

The presentation focuses on the development of pockets in European fashion, particularly comparing men's and women's pockets. In the 18th century, men's suits had pockets sewn into the lining of breeches, waistcoats, and jackets, allowing men to carry small items conveniently. These pockets were either decorative or practical, depending on the wearer’s profession. Women's pockets, however, were less accessible and hidden beneath their skirts. They used tie-on fabric pockets worn under clothing for security, especially to protect valuable possessions. As fashion changed in the late 19th century, tighter dresses made hidden pockets impractical, leading to the rise of small bags and eventually handbags, as pockets disappeared from women's clothing.

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Source: IELTS Academic 18 with Answers

Length: 4m40s

Content: Dan Green called the Wayside Camera Club to join as a member

Note:

He expressed interest in participating in photography competitions and socializing with other photographers. He opted for full membership (£30/year) to gain voting rights in meetings.

Dan discussed his experience with past competitions:

1. Domestic Life: He photographed a family meal but received feedback that the composition was too "busy."

2. Sunsets: He captured a coastal sunset with clouds but was told the timing of the shot was off.

3. Animal Magic: He photographed a fox at night, but the image was criticized for being too dark.

The club welcomed Dan and expressed confidence in helping him improve his photography skills.

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Source: IELTS Academic 18 with Answers

Length: 5m27s

Content: Dan Beagle, author of a new book on foraging, gave a talk on safely picking wild mushrooms.

Note:

Dan debunked myths about mushroom color and smell, noting that bright colors can be safe and that smell doesn't indicate toxicity. For beginners, he recommended guided foraging with experts rather than relying solely on photos or apps. He highlighted conservation by picking responsibly and warned that local development has harmed mushroom habitats.

For storage, Dan suggested keeping mushrooms in a paper bag in the fridge and cooking them promptly. He encouraged trying wild mushrooms in various dishes but recommended moderation to avoid adverse reactions.

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Source: IELTS Academic 18 with Answers

Length: 3m49s

Content: A seminar on automation and the future of work explored the parallels between the 19th-century industrial revolution and current technological changes.

Note:

The future outlook was optimistic, envisioning robots taking over repetitive tasks, potentially reducing unemployment and increasing leisure time. However, skepticism arose about longer working hours and the need for extended careers due to rising life expectancy.

The seminar examined job evolution, such as accountants, whose demand has increased despite technological advancements making them more efficient, and hairdressers, whose numbers have grown due to higher earning power. Conversely, bank clerks face decline due to ATMs and automation. Care work is predicted to grow significantly as lifespans increase, while agriculture now employs less than 0.2% of the population, down from 25% in 1871. The changing responsibilities and higher status of administrative roles were also noted.

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Source: IELTS Academic 18 with Answers

Length: 4m56s

Content: The lecture focused on the need for a Space Traffic Management (STM) system to prevent collisions between satellites and space debris in Earth's increasingly crowded orbit.

Note:

Unlike air traffic control, no effective global STM system currently exists due to several challenges:

1. Satellite Proliferation: Satellites are cheaper and launched in larger constellations, making space busier.

2. Lack of Identification: Satellites are not required to send identifying data back to Earth.

3. Space Debris: Small, hard-to-track debris poses a significant threat.

4. Reluctance to Share Data: Military and commercial operators often withhold satellite information.

5. Tracking Limitations: Satellites move too fast for continuous tracking, relying on predictive methods.

Proposed solutions include:

Establishing global standards for information sharing and creating a centralized database.

Enhancing coordination among operators while building trust at national and international levels.

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Source: IELTS Academic 18 with Answers

Length: 3m56s

Content: Greg Preston from an employment agency called Julie Davison to inform her about a potential receptionist position at a medical center in Fordham

Note:

The role involves handling patient inquiries, scheduling appointments, updating the database, and performing general administrative tasks in a busy environment. The center seeks someone experienced, calm under pressure, confident with the public, and skilled in IT—qualities Julie possesses.

The position is temporary, running from the beginning of next month to the end of September, with potential for extension. Hours are 7:45 AM to 1:15 PM, which suits Julie's childcare arrangements. The center provides parking and is accessible by bus. Julie expressed interest, and Greg will forward her CV and references, suggesting she contact the center to arrange an interview.