✦ IELTS Topic: Boats & Sailing – 10 Useful Phrases

1. Set sail
   e.g., We set sail just after sunrise for a day trip around the islands.

2. Calm waters
   e.g., The boat moved smoothly across the calm waters.

3. Rough seas
   e.g., The ferry was delayed due to rough seas and strong winds.

4. Sailing trip
   e.g., We booked a weekend sailing trip along the coast.

5. Anchor the boat
   e.g., We anchored the boat near a small beach and went for a swim.

6. Crew members
   e.g., The crew members helped us get settled and explained the safety rules.

7. Luxury yacht
   e.g., They rented a luxury yacht for their honeymoon cruise.

8. Fishing boat
   e.g., The harbour was filled with colourful fishing boats returning at dawn.

9. On board
   e.g., There were around twenty passengers on board the tour boat.

10. Dock at the harbour
    e.g., We returned to dock at the harbour just before sunset.

---

✦ IELTS Speaking Practice – Boats & Sailing

Part 1: Introduction & Interview

1. Have you ever travelled by boat?

2. Are boats common in your area?

3. Would you enjoy going on a sailing trip?

4. Have you ever experienced rough weather at sea?

5. Do you prefer travelling on water or on land?

---

Part 2: Cue Card

Describe a time you travelled by boat or ship.
You should say:

• where you went

• what kind of boat it was

• what you did on the journey
  and explain how you felt about the experience.

---

✦ Sample Answers Using the Phrases

Part 1 Answers

1. Yes, I once took a sailing trip while on holiday in Greece.
2. Not really — we’re far from the coast, but there are a few fishing boats on the local river.
3. Definitely! I love the idea of being on board a small yacht in calm waters.
4. Yes, we hit rough seas on a ferry once. It was a bit scary!
5. I prefer land travel, but boats give a unique perspective.

---

Part 2 Sample Answer

A few years ago, I went on a half-day sailing trip while visiting Croatia. We set sail from a small town and spent the day exploring nearby islands.

The boat was a small luxury yacht, and there were about ten people on board. The crew members were helpful and told us about the local area.

The water was beautiful — completely calm — and we even stopped to anchor the boat so we could swim and have lunch.

At the end of the day, we docked at the harbour just as the sun was setting. It was peaceful, beautiful, and truly memorable.

---

✦ Comprehension Test: Boats & Sailing

1. "We set sail just after sunrise for a day trip around the islands."
Q: When did they leave?

2. "The boat moved smoothly across the calm waters."
Q: What was the water like?

3. "The ferry was delayed due to rough seas and strong winds."
Q: Why was the ferry delayed?

4. "We booked a weekend sailing trip along the coast."
Q: What kind of holiday did they choose?

5. "We anchored the boat near a small beach and went for a swim."
Q: What did they do with the boat?

6. "The crew members helped us get settled and explained the safety rules."
Q: Who assisted the passengers?

7. "They rented a luxury yacht for their honeymoon cruise."
Q: What kind of boat did they choose?

8. "The harbour was filled with colourful fishing boats returning at dawn."
Q: What kind of boats were in the harbour?

9. "There were around twenty passengers on board the tour boat."
Q: How many people were on the boat?

10. "We returned to dock at the harbour just before sunset."
Q: When did they finish the trip?

---

✦ Answer Key

1. In the early morning.

2. Smooth and peaceful.

3. Bad sea conditions.

4. A boat trip along the coast.

5. Stopped it near a beach.

6. The boat staff.

7. A very comfortable, high-end boat.

8. Boats used for catching fish.

9. Twenty.

10. At sunset

 

🧛 Dracula – Chapter 5: Letters from England

Mina Murray’s Journal – July 26th
Today, I received a letter from Jonathan. He is in Budapest, in a hospital. He says he has been very ill, but is slowly recovering. His handwriting is weak, and his words are strange.

He writes, “Come quickly. I need you.”

I showed the letter to Mrs. Westenra, Lucy’s mother. She was very kind and helped me prepare for my journey. I am nervous, but I love Jonathan deeply. I must go to him.

Letter from Lucy Westenra to Mina – August 1st
My dearest Mina,
I miss you already! But I know you must be with Jonathan.

Strange things have been happening here in Whitby. I’ve been sleepwalking again. The first time, Mother found me outside by the old church on the cliff. I had no memory of it.

Last night, I woke up with tiny wounds on my neck. Two small dots. Mother says I must have been bitten by a bug. But I feel very tired, and cold—even in the sun.

Also, there’s a shipwreck! A Russian boat called the Demeter crashed into the harbor during a storm. The whole town watched as it sailed in with no crew—only the captain, found tied to the wheel, dead.

There was only one other thing onboard: a large dog that jumped off the boat and ran away. No one has seen it since.

Whitby is full of mystery.

With love,
Lucy

Mina’s Journal – August 6th
I am now in Budapest. I have seen Jonathan at last.

He looks thinner, pale, but his eyes lit up when he saw me. We cried together. He told me he cannot remember everything that happened in Transylvania, only that it was terrifying.

The doctors say he may recover faster if he is happy. So—we are getting married tomorrow.

I will stay by his side forever.

---

📖 Glossary

Word / Phrase	Meaning
Sleepwalking	Walking while asleep, without knowing it
Wound	An injury or cut on the body
Harbor	A place where ships dock near the shore
Terrifying	Extremely scary
Recover	To get better after being sick or injured

---

❓ Comprehension Questions

1. Where is Jonathan when Mina hears from him?

2. What does Jonathan ask Mina to do?

3. What strange things are happening to Lucy in Whitby?

4. What does Lucy find on her neck?

5. What happened to the ship called the Demeter?

6. What mysterious animal was seen on the ship?

7. What decision do Mina and Jonathan make in Budapest?

---

✅ Answers

1. He is in a hospital in Budapest.

2. He asks her to come quickly.

3. She is sleepwalking and feels tired and cold.

4. Two small wounds like bites.

5. It crashed into the harbor during a storm, with no living crew.

6. A large dog jumped off the ship and disappeared.

7. They decide to get married.

 

✦ IELTS Speaking Practice Test – Flights & Flying

Part 1: Introduction & Interview

1. Do you enjoy flying?

2. Have you ever taken a long flight?

3. Do you prefer the window or aisle seat?

4. What do you usually do during a flight?

5. How do you feel about airports?

---

Part 2: Cue Card

Describe a memorable flight you have taken.
You should say:

• where you were going

• what the flight was like

• what you did during the flight
  and explain why it was memorable.

---

✦ Sample Answers Using the Phrases

Part 1 Answers

1. Yes, I find flying exciting, especially when I get a window seat.
2. I’ve taken several long-haul flights, and I always bring something to read.
3. I prefer the window because I like watching the smooth landing and take-off.
4. I watch the in-flight entertainment and sometimes chat with the cabin crew.
5. Airports can be stressful, especially when airport security takes a long time.

---

Part 2 Sample Answer

Last year, I took a long-haul flight from London to Singapore for a holiday. I checked in early and passed through airport security, which took longer than expected.

Once on board, I found my window seat, which gave me a great view during take-off. The cabin crew were professional and offered drinks and snacks.

I spent most of the time watching in-flight entertainment, but I still felt jet lag when we landed.

The best part was the smooth landing after a 13-hour flight — I was impressed by the pilot’s skills. It was a memorable journey because it was my first time flying that far.

---

✦ Comprehension Test: Flights & Flying

1. "I showed my boarding pass at the gate and walked onto the plane."
Q: What was the speaker doing?

2. "I always bring a book and headphones for a long-haul flight."
Q: Why does the speaker prepare in advance?

3. "I prefer a window seat so I can look at the view during take-off."
Q: Where does the speaker like to sit?

4. "The cabin crew were friendly and offered snacks during the flight."
Q: What did the cabin crew do?

5. "After flying from London to Tokyo, I had terrible jet lag."
Q: What was the result of the long journey?

6. "The flight delay meant we arrived three hours later than planned."
Q: Why did they arrive late?

7. "Airport security was strict — we had to remove shoes and electronics."
Q: What made the process strict?

8. "I packed everything into my carry-on luggage to avoid checking a bag."
Q: Why did the speaker avoid checking luggage?

9. "The in-flight entertainment included movies, games, and music."
Q: What was available on board?

10. "Despite the bad weather, the pilot made a smooth landing."
Q: What made the landing impressive?

---

✦ Answer Key

1. Getting ready to board the flight.

2. To stay entertained or comfortable.

3. By the window of the plane.

4. Gave snacks and were polite.

5. Felt tired or out of sync after flying.

6. The flight was delayed.

7. Extra security checks.

8. To travel more easily.

9. Movies and other activities.

10. The pilot landed safely despite challenges

 

🧛 Dracula – Chapter 4: The Escape

Jonathan Harker’s Journal – May 21st
This morning, I woke early. The sun rose over the mountains, and I knew this might be my last chance.

I tied the rope of torn sheets tightly and fastened it to a heavy bedpost. I whispered a prayer and began to climb out the window.

The wall was cold and rough. My hands burned. I slipped once, but caught myself.

At last, I reached the window of the room below—the one where I had seen the Count resting in his coffin.

I climbed inside.

The room was dark and silent. In the middle stood the coffin, just as before.

Dracula lay there, still and pale. But this time, I saw his lips move slightly. A smile.

He was dreaming. Or hungry.

I picked up a large rock. I thought of Mina. Of home. Of freedom.

But again, I couldn’t do it.

I ran from the room and climbed back to my own.

May 22nd
I’ve been locked in again. The Count has taken the rope.

He smiled at me last night.

“I see you’ve been exploring,” he said calmly. “Please, be more careful.”

His politeness is worse than anger. It’s like a mask hiding something much darker.

May 25th
Today, I heard the Count give orders to his servants. He is planning to leave the castle. I heard the word “England.”

He is coming to my country.

I fear for Mina. I fear for all of them.

Tonight, I will try again. If I stay, I will die here. If I leave, maybe I will live to warn others.

This is my last entry.

---

📖 Glossary

Word / Phrase	Meaning
Fastened	Tied or secured firmly
Rough	Not smooth; difficult to touch or climb
Still	Not moving
Politeness	Being nice or respectful
Mask (figurative)	A way to hide someone’s true feelings

---

❓ Comprehension Questions

1. How does Jonathan try to escape the castle?

2. What does he see again in the hidden room?

3. Why doesn’t he attack Dracula?

4. What does Dracula do after discovering the escape attempt?

5. What clue tells Jonathan that Dracula is going to England?

6. Why is Jonathan afraid for Mina?

7. What decision does Jonathan make at the end of the chapter?

---

✅ Answers

1. He climbs down the castle wall using a rope made of sheets.

2. Dracula sleeping in the coffin, with a slight smile on his lips.

3. He is too afraid.

4. He smiles and removes the rope, but says nothing directly.

5. He hears the word “England” when Dracula speaks to his servants.

6. Because Dracula is planning to travel there.

7. He decides to try escaping again, even if it is dangerous.

 

✦ IELTS Topic: Cars, Traffic & Driving – 10 Useful Phrases

1. Heavy traffic
   e.g., We were stuck in heavy traffic for over an hour.

2. Rush hour
   e.g., I try to avoid driving during rush hour whenever possible.

3. Traffic congestion
   e.g., Traffic congestion is a major problem in the city centre.

4. Pedestrian crossing
   e.g., Drivers must stop at the pedestrian crossing for people to cross safely.

5. Speeding fine
   e.g., He got a speeding fine for going 20 km/h over the limit.

6. Driver’s licence
   e.g., You can’t rent a car unless you have a valid driver’s licence.

7. Public transport alternatives
   e.g., More people would leave their cars at home if there were better public transport alternatives.

8. Road rage
   e.g., Road rage incidents have increased due to poor driving habits.

9. Fuel-efficient vehicle
   e.g., Many people are choosing fuel-efficient vehicles to save money and protect the environment.

10. Parking space shortage
    e.g., Finding parking in the city is difficult due to a shortage of spaces.

---

✦ IELTS Speaking Practice Test – Cars & Traffic

Part 1: Introduction & Interview

1. Do you drive often?

2. Is traffic a problem in your city?

3. How do you usually get around?

4. What rules should drivers always follow?

5. Have you ever taken a driving test?

---

Part 2: Cue Card

Describe a journey you took by car.
You should say:

• where you went

• who you were with

• what happened during the journey
  and explain how you felt about it.

---

✦ Sample Answers Using the Phrases

Part 1 Answers

1. Yes, I drive to work most days, although I try to avoid rush hour.
2. Definitely. We deal with heavy traffic and parking space shortages all the time.
3. I use a fuel-efficient vehicle, but sometimes I take the train — it's one of the few public transport alternatives available.
4. Drivers should always stop at pedestrian crossings and avoid speeding.
5. Yes, I passed my driving test a few years ago after lots of practice.

---

Part 2 Sample Answer

Last summer, I went on a road trip with my family to the countryside. We set off early to avoid rush hour, but we still hit some traffic congestion near the city.

Luckily, we were in my dad’s fuel-efficient vehicle, so we didn’t waste much petrol even though we were moving slowly.

Along the way, we passed lots of signs reminding drivers to stop at pedestrian crossings, and we even saw a bit of road rage when two drivers argued near a roundabout.

Despite that, it was a great trip. I enjoyed the scenery, and having a reliable car made the whole journey smooth and relaxing.

---

✦ Comprehension Test: Cars, Traffic & Driving

1. "We were stuck in heavy traffic for over an hour."
Q: What was the problem?

2. "I try to avoid driving during rush hour whenever possible."
Q: Why does the speaker avoid certain times?

3. "Traffic congestion is a major problem in the city centre."
Q: What happens in the city centre?

4. "Drivers must stop at the pedestrian crossing for people to cross safely."
Q: What rule should drivers follow?

5. "He got a speeding fine for going 20 km/h over the limit."
Q: What was the penalty?

6. "You can’t rent a car unless you have a valid driver’s licence."
Q: What is required to rent a car?

7. "More people would leave their cars at home if there were better public transport alternatives."
Q: What would help reduce car use?

8. "Road rage incidents have increased due to poor driving habits."
Q: What has caused road rage?

9. "Many people are choosing fuel-efficient vehicles to save money and protect the environment."
Q: Why do people choose certain cars?

10. "Finding parking in the city is difficult due to a shortage of spaces."
Q: What problem do drivers face?

---

✦ Answer Key

1. Traffic was slow or stopped.

2. Because roads are busiest at that time.

3. Too many vehicles causing delays.

4. Stop to let people cross.

5. A fine for driving too fast.

6. A legal driving document.

7. Better buses or trains.

8. Bad driving and stress.

9. To use less fuel and pollute less.

10. Not enough places to park.

 

🧛 Dracula – Chapter 3: Jonathan’s Secret Plan

Jonathan Harker’s Journal – May 15th

Each day in Castle Dracula feels longer and colder. The Count speaks politely but keeps me locked inside. I try to stay calm, but I know—I am a prisoner.

The Count asks me to write letters to my fiancée Mina and my employer in England. But he gives me the words to write.

He watches while I write.

The letters say I will leave the castle soon. But it’s not true.

I feel like I’m in a trap.

May 16th

I’ve begun to explore every corner of the castle. I search for ways to escape.

This morning, I found a small window in an unused room. I climbed up and looked out. Below me is a steep cliff. If I jump, I’ll die. If I stay, I’ll die slowly.

I must find another way.

May 18th

Today I discovered the Count’s bedroom. It was hidden behind a heavy door.

Inside was a large coffin. It was filled with earth—and in it lay the Count, asleep.

He was not breathing.

He looked dead.

But I knew better.

I picked up a shovel, ready to attack… but I couldn’t do it. I was frozen with fear.

I ran back to my room.

May 20th

I’ve decided. I must try to escape, even if it means climbing down the castle wall.

I’ve made a rope from torn sheets. Tomorrow, I’ll try to use it.

If I don’t write again, it means I have failed.

Please, God—let me survive.

---

📖 Glossary

Word / Phrase	Meaning
Fiancée	The woman someone is engaged to marry
Employer	A person or company you work for
Trap	A dangerous situation that is hard to escape
Coffin	A box in which a dead person is placed
Frozen with fear	Too scared to move or act

---

❓ Comprehension Questions

1. What does Count Dracula make Jonathan do with the letters?

2. Why are the letters dishonest?

3. What dangerous place does Jonathan find?

4. What does he discover in the hidden room?

5. What is inside the coffin?

6. Why doesn’t Jonathan attack Dracula?

7. What escape plan does Jonathan prepare?

---

✅ Answers

1. He makes him write them while watching and gives him the words to use.

2. They say Jonathan will leave soon, which is not true.

3. A window overlooking a steep cliff.

4. Dracula’s secret bedroom.

5. Dracula lies inside, sleeping in a coffin filled with earth.

6. He is frozen with fear.

7. To climb down the wall using a rope made from sheets.

 

✦ IELTS Topic: Weather – 10 Useful Phrases

1. Bitterly cold
   e.g., It was bitterly cold last night — well below freezing.

2. Scorching hot
   e.g., It gets scorching hot here in August — almost unbearable.

3. Mild and pleasant
   e.g., Spring is usually mild and pleasant in this part of the country.

4. Pouring with rain
   e.g., We couldn’t go outside because it was pouring with rain.

5. Overcast skies
   e.g., The whole day was gloomy with overcast skies.

6. A light breeze
   e.g., A light breeze made the walk more enjoyable despite the heat.

7. Thunderstorm rolling in
   e.g., We stayed indoors as a thunderstorm was rolling in.

8. Changeable weather
   e.g., The weather in the mountains is very changeable — sunny one minute, raining the next.

9. Freezing fog
   e.g., Driving was dangerous this morning because of freezing fog.

10. A spell of sunshine
    e.g., After days of rain, we finally had a spell of sunshine.

---

✦ IELTS Speaking Practice Test – Weather

Part 1: Introduction & Interview

1. What’s the weather like where you live?

2. Do you prefer hot or cold weather?

3. What do you usually do on rainy days?

4. How does weather affect your mood?

5. Have you ever experienced extreme weather?

---

Part 2: Cue Card

Describe a time when the weather affected your plans.
You should say:

• what the weather was like

• what your plans were

• what you did instead
  and explain how you felt about it.

---

✦ Sample Answers Using the Phrases

Part 1 Answers

1. It’s usually mild and pleasant, though we do get some overcast skies in winter.
2. I prefer warm weather, but not when it’s scorching hot.
3. On rainy days — especially when it’s pouring with rain — I like to stay indoors and read.
4. Weather definitely affects my mood. A spell of sunshine lifts my spirits.
5. Yes, once I got stuck in a thunderstorm while hiking. It was scary!

---

Part 2 Sample Answer

Last autumn, my friends and I planned to have a picnic in the park. The forecast said it would be mild and pleasant, but just as we arrived, it started pouring with rain.

Within minutes, the sky turned dark and overcast, and we could see a thunderstorm rolling in from the west. It wasn’t safe to stay outside, so we packed up and went to a café instead.

Although we were disappointed, we made the best of it. I remember saying how changeable the weather can be in our city — you never know what to expect.

---

✦ Comprehension Test: Weather Vocabulary

1. "It was bitterly cold last night — well below freezing."
Q: How cold was it?

2. "It gets scorching hot here in August — almost unbearable."
Q: What is the summer like?

3. "Spring is usually mild and pleasant in this part of the country."
Q: How is spring described?

4. "We couldn’t go outside because it was pouring with rain."
Q: Why did they stay indoors?

5. "The whole day was gloomy with overcast skies."
Q: What was the sky like?

6. "A light breeze made the walk more enjoyable despite the heat."
Q: What helped make the walk better?

7. "We stayed indoors as a thunderstorm was rolling in."
Q: Why did they avoid going out?

8. "The weather in the mountains is very changeable — sunny one minute, raining the next."
Q: What’s the weather like in the mountains?

9. "Driving was dangerous this morning because of freezing fog."
Q: What made driving dangerous?

10. "After days of rain, we finally had a spell of sunshine."
Q: What happened after several rainy days?

---

✦ Answer Key

1. Extremely cold, below zero.

2. Very hot and uncomfortable.

3. Nice and comfortable.

4. Because of heavy rain.

5. Cloudy and grey.

6. A soft wind cooled things down.

7. Because of the approaching storm.

8. It changes quickly and unexpectedly.

9. The fog was icy and thick.

10. The sun came out for a while.

 

🧛 Dracula – Chapter 2: Strange Days in the Castle

Jonathan Harker’s Journal – May 5th
I spent my first full day in Castle Dracula, and already I feel like a prisoner.

The Count is kind and well-mannered. He speaks perfect English, though with a strange accent. We talk about business—he wants to buy a house in London—but something about him makes me nervous.

He never eats with me. In fact, I never see him eat or drink anything.

He only appears at night, never in the daylight.

Today, I woke early and explored the castle. The doors are locked. Every exit is barred. I can walk the halls and rooms—but I cannot leave.

The Count warned me, “Don’t sleep in any room except your own.”
Why would he say that?

May 7th
I noticed something odd. There are no mirrors in the castle.

I used a small mirror from my shaving kit. As I leaned over the sink, I saw my face—but not the Count’s. He stood directly behind me, but he had no reflection.

Startled, I turned around. He reached out and grabbed the mirror, throwing it to the ground.

“A broken mirror is bad luck,” he said calmly. But I saw anger in his eyes.

What kind of man casts no reflection?

Later, I noticed that his hands are covered in hair, and his nails are sharp—more like claws than fingers.

I’m beginning to fear him.

May 10th
Today, I looked out the window and saw something terrible. The Count was crawling down the wall of the castle, headfirst, like a spider.

No human could move like that.

I tried the doors again. Still locked. Still no way out.

I am trapped.

May 12th
At night, I hear strange noises. Whispers. Scratching sounds in the walls.

One night, I couldn’t sleep and wandered into another room—disobeying the Count’s warning.

I found a beautiful, empty bedroom. I lay on the bed and closed my eyes.

Then I heard a soft laugh.

Three women were standing at the end of the bed—pale, with red lips and glowing eyes.

One whispered, “He’s young and warm. Shall we kiss him?”

I couldn’t move. My body was frozen with fear.

As they leaned closer, I felt their cold breath on my neck.

Suddenly, the Count appeared. He was furious. “He belongs to me!” he shouted.

The women hissed and disappeared into the darkness.

The Count looked down at me. “You should not have left your room,” he said.

I’m certain now—he is not human.

---

📖 Glossary

Word / Phrase	Meaning
Prisoner	Someone who cannot leave a place
Barred	Locked with metal bars
Reflection	The image seen in a mirror
Shaving kit	Small set of tools used for shaving
Claws	Sharp nails, like those of an animal
Hissed	Made a sharp "sss" sound, like a snake

---

❓ Comprehension Questions

1. What makes Jonathan feel like a prisoner?

2. What strange things does he notice about the Count?

3. What happens with the mirror?

4. How does the Count move down the castle wall?

5. Who are the three women Jonathan sees?

6. How does the Count react when he finds them with Jonathan?

7. What is Jonathan now sure about?

---

✅ Answers

1. All the doors are locked, and he cannot leave the castle.

2. The Count has no reflection, doesn’t eat, only appears at night, and crawls like a spider.

3. Jonathan sees no reflection of the Count; the Count becomes angry and breaks the mirror.

4. He crawls headfirst like a spider.

5. Three strange, vampire-like women.

6. He becomes angry and says Jonathan “belongs to him.”

7. That Count Dracula is not human