English at Home: June 2025

Monday, 30 June 2025

✦ IELTS Topic: The Arts – 10 Useful Phrases

A work of art
e.g., That painting is a true work of art—so detailed and emotional.
Art gallery
e.g., We spent the afternoon at a local art gallery admiring modern pieces.
Cultural enrichment
e.g., Visiting museums offers great cultural enrichment for students.
Creativity and imagination
e.g., The arts encourage creativity and imagination in young people.
The performing arts
e.g., She’s studying the performing arts, including dance and theatre.
Artistic expression
e.g., Graffiti is often seen as a powerful form of artistic expression.
A thought-provoking piece
e.g., The sculpture was a thought-provoking piece about climate change.
To appreciate art
e.g., It takes time and learning to truly appreciate art.
Art in public spaces
e.g., I love seeing art in public spaces—it makes cities more inspiring.
A form of therapy
e.g., For many people, painting or music is a form of therapy.

✦ IELTS Speaking Practice Test – The Arts

Part 1: Introduction & Interview

Do you enjoy any form of art?
Are the arts important in your culture?
What kind of art do you like best?
Have you ever visited a museum or art gallery?
Do you think children should learn art in school?

Part 2: Cue Card

Describe a piece of art (painting, film, play, etc.) that made an impression on you.
You should say:

what it was
where you saw it
what it showed or expressed
and explain how it made you feel.

✦ Sample Answers Using The Arts Phrases

Part 1 Answers

1. Yes, I love visiting museums and occasionally sketching—it's a great outlet for artistic expression.
2. Definitely. Traditional dance, storytelling, and visual arts are a big part of our heritage and offer cultural enrichment.
3. I prefer painting, especially portraits—they require a lot of creativity and imagination.
4. Yes, I recently went to a modern art gallery in the city—it was inspiring.
5. Of course. The arts help children express themselves and even act as a form of therapy.

Part 2 Sample Answer

One piece of art that left a lasting impression on me was a sculpture I saw at an exhibition in London. It was a thought-provoking piece about climate change, showing a polar bear made entirely from recycled plastic.

I saw it in a public garden as part of an art in public spaces program. It was not only visually striking, but also emotionally moving—it really made me think.

What I loved most was how it used artistic expression to communicate a global issue. It didn’t use words, but it made a powerful statement.

It reminded me that a good work of art isn’t just beautiful—it can also challenge how we think and feel.

✦ Comprehension Test: The Arts Phrases

1. "That painting is a true work of art—so detailed and emotional."
Q: What does the speaker think of the painting?

2. "We spent the afternoon at a local art gallery admiring modern pieces."
Q: Where did they go and what did they do?

3. "Visiting museums offers great cultural enrichment for students."
Q: How can students benefit from museums?

4. "The arts encourage creativity and imagination in young people."
Q: What do the arts develop in young people?

5. "She’s studying the performing arts, including dance and theatre."
Q: What is she learning about?

6. "Graffiti is often seen as a powerful form of artistic expression."
Q: How is graffiti viewed by some people?

7. "The sculpture was a thought-provoking piece about climate change."
Q: What effect did the sculpture have?

8. "It takes time and learning to truly appreciate art."
Q: What is needed to understand art better?

9. "I love seeing art in public spaces—it makes cities more inspiring."
Q: Why does the speaker enjoy public art?

10. "For many people, painting or music is a form of therapy."
Q: What role does art play in people’s lives?

✦ Answer Key

It’s beautiful, impressive, and emotional.
They visited an art gallery and looked at artwork.
By learning about culture and gaining new perspectives.
Creativity and imagination.
Dance, theatre, and other live performance skills.
As a meaningful and expressive art form.
It made the viewer think deeply.
Time and understanding.
It adds inspiration and beauty to everyday places.
It helps people relax, heal, or express themselves emotionally.

🌿 The Secret Garden – Chapter 10: Colin Visits the Garden

The next morning, the sky was bright and clear. It was the perfect day.

Mary met Dickon outside the house. He had brought a large wheelchair.

“Do you think he’s ready?” Mary asked.

Dickon smiled. “He wants to go. That’s the most important part.”

They went quietly to Colin’s room. He was already dressed and waiting, his eyes full of excitement.

“I’m going,” he whispered. “I’m really going.”

Mary and Dickon helped him into the wheelchair. The hallway was quiet, and the servants were busy. Slowly and carefully, they pushed Colin through the house and out the back door.

When the sun touched his face, Colin closed his eyes and smiled.

“This is the first time I’ve felt the sun in years,” he said.

They moved through the gardens, past trees and flowers, until they reached the ivy-covered wall.

Mary looked around. “No one is watching.”

She pulled back the ivy, took out the key, and opened the door.

Colin gasped.

Inside, the secret garden was full of color and life. Green leaves covered the walls, pink and yellow flowers bloomed, and birds flew overhead.

“It’s like magic,” Colin said quietly.

Mary and Dickon helped him out of the chair. He stood slowly, holding onto the arms of the chair for balance.

Then, step by step, he walked.

He walked on his own.

“I’m walking,” he cried. “Look at me!”

Mary clapped her hands. Dickon’s eyes were shining.

For a long time, they stayed in the garden. Colin touched flowers, felt the bark of trees, and laughed like never before.

“I don’t feel sick here,” he said. “I feel alive.”

They promised to come every day. Dickon would bring food and books. Mary would help Colin grow stronger. And the garden would keep growing, too.

“Let’s never tell anyone,” Colin said. “Not yet. It’s our secret.”

Mary smiled. “Yes. The garden is our world now.”

📖 Glossary

Word/Phrase	Meaning
Wheelchair	A special chair with wheels for someone who cannot walk well
Gasps	A short breath of surprise
Bloomed	When flowers open and grow
Bark	The outside layer of a tree
Balance	The ability to stand or move without falling
Alive	Full of life and energy

❓ Comprehension Questions

What kind of day is it when they take Colin out?
What does Dickon bring to help Colin?
What is the first thing Colin says when he feels the sun?
How does Colin react when he sees the secret garden?
What important thing does Colin do in the garden?
How does the garden make Colin feel?
What promise do the children make at the end of the chapter?

✅ Answers

Bright and clear – a perfect day.
A large wheelchair.
“This is the first time I’ve felt the sun in years.”
He says it’s like magic.
He walks on his own for the first time.
He feels alive and not sick.
To keep the garden a secret and return every day.

✦ IELTS Topic: Music – 10 Useful Phrases

Live performance
e.g., There’s nothing like the energy of a live performance at a concert.
Catchy tune
e.g., That song has such a catchy tune—I can’t get it out of my head!
Music to my ears
e.g., When I heard I’d passed the IELTS exam, it was music to my ears.
Tone-deaf
e.g., I enjoy singing, but honestly, I’m completely tone-deaf.
Play by ear
e.g., I can’t read music, but I can play by ear quite well.
A strong beat
e.g., I love songs with a strong beat—they make me want to dance.
Soothing melodies
e.g., I listen to soothing melodies when I need to relax or study.
Background music
e.g., I like soft background music while I’m working or reading.
Go viral
e.g., Her music video went viral overnight and made her famous.
A mix of genres
e.g., My playlist has a mix of genres—from jazz and classical to hip-hop.

✦ IELTS Speaking Practice Test – Music

Part 1: Introduction & Interview

Do you like listening to music?
What kind of music do you enjoy?
When do you usually listen to music?
Can you play any musical instruments?
Is music important in your culture?

Part 2: Cue Card

Describe a piece of music or a song you enjoy.
You should say:

what the song is
when you first heard it
what it’s about
and explain why you enjoy it.

✦ Sample Answers Using the Music Phrases

Part 1 Answers

1. Yes, I listen to music almost every day—it’s like background music in my life.
2. I enjoy anything with a strong beat, especially electronic and hip-hop.
3. I usually listen to soothing melodies in the evening to help me unwind.
4. I can’t play an instrument, but I admire people who can play by ear.
5. Definitely—music plays a big role in festivals and family events.

Part 2 Sample Answer

One of my favourite songs is “Imagine” by John Lennon. It’s a classic with a simple melody and powerful message about peace and unity.

I first heard it in school, during a music class. The lyrics really stuck with me, and it’s one of those catchy tunes that stays in your head for days.

What I love about it is the combination of a calm rhythm and thoughtful words. It’s not flashy, but it has such soothing melodies that make you reflect. I often play it as background music when I study or read.

It’s truly music to my ears, and even though it’s decades old, it still feels relevant today.

✦ Comprehension Test: Music Phrases

1. "There’s nothing like the energy of a live performance at a concert."
Q: What makes a live performance special?

2. "That song has such a catchy tune—I can’t get it out of my head!"
Q: How does the speaker feel about the song?

3. "When I heard I’d passed the IELTS exam, it was music to my ears."
Q: What does “music to my ears” mean here?

4. "I enjoy singing, but honestly, I’m completely tone-deaf."
Q: What does the speaker say about their singing ability?

5. "I can’t read music, but I can play by ear quite well."
Q: How does the speaker play music?

6. "I love songs with a strong beat—they make me want to dance."
Q: What kind of music does the speaker enjoy?

7. "I listen to soothing melodies when I need to relax or study."
Q: When does the speaker listen to soothing melodies?

8. "I like soft background music while I’m working or reading."
Q: What kind of music does the speaker prefer while working?

9. "Her music video went viral overnight and made her famous."
Q: What happened to her video?

10. "My playlist has a mix of genres—from jazz and classical to hip-hop."
Q: What does the speaker say about their music preferences?

✦ Answer Key

The atmosphere and energy are exciting and real.
It’s memorable and sticks in their head.
It was great news or something very pleasing.
They’re bad at singing or can’t stay in tune.
By listening and copying the sound, not reading notes.
Upbeat and rhythmic music.
When relaxing or studying.
Quiet, calm music that doesn’t distract.
It became extremely popular very quickly.
They enjoy different types of music.

🌿 The Secret Garden – Chapter 9: A Secret Friend

The next day, Mary went to see Colin again.

He was sitting up in bed, looking better than before. His eyes were brighter, and there was a little color in his pale cheeks.

“I’ve been thinking about the garden all night,” he said as soon as she entered. “I dreamed about trees and flowers. Can I really go there?”

“Not yet,” Mary said. “You must get stronger first. And we have to keep it a secret.”

Colin nodded. “I won’t tell anyone. Not even the servants.”

Mary brought stories of the garden each day. She described the green leaves, the soft grass, the smell of flowers. Colin listened with wonder.

Then one afternoon, she said, “Would you like to meet someone else who knows the garden?”

“Who?” he asked.

“Dickon,” she smiled. “Martha’s brother. He helped me make the garden come alive.”

“Is he kind?” Colin asked.

“The kindest,” Mary replied. “He talks to animals and makes the flowers grow faster.”

Colin laughed softly. “Then yes, I want to meet him.”

The next morning, Mary told Dickon everything. He was surprised, but happy.

“We’ll help the lad,” he said. “He just needs fresh air and joy.”

Later that week, when the servants were busy, Mary and Dickon came into Colin’s room. The boy was sitting in a big chair, covered with blankets.

Dickon smiled and held a baby lamb in his arms. “Thought you might want to meet some friends.”

Colin’s eyes lit up. “A lamb! Is it really yours?”

“No one owns a lamb,” Dickon said kindly. “It just likes being with me.”

The fox, too, followed behind Dickon and sat quietly near the chair.

Colin laughed. “This is the strangest day of my life. And the best.”

They talked for hours. Dickon told stories about the moor, about animals, and about growing things. Colin listened like a thirsty flower drinking water.

“I want to go outside,” Colin said at last. “I want to breathe the fresh air. I want to walk.”

Mary and Dickon looked at each other.

“You will,” Dickon said. “We’ll help you.”

That night, Colin told Mary, “I believe the garden has magic. I believe it can make me better.”

Mary nodded. “It made me better. And now it will help you.”

For the first time in his life, Colin believed something wonderful could happen.

📖 Glossary

Word/Phrase	Meaning
Servants	People who work in a large house
Blankets	Warm covers used on a bed or chair
Thirsty flower	A metaphor for someone needing attention or care
Fresh air	Clean outdoor air
Magic	A special power that brings change or wonder

❓ Comprehension Questions

How does Colin look when Mary visits him again?
What does Colin ask about the garden?
Who does Mary want him to meet?
What animals does Dickon bring to Colin’s room?
How does Colin react to the visit?
What does Colin say he wants to do?
What does Colin begin to believe about the garden?

✅ Answers

He looks better—his eyes are brighter and he has more color.
If he can go there one day.
Dickon, her friend who helps with the garden.
A baby lamb and a fox.
He is surprised and very happy.
He wants to go outside and walk.
That the garden has magic and can help him get better.

Friday, 27 June 2025

✦ 10 Phrases to Describe Places (IELTS Ready)

Bustling with activity
e.g., The city centre is always bustling with activity, especially on weekends.
Off the beaten track
e.g., We found a tiny café off the beaten track, far from the tourist crowds.
Breathtaking scenery
e.g., The mountain range offered breathtaking scenery I’ll never forget.
Rich in history
e.g., The old town is rich in history, with ancient architecture and cobblestone streets.
A hidden gem
e.g., The village was a hidden gem, unknown to most tourists.
Peaceful and tranquil
e.g., I love spending time in the countryside because it’s so peaceful and tranquil.
A vibrant atmosphere
e.g., The market had a vibrant atmosphere, full of colour and local music.
Run-down but charming
e.g., Some parts of the district are run-down but charming in a nostalgic way.
Picturesque views
e.g., We stayed at a cottage with picturesque views of the lake.
Teeming with wildlife
e.g., The national park was teeming with wildlife, from monkeys to exotic birds.

✦ Comprehension Test: Describing Places

Instructions:

Read each sentence and answer the question that follows.

1. "The city centre is always bustling with activity, especially on weekends."
Q1. What is the city centre like during weekends?

2. "We found a tiny café off the beaten track, far from the tourist crowds."
Q2. Where is the café located?

3. "The mountain range offered breathtaking scenery I’ll never forget."
Q3. How does the speaker feel about the mountain scenery?

4. "The old town is rich in history, with ancient architecture and cobblestone streets."
Q4. What makes the old town special?

5. "The village was a hidden gem, unknown to most tourists."
Q5. What does "hidden gem" suggest about the village?

6. "I love spending time in the countryside because it’s so peaceful and tranquil."
Q6. Why does the speaker enjoy the countryside?

7. "The market had a vibrant atmosphere, full of colour and local music."
Q7. How would you describe the mood of the market?

8. "Some parts of the district are run-down but charming in a nostalgic way."
Q8. How does the speaker feel about the run-down areas?

9. "We stayed at a cottage with picturesque views of the lake."
Q9. What kind of views did the cottage have?

10. "The national park was teeming with wildlife, from monkeys to exotic birds."
Q10. What can you find in the national park?

✦ Answer Key

A1. It’s very lively and busy.
A2. In a quiet, less-visited area.
A3. The view was incredibly beautiful and unforgettable.
A4. Its historical features and old buildings.
A5. It’s beautiful and special but not well-known.
A6. Because it is quiet and relaxing.
A7. Energetic, colourful, and lively.
A8. They’re old or neglected but still have charm.
A9. Beautiful, scenic views.
A10. Many animals and birds.

🌿 The Secret Garden – Chapter 8: The Cry in the Night (Again)

Mary felt stronger every day.

Working in the garden gave her energy, and spending time with Dickon made her smile more. Her face was rounder now, her eyes brighter. Martha noticed the change too.

“You look almost pretty,” Martha said one morning. “You’ve got color in your cheeks.”

Mary laughed. She didn’t care much about being pretty, but she liked feeling happy.

That night, the wind was quiet. Mary slept well—until a soft sound woke her.

It was the same sound she had heard weeks ago.

A child crying.

This time, she didn’t hesitate. She got out of bed, lit a small candle, and opened her door. The hallway was cold and dark, but she walked bravely.

The sound was louder now. She followed it past many doors, around a corner, and down another hall.

Then—she stopped.

There was a door at the end, slightly open.

She pushed it gently.

Inside, she saw a large bed, heavy curtains, and—on the pillows—a pale boy.

He had dark hair and big eyes filled with tears.

“Who are you?” he asked.

“I’m Mary Lennox,” she said. “I live here too. Who are you?”

“I’m Colin Craven,” he whispered. “Mr. Craven is my father.”

Mary was shocked. This was the secret child. The one no one talked about. The one who cried at night.

“Why are you crying?” she asked softly.

“I’m always ill,” Colin said. “They say I won’t grow strong. I might die. That’s why I stay in bed.”

Mary looked at him closely. He was thin, but his eyes were sharp. She saw more sadness than sickness.

“I don’t think you’ll die,” she said. “You just need fresh air and something to care about.”

Colin stared at her. “You’re not afraid of me?”

“No,” Mary said. “And I know a secret. Would you like to hear it?”

Colin nodded slowly.

Mary leaned in and whispered, “I found the secret garden.”

His eyes grew wide. “The one my mother loved?”

“Yes. It’s not dead. It’s alive—and I’m helping it grow.”

Colin’s lips trembled. “Will you take me there one day?”

Mary smiled. “Yes. But you must promise not to tell anyone. It’s our secret now.”

Colin smiled too—for the first time in a long while.

That night, Mary returned to bed feeling full of hope.

She had shared the garden with Dickon.
Now she had shared it with Colin.
And something inside her said—this was just the beginning.

📖 Glossary

Word/Phrase	Meaning
Hesitate	To pause or wait before doing something
Curtains	Cloth used to cover windows or beds
Pale	Very light skin color, often from illness
Trembled	Shook slightly, often from emotion
Secret child	Someone kept hidden from others
Hope	A feeling that good things will happen

❓ Comprehension Questions

How has Mary changed since working in the garden?
What wakes her in the night?
Who does Mary find behind the door?
What does Colin say about his health?
How does Mary react to Colin?
What secret does she tell him?
What do they promise to each other?

✅ Answers

She looks healthier and happier.
The sound of a child crying.
Colin Craven, Mr. Craven’s hidden son.
He says he is always sick and might die.
She is not afraid—she speaks kindly and directly.
That she found the secret garden.
That they will keep the garden a secret, and she’ll take him there one day.

Wednesday, 25 June 2025

📝 How to Use the Verb “To Be” with Adverbs (B1–B2 English)

One of the most common verbs in English is “to be” — and it's also one of the most important! But did you know that using it correctly with adverbs can make your English sound much more natural and accurate?

🔍 What is the Verb “To Be”?

The verb “to be” helps describe states, feelings, identity, time, and location. Its forms include:

Present: am, is, are
Past: was, were
Perfect: has/have been
Future: will be

Examples:

She is a teacher.
They were tired.
We have been busy.

🧠 Can You Use Adverbs with “To Be”?

Yes! Many adverbs work with the verb “to be.” These adverbs describe how, when, how often, or to what degree the state happens.

🗂️ Common Types of Adverbs with “To Be”

1. Adverbs of Frequency

Tell how often something happens.

✅ Placement: after the verb “to be”

Examples:

He is always late.
They are never rude.
She was often tired after work.

2. Adverbs of Degree

Describe intensity or extent.

✅ Placement: before the adjective or past participle

Examples:

I am completely ready.
She is very happy.
We were almost finished.

3. Adverbs of Time

Tell when something happens.

✅ Placement: usually at the end of the sentence

Examples:

They were at home yesterday.
She is at the office now.

4. Adverbs of Place

Tell where something happens.

✅ Placement: often at the end

Examples:

The books are here.
He was outside.

⚠️ Common Mistakes

❌ He always is late.
✅ He is always late.

❌ She is very much tired.
✅ She is very tired.

❌ They were at the beach often.
✅ They were often at the beach.

✏️ Quick Practice

Try completing these with the correct placement of the adverb:

I ___ (always) am happy. → ❌
She is ___ (really) excited. → ✅
They are ___ (often) in the kitchen. → ✅

✅ Summary: Placement Rules

Adverb Type	Example	Placement
Frequency	He is always busy.	After “to be”
Degree	She is very tired.	Before adjective/participle
Time	He was at work yesterday.	Usually at the end
Place	The keys are here.	Usually at the end

🎯 Final Tip

The verb “to be” is simple — but combining it with the right adverb in the right place can take your English to the next level. Keep practicing and pay attention to patterns when reading or listening to English!