Shadowing Practice: 1 Hour IELTS Listening October Part 2 | Podcast with Test & Transcript 2026 #ib8 - Learn English Speaking with Video

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1
Welcome Part
2
2. You will hear a town councillor discussing local traffic problems and explaining plans for a heritage trail.
3
Right.
4
Next on the agenda we have the Riverside Access Plan and the Heritage Trail.
5
Councillor Morgan.
6
Thank you.
7
We now have the results of the survey carried out last month about local traffic and the footpaths near the river.
8
Generally, people are satisfied with the condition of the roads and there were only a few comments about potholes.
9
However, a significant number of residents complained about the increasing number of heavy vehicles using our smaller roads as a shortcut.
10
That seems to be the main concern at the moment.
11
Moving on to the riverside path itself, it has become very popular with walkers and cyclists.
12
The surface was improved last year, but overtaking is still difficult in places,
13
so we are going to add space on the inside edge to make it wider we did consider other changes
14
but widening is the priority for safety
15
and comfort now we also looked at the proposal for a
16
pedestrian crossing near the river entrance we had hoped to go ahead this financial year
17
but the highways team has advised
18
that the original location is not suitable there is a bend in the approach road
19
so it would be dangerous for drivers and pedestrians so
20
that will need reconsidering before we proceed finally on station road near the station entrance drivers can face long waits
21
when the barrier is down we have now put up signs asking motorists not to leave their engines running
22
while they wait this should reduce fumes for pedestrians
23
and cyclists on the pavement thank you next on the agenda
24
is the heritage trail arrangements yes since we've agreed to promote
25
the heritage trail we need to organize a few practical features
26
on the route shown on the map think of the lower half as the lower lawn
27
which is the open area around the main entrance
28
and the upper loop as the upper zone which sits closer to the river and the statue First,
29
we will install a new notice board right at the main entrance on the south side, so it is the first thing visitors see as they step onto the lower lawn.
30
We also need seating.
31
The best place for picnic benches is in the park in the south -west corner, under the trees, away from the narrow riverside sections.
32
For families, we are adding a small children's play area.
33
This will be just north of the park on the short link path that connects the park to the main loop,
34
so it is close enough for parents but not inside the main seating space.
35
We have also had complaints about bikes being left against railings, so we are adding cycle parking on the south -east side of the lower lawn,
36
on the stretch of path that leads towards the lower bridge. For views, we are creating a lookout point in the upper zone near
37
the north side of the loop where visitors can look across the river bend and see both bridges.
38
Finally, we need a clear meeting point for guided groups.
39
We will use the open space on the west side of the upper zone, northwest of the park and just below the statue area,
40
so groups can gather without blocking the steps.
41
Part 2.
42
You will hear a talk giving advice on how to reach several viewpoints in a national park.
43
Good morning everyone and thanks for joining us at Ridgeway National Park.
44
I'm Sam Carter from Visitor Services
45
and my job today is to give you practical guidance for reaching the main viewpoints safely and with the least hassle.
46
To begin, a quick history lesson about the Upper Viewpoint Route.
47
It wasn't built with hikers in mind.
48
Years ago it served as a maintenance track so park vehicles could reach the ridge.
49
When people discovered the panorama from the top, the authority decided to open the track to the public and install signposts.
50
The route is considered safe, but it remains narrow in several stretches.
51
Please keep to one side, allow others to pass and try not to stop in the centre of the path.
52
Next, the lower access road is changing.
53
Starting next month, private cars will no longer be permitted to drive up to the lower trailhead.
54
Rather than widen the road, which would disturb the surrounding habitat, the park is introducing a shuttle bus from the main parking area.
55
This will cut congestion and reduce pressure on wildlife corridors.
56
Shuttles will operate at 15 -minute intervals and you can buy tickets at the visitor centre before you set off.
57
People often assume the challenge is simply the distance.
58
However, recent visitor feedback tells a different story.
59
The most common difficulty is the uneven surface underfoot stones exposed roots
60
and sudden dips can be tiring
61
and after rainfall certain sections become slippery increasing the chance of
62
a fall to make the walk safer new handrails are being fitted along the steepest parts
63
and extra warning signs will be placed near sharp corners
64
and hazard points so how should you prepare We're not asking you to invest in expensive specialist veer,
65
but we do strongly recommend checking the weather forecast before you start.
66
Mountain conditions can change quickly, and strong winds or heavy rain may make the paths unsafe.
67
Comfortable shoes with good grip are a sensible choice, and carrying water is always wise, even on cooler days.
68
There's also a small shelter near the river crossing.
69
It will remain open for use but it will no longer store emergency supplies.
70
Think of it as a rest stop.
71
You can sit, eat a snack and then continue.
72
Please take any rubbish with you when you leave.
73
Finally, a word about the three key viewpoints.
74
Eagle Point is the highest with a broad valley view,
75
but afternoon gusts can be severe so the viewing platform closes after 3pm.
76
River lookout is easier to reach and popular with families.
77
The scenery shifts with the seasons so many people come back several times a year.
78
Sunset Ridge is the only viewpoint where staying after dark is allowed, which is why photographers love it.
79
Before I finish, two guided activities start next month, night photography sessions and forest cycling tours.
80
Both are led by trained guides and can be booked online.
81
Enjoy your visit and walk carefully.
82
Part 2.
83
You will hear an access officer giving information about a barrier -free walking route at Cranley Waterside Trail.
84
Hello everyone and welcome to the Cranley Waterside Trail.
85
My name's Erin Holt and I'm the access officer for the site.
86
Before we set off, I'll explain today's barrier -free route, point out three help points and mention two new guided sessions.
87
To begin with, a quick note on the place itself.
88
Cranley Wharf looks modern now, but it used to be a boat -building yard.
89
People sometimes say it was a grain warehouse, but the historic records show it was mainly used for repairing small fishing boats.
90
Next, an update on the harbour steps.
91
They're staying in place, because removing them would mean closing the riverside path for months.
92
Instead, we're building a ramp beside the steps, with handrails on both sides and a non -slip surface.
93
Work should start next month, so the route will be even smoother later in the season.
94
Now, why is the route different from the one on last year's leaflet?
95
The short answer is resurfacing work.
96
There are temporary barriers along Dock Street and a section of uneven paving, so we're avoiding that stretch and keeping to the wider promenade.
97
Here's the key instruction.
98
Follow the blue access signs.
99
They're fixed to the posts at each junction, low enough to be seen from a wheelchair, and they indicate the gentlest gradient.
100
If you miss a sign, don't guess.
101
Turn back to the previous corner because some side lanes have high curbs.
102
Please keep backpacks to body on the narrow sections and give way at pinch points.
103
If you need to stop, pull to the side so others can pass.
104
A warning about the canal footbridge.
105
It looks like the quickest way across and for confident walkers it's fine, but the approach on the far side is steep.
106
Also, the metal surface can be slippery after rain.
107
For that reason, it isn't recommended for wheelchair users.
108
Stay on the riverside path and cross at the traffic lights on Market Street instead.
109
Now, the three help points.
110
At the Mariner's Museum entrance, you'll find automatic doors, which means you can enter without needing someone to hold them open.
111
The staff inside can also lend a small ramp for the display room, but that's only during normal opening hours.
112
At Willow Park Pavilion, seating is provided under cover.
113
It's a good stop if you need a break, and there's a drinking fountain beside the benches.
114
Please keep the central space clear, as emergency vehicles may need to pass.
115
Finally, at the Eastgate Library desk, staff can assist with directions, accessible toilets and taxi numbers.
116
They also have large print leaflets, though we've found the blue signs are the easiest way to navigate.
117
Before I finish, two new guided sessions – a sign language tour on Saturday mornings and an audio described tour on Sunday afternoons.
118
The Children's Treasure Walk and the Evening Photography Walk continue as before, but please book those online because places fill quickly.
119
If you need extra help, please speak to me now, not later today.
120
Right, let's get started.
121
Part 2.
122
You will hear a guide giving visitors an introduction to the layout and facilities of Greenbridge Park.
123
Good evening everyone and welcome.
124
I am delighted to introduce our speaker tonight,
125
Dr Helen Murray, who will be talking about the development and current layout of Greenbridge Park.
126
Helen, thank you for joining us.
127
Thank you.
128
Greenbridge Park is now one of the most popular public spaces in the area, but its origins are rather unusual.
129
In the early 1900s, this part of town was mainly industrial land, with warehouses and storage yards near the river.
130
When several of those businesses closed, the land stood empty for a number of years.
131
The local authority eventually purchased the site, not to improve transport links, as some people have suggested,
132
but specifically to create a shared outdoor space for residents.
133
At the time, there were very few facilities for exercise or leisure activities in this district.
134
At first, some councillors thought improving transport links would be more beneficial.
135
However, after reviewing local surveys, the council decided that creating recreational facilities should be the main priority.
136
Improved access between different neighbourhoods happened later, but that was never the main reason for establishing the park.
137
At the heart of the park, you will see the large fountain.
138
Some people assumed it was purely decorative, and a few even believed it replaced an older structure.
139
In reality, it was intended as a meeting point.
140
Encircling the park is a designated cycle path.
141
While it is occasionally used by people commuting to work, it was designed mainly with recreational users in mind.
142
The council wanted families and casual cyclists to have a safe route away from traffic.
143
The outdoor gym equipment that you may have noticed near the southern pathway was not part of the original plan.
144
It was introduced relatively recently following a public consultation process.
145
Several residents had requested more fitness facilities and the installation formed part of a wider upgrade programme.
146
Now, let me take you through the layout carefully.
147
If you enter from the West Gate, the Bike Wentel station is immediately inside the entrance and slightly south of the main path.
148
Walking north from there towards the river, you will reach the viewing platform positioned along the northern edge beside the water.
149
If you then follow the riverside path eastwards, the Children's Playground is located in the north -east corner, close to the East Gate.
150
Now return towards the centre of the park and you will see the large fountain where the main paths cross.
151
Just above the fountain and to the left, in the upper left section inside the circular path, is the picnic area.
152
It lies in the north -west part of the central layout and is separated from the river by the outer walkway.
153
Moving across to the opposite side of the fountain, but remaining in the upper half of the park you will
154
find the information center it is on the eastern side slightly above the horizontal path
155
that runs through the middle if you continue further down on the eastern side below
156
that central path
157
and closer to the southeast section you will reach the first
158
aid point in the lower right part of the park near
159
the curved outer path is the outdoor gym finally the drinking
160
water station is in the southwest section of the park to
161
find it walk directly south from the fountain towards the south
162
gate it is in the lower left part of the park below the picnic area
163
and separated from it by the central path
164
Part 2.
165
You will hear a talk about a new cycle lane development in a public park.
166
Good morning, everyone, and welcome to Riverside Park.
167
Before you begin your walk,
168
we have invited Park Officer Samir Patel to explain the recent changes and then talk you through the map.
169
Over to you, Samir.
170
Thanks, and hello.
171
I will start with the cycle lane development.
172
Some people said the whole project was really about bringing in more visitors, and others believed it was mainly a way to create extra parking.
173
In fact, the aim was to improve access for cyclists traveling into town,
174
particularly at commuting times, by giving them a continuous route that stays inside the park boundary.
175
Next, I want to mention the meadow beside the river.
176
It was not left undeveloped simply to reduce construction costs, and it is not being kept empty for future building plans.
177
The reason for keeping the meadow as it is was to encourage wildlife.
178
Since it has been protected, we have noticed far more butterflies and bees in summer, and more birds feeding there early in the morning.
179
You will also see a new footbridge across the water.
180
Some residents assumed it was a replacement for an older crossing further upstream, while others imagined it would be mainly for taking photographs.
181
The real purpose is safety.
182
The bridge is wider, has handrails on both sides, and it keeps walkers away from the traffic on the road bridge nearby.
183
Finally, there is the garden area.
184
It is not designed for organized public events and it is not intended for children's activities.
185
It's mainly meant for quiet relaxation with low planting, a circular path, and seats set back from the busiest route.
186
Now let me guide you around the map.
187
If you come in from the main entrance at the bottom, the car park is directly in front of you.
188
It is the only large paved area and there is a ticket machine in the middle.
189
Just to the left of the entrance, near the path that curves uphill, you will find the information board.
190
That is where park notices and trail updates are posted.
191
From there, follow the left -hand path as it climbs towards the river.
192
Before you reach the water, you will pass the bicycle rental station beside the path under the trees.
193
If you keep going, the path runs along the river edge and opens out into the meadow, which stretches across the northern part of the park.
194
On the far right of that riverside section, you will see the new footbridge crossing the narrow channel and linking the path to the east side.
195
Now return towards the center.
196
The seating area is close to the pond, just south of it with picnic tables and benches grouped together.
197
If you have questions, staff are usually near the information board in the morning.
198
Enjoy your visit, please keep to the paths, and do not feed the wildlife.
199
There are drinking fountains near the central path and bins at each junction, so the park stays tidy.
200
Part 2 You will hear a town councillor discussing local traffic problems and explaining plans for a heritage trail.
201
Right.
202
Next on the agenda, we have the Riverside Access Plan and the Heritage Trail.
203
Councillor Morgan.
204
Thank you.
205
We now have the results of the survey carried out last month about local traffic and the footpaths near the river.
206
Generally, people are satisfied with the condition of the roads, and there were only a few comments about potholes.
207
However, a significant number of residents complained about the increasing number of heavy vehicles using our smaller roads as a shortcut.
208
That seems to be the main concern at the moment.
209
Moving on to the riverside path itself, it has become very popular with walkers and cyclists.
210
The surface was improved last year, but overtaking is still difficult in places,
211
so we are going to add space on the inside edge to make it wider.
212
We did consider other changes, but widening is the priority for safety and comfort.
213
Now, we also looked at the proposal for a pedestrian crossing near the river entrance.
214
We had hoped to go ahead this financial year, but the highways team has advised that the original location is not suitable.
215
There is a bend in the approach road, so it would be dangerous for drivers and pedestrians so
216
that will need reconsidering before we proceed finally on station road near the station entrance drivers can face long waits
217
when the barrier is down we have now put up signs asking motorists not to leave their engines running
218
while they wait this should reduce fumes for pedestrians
219
and cyclists on the pavement thank you next on the agenda
220
is the heritage trail arrangements yes since we've agreed to promote
221
the heritage trail we need to organize a few practical features
222
on the route shown on the map think of the lower half as the lower lawn
223
which is the open area around the main entrance
224
and the upper loop as the upper zone
225
which sits closer to the river
226
and the statue first we will install a new notice board right at the main entrance on the south side,
227
so it is the first thing visitors see as they step onto the lower lawn.
228
We also need seating.
229
The best place for picnic benches is in the park in the southwest corner, under the trees, away from the narrow riverside sections.
230
For families, we are adding a small children's play area.
231
This will be just north of the park, on the short link path that connects the park to the main loop,
232
so it is close enough for parents but not inside the main seating space.
233
We have also had complaints about bikes being left against railings, so we are adding cycle parking on the south -east side of the lower lawn,
234
on the stretch of path that leads towards the lower bridge.
235
For views, we are creating a lookout point in the upper zone, near the north side of the loop,
236
where visitors can look across the river bend and see both bridges.
237
Finally, we need a clear meeting point for guided groups.
238
We will use the open space on the west side of the upper zone, north -west of the park, and just below the statue area,
239
so groups can gather without blocking the steps.
240
Part 2.
241
You will hear a talk giving advice on how to reach several viewpoints in a national park.
242
Good morning everyone and thanks for joining us at Ridgeway National Park.
243
I'm Sam Carter from Visitor Services
244
and my job today is to give you practical guidance for reaching the main viewpoints safely and with the least hassle.
245
To begin, a quick history lesson about the upper viewpoint route.
246
It wasn't built with hikers in mind.
247
Years ago, it served as a maintenance track so park vehicles could reach the ridge.
248
When people discovered the panorama from the top, the authority decided to open the track to the public and install signposts.
249
The route is considered safe, but it remains narrow in several stretches.
250
Please keep to one side, allow others to pass and try not to stop in the centre of the path.
251
Next, the lower access road is changing.
252
Starting next month, private cars will no longer be permitted to drive up to the lower trailhead rather than widen the road
253
which would disturb the surrounding habitat the park is introducing a
254
shuttle bus from the main parking area this will cut congestion
255
and reduce pressure on wildlife corridors shuttles will operate at 15 minute intervals
256
and you can buy tickets at the visitor center before you
257
set off people often assume the challenge is simply the distance however However, recent visitor feedback tells a different story.
258
The most common difficulty is the uneven surface underfoot.
259
Stones, exposed roots and sudden dips can be tiring, and after rainfall certain sections become slippery,
260
increasing the chance of a fall.
261
To make the walk safer, new handrails are being fitted along the steepest parts,
262
and and extra warning signs will be placed near sharp corners and hazard points.
263
So how should you prepare?
264
We're not asking you to invest in expensive specialist veer, but we do strongly recommend checking the weather forecast before you start.
265
Mountain conditions can change quickly, and strong winds or heavy rain may make the paths unsafe.
266
comfortable shoes with good grip are a sensible choice
267
and carrying water is always wise even on cooler days there's
268
also a small shelter near the river crossing it will remain open for use
269
but it will no longer store emergency supplies think of it
270
as a rest stop you can sit eat a snack and then continue you.
271
Please take any rubbish with you when you leave.
272
Finally, a word about the three key viewpoints.
273
Eagle Point is the highest with a broad valley view,
274
but afternoon gusts can be severe so the viewing platform closes after 3pm.
275
River Lookout is easier to reach and popular with families.
276
The scenery shifts with the seasons so many people come back several times a year.
277
Sunset Ridge is the only viewpoint where staying after dark is allowed, which is why photographers love it.
278
Before I finish, two guided activities start next month, night photography sessions and forest cycling tours.
279
Both are led by trained guides and can be booked online.
280
Enjoy your visit and walk carefully.
281
part 2 you will hear an access officer giving information about
282
a barrier -free walking route at cranley waterside trail hello everyone and welcome to the cranley waterside trail My name's Erin Holt,
283
and I'm the access officer for the site.
284
Before we set off, I'll explain today's barrier -free route, point out three help points, and mention two new guided sessions.
285
To begin with, a quick note on the place itself.
286
Cranley Wharf looks modern now, but it used to be a boat -building yard.
287
People sometimes say it was a grain warehouse, but the historic records show it was mainly used for repairing small fishing boats.
288
Next, an update on the harbour steps.
289
They're staying in place, because removing them would mean closing the riverside path for months.
290
Instead, we're building a ramp beside the steps, with handrails on both sides and a non -slip surface.
291
Work should start next month, so the route will be even smoother later in the season.
292
Now, why is the route different from the one on last year's leaflet?
293
The short answer is resurfacing work.
294
There are temporary barriers along Dock Street and a section of uneven paving, so we're avoiding that stretch and keeping to the wider promenade.
295
Here's the key instruction.
296
Follow the blue access signs.
297
They're fixed to the posts at each junction, low enough to be seen from a wheelchair, and they indicate the gentlest gradient.
298
If you miss a sign, don't guess.
299
Turn back to the previous corner because some side lanes have high curbs.
300
Please keep backpacks to body on the narrow sections and give way at pinch points.
301
If you need to stop, pull to the side so others can pass.
302
A warning about the canal footbridge.
303
It looks like the quickest way across, and for confident walkers it's fine, but the approach on the far side is steep.
304
Also, the metal surface can be slippery after rain.
305
For that reason, it isn't recommended for wheelchair users.
306
Stay on the riverside path and cross at the traffic lights on Market Street instead.
307
Now, the three help points.
308
At the Mariner's Museum entrance, you'll find automatic doors, which means you can enter without needing someone to hold them open.
309
The staff inside can also lend a small ramp for the display room, but that's only during normal opening hours.
310
At Willow Park Pavilion, seating is provided under cover.
311
It's a good stop if you need a break, and there's a drinking fountain beside the benches.
312
Please keep the central space clear as emergency vehicles may need to pass.
313
Finally, at the Eastgate Library desk, staff can assist with directions, accessible toilets and taxi numbers.
314
They also have large print leaflets, though we found the blue signs are the easiest way to navigate.
315
Before I finish, two new guided sessions, a sign language tour on Saturday mornings and an audio described tour on Sunday afternoons.
316
The Children's Treasure Walk and the Evening Photography Walk continue as before, but please book those online because places fill quickly.
317
If you need extra help, please speak to me now, not later today.
318
Right, let's get started.
319
Part 2.
320
You will hear a guide giving visitors an introduction to the layout and facilities of Greenbridge Park.
321
Good evening everyone and welcome.
322
I am delighted to introduce our speaker tonight,
323
Dr Helen Murray, who will be talking about the development and current layout of Greenbridge Park.
324
Helen, thank you for joining us.
325
Thank you.
326
Greenbridge Park is now one of the most popular public spaces in the area, but its origins are rather unusual.
327
In the early 1900s, this part of town was mainly industrial land, with warehouses and storage yards near the river.
328
When several of those businesses closed, the land stood empty for a number of years.
329
The local authority eventually purchased the site not to improve transport links as some people have suggested
330
but specifically to create a shared outdoor space for residents at the time there were very few facilities for exercise
331
or leisure activities in this district at first some councillors thought
332
improving transport links would be more beneficial however after reviewing local surveys the council decided
333
that creating recreational facilities should be the main priority improved access between different neighborhoods happened later but
334
that was never the main reason for establishing the park at
335
the heart of the park you will see the large fountain some people assumed it was purely decorative
336
and a few even believed it replaced an older structure in reality it was intended as a meeting point.
337
Encircling the park is a designated cycle path.
338
While it is occasionally used by people commuting to work, it was designed mainly with recreational users in mind.
339
The council wanted families and casual cyclists to have a safe route away from traffic.
340
The outdoor gym equipment
341
that you may have noticed near the southern pathway was not
342
part of the original plan it was introduced relatively recently following a public consultation process
343
several residents had requested more fitness facilities
344
and the installation formed part of a wider upgrade program now let me take you through the layout carefully
345
if you enter from the west gate the bike wentel station is immediately inside the entrance
346
and slightly south of the main path.
347
Walking north from there towards the river, you will reach the viewing platform positioned along the northern edge beside the water.
348
If you then follow the riverside path eastwards, the children's path will reach the river playground is located in the northeast corner, close to the east gate.
349
Now return towards the centre of the park and you will see the large fountain where the main paths cross.
350
Just above the fountain and to the left, in the upper left section inside the circular path, is the picnic area.
351
It lies in the northwest part of the central layout
352
and is separated from the river by the outer walkway moving across to the opposite side of the fountain
353
but remaining in the upper half of the park you will
354
find the information center it is on the eastern side slightly above the horizontal path
355
that runs through the middle if you continue further down on the eastern side below
356
that central path
357
and closer to the southeast section you will reach the first aid point in In the lower right part of the park,
358
near the curved outer path, is the outdoor gym.
359
Finally, the drinking water station is in the south -west section of the park.
360
To find it, walk directly south from the fountain towards the south gate.
361
It is in the lower left part of the park, below the picnic area, and separated from it by the central path.
362
Part 2.
363
You will hear a talk about a new cycle lane development in a public park.
364
Good morning everyone and welcome to Riverside Park.
365
Before you begin your walk,
366
we have invited Park Officer Samir Patel to explain the recent changes and then talk you through the map.
367
Over to you, Samir.
368
Thanks, and hello.
369
I will start with the cycle lane development.
370
Some people said the whole project was really about bringing in more visitors, and others believed it was mainly a way to create extra parking.
371
In fact, the aim was to improve access for cyclists traveling into town,
372
particularly at commuting times, by giving them a continuous route that stays inside the park boundary.
373
Next, I want to mention the meadow beside the river.
374
It was not left undeveloped simply to reduce construction costs, and it is not being kept empty for future building plans.
375
The reason for keeping the meadow as it is was to encourage wildlife.
376
Since it has been protected, we have noticed far more butterflies and bees in summer, and more birds feeding there early in the morning.
377
You will also see a new footbridge across the water.
378
Some residents assumed it was a replacement for an older crossing further upstream, while others imagined it would be mainly for taking photographs.
379
The real purpose is safety.
380
The bridge is wider, has handrails on both sides, and it keeps walkers away from the traffic on the road bridge nearby.
381
Finally, there is the garden area.
382
It is not designed for organized public events, and it is not intended for children's activities.
383
It's mainly meant for quiet relaxation, with low planting, a circular path, and seats set back from the busiest route.
384
Now let me guide you around the map.
385
If you come in from the main entrance at the bottom, the car park is directly in front of you.
386
It is the only large paved area, and there is a ticket machine in the middle.
387
Just to the left of the entrance, near the path that curves uphill, you will find the information board.
388
That is where park notices and trail updates are posted.
389
From there, follow the left -hand path as it climbs towards the river.
390
Before you reach the water, you will pass the bicycle rental station beside the path under the trees.
391
If you keep going, the path runs along the river edge and opens out into the meadow, which stretches across the northern part of the park.
392
On the far right of that riverside section, you will see the new footbridge crossing the narrow channel and linking the path to the east side.
393
Now return towards the center.
394
The seating area is close to the pond, just south of it, with picnic tables and benches grouped together.
395
If you have questions, staff are usually near the information board in the morning.
396
Enjoy your visit, please keep to the paths, and do not feed the wildlife.
397
There are drinking fountains near the central path and bins at each junction, so the park stays tidy.
398
Thank you.

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Vocabulary and speaking notes for this lesson

This speaking lesson is built on the video “1 Hour IELTS Listening October Part 2”. The speaker keeps coming back to these words: park, path, river, main. This video has 398 sentences and 5419 words to shadow. The speech runs for 40:01. The speaker talks at a steady 135 words per minute, a comfortable pace for shadowing. 82% of the words are among the 3,000 most common in English; the rest is worth studying before you start.

Key vocabulary in this video

15 words from the video worth learning, with pronunciation and meaning:

WordPronunciationMeaning
entrance noun/ˈɛn.tɹəns/The action of entering, or going in.
riverside noun/ˈɹɪvɚˌsaɪd/A bank or side of a river.
trail noun/tɹeɪl/The track or indication marking the route followed by something that has passed, such as the footprints of animal on land or the contrail of an airplane in the…
visitor noun/ˈvɪzɪtɚ/Someone who visits someone else; someone staying as a guest.
fountain noun/ˈfaʊn.tɪn/A natural source of water; a spring.
beside/bɪˈsaɪd/Next to; at the side of.
viewpoint noun/ˈvjuː.pɔɪnt/The position from which something is observed or considered
narrow adjective/ˈnæɹəʊ/Having a small width; not wide; having opposite edges or sides that are close, especially by comparison to length or depth.
heritage noun/ˈhɛɹ.ɪ.tɪd͡ʒ/An inheritance; property that may be inherited.
stretch verb/stɹɛt͡ʃ/To lengthen by pulling.
barrier noun/ˈbæɹi.ə/A structure that bars passage.
layout noun/ˈleɪ.aʊt/A structured arrangement of items within certain limits.
picnic noun/ˈpɪknɪk/An informal social gathering, usually in a natural outdoor setting, to which the participants bring their own food and drink.
cyclist noun/ˈsaɪ.klɪst/A person who rides a cycle, especially a bicycle, or who habitually engages in cycling.
gate noun/ˈɡeɪ̯t/A doorlike structure outside a house.

Phrasal verbs you will hear

WordPronunciationMeaning
set off verbTo leave; to set out; to begin a journey or trip.
carry out verb/ˈkæ.ɹi aʊt/To hold while moving it out.
come back verbTo return to a place.
go ahead verb/ˌɡoʊ əˈhɛd/To proceed with; to begin.
point out verbTo identify among a group of similar subjects, or in a scene where the subject might not be readily seen or noticed, with a gesture of the body.
put up verbTo place in a high location.
run along verbTo leave; to make one's way somewhere else.
run through verbTo summarise briefly.

Grammar in this video

The structures the speaker uses most, with the exact words from the video:

StructureIn the video
“Used to” used to + verb — a past habit or state that is no longer trueused to be
Present perfect have/has + past participle — a past action that still matters nowhas become · has advised · have now put
Passive voice be + past participle — the focus is on what happens, not who does itwas improved · being left · wasn't built
Relative clauses who / which + clause — extra information about a person or thingallowed, which is · doors, which means

Pronunciation to watch

The speaker uses 27 contractions and reduced forms, such as we're, I'm, they're. Say them the short way, as you hear them.

  • The “th” sounds: gather /ˈɡæðɚ/, southeast /sawˈθɪjst/, northwest /nɔɹθˈwɛst/, southwest /saʊθˈwɛst/
  • The “sh” and “zh” sounds: junction /ˈd͡ʒʌŋkʃən/, sharp /ʃɑɹp/, establish /ɪˈstæb.lɪʃ/, unusual /ʌnˈjuːʒ(u)əl/, occasionally /əˈkeɪʒənəli/
  • Long words — get the stress right: photography /fəˈtɑ.ɡɹə.fi/, priority /pɹaɪˈɒɹɪti/, temporary /ˈtɛmp(əˌɹ)ɛɹi/, unusual /ʌnˈjuːʒ(u)əl/, occasionally /əˈkeɪʒənəli/

How to practise with this video

  1. Listen to the whole video once without speaking and note the words you do not know.
  2. Shadow it sentence by sentence at normal speed, repeating each one until your rhythm matches the speaker.
  3. Record yourself and compare with the original, paying attention to words like entrance, riverside, trail.

What is the Shadowing Technique?

Shadowing is a science-backed language learning technique originally developed for professional interpreter training and popularized by polyglot Dr. Alexander Arguelles. The method is simple but powerful: you listen to native English audio and immediately repeat it out loud — like a shadow following the speaker with just a 1–2 second delay. Unlike passive listening or grammar drills, shadowing forces your brain and mouth muscles to simultaneously process and reproduce real speech patterns. Research shows it significantly improves pronunciation accuracy, intonation, rhythm, connected speech, listening comprehension, and speaking fluency — making it one of the most effective methods for IELTS Speaking preparation and real-world English communication.

Shadowing technique: read the full step-by-step guide →