Shadowing Practice: 5-Minute English Shadowing Practice | Episode 3: "Look Forward To" (B1-B2 Level) - Learn English Speaking with Video

This video hones three key speaking skills: mastering the phrase "look forward to" with correct grammar (nouns or verbs ending in -ing), using it in formal and casual contexts, and expressing both positive and negative anticipation. You’ll also learn to ask questions that show interest in others, a crucial skill for natural conversations. Whether you’re practicing with a shadowing app or doing shadowspeak exercises, these skills will make your English sound more fluent and native-like.

Listen For These Sounds: Connected Speech Clues

Notice how native speakers link words in "look forward to"—the "k" in "look" often softens, and "forward to" blends into "forwar-tu." In phrases like "I’m looking forward to meeting you," the "g" in "looking" is reduced, making it sound more like "lookin." These small adjustments are key to sounding natural in english speaking practice. Listen closely to how the speaker connects these words—mirroring this linking will help you speak more smoothly.

Say It Like a Native: Rhythm and Stress

To mirror the speaker’s rhythm, stress the word "forward" in "look forward to" and the main verb in the phrase (e.g., "meeting," "hearing"). In questions like "Are you looking forward to the wedding?" stress "looking" and "wedding" to keep the flow natural. Practice shadow speak by repeating each sentence immediately after the speaker, focusing on matching their pace and emphasis. This will help you internalize the natural rhythm of English, whether you’re using a shadowing app or practicing with a partner. Remember: the goal is to sound conversational, not robotic—so don’t be afraid to mimic the speaker’s enthusiasm (or lack thereof) in the negative forms!