Learn IELTS Speaking Tips - Quality IELTS Preparation COurse In Hong Kong · Jun 3, 09:29 AM

IELTS Exam

The IELTS exam is skills based and tests all four areas of language ability in realistic ways. All the modules, whether they be academic or general purpose, test you ability to function in the sorts of specific situations you will come across when studying overseas or working as a new immigrant in a foreign country.

IELTS Speaking Test

The speaking test lasts around 15 minutes (usually 11-14) and entails a one to one interview with a trained examiner. All the conversations are recorded, so you may ask for your paper to be remarked if you are not satisfied with the result.

Try to speak naturally and as accurately as possible, but do not worry too much if you make grammatical mistakes. Avoid at all costs giving “Yes” or “No” answers but instead try to answer each question fully and, if possible, give extra information as well. In no event should you change the topic as the examiner will assume you cannot answer the questions and so award a lower score.

The IELTS speaking paper consists of three sections:

1 General Conversation
2 Presentation
3 Discussion

Part One

This is the easiest part of the test. You will have to answer questions on familiar topics such as your home town, your hobbies, shopping, transport and studying.

Typical questions would be:

You should not ask questions in this part of the test but only answer the examiners questions.

Part Two

For some, this is the hardest part because you are totally on your own. You have to give a talk on a topic for 1 to 2 minutes.

The examiner will give you the topic and you cannot choose this yourself. He will give you a pencil and some paper so that you can make notes and you will have 1 minute to prepare for your talk.

A typical question would be:

Describe a book you have read.

Your should say

You should make sure that you answer all the sub-topics fully and completely to get higher marks. In addition, do not recite a memorized speech.

Part Two will end with the examiner asking a couple of follow up questions such as “Do you still have this book?” or “Will you read this book again in the future?”.

Part Three

This is a two way discussion on topics following on the theme of your Part 2 presentation. In reality, this is the hardest part of the IELTS speaking paper.

In this discussion you have to give your opinions (what) and reasons (why) on more sophisticated topics and ideas, as well evaluating and giving possible solutions for social, moral and environmental problems.

Typical questions would be:

In this section it is essential that you clearly state your opinion using a variety of more complex language structures and vocabulary, as well giving your reasons for this opinion backed up with specific examples. Give your opinion with phrases like “I believe” or “In my mind” followed up with your reason using “Since” or “because”.

You will get higher marks if your sentences are cohesive, so remember to use connecting words such as “moreover”, “for instance” and “however”.

Once again, “yes” or “no” answers are unacceptable! You may not be able to understand or answer the last question that the examiner asks, but do not worry as this is the cut-off point where the examiner decides your score.

The best way to prepare for your IELTS exam is by taking an IELTS preparation course. HKEnglish.com runs regular IELTS preparation courses which are customized to your exact needs. Click here to contact them and get more information.

— Charles

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