How to prepare for the IELTS Speaking Test
IELTS oral questions are often repeated and therefore it is a good idea to review the latest IELTS test quizzes. This will help you get a basic idea of the type of questions being asked. And if you’re lucky, you might get asked the same set of questions. You can find sample answers to oral questions on many websites. However, as you prepare for the test, don’t memorize the long answers. Remember that examiners are trained to distinguish learned from spontaneous responses. If they suspect that you are saying answers that have been memorized, you will get no grade.
No right or wrong answers
The IELTS Speaking test is not a test of your general knowledge. The examiner is only interested in assessing your English speaking skills. That means there are no right or wrong answers to the questions. All answers will get points as long as they are in good English.
Use a varied and advanced vocabulary.
When discussing non-personal topics, you must demonstrate your range of vocabulary by using a variety of words. Testers are specifically interested in whether you can use complex sentences. Even if you make a few mistakes, you’ll get credit for your attempts.
You can pause, but not for that long.
If you can’t answer a question right away, say a filler sentence like the ones given below.
- Good question!
- Well, actually, I had never thought of this before.
- Well let me see…
- Let me think about it.
The advantage of using a filler phrase is that it will give you a few seconds to think of an answer. However, don’t expect too much. If you do that, you will get less points for fluency.
speak louder
You must speak loud enough for the examiner to hear you properly. As you speak, pronounce your words as clearly and correctly as possible.
Speech Module Overview
The speech module consists of three parts. It takes between 11 and 14 minutes. Please note that all speaking tasks in this module are recorded. It’s easy to get a band score of 8 in the Speaking module – you just need to express your views clearly and coherently. Avoid one word answers.
Part 1: Introduction and interview
This part lasts four to five minutes. The examiner introduces himself and verifies her identity. Please note that she must present a valid ID or passport. All the questions asked in the first part are about topics with which he is familiar. Generally, questions are asked on up to three topics. For example, some questions could be about his work or studies; some questions might be about the city you live in or its transportation system. You don’t need any specialized knowledge or skills to answer these questions. However, you must be able to give your answers in fluent and correct English.
Part 2: Individual speech
You will be given a task card with a topic and a list of questions. You should discuss these questions during this task. You will be given one minute to prepare your response and take notes. He will then speak on this topic for about two minutes. Please note that your speech must answer all the questions given on the task card: if you don’t, your score will drop. You have to finish your speech in two minutes: if you don’t, the examiner will stop you. The examiner may also ask one or two questions to complete this part. This section takes three to four minutes.
Part 3: Two-Way Discussion
During this section, you will have to engage in a discussion with the examiner. The discussion is usually based on the questions asked in Part 2.