Tips for IELTS Writing

W Work with a coach. Practice is one way to enhance your writing skills. However, it would be ideal if you practice with a teacher or IELTS coach that will correct your output. You can never be prepared to combat the IELTS writing tasks without receiving feedbacks on your writing errors. For those who are in a tight budget and cannot afford to hire an IELTS coach, you can work on your own but be sure to have a good IELTS preparatory manual that will serve as your guide in honing of that writing ability. R Read through the instructions and questions carefully. Aside from the main question, the point of issue often will ask you to address three or four things. Make sure to get these queries and discuss them in your answer. I Inspect your watch! Keep track of your time! Monitor your own progress! Remember you only have one hour to finish both writing tasks. For those who have difficulty hitting the 60-minute mark for tasks 1 and 2, speed is developed by practicing constantly. T Think and write it out. While rehearsing your writing ability, sit and write out tasks 1 and 2. Some people are not actually writing the brilliant ideas they were thinking while reading the question. Thus, a structured format approach should be utilized in this case. Repetitive writing can also be avoided if you practice, practice and practice. I Inscribe those words legibly! Messy writing is not a criterion in marking your written output. However, if the examiner cannot read what you have written, then, you are not getting any mark either. Before taking the examination, my coach kept on reminding me about my writing because the words are too small and she had difficulty reading them. Keep in mind than an unreadable output means no mark at all! N No reason to start writing immediately for task 1. Yes, I told you to keep track of your time. But dont start writing immediately after looking at the graph or table and understanding what is asked and given. Before writing, make sure that you know what each axis represents and the units that are used. Even if you finished writing task 1 for 10 minutes but the data written is incorrect you will never hit your target mark. G Go for task 2 first! Task 2 in the IELTS writing section is easier to compose and is worth more mark than task 1. I am not saying that you should ignore the other component in this section, but making sure you completed the part which weighs more points to your mark is a wise choice.

ELTS Writing IELTS examination is also designed to test a candidates ability to produce pieces of writing for a relatively short period of time. The test consists of two parts and is different in each version ofIELTS examination. Test Duration

sample for academic writing task 1

An examinee is given one hour (60 minutes) to complete the two tasks. All candidates are required to write at least 150 words for Task 1 where they are advised to spend only 20 minutes for this part to allot more time for the Task 2. In the second part, the candidate is required to write at least 250 words. Both pieces of writing are submitted after one hour. If you can finish your task 1 for 30 minutes, be sure to finish writing the next part for half an hour. However, keep in mind during the test that Task 2 has a higher weight in scoring than that of Task 1. Writing Tasks There are two parts in this module and differences are noted in each version of IELTS examination. However, the pieces of writing should be in formal style for both types. Academic Writing Test TASK 1: In this part, graphs, diagrams, charts (pie, bar, line, etc) or tables are presented. The candidate is asked to summarize, describe or explain the given data in his or her own words. A descriptive report is required in Task 2 by describing processes, comparing relevant data or discussing how something works. A mistake commonly committed in this task is when the candidates attempts to interpret the data provided. TASK 2: In this section, a point of view of a problem or argument is presented. The candidate is asked to produce a

Sample GT Writing Task 1

written argument in response to the issue given by providing reasons for his or her idea and presenting relevant examples if possible. Subjects or issues raised in this task are of general interest which is appropriate and clearly understood by the professional candidates planning to enter a postgraduate study or professional registration in other countries. The second section is longer than the other thats why you are advised to spend 40 minutes in completing the task. General Training (GT) Writing Test TASK 1: This part involves writing a letter from a given situation. The letter in personal, semi-formal or formal forms should focus on requesting for information or explaining an incident. TASK 2: Unlike the academic version, the essay in this section for GT cab slightly more personal. The examinees are asked to produce a paper in response to a point of view, problem or argument. Still the topics are of general interest. General Tips Writing Task 2 weighs twice as much as Task 1 to the writing score, therefore, avoid spending too much time on the first part. But do not neglect Task 1 also. Some candidates start writing with the second task. It is entirely up to you to budget your time for 1 hour and choose which are you going to work first. Writing legibly is also vital to pass the test. Even if the data organization and comparison is presented excellently once the assessor cannot read your essay you will sure have a poor mark.

IELTS Examination Listening There are four components or modules in an IELTS examination. These modules (listening, reading, writing and listening) should be completed by a candidate to obtain a band score. The scores will be reflected in an IELTS test report form (TRF). Listening test in both Academic and General Versions are the same. Test Duration The duration of the listening test is about thirty (30) minutes. Twenty (20) minutes is allotted for answering the 40 test questions while paying attention on the played cassette tape recorder. The remaining ten minutes apportioned for the examinees to transfer their answers in the provided answer sheet. The listening material recorded on a tape is only played once. That is why, it is very important not to spend too much time taking notes in one item that you might miss some important points for the proceeding questions.

sample question in IELTS listening

There are four sections in the listening test staged in an order of difficulty. Section one will be in a form of dialogue and the topic is on general interest. The next section is still focused on general interest. Most likely one speaker will be presenting the topic in this part. Sections two and three will spotlight the education and training. These portions will probably have up to four speakers. Before the Test Before the listening test starts, a test booklet and an answer sheet will be provided. Dont forget to write your name in the answer sheet because you will flunk the exam without this basic action. As you listen to the conversation, you should also write your answers in the test booklet. Notes are written on this paper. Others are directing their answers immediately to the answer sheet. This is not wrong, but you can focus more if you are jotting down your notes in the test booklet where the questions are found. Always remember, you are given 10 minutes to transfer your answers in the answer sheet after the recording has ended. So, rather than staring at the ceiling during the last 10 minutes make use of it! General Tips

Handwritings should also be legible. If no one in the world can read your answers except yourself, Im telling you, you will fail this test. Some people are used to write words in minute or tiny letters. If you are that person, before taking IELTS, you should practice writing legibly meaning writing in a way that can be read by others. It should neither be too large or small, just enough to be read by others. This is helpful especially in the writing part. And most importantly, to divert all your focus on listening and getting the correct answer, please take note of this dont ever panic! images from englishonline.org.cn

IELTS Speaking The speaking module of IELTS examination is a one-to-one oral interaction between the candidate and the examiner. The speaking session is recorded and consists of three parts. These three sections allow the assessor to evaluate the candidate in four criteria of IELTS Speaking Test Band Descriptors which are: 1. 2. 3. fluency and coherence lexical resource grammatical range and accuracy

4. pronunciation Duration The speaking test takes around 11-14 minutes. Examination Description During the face-to-face oral interview, a friendly conversation most likely covers certain aspect of your past, present and future situations. The interviewer directs the discussion through questions which gives you opportunity to communicate opinions and information on general topics, common experiences and situations. By answering a range of questions the examiner evaluates the extensive range of speaking skills. Competence in speaking at length on a designated topic utilizing correct grammar usage, logical data organization and clarity and analysis of expressed opinions are also assessed. Speaking Test Sections The interview has three portions: 1. General questions of yourself In this part, the interviewer introduces him/herself. The examiner then asks the candidate to identify him/herself and later confirms the examinees identity by asking for a valid identification card. Following the exchange of introduction, questions about family, work, school, home, studies, interests and other familiar topics (general questions) will be asked. This part usually lasts about 4-5 minutes. Sample questions: Where do you live?

Tell me something about your place. Describe the public transport in your place. Which do you prefer living in your hometown or here in the city? What do you like about living in a rural area? What subject is the hardest for you? Tell me something about your job. What are your plans for the future? 2. One-way discussion

Sample of IELTS task card

The interviewer chooses a specific topic for the candidate and gives the task card to him/her. Written in the card are the particular topic and aspects of the subject which the candidate can talk about. To prepare for the discussion, the examinee is given one minute to write an outline for his or her speech. A pencil and paper will be provided for making the notes. After the preparation phase, the candidate is given 1-2 minutes to talk about the topic. Usually the assessor takes back the task card before you start talking. However, you may request him/her to let you view the task card while talking and referring to your notes. After the short speech, the examiner asks a couple of related questions on the topic. This section usually lasts for 3-4 minutes. 3. Two-way discussion Additional questions directly or indirectly related to the topic of Part Two will be raised. This allows the interviewer to assess the ability of the candidate to expound and speculate about issues. At about 4-5 minutes this part is completed. General Tips Practice is one of the most important key to improve this skill. It is also essential to calm down and speak with confidence during the interview. Too much anxiety causes difficulty of the candidate to draw him/herself into the conversation even though they have good speaking skills.

One of the most critical aspects of IELTS examination is the Speaking module. A mistake in this area may change an examinees overall points. To do well in the IELTS Speaking examsegment, you should be thoroughly prepared. In this area, ones peaking power and natural flair for the English language is tested. Questions should be answered accurately and with confidence. The following are some tips that will help you pass the Speaking Module of theIELTS examination. 1. 2. Do not speak too fast or too slow. Make sure to include more information in your answer. Dont just give one word answers. Many questions can be answered with just a Yes or No but you can usually expand on this a little e.g. Yes, because Give the examiner something to work with.

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Never hesitate to ask the interviewer again, in case you have not understood or heard any question properly. But do it politely. If you dont understand what the examiner has said to you, dont worry, just say you didnt understand what he said or ask him to repeat the question. You are being marked on your speaking, not listening

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ability. Do not focus on your accent rather on the clarity of your speech. The most important thing in the speaking module is how you enunciate that the examiner can understand what you are saying. If pronunciation problem is bothering you, practicing ahead of time is the only solution. It would be better to get a feel of interviews at your home. Ask your friends or family members to conduct a one-on-one interview sessions with you and test your speaking skills

5. 6.

Use formal English language in answering questions. Slang or informal language does not parade the best English you knew for years. Never attempt to memorize answers. There are no right answers in the speaking module. The examiner is concerned with how you answer the questions rather than what your answer is. Indeed, if you answered with an opinion that was contrary to the examiners own, or if you said something the examiner found offensive, it should not affect your score.

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Be confident! Sometimes, students mumble and speak very softly because they are nervous or unsure of their words. Use simple, correct language rather than complicated vocabulary and speak loudly enough that the examiner does not have to strain to hear you. This indicates self-confidence and command of the language.

One of the most critical aspects of IELTS examination is the Speaking module. A mistake in this area may change an examinees overall points. To do well in the IELTS Speaking examsegment, you should be thoroughly prepared. In this area, ones peaking power and natural flair for the English language is tested. Questions should be answered accurately and with confidence. The following are some tips that will help you pass the Speaking Module of theIELTS examination. 1. 2. Do not speak too fast or too slow. Make sure to include more information in your answer. Dont just give one word answers. Many questions can be answered with just a Yes or No but you can usually expand on this a little e.g. Yes, because Give the examiner something to work with. Never hesitate to ask the interviewer again, in case you have not understood or heard any question properly. But do it politely. If you dont understand what the examiner has said to you, dont worry, just say you didnt understand what he said or ask him to repeat the question. You are being marked on your speaking, not listening 4. ability. Do not focus on your accent rather on the clarity of your speech. The most important thing in the speaking module is how you enunciate that the examiner can understand what you are saying. If pronunciation problem is bothering you, practicing ahead of time is the only solution. It would be better to get a feel of interviews at your home. Ask your friends or family members to conduct a one-on-one interview sessions with you and test your speaking skills 5. 6. Use formal English language in answering questions. Slang or informal language does not parade the best English you knew for years. Never attempt to memorize answers. There are no right answers in the speaking module. The examiner is concerned with how you answer the questions rather than what your answer is. Indeed, if you answered with an opinion that was contrary to the examiners own, or if you said something the examiner found offensive, it should not affect your score.

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7.

Be confident! Sometimes, students mumble and speak very softly because they are nervous or unsure of their words. Use simple, correct language rather than complicated vocabulary and speak loudly enough that the examiner does not have to strain to hear you. This indicates self-confidence and command of the language.