The International English Language Testing System, or IELTS, is an international standardized test of English language proficiency. Here are some FAQs regarding it.
FAQs for the Speaking Module
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How to prepare for the speaking module?
Try to speak on any random topic, listen to different podcasts, and build confidence.
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How Many sections are there in the speaking test?
There are three sections in the IELTS speaking module, (A) Introductory questions (B) cue card, (C) follow-up questions.
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How long the IELTS speaking test is?
The IELTS speaking test generally lasts for 12-15 minutes.
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Should we greet the examiner?
Yes, you should.
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How should I speak in front of the examiner?
You should be calm and using formal language.
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Can I ask questions to the examiner?
In some cases, when you are not able to listen to the examiner or could not understand the question, you can ask them to repeat it but not very often. You can not ask counter-questions.
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How the IELTS speaking test is assessed?
The IELTS speaking test is assessed on the basis of your ability to speak, listen, and understanding the topic. Your confidence level is observed. The knowledge of grammar plays a big role in it.
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Which vocabulary should be used in my speaking test?
You should use the vocabulary which is appropriate to the topic which has been asked of you and which fits the sentence grammatically. Your grammar knowledge plays a very big role in the assessment.
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How should I dress for my IELTS speaking test?
Your way of dressing is not part of the assessment. But Yes, of course, you should be presentable enough.
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How much time is given to prepare the given topic?
In section one, you will be asked general questions which you will be required to answer spontaneously, while in section 2, which is a cue card, you will be given 1 minute to prepare, and in section 3 you will be asked to follow up questions (related to the cue card topic) which again are to be answered immediately.
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When should I stop speaking in section 2?
Your examiner will ask you to stop once he will have satisfaction. You should not take that call on your own.
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How are IELTS Speaking scores calculated?
The examiner will pay attention to four main areas: (1) How fluent and understandable your answer is; (2) The range and accuracy of vocabulary you use; (3) The range and accuracy of grammatical forms you use; (4) Your pronunciation.
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10 Common Mistakes to Avoid in IELTS Speaking
- Silence
- Memorized answers
- Overuse of transition signals
- Parroting the question
- Answering the wrong question
- Saying ‘I don’t understand’
- Saying too much or too little
- Poor pronunciation
- Flat intonation
- Asking for the examiner’s opinion