Monday 3 January 2011

IELTS test format: Speaking

The speaking section of IELTS is probably the easiest part of the whole exam. Remember, the speaking section is usually on a different day then the other parts of the exam. The speaking section is in 3 parts and the exam can take between 8 - 18 minutes, depending on how talkative you are. The speaking section is in a one-to-one format with no group discussions as in the CAE / FCE.

What does the speaking section comprise of:

Section 1 - Introduction and personal interview - here the examiner will start with asking very simple questions to get you comfortable and familiar with your surroundings and to reduce your anxiety. Answer the questions as fully as possible giving extra detail. For instance, if the examiner asks "how is the weather", don't just answer with "it is fine". Be lively and interesting with your answers, the examiner is there to check and test your English language skills so use this chance to build a relationship and show off your English speaking skills.

Section 2 - The card - here the examiner will give you a card with a topic on it with 3-4 sub-questions. You will have 1 minute to make notes about what you want to say and then 2 minutes to talk about the topic. The examiner will not interrupt until you have finished your 2 minutes. The examiner may ask you a question or two to finish it off.

Section 3 - The discussion - This section will be a discussion between you and the examiner and is an abstract discussion loosely based around what you discussed in section 2. The discussion can around 4-8 minutes.

In Istanbul and I imagine elsewhere also, you will need to take two photo identifications with you.

Use every opportunity you get to speak and practice your English.

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