IELTS stands for the International English Language Testing System. The IELTS system is renowned and globally acknowledged as the most popular English language proficiency test for higher education and international migration. Whether your goal is to pursue studies, advance your career, or establish residence in an English-speaking nation, IELTS serves as a crucial pathway.
The Reading module of the IELTS test has a duration of 60 minutes, which includes transfer time. It consists of three sections, with the total text length ranging from 2,150 to 2,750 words. Within these sections, there are a total of 40 questions. Each correct answer is assigned 1 mark, and the final score is presented as a band score on a scale from 1 to 9, with scores given in whole or half bands (e.g., 4 or 6.5). This module assesses the candidate's ability to comprehend and analyze written information, making it an integral part of the overall IELTS examination.
The reading materials in the IELTS test are sourced from a variety of mediums, including books, journals, magazines, newspapers, and online resources. These texts are specifically curated for a general audience rather than specialists and cover topics that are of broad interest to students at both the undergraduate and postgraduate levels. The styles of these texts may vary, encompassing narrative, descriptive, or discursive/argumentative approaches. At least one text includes a detailed logical argument. Additionally, the texts may incorporate diagrams, graphs, or illustrations. In instances where technical vocabulary is used, a straightforward dictionary definition is provided for clarity.
There are two writing tasks in the IELTS Academic Writing section. Both Writing tasks are compulsory in the IELTS examination.
For Task 1, you are required to articulate a description of visual information, such as a graph, table, chart, or diagram, using your own words. This task necessitates a minimum of 150 words and should be completed within approximately 20 minutes. In Task 2, you will be presented with a specific point of view, argument, or problem that requires a thorough discussion. Your response should be a minimum of 250 words and should be completed within about 40 minutes. This task assesses your ability to present and develop a coherent argument on a given topic.
The paper is divided into four sections, each containing ten questions. The questions follow the sequence of information presented in the recording, meaning that the answer to the first question corresponds to information presented earlier than the answer to the second question, and so forth. Sections 1 and 2 focus on everyday social situations. Section 1 involves a conversation between two speakers, such as discussing travel arrangements. Section 2 features only one person speaking, delivering a speech on topics like local facilities. Sections 3 and 4 address educational and training scenarios. In Section 3, a conversation occurs between two main speakers, potentially university students discussing a topic guided by a tutor. Section 4 involves a solo presentation on an academic subject. The recordings, played only once, include various accents like British, Australian, New Zealand, and North American.
The Speaking test is a face-to-face interview between you and an examiner, and the entire session is recorded. The test consists of three parts, each designed with a specific pattern of tasks to assess your speaking abilities in diverse ways.
During the initial segment of the assessment, the examiner initiates the session by introducing themselves and verifying your identity. Subsequently, a series of general inquiries are posed regarding familiar subjects like home, family, work, studies, or personal interests. Part 1, spans 4–5 minutes. The primary skills tested during this phase involve the capacity to articulate opinions and provide information concerning everyday topics and common experiences. Candidates are evaluated based on their ability to respond to a variety of questions, thereby demonstrating their proficiency in conveying thoughts and information within the given context.
Part 2 of the test involves an individual long turn where the examiner provides a task card with a specific topic. You are given one minute to prepare during which you can make notes using a pencil and paper provided by the examiner. The task card helps to outline points to be included in your talk and also instructs you to explain a single aspect of the topic. You aim to speak for 2 minutes, using your points and notes to structure your response.
This section assesses your ability to articulate thoughts on a given topic, employ appropriate language and organize ideas coherently. The examiner may pose one or two additional questions on the same topic after your long turn. Part 2 lasts 3–4 minutes, including preparation time.
Part 3 of the test involves a discussion with the examiner on issues related to the Part 2 topic, conducted in a more general and abstract manner, and occasionally in greater depth. This section lasts 4–5 minutes. The skills tested in Part 3 include your ability to elucidate your opinions, and analyze, discuss, and speculate on various issues. It assesses your capacity to engage in a more nuanced conversation about the given topic.
This option is suitable if you are planning to migrate to an English-speaking country (such as Australia, Canada, New Zealand, or the UK) or if your goal is to undergo training or study at a level below a degree.
The test is divided into three sections of increasing difficulty. Section 1 includes two or three short texts or several shorter texts covering everyday topics. It requires understanding important information from notices, advertisements, and timetables. Section 2 focuses on work-related topics such as job descriptions, contracts, staff development, and training materials. Section 3 contains one long and complex text of general interest, often descriptive and instructive, sourced from newspapers, magazines, books, and online resources.
There are two writing tasks in this section and both Writing tasks are mandatory.
For Task 1, you must compose a letter in response to a given situation, such as seeking information or explaining a circumstance. Your response should be a minimum of 150 words, and you have approximately 20 minutes to complete this task. Task 2 requires you to engage with a given point of view, argument, or problem in a discussion format. Your written response should be a minimum of 250 words, and you have about 40 minutes to complete this task.
The Speaking and Listening tests are the same as the IELTS Academic module.
You should select this module if you intend to pursue studies at the undergraduate or postgraduate levels or if you are aiming for professional registration, such as for professions like doctors and nurses.
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