LISTENING

The listening paper is the same in both Academic and the General training modules of the IELTS test. The duration of this test is approximately 30 minutes and you are given 10 minutes to write the answers on a separate answer sheet.

The Four Sections of IELTS Listening:

You will hear four different listening passages on the Listening exam. You will answer 10 questions in each section (40 total). The passages get tougher as you progress through the exam.

Passage 1: This is usually a conversation between two people. Typically, the conversation will involve a basic exchange of information. For example, someone might be placing an order over the phone, or confirming details for a reservation. The topic will be a daily-life situation.

Passage 2: This is usually a monologue (one person speaking). Passage two will also come from a common daily situation. For example, you might hear someone providing directions, or presenting basic information about a place or an event.

Passage 3:The topics become noticeably more challenging in Passage 3. This will be a conversation, often among several people, about an academic topic. You might hear a few students discussing something from class, or a professor providing feedback about an assignment, for example. Passage 3 is tougher because the vocabulary is more difficult, the topics are more complicated, and there are more speakers involved in the discussion.

Passage 4: This will be a lecture from a professor. It could cover any topic from a typical college course. You are not required to have specialized knowledge about the subject matter. However, the language will be difficult and the lecture will be complex. This is the toughest passage on the Listening exam for most students.

Task Type

Notes / Summary / Table / Flow – Chart Completion

Multiple Choice

Short Answer Questions

Sentence Completion

Labelling a diagram, plan or map

Classification

Matching

IELTS Listening Tips:

1. Always check your spelling. If you make a spelling mistake in the IELTS Listening paper, your Answer will be marked Wrong.

2.Before you do each section, you will be given 30 – 45 Seconds to look at the questions. Use this time to study the questions and try to predict what you might hear.

3.Don’t be worried if you see technical terms in the listening questions. These will usually be explained to you.

4.For labeling a map or plan in IELTS, you may need to follow directions, or you may hear a description of a location.

5.For most questions in the listening paper, you will hear two or more potential answers to each question, but only one will correct. The incorrect answers are called distractors.

6.In the IELTS listening paper, sections 1 and 3 are conversations between two or three people. Sections 2 and 4 are monologues with only one main speaker introducing the talk or asking questions.

7.Pay attention to the number of words you need to write. No more than two words means that you may need to write one word or two words only.

8.The distractors for this type of task might be extra buildings marked on the map, or they might be extra options in a list of possible answers.

9.You may need to follow directions to locate a place on the map or plan. Marking the way directly on the map can be helpful.

10.You should study the map or plan carefully before you listen. Having a clear image in your mind will help you understand what you hear.

IELTS READING (ACADEMICS)

Reading is the second part of the IELTS test, and takes 60 minutes. It consists of three or sometimes four reading passages of increasing difficulty, and there is a total of 40 questions to answer. In this you will not get any extra time to transfer your answers on the answer sheet. The Academic and General Training Reading Tests are graded to the same level.
The three texts are graded from easiest to most difficult. Each text will have 12 to 14 Items

Task Type

Multiple Choice

Identifying Information (T/F/NG)

Identifying the writer's views/claims (Y/N/NG)

Matching Information

Matching Headings

Matching Features

Matching Sentence Endings

Sentence Completions

Notes / Summary / Table / Flow – Chart completion

Labelling a Diagram

Short – Answer Questions

Assessment: Each question is worth one mark.
IELTS Academic Reading Tips:

1.Focus on the whole idea of each paragraph, do not try to match the words in words in the headings to words in the passage.

2.For any questions where you need to write words from the passage, a hyphenated word counts as one word.

3.For the matching features task, questions will not be in the same sequence of passage. The aforementioned people can be seen in many different sections, which you need to carefully scan the entire path. Some people may be distractors in the list, and you may not need to use all the letters.

4.Make sure to note any plurals in the questions. There may be parts of the passage that refer to only one of the things mentioned, so you need to find the paragraph that has more than one.

5.Remember that you are being tested on your ability to understand the information you read in the passage. So you should ignore anything you already know about the topic.

6.Use the title of the summary to help you find the part of the passage you need to read in detail to find your answer.

IELTS GENERAL TRAINING (GT) READING

IELTS General training (GT) reading test is of one hour period. There is no extra time given for transferring your answers to a separate answer sheet. This test consists of three different sections and a total of 40 questions.The three texts are graded from easiest to most difficult. Each text will have 12 to 14 Items.

The texts are about more general topics or related to work. There are three sections in general training reading paper, The difficulty level increases with each section. The sections are organized as follows:

       Section 1 contains two or three short texts to read or several shorter once like advertisements.

       Section 2 contains two texts to read, related to the workplace like information for Staff.

       Section 3 contains one long discursive text to read.

Section one has 14 items, sections two and three each have 13 Items.

Task Type

Multiple Choice

Identifying Information (T/F/NG)

Identifying the writer's views/claims (Y/N/NG)

Matching Information

Matching Headings

Matching Features

Matching Sentence Endings

Sentence Completions

Notes / Summary / Table / Flow – Chart completion

Labelling a Diagram

Short – Answer Questions

Multiple Matching

IELTS General Reading Tips:

1.If you are asked to choose one word only from the passage, make sure you do not add extra information such as adjectives or adverbs. If you write more than one word, your answer will be marked as wrong.

2.Remember that you are being tested on your ability to understand the information you read in the passage so you should ignore anything you already know about the topic.

3.Quickly read the whole passage to get the general idea before you begin answering questions. This will help to give you an overall understanding of the passage and will help you to locate relevant parts of the text more quickly.

4.Try to spend no more than 15 to 20 minutes on Section 1, so that you have enough time for the more difficult and questions in Section 2 and 3. Aim to spend less than 20 minutes on each section so you have time to check your answers at the end.

5.When answering short – answer questions you do not need to write full sentences or join words together.

IELTS WRITING

The Duration of IELTS Academic Writing test is one hour. In this test there are two separate writing tasks. You must answer both tasks.

Writing task 1: 

Duration: 20 Minutes 

Word Limit: 150 words 

In this task you need to accurately describe and summarize visual information. The information may be presented in a diagram, map, graph or table.

Before you write 

– Read the task and make a summary of the key points and overall trends/stages.
Why?
Because if you misinterpret the data, you will lose a lot of marks for content.

As you write

– Introduce the information, in a sentence or two, using your own words.
Why?
Because if you copy the question, the examiner will not count these words.

– Summarize the key points and use data to illustrate these.
Why?
Because you will lose marks if you miss key points or fail to illustrate them.

– Include an overview of the information – either in your introduction or conclusion.
Why?
Because you will lose marks if your answer does not contain an overview.

How you write

– Try to show that you can use your own words (wherever possible) and a range of grammatical structures.
Why?
Because you will get more marks for vocabulary and grammar if you can do this.

– Divide your answer into paragraphs and use linkers to connect your ideas.
Why?
Because you will get more marks if you can organise your answer well and use a range of linking and reference words.

When you have finished 

– Count your words to make sure you have written enough.
Why?
Because short answers lose marks. (There are no extra marks for long answers.)

– Check your grammar, spelling and punctuation.
Why?
Because mistakes in these areas can reduce your marks.

Writing task 2: 

Duration: 40 Minutes 

Word Limit: 250 words 

In this task you need to write a discursive essay. You will be given an opinion, problem or issue that you need to respond to. You can be asked to compare and contrast different ideas, provide solutions, challenge an idea or evaluate a problem.

HOW ARE YOU GRADED? 

You will be graded on: 

Task achievement (25%)
Did you answer the question?  Did you select the main features successfully?  Did you write at least 150 words?

Coherence and cohesion (25%)
Is your essay well organized?  Did you write a separate paragraph for each idea?  Did you use linking words?

Lexical resource (25%)
Did you use a range of vocabulary?  Did you use correct spelling and appropriate word choice?

Grammatical range and accuracy (25%)
Did you write both simple and complex sentences?  Did you use the correct verb tense?  Did you use correct punctuation?

IELTS Academic Writing Tips:

1.Each time you come across any form of graph, chart or table, study it carefully and practice picking out the major changes that the figure shows. Imagine that you are explaining to someone else what you have noticed from the graph.

2.Get an old map of your own town centre and write about some of the changes that have happened.

3.Make sure that you leave time at the end to check your writing. You need to make sure that your facts and your language are both accurate.

4.Remember that to achieve a high score for writing task 1, you need to select and report on the main features and make comparisons where relevant.

5.Try to get the estimate that, how much space 150 of your words take on a page. This can save you from counting the word repeatedly. Make sure your handwriting is neat and legible.</span.

6.Remember, you need to identify the most important information in only one or two minutes. To help plan your answer, write the different verbs you will use to describe each stage on the diagram itself. This will make sure you don’t miss out any important steps in your description.

7.Remember, your answer for writing Task 1 will be marked against specific criteria. One of these is Lexical Resource. To get a good score, you need to use a wide range of vocabulary and use vocabulary accurately.

8.Try drawing your own diagram of an everyday machine in your home. Divide the process up into different stages and describe it.

9.You will be assessed on the type of information you write about, as well as the language that you use. If you give information that is incorrect or inaccurate, then you will receive a lower score.

10.Your answer must accurately describe the information presented in the visual. Don’t draw conclusions that are not supported by the information you are given.

IELTS GT-GENERAL TRAINING WRITING

The Duration of IELTS GT-General Training Writing test is one hour. This test consists of two separate writing tasks. You must answer both tasks.

Writing task 1:

Duration: 20 Minutes

Word Limit: 150 words

In this task you need to write a letter in response to a given situation

Writing task 2:

Duration: 40 Minutes

Word Limit: 250 words

In this task you need to write a discursive essay. You will be given an opinion, problem or issue that you need to discuss. You can be asked to compare and contrast different ideas, provide solutions, challenge an idea or evaluate a problem.

Assessment: You will be assessed on the following criteria:

– Task Response

– Coherence and cohesion

– Lexical Resource

– Grammatical Range and accuracy

N.B. Writing Task 2 is worth twice as many marks as Writing Task 1.

IELTS GT Writing Tips:


1. You need to manage your time well, In the GT Writing test. You won’t be allowed to take your mobile phone into the exam room, so take a reliable watch into the exam with you.
2. Just like Writing Task 1 your writing Task 2 answer will be assessed based on the lexical resources or vocabulary you use. This means that you need to avoid repeating words from the question and use as wide a variety of words and phrases to discuss the topic as you can.
3. Leave at least three minutes at the end to check your writing. Check your spelling, punctuation and grammar.
4. The examiner will assess the coherence and cohesion of your answer. They will judge how your ideas are organized and how you link information. Planning before you write is the best way to make sure your ideas are organized in a logical way.
5. The examiner will assess the grammatical Accuracy of your answer. They will judge how accurate your sentence structures are, and also whether you have shown a range of structures and not limited yourself to basic ones. Make sure you vary your sentences in the exam.
6. The score you get for Writing Task 2 is two thirds of your total writing score, so it is very important that you spend a full full 40 minutes on this part of the IELTS writing paper. You are given more time than for Writing Task 1 because you need to write 250 words, and also Because you have to use your own ideas. Spend at least four or five minutes planning your Ideas before you start writing.
7. Writing an essay like this is a formal situation and so your language must be formal or neutral as well. Never use notes or bullet points. You will lose marks if you use abbreviations or language that is too casual.
8. You will lose marks if you copy words from the question. Make sure to prepare the Ideas.
9. Your answer will also be marked on coherence. You need to make sure your Ideas are organized into separate paragraphs.

WORD COUNTING IN IELTS

Many students who are to appear for the IELTS exam seem confused about the word counting in IELTS. It can be because of the wrong information provided on the internet.

Also, there are certain myths revolving around this matter like you can’t write more than 250 words in IELTS writing task 2 or in IELTS writing task 1 you need to write more than 200 words to achieve a high band score.

To provide you some clarity, below-mentioned are the word count rules in IELTS.

1. Big or small, every word counts. All the small words such as articles (a, an, the) and prepositions (eg: on, in, at) are also counted.

2. All the hyphenated words such as state-of-the-art, self-improvement, fine-tune are considered as 1 word.

3. Dates, time and number are also considered as a word. For example- the sentence, “There were 5000 people present in the auditorium at 6:30 pm on 25.12.2019.” has 12 words, where ‘5000’, ‘6:30 pm’ and ’25.12.2019’ are considered as three different words too.

4. The symbols written along with numbers are not counted. For example- the % sign in 99.9% is not counted whereas 99.9 is counted as a word.

5. Compound nouns (the nouns that are joined together to make a single word) are counted as one word only. For example- the words skyscraper, grandmother, grasshopper are counted as one word.

6. There are also various compound words that are separated with a hyphen like a mother-in-law, this is also counted as one word. On the other hand compound nouns that are written separately like training room, fire drill, swimming pool are counted as separate words.

For example- the sentence, “ The bookkeeper stacked the books neatly in the university library.” has 10 words.

7. The dates that are written in the way ‘14th November’ is counted as one number and one word and not as a single word.

8. All the words, even the ones written in brackets are counted. Also, some people get confused that if words such as ‘the’ are used several times in a sentence, will all of them be counted? Yes, regardless of how many times a word is repeated in a sentence, it is counted.

9. Last but not least, contractions such as I’m, it’s, we’d, we’ll are counted as one word. Whereas, I am, it is, we would, we will are counted as two separate words. It is advisable to not use too many contractions in IELTS writing.

Talking about the word limit, it is recommended that you write 150-180 words for Task 1 and 250-280 words for Task 2.

IELTS SPEAKING

This test consists of an interview with a trained examiner. The interview is recorded. The test has three different parts and the examiner will use a script. This helps to make sure that the speaking tests all follow the same pattern.

Part 1:

Time: 4 to 5 minutes

Question Type: Questions on a familiar topics like Hobbies, likes and dislikes etc.

Part 2:

Time: 3 to 4 minutes

Question Type: you will be given a booklet with a topic (i.e. Describe a good friend) and some suggestions. You need to talk about the topic for 1 to 2 minutes. You have about one minute to write notes before you begin.

Part 3:

Time: 4 to 5 minutes

Question Type: the examiner will ask you more detailed and more abstract questions about the topic in part 2; like how important is friendship?

Assessment: You will be assessed on the following criteria:

          Fluency and Coherence

– How easy is it for you to keep speaking?

– Do you pause or hesitate often when speaking?

– Do your ideas relate to the question?

– Can you link your ideas together?

– Can you explain what you mean, even if you forget the right word?

          Lexical Resource

– How wide is your vocabulary?

– How accurately do you use words?

– Do you use collocations accurately?

– Do you use some less common words?

          Grammatical range and accuracy

– Do you use a range of structures?

– Do you get the word order right?

– Do you use the right tense?

– How often do you make mistakes?

– Do your mistakes make it difficult to understand what you mean?

          Pronunciation

– Do you speak clearly.

– How easy are you to understand?

– Do you use stress and intonation accurately?

– Do you use connected speech / link your words together?

IELTS Speaking Tips:

1. As you talk, you should only look at your notes briefly. Don’t read Directly from your Notes. Notice how each of the candidates in the videos keeps eye contact with the examiner.
2. Don’t be afraid to disagree with the opinions the examiner expresses. These are not necessarily what the examiner thinks or believes. It is simply a chance for you to showcase your language and Ideas.
3. For Part 3, it is important to have your own opinion to read newspapers and watch the news to kee up with current issues.
4. If you run out of ideas after one minute, give yourself a fresh start by looking at the task in the booklet again.
5. It’s important to listen carefully to the examiner’s questions so that you can answer in the correct tense. When answering yes / no questions, it is important to answer the questions and then give reasons for your answer. Don’t simply answer Yes or No.
6. Make good Eye contact with the examiner from the moment you enter the room, and answer in a polite and friendly way. Your body language plays an important role in communication.
7. Listen carefully to the examiner’s questions to make sure that you answer them fully and appropriately.
8. Make sure you arrive early for your test, so that you are not hurrying and have time to relax. If possible, visit the test centre before the day of your test, so that you are familiar with where you need to go.

The Speaking Test should be a natural conversation. If you try to give a prepared speech, the examiner will interrupt you and ask you a different question.

SPEAKING

EXPECTED CUE CARDS 2020

1. Talk about a female leader.
2. Describe a photograph or picture in your home.
3. Talk about a product or application based on Artificial Intelligence.
4. Talk about a small business you would like to open.
5. Describe a place where you want to read and write, apart from your home.
6. Talk about a person you think has interesting ideas and opinion.
7. Describe an occasion when you get up early.
8. Talk about a Time when was the first time you admired the Sky.
9. Describe a Newly built facility (such as a cinema or garden) that improves quality in your city.
10. Talk about a celebration organized after an achievement.
11. Describe a Gift which you spent a long time to Choose/Make.
12. Talk about a film you would like to discuss which your Friends.
13. Describe a time when you first met someone.
14. Talk about an advertisement that you remember.
15. Describe your Favorite Food.
16. Talk about your hometown.
17. Describe some good advice about choosing a job or subject.
18. Talk about a place where you feel crowded.
19. A time when you moved to a new house or new school.
20. Talk about a positive change in your life.
21. Describe an organization or company where you live and it employs a lot of people.
22. Talk about an appointment that was put ahead of schedule.
23. Describe a bicycle tour.
24. Talk about an occasion waiting for someone.
25. Describe a kind of foreign food you tried.
26. Talk about a kind of weather that you like.
27. Describe a part of your city that is changing.
28. Talk about a Popular Teacher that you know.
29. Describe a Advise you received.
30. Talk about a time when you borrowing something.
31. Describe a new public building you want to visit.
32. Talk about an important conversation.
33. Describe a day you remember well.
34. Talk about a Day that would make you happy.
35. Describe a time when you feel bored.
36. Talk about a time when you getting up early.
37. Describe a time when you gave the gift to someone.
38. Talk about your favorite Game.
39. Describe a leisure activity you like doing.
40. Talk about an experience when you losing something.
41. Describe a time when you lying to your friend.
42. Talk about when you meeting someone for the first time.
43. Describe a person who travels by plane a lot.
44. Talk about a person who is good at his/her job.
45. Describe a place full of colors.
46. Describe a school which you went to.
47. Talk about a night when you could not sleep/stay awake.
48. Describe your Favorite Toy in your childhood.
49. Describe a good law in your country.
50. Talk about your favorite place for shopping.
51. Talk about a place where you would like to study.
52. Talk about a thing you complained about something.
53. Talk about a beautiful city.
54. Talk about a skill that takes a long time to learn.
55. Describe something that is made with your hand for your friend.
56. Talk about the happiest situation in your life.
57. Describe a time when you searched for information from the internet.
58. Describe a time when you someone gave you something you really wanted.
59. Talk about a recent activity that made you happy.
60. Describe something that helps you in concentration.
61. Describe a time when you had to change your plan.
62. Describe a memorable story told by someone.
63. Describe something you did to help others.
64. Talk about an exciting book you read.
65. Talk about a situation where you had to be polite.
66. Describe a time when you were cheated.
67. Talk about an old person you met.
68. Describe a country in which you would like to work for a short time.
69. Describe a recent news you heard recently.
70. Talk about a public facility that improves local life quality.
71. Describe a time when you found something someone lost.
72. Describe a time when you got up extremely early.
73. Talk about a time when you gave advice to someone.
74. Talk about a foreign language you want to learn.
75. Talk about a TV program that made you laugh a lot.

EXPECTED CUE CARDS FOR SEPTEMBER To DECEMBER 2019

1. Describe a good law in your country.
2. Talk about your favorite place for shopping.
3. Talk about a place where you would like to study.
4. Talk about a thing you complained about something.
5. Talk about a beautiful city.
6. Talk about a skill that takes a long time to learn.
7. Describe something that is made with your hand for your friend.
8. Talk about the happiest situation in your life.
9. Describe a time when you searched for information from the internet.
10. Describe a time when you someone gave you something you really wanted.
11. Talk about a recent activity that made you happy.
12. Describe something that helps you in concentration.
13. Describe a time when you had to change your plan.
14. Describe a memorable story told by someone.
15. Describe something you did to help others.
16. Talk about an exciting book you read.
17. Talk about a situation where you had to be polite.
18. Describe a time when you were cheated.
19. Talk about an old person you met.
20. Describe a country in which you would like to work for a short time.
21. Describe a recent news you heard recently.
22. Talk about a public facility that improves local life quality.
23. Describe a time when you found something someone lost.
24. Describe a time when you got up extremely early.
25. Talk about a time when you gave advice to someone.
26. Talk about a foreign language you want to learn.
27. Talk about a TV program that made you laugh a lot.
28. An interesting part of your country or A place that is interesting in your country.

EXPECTED WRITING TASK 2 QUESTIONS

1. Children nowadays spend a great deal of time watching television. However, television cannot replace the book as a learning tool, which is why children are less well‐educated today. To what extent do you agree with this statement?
2. Some people think that foreign visitors should be charged more than locals when they visit cultural and tourist attractions in a country. To what extent do you agree with this view?
3. Universities should allocate the same amount of money to students’ sports activities as they allocate to their libraries. Do you agree?
4. Tourism is becoming increasingly important as a source of revenue to many countries, but its disadvantages should not be overlooked. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
5. Throughout history, people have dreamed of living in a perfect society, but they have not agreed on what an ideal society would be like. What do you think is the most important element of a perfect society in the modern world? How can people work towards achieving an ideal society?
6. More and more companies are allowing employees to work at home. Do you think this is a positive or negative development?
7. Many people say that the only way to guarantee a good job is to complete a course of university education. Others claim that it is better to start work after school and gain experience in the world of work. Discuss
8. Some people think that spending a lot on holding wedding parties, birthday parties and other celebrations is just a waste of money. Others, however, think that these are necessary for individuals and the society. Discuss.
9. Many people say that movies and TV programs affect us negatively while others say that they are two influential and useful media for us. How do movies and TV affect us?
10. Nowadays we are producing more and more rubbish. Why do you think this is happening? What can governments do to help reduce the amount of rubbish produced?
11. Many young people are leaving their homes in rural areas to study or work in the cities. What are the reasons? Do the advantages of this development outweigh its disadvantages?
12. Nowadays, international tourism is the biggest industry in the world. Unfortunately, international tourism creates tension rather than understanding between people from different cultures. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?
13. Demand for food is increasing worldwide. What is the cause of this? What measures can the international community take to meet this demand?
14. Experts say older people were happier and healthier in the past because they did more exercise and spent more time with family and friends, whereas now many suffer loneliness and health problems. What are the causes of this and what are some solutions?
15. People spend a lot of money on various things as they earn more money nowadays than before. Is it a positive or negative development?
16. Many famous sports players advertise sports products. Do the advantages of this outweigh the disadvantages?
17. These days many families move to other countries for work. Some people believe that the children in these families benefit from this move. However, others believe that it makes life more difficult for the children. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
18. Many people think that more money will make them happier. How important is money for happiness?
19. Some people think parents should supervise their children’s activities closely, while others believe children should have more freedom. Discuss
20. Today, many people do not realize how important the natural world is. Why is this How can people learn more about the importance of the natural world?
21. In many countries, weddings are getting bigger and more expensive than the past. Is this a positive or negative development?
22. Some believe that it is the responsibility of people to take care of the environment. Others say it is the government that should take care of the environment. Discuss
23. These days, mobile phones and the internet are very important to the ways in which people relate to one another socially. Do the advantages of this development outweigh the disadvantages?
24. Scientists believe that in order to protect the environment, people must use less energy in their daily lives. However, most people have not changed the way they live. Why do you think many people have not taken individual action? What could be done to encourage them to take action?
25. Films and computer games which contain violence are very popular. Some people believe they have a negative effect on society and so should be banned. Other people, however, say they are just harmless and help people to relax. Discuss both these points of view and give your own opinion.
26. Many doctors say that people in today’s world do not do enough physical exercise. What do you think are the causes of this? What solutions are there to this problem?
27. More and more parents are allowing their children to play on computers and tablets as they think that children should learn technology skills. Do the advantages of this development outweigh the disadvantages?
28. Many people join distance‐learning programs (study material, post, TV, Internet) and study at home, but some people think that it cannot bring the same benefit as attending colleges or universities does. Do you agree or disagree?
29. Psychological illnesses may not be as obvious as physical disabilities or illnesses, nevertheless they are just as disabling in their own way. Society, however, is more accepting of those with physical than psychological illnesses or disabilities. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
30. Should education and healthcare be free of charge and funded by the government, or should it be the responsibility of the people to pay for these services? Write at least 250 words.
31. Governments spend a lot of money on public celebrations such as national holidays and public festivals. Some people say that the government spends too much on this and that they should use this money on other useful things. Do you agree or disagree?
32. In some schools and universities, girls tend to choose arts subjects (e.g. literature), and boys tend to choose science subjects (e.g. physics). Why do you think this is so? Should this tendency be changed? Do you agree or disagree?
33. Due to so many young people dropping out from schools, the rate of unemployment is increasing and it affects our society in different ways. In your opinion, how can this situation be improved? Write at least 250 words.
34. Children are facing more pressures nowadays from academic, social and commercial perspectives. What are the causes of these pressures and what measures should be taken to reduce this? Write at least 250 words.
35. Some people believe that allowing children to make their own choices on everyday matters (such as food, clothes and entertainment) is likely to result in a society of individuals who only think about their own wishes. Other people believe that it is important for children to make decisions about matters that affect them. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
36. In a number of countries, some people think it is necessary to spend large sums of money on constructing new railway lines for very fast trains between cities. Others believe the money should be spent on improving existing public transport. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. Write at least 250 words.
37. More and more people are migrating to cities in search of a better life, but city life can be extremely difficult. Explain some of the difficulties of living in a city. How can governments make urban life better for everyone?
38. Planting trees is very important .some people says that trees should be planted in the vacant areas of cities and town, while others says that housing facilities should be build instead. Do you agree or disagree?
39. In many countries women no longer feel the need to get married. Some people believe that this is because women are able to earn on their own income and therefore do not require the financial security marriage can bring. To what extent do you agree?
40. Nowadays celebrities are more famous for their glamour than for their glamour and wealth than for their achievements and this sets a bad example to the young people. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

IELTS EXAM TIPS

Get familiarized with the format and pattern of IELTS right before taking up the test. Skills required for passing the IELTS test takes time to build up. You can’t cram things and think of passing out the test easily. Instead of wasting time and energy in useless cramming activities, you need to follow some IELTS Exam tips like manage your time and use it effectively. Sit to study when you feel fresh according to a planning timetable. Set goals and ensure you have adequate breaks in between.

All four modules: Reading, Writing, Listening and Speaking, carry equal importance. You have to polish each skill carefully, and it is suggested to spend more time on the weakest IELTS module. Be aware of the exam pattern, order of each section, its length and question types. There are many easily available resources to help you practice all these skills well.

Preparing with a study partner or group is obviously an excellent idea. This may let you aware of issues that you might not even think of and overlooked. Seek the help of your family members or English teacher.

You cannot start with ABCD of English. You have to review your skill and know the techniques of passing the IELTS Exam. It is important to follow a healthy lifestyle including exercise, rest, east and sleep well for properly concentrating on your preparations.

Get familiar with the test location in advance. If you are totally new to the location, try to visit the place two to three weeks before the test day.

How to clear IELTS in the first attempt?

With a profusion of better opportunities and a chance at having a pronounced career, every year thousands of Indians decide to study abroad.

Are you one of them? Does the university you want to go to require IELTS? Are you not sure about how to clear IELTS in the first attempt? Don’t worry because you have landed at the right place and these IELTS Exam Tips will definitely help you.

Cracking an IELTS exam requires massive efforts and smart preparation; anyone who thinks otherwise might be living in a delusion. A lot of people appear for the exam but only a few come forward in flying colors because of their extensive hard work and a few tips and tricks.

So, here are a few substantially helpful tips and tricks to help you clear IELTS in the first attempt;

– Stay dedicated, focused and determined when studying for the exam. You can also join an IELTS coaching center to avail assistance in your preparation.

– Focus individually on all the parts of the exam i.e. Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking. Each part requires equal attention.

– The question paper also includes multiple-choice questions. The applicants make the mistake of mainly focusing on subjective questions and taking MCQs’ for granted.

– It is very important to appear for all the questions in the question paper. Manage your time properly and do not skip any questions due to improper time management.

– Make sure your writing speed is fast enough while appearing for the IELTS writing test because you have limited time. You do not want to perform poorly due to your slow writing speed.

Just remember that only practice can make you perfect!

– For the IELTS speaking test, make sure you are fluent in speaking English and have a proper accent.

Your accent should not sound fake or forced.

There are also a few basic requirements to crack the IELTS Exam.

1. Your marks in +2, under-graduation or post-graduation should be suitable according to exam guidelines.
2. You are required to enroll in a professional university or company.
3. The age consideration for IELTS exam is above 16 years.
4. Make sure you have a sound knowledge of English and can speak it fluently. The test is devised to check your English language proficiency.
5. There is no particular amount of time that can make sure you are ready to take the test. But, if you are a good English speaker, a month or two of serious practice can help you crack the exam.
6. The IELTS exam is eligible for every race, religion, gender, and nationality.

RESULTS AND IELTS SCORES

Receive your IELTS results quickly

You won’t have to wait long to receive your IELTS test results. You can view your results Online  13 days after your test.

If you have taken IELTS for UK Visas and Immigration (on paper),  you can view your results  – 13 days after your test.

IELTS for Life Skills results are available within 7 days after the test. 

If you have taken a computer-delivered test, your results will be available between 5-7 days after your test. 

IELTS test results remain online for 28 days but shouldn’t be used as an official confirmation of your performance. Some centres also provide an SMS preview alert.

Your IELTS Test Report Form

A paper copy of your IELTS test score – known as an IELTS Test Report Form (TRF) – will be available 13 days after your test date. Your TRF may be collected in person at the test centre or delivered by post; please check with your test centre what option is available locally.

Please note: that your IELTS test results cannot be disclosed via email or over the phone.

Understanding your IELTS score

You will be awarded an IELTS band score from 0-9 for each test section, which reflects your proficiency in English.

Your IELTS Test Report Form will show a score for each of the four skills (Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking) and an overall band score. You can score whole band scores (for example 5.0, 6.0, 7.0) or half band scores (e.g. 5.5, 6.5, 7.5) in every section of the test.


Enquiry on results

If you would like to make an enquiry about your test results, you need to apply at the centre where you booked your test within six weeks of your test date. You can choose which sections of the test you want to have re-marked.

There is a charge for an enquiry on IELTS test results, however this charge will be refunded if your score increases for any section of the test. 

Your result will normally be available in 2-21 days, this depends on several factors including the number of sections requested for re-mark.

If you have not received a response after 28 days, please contact your test centre.


Sending your Test Report Form directly to the institutions you’re applying to

Institutions need original copies of your IELTS Test Report Form. Photocopies will not be accepted.

Some universities or institutions have subscribed to electronic download of scores, so please make sure you check with your local test centre before sending them your results. 

WHAT IS COMPUTER-DELIVERED IELTS?

It’s exactly the same test content and structure, but you’ll take it sitting in a modern computer lab using the latest technology and with technical staff on hand to help. Many test takers have told us they would like to try it, so computer-delivered IELTS is now being introduced in selected test centres around the world.

Now, with computer-delivered testing, you will take exactly the same IELTS test, Academic or General Training, but you can choose to type your answers, or write them on paper – whichever suits you best.

Computer-delivered IELTS is available for Academic and General Training.

Why you might choose a computer-delivered test

You prefer typing to writing

Whether you are more comfortable typing than writing, or you think your handwriting is hard to read, using a computer could be the answer. Plus you can go back and edit your answers easily during the test – as you can with the paper-based option.

You can still plan your answers on paper

70% of test takers we spoke to said they liked being able to plan the Writing section of their test on paper, and you can still do this with computer-delivered testing.

Same standards, more venues

It’s the same IELTS test trusted for its fairness and integrity by more than 10,000 organisations all over the world, and now it’s available in more of the smaller British Council test locations.

Same content, greater flexibility

It covers the same content, and now you have more dates to choose from and you can pick the day of the week that fits best with your schedule.

Same Speaking test, more convenience.

The Speaking test is still face-to-face in a private room with a trained and qualified Examiner, as it is the most effective way of assessing speaking skills, and now you can select online the day on which you take it.

Same results format, faster results.

Your results are still delivered in the same easy-to-understand Test Report Form, and now you can view them online in 5-7 days and have your Test Report Form sent to you by post.

IELTS FOR UKVI

What is IELTS for UKVI?

Are you looking forward to work or study in the UK? In order to fulfill that purpose, you will have to apply for a UK Visa and exhibit that you have met the obligatory level of English by taking a UK Home Office approved Secure English Language Test (SELT), such as IELTS for UKVI (Academic and General Training) or IELTS Life Skills.

‘IELTS for UKVI’ is a UK government-approved Secure English Language Test (SELT). This shows that IELTS can be utilized to establish your English language abilities in support of a UK Visa and Immigration (UKVI) application.

What is the difference between IELTS and UKVI IELTS?

There is no difference between the test format of IELTS and IELTS for UKVI. The test stands the same in terms of content, format, level of difficulty and scoring for both IELTS (Academic and General Training) and IELTS for UKVI (Academic and General training).

The only difference betwe en the two is that the Test Report Forms, which enclose your results, will be somewhat dissimilar to show that you have taken the test at a certified IELTS UKVI location approved by the UK Home Office. The sole purpose of IELTS UKVI is to meet a set of administrative requirements specified by the UK Home office.

IELTS for UKVI (Academic and General Training) tests and IELTS Life Skills are taken at a UKVI approved test center. British Council has UKVI approved venues around the world.

Which test format to take?

If you are planning to study in the UK, make sure you confirm with your college, university or institution about the kind of test format you should appear for. You need to consult with your respective authorities before you book the test.

If you are applying for a Tier 4 Student Visa at a higher education institution to enter directly into a graduate or postgraduate program at a university that is a Tier 4 Sponsor, you must be eligible on the basis of the English language level set by the institution. All British universities and colleges acknowledge IELTS Academic results This means you may not need to take an IELTS for UKVI (Academic) test but can present the IELTS Academic result.

Types of IELTS UKVI tests;

IELTS Academic: If you are looking forward to studying at the undergraduate or postgraduate level or aiming for professional registration in the UK, IELTS for UKVI (Academic) is the right choice for you.

IELTS general training: IELTS for UKVI(General Training) is apt for all those candidates who wish to migrate, train or study at a lower degree level in the UK.

IELTS Life Skills A1:This test is for all those applicants who are required to prove their English Speaking and Listening skills as part of their application to UK Visas and Immigration for ‘family of a settled person’ visas.

IELTS Life Skills A2:This test is for those who have to demonstrate their English Speaking and Listening skills as part of their application to UK Visas and Immigration for an extension to family, Spouse or Partner visa.
(This test is only offered in the UK)

IELTS Life Skills B1: This test is for those who need to verify their English Speaking and Listening credentials as part of their request to UK Visas and Immigration for indefinite leave to remain or citizenship.

Advantages of IELTS for UKVI.

– Anyone who is looking for a PR, permanent residence can easily obtain the citizenship of the UK, if he has given an IELTS for UKVI.

– A work visa is another thing to consider, which one can get very easily if he takes the examination.

– While entrance to different colleges and universities, it is required for the candidate to appear for the IELTS examination.

Score requirement at undergraduate and postgraduate level

Students who belong to a country where English is not the first language or the language of inclination (a country of non-native English speakers) must obtain a bare minimum English Language competency level.

Some programs entail a higher level of English Language proficiency than the minimum requirement indicated, you can view further particulars on definite program necessities.

Although there is no passing and failing in an IELTS exam, yet you will be graded in terms of band scores ranging from 1-9, for all the four parts of the test i.e. Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking. If you score a low band score it indicates that you are a non-native speaker, whereas if you score better it shows your expertise in the language. Thus, making it easier for you to get admission in the recognized colleges, universities or institutes of the UK.

Undergraduate Level – 5.5 IELTS

Postgraduate Level – 6.5 IELTS

UKVI IELTS Exam is a tough nut to crack, for which you need proper assistance and training. You can obtain such guidance from the extremely skilled teachers available at North India’s most trusted institution in the field of student Visa, IELTS, and PTE; Western Overseas.