The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is a widely recognized test designed to assess the language proficiency of non-native English speakers. It is used for academic, professional, and immigration purposes and is divided into four sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. Each section is meticulously crafted to evaluate different aspects of English language skills. Among these, the Speaking test is particularly significant as it measures the test-taker’s ability to communicate effectively in spoken English. This article provides an overview of the IELTS test, a detailed breakdown of the Speaking test, the criteria used for marking, and strategies for preparing for each part of the Speaking test.

Overview of the IELTS Test

The IELTS test is structured into four parts:

1. Listening: This section lasts for about 30 minutes and includes four recorded monologues and conversations. Test-takers answer questions based on these recordings.
2. Reading: Spanning 60 minutes, this section consists of three long reading passages with tasks. The content is different for the Academic and General Training versions of the test.
3. Writing: This 60-minute section requires test-takers to complete two writing tasks. The tasks differ between the Academic and General Training versions but generally involve describing visual information and writing essays.
4. Speaking: The Speaking test lasts for about 11-14 minutes and is conducted as a face-to-face interview with a certified examiner. It is divided into three parts.

Breakdown of the IELTS Speaking Test

The Speaking test comprises three parts, each designed to assess different aspects of speaking ability:

1. Part 1: Introduction and Interview (4-5 minutes): In this section, the examiner introduces themselves and asks the test-taker to introduce themselves and confirm their identity. The examiner then asks general questions on familiar topics such as home, family, work, studies, and interests.
2. Part 2: Long Turn (3-4 minutes): The test-taker is given a task card with a topic and has one minute to prepare a response. They must then speak for 1-2 minutes on the topic. The examiner may ask one or two follow-up questions after the test-taker finishes speaking.
3. Part 3: Discussion (4-5 minutes): The examiner and the test-taker engage in a discussion related to the topic from Part 2. This part assesses the test-taker’s ability to express and justify opinions, analyze, discuss issues, and speculate about future outcomes.

Criteria for Marking

Examiners use four key criteria to mark the Speaking test:

1. Fluency and Coherence: This criterion assesses the ability to speak smoothly without frequent pauses or hesitations and to organize ideas logically.
2. Lexical Resource: This evaluates the range and accuracy of vocabulary used. Test-takers are expected to use a wide range of words and phrases appropriately.
3. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: This criterion examines the range of grammatical structures used and the accuracy with which they are used. This includes correct use of verb tenses, sentence structures, and overall grammatical correctness.
4. Pronunciation: This assesses the ability to pronounce words clearly and use intonation and stress patterns accurately.

Strategies for Preparing for the IELTS Speaking Test

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

Strategies:

1. Practice Common Topics: Familiarize yourself with common topics such as hobbies, work, studies, family, and daily routines. Practice speaking about these topics fluently.
2. Extend Your Answers: Avoid giving one-word or very short answers. Try to extend your responses by adding details or examples. For instance, instead of saying “Yes, I like reading,” you could say, “Yes, I enjoy reading a lot, especially mystery novels because they keep me engaged and curious.”
3. Use a Variety of Sentence Structures: Incorporate different types of sentences, such as simple, compound, and complex sentences, to demonstrate grammatical range.

Improving Grammar and Vocabulary:

• Grammar Practice: Focus on practicing different verb tenses and sentence structures. Use resources like grammar books or online exercises to enhance your grammatical accuracy.
• Vocabulary Building: Create a list of common topics and associated vocabulary. Use flashcards, vocabulary apps, or word lists to expand your vocabulary.

Part 2: Long Turn

Strategies:

1. Practice with Cue Cards: Use sample cue cards to practice speaking for 1-2 minutes on various topics. Record yourself and listen for areas of improvement.
2. Structure Your Response: Organize your response into a clear structure with an introduction, main points, and a conclusion. This helps in maintaining coherence.
3. Use Fillers and Connectors: Learn and practice using fillers (e.g., “Well,” “Let me see,” “You know”) and connectors (e.g., “Firstly,” “Moreover,” “In addition”) to help maintain fluency and coherence.

Improving Grammar and Vocabulary:

• Practice Tenses: Pay special attention to using the correct tenses as you describe past events, present situations, and future plans.
• Thematic Vocabulary: Expand your vocabulary around various themes like travel, education, technology, etc. This helps in speaking confidently on different topics.

Part 3: Discussion

Strategies:

1. Engage in Discussions: Practice discussing various topics with friends, family, or language partners. This helps in developing the ability to express and justify opinions.
2. Use Examples and Explanations: Support your opinions with examples, reasons, and explanations. This adds depth to your responses.
3. Anticipate Questions: Think about potential follow-up questions related to common topics. Prepare and practice answers to these questions.

Improving Grammar and Vocabulary:

• Complex Sentences: Practice forming and using complex sentences to express nuanced ideas. This can involve using relative clauses, conditionals, and other advanced structures.
• Topic-Specific Vocabulary: Focus on expanding your vocabulary for discussing abstract and complex topics, such as environmental issues, education policies, or technological advancements.

General Tips for the IELTS Speaking Test

1. Listen Carefully: Ensure you understand the questions before responding. If needed, ask the examiner to repeat or clarify the question.
2. Stay Calm and Confident: Nervousness can affect your performance. Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing before the test to stay calm.
3. Practice Regularly: Regular practice is key to improving your speaking skills. Engage in English conversations as often as possible.
4. Seek Feedback: Practice with someone who can provide constructive feedback, such as a teacher, tutor, or language exchange partner.
5. Record Yourself: Recording your responses can help you identify areas for improvement in fluency, grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation.

Mastering the IELTS Speaking test requires a combination of strategic preparation, consistent practice, and a focus on key linguistic skills. By understanding the test structure, criteria, and effective preparation strategies, you can enhance your ability to communicate effectively in English and achieve a high score in the Speaking test.

What is also of great importance and very useful is to do both of the following.

1. Read lots of sample answers wherever you find them available and we will be uploading lots of sample answers in the future. In these sample answers pay attention the subject-specific vocabulary, the grammar including the tenses and constructions used as well as the correct collocations. Read them out loud. Read them repeatedly until they are engrained into your mind and you yourself can use them spontaneously.
2. In conjunction with the above, watch lots of videos online where IELT candidates get anything from 7-9. Watch the same video a couple of times. At least once or twice watch one of these videos in stages meaning watch each section (part 1, 2 and 3) and make notes focusing on the vocabulary and grammar being used by the candidate.

If you carry out the two recommendations above you should be in a much stronger position to pass your IELTS speaking exam or get a higher grade then you would have otherwise.

We wish you good luck in your IELTS exam and please check our website for more advice and information.