IELTS; Free Online Mock Reading Test

RxPG Sections of IELTS Reading Test is a free online mock trial. Explanatory patterns and answer five questions in the IELTS passge are provided when you mark your answer is followed by.Test to try to "read more" link below.

In the future, these people grow their own food. Scientists are getting ready for the future by the biosphere. In Arizona, scientists are building. In 1989, eight people will begin living within the biosphere. They will be sealed from the outside world. They grow their own food. A scientist, we will need some sort of system to another planet. It could be a test to see if it will be. The project is called the biosphere. Many different areas will be put in the biosphere. The oceans, tropical, and will mimic a rain forest.They will try to grow all the food they need.The idea has been tried already. Two years at a desk in an office, two small shrimp is a sealed world.

---

1) Many different areas will be put in the biosphere. It will copy the oceans, the tropics, and a ________________.

One answer only.

    A. valley

    B. house

    C. rain forest

---

2) If they can grow all of the food they need, then it could be done on another ______________ that does not have any plants growing on it

One answer only.

    A. planet

    B. backyard

    C. biosphere

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3) People who fly in space have to eat food that they bring from earth. In the future, these people will grow their own _____________.

One answer only.

    A. pets

    B. moss

    C. food

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4) A scientist said that on another planet, we will need some kind of __________________ .

One answer only.

    A. life system

    B. biosphere

    C. light source

---

5) Scientists are getting ready for the _______________ by making a biosphere.

One answer only.

    A. shrimp

    B. plants

    C. future

---

 

This test has been created by RxPG 

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What is the pass mark IELTS?

IELTS is a fixed pass mark.However, as a general rule, scores below Band
5 in any one skill is too low to educational Study, the best way to score above Band 6 are considered adequate. Overall band score of 5 or 6 on the line and can not be acceptable in many institutions.Then you about your level of English should consult a teacher. Remember you test between each effort should allow at least 3 months.
For more information about the trial, all IELTS test centers and handbooks are also available from UCLES (University of Cambridge Local Examinations Syndicate), I see DP Education Australia and the British Council center.

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How is IELTS scored?

Your ability to use English for IELTS provides a profile.9 shows a scale of 1 is rated in each skill. Overall, nine bands and their descriptive statements are as follows:

9 Expert User
Appropriate, accurate and complete understanding of the language fluently, is fully operational command.

8 Very good user
With only occasional unsystematic error and inappropriacies command language is fully operational. Misconceptions can be in unknown condition. Handles complex detailed argumentation well.
 
7 Good User
Operational command of language, though occasionally inaccura cies inappropriacies, and in some cases with misunderstandings. Generally handles complex language well and understands detailed reasoning.

Authorized Line 6
Slip of the tongue, inappropriacies and misunderstanding is still generally effective command. Use familiar with and understand the particular circumstances of the fair COM plex language.

5 simple user
Partial command of language is, in most cases as a whole is faced with meaning, although it is likely many mistakes. Able to handle basic communication in own field should be.

4 Limited User 
Basic eligibility is limited to familiar situations. Understanding and expression is a frequent problem. Is not able to use complex language.

3 very limited user
I was told and just generally feels very familiar situations. Breakdowns in communication occur frequently.

2 Intermittent User 
What is great difficulty understanding spoken and written English.

1 Non User 
Not primarily out of a few isolated words have the ability to use language.

0 tests did not try
No assessable information provided

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FREE IELTS PREPARATION GUIDELINES

What is IELTS? This test is for people who intend to study or work where English is the language of communication. It measures ability to communicate in English across all four language skills – listening, reading, writing and speaking  IELTS is jointly managed by British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia and the University of Cambridge ESOL Examinations (Cambridge ESOL) through more than 350 locations in 120 countries. Who is the 'IELTS Examination Preparation' course for? This course is suitable for students seeking admission to undergraduate and postgraduate university courses, who already have an Upper-Intermediate level or higher of General English. What does the exam involve? Listening -This is a test of listening comprehension in the context of general language proficiency. The test is in four sections. The first two sections are concerned with social needs, while the last two are concerned with situations more closely related to educational or training contexts. Texts include both monologues and dialogues between two or three people, and are heard once only. Reading -The Academic Reading module consists of texts of general interest dealing with issues which are appropriate for, and accessible to, candidates entering postgraduate or undergraduate courses. The module consists of three passages or sections with forty questions. Question types include multiple choice, sentence or summary completion, identifying data for short-answer questions, matching lists or phrases and identifying writers' views/attitudes.A variety of question types are used for the forty items, including multiple choice, short answer questions, notes/summary/flow chart completion, sentence completion, labeling a diagram and matching. Writing - Appropriate responses for the Academic Writing module are short essays or general reports, addressed to tutors or to an educated non-specialist audience. There are two compulsory tasks. Task 1, requires at least 150 words. Task 2, the more heavily weighted, requires at least 250. words. In Task 1, Academic Writing module candidates are asked to look at a diagram, table or data and to present the information in their own words.In Task 2, candidates are presented with a point of view, argument or problem and asked to provide general factual information, outline and/or present a solution, justify an opinion, and evaluate ideas and evidence. Speaking -The Speaking Module takes between 11 and 14 minutes. It consists of an oral interview between the candidate and an examiner. There are three main parts. Each part fulfils a specific function in terms of interaction pattern, task input and candidate output. In Part 1 the candidate answers general questions about themselves, their homes/families, their jobs/studies, their interests, and a range of similar familiar topic areas. This part lasts between four and five minutes. In Part 2 the candidate is given a verbal prompt on a card and is asked to talk on a particular topic. The candidate has one minute to prepare before speaking at length, for between one and two minutes. The examiner then asks one or two rounding-off questions. In Part 3 the examiner and candidate engage in a discussion of more abstract issues and concepts which are thematically linked to the topic prompt in Part 2.The discussion lasts between four and five minutes. Why choose IELTS? IELTS is recognized as an entrance requirement by universities in UK,  Australia, New Zealand, Canada and USA. When can I take the examination? Students can take the IELTS examination in India any month. When are the results published? Results are normally issued within two weeks of a candidate taking the test. IELTS provides a test Report Form giving a profile of ability to use English as assessed by the Test. A score in each of the four modules, and an overall score, are recorded as levels of ability, called 'Bands'. These Band scores are recorded on the candidate's Test Report Form. Each Band corresponds to a generalized descriptive statement of a candidate's English at that level. The profile provided on an IELTS Test Report Form is normally valid for a period of two years. IELTS Tips and Information: Preparing to Take: IELTS tests your ability to use English for academic or training purposes - for example, your ability to write assignments or interpret academic texts. You’ll probably get a better result in the test if you prepare properly. Ways of Preparing: Read the latest version of the IELTS Handbook (we can lend you one of these). The Handbook explains the test format and has examples of questions. Buy some IELTS practice materials - available in the Library. If you haven't got much time, or if you feel you need individual tuition to help you with any particular problems, we can offer 1-to-1 lessons as well as our English for IELTS group course. Take an IELTS pre-test - this will give you an indication of your present IELTS level in the reading and writing modules. The Director of Studies can give you the pre-test. How Do I Apply? You can get an application form from the Library. Please ask the Library staff. The Director of Studies will help you complete the form and will check available examination dates.

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LEARN TO LOVE ENGLISH LANGUAGE: SELF-MOTIVATION FOR IELTS TEST TAKERS

Many students start preparing for IELTS exam with dreams of immigration and higher studies in foreign nations. The students who go for Masters in science and medicine fare better in the exams, as the first language in their degree course is English. This is not so for other students. The students preparing for immigration find it very difficult to get required score in IELTS exam . There are a few reasons for it. The major one is the high expectations of improving English within a short period of one month. The other one is the influence of native language in English grammar and accent.

       These two major issues de motivate a candidate who attempt IELTS exam. During training, they feel learning English is not their cup of tea and they somehow want to pass the exam. These negative thoughts bring their motivational levels further down and register in their subconscious mind that they can’t master English language. They soon crash land and let their dreams to die.

      For those who feel learning English language for IELTS exam is too tough to learn, Let me ask them a question. Is it possible to learn a skill without a passion for it? Have you loved English language?

       Learn first to love English language. Make your mind ready and commit yourself to spend your time in improving language skills. Set your goals beyond IELTS exam . Make an oath to learn English language within a month or two than mere pass IELTS exam . You will get good IELTS score if you know English language well.

        When you are determined to win, you have to give back your energy and time to acquire it. Acquiring a skill is not free. You have to give up your evenings with friends, parties, tv shows and cinemas for it. You have to allocate a definite time and plan for it. Such dedication and self-motivation can make you to master English language within a short period of time. 

     

      So don’t give away when things get tougher and harder to achieve. Take time and learn. Form a good strategy and proceed. Use proven techniques for improving English language. Then only you can become the real master …a master who mastered English language and his own mind.

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THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN IELTS AND TOEFL

You have spent many hours learning English, whether for your work or school situation. Now you need to prove that you do, in fact, know the language as well as you need to for the program you are entering. How can you do this? You can prove your knowledge of the language by taking a test. Two of the most popular are the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) and the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). While these two tests have a similar goal - to show that you know English - they are different in many ways. Difference in Intent One difference in the two tests is in the intent. The main intent of the TOEFL is to determine whether or not the test taker can speak, read, understand, and write English well enough to attend college in an English-speaking program. The questions, reading material, and listening material are all designed on a college level. While there is one version of the IELTS that is designed for college applicants, the Academic Version, the IELTS also comes in a General Training Version. This is used for those who are looking to head to an English-speaking country for work or immigration. Many companies who are looking to hire non-native English speakers need to know that their employees can speak and understand English, and they require a test to show this. Also, Australia and Canada require those who are immigrating to their countries to pass the test as part of their citizenship requirements. Difference in Focus Another difference between the two tests is the focus. The TOEFL is designed for North American speakers and hearers. The spoken portions are read by native North American speakers. The questions of form and style are based on North American English. On the other hand, the IELTS is designed to fit a variety of accents and situations. The writing styles and accents incorporated into the test are designed to mimic the accent and style of many different countries. This makes this test ideal for those who are looking to test their ability to speak and read English, but do not necessarily need to speak and read North American English. The Structure of the IELTS Candidates who are taking the IELTS are required to complete four modules. These are speaking, reading, writing, and listening. Once complete, the applicant will receive a band, or score, which will be displayed on the IELTS Test Report Form. The highest possible score is a 9 band score, which means the individual is completely competent in all tested areas. The Listening and Speaking Modules are the same for both the academic and general versions of the exam, but the Reading and Writing Modules are not. The test takes 2 hours and 45 minutes to complete. The Listening, Reading, and Writing Modules must be completed in that order on the same day without a break. The Speaking Module can be completed within a week prior to or following the written portion of the test. The Structure of the TOEFL The TOEFL can be taken online or at a testing center. When taken online, the applicant has four hours to complete the Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing sections of the test. Each section has its own time limit. The paper-based test is similar in structure. However, it has a structure and written expression section rather than a speaking section. These test similar skills, just in a different format. The Internet based version has a highest possible score of 120 and a lowest possible score of 0. The paper version is scored in a range between 310 and 577, with each section scored separately, but the writing section not included in the final score. While the TOEFL and the IELTS have significant differences, both are good ways to judge whether or not an English speaker truly knows the language. If you are trying to decide which test to take, contact the school or company with which you are applying to see which test they prefer.

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FREE TIPS AND STRATEGIES FOR THE IELTS TEST

Introduction

IELTS has become big business. Every week, all around the world, tens of thousands of nervous people take identical tests, each with a particular educational or migratory goal up for grabs. It is not surprising, therefore, that courses aimed at preparing students for this test have sprung up everywhere. While the quality of these courses varies wildly from school-to-school, there are a number of simple strategies which are included in even the most basic of preparation courses. While it would be impossible to highlight all of the tips and strategies for the test here (some preparation courses run for 100 hours), this article aims to outline the general strategies every candidate should be aware of before attempting the test.

The IELTS test consists of four components; listening (30 minutes), reading (1 hour), writing (1 hour) and speaking (12-15 minutes). The entire test, therefore, lasts for around 3 hours.

There are two varieties (modules) of the IELTS test. The general training (GT) module of the test is used primarily for visa purposes or for entry into overseas high schools. The Academic module is accepted byuniversities. The listening and speaking tests for each module are identical, while the writing and reading sections are simplified in the the GT module. For the purposes of this article, the more widely taken Academic module of the IELTS test will be discussed.

First, some strategies common to all sections of the test.

General Strategies

Read or listen to instructions carefully. Many candidates are school or university graduates and, having recently sat a variety of examinations, feel that the reading of instructions in exams represents a waste of time. A big mistake in IELTS. Put simply, candidates who do not follow instructions invariably get answers wrong. There is a variety of instructions in the four test components, including ‘answer in not more that 3 words’ or ‘answer using a short phase’. With the former a 4-word answer, however accurate, is wrong. With the latter a complete sentence, however accurate, would also be wrong.

Manage you time. Be aware of the time, and be aware of where you are up to in the test. In the reading test, you have one hour to complete 3 sections, so never spend more than twenty minutes on each section. Simple. In the writing test, ensure you spend no more than twenty minutes on the first task, leaving 40 minutes for the longer, more important second task.

Don’t panic. If it seems like it’s a difficult test section, the chances are that tens of thousands of people taking the same test on the same day find it difficult. The band scores are only calculated after all of the world’s results are collated, and for a difficult test the number of correct answers needed for a particular band score is lower. If you think you had a particularly bad section in your test, learn to forget about it and focus on the next section. The chances are you did better than expected, and there is simply no point worrying about your poor listening test while you are answering the reading questions.

There follows one or two further tips and strategies to help you prepare for each component of the test.

The Listening Test

People are often most worried about the listening test because, unlike reading and writing, it’s a one-shot deal. There’s no opportunity to re-listen to the recording so if you miss it, it’s gone forever. This is why pre-listening preparation is the key to success here.

Use your time wisely. You are given around 30 seconds to read each section before listening, and the same length of time to check answers to each section after listening. Don’t waste this time. Use the time before listening to read instructions and questions and, very importantly, predict. Predict what you are going to hear, who will be talking, where they are talking and why. Predict the answers. Predict the part of speech (noun, verb, adjective, adverb) or try to guess the answer based on your general knowledge and clues given in the questions themselves. At the end of each section, use the ‘checking time’ to see if your predictions were correct, guess answers left blank (never leave blank answers in IELTS), and check your spelling, capital letters and grammar.

Underlining. It’s a very good idea to underline the key words in questions. The process of underlining helps you to listen for these keywords and prepares you, perhaps on a subconscious level, to identify these words in rapidly spoken dialogue.

Transfer answers carefully. At the end of the listening test you will be given ten minutes to transfer your answers to an answer sheet. Do this very carefully. Use the opportunity to check spelling and grammar, and guess unknown answers.

The Reading Test

A difficult question carries the same number of points as an easy question, so don’t waste time on one tricky question. Leave it, do the easier ones, then come back to it later.

Read the instructions and questions first. As you read the questions, again underline keywords and try to think of similes (different word, same meaning). The words in the text itself are usually a paraphrase of the question words.

Depending on the type of question, use scan reading and skim reading techniques. Scanning involves running your eyes up, down, left and right over the text (not reading each line) to search for a word or phase or specific piece of information. Imagine the way in which we find a number in a telephone directory. Skim reading involves reading every line quickly, ignoring ‘grammar words’ and unknown words. Using this method we can quickly develop a general understanding of the text, which is useful for summary-type questions, or questions which require an understanding of the entire text or the writer’s point of view.

The Writing test

In part one, you are expected to spend 20 minutes writing a description of a graph, table, process or combination of the three. In the second part, you have 40 minutes to write a 250-word academic style essay. Stick to the times.  Part two is longer and more important, and requires a full 40 minutes, so make sure you move on at the right time.

Part one is all about description of data, and comparison of data. Suggesting causes or reasons for the data or trends is a waste of time. Always try to compare data you see, rather than simply listing the information in front of you. Be especially careful to take note of the dates and times in the data, and use the correct tense.

In part two, analyse the question carefully, brainstorm your ideas first, then decide how to structure the paragraphs before you begin writing. Stick to the topic, and try to leave at least five minutes at the end to check your work. Having an awareness of the weaknesses in your writing enables you to use this checking time more effectively, as you can check for the kind of mistakes you have made in the past.

The examiner is looking for four things when he or she grades your writing: The content (did you answer the question?), the grammar (is the grammar correct, and is there a wide range of grammatical structures?), vocabulary (is the vocabulary appropriate, correctly spelled, and is there a wide range of words?) and cohesion (is the essay well structured, and have you used a variety of linking words effectively?)

Success in the writing test requires practice. Practice writing tests are essential, as is the need to learn from mistakes you make. If you are lucky enough to have a teacher helping you prepare, make sure you analyse corrections they make in your practice essays, and try not to make the same kind of mistake in your next attempt.

In the second part of the test, try to present a balanced argument. Show both sides of the story. If you are asked for your opinion, try to show both points of view before making your opinion clear in the conclusion.

Finally, write neatly and clearly, and make corrections using a single line through the error, as opposed to a scribble. There is no score for legibility or tidiness, but poor handwriting may put the examiner in a ‘bad mood’, making him or her more likely to give a lower score for a borderline essay!

The Speaking Test

Success in speaking tests comes through practice and confidence. Confidence is the key, but often confidence only comes after a considerable amount of practice. Remember that it is a speaking test, so speak as much as possible and never give one-word answers to questions. In part 2 you are expected to talk on a given topic for one to two minutes, after one minute of preparation time. Prepare wisely by writing as many notes as possible (keywords to remind you what to say), thus minimizing the risk of ‘going blank’ during the speech. Try to talk for the full two minutes until the examiner asks you to stop, thus demonstrating you ability to ‘keep going’ and improving your score for fluency. Part three contains more abstract questions, while the first two parts are all about you, and familiar topics. Listen very carefully to the questions, especially in part three, and respond appropriately. Don’t talk about yourself in part three.

The examiner is grading you on four aspects of your spoken English: your fluency (ability to keep going), your grammar (range and accuracy), vocabulary (range and appropriacy) and pronunciation. Prepare by studying grammar and vocabulary but try not to worry about grammar too much in the test itself, as thinking about the correct grammatical form will almost invariably result in a decrease in fluency.

The day of the test: last-minute preparation

IELTS is a long, tiring test. So, make sure you sleep well the night before and have a good, hearty breakfast. Research has shown that protein rich breakfasts are good before an exam, and carbohydrates should be avoided. Don’t drink too much coffee! Never do last-minute revision on the test day, as you may find something new and panic; last-minute revision is almost always counter-productive. The best things you can do in the hours before the test are speak English to family and friends, or re-read your old, corrected essays. Nothing more.

Arrive early at the test centre, allowing time for unexpected traffic delays. Get to know your surroundings so that you feel comfortable, and sneak a peek in the exam room so you know what to expect. While waiting, speak English to the other candidates in order to keep your brain switched onto ‘English mode’.

Remember that the IELTS test isn’t such a huge deal. If you don’t get the score you need, you can take it again and again (until your money runs out, anyway). Prepare thoroughly, practice as much as possible  and take the test day step-by-step, and you’ll have that band score you need in no time.

For a more comprehensive set of tips and strategies, and for test practice, enroll on an IELTS preparation course. In Jakarta Indonesia, one school leads the way in preparing candidates for the IELTS test both quickly and effectively. For more information follow this link: IELTS

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FREE TWENTY QUESTIONS ABOUT THE IELTS EXAM

1.            What level of English do I need to take IELTS? IELTS can provide a test result for all candidates from beginner to very advanced. Remember, however, that the examination is pitched at intermediate level and above. 2.            How often can I sit IELTS? There is no limit to the number of times you may sit IELTS. 3.            How often is IELTS available? There are no set dates for IELTS. Most test centres offer the test at least once a month and busy centres may conduct more sessions at peak time of the year. 4.            Where is IELTS available? There are over 250 approved test centres in over 105 different countries. Contact UCLES, the British Council or IDP Education Australia for an up-to-date list of centres. 5.            Do I receive a certificate? No. You will receive a Test Report Form (TRF) from the centre where you sat the test showing your band score in each part of the test. 6.            How long is a test score valid? As with all language proficiency tests, a result has a maximum ‘shelf life’ of approximately 2 years. To be valid after 2 years, an IELTS TRF should be accompanied by evidence that you have maintained your level of English through your studies or effective use of the language. 7.            What score do I need to get into university? This depends upon the institution to which you are applying. While some will accept you at Band 5, most universities require a minimum of 6.5 overall with a minimum score of 6 in each sub-test. Some courses with a heavy emphasis on language may ask for a higher score. You should seek advice form the Faculty or University to which you are applying. 8.            Do I need to pass each paper to pass IELTS? There is no actual ‘pass mark’ for IELTS. You will receive a TRF which shows your performance on the 9 band scale in each of the four modules. The four scores are then combined to produce your overall band score. There are no IELTS certificates – just this form. 9.            How long does it take to get an IELTS result? You will receive your result within two weeks of sitting the test. The result will come from the centre where you sat the test. 10.            If I reach a satisfactory level in one part of the test but not in other parts, do I have to sit the whole test again? Yes. You have to sit all four Modules each time you sit IELTS. Your score on all parts of the test will be recorded on each TRF. 11.            How long does it take to go from one Band level to the next? This depends on your personal circumstances – your motivation to learn, your exposure to English and the amount of time you spend studying. 12.            Do I have to study at an English language school before I take IELTS? No. However, it is important to be familiar with the types of questions you will meet in the test. Spending time in an IELTS preparation class with other students will certainly be helpful because IELTS differs from other English examinations. 13.            Do I have to sit all parts of the test on the same day? The Listening, Reading and Writing modules are taken on the same day. The Speaking test is usually on this day but may be held up to two days later – at the discretion of the centre. 14.            Is IELTS available on computer? A computerized version of IELTS – known as CBIELTS – will be available at some centres for the Listening and Reading tests. You can choose whether to take the Writing test on screen or on paper. However, you will always be able to take the pen and paper version of the test at all centres. 15.            What age must I be to sit IELTS? IELTS is not recommended for candidates under the age of 16. 16.            Is there a difference between an Academic and a General Training IELTS score? Yes. The Academic module is designed to assess whether you are ready to study in an English language medium at undergraduate or postgraduate level. A General Training score cannot be used for entry to a university as the emphasis of GT is on basic survival skills in a broad social and educational context. The results are not interchangeable. 17.            Which module should I sit if I want to emigrate to Australia or New Zealand? You should sit the General Training module. A score of 5.5 is generally required. 18.            How many times will I hear the Listening module? There are four sections to the Listening module and you will hear each part ONCE only. 19.            Will I be penalize if I cannot spell a word properly in the Listening test? Poor spelling and grammar in your answers will be penalized though minor misspellings are overlooked. Both British and American spelling is accepted, however. 20.            Is there a choice of questions in the Writing Test? No. There will be one Task 1 question and one Task 2 question. You must answer both questions in the time allowed.

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ALL ABOUT IELTS TEST LISTENING PREPARATION

Can I complete the Listening and Reading answer sheet in pen?
No. The answer sheet is scanned by a computer which cannot read pen.

Can I make some notes on the Listening and Reading Question paper?
Yes. The examiner will not see your question paper.

What kind of accents will I hear in the Listening and Speaking tests? 
As IELTS is an international test, a variety of English accents are used in both of these examinations.

What is the Speaking test?
The Speaking test is conducted with a one-to-one interview with a certified examiner, which is recorded on an audiocassette.

What should the candidate bring for the Speaking test?
The candidate needs to bring the same identification documents they supplied on registration, as these must be checked again against the information on the application form. These documents will be checked by the administrator and the Speaking examiner prior to the candidate entering the interview room.

What kind of accents will I hear in the Listening and Speaking tests? 
As IELTS is an international test, a variety of English accents are used in both of these examinations.

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IELTS Exam Articles from Your IELTS Online

Have you ever experienced the power of your friends? Especially 
during your exam preparation days. Many students keep themselves 
away from friends and study alone to score more marks in exams. 
Parents also encourage their children by pushing them to shy away 
from discussions and combined studies to concentrate more on exam 
topics.

But IELTS exam really need good friends. Good friends circle that can 
help you score good marks in this exam. Sounds amazing, right? When 
it comes to development of English language skills, your friends can 
help to act as critics, resourceful guides and astounding motivators in 
your endeavor. This will make you to experiment and improve your 
English language skills, get necessary help and constant 
encouragement from them.

How to form a friends circle ?
When you plan for IELTS exam and if you really want to improve 
English language skills, and then form a friend’s circle that is ready to 
help you. Ensure that the group can spend atleast 2 to 3 hours daily 
with you patiently. The minimum requirement is that they know 
English well and loves to help you.
What to do with friend circle ?
Plan your training schedule with them. In this training schedule, 
include debates, elocutions, group discussions, essay writing and 
watching talk shows in TV. You can do this in your home or in a park. 
Make every day interesting with a new topic. Your job is to ensure 
that your friends are interested and ready to help, you till the exam 
finish. Ensure that you talk with them only in English and not in 
native language. Normally friends slowly drift to native language to 
express their ideas more forcefully. It should be avoided at any cost 
as it’s seen that such drifts slowly decrease the effectiveness of the 
purpose.
What is your role?
When you start a meeting with your friends at a convenient place, 
take a skill a day for practice. Plan your week, giving importance to 
each skill everyday with a solid study plan. As a word of caution, don’
t force your friends to assemble for your needs or maintain 
attendance register. Make this event interesting and mutually 
beneficial.

For speaking skill improvement, conduct serious debates and lectures .
At end of the day let you friends comment about your mistakes you 
have made. Note down all the points and improve upon it. Don’t take 
these comments as insults but take it as opportunities for 
improvement.

In writing skill, write atleast 2 essays and submit to your friends circle 
for evaluation. Allow them to read loud, comment and criticize. You 
have to note down all the corrections that they tell. It can be from 
framing the sentences to logical flow of information. Rewrite the 
essay after the meeting.

Reading skills are developed through attending reading 
comprehension exercises and discussing about short stories you have 
read recently. You can also discuss about new vocabulary you 
identified with its meaning. Your friends help you by checking your 
recalling power in reading comprehension by asking questions from a 
short story you have read. You have to answer with as much 
seriousness as though you attend an IELTS speaking interview.

Listening skills are developed by improving your hearing faculties. It 
includes improving your concentration and attention to details while 
listening. Make your friends to discuss about any subject they like 
and identify their grammatical errors. Along with it, absorb the key 
points about the subject that they talked in detail. All this will help 
you in your speaking and writing section.

Make your friends a valuable asset for you. They will assure all their 
help in getting you a good score in IELTS exam and return the same 
back with gratitude when they prepare for IELTS exam.

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IELTS: Facts Not Many People Know

There are many aspects in IELTS that people find surprising, usually when it hits them hard. It is quite a paradox – the information is right there, available to everyone, yet people are still in the dark. Allow me to draw your attention to several facts you don’t want to be surprised about.

Usually extensive answer is considered a very good one, but not in IELTS. When instructions say “give one answer” or “answer in 3 words”, it means “give us two answers or 4 words and we’ll fail you”. The reason for this limit is quite simple and obvious – there is not enough room for more than 3 words on Answer Sheet. By the way, articles “a” and “the” count as one word, while common assumption is that they don’t.

People tend to forget that they are graded by Answer Sheet and not by what they wrote in IELTS booklet. Any correct answer not copied to Answer Sheet will result in exactly 0 points. There is an option of submitting appeal and requesting to read your answers from the booklet, but it takes time and costs money.

Not many people think about what they are going to write with, pen or pencil. Yet there are rules: the Listening and Reading answers are to be written in pencil and Writing - in pen. This is another example of how small details can be very significant in IELTS.

Writing and Speaking are graded differently from Listening and Reading. There is no half band grade, which means it is impossible to get 6.5 in either Writing or Speaking. The reason is the way examiners are currently trained, but hopefully it will change in the future (according to official IELTS site maybe even in 2007).

In Reading and Listening tests the spelling is important, meaning one can loose points for misspelled words. The best way to overcome the spelling problem is to copy words. In case of Reading, copying words from text is a very easy and natural thing to do. In Listening test, as simple as it may sound, it is best to write what you hear and not to rephrase. It is acceptable to skip words – after all there is 3 words limit, as long as the important words are not substituted by their synonyms.

And at last some good news: starting from May 2006 candidates don’t need to wait 90 days to retake the test. The 90-day waiting period has been canceled to the joy of those who have no time to waste.

About The Author Simone Braverman is the author of "ACE The IELTS" e-Book. She once had to take the IELTS test to open a door to a dream. Her curiosity pushed her quite a bit further into extensive research on differnt aspects of IELTS test. More information at www.IELTS-blog.com.

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IELTS Speaking

The speaking part is usually a conversation about you, your plans for the future, your past studies, the reason for which you are taking the IELTS, your country, your town. Therefore be prepared for these subjects. You should prepare something to say about them. In addition, the examiner will show you a card with an argument you are supposed to discuss. The thing you have to remember is: use easy words and expressions if you are not very confident and everything will go well. To be able to comunicate what you think is far more important than doing it with a perfect English accent. Therefore, don't worry if your pronunciation is not exactly a British one. That's not the main point. Your understanding of what the examiner says and the ability to comunicate without grammatical mistakes is more important. The conversation usually lasts 15-20 minutes and will be recorded. Don't panic about that!

The Speaking part of the test have been changed on July 1, 2001. It is now made up of three parts (this is the description of the test taken from the official IELTS website):
In Part 1 the candidate answers general questions about themselves, their homes/ families, their jobs/studies, their interests, and a range of similar familiar topic areas. This part lasts between four and five minutes.

In Part 2 the candidate is given a verbal prompt on a card and is asked to talk on a particular topic. The candidate has one minute to prepare before speaking at length, for between one and two minutes. The examiner then asks one or two rounding-off questions.

In Part 3 the examiner and candidate engage in a discussion of more abstract issues and concepts which are thematically linked to the topic prompt in Part 2. The discussion lasts between four and five minutes. 

• Tip from Ros (March 2001):

In the speaking section of the test you are often asked for your opinion about something. For example, if you are a student studying in Australia, the examiner may say; ‘What do you think of Australia?’ Most students would have an opinion about this but they often wouldn’t know where to begin. REMEMBER whenever you are asked for your OPINION about ANYTHING you can always give both the ‘positive’ and the ‘negative’ aspects of the subject in question. So your answer would go something like: ‘Well, I like Australia because the people are friendly and the pace of life is slow, HOWEVER I don’t like the hot weather and shopping hours are too short.
You will get a better score because you have made a COMPARISON about what is good about Australia and what is bad. Also you have opened the way for the examiner to ask you about the weather or shopping in your country.

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IELTS Writing

There are two writing tasks and you can use an hour to write both. The first is an analysis of a chart, a graph, a table or something similar. The second is a composition about an argument of general interest. It is suggested that you spend 20 minutes on the first task and 40 on the second. I always used more than 20 minutes for the first and about 30 for the second, but you have to decide on your own strategy on the basis of your abilities. Use your time in an intelligent way: remember you have to compose two different tasks and you can't devote too much time to the first (or the second). You can decide to start with the analysis or with the composition. It's up to you. However, remember to read both titles before you start writing. In this way your subconscious will start thinking about the second task while you are writing the first.

Now let me give you some suggestions about the tasks. First of all you have to write at least 150 words. This doesn't mean you have to count the words. The best thing to do is the following: when you write as practice before taking the real test, count the words. In other words, you have to know how long a text you write is. Don't write less than 150 words. However, a composition of 200 words will be perfect; a composition of 300 will be too long and boring for the examiner. In this task you have to present the data shown in a graph (or somewhere else) in a formal way. Try to understand the main points and write about them. In addition, try to explain the reasons of the trend shown: for example if the graph shows that in the last decades the use of cars has increased and the use of bycicles has decreased, you should say something about the possible reasons of this phenomenon. A possible organisation of the work could be the following: devote a paragraph to the introduction (say what you are going to write about); write a second paragraph describing the graph; use a third paragraph to explain the trends. Of course, this is just an example. The point is: you have to organize your work before writing. When you start writing you already have to know what you are going to write.

The suggestions about the number of the words and the organization are valid for the second task as well. The difference is that you have to write at least 250 words for this task. Use the first minutes to think about what you are going to write. Remember: ORGANISATION. You can decide your own way to write the composition; the following is an example: an introduction to write something general about the argument; a first paragraph to write the arguments of those who support a position; a second paragraph to write the opposite arguments. A conclusion with your own ideas about the problem. Try to avoid mistakes in grammar and make a composition in order: the paragraphs have to be clear. Leave a line between them.

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IELTS Listening

The listening part of the test is the first you will encounter. It is divided into four sections with increasing difficulty. The main problem is that you will be allowed to listen to the cassette just once. Usually you have to write something you hear (a telephone number, an address, a name, etc.). Some questions are multiple choice. The total number of questions you have to answer is 40. More than 30 anwers right means a good mark, but sometimes you may get an acceptable mark even with 27 or 28 correct answers. The first suggestion is the following: write the answers as you hear them. Waiting could be a mistake because later you will not to remember the answer, particularly if you have to write something, and you won't get the chance to listen to the same piece again. You will have the chance to read the following questions before listening each section. Use this chance: in this way you will be able to concentrate your attention just to the part  you are interested in. In fact you do not have to understand everything if you want a good mark. You need to understand just what answers you have to give. Do not lose time trying to understand everything. You always have to know what question you are waiting for: when you hear the answer write it at once or, if you do not understand it, start reading the next question and waiting for the answer.

At the end of the listening test you will have 10 minutes to transfer your answers to an answer sheet: use those minutes to complete the answer sheet and try to write something in all the 40 spaces even if you are not sure of the correct answer. A wrong answer is as wrong as no answer: so try! You could be lucky!

IELTS material is in some countries difficult to find. To practice your listening I suggest you to buy or borrow  a library Proficiency test. I found the listening part of Proficiency tests more difficult than IELTS, even though there you can listen to the pieces twice. If you are used to doing difficult tests, you will find the real exam easier! Of course try to listen as much as possible to people speaking in English: films with subtitles are very useful. If you live in England use page 888 of Teletext on television: most of the programs are subtitled. If you live in Australia you should watch "Behind the news" on Channel 2. It is very good for Listening practice.

• Tip from Ros (April 2001):

Between questions you, as the test candidate, are given 30 seconds (1) to check the answers to the section just completed and (2) 30 seconds to read the section which you are about to do. Since time is given at the end of the test to check all your answers, I suggest that you use all 60 seconds to read the next section. Do not waste time checking your answers at this point. One of the biggest difficulties of the IELTS listening test is that you have to read and listen at the same time. Try to read as much as you can during the 60 second break as this will help you to listen for the specific information you need to answer the questions.

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IELTS Reading

In the reading section, the problem is the time. You are supposed to read three passages and to give a total of 40 answers. You have one hour. Therefore you can devote just 20 minutes for a passage, which is sometimes not enough time. First of all: use just 20 minutes for each section: if after 20 minutes you do not have some answers, guess and pass to the next question. Remember: you won't have extra-time at the end of the hour to transfer the answers to the answer sheet. Therefore write them on it at once: this is an important difference from the listening section, where you will be given time to transfer your answers.

Second: read  the questions carefully before reading the passage: this is very very important. If you read the passage without knowing the questions, you will waste your time. Here is a useful procedure: use 3-4 minutes to read the questions; use 10-12 minutes to read the passage and to answer where you can. In this way you should be able to find a lot of answers. Use the last minutes to find the answers in the text that you did not find when you first read the passage. Usually, but not always, you will find the answers in order.

Third: read the instructions given carefully: if you are asked to answer a question taking no more than two or three words from the text, then an answer with more words is definitely wrong. Sometimes you are given a sentence and you have to write YES if it is true according to the text, NO if it is not, NOT GIVEN if the information is not in the text. Remember: ACCORDING TO THE TEXT. You have to be very precise: sometimes just a word in the passage can make you have to decide between two alternatives. 

Other times the text is divided into a number of paragraphs and you are asked to choose a title for each paragraph from a list of possible titles. In the weeks before the exam, test when you read an article in a newspaper or in a magazine, try to give a title to each paragraph. The title is usually the main point of the paragraph. This will help you very much.

• Tip from Ros (May 2001):

Read the following text and try to answer the question you will find at the bottom.
One day my family and I decided to try windsurfing. We went for a few lessons first (only 5) which gave us some idea of the techniques to use when trying to windsurf. After our introductory course we hired a board and off we went for a day at the sea. Although we were not very good, we knew HOW to practice to improve. We only knew this because of our introductory lessons. Just watching others do it would not have been helpful at all, in fact we would have become frustrated and given up. Reading other peoples model essays is a bit like this. When you read it you think 'it seems so easy' but when you try you find out that it's exasperatingly, frustratingly, anxiety provokingly DIFFICULT. Like the poor people who had no lessons to learn to windsurf, you too feel like giving up. REMEMBER THIS: We only needed 5 lessons to learn enough to be able to HELP OURSELVES. We will never be champion windsurfers, just as you will most likely never be able to write English like me and I will never be able to write Chinese (which I am trying to learn) or any other language, like you. THE GOOD NEWS IS: you don't have to - you only have to get through the IELTS test. We didn't aim at being champion windsurfers - we only wanted to have fun. You, like us, only need to be given some techniques and away you will go. A WORD OF CAUTION: If I had only one hand, for example, I would not have been able to learn to windsurf. If you do not have the basics of English you will be in the same position. However, if you do have the basics all you need is the techniques to tackle the IELTS. MY VIDEO WILL HELP YOU WITH THIS.
 

After reading the message decide which of the following would be the best heading for it:

(a) The IELTS test and wind-surfing are similar.

(b) The best way to succeed in the IELTS is to get some help from an expert.

(c) The IELTS Tutor will help you to do well in the IELTS

Which one is the best heading (a), (b) or (c). 

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Skills for the Speaking Module

Before the test begins, the examiner will check your identification. For security reasons you will be asked to bring your passport or some other photographic identification. You will be asked to sign your name, which will be matched up with the photograph and signature on your IELTS application form.

The test will then be conducted in five phases, which we will now describe in turn.

Phase 1: Introduction

In Phase 1, the examiner will first introduce himself or herself and will invite you to do the same. You may be asked some general questions about your background, family, home or personal interests.

SKILL      Greeting the interviewer and introducing yourself.

Phrases you could use:

• ‘Good afternoon. My name is    (name)    .
• ‘Hello. My name is   (name)  but most of my friends call me   (shortened version of name/nickname)   .

Think about questions that the examiner might ask about the personal information you provided on the application form. With a partner, take turns interviewing each other with questions based on this information. Try to give full and comprehensive answers to each question.

Phase 2: Extended discourse

In phase 2, the interviewer will encourage you to speak for a longer period of time on a familiar topic. You may be asked to speak on topics related to your country, such as customs or lifestyle, and your personal involvement with these. The aim of Phase 2 is to show the interviewer that you can describe something, tell a story, give information or directions or express your opinion without relying on the interviewer to help you through the task.

The idea is for you to talk and give as much information as you can. Do not simply answer 'yes' or 'no'. Remember, the interview should be like a conversation. Do not memorise responses. If you appear to be reciting from memory, the examiner will interrupt  and ask a different question.

Before you begin preparing for Phase 2, you may wish to make a list of topics related to your country, culture, lifestyle, personal interests, etc. Once you have completed such a list, form questions that relate to each of the skills for this phase. Think about possible questions that could be asked.

With a speaking partner, practise interviewing and being interviewed. Try to give full and comprehensive answers to each question.

SKILL  Providing general factual information.

Questions you may be asked:

• ‘What are some important festivals in your country?'
• ‘What kind of climate does your country have?'
• ‘What are some of the main industries in your country?'

SKILL  Expressing your opinions and attitudes.

Questions you may be asked:

• What do you enjoy about the traditional music of your country?
• ‘What do you think are positive and negative aspects of your country's education system?'
• ‘Would you prefer to live in the city or in the countryside and why?

SKILL   Describing a place, event or situation.

Questions you may be asked:

• ‘Could you describe the village/town/city in which you grew up'?
• ‘What happens during (cultural event, such as Chinese New Year/Christmas) in your country'?
• ‘Could you tell me how you like to spend your leisure time?'

SKILL   Comparing places, events or situations.

Questions you may be asked:

• ‘How is (city where candidate is studying) different from (candidate's home city)?’
• ‘What is the difference between shopping in (city where candidate is studying) and shopping in (candidate's home city)?’
• ‘What do you like most about living in (country where candidate is studying)? How does that compare with (candidate's home country)?’

SKILL    You should be able to give directions and instructions.

Questions you may be asked:

• ‘Could you tell me, in detail, how you got from your home to the test centre this morning?’
• ‘If I had to catch a train or bus in (candidate's home city) what would I do?’
• ‘If I were to meet (an important older person) in your culture, how should I greet them to be polite and show respect?’

SKILL    You should be able to re-tell a story or a sequence of events.

Questions you may be asked:

• ‘What happens in (an important festival) in your country?’
• ‘What is the most embarrassing thing that's ever happened to you?’
• ‘What did you do when you were preparing to leave (candidate's home country) to come to (country of study)?’

SKILL   Explaining how or why something is done.

Questions you may be asked:

• ‘Why do people do what?’(referring to something just mentioned)
• ‘Could you tell me more about the procedure involved in (the topic under discussion)’
• ‘How do people celebrate the New Year in (candidate's country)?’

Phase 3: Elicitation

In Phase 3, the interviewer wants to ascertain how competent you are at gaining information on a given topic.

You will be given a card. On this card will be written a brief outline of a particular situation. The card will state your role and the role of the interviewer. You need to ask questions to find out more information. The card will suggest things for you to ask but these are only given to you as a guide. Do not feel compelled to follow these suggestions if you have ideas of your own.

You are responsible for starting the conversation and, to some degree, developing and directing the flow of dialogue.

To prepare for Phase 3, select one of the exercises from the Practice work cards below. Practise asking questions with a partner.

Phase 4: Speculation and attitudes

In Phase 4, the interviewer will converse with you in greater depth on a particular topic. Topics that may be discussed include your plans for the immediate and long-term future and the impact that these may have on you and your family. Your opinion about, attitude towards and reasons for your particular future plans may also be discussed.

The interviewer may not understand or agree with some of your responses. You may be asked to expand or elaborate on some point that you have made, so be prepared for such a response. Being prepared, however, never means memorising set responses.

During Phase 4, the interviewer will allow the discussion to become more complex. He or she may refer to other comments you have previously made so you may have to defend your opinion or give a more detailed explanation of an idea you have already mentioned.

Before you begin preparing for Phase 4, you may wish to make a list of your future plans under the headings of academic, professional, personal and possible conse-quences of these plans. Also, make a list of topics that relate to your personal interests in life as well as a wider rangs of topics relating to your country, profession and specific area of study.

SKILL   Discussing your future plans.

Questions you may be asked:

• ‘Tell me what you plan to do when you finish your undergraduate studies.’
• ‘Have you thought about which university you would like to study at and why?’
• ‘How did you come to choose (a chosen area of study)?’
• ‘Would you ever like to have your own business? Why or why not?’

Here are some key phrases you could use: 

In the future	I hope to  I would like to	successfully complete	a foundation course. a master's degree.
In a few years	I intend to I'm planning to	graduate from study at	the University of Sydney. Astoria College.
In two years	what I have in mind is to	major in  study explore the area of	Psychology. International Trade. Marketing.
Within three years	I imagine I will	receive complete	a BA. an MA. an MBA. a PhD.

SKILL    Expressing your feelings, opinions and attitudes.

Questions you may be asked:

• ‘What are your thoughts about (controversial issue)?’
• ‘How would you feel if (a controversial issue) were to happen in the next three or four years?’
• ‘You seem to support (a controversial viewpoint). Why is this?’
• ‘Have you ever had to choose between (X) and (Y)? How did you make this decision? How did you feel as a result of your choice?’

SKILL   Explaining why you made certain decisions in the past and giving reasons for your plans for the future.

Questions you may be asked:

• ‘How did you know that you wanted to become a (candidate's choice of profession)?’
• ‘When did you decide to study overseas? What influenced you to make this decision?’
• ‘Why have you decided to study (candidate's choice of study)? How will this help your future career?’

SKILL   Expressing agreement and disagreement.

Questions you may be asked:

• ‘I agree with you to a point on this matter, but could you expand on it a little more, please?’
• ‘I'm not quite convinced by what you are saying. Could you develop your idea more for me, please?’
• ‘I'm sorry I don't quite understand what you are trying to say. Could you put it another way, please?’

Phrases you could use when agreeing:

• ‘Well, of course ... Naturally ... I couldn't agree more ...’

Phrases you could use when disagreeing:

• ‘I'm sorry. I can't agree with you ... I don't really think so ...’
• ‘That may be so but ... Unfortunately, I have a different point of view ...’

SKILL   Discussing hypothetical situations and speculating on future events.

Questions you may be asked:

• ‘How do you think having a degree from an overseas university is going to help your job prospects when you return to (candidate's home country)?’
• ‘Do you think that the time spent studying in a foreign country is going to benefit you personally? If so, in what ways?’
• ‘How do you think your country benefits when students return from studying abroad?’

SKILL   Following and responding to changes in tone and direction in the interview.

Questions you may be asked:

• ‘Do you have any regrets about choosing (candidate's choice of profession) or (candidate's choice of country in which to study)?’
• ‘If you could repeat the year of your life, what would you do differently?’
• ‘What advice would you give other students planning on (studying overseas)?’

Phase 5: Conclusion

This is the final section of the assessment and will naturally follow on from Phase 4. The interviewer will let you know that the interview has come to an end, wish you good luck and say goodbye.

You can prepare yourself for this phase by becoming familiar with common expressions of leave-taking, noting them and practising responses to them.

SKILLS    Noting that the interview is finishing and saying thank you (with a smile!).

Phrases you could use:

• ‘Thank you very much.’
• ‘Goodbye.’
• ‘See you.’

Coping with the interview

There may be times in the interview when you may not understand what the examiner is saying because he or she may be speaking too softly or too quickly. Perhaps the examiner may be using words or phrases you do not know. At these times, do not be afraid to assert yourself. Ask the examiner to speak more loudly, more slowly or to use other words. Also, do not hesitate to ask the examiner to repeat his or her words at any time.

Phrases you could use:

• ‘Could I ask you to speak more loudly please?’
• ‘Sorry but I didn't catch that. Would you please repeat what you just said?’
• ‘I'm not quite sure what you mean. Could you explain it to me?’ 

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