Preparing for the IELTS Speaking test can be daunting, especially if you are not used to speaking in English regularly. However, with the right mindset and strategies, you can confidently approach the test and achieve your desired score. In this blog, we will discuss some useful tips and tricks on How To Prepare For Ielts Speaking.
There are several websites who provide IELTS Speaking pdf 2023, where you can get free pdf for practising.
Understanding the IELTS Speaking Test
Before knowing the best tips on How To Prepare For Ielts Speaking, it is important to understand the structure and format of the IELTS Speaking test. The test consists of three parts:-
Part 1: Introduction and Interview (4-5 minutes) In this part, the examiner will ask general questions about yourself, your family, your work or study, your interests, etc.
Part 2: Individual Long Turn (3-4 minutes) In this part, you will be given a topic to talk about for 2 minutes, and you will have one minute to prepare and take notes.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion (4-5 minutes) In this part, you will discuss the topic with the examiner in Part 2. The examiner will ask you some follow-up questions related to the topic.
Tips On How To Prepare For Ielts Speaking
Now that you understand the test structure let’s move on to some preparation tips.
Improve your English Speaking Skills
Your ability to speak English properly and effectively is assessed on the IELTS Speaking exam. Therefore, improving your English speaking skills before the test is important. You can do this by:-
- Speaking English daily with friends, family, or colleagues.
- Watching English movies, TV shows, or videos and trying to speak along with the characters.
- Listening to English podcasts or radio programs and practising summarising or retelling the information.
- Read English books, newspapers, or articles aloud and try to express your opinion.
Familiarise Yourself with Common Topics
The IELTS Speaking test covers many topics, such as education, work, travel, health, and technology. It is important to be familiar with these topics and have some ideas and vocabulary related to them. You can do this by:
- Reading IELTS Speaking sample questions and answers online.
- Writing down some common vocabulary and expressions related to each topic.
- Practise speaking about these topics with a friend or a tutor.
Practice Speaking under Test Conditions
One of the best ways to prepare for the IELTS Speaking test is to practise speaking under test conditions. It means simulating the test environment as closely as possible. You can do this by:
- Find a quiet place where you won’t be interrupted and set a timer for each part of the test.
- Recording yourself and listening to your performance to identify areas that need improvement.
- Speaking to a friend or a tutor who can give you feedback and evaluate your performance.
Develop a Strategy for Part 2
Part 2 of the IELTS Speaking test can be challenging because you must speak for 2 minutes on a topic. To do well in this part, you need to develop a strategy. You can do this by:
- Read the topic carefully and underline the keywords and phrases.
- Brainstorming some ideas and notes related to the topic.
- Organising your ideas into a clear and logical structure, using linking words and phrases.
- Speaking clearly and fluently, using a range of vocabulary and grammar structures.
Use a Wide Range of Vocabulary
Using a wide range of vocabulary is important in the IELTS Speaking test, as it shows your ability to express yourself effectively. You can improve your vocabulary by:
- Reading extensively and making notes of new words and phrases.
- Using a dictionary or a thesaurus to expand your vocabulary.
- Practising using new words and phrases in your speaking and writing.
Pay Attention to Pronunciation and Intonation
Pronunciation and intonation are important aspects of the IELTS Speaking test, as they affect how well you can communicate your ideas. You may hone your intonation and pronunciation by:
- Listening to native English speakers and trying to imitate their pronunciation and intonation.
- Practising speaking slowly and clearly, and paying attention to your stress and intonation patterns.
- Ask a friend or tutor to listen to your speaking and give feedback on your pronunciation and intonation.
Be Confident and Stay Calm
Finally, being confident and calm during the IELTS Speaking test is important. You can do this by:
- Believing in your ability to speak English well and confidently.
- Practising relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or visualisation before the test.
- Being positive and focusing on doing your best rather than worrying about the outcome.
Final Words
In conclusion, preparing for the IELTS Speaking test requires a combination of strategies, including improving your English speaking skills, familiarising yourself with common topics, practising speaking under test conditions, developing a strategy for Part 2, managing your time, using a wide range of vocabulary, paying attention to pronunciation and intonation, and being confident and staying calm. Following these tips on How To Prepare For Ielts Speaking, you can confidently approach the IELTS Speaking test and achieve your desired score.
