IELTS Speaking Part 2: Will I get a low score if I speak for less than 2 mins?

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Are you marked down in IELTS Speaking part 2 for speaking less than 2 minutes? In speaking part 2, you will be given a topic, 1 min to prepare and then you will need to speak for between 1-2 mins. The examiner will not move on to part 3 until 1 minute has passed of your talk and the examiner will stop you at exactly 2 minutes to prevent you speaking further. So, this means you have between 1 and 2 minutes available to you for your talk.

Do you need to speak for 2 mins in IELTS Speaking Part 2?

Speaking part 2 is the only part of the test where you can show the examiner that you can speak at length. Speaking at length is important for people aiming for band score 7 and above. So, part 2 is a great chance to show this skill and impress the examiner with fluency. Speaking at length is actually part of the Fluency marking criterion. Aiming for 2 minutes should be your aim.

However, your talk should also avoid hesitations and pauses. Both of these things can impact your score.

Length of Talk for IELTS Speaking Part 2: Useful Tips

Here are some more points to consider:

  1. It is better to give a strong, fluent talk for 1.5 minutes than a weak, hesitant talk for 2 mins.
    • If you can speak for 1.5 mins without hesitations and pauses, this will be better than speaking for 2 mins with lots of hesitations and pauses.
  2. You can still get a high score if you only speak for 1.5 minutes but only if the quality of your talk is very good. This means natural, fluent speaking with great use of language.
  3. The marking criterion of Fluency accounts for 25% of your marks and is taken from your overall performance in all parts not only in part 2.
    • This means if your talk doesn’t go well, you can still showcase your fluency in part 3.
  4. If you wish to lengthen your talk,  then add more information. The prompts (the points on the topic card) are only guidelines – you can and should expand on each one.
  5. Aiming for 2 minutes is ideal.
  6. You must practice before your test what 2 minutes feels like so that you know how much to add. But don’t worry the examiner will stop you at 2 mins.
    • The examiner controls the time in the speaking test. Don’t worry about timing. The examiner will interrupt you when it’s time for the next part or the next question.
  7. Speaking for 1 minute is not ideal because it doesn’t show the examiner your fluency skills.
  8. Don’t expect the examiner to be smiling and positive. Sometimes the examiners are tired so be ready for different body language and don’t let it affect your performance in your test.

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IELTS Reading Tips: Strategies & Comprehension

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Let me explain about IELTS reading with regards to comprehending the passage and how to deal with long passages that are difficult to understand. The advice below is for the academic reading passages and also passage 3 of the GT paper, which is also a long passage.

I don’t have enough time to answer all questions in IELTS Reading

If you struggle with the time limit in IELTS reading, it is possible that you are not using the right strategies and approach. Many people spend too much time reading all the details in the reading passage instead of winning points by getting answers right. You need to have the right aims when you tackle a reading passage.

Do you need to remember and understanding it all?

Remembering:

How do I remember everything I have read?

The answer is – you don’t. IELTS reading is not about remembering what you have read or what each paragraph contains. First reading the question, then locate the area of the passage where the answer is found. Usually it is only a few sentences. You then check the question again to choose your answer. You don’t need to remember all the passage or even a long paragraph.

Comprehension:

How can I understand everything if the passage is long and difficult?

The answer is – you don’t. IELTS reading is not about understanding everything. It is about locating answers and winning points. Usually, as I said above, the answer is located in an area of the passage so all you need to do is understand those few sentences in the passage that relate to the question.

IELTS Reading Tips for Strategy

Skimming and Scanning Skills

Skimming

When you first get your reading passage, you should skim read it. This means you cast your eyes over the passage to get to know the general topic and content as well as to see the general layout of the passage. This should take less than 2 minutes. If you are spending more than 2 mins skim reading, it means you can’t skimming and need to review your understanding of this skill. You are not aiming to understand it, you just want to see what the passage is about before you tackle the questions. It’s like taking a quick peek before you get to the questions.

Scanning

After you skim read the passage, you go straight to the questions. Pay attention to what type of question type it is and remember your techniques and tips for that particular question type. Find a keyword or information in the question to help you locate the answer. You scan the passage by casting your eyes over the words to locate the key information from the question. This should be done with speed to spot a word or piece of information rather than understand each sentence.

Deciding your Answer

Once you locate the place in the passage that contains the answer, you read the sentences before and after to find your answer. This means you only need to understand those few sentences.  Then you move to the next question and do the same. You don’t need to understand the whole passage at all.

Time Management & Winning Points

You have only one hour for the whole reading test including putting all the answers into the computer or onto the answer sheet. You manage this time yourself. You can start where you want, jump questions and jump to different passages.

Each answer is worth only one point and your aim is to get as many points as possible. If you spend a lot of time on one answer, think about its value. Each answer is worth the same so choose how long you want to spend on different questions. And remember you can always leave a question unanswered to come back to it later.

Some questions are easier than others. For example, Matching Headings questions are notorious for taking a long time to answer. So, think about how long you want to spend on those questions.

Make sure you know how many points you need for the band score you are aiming at. Click here: IELTS Band Scores

IELTS Reading Steps

  1. skim the passage (read quickly to get general content and layout)
  2. read the questions
  3. identify the type of question
  4. remember your techniques and tips for that question type
  5. find a key word or information in the question to help you locate the answer in the passage
  6. scan the passage by passing your eyes over the paragraphs to find the key word or information from the question
  7. when you find the location, read the sentences before and after
  8. always read around the answer to check other information
  9. try to understand the few sentences around the location of the answer
  10. when you find the answer, move to the next question
  11. don’t spend too long trying to find one answer
  12. remember that each answer is only worth one point

Question Types

Have a clear strategy for each of the different question types. There are about 14 in total (it depends on how you categorise the question names). So, take a look at the list of question types and make sure you know how to deal with them: IELTS Reading Question Types: Tips and Information

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IELTS Tips: Conclusion or Overview for Writing Task 1?

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Writing a conclusion or an overview for IELTS writing task 1 reports is a question that many people have. Watch the video below to learn excellent tips about which paragraph to add. Knowing whether you need an overview or conclusion can make all the difference to your results.

Conclusion or Overview for IELTS Writing Task 1

The video below will explain whether you should aim for a conclusion or an overview in your IELTS writing task 1 academic paper.

Summary:

Do I need a conclusion for task 1?

Well the answer is no, you don’t. In fact, it’s a bad idea to have a conclusion for task one. You have an overview for task 1 and you have a conclusion for task 2 for for your essay. Now a conclusion is a paragraph that repeats and restates the main points and of course in a short report you shouldn’t be repeating any information. So don’t have a conclusion. But you do need to have an overview. So that’s question two:

What is an overview?

Well overview is a paragraph and it contains all the key features of the chart or graph or whatever you have for your task 1. So all the key points are collected together and put in a overview paragraph.

Is the overview important?

It is so important it is critical for you IELTS writing task 1 this is for the criteria, task achievement. That’s 25% of your marks and if you don’t have an overview, it will be almost impossible to get above band score five for that criteria. So very important indeed. And number 4:

Can I write an overview and a conclusion?

Please don’t. Again the overview contains all the key features and the conclusion is a repeat. We don’t want repetitive information. Also when you have an overview and a conclusion together, it means that you are dividing your key features into two different places and this will affect the criteria of coherence and cohesion, which is all about paragraphs. So it’s very important that all your key features are collected in one paragraph, in the overview, and they’re not again repeated anywhere else in that report. So definitely you cannot have both. And the last one :

Where can i put the overview?

The overview statement usually goes after the introduction but it is possible to put it at the end of your report after the body paragraphs. Which is the best place? For me, I prefer it after the introduction. I like to read all the main points before I read the details but again that’s up to you. Both places are logical. Now if you want some more lessons here are some links to help you prepare for you IELTS test see you soon: IELTS Writing Task 1 Structure and Paragraph Organisation

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IELTS Speaking Part 2: Difficult Topics with Tips

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Below are a few topics which many students find difficult. Plan your ideas and answer so that you are ready for a difficult topics in your test. Remember that whatever you choose to talk about, you must be able to talk for up to 2 minutes on that topic. So, be wise and choose something you can talk about easily.

IELTS Speaking Difficult Cue Card with Coping Techniques

Click “Tips” to reveal tips for the topic.

A Good Law

Describe a law which you think is good.

You should say:

  • what kind of law it is
  • when you first heard of the law
  • how the law is upheld
  • and explain why you think it is a good law
Tips
If you don’t know much about laws, choose a simple law such as a the helmet law which requires motorbike riders and cyclists to wear a helmet or go for the compulsory primary and secondary school education which prevents children from skipping lessons and ensures they get a solid, basic education.

A Wrong Decision

Describe a decision which you have made that you feel was wrong.

You should say:

  • what the decision was
  • why you made that decision
  • why you think it was the wrong decision to make
  • and explain how you would alter that decision if you could
Tips
This could be a bad decision about a holiday you chose, a job you did, some advice you gave someone or even something really simple like a bad decision you made while you were cooking.

A Journey that Didn’t Go As Planned

Describe a journey you have taken that didn’t go as you had planned.

You should say:

  • where you were going
  • who you were traveling with
  • how you were travelling
  • what went wrong
  • and explain what you would have done differently.
Tips
This is a tough topic because not only do you need to think of a story but you also need to pay attention to the grammar tenses you use. This topic will require you to use the 3rd conditional which is used when expressing regrets (if I had known ….., I wouldn’t have ……). Try to stick to a simple story about a time when you did a trip but you had bought the wrong tickets or there was an unexpected delay which caused problems.

A Museum You Like

Describe a museum you like.

You should say:

  • what kind of museum it is
  • what kind of people go there
  • when you first went
  • and example why you like it.
Tips
Many students dislike this topic because they are not familiar with museums. In this case, choose to talk about a museum of local culture – that way you can talk about local culture, traditional ways of life and other interesting historical points about where you are from. If you are familiar with museums, make sure you add lots of detail about your first trip there – who you went with, how old you were, your first impression etc.

A Family Business

Describe a family business you know.

You should say:

  • what kind of business it is
  • how you first heard of this business
  • how often you go there
  • and why you think it is a good business
Tips
This sounds like a tough topic but in fact it isn’t. A family business could be a simple as a local shop that is run by a family or a family run restaurant. If you don’t know any family run businesses, then you could start your talk this way “I don’t really know any family run businesses but there is a fantastic shop round the corner from my house which is as friendly as any family run shop….”

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What do you do if you get a difficult IELTS Cue Card

You should speak as closely as you can to the main topic. IELTS Speaking is not about testing your knowledge or ideas. In fact, ideas are NOT marked. So your knowledge of law or museums is not being assessed. Topics are just a chance to talk. So, stick closely to the main topic and then branch into your own feelings, thoughts, experiences, future hopes, other people’s views etc. Expand your talk beyond the bullet points.

Make sure you prepare ideas for as many topics for speaking part 2. This is not an academic talk or a formal talk so if you make your talk personal and friendly, you will do better. The more topics you prepare for, the better you will do.

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IELTS Listening Multiple Choice Practice & Essential Tips

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This lesson focuses on IELTS listening multiple choice questions and offers tips, practice and useful vocabulary to help you achieve your best. Multiple choice questions are the most difficult of all the questions in IELTS listening and you need to develop the right techniques to deal with them in order to do well.

On this page, you will find:

  1. Multiple Choice Tips
  2. Multiple Choice Practice Lessons
    1. Practice 1: Long List Selection
    2. Practice 2: Picture Selection
    3. Practice 3: Common IELTS MC questions.

1) IELTS Listening Multiple Choice Tips

Preparing the Questions:

  1. check for a title
  2. you might be asked to respond to a question or complete a sentence
  3. find keywords in the question
    1. the keywords will help you understand which answers are right and which are wrong
    2. paraphrase the keywords
    3. if it is a list selection multiple choice, underline the number of answers you need to find – for example, choose three letters.

Preparing the Multiple Answers Options

  1. Read through the answer options
    1. highlight similar options so you don’t get confused
    2. note the differences between those options
    3. think of paraphrases for keywords
  2. All answer options will probably be mentioned in the recording – but only one will be the right answer.
  3. The questions come in order but the answer options will not come in order in the recording, for example you might hear language about option B before you hear option A.
  4. Don’t think that the first answer you hear is the correct one – keep listening. 
  5. Watch out for answers that are given and then taken away again by the speaker. This means the speaking say “green” but later says “sorry, I meant blue”.
  6. Listen for the word “but” or “however” this can mean a negative is coming which means it might not be the right answer.
  7. If you think an answer is correct, put a tick but keep listening to make sure it is right.
  8. You can write on your question paper for the paper test so use ticks and crosses for right and wrong answers.
  9. Don’t forget, you can only listen once to the recording in your test. You can’t pause the recording.
  10. You must develop speed reading skills to be able to read all answers and spot keywords before the recording starts. This skill comes with practice.

Types of Multiple Choice Questions in IELTS Listening

There are four types of multiple choice questions that have appeared in the IELTS Listening Test over the years.  Below you can see examples of them:

IELTS Multiple Choice Listening Question- Answering a Question Three Options

IELTS Multiple Choice Listening Question - finish the sentence

Multiple Choice IELTS Listening Question - Long List

Picture Multiple Choice Sample Question IELTS Listening

In your test, you will not see the words “Type 1” – this label is just for your reference on my website. As you can see above, there are Multiple Choice Questions that ask you to: 1) answer a question  2) complete a sentence  3) select from a long list  4) choose a picture (this is the least common and rarely appears but is still worth preparing for). For each type, your answer will be a letter. I have practice lessons so you can get used to these kinds of questions. See below.

3) Practice Lessons for Multiple Choice IELTS Listening

Below you will find three types of Multiple Choice Listening Practice Lessons. Take your time to do the exercises and also make sure you spend time after to review the transcripts so that you can analyse language, keywords and review your strategies. Enjoy!

Multiple Choice Listening Practice 1

Listening Topic: Health Care Conference

Questions 1-3: Who will be lecturing at the conference today?

Choose three options from the following list (A-G) as your answers

  • A = Dr Christopher Lord
  • B = Dr David Bishop
  • C = Dr George Ripley
  • D = Dr William Benson
  • E = Dr Roger Dean
  • F = Dr Daisy Mandalay
  • G = Dr Ralph Morris

Recording: 

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ANSWERS & TRANSCRIPT

. It’s always best to check your answers reading the transcript and listening again to the recording. This is a great way to develop your listening awareness. After that, check the answer key.

Transcript

Transcript

Today’s topic under discussion is the health care system both past and present. We have a number of guests for today’s lectures, videos and debates, one of them the notable Dr David Bishop.

The morning will be kicked off by Dr Roger Dean who will be presenting his speech summarising the major changes and challenges of the health care system from the year 2000 to around 2012. Following him, will be Dr William Benson who will oversee the debate on today’s problems for hospitals. After lunch, Dr Daisy Mandalay will be showing a revealing video relating to the current trends in health problems faced by today’s society. Dr Christopher Lord will then address everyone on the problems faced by family doctors and the vital role they play in the health care system. Last, but not least, Dr David Bishop, as I mentioned earlier, will take the floor to tell you about his current research. Dr Ralph Morris will be responsible for collecting your feedback on the various parts of the conference at the end of the day. That will conclude our seminars for the day. Tomorrow’s conference details will be put up on the notice board later this afternoon but you will be all please to know that Dr George Ripley has agreed to lecture you all.

Answers

Answers

E  A  B (any order ). This question counts for answers to questions 1, 2 and 3. This means three points – one point for each correct answer. Because they are three questions from the same list, your answers (letters) can b written in any order.

  1. E
    • ‘Dr Roger Dean who will be presenting his speech…’
  2. A
    • ‘Dr Christopher Lord will address everyone…’
  3. B
    • ‘Dr David Bishop, as I mentioned earlier, will take the floor to tell you about…’

Comments: The answer is not C (Dr George Ripley) because he is talking tomorrow not today. The answer is not D (Dr William Benson) because he is running a debate. He is not giving a lecture. The answer is not F (Dr Daisy Mandalay) because she is showing a video not talking. The answer is not G (Dr Ralph Morris) because he is collecting feedback and not speaking.

The key to success in this listening practice is to identify the word “lecture” as the key word in the question. Many names are mentioned but only three people are actually lecturing today.

Vocabulary

Vocabulary

give a lecture / to  lecture Synonyms:

  • give a talk about / on
  • to address people on
  • give a seminar on
  • hold a seminar on
  • to take the floor (to talk)
  • to instruct people on
  • to give a speech about / on
  • to present a speech / talk on about

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Listening Multiple Choice for IELTS Practice 2

This is an example of a picture multiple choice. You must choose the correct picture as your answer based on the description in the recording. As always, your answer will be a letter.

Listening Topic: Mammoths

Question 1: Which type of mammoth is this lecture going to focus on?

Choose the correct letter A-C

Recording: 

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ANSWER & TRANSCRIPT

Click below to reveal vocabulary, transcript and answer:

Vocabulary
mammoth = prehistoric animal now extinct similar in shape to an elephant
physiology = make-up / structure
prominent = major / outstanding
parts of an elephant and mammoth = tusks, trunk, large ears
huge / colossal = enormous / extremely large
Transcript
There is evidence of much change and development in the mammoth. We can see the Ambelodon 20 million years ago, the Stegodon 12 million years ago and finally the Stegotetrabelodon which existed somewhere between 7.5 to 4.5 million years ago. There seem to have been a number of changes in the physiology of the mammoth, the most prominent were in the height, the size of the ears and the shape of the head and tusks. Today, I’m going to be focusing, on the one most of us associate with the ‘so-called’ classic shape and size of a mammoth and which is most known for its huge curving tusks and colossal size.
Answer
B
‘Today, I’m going to be focusing on….. which is most known for its huge curving tusks and colossal size.’. This lesson is the perfect example of how you need to be patient and not get lost in long, technical words, because at the end of the day, the keywords were at the end and the rest was irrelevant information to the answer.

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Multiple Choice Questions Listening Practice 3

Listening Topic: Dashford Study Center

Questions 1-4: Choose the correct letter A, B or C.

  1. Membership at the study center is 20 pounds

A. for everyone.
B. for everyone except the elderly and students.
C. for everyone each year.

2. Members are able to take out

A. an unlimited amount of books.
B. a maximum of 3 books.
C. 3 books for 3 days.

3. Booking is unnecessary for

A. the yoga, dance and gentle exercise classes.
B. general fitness classes.
C. the walking class.

4. Arts and crafts classes are taught by

A. volunteers.
B. teachers.
C. teachers and volunteers.

RECORDING:

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TRANSCRIPT & ANSWERS

Below you can click to reveal the transcript and answers for this lesson.

Transcript

The study center in Dashford was opened to give free educational and recreational services to the community of Dashford. Membership is free for over 65’s as well as for students, as long as they have a student ID. For everyone else it is an annual membership of 20 pounds.

Members are able to enjoy full access to our extensive library. The library comprises of a comprehensive collection of classic literature, resource books, children’s books, history books and popular literature. As members, you are able to borrow up to 3 books at a time for up to 4 days.

Our recreational services extend for both members and non-members. We offer social and leisure activities for all age groups. Our yoga, dance and gentle exercise classes are extremely popular and booking ahead is required to ensure your place on one of these courses. However, our walking group, who meet once a week, offer unlimited places but you do have to have a good level of general fitness. We also have IT classes at beginner, intermediate and advanced levels. But for those of you who are more creative, there are arts and crafts classes which are run by a qualified teacher with volunteer support. Before checking everything why don’t you take a look around and see what you might be interested in.

Answers
  1. B
    • Common trap – Always be careful of words that you hear in the recording and see in the answer options – always look out for extra words such as “everyone else“.
  2. B
    • A maximum of 3 = up to 3. This is a direct paraphrase.
  3. C
    • unlimited places = no need to book
      The trap in this question is that the word ‘booking’ was used with the information about yoga, dance and exercise – IELTS often give the same word with the wrong answer.
  4. B
    • The classes are run by teachers = the classes are taught by teachers. The volunteers only support, they do not teach.

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IELTS Multiple Choice Listening Video

A useful video to review Multiple Choice Techniques.

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20 Common Essay Topics for IELTS Writing Task 2

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Below is a list of the 20 most common IELTS essay topics that appear in writing task 2 with subtopics.  Although the essay questions change, the subject of the essays often remains the same. Each topic is divided into subtopics which you should prepare.

You should practice developing ideas for all common essay topics used by IELTS so that you can write your essay within the given time limit. Follow this link to get over 100 IELTS essay questions for the topics below.

Common Essay Topics with Subtopics

  • Art
    • censorship of art and artists
    • creativity
    • art at school
    • the benefits of art for individuals and society
    • funding
  • Business & Money
    • small vs large business
    • international business
    • family run business
    • management and leadership
    • success in business
    • business and technology
    • skills vs knowledge for business
    • materialism and consumerism
  • Communication & Personality
    • technology and communication
    • family and communication
    • face to face vs long distance communication
    • types of communication
    • the development of character and personality
    • innate or developed personalities
    • female / male characters
  • Crime & Punishment
    • prisons vs rehabilitation
    • capital punishment vs other types of punishment
    • criminals – what makes a criminal
    • major vs minor crime
    • crime and technology
    • teenagers and crime
    • role of policemen
    • men and women in law enforcement
  • Economics 
    • cash vs credit cards
    • saving vs spending
    • globalisation and economy
    • world economic issues
    • economic progress and success
  • Education
    • children and education
    • relevant subjects
    • education and technology
    • role of teachers
    • discipline and rules in school
    • single-sex schools
    • uniforms
    • funding
    • educational aid to poorer countries
  • Environment
    • animals
    • protection of endangered species
    • zoos
    • environmental problems
    • saving the environment & solving problems
    • government vs individual roles
  • Family & Children
    • family roles
    • family size
    • the generation gap
    • discipline
    • role models
    • family and education
  • Food
    • health diets
    • education of diet
    • traditional vs modern diets
    • fast food
    • children and diet
  • Health
    • prevention vs cure
    • funding
    • health and education
    • poor countries and rich countries
    • health aid
    • dealing with global epidemics
    • hospitals and treatment
    • obesity
    • exercise and health
  • Language
    • having only one language in the world
    • methods of language learning
    • travel and language
    • the disappearance of languages
    • language and culture
  • Media & Advertising
    • censorship, control and freedom of speech
    • advertising methods
    • children and advertising
    • media and technology
    • news & reporting
  • Other Common Essay Topics
    • Space Exploration
    • Water and Oceans
    • Change or Moving vs Stability and Constancy
  • Reading
    • paper books vs ebooks
    • children and reading
    • books in education
    • libraries
    • reading and leisure
  • Technology
    • controlling the internet
    • socialising online
    • children and technology (safety)
    • the change in society
    • letter vs email
    • storing data
    • safety of personal information
    • hacking
  • Transport
    • development of infrastructure
    • comparing forms of transport
    • problems with modern forms of transport
    • environmental issues
  • Travel
    • culture and travel
    • understanding people and travel
    • living in a global world
  • Society
    • overpopulation
    • poverty
    • homeless people
    • crime on the streets
    • modern life styles
    • budget spending
    • public services
  • Sport
    • professionals vs amateurs
    • salary
    • equipment
    • sport and learning
    • sport as a school subject
    •  men vs women in sport
    • types of sport
  • Work
    • shift work
    • women in work
    • types of jobs (blue collar / white collar)
    • children and exploitation
    • part time work
    • work and technology
    • employment
    • salary
    • equality

IELTS Writing Task 2

ALL FREE MODEL ESSAYS AND TIPS FOR WRITING TASK 2: IELTS Writing Task 2

100 IELTS Essay Questions

Get over 100 IELTS essay questions for free. The essay questions are organised into topics and also into different types of essays: 100 IELTS essay questions

IELTS Vocabulary

Develop your vocabulary for some of the above topics: IELTS vocabulary page.

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IELTS Writing Task 1: Essential Preparation Tips

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Below are the Essential Preparation Tips for IELTS Writing Task 1 (Academic Paper). Although writing task 1 counts for only about 33% of your marks, it is the key to hitting band 7. For many people, it is writing task 1 that sinks their score. Luckily, task 1 has very specific tasks which can learned if you take the time. Click here for GT Writing Task 1 Tips

12 KEY STEPS FOR IELTS WRITING TASK 1 PREPARATION

Go through each of the points below to make sure you are preparing fully for your task 1.

1. Understanding Task 1

  • Task 1 is a report, not an essay.
  • Reports have set structures, set language, set key features – they are more formulaic than an essay. This is important because it means with the right preparation you can nail a high score.
  • Your report will be based on a bar chart, line graph, table, map, diagram or pie chart.
  • Instruction: “write at least 150 words”. This means you must write over 150 words. Usually between 170 and 190 words. Over 210 will lower your score.
  • Write your report in 20 mins (this is only a recommendation, but one I agree with).

 2. Practice Tests – Practice Charts

You can get the IELTS Cambridge Test books from local education bookshops or Amazon, which contain real tests published by IELTS.

I also have a collection of Sample Charts, Diagrams etc for you to practice at home with. Click here: SAMPLE PRACTICE CHARTS FOR WRITING TASK 1

3. Task 1 Band Scores and Marking Criteria

Understand the band scores for each criterion in writing task 1. The IELTS examiner will mark you on:

  • Task Achievement (25%)
  • Coherence and Cohesion (25%)
  • Vocabulary (25%)
  • Grammatical Range and Accuracy (25%)

Task Achievement relates to key features, accurate information and not getting lost in too much detail It includes finishing the task.

Coherence & Cohesion is about the structure of your report. Your paragraphs, your flow of information and also the use of linking words.

Vocabulary needs to be flexible but most importantly, appropriate to the task. For example, line graphs are typically vocabulary rich reports. You must know a variety of specific words relating to line graphs. This is not the case wit bar charts and tables which depend on the topic. Click here: for Vocabulary for Line Graphs 

You also need to know what will cause your score to go up or go down depending on each of the above marking criteria. This way, you’ll know for sure what you must do and what you must avoid. Click here: WRITING TASK 1 BAND SCORES 5-8 EXPLAINED

4. Types of Task 1

Learn the 6 main types of charts that can be given in writing task 1 (maps, diagrams, bar charts, tables, line graphs and pie charts). You should practice writing reports for all types of task 1 by using sample IELTS charts. It is also possible to get a combination of two types, for example a bar chart with a pie chart.

5. Introduction Paragraph

Practice writing the introduction statement. Here are two examples, which one do you think it best?

  1. Here we can see that the graph represented information regarding the number of sales of two companies in two years
  2. The chart illustrates the number of sales of two companies (Marks Ltd and Bumper Store) in 2000 and 2010.

Answers

The second introduction statement is best. The first example contains non-academic language (Here we can see …”) and also does not contain enough information about the companies or which years.

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The introduction is usually very quick to write and quite formulaic (standard) in content. Here’s a link to see how to write an introduction for a bar chart.

6. Overviews for Writing Task 1

Practice identifying key features for all kinds of charts. The key features make up the content of the overview which is the most essential paragraph in your task 1 report. The key features for most charts are the highest and lowest categories as well as the most significant differences between categories. However, for diagrams the key stages can be harder to identify so here a link to a sample introduction and overview for an IELTS diagram. Many students get confused whether to have a conclusion or an overview – make sure you get it right.

7. Vocabulary

Get a list of useful vocabulary for each type of writing task. This is particularly important for line graphs, maps and pie charts. The line graph is the type of writing task 1 which has the biggest range of possible vocabulary that can be used. Here’s a link to vocabulary for line graphs.

To get a good score in writing task 1, it is important to use a range of words which means  you need to paraphrase when possible. However, as mistakes can cause you to lose points, it is important not to take chances with your vocabulary. Spelling is also checked so make sure you don’t make mistakes with your spelling.

8. Grammar

To get a good score, you will also need to work on complex sentence structures. For students aiming for band score 6 and above, this is essential. Luckily sentence structures for task 1 can be learnt and then adapted to fit each individual task  (to some extent). Here’s a link to the 4 main sentence structures for a line graph. Along with grammar is accuracy. The more mistakes you make the lower your score will be so getting rid of common errors is important. Here is a link to spotting grammar mistakes for a pie chart. If you have frequent errors, you may get band score 5 for grammar.

9. Structure for Writing Task 1

You need to make sure you structure your report correctly as the examiner will pay attention to the organisation of information and paragraphing. Here’s a link to the structure for IELTS writing task 1 report. Make sure you follow this as it is easy to get a good score for organisation. Structure and linking devices are part of the criterion of Coherence and Cohesion which makes up 25% of your marks.

10. Linking Devices

Linking is also very important. You will need to show the examiner a range of linking devices that connect information together and compare information in a coherent way. Again, linking is very easy to learn so make sure you pay attention to this. Different charts use different linkers so make sure you review each type of task to see the best linking devices to use.

11. Model Answers for IELTS Writing Task 1

Follow safe models. There are a lot of sample answers for you to follow on the internet, but following a safe model which fulfills the requirement set by IELTS is essential. Here’s a link to a complete lesson on how to write a pie chart report paragraph by paragraph.

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IELTS Reading Question Types: Information & Tips

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A List of 14 Types of IELTS Reading Questions that can appear in your reading test with useful links and tips. In IELTS reading, you will have only one hour to read 3 passages and answer 40 questions. These questions are always divided into different types of questions which you must complete. You must know all the different types of IELTS reading questions so that you can build familiarity and develop techniques.

In order to prepare well for your test, you must make sure that you practice each type of IELTS reading question. Knowing how to tackle each type of question will save you valuable time in your reading test – can time is your worst enemy to conquer.

You’ll find links to some free practice lessons and tips below for each question type. You should also use the IELTS Cambridge test books which contain real past test papers published by IELTS.

IELTS Reading Question Types List & Tips

1. Matching Headings Questions: IELTS Reading

  • Task: Choose a heading from the list which matches a section or paragraph in the passage
  • Skills:
    • understanding the aim of a section
    • identifying the difference between a main idea and supporting points
    • understanding aims of paragraphs and sections
    • understanding general content of paragraphs or sections
  • Tips
    • read the headings before you read the passage
    • there are often more headings than you need
    • analyse the headings before trying to match them to sections or paragraphs
    • answers are often numerals (i, ii, iii, iv etc) – read instructions carefully to check
    • answers do not come in order
  • Matching Heading Practice Lesson
  • All FREE Reading Practice Lessons

2. True False Not Given / Yes No Not Given Questions: IELTS Reading

  • Task: Decide if the information or writer’s opinion in the question statements can be found in the passage
  • Skills:
    • identifying specific information in the passage
    • scanning and understanding information (T/F/NG questions)
    • understanding the opinions of the writer (Y/N/NG questions)
  • Tips
    • Understand the meaning of each answer
      • yes / true = the same information is found in the passage
      • no / false = the opposite information is found in the passage
      • not given = the information is not found in the passage
    • paraphrase the statements before trying to locate the answers
    • answers come in order
  • True, False Not Given Practice
  • Yes, No Not Given Practice
  • All FREE Reading Practice Lessons

3. Matching Paragraph Information Questions: IELTS Reading

  • Task: Matching the information given in the question with information found in one of the paragraphs in the passage.
  • Skills:
    • identifying specific information
    • scanning for information
  •  Tips:
    • paraphrase the information in the question
    • find the information in the passage
    • answers do not come in order
    • the answer is often a letter (A, D, C, D…) – read instructions carefully to check
    • not all paragraphs may be used
  • Matching Paragraph Information Practice Lessons
  • All FREE Reading Practice Lessons

4. Summary Completion Questions: IELTS Reading

  • Task: Completing a summary by filling in the gaps using words from the passage or words given in a box
  • Skills:
    • scanning for specific information in the passage
    • understanding ideas and supporting points
    • selecting appropriate words
  • Tips:
    • identify the type of word needed for each gap (noun/verb/adjective etc)
    • locate the information in the passage in order to choose the right word
    • if you choose words from the passage, check how many words can be used for each answer
    • answers usually come in order
    • the summary must be grammatically correct which can help you in choosing the right word for the gap
  • Summary Completion Practice Lesson
  • All FREE Reading Practice Lessons

5. Sentence Completion Questions: IELTS Reading

  • Task: Completing sentences by filling in the gap with words from the passage
  • Skills:
    • scanning for specific information
    • selecting appropriate words
    • understanding information in the passage
  • Tips:
    • identify the type of word needed for each gap (noun/verb/adjective etc)
    • locate the information in the passage in order to choose the right word
    • the sentences must be grammatically correct which can help you in choosing the right word for the gap
    • check how many words can be used for each answer
    • answers usually come in order
  • Sentence Completion Practice Lesson
  • All FREE Reading Practice Lessons

6. Multiple Choice Questions: IELTS Reading

  • Task: Choose the correct answer to a question or the correct ending to a sentence from usually 3 or 4 possible options.
  • Skills:
    • scanning for specific Information
    • understanding information in the passage
  • Tips:
    • paraphrase the information in the question and options
    • locate the precise information in the passage
    • answers come in order
    • answers are usually letters (A,B,C or D) – read the instructions carefully to check
  • Multiple Choice Practice Lesson
  • All FREE Reading Practice Lessons

7. List Selection: IELTS Reading

  • Task: Choose the correct option from a list of words, information or names. This differs from multiple choice because the questions all relate to only one long list of possible answers.
  • Skills:
    • scanning for information
    • understanding information in the passage
    • identifying ideas relating to others
  • Tips:
    • read through the list and prepare paraphrases
    • read through the questions and identify key words
    • locate the information in the passage
    • answers come in order
    • answers are usually letters (A-G) – read the instructions carefully to check

8. Choosing a Title: IELTS Reading

  • Task: Choosing the most appropriate title from a list for the whole passage
  • Skills:
    • identifying aims of a passage
    • distinguishing between detail and main aims
  • Tips
    • look at the differences between the possible titles
    • pay attention to the opening paragraphs and closing paragraphs of the passage
    • don’t spend too much time on this question – it is only worth one point
  • Choosing a Title Practice
  • All FREE Reading Practice Lessons

9. Classification / Categorisation Questions in IELTS Reading

  • Task: Decide which category the information in a statement belongs to from a list. IELTS call this question: Matching Features.
  • Skills:
    • locating information in the passage
    • categorising information
  • Tips:

10. Matching Sentence Endings: IELTS Reading

  • Task: Incomplete sentences with a list of possible endings. You must choose which ending is correct from the given in a list.
  • Skills:
    • locating information in the passage
    • understanding information
  • Tips:
    • read through the sentences and then read through the possible endings
    • prepare paraphrases
    • find information in the passage
    • choose the best ending to match the information in the passage
    • the completed sentence must be grammatically correct
    • sentence beginnings follow the order of information the passage
    • answers are usually letters (A-G) – read instructions carefully to check
    • there are usually more endings given than you need
  • Matching Sentence Endings Practice Lesson
  • All FREE Reading Practice Lessons

11. Table Completion: IELTS Reading

  • Task: Completing the table using the correct word from the passage.
  • Skills:
    • locating specific information in the passage
    • choosing appropriate words
    • understanding details
  • Tips:
    • read the column headings in the table
    • identify the type of word needed for each part of the table
    • scan the passage for information
    • answers are often located in a specific part of the passage
    • check how many words you can use for the answer
  • Passage Coming Soon

12. Flow Chart Completion Questions: IELTS Reading

  • Task: Completing the flow chart using the correct words from the passage.
  • Skills:
    • locating specific information in the passage
    • choosing appropriate words
    • understanding details and order of information
  • Tips:
    • identify the type of word needed for each part of the flow chart
    • scan the passage for information
    • answers do not always come in order
    • use the direction of the arrows and boxes to follow the order of information in the chart
    • select the appropriate words from the passage
    • check the number of words that can be used for each answer
  • Passage Coming Soon

13. Diagram Completion Questions: IELTS Reading

  • Task: Labelling a diagram
  • Skills:
    • locating information in the passage
    • relating the information to the diagram
    • choosing appropriate words
  • Tips
    • identify the type of word needed for the answer (noun / verb etc)
    • find the information in the passage
    • the information is usually located in one specific paragraph or two in the passage
    • check how many words you can use for the answer
    • answer do not always come in order

14. Short Answer Questions: IELTS Reading

  • Task: Answering questions regarding details in the passage.
  • Skills:
    • locating information in the passage
    • understanding detail and specific information
  • Tips:
    • identify the type of words you need for each answer (noun,verb etc)
    • paraphrase vocabulary in the questions
    • scan the passage to locate information
    • check how many words you can use for the answers
    • answers come in order
  • Short Answer Questions Practice Lesson
  • All FREE Reading Practice Lessons

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