IELTS has four parts:
|
Number of
sections
|
Number of total
items
|
Time allowed
|
Listening
|
4 sections
|
40 items
|
30 minutes + 10 minutes
transfer time
|
Reading
|
3 sections
|
40 items
|
60 minutes
|
Writing
|
2 tasks
|
150 and a 250 word
piece
|
60 minutes
|
Speaking
|
3 parts
|
|
11 to 14 minutes
|
Overview of the
listening test
·
The Listening test is the first part of the
IELTS examination and consists of four recorded sections. The level of
difficulty increases through the paper.
·
There are 10 questions in each section
and you will be given time to read these questions before you listen to each
part. The question types vary and focus on a variety of different listening
skills (completing a form, chart or diagram, selecting pictures which represent
what you have heard, note-taking exercises, and multiple-choice questions). You
may find that each listening section is divided into two parts.
·
There is a range of topics and tasks which test
your comprehension skills, e.g.
o
Listening for specific information, such as dates
and place names
o
Listening for detail
o
Understanding gist
o
Understanding speaker attitude/opinion
·
Section 1: you will hear a dialogue between
two speakers in a social or semi-official context. One of the speakers
may be seeking factual information such as names or dates which you will
have to identify or note down. Alternatively you may have to select the right
picture, fill in a form or complete some notes. Only in section one of the
test, you will hear the example plays twice
·
Section 2: You
will hear one person giving a talk on a topic of general interest. As
well as listening for specific information, you may be asked to interpret the
speaker's ideas. You will therefore need to follow the talk carefully and be
prepared to separate the main ideas from the supporting detail.
·
Section 3: you will have to follow a conversation
with more than two speakers based on academic topics or course-related
situations. It is important that you are able to distinguish between the
different speakers as well as understand what they are saying.
·
Section 4: a university-style lecture
or talk.
How to approach the
listening test:
1.
Before you listen, read the question carefully and note
how many words/options you must
write/pick
2.
Look at the questions and list of answers, and underline any key words that you think will
help to decide what sort of information you should listen out for and what type
of word is needed (e.g. a noun, a verb, an adjective or a number). You may also
rephrase the question/statement and the list of answers in your own
words (if possible).
3.
As you listen, answer the
questions. Don't panic if you miss one question. Look ahead and
concentrate on the next one.
4.
Wait until the end of the test to transfer your
answers. You have ten minutes for this which is plenty of time. When you
transfer your answer to the answer sheet, make sure that you follow the same
numbering as the questions on the question paper
Overview of the reading
test:
·
The test has three reading passages and
each of the passages is accompanied by a set of questions.
·
There may be more than one type of question in
each set. For example, you may be asked to find detailed information in a text
in order to complete sentences; you may have to identify views and attitudes
within a text; you may have to understand how something works and complete a
diagram or chart.
·
Particular areas you should focus on in your
practice are:
o
Using synonyms, summary words etc. to
help you locate information.
o
Different ways of expressing the same ideas
or information in a text.
o
Reading skills such as skimming and
scanning for information.
How to approach the
reading test:
1.
Read the title, sub-headings and number the paragraphs (if not already
numbered)
2.
Read the paragraphs in the order they come; skim
through the text and underline the key vocabulary (names, numbers, locations,
dates, and signpost words). You should remember that your main aim is to
locate the answers to the questions. You do not need to read in the same way
you would if you needed to memorise
something.
3.
After reading each one or two paragraphs, check the
questions (read carefully and underline the instructions and the rubric,
skim through the questions and look at the diagram or the chart if any) and write
down the answers that you know in the answer sheet. Repeat this step till
you finish answering the questions. In note-completing, you will be expected to
complete the notes using words that are printed in the passage when the
instructions state that this is required. If you do not do this and you use
words that are not given in the passage, you may be penalised.
Overview of writing
task 1:
·
In the writing task 1, you are given a task
based on some graphic or pictorial information. You are expected to write
a descriptive report of at least 150 words on the information
provided. You are advised to spend approximately 20 minutes on this task
(15 minutes for writing and five minutes for counting words and making
corrections).
·
You could get any of the following or a
variation on these formats: line graph, pie chart, bar chart, table, diagram
of how something works or diagram of a process. There may be more than one
of these in the task.
How to approach writing
task 1:
1.
Decide about the main features and the vocabulary
and tenses you will use, and plan your answer as follows: a) introductory
paragraph, b) three paragraphs on the main features and c) concluding paragraph
(general comment on the graph). Never write your answer in bullet points. You
will lose marks if you do this. Always use continuous text and always
use paragraphs to organize your points
2.
Introduce your answer by stating the purpose
of the graph (in case of graphic information) or the overall function
of the process (in case of pictorial information). The diagram labels often
give you names and other words but you need to produce your own words,
such as verbs, in the right tense and voice (active or passive). Examples:
§ The top (bottom) line graph (bar chart) (pie chart) describes
the changes (growth) in the number (amount) of… between… and… (throughout…, …
& …)
§ The table compares the changes in the…
§ The diagram illustrates the process by which… is produced
(how a….is used to…)
3.
Write around three paragraphs on the main features.
Each paragraph should give complete information about a feature using linking
structures to connect your ideas and comparing data where relevant.
§
Examples of the linking structures
used to connect your ideas and compare data:
o According to this graph, there was…
o Looking at the table in
more detail, however, we can see that…
o It is also noteworthy
that… whereas (whilst) (while)…
o In the same way (Likewise)
(Similarly), the…
o On the other hand,
however, the …
o Nevertheless
(Nonetheless) (However) (Yet) (Even so) (Conversely), the…
o N.B.
Using appropriate linkers is important, but don't start every sentence with
one. Remember that words like "this, the, which
and it" and comparative/superlative structures also link ideas.
§
Examples of the structures used in describing
facts and figures:
o Five out of ten students…
o Approximately (nearly) 50 percent of students…
o Relatively small percentage of
o The majority of
o A minority of
o Just more than (over) half of
o Just under a thousand (nearly one thousand)
o Adverbs: Considerably, Slightly, Relatively, significantly
§
Examples of the structures used in describing
trends in line graph:
o Shows an upward trend (a rise form…to…) (increases two-fold
form…to…) between…&…
o Reaches a peak (an all-time peak) at…in…
o After this, it shows a stable pattern (reaches a plateau at
around…) (Remains stable at around…) throughout…&…
o Shows a downward trend (a gradual decline) between…&…when
numbers fell from…to…
o Hits the lowest point (a trough) in…when it fell down to
about (around)…
o Shows some fluctuation (variation)
o The second (third) highest (lowest) figure (value) is…
o Adjectives/ adverbs: Sharp (sharply), Dramatic
(dramatically), Gradual (gradually), Considerable (considerably), Significant
(significantly), Slight (slightly), Gentle (gently), Relative (relatively)
o N.B.
Use the present perfect tense when you are describing a trend that began in the
past and is still continuing. Sentences like this may include
"since". For example: temperatures have
risen worldwide since 2000
o N.B.
The word figure(s) can be used as a
substitute for numbers & percentages and so it is a useful reference word
for avoiding repetition
§
Examples of the structures used in describing
processes:
o
The process consists
of …stages.
o First, the…is produced by…when it…
o
This is then…and/or…. before/after making…
o Finally, it is…
4.
Write a concluding paragraph that gives a general
comment on the graph. Example:
§
Overall (In general)
the key points to note are that…and (together with)…
Overview of writing
task 2:
·
The second task is more demanding. You are
expected to produce a written argument on a given topic and to organise your answer clearly,
giving some examples to support your points. You will have to write at least 250
words and, as Task 2 is longer than Task 1, you are advised to spend
approximately 40 minutes on this task and 20 minutes on the first task.
·
You can’t impress by copying words and phrases
from the question paper. Try to use your own words at all times. Don’t bother
learning essays by heart to use in the exam. Examiners are looking out for this
kind of response and will mark you down for it.
·
Note that it is
poor style to repeatedly use certain linkers. Native speakers frequently use
very simple words to link ideas together like this, these/those and such.
·
It is important to demonstrate your ability to
control complex sentences and to link your ideas but don't overdo it! A good
piece of writing contains a balance of
simple and complex structures and not every sentence has to be
linked. Sometimes a short, simple sentence can have a great deal of impact.
·
Leave time to check your answer for careless
mistakes at the end. If you can, check for spelling mistakes, verb and subject
agreement, singular/plural nouns, and the flow of your writing.
How to approach writing
task 2:
1.
Read the question and analyse the task to see how many parts
you have to write about. Underline the key words that you may use to
create your ideas.
2.
Develop
ideas by brainstorming (if the topic
has two sides, make a list of pros and cons). Decide on the main arguments and
supporting ideas and your position. Plan your answer as
follows: a) introductory paragraph, b) five paragraphs on the main arguments
and c) concluding paragraph.
3.
Introduce your answer by
re-phrasing the question or posing a new question that you then explore in the main body of your
answer. An introduction can include a sentence stating your position on
the topic (but this is not essential).
§
Examples of the structures used to rephrase
the question (useful for both writing and speaking):
o
It is highly
fashionable in some circles to argue that…
o
There is always some
controversy over whether…or whether…
o
The relative
importance of…is a frequent topic of discussion when people try to
explain…
§
Examples of structures used to pose a new
question:
o It is highly fashionable in some circles to argue that…
However I feel the question is not whether…but whether…
4.
Write about five paragraphs on your main arguments.
Each paragraph should go in the following sequence: main argument, explaining, supporting
ideas, concessions, then new point in new paragraph and so on (the examples
provided are useful for both writing and speaking):
§
Examples of structures used to introduce your
main arguments plainly and forcefully:
o In my opinion, far and away the most important…is
that
o Generally, I agree with the argument/view that
o I firmly believe that
o There is little evidence to support the argument that
o I tend to disagree with the argument that…This fails
to take into consideration the
o
I am highly sceptical (doubtful) about the argument that
§
Examples of structures used to explain what you
mean more clearly (defining/explaining):
o By this I mean that…
o In other words,…
o To be more precise,…
o Here I'm (not)
referring to…
§ Examples
of structures used to Link your main argument with supporting ideas (examples/reasons/
comparisons/personal experiences):
o A good example of
this is…/ Take, for example,…
o For instance,…
o My main reason for saying this is
that…
o In comparison
o In my personal experience,…
§ Examples
of structures used to admit
that there are arguments that differ from your own (making concessions):
o Even though this is a
popular view, not everyone takes such an approach.
o In this field it is
arguable that…
o On the other hand,
o Admittedly,… /Obviously,…
§ Examples
of structures used to show that you're making a new point particularly at the
beginning of each new paragraph:
o In addition there is the
issue of the
o Another possible (major)
cause
is
o The second key problem (question) is…
o The second important reason why I am against
(argument against)…is that…
o In consequence,
o Furthermore,…/Moreover,...
o However,…/ Nevertheless,…/Nonetheless,.../even
so,.../on the other hand,.../Yet,…
5.
Write a concluding paragraph that sum up your
argument and re-state your position. Examples:
§ Consequently, for the
reasons explained above I think that (I feel strongly that) the advantages of…
are far
outweighed by the disadvantages.
§
In the final analysis,
from an economic (a social) perspective, I think that…
§
In conclusion,…/to sum up,…./overall,…
Overview of the
speaking test:
·
IELTS speaking test consists of 3 parts in total
11-14 minutes as follows:
|
Time
|
Interaction
|
Part 1
Introduction and
interview
|
4-5 minutes
|
The examiner will begin
with some introductory questions to which you should reply briefly and
clearly.
Then you will be asked a
few questions, on familiar topics, to which you should reply as fully as
possible. The first question is usually about your home town or your
studies/work. Then you may get questions on any general, everyday topics,
such as: reading material, forms of transport, types of building, weather,
types of celebration, hobbies/interests, types of entertainment and types of
scenery.
|
Part 2
Individual long turn
|
3-4 minutes
|
The candidate is asked
to give a short talk on a topic written on a card. The examiner will
hand you some paper and a pencil to make notes.
The candidate has a
minute to prepare and then speaks on the topic without stopping for 1-2
minutes. After you have given your talk, the
examiner may ask you one or two related follow-up questions which you should answer briefly
|
Part 3
Two-way discussion
|
4-5 minutes
|
The candidate is
presented with more abstract questions broadly linked to the topic
introduced in Part 2, and is encouraged to engage in extensive discussion
|
·
Do not rush
– Begin with an opening expression to give yourself a little thinking time
·
Unlike
the writing paper, when you are speaking it is not necessary to give
clear strong opinions.
·
Answer each question directly.
Don't talk about something unrelated to the examiner's question.
·
Give a full response, take the
initiative, make more than one point, try to explain the reasons
for your opinions and give examples from your experience.
·
Vary your vocabulary and structures.
·
Look at the examiner, make the talk
interesting and lively, but stick to the purpose of the conversation.
·
Speak
loudly enough for the
examiner to hear you and try to pronounce your words clearly.
·
Pay
attention to the way you emphasise words and syllables within words, and try not to speak in a
monotonous voice.
·
You can prepare by collecting some phrases
to help you start your talk and move on from point to point. This will
help to make you feel more confident and relaxed too. However, don't learn
answers by heart – it can be very obvious.
·
If you don't understand the examiner, you
can ask him or her to repeat the question or explain a word, e.g. sorry, could you repeat the question, please? Or could you explain what …means?
·
If you're not sure about the answer, you
can use expressions that give you some time to think about how you will answer
a question, e.g. I'm not sure what I think about…,
let me think…, I really don't know/can't remember, it depends on…, I tend to
think that…, on the whole, it seems that…
·
Don’t worry if you realise you’ve made a mistake. It’s
OK to correct yourself.
How to approach speaking
part 1 (general questions about everyday situations):
1.
Listen to the question forms and the words
that the examiner uses. These will help you form your answer.
2.
Begin with an opening expression to give yourself a
little thinking time. Examples (useful for all
parts of speaking test):
§
Well, actually...
§
Generally speaking …
§
On the whole, it
seems to me that…
§
I tend to think
that/prefer…
§
I firmly (strongly)believe
that
§
If you're not sure about the answer:
o That's
a difficult question...
o I
haven't really thought about it much
o I
really don't know/can't remember
o I'm
not sure what I think about…
o I
haven't really got a strong opinion...
o I honestly
have no idea but...In my opinion, far and away the most important…is that
o Let
me think…
3.
Reflect on the question itself / explore the
issues raised in the question and clarify exactly what you are going to
answer / what the question means. –
this is more important in part 2 and 3 – but even in part 1 the questions are
often so vague that you need to clarify them before giving an answer. Example: It depends …
4.
Try to make 2 – or 3 - short points in your
answers. Don’t speak in long written style sentences and do not give a one word
answer. Do not use strange vocabulary and try to use natural language.
5.
Examples of phrases used in answering questions
about everyday situations (speaking part 1):
§
Do you prefer to have one particular friend or a
group of friends?
o I
don’t know...
o I
don’t think I have one “best” friend...I have a small group of really close
friends…and then a much wider group.
§
How do you usually contact your friends?
o Actually, I don’t really
have a “usual way” – these days I use so many different ways –
mobile, landline, text, Facebook, BBS (I have a Blackberry) MSN – I just use
whichever is most convenient at the time.
o It depends on which
friends
– with my friends here I usually use my mobile or text – but with friends in
other countries – and some of my best friends are abroad at the moment – maybe
Facebook, or email – but I NEVER make international calls!
§
In your country did people in the past keep
in contact in the same ways as they do today?
o It
varies a lot – and it depends on how far “in the past” you mean. Lots of
young people use Facebook – but my parents don’t. Everyone has a mobile – and
they have for at least the last 10 years. Of course, 30 years ago – they
didn’t.
o The
mobile phone had an enormous impact
on XXX society – everyone has and we can keep in touch -and text each
other – at any time. That’s the
single biggest change over the last 20 years.
§
Do you enjoy studying English?
o Sometimes
yes – other times no – but I keep going because I know it’s important for
me.
o Not
really – I want to be able to speak it – but I’m not so keen on the
studying part.
o I
like speaking – but doing grammar practice is incredibly boring for me.
§
What do you do?
o I’m a teacher – I teach English to foreign
students – mainly people going to university here.
o I’m
a teacher now but I used to work in an advertising agency (a long time ago).
o I’m
a teacher – I used to own a reasonably sized language school in London (not any
more).
§
Have you got any brothers or sisters?
o I’ve
got a brother and a sister – older brother and younger sister – so I’m the
middle one – it’s the best position I think
o I’ve
got a younger brother – he’s about 2 and a half years younger than me – so it’s
quite a small age gap – and I haven’t got a sister.
o I
haven’t got any actually – mm I’m an only child – I think it would have been
nice to.. to have a brother or sister but.. but I haven’t.
o Actually
I’ve got three sisters and three brothers... it was a ... It’s a really big
family... I’m the youngest... mmm and there’s a ... I think a 20 year gap
between me and the oldest.
§
What kind of house do you live in?
o It’s
a modern detached house – it’s got four bedrooms (but one of them is
tiny).
o Now
I’m living in a tiny bed-sit – there’s a communal kitchen and
four of us have to share a bathroom.
§
What do you like doing most with your friends?
o Give yourself a little thinking time
– “Well… ” “Actually...” “Well, actually…” “That’s difficult to say
because…”
o
Reflect
on the question itself:
·
This is useful because for most people
there isn’t one thing they like doing most with all their friends.
·
It depends on which friend…
·
I like doing different things with different
friends...
·
There isn’t really one thing I like doing most.
o
Give
an answer
·
Well,
it depends on which friends – I like doing different things with different
friends. But one of the things I really enjoy is playing football
- I play in Corporation Park with a group of friends from university every
Sunday.
§
What was your favourite subject at school?
o Give yourself a little thinking time
–
·
“Well… ” “Actually...” “Well, actually…” “That’s
difficult to say because…”
o
Reflect
on the question itself:
·
I didn’t really have a favourite subject…
·
My favourite subject changed from year to year...
o
Give
an answer
·
Well, actually, I didn’t really have one favourite subject. I didn’t
like the sciences very much but I enjoyed all the Arts subjects – especially
History and English.
§
What are you doing in England?
o I’m
studying for an MA in Finance at Manchester University – I finish in 2 month’s
time.
o I’m
studying for an MA in Finance at Manchester University – I want to work in
international banking when I finish.
§ Has your country changed much since
you were a child?
o not
really
o yes
and no
o That’s
a difficult question to answer clearly – in some ways yes, but in others no
– for example, when I was young divorce was still quite unusual in the
UK – now nearly half of all marriages end in divorce. This is a huge change.
On the other hand people’s basic goals haven’t changed - a
home, a job, a happy relationship. These basic aspects of society haven’t
changed.
o Actually
yes. It has changed enormously. A good example is the family. Now far
more people get divorced, far more people live together when they are not
married and far more gay people live together as couples. This is a huge change.
When I was a child none of my friends had divorced parents – now I’m divorced,
my brother is divorced, and most of my friends are divorced too!
§
What kind of book do you like?
o That’s
a difficult question for me to answer because...
o At
the moment I really enjoy...
o A
little while ago...
o For
example, recently I’ve…
o What
is really great about (him) is that…
o He
learnt (Dutch) so that he could...
o At
one point…
o He’s
a heroic kind of person… I think it’s possible to get some inspiration...
o Though
actually…
How to approach speaking
part 2 (short talk about a simple topic):
1.
Use the preparation time wisely by jotting down some
key ideas (but do not try to write out a speech).
2.
Introduce your topic clearly. Below is a list of
possible ways to introduce this topic:
§ I'd like to talk about
§ I've chosen to talk about
§ I'm going to talk about
3. It is easier if you link the topic with a personal
example or story.
4.
Examples of phrases used in answering questions
about a simple topics (speaking part 2):
§
General (explaining how do you feel)
o What
I like about…is that
o The
reason why I enjoy…is that
o The
reason I don't like…is that
o One
interesting thing is that
o One
of the good things about … is being able to
o One
of the bad things about…is not being able to
o One
of the problems with …is that
§
Consider using the following adjectives to
improve the way you describe things: impressive,
depressing, informative, enjoyable, complicated, relaxing, scary, sociable,
tiring, breathtaking
§
Describe a person.
o He
was a hugely positive (negative) role model because...
o Positive:
“ambitious people”
·
refuse to give up
·
don’t settle for second best
·
he has faced up to problems
·
not quitters
·
have plenty of get up and go
·
set themselves ambitious goals
o Positive:
“cheerful”
·
always have a smile on their faces
·
don’t complain about everything
·
Always go away feeling happier than when I
arrived...
·
see the positive side of situations
·
they can brighten up a room
·
don’t let little problems get them down
·
make other people feel good just to be with them
o Negative:
“negative people”
·
always complaining
·
always see the problem not the solution
·
never have a good word to say about anyone
·
something is always wrong
o Negative:
“self-centered people”
·
always talking about themselves
·
extremely boring company
·
always thinking about themselves
·
not interested in other people
§
Describe a party that you enjoyed.
o Probably
the party I most enjoyed was at my brother’s house – it was his wife’s
birthday – and a lot of their friends were there. It was a normal party
– a lot of drinking and eating, loud
music – but the reason why I enjoyed it so much – and remember it so well –
was that it was the first time I met David who is now probably my
closest friend. He has been a hugely positive role model for me because
he has had a lot of problems but always faced up to them with a smile on his
face. When I met him he was not very well – but I would never have known it
because he was so cheerful – enthusiastic for life. We started chatting about
work – but I quickly realised
that he had a lot to teach me. Since then I’ve had some problems – and
he’s been able to give me helpful advice – and when I see him I always go
away feeling happier than when I arrived. One time…
§
What kinds of national celebrations do
you have in your country?
o Give yourself a bit of time.
“Well, actually..”
o Reflect on the question. “I
don’t think there are many in Britain….
o Attempt an answer. “but I
suppose Christmas is the biggest one – but it means different things to
different people.”
o Expand. “for some people it is still an important
religious time, but for most it is just a time to be with your family give,
presents and eat a lot.”
o Example. “We always spend it together as a
family. We give presents and for Christmas lunch we have turkey with
brussels sprouts and roast potatoes – the traditional food – followed by
Christmas pudding and micce pies. It’s the only time of the year that the whole
family is together so I really enjoy it.
§
Tell me about the main industries in your
country.
o I’m
not sure whether it’s a main industry – but I know that financial services
are very important in the UK – hundreds of thousands of people have extremely
well-paid jobs in the City of London – not just banking but all the services
they need like lawyers, accountants and so on.
o I
really don’t know about the country – but in my city chemicals are an
important industry and there are at least 3 big companies which make a whole
range of different products – my father works for one of them.
§
Describe something healthy you enjoy
doing.
o I
feel free as a bird
o the
stresses and strains of everyday life
o the
sheep grazing in the fields
o feel
my feet pounding a steady rhythm on the road
o I
feel fresh as a daisy.
o And there are more: even ordinary
phrases which are natural will impress – “I do it by myself” “in the
countryside which is surrounding the house where I live”
§
Where are you from? How long have you been here?
Do you like it? Are you here by yourself?
o Well,
about 6 months, and I’m probably going to stay for 2 years more.
o Yes,
I like it a lot...but... em.. the only thing I really don’t like is the
weather.
§
Describe a game or sport you enjoy
playing? You should say: what kind of game or sport it is, who you play it with,
where you play it and explain why you enjoy playing it.
o Technique
·
pattern: idea - expand - example
·
contrast with your everyday / work / normal life
·
think about physical / mental / social reasons
o Language:
·
General:
-
Probably the game which I most enjoy playing
in my spare time is...
-
One of my favourite sports / things to do is...
-
I think there are two (three / is one) main
reasons why I really enjoy it, (and the first one is...)
-
One of the things I like most about it is...
-
It's a complete change of pace...
-
It's a complete change from my everyday
activities...
·
Physical: (...the physical side)
-
It's really energetic...
-
I can burn off all my surplus energy...
-
I can work off my frustrations...
-
I can keep fit / build some muscles / burn off
some calories / tone up my body
-
It's a really good thing for me physically, I
think, that at the weekend...
-
When you are (playing tennis) you can't think
about anything else...
-
(... and the other reason why I really like it
is...)
·
Mental:
-
I can get rid of my frustrations...
-
It's mentally demanding...
-
It's a good mental discipline...
-
It's very engrossing / absorbing / interesting...
·
Social:
-
This is my chance to really get to know
different people... and I absolutely love it.
-
It's a good chance to meet a completely
different group of people from my work friends / colleagues
-
It's a really good way to meet people.
-
There are people from all sorts of backgrounds
and jobs.
·
Example: Probably the game which I most
enjoy playing in my spare time is tennis. And I play it at my local club with
all different kinds of people who go there because we have a tennis league... and
we all play each other... So I’m not just playing with one person... I play
with a lot of different people...
And I think there are two main reasons why I really enjoy
it – and the first one is the physical side because it’s really
energetic...I’m running around the court... hmm.. at the end of it I feel
exhausted...I can burn off all the surplus energy and I can keep fit at the
same time.. because during the week I’m sitting on a chair in my office. I
walk to get a cup of coffee... probably nothing else and it’s a really big
change and a really good thing for me physically I think that at the weekend I
go and for a couple of hours anyway.. I’m running around a tennis court...
thinking about a tennis ball .. I don’t think of anything else.. just hitting the
ball .. and trying my best to win the point...hmm sometimes I do and sometimes
I don’t.
And the other reason why I really like it is because of
the social side. It’s a really good way to meet people and they’re people...
a completely different group of people from my work friends...
And that’s great because at work I’m dealing with
people who are doing... they’re all accountants the same kind of people as
me... and this is my chance to really get to know different people.. and
er I absolutely love it…
(280 words)
-
§
Describe a place - for
example, London
o a
cosmopolitan city:
-
people from all over the world
-
in the street I can hear so
many different languages
-
bustling streets full of colour and life
-
so many people coming to try fulfill their
dreams
-
exciting and vibrant
-
restaurants serving food from all over the world
-
I can eat food from virtually every country in
the world
o a
city of contrasts:
-
the very rich living side-by-side with the
very poor
-
the businessman in his expensive suit walking
past the tramp in tattered old clothes in the shop doorway
-
veiled women from Saudi Arabia walking down the
street next to young trendy girls in short skirts from China
-
punks with tattoos and piercings sitting on a bus next to a
middle aged couple - who don't even notice them
o it's
a city where you can be yourself
-
it seems tolerant and open to people of all
types
-
a bit scary but at the same time exhilarating
§
Talk about the song and why it is
important to you.
o
Pick a song – write down the name so you don’t forget if you are
nervous
o
Think
about why it is important to you
-
for
example: you remember a great holiday
-
for
example: you met your partner
-
for
example: it reminds you of a great period in your life
o
Then
talk about the story after introducing the song
o Make sure you say something like
“Every time I hear the song I think about……. That’s why it’s important for me.
4.
The follow-up
question will probably only require a
yes or no answer and a couple of other words. We often give short answers in English by simply
repeating the auxiliary verb or the verb to
be or to do which was used in the question. You must use the same
tense as the question. Examples: have you
done this kind of work before? Yes, I have (No, I
haven't), do you know anyone who has done this work? Yes, I do (No, I don't), are you going to study
law at university? Yes, I think I am (yes, I think
so), does it cost much to join the university sports club? No, I don't think it does (No, I don't think so)
How to approach speaking
part 3 (discussion of abstract topic):
1.
Listen to the question forms and the words
that the examiner uses. These will help you form your answer.
2.
Begin with an opening expression to give
yourself a bit of thinking time (see examples
in part 1)
3.
Reflect on the question itself / explore the
issues raised in the question and clarify exactly what you are going to
answer / what the question means.
Example: It depends …
4.
Try to make 2 – or 3 - short points in your
answers. Don’t speak in long written style sentences and do not give a one word
answer. Do not use strange vocabulary and try to use natural language. Here
are some useful strategies for developing ideas:
Think about what other
people might believe
|
Even though some people…I think…
|
Make a direct contrast
or comparison
|
I tend to think that while young people…, older people…
|
Use personal
experience
|
It's hard to say, but in my experience…and so I think…
|
Refer back in time
|
I think in the past it was true that…but nowadays…
|
Refer to the media
|
Newspapers and other media suggest that…but I'm not sure
they're right.
|
Analyse the question
|
I think it depends on the type of person. If…, then…but if…,
then…
|
Agree or disagree
|
Generally I would say that…, but…
|
5. When
you give an opinion, try to back it up by giving a reason for it or by offering
a second point of view. Here are some useful expressions for doing this:
opinion
|
Giving a reason/a second point of view
|
For me…is very important
|
Because...
|
I think…
|
But I can understand that
|
I don't really think much of…
|
On the other hand
|
It all depends on…
|
Personally I believe…
|
Some people feel…
|
But I actually think…
|
6.
Give summary
comment that sum up your argument and re-state your position. Examples:
§ The truth is it’s difficult to generalise – the average is not
necessarily any individual’s experience.
7.
Examples of phrases
used in answering questions about abstract
topics (speaking part 3):
§ What are the typical choices people make at different
stages of their lives?
o Well…I
suppose... (give yourself thinking time)
o ..especially
these days there is much more variety so it is more difficult to say what is
“typical” (reflect on the question – which is always very vaguely worded)
o but
an average person is probably thinking about education in their teens, getting
a job in their 20s and getting married in their 30s … (answer the question –
you could go on to give much more here and an example – but I prefer to
challenge the premise of the question)
o …
but so many people are different that it is difficult to call this “typical” –
I know many people who are getting married and remarried in their 40s –
changing their careers and even going back to university in their 50s – when
this is happening I think it is just untrue to create an “average” and then
call it “typical”.
o For
example….
o The
truth is it’s difficult to generalise
– the average is not necessarily any individual’s experience. (Summary comment)
§ How can games help to unite people?
o Well,
actually that’s a difficult question for me to answer because I don’t think
games do help to unite people. In fact it seems to me that the whole point of
games is that they divide people - into winners and losers. On a
national level sports are used to show off – that’s why countries want the
Olympics and the World Cup. In my opinion this is divisive and mad. Of course
games can be fun – but the fun is defeating, and ideally absolutely crushing
your opponent – lt’s not pretend they are about “uniting people.”
§
In what ways can people in a family be
similar to each other?
o Well,
I suppose that the two main ways are in terms of character and appearance. In
my family, I think that my father and his brother look quite different but they
are similar in character in many ways…
o that
my introduction leads up to an example – this enables me to describe a person:
o …they
are both quite cheerful, extrovert people – they love talking and being with
other people. My uncle, in particular is an extremely positive person –
people always leave him feeling better than when they arrived. I don’t know
where they got this from – but unfortunately I don’t think I’ve inherited it!
o What
kinds of people become famous these days?
§
What kinds of people become famous these
days?
o Well,
it’s difficult to answer because many different kinds of people are famous in
different areas. There are artists who are famous with people who are
interested in art – but unknown by people who have no interest in art. There
are reality TV shows and talent contests – like Big Brother or X factor – where
the contestants are quite “famous” with the viewers – but not with me because I
never watch them. So I don’t think it’s possible to give a clear answer to the
question – many different kinds – I suppose – is the best answer I can give.
§
Should individuals or governments be
responsible for making people’s lifestyle healthy?
o Actually,
for me that’s an easy question to answer – easy because I have strong
views on it: I think it’s none of the government’s business
how people live. If people want to smoke, or drink too much, or watch TV rather
than go to the gym – that’s fine with me. I hate the way the
government spends so much money trying to control people’s lives
§
Where can people in your country get information
about genetic research?
o Well,
I don’t really know – I haven’t really thought about it. It depends
on what kind of information the question means. If it is general
scientific information then I suppose ordinary people can find the information
on the internet – using Google maybe, or Wikipedia. Sometimes there is a story
in the newspapers or on television. I watched a programme a few months
ago about genetically modified crops – it discussed the arguments in
favour of GM and the arguments against it. There were scientists and
people from environmental groups - I think I got a lot of
information from it. I’m certainly in favour of it!
§
Why do some people choose to lead unhealthy
lives?
o Think: Actually, I think it’s impossible to give a
general answer to that question –
o Refer to the question: it
depends on the person - and it depends on what you mean by unhealthy.
o I
think people do things for many different reasons – it’s like saying “Why do
some people read books? – lots of reasons.
o But
more importantly – I think – who decides what is “unhealthy” – if I enjoy
something – it gives me pleasure – and it makes me feel good – I LOVE it – why
is it “unhealthy” – health is about quality not just quantity of life
o Examples:
a.
I read a story the other week about a businessman in my
home town – he was overweight – loved eating drinking and smoking – had a lot
of girlfriends – he was always travelling round the world and going to parties
– he was at a Blackburn Rovers football match after a big lunch with friends –
shouting and cheering – they were winning (unusually) – when he had a massive
heart attack and died. Great life – I think – a healthy way to live in my
opinion.
b.
It seems to me that an unhealthy lifestyle is
much more enjoyable than a healthy one, and that is probably why
people choose it: eating chocolate rather than vegetables, going to bed late
rather than early, and drinking whisky rather than water! I used to enjoy all
of those things, but unfortunately it also means a short life, so I decided to
change. I still go to bed late sometimes, but I have stopped the others.
§
What do most people do in your country to keep
fit?
o Well,
I think it depends on what you mean by “keep fit”. I think that
having a good healthy diet is probably the most important thing that
people do – in my country we eat a lot of fresh fish – caught locally everyday,
and we eat salad with olive oil. Personally, I was shocked when I came
to England to see so many people eating burgers and chips!
o Well,
actually I think that’s a difficult question to answer – I don’t think
there is ONE thing that “most people do”. I think people do
different things and it depends on your age and where you live. I live
near a tennis club and I love playing tennis – so for me and most of my
friends, I suppose that playing tennis is the thing we do – but
that’s not true for “most people” – people are very different.
§
Do you think competitive games are good
or bad for children?
o Think
– Mmmm / Well… / Actually… ? I’m not sure…. / I haven’t really thought about
it….
o Refer
to the question:
·
It depends which game…
·
I think it depends on the child...
·
I think it’s impossible to give a general
answer...
o Use
an example. Well, actually I think it depends on the child – not
all children are the same. Personally I enjoyed them – I was good at
tennis at not very good at football but I didn’t mind. I suppose that
some children don’t like them – but some children don’t like Maths. In
general I think they’re probably good.
§ Modern society is often called “materialistic”.
Why do you think this is?
o I
think they are probably called materialistic because people are interested in
material goods – but I’m absolutely convinced that this it true for all
societies – not just modern ones. In other words – I believe all societies are
materialistic. If people have more things now, it’s because modern society is
richer and more successful, not because people are more interested in “things”
than before.
§
How do you think the Internet will affect buying
patterns in the future?
o Well,
actually, I have absolutely no idea. I suppose that people will buy more things
online but… usually when people try to predict the future they are wrong ...
and I certainly don’t know… I’m convinced that people will still go shopping –
I think people enjoy it – I know I do.
§
What kind of possessions show status in
your country?
o Well,
actually that’s a difficult question for me... because I haven’t really
thought about it very much.. but, I think it’s probably different
for different people. For example, I think for some people er..
having an expensive car – a Lamborghini or a Ferrari – shows status, but for
me… for me it doesn’t. I’m not interested. For me, if somebody has a
great collection of books and er .. something which shows they have a lot of
interests in different subjects.. that’s a very high .. high status for me..
that’s something which I think is ..erm.. something to aspire too. So I
think it’s difficult or impossible to give one simple answer.
§
How has education changed in your country
in the last 10 years?
o Well,
in the case of Britain I think that’s a difficult question to answer because there
haven’t been a lot of changes in the last 10 years.
§
What changes do you foresee in education
in the next 50 years?
o Well,
I think this depends on what we mean by education…
§
Some people think that new technology has
brought more stress than benefits to employed people nowadays. Would you agree
or disagree? Why?
o It
depends on which…” “I think it’s impossible to generalise...”
§
Who tends to enjoy national celebrations
more young people or old people? Why?
o Well, actually I have never really thought about it.
I think it is probably
impossible to say -
at least I don't know.
It depends on which
celebration and which person. Probably children like
Christmas - because they get presents - but older people like Christmas too -
because they see their family and it is a happy time. (And I still like
getting presents even though I'm older). So I think it's impossible to generalise.
§
Do you think children should learn to play a
musical instrument at school?
o Well,
I haven't really thought about it much, but I don't think children should have
to learn a musical instrument. I think it should be optional - they can do
if they want, or not if they don't want.
English Proverbs:
Consider using proverbs in both writing and speaking tests. It is
valuable tool to express your ideas in genuine English manner; however, it
should be used only if appropriate. You may consider using one of the following
introductory phrases:
·
Proverb states that:
·
An English proverb says:
·
May I refer
you to the ancient proverb: ….
·
You know the proverb, and it's true:
·
There is an old
English proverb which
says:
·
In the words of the
old English proverb,
Here are some common English proverbs:
·
Absence makes the
heart grow fonder (but makes the mind forget).
·
Action is the proper fruit of knowledge.
·
The apple never falls far from the tree.
·
Actions speak louder than words.
·
After dinner sit a while, after supper walk a mile.
·
All roads lead to Rome
·
All that glisters is not gold
·
An apple a day keeps the doctor away.
·
As fit as a fiddle.
·
As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another
·
Before criticizing a man, walk a mile in his shoes.
·
Beginning is half done.
·
The belly has no ears.
·
The best of friends need not speak face to face.
·
The best things in life are free.
·
Better late than never.
·
Better the devil you know (than the one you don't).
·
Birds of a feather flock together.
·
Blood is thicker than water.
·
A burnt child dreads the fire.
·
Change is the only constant.
·
Decisions are never good or bad, consequences are.
·
Don't cross a bridge before you come to it
·
Don't take life too seriously; you'll never get out of it alive
·
Doctors make the worst patients
·
Each to his own taste
·
Early to bed and early to rise, makes a man healthy, wealthy and wise
·
Education is a progressive discovering of our own ignorance
·
Education makes machines which act like men and produces men who act like
machines
·
An empty vessel makes the most noise
·
The English are a nation of shopkeepers (Attributed to Napoleon)
·
An Englishman's home is his castle. Variant of "A man's home is his
castle."
·
Everything can be justified until it happens to you.
·
Everything changes; everything stays the same.
·
Everything good in life is either illegal, immoral, or fattening.
·
Failure is the stepping stone for success.
·
The first step to health is to know that we are sick.
·
A friend in need is a friend indeed.
·
Give a dog a bad name and he'll live up to it.
·
God cures and the physician takes the fee.
·
The grass is always greener on the other side... (Meaning: You will always
want what you don't (or can't) have.)
·
Health is wealth
·
Home is where the heart is
·
I complained I had no shoes until I met a man who had no feet.
·
If you want to judge a man's character, give him power.
·
Impossible itself says I'm Possible
·
It's better to be safe than sorry.
·
Justice delayed is justice denied
·
Knowledge is the best charity.
·
Life begins at forty.
·
Life is what you do while you're waiting to die.
·
Like father, like son.
·
A little knowledge is a dangerous thing.
·
A little pot is easily hot.
·
Loose lips sink ships.
·
Lead by example
·
A man is known by the company he keeps.
·
Measure twice, cut once.
·
Misery loves company.
·
The more things change, the more they stay the same.
·
The more you know, the more you know you don't know.
·
Nature, time, and patience are three great physicians.
·
Necessity is the mother of invention.
·
No pain, no gain.
·
An old dog will learn no tricks.
·
One good turn deserves another.
·
One man's terrorist is another man's freedom fighter. - Ronald Reagan
·
One rotten apple will spoil the whole barrel.
·
Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising every time we
fall.
·
The pain o the little finger is felt by the entire body.
·
A paragraph should be like a lady's skirt: long enough to cover the
essentials but short enough to keep it interesting.
·
Proverbs are long life experiences, told in one short sentence.
·
Proverbs run in pairs (Every proverb seems to be contradicted by another
proverb with an opposed message).
·
Repetition is the mother of memory.
·
Revenge is a dish best served cold.
·
The road to hell is paved with good intentions.
·
Rome wasn't built in a day
·
Same trouble, different day.
·
Self trust is the first secret of success.
·
Slow but sure.
·
Spare the rod, spoil the child.
·
A stitch in time saves nine.
·
Stolen fruit is the sweetest.
·
Strike while the iron is hot.
·
Success is a journey not a destination.
·
Two heads are better than one.
·
Two things prolong your life: A quiet heart and a loving wife.
·
The way to a man's heart is through his stomach.
·
We must take the bad with the good.
·
What goes around comes around (you will eventually have to face the
consequences of your actions).
·
When in Rome, do as the Romans do.
·
The whole is greater than its parts.
·
Winning is earning. Losing is learning.
Thanks to our friend:
Adil M
