Tips and Advice for IELTS | Speaking Part

Speaking Module – IELTS Tips and Guidelines

Speaking is the final part of the IELTS exam and usually takes place in the afternoon on the test day. The exact time for your "Speaking Part" will be provided to you electronically before the test. However, in some cases (especially if a candidate fails to show up), this time may be adjusted. You will also receive the information about the time during the registration in the morning, so there is no need to worry about missing it. This part is the same for both General Training and Academic modules. We have prepared tips and guidelines for IELTS Speaking along with a description of each part of the exam.

The exam lasts between 11-14 minutes. An interesting aspect of IELTS Speaking is that this part is conducted face-to-face with one examiner. In Cambridge exams, you usually meet with two examiners and two candidates. Another specification is that your exam will be recorded. This recording will be reviewed later by another independent examiner to ensure higher objectivity in assessing the candidate. However, be aware that your examiner is an impartial evaluator and will not assess your personal opinions, but rather how you express yourself and your ability to use the language. It is normal for the examiner not to shake hands or comment on your performance, so do not try to ask them how you did. You will always receive a response that it was fine.

Part 1 – Introduction and Interview

This part involves a normal "Small Talk" – the examiner tries to find out how you respond to common questions about yourself and your life. It is a great opportunity to showcase your ability to use a wide range of grammatical tenses and to demonstrate the originality of your statements by varying the beginnings of your sentences.

• Remember, your goal is to impress. It is possible that the examiner has heard many candidates before you. Try to be memorable by speaking more complexly. However, always stay on topic. If the examiner has enough information, they will stop you and give you the next question.

Part 2 – Individual Long Turn

This part lasts 1-2 minutes, with 1 minute for preparation. Use this time to structure your response. People who systematically lead the debate and give examples (general or from life) and justifications for their arguments receive higher marks.

• Tips for Speaking – Pay attention to the use of appropriate "linking devices" such as for instance, in addition, compared to, since, moreover, unlike, as a result, because of, etc.
• Do not forget about "Discourse Markers" which help you organize parts of your statements, such as so, albeit, well, obviously, indeed, right, anyway, I mean, etc.

Part 3 – Two-way Discussion

This part involves a discussion with the examiner on a more general topic that is somewhat related to the topic in the previous part. A tip for you – try to be completely relaxed and smiling – it works wonders.

Your ability to react, fluently argue your opinions, and correctly organize them is assessed here. Topics range from more specific (Are actors or singers more popular in your country?) to broader and more general (What contribution do singers make to the development of modern culture in Slovakia?)

Scoring Criteria

• Vocabulary: Your ability to use a wide range of words, fixed expressions, metaphors, phrases, and both formal and informal expressions is assessed.
• Fluency & Coherence: The ability to respond fluently and gradually to the given question. This aspect is often problematic for candidates. Some easily get off topic and lose important points.
• Grammar and Accuracy: The ability to grammatically and stylistically form your response well, so that it closely resembles that of a native speaker.
• Pronunciation: Proper pronunciation is essential. Focus on clear and organized pronunciation; your accent is not considered the most important aspect.

Each part is scored from 1-9 (1 – practically no knowledge of the language, 9 – full command of the language with the ability to express accurately and fluently). The average of each part forms the overall score. Most English universities require an IELTS score of 6-7.5 or an equivalent ESOL exam (i.e., at least FCE, or CAE). Sometimes stricter requirements may appear. Most commonly, a score of 6.5 is required (this score is also considered a criterion for success in the test). In some countries, the exam is a necessary attachment to an application for permanent residence, work visas, etc.