IELTS Speaking Test - All you need to know!

The IELTS speaking test is conducted to assess how best a candidate can communicate and use their vocabulary to put across thoughts and opinion. The test also analyses their ability to organise ideas coherently without fumbling. The IELTS speaking test takes 11-14 minutes, and you need to ensure that you use this time wisely. Narrowing down on the best strategy to ace the IELTS speaking test so you get the perfect band score of 8.

What is IELTS speaking Test?

IELTS speaking test is evaluated based on how well you can communicate through spoken English. IELTS speaking test is a face-to-face interview and consists of three tasks which will be recorded. The test takes about 11-14 minutes.

IELTS has two modules: IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training. Speaking test is the same for both modules. The speaking test can be completed a week before or after the other tests.

IELTS Speaking Test Format

There are three tasks:

Task 1 -- You are required to answer general questions about yourself and many familiar topics, such as your home, family, work, studies and interests. This task lasts between 4 and 5 minutes.

Task 2 -- You will be given a cue card, and you will have one minute to prepare. You are then asked to speak for up to 2 minutes. The examiner then asks you one or two questions on the same subject.

Task 3 -- You will be asked more questions connected to the topic in task 2. These questions give you a chance to discuss more abstract issues and ideas. This task lasts between 4 and 5 minutes.

IELTS speaking test marking criteria

The examiner listens to the candidate then evaluates their level by comparing the candidates’ performance. The score analysis determined by using these four criteria are -

• Fluency and Coherence -- The following criteria assess how well a candidate can converse in English, they should be audible, fluent and have the skills to present their ideas.

• Lexical Resource -- The following criteria assess a candidates vocabulary range and their skill on how well they can use it to present their thoughts and opinion.

• Grammatical Range and Accuracy --The following criteria assess a candidates ability to organise sentences that are both accurate and structured.

• Pronunciation -- The following criteria assess a candidates abilty to pronounce.

IELTS Speaking Tips

Tips and tricks for each task -

• You will be asked familiar, day to day questions about your life, try giving genuine responses.
• Over speaking or under speaking could be a fatal parameter, try avoiding over-long or short yes or no answers.
• Imagine as if you are talking to a friend, relax and smile.

Task 2 

• You will get only 2 minutes to prepare the answer for the topic given in the cue card. Use this time well by making brief notes on the subject.
• Extend the topic by spending some of the time talking about other people or places involved in the matter, your feelings, etc.
• Make sure you cover the points on the topic card. If you can’t remember any point, think about how you could describe it.
• If you make any grammatical mistake, try to correct it.
• Ask for any form of clarification from the examiner so that you don't make any mistakes and can organise your thoughts better.

Task 3 

• The examiner will ask for your opinions, ideas, speculations, comparisons related to the topic of task 2. Listen to the questions carefully and make sure your answer is grammatically well structured.
• Ask the examiner to repeat the question or elucidate any part that you did not comprehend.
• If you can’t think of an answer immediately, buy some time by rephrasing the question or by discussing the question.
• Try to talk more than the examiner.
• Don’t over analyse yourself while you speak. Try speaking with utmost confidence and also ensure you are fluent.

How to Prepare For IELTS Speaking

Prepare for IELTS speaking test in just four steps -

Step 1 -- Know the exam

• Be well aware of the exam format and find out how the exam is conducted, so that you can prepare accordingly.
• Work on the four marking criteria: fluency and coherence, lexical resource, grammatical range and accuracy, pronunciation. Each criterion counts 25% of your mark on a nine-band scale.
• The examiner gives you marks for your grammar, and error-free sentences hence practice speaking using a range of appropriate grammatical structures.
• You will be judged on pronunciation so speak clearly.

Step 2 -- Set the target

• Find out your current speaking band by taking a few practice tests or ask an IELTS teacher to assess you.
• Find out how much you need to improve and work towards your set target.
• Make a study plan.
• Find out your mistakes and weaknesses and focus on improving them.

Step 3 -- Practice every day

• Try reading more. Reading is an excellent way to learn new words and improve your vocabulary. Also, watch documentaries and movies. Find a language buddy, someone who can help you out.
• Practice the introduction and cue card speaking by recording your voice on your mobile phone. Re-hearing will help you understand your mistakes and the fumbling errors. Try correcting it.
• Read blogs and listen to English language radio, news and films.

Step 4 -- Talk to someone in English

• Try talking to someone in English in your local area.
• Speak English with your friends and family.
• Practice speaking in real life situation.
• Practice extending your answer.

How To Score Band 8 In IELTS Speaking Test