IELTS stands for the International English Language Testing System. It is one of the most popular English language proficiency tests in the world. The IELTS test assesses the language ability of people who want to study or work where English is used as the language of communication. It is recognized by universities, employers, immigration authorities, and professional bodies in many countries, including the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand. The test covers four language skills: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. There are two types of IELTS tests: the Academic version, which is for people applying for higher education or professional registration, and the General Training version, which is for those migrating to English-speaking countries for secondary education, work experience, or training programs.
OVERVIEW IELTS SEPT BY STEP
- Listening Module:
- Duration: Approximately 30 minutes
- Format: You’ll listen to four recordings of native English speakers and then write your answers to a series of questions.
- Content: The recordings include conversations, monologues, and dialogues in various contexts, such as everyday social situations, academic lectures, or workplace discussions.
- Skills Assessed: Your ability to understand the main ideas and specific details, as well as the speaker’s attitude and purpose.
- Reading Module:
- Duration: 60 minutes
- Format: You’ll read three long texts taken from books, newspapers, magazines, and online resources. Afterward, you’ll answer questions related to the texts.
- Content: The texts cover a range of topics, including descriptive, factual, and analytical passages. They are designed to test a wide range of reading skills, from understanding gist and main ideas to understanding detailed information and recognizing opinions, attitudes, and arguments.
- Skills Assessed: Your ability to read and understand academic and general texts efficiently, including skimming, scanning, and comprehension of detailed information.
- Writing Module:
- Duration: 60 minutes
- Format: There are two tasks in this module.
- Task 1 (Academic): You’ll be presented with a graph, table, chart, or diagram and asked to describe, summarize, or explain the information in your own words.
- Task 1 (General Training): You’ll be presented with a situation and asked to write a letter requesting information or explaining a situation.
- Task 2: You’ll be asked to write an essay in response to a point of view, argument, or problem.
- Content: Task 1 assesses your ability to present factual information in a clear, coherent manner, while Task 2 evaluates your ability to express and support opinions on a topic.
- Skills Assessed: Your ability to organize ideas, present arguments coherently, and use a wide range of vocabulary and grammatical structures accurately.
- Speaking Module:
- Duration: 11-14 minutes
- Format: The test is conducted as a one-on-one interview with an examiner.
- Part 1: Introduction and interview about familiar topics, such as hobbies, studies, work, family, and interests.
- Part 2: You’ll be given a cue card with a topic and asked to talk about it for 1-2 minutes. You’ll have one minute to prepare notes.
- Part 3: Discussion related to the topic in Part 2, exploring abstract ideas and issues in more depth.
- Content: The topics cover a range of personal, social, and academic contexts.
- Skills Assessed: Your ability to communicate effectively in English, including fluency, coherence, vocabulary range, grammatical accuracy, and pronunciation.
Preparing for each module involves practice with relevant materials, understanding the format and timing, and familiarizing yourself with the types of questions you’ll encounter.
There are several reasons why an IELTS training session at a campus might be better than self-study for some individuals:
- Structured Learning Environment: Campus-based training sessions provide a structured learning environment with a set curriculum, timetable, and resources. This structure can help students stay organized and focused on their studies.
- Expert Guidance: Trainers or instructors at campus-based training sessions are usually experienced professionals who are familiar with the IELTS exam format and content. They can provide personalized guidance, feedback, and strategies tailored to individual learning styles and needs.
- Interactive Learning: Campus-based training sessions often include interactive activities, group discussions, and practice exercises that simulate real exam conditions. This interactive approach can enhance understanding, retention, and application of knowledge.
- Access to Resources: Campus-based training sessions typically offer access to a wide range of study materials, including textbooks, practice tests, audiovisual resources, and online platforms. These resources can supplement classroom instruction and support self-directed learning.
- Motivation and Accountability: Attending campus-based training sessions can provide a sense of motivation and accountability, as students interact with peers, participate in group activities, and receive encouragement from instructors. This peer support and accountability can help maintain momentum and commitment to study regularly.
- Simulated Exam Experience: Some campus-based training sessions offer mock exams and simulated test conditions, allowing students to experience the exam format, timing, and pressure in a controlled environment. This practice can help reduce test anxiety and improve performance on the actual exam day.
- Networking Opportunities: Campus-based training sessions provide opportunities for students to network with peers who share similar goals and interests. Networking can facilitate collaboration, information sharing, and mutual support in preparing for the IELTS exam.
However, it’s important to note that self-study can also be effective for some individuals, especially those with strong self-discipline, time management skills, and access to high-quality study materials. Ultimately, the choice between campus-based training and self-study depends on individual preferences, learning styles, and specific needs.
