Listening intently and speaking fluently are the two most basic parameters to test the command a person has over a language. Therefore, a test like IELTS which evaluates the English Proficiency of a candidate pays importance to Listening and Speaking sections. The International English Language Testing System contains four sections. The test is taken by candidates worldwide to gain a better opportunity to relocate to a native English speaking country such as UK, USA, Canada, New Zealand, and Australia. Let us see how the candidates can improve their Listening and speaking skills for the exam:

Listening Section:

This section has to be attempted very carefully as this requires the candidate to scrutinize the accent and understand what essence of the information provided is. This section lasts about 30 minutes. The section is maxed at 40 Marks, with four sections of 10 questions each. See below tips on how to improve scoring in this section

Read Instructions carefully: Before you begin listening, candidate must carefully examine the requirement from the section. This is essential as you will hear the audio ONLY once. Hence, make sure what is expected from you so that you listen from that point of view.

Listen for strategic words: Words which indicate change of direction in the audio or words which give hints on the theme should be made a note of. Listen for these words as they help in answering the questions.

Acquaint yourself with the accent, sounds and local words & speaker’s voice to be comfortable with the section. Do not panic if the speaker is fast or if the words are unfamiliar. Concentrate and try to follow.

Listen to audio books to improve concentration for the listening section

Speaking Section:

Speaking section is tested by an examiner during one on one session with the candidate. Lasting anywhere between 11-14 minutes, speaking section is tested as 3 sub sections.

Organize the structure of your speech mentally: Speak in a structured manner, with a logical flow of thoughts. Speak clearly and use day to day words in a fluent manner.

You are being tested for your ability to communicate in English, hence, speak freely. Express your opinions and talk in a confident manner after your ideas have been organized.

When in doubt ask: If some instruction is not clear, clarify with the examiner. Leave no room for misunderstanding as that may lead you to give wrong answers.

Be spontaneous: Do not sound like you are delivering by hearted answers. Develop the replies on the go and be original.

Read a lot about various topics so that you have a good idea when asked to speak. Read news and current affairs and general knowledge related topics frequently. This gives confidence and the practice of forming a focused mental sketch of a topic to speak on.