How do I Score Well on IELTS® Speaking?

In order to do well on the IELTS® speaking test, students generally need to prove to those administering the test that they are able to discuss various topics in English with a general level of competence. The speaking portion of the IELTS® test measures a certain kind of language proficiency related to common discussion, which includes comprehension as well as expression. The speaking category of the IELTS®, or International English Language Testing System, is a key part of this multi-focus English language diagnostic test.

Students who do well on the IELTS® speaking exam generally anticipate dealing with trainers who are associated with the British Council and other providers of IELTS® exam content. Part of preparing for the IELTS® exam is understanding how the trainer will ask questions, and what will be expected in all three areas of this test category. Individual IELTS® coaches, tutors and teachers will often prepare students for specific cultural or dialect oriented details that they may face when conducting the IELTS® speaking exam.

As mentioned, the IELTS® speaking exam includes three parts. Students who are prepared for all three of these parts will have the best chance at doing well on this portion of the test. The first part of the IELTS® speaking category involves an introduction and simple exploration of the student’s identity. The second part of the speaking test is what experienced trainers call a “long turn,” where the student will be expected to address a certain topic at length. The third part of the speaking portion of the test generally involves discussion.

Another way to do well on the IELTS® speaking portion is to have the best resources and coaching behind the student's preparation efforts. Some trainers who administer IELTS® prep classes have experience with the specific scripts used in the IELTS®. They can help students prepare for some of the questions they may face, as well as some of the underlying diagnostic tools used to assess a student’s performance. This can give an English language learner a particular edge in passing the IELTS® with flying colors.

In general, the student who wishes to pass the IELTS® speaking exam, and other elements of the test, needs to review appropriate materials that break down the test standard clearly. Then, the student must master enough of the basics to passably demonstrate these standards. In the end, some of the final score will be determined by technical proficiency, while other aspects of the score might come down to a student’s intuitive ability to mimic foreign language structure and tone.