The IELTS speaking round is a decisive one. Students are judged on their articulation of thought in English. The format is pretty straightforward. You are given a topic and you must express your opinions on that. Once you are done, you may be cross-questioned by the examiner pertaining to the argument you have presented. While it seems easy. It can be quite stressful when you are sitting face to face with the examiner.
If you are a nervous speaker or do not know how to prepare for the speaking round, here are some tips to make it easier for you.
Choose Topics to Study Wisely
It is not possible to predict what topic you will be presented with. However, IELTS has a certain pattern and often repeat their issues and topics. This makes it easier to narrow down the important IELTS speaking topics. Go through previous year’s topics and see which ones are more pertaining. Besides that, you must be updated on your current affairs and global news. It helps you come up with examples and stats to support your claim.
Do Not Memorise
Do not memorise your introduction which generally consists of the first part of your speaking round. The examiner will easily see through your mugged-up speech and it can affect your overall score, especially if you fail to answer the next rounds decently.
Practice
Since anything may show up in your IELTS speaking round, practice is the only way to ensure that you give your best attempt. Practice talking about a new topic every day with your family members or friends. It will improve your articulation skills and eventually you will get better at putting your thoughts into words.
Improve Your Vocabulary
Vocabulary is an important part of any language. In order to be articulate and precise in putting your thoughts forward, you must use the right words. Several words have similar or the same meaning but one word is more appropriate than another in a certain sentence. A student who can make precise use of words is more likely to get through the IELTS speaking round. That being said, do not throw jargon at the examiners and use only words that are appropriate.
Focus on Being Eloquent
Students often get stressed about being right or wrong when presented with a topic. This makes them nervous and they end up fumbling for the right words. While it is important that you try to give the right answer, you are being primarily marked for your eloquence and how well you can put forward your thoughts. Therefore, focus on answering clearly rather than being right or wrong. You can add facts or speak about whatever you know pertaining to the topic but the important thing is that you keep your language lucid and your thoughts coherent.
Do Not Repeat the Examiner’s Question
When being asked a question, do not repeat the same question while answering. Since you have a very tight time to prove yourself, it is best to skip redundancy. Even if you are not sure of your answer, try to make it a two-way conversation by interjecting your present thoughts. You may also take a pause and say something like I haven’t thought about it.’ or ‘let me see. This gives you a little time to think without having to repeat the question.
Study Grammatical Structures
You will be marked for your grammatical range and accuracy in the IELTS speaking round therefore, your speech must not be boring or in a single grammatical structure. It can make your answer monotonous and if you fail to retain the attention of your examiner, it will reflect on your score band.
Use a combination of complex, compound, and simple sentences to express yourself. Practice by watching interviews, shows, and movies in English. You can also ask your friends and family members to correct you when you go wrong.
Focus on Pronunciation and Not Accent
An IELTS examiner understands a variety of accents therefore you need not worry about being indecipherable. Moreover, it is best to stay away from a fake accent. Instead, try to work up your pronunciation game. Focus on stress and intonation when you practice speaking and work words you find difficult to pronounce.
Avoid Speaking in Monotone
Do not speak in a flat and monotonous sound with almost no variation. It does not help the examiner understand which part of your speech is more important than the others. Put emphasis on certain parts, take pauses, and have expressions on your face. Use your hands when explaining your points. It shows more involvement.
The IELTS speaking round is considered the most intimidating part of the exam but if you know how to handle it, you are good to go. The above-mentioned tips will help you ace the interview and secure a seat in your favorite university.
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