Tuesday, 24 May 2016
IELTS
Why IELTS?
IELTS is a test developed by the world’s leading experts in language assessment on four key English language skills: listening, reading, writing and speaking. It is designed to assess the language ability of people who aim to study, work, immigrate and integrate an English-speaking environment.
Global recognition
IELTS – The International English Language Testing System is:
• The world’s most popular English proficiency test, with 2.5 million tests taken in 2014;
• Recognized by over 9000 organizations worldwide, including schools, universities, employers, immigration authorities and professional bodies;
• Administered in over 1000 locations in over 140 countries.
• Recognized by over 9000 organizations worldwide, including schools, universities, employers, immigration authorities and professional bodies;
• Administered in over 1000 locations in over 140 countries.
Accepted and trusted in Canada
IELTS is the preferred high stakes English language test in Canada. Trusted by over 350 Canadian organizations, it was the first test to be recognized by Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) and Immigration Quebec as proof of English language proficiency for Express Entry (Skilled Immigrants), Quebec-selected skilled workers, Provincial Nominee etc… In May 2014, the CIC announced it was renewing its trust in IELTS for another five years.
2 versions of IELTS to meet all purposes
With IELTS, you can go anywhere in Canada, and beyond.
• IELTS Academic: If you want to study at university, at an undergraduate or postgraduate level, or join a professional association where English is a prerequisite.
• IELTS General: If you want to apply for Express Entry or any other immigration program in order to establish anywhere in Canada.
For more information, visit: ielts.ca & takeielts.org.
108 IELTS Academic Boost your score in 15 minutes – VALUE BOMB
The overview below contains tips that can help you improve your IELTS score in a matter of few minutes.
PRIOR TO STARTING
Underline the significant keywords on the text. You should try converting nouns into verbs (and vice versa) and adjectives into adverbs while also outlining words with similar meanings (synonyms) and opposite meanings (antonyms). This way you can boost your vocabulary and expand your answer.
In order to make the overall idea stand out, you should highlight and circle the graph or graphs used.
You should then proceed to identify the trends of the graph.
Here are some guiding questions to help you:
– What is the overall idea?
– What are the major changes (stable and unstable ones)?
– Can you identify something that stands out (e.g. a peak, a trough, etc.)?
– Is there a pattern forming?
– Can you compare and contrast elements (e.g. people, locations, etc.)?
WRITING YOUR PARAGRAPHS
After you have done the procedures mentioned above, look at your paragraph structures. Also try incorporating these tips:
– When starting your paragraph, use the fundamental rule- start with general ideas and work down to specific details.
– Start your paragraph with a general idea, avoid starting with numbers. An example of a general idea is, “In the United Kingdom, the gender wage gap was slowly shrinking over, especially towards the end of the period.”
– Follow the general idea with specific ones. Use numbers to elaborate the general thought (e.g. In 2012, the wage gap closed down to below 10% for full-time workers, etc.)
In analysing the changes in graphs start:
– from the largest area in a pie chart,
– from the left (or y axis) on a bar graph and
– from the earliest point on a line graph.
In naming the parts of the diagram, be sure to use relevant vocabulary like:
– “The curvilinear” or “The curve”,
– “The broken line” or “The solid line” or “The dotted line”,
– “The shaded area” or “The un-shaded are”,
– “The coloured bars”.
These words will aide the description of the graph.
You can use approximations to give emphasis on your estimates. Say for example, “Roughly 10%”, “Nearly 12 million women”, “Over a hundred men”, “approximately half of the population” and so on.
In describing the speed of change, you can use adjectives and adverbs that can best describe the movement. A few are given in the table below.
| ADJECTIVE | ADVERB |
| Rapid | Rapidly |
| Swift | Swiftly |
| Quick | Quickly |
| Hasty | Hastily |
| Dramatic | Dramatically |
| Sudden | Suddenly |
| Steady | Steadily |
In explaining the graph, do not describe the X and Y axis. Rather,
– Give the information/data plotted on the graph,
– Do not write everything that you see on the graph,
– Choose the main points/trends (e.g. the major ideas),
– Group similar things to avoid over piling of ideas,
– Narrow down the idea to its most specific sense (Say “Women’s wage satisfaction increased dramatically by 16% in the past three years” instead of “The line went up through the years”),
– Be statistical, never emotional (Instead of using “I believe”, use “Based on the data”) and
– Avoid starting with conjunctions (e.g. but, and, or, for, since, so, also, because, etc.).
IELTS Academic Exam Preparation Course
IELTS Academic Exam Preparation Course
This course is a must for anyone preparing for the IELTS Academic exam.
We will explore different techniques and practice using vocabulary required for the IELTS speaking, listening, reading and writing tests.
We will focus on complex grammar structures, and how to use these correctly when speaking and writing.
The teacher will point out your weaknesses whether grammatical or otherwise and offer ways for you to overcome them, with the intention of raising your level to a 6.5 band score or above (7/7.5 /8 - depending on your current level and ability) to be able to enter a UK university or for other academic / employment purposes.
Each course runs for either 3, 4 or 6 weeks, each class lasts two hours.
commites of different students about their test
Hello!
Let's get straight to the point.I am from Malaysia and registered for IELTS (Academic Module) under IDP Subang Jaya. I took IELTS because I had to. Because the university I chose to apply to does not accept Cambridge's CAE and CPE. And so I banked in MYR 610, which does not include payment for the IELTS workshop held by IDP.
May I add that the workshop is not necessary at all. It's expensive and I don't see much of a point, since all they'll do is brief you on the components of the test, give you a couple of past year papers to work on and some quick-yet-obvious tips on how to score.
Doesn't justify having to fork out more money, honestly. You can get enough material to work on off the Internet.
Here is a link to some IELTS practice tests: http://papers.xtremepapers.com/IELTS/
There are 4 components: Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking.
The sequence of the components may differ from one candidate to another. In my case, I took Listening, Reading and Writing at one go, had a 4-hour break, and ended with Speaking.
LISTENING
The easiest of the lot, I feel. I've actually not done a single past year test for Listening because I couldn't be bothered to download the .mp3 audio file.
Anyway, you listen to a few recordings in a couple of different accents (the accents are very understandable!), and don't worry, the questions will be in order corresponding to the audiotape.
However, each recording will only be played ONCE, so do not daydream. Two seconds of blanking out is enough to get you disoriented.
I've also noticed a bit of a pattern to the paper. Quite a few questions are what I would call "trick" questions. For example:
A: "Hello, may I get your name?"
B: "Yes, it's Emma Hardie."
A: "Emma Hardy.."
B: "It's -ie."
The question requires you to write down the name of the person. Most people who didn't pay attention would have ended up writing "Hardy" instead of "Hardie".
Exam setters seem to like mentioning every answer possible in the recording to confuse students. Some answers sound rather similar as well.
For example:
QUESTION - Where did Tom and Mary ask for directions?
A. At the train station
B. At the police station
C. At the national museum
D. At the train museum
You really have to be attentive, because the recording is set in such a way that all four possibilities get mentioned, but you'll eventually know which to cross out.
The recording lasts about 30mins, then you get 10mins to transfer your answers onto the answer sheet.
READING (ACADEMIC)
3 long-ass articles. I got an article about the study of butterflies, one on smog, and another on lies.
If you can speed-read, please do so. There is absolutely no need to read the excerpts word-by-word, just skim through quickly to get the gist of it, then jump right to the questions.
In my opinion, this component is rather straightforward except for certain questions where they give you a statement and choices: mentioned, unmentioned, or writer does not express this opinion.
This can get quite frustrating at times, because many candidates end up getting confused between unmentioned andwriter does not express this opinion. You might want to do some practice tests prior to the actual day.
This paper lasts for 60mins.
WRITING (ACADEMIC)
2 tasks. You can write in blue/black pen or pencil.
Task 1 examines your analytical skills and how you express the facts in words. You'll be asked to summarise the chart/graph given. Be sure to mention the general trend before going into details. Use words such as: fluctuated, rise, fell, shot up significantly, dipped slightly, reached its peak, stable, plateau..
The minimum word count for Task 1 is 150.
Task 2 is more of a discussion/argument. They tend to ask you for your view on the statement given.
For example: E-learning should be introduced to kindergarten students. To what extent do you agree?
The minimum word count for Task 2 is 250.
This paper lasts for 60mins.
SPEAKING
3 parts. There will be an audio recorder placed on the desk. (Sort of resembles being interrogated at the police station :p)
Do not mumble. Make sure you can be heard.
First part: Introduce yourself. The examiner will ask simple questions like "where do you live?", "could you describe your family to me?", "do you have a pet?". Do not give short answers. You are expected to elaborate slightly to show your proficiency in the language.
Here is a list of rather accurate sample questions: http://www.goodluckielts.com/IELTS-speaking-topics.html
For the second part, you'll be handed a task sheet, stating the topic you'll be required to talk about for 2mins. The examiner will not interrupt you. There are some points for you to use on the task sheet. A pencil and paper will be provided for you to jot down notes and prepare your "speech". You have 1min to do so.
The third section is where the examiner asks you questions pertaining to the topic from Part 2. The number of questions asked will vary, and depends on how short/long of an answer you give. Again, like Part 1, do elaborate, as this shows that you are comfortable communicating in English.
For this entire component, refrain from trying to be funny. Be casual, but tend more to the formal side. Maintain good eye contact. Stay away from slang altogether! I tried to be punny but the examiner didn't quite like it. (I still think it's unfair though. Hey, you have to have a certain level of English to comprehend puns, okay?!) Anyway, I got a Band 8 so whatever, lah.
This paper lasts for about 15mins, depending on how you answer.
OVERALL:
Although I haven't had the best experience with IDP in terms of university application, IDP conducted the IELTS test very professionally. Everyone knew what to do, and everything started on time.
IELTS
IELTS – ONE TEST, COUNTLESS OPPORTUNITIES
IELTS is the world’s most popular high-stakes English language test. It is the test that opens doors to a world of academic and professional opportunity in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the UK, the USA and many other places around the world where English is a language in the workplace or the classroom.
The test for study − Thousands of the world’s most reputable universities and colleges will accept your IELTS results as evidence of your English language proficiency.
The test for professionals − Professional registration bodies in many fields will accept an IELTS result, including accounting, engineering, law, medicine, nursing, pharmacy and teaching bodies in many countries. This means that after completing your studies, you may need to take the test in order to gain professional registration in an English-speaking country. If you choose IELTS as the test you take to enter university, you will be familiar with the IELTS test format when you sit it again for professional registration.
The test for migration − IELTS is required by governments in more countries than any other English language test as a requirement for permanent residency. The governments of the UK, Australia, Canada and New Zealand accept IELTS results.
The test that’s fairer to you – Did you know that IELTS is the only high-stakes English language test where your Speaking test is one-on-one with an examiner in a private room where you will not be interrupted by other test takers? There will be no computers, no technical problems and no distractions.
WHY CHOOSE IELTS
IELTS scores are accepted as proof of your English language skills by more than 9,000 organisations – including universities, colleges and professional organisations. IELTS opens doors for education and employment opportunities around the globe.
WHAT IS IELTS?
The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is the world’s most popular high-stakes English language proficiency test for study, workand migration with more than two million tests taken in the past year.
IELTS results are recognised by more than 9,000 organisations, including educational institutions, employers, professional associations and governments, in 135 countries around the world.
IELTS test content is developed by an international team of experts and undergoes extensive research to ensure the test remains fair and unbiased for any candidate regardless of nationality, background, gender, lifestyle or location.
IELTS test content is developed by an international team of experts and undergoes extensive research to ensure the test remains fair and unbiased for any candidate regardless of nationality, background, gender, lifestyle or location.
You can take IELTS Academic or IELTS General Training, depending on the organisation you are applying to and your plans for the future.
IELTS TEST FORMAT
IELTS is a test of all four language skills: Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking. You will take the Listening, Reading and Writing tests all on the same day one after the other, with no breaks in between. Depending on your test centre, your Speaking test may be on the same day as the other three tests, or up to seven days before or after that. The total test time is under three hours.
Read more about the IELTS test format.
WHY IS THE IELTS FORMAT FAIRER FOR YOU?
You deserve a fair chance to do your best. That’s why, unlike other tests, IELTS gives you a quiet room for an individual Speaking test with no distractions or interruptions.
IELTS also recognises that people have different approaches to answering questions. For example, with IELTS you can answer questions within the Reading test or within the Writing test in the order that suits you. You can also make changes to your Reading answers during the hour of the Reading test and adjust your Writing responses during the hour of the Writing test.
Introduce materials for IELTS preparation from A to Z
- Materials for foundation of preparation
In this part, I think there are 3 parts that need to be consolidated:Pronunciation, Vocabulary and Grammar.
Pronunciation. In reality, this part is more difficult to study without instructors. However, I think it is okay with people who have perseverance and can be quickly receptive from books.
- Learn to pronounce each vowel and consonant in the “English Pronunciation in Use” with a British accent, and the book “American Accent Training,””Pronunciation Workshop” with American accent.
- After understanding how to pronounce each sound , you move on learning Intonation with the above materials. In addition, you can use short speech on the BBC and VOA to imitate speaking.
Vocabulary. This part may make many learners feel disappointed because they usually quickly forget vocabularies. The reason is that you try to cram too much words without applying them, so after a later time, you will forget soon. Below there are some books to help you get vocabulary for IELTS:
- English Vocabulary in Use (Elementary – Intermediate – Advanced)
- Vocabulary for IELTS
- Check your vocabulary for IELTS
Grammar. In fact, the IELTS Grammar is not as horrible as the university examination or HSG, but it is necessary to understand basic knowledge.
- English Grammar in Use
- Grammar for IELTS (harder)
2.Materials for practicing IELTS skills
a) Listening
To my view, the best book to practice listening is “Listening Strategies for IELTS” (band 5 – 6.5). It is divided into each form; it has 20 posts to practice. Although the posts are quite old, it is ok to use for practicing reflexion with listening forms.
Also, you can practice listening comfortably without clear purposes and intentions by listening to speeches of Tedx. Listening to radio on BBC world service and CNN students news is also a good method in spite of the fast speaking speed.
b) Reading
Similar to listening part, this part has the book “Reading Strategies for IELTS” (band 5 – 6.5). Moreover, if you have trouble with reading a post of over one thousand English words and you also want to improve your reading speed, you should spend 30 minutes per day reading English newspapers on National Geographic, BBC news, …
c) Writing
In my opinion, this is the part you will have many difficulties in finding materials to self-study. It is often easier for you to learn with instructors. There are some useful books to help you in this part.
- Academic Vocabulary in Use
- Visual IELTS (Gabi Duigu) for practicing Task 1
- Academic writing for IELTS
d) Speaking
In order to practice this skill, you can find out topics and questions on the Internet to practice in group with your friends. However, it is advised that you should have a instructor to point out mistakes. Two books-IELTS Speaking by Mark Allen and Mat Clark are useful for you.
e) Books to practice 4 skills
– With target 6.5 you can begin from “Step Up to IELTS, Objective IELTS, Cambridge Action Plan for IELTS”
– With target from 7.0 you can use “IELTS Masterclass”. I think reading part in this book is quite hard.
- Materials for practicing IELT
- a) Target 6.5–
– IELTS Test builder (1, 2)
– Cambridge IELTS practice test ( from 5 to 8): the books from 1 to 4 are old so they are not suitable, but you also can study them more if you have much time.
– Actual Reading Test
– Actual Listening Test (recently published)
– IELTS for Academic purpose: 6 practice tests
b) Target from 7.0
– The above books
– IELTS Plus (1, 2, 3)
- IELTS Practice Test (Peter May)
With the books “Cambridge IELTS practice test 9 and 10” which are recently published, I think you should practice in the last week before taking the exam to know your real level. Make sure that you check carefully your tasks when practicing.
To my view, you should pay attention at the tasks that you often do wrongly. Try to take note the wrong questions to not make mistakes in the exam.
The above materials and advice are concluded based on my practicing process and guides from my teachers.
Wish you have IELTS score as expected.
From Mai Lilo (7.5 IELTS – L: 8.5, R: 8.5, W: 7.0, S: 6.0)
Translated by Thuong Ngoc
IELTS EXPRESS COURSE
IELTS EXPRESS COURSE
With IELTS EXPRESS COURSE you can still achieve an Ielts score of 4.5 in just 3 months.
Ielts is one of the international certificates and is the world’s most popular English test for higher education and helps student have more advantages in prepare for studying abroad.
For countries like UK, Australia, Canada,… Ielts is a required certificate for students to get visa. Therefore, in order to help students have a good prepare for their plans to study abroad, Ielts Express Course was born and developed over the years.
We have an experienced, friendly and enthusiastic staff. They will help you receive the most practical benefits from every course. Joining Ielts Express Course with UE, you will enjoy many attractive benefits:
• Take the input test and have the right level placement.
• Practise Pronounce and Intonation, you will confidently speak English
• Being shared with practical experience as well as effective test-taking strategies
• Approach a plenty source of Ielts Books
• Being regularly tested by the teachers and upadate the results to have plan of improving your skills
• Free mentor (If necessary)
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In addition to teachinh quality, Ielts Express Course is also very famous and professional in spacious facilities and the commitment in teaching quality. Our facilities are equiped with air conditioner and the necessary machines for teaching to help students feel comfortable when learning. There are only about 12-15 students each class. With this number, there will be close interaction between teacher and students.
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We are trying our best to improve our services and ensure the quality of teaching at the good level in each course. Ielts Express Course undertakes that: Although you are just start to learn English, you will reach the minimum Ielts score of 4.5.
Each Ielts Express Course lasts 1,5 months with a reasonable fee. With the desire of bringing the best opportunities for students improve their English. Hopefully with this efford, there will be more and more UE students fullfill their dreams to conquer the peak of knowledge of English.
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