In order to get the band score you need in the IELTS speaking test it’s important to develop specific skills.

You will be aware that the speaking test is graded in four specific areas. Those areas are fluency, vocabulary, grammar and pronunciation.

In this podcast we’re going to talk about fluency. 

It’s important to use a range of discourse markers when taking your speaking test, so your speaking is fluent. Discourse markers are sometimes referred to as connecting words, or connecting phrases. For example, when answering the examiner’s questions you might say something like to be honest, or, in my opinion. These are two common discourse markers. Another connecting phrase you might use is, That’s an interesting question.

Let’s look at an example:

Let’s pretend the examiner asks you whether you are good at art. You might answer.

That’s a really good question. In my opinion, I am quite good at art. In fact, I really enjoy painting. To be honest, I think other people like my paintings too.

Now you try. I’m going to ask you a question, and you have to reply using these three discourse markers: To be honest / In my opinion / That’s a good question.

Are you ready for the question? Here it is: Are you ready for your IELTS test?


IELTS 

3 discourse markers to help you with your IELTS test

In part 2 of your IELTS test you have to speak on a topic for 2 minutes. Here are three things you should do in your one minute preparation time. 

1.Make a note of synonyms. Paraphrasing is an important skill to master when taking your IELTS exam. In fact, if you want to score a band score 6, you have to be able to generally paraphrase successfully. If you want a band score 7, you have to be able to paraphrase effectively. 

2. Think about idioms. Idioms are very important if you want to score above band score 6. To get band score 7, you have to use some less common idiomatic expressions. That’s a tricky thing to wrap your head around. Using idioms are extremely important. If you use idioms more than once in a blue moon, you will have a greater chance of achieving a band score 7. This is just a stab in the dark, but I expect most students would like to achieve a band score 7.

3. Think about connectives - linking words. Discourse markers are also important and will help you to move through the subheadings on your card smoothly and effortlessly. Phrase like “Now let me tell you about” or “Now I’d like to explain why…” or “let me tell you the reason why I….” will make your English speaking sound natural and fluent.

Don’t forget to book a lesson with me so I can help you achieve the band score you need.


3 strategies to help you in part 2 of your speaking test.

Hello! Achieving a band score of 7 in the IELTS speaking test is definitely a challenging but achievable goal for students. To help you reach this target, here are some tips and strategies to consider:


1. Practice regularly: Consistent practice is key to improving your speaking skills. Try to engage in daily conversations in English, watch English movies or TV shows, and listen to English podcasts to enhance your speaking abilities.


2. Familiarize yourself with the test format: Make sure you understand the structure of the IELTS speaking test, including the types of questions asked in each part. Practice speaking on a variety of topics to build your confidence.


3. Expand your vocabulary: Work on increasing your vocabulary by learning new words and phrases regularly. This will help you express yourself more effectively during the test.


4. Focus on fluency and coherence: Practice speaking at a natural pace and try to connect your ideas coherently. Avoid long pauses or hesitations, as they can affect your fluency score.


5. Seek feedback: Ask a teacher, tutor, or language partner to provide feedback on your speaking skills. This will help you identify areas for improvement and make necessary adjustments.


Remember, achieving a band score of 7 in the IELTS speaking test requires dedication, practice, and a positive attitude. Keep working hard and believe in your abilities! Good luck!

Tips for achieving IELTS band score 7 in your speaking test

When you take your IELTS speaking test, how should you prepare for part 2? What is the best way to use the one minute you have to prepare? What is the best way to prepare? How should you use that 1 minute?

Firstly, think about the synonyms you could use. Paraphrasing is an important skill. For example, if the question asks you why did you like something, don’t say ‘I like it because’ but say, it’s my favorite because. And if the question asks you how old you were when you learned how to ride a bike, don’t say ‘I learned to ride a bike when I was a child’, but say, ‘I learned to cycle when I was a child.’ Also, if the examiner asks you if something is important, don’t say ‘I think it’s important,’ but say ‘I think it’s essential, or I think it’s vital.’

Use synonyms. Learn to paraphrase. And book a lesson with me so you can practice your IELTS speaking skills and get the band score you need.
