The spontaneous nature of the IELTS speaking test is what makes it the most difficult. With the other parts of the IELTS exam i.e. writing, reading, and listening, you have enough time to analyze and assess your answers. This is not true for the speaking test as you have to start speaking as soon as you are asked the question. Having to converse with the examiner face-to-face is another pressure point for most IELTS aspirants.
Although you may think it is the most difficult of all, with proper guidance and practice, you can use the speaking test to compensate for any mistakes in the others. As for the guidance part, you can take an IELTS speaking course in Sri Lanka where you will interact with your batch mates and gain the confidence to speak English.
Here are some useful tips to score well on your IELTS speaking test.
Understand the structure
The IELTS speaking test is divided into 3 parts. The first part is 4-5 minutes long in which the interviewer will ask you to introduce yourself in English. He may ask you questions related to your family, studies, etc. In the 3-4 minutes of the second part, you will be given a card with a topic written on it. You will also be handed a pencil and paper to write down your ideas. The examiner will ask you questions related to that topic after you make a speech of 1-2 minutes. The third part is an extension of the second in which you will be asked more detailed questions about the topic for 4-5 minutes.
Speak fluent English
Once asked a question, you should start speaking instantly. You don’t have to use big words or worry about the vocabulary. Instead, focus on building your vocabulary before applying for the test. Keep it simple but constant. Speaking fluently doesn’t mean speaking too quickly that the examiner can’t understand you. Keep it balanced and don’t make grammar mistakes.
Speak in your natural accent
You must speak in an accent that you feel comfortable with. Don’t try to speak it as English people do. Also, the examiner has gone through many interviews with accents like you, he can understand you. Just keep your natural accent and speak as you will speak at your home or with your friends.
Process your answers
When asked a question, if you don’t understand it, you can ask the examiner to clarify. Don’t hesitate to take small pauses to think about how you will deliver your answers. For that, you can use certain phrases like “that’s an excellent question”, “that’s a good point”, or “let me think”. Your points will not be deducted for processing your answers.
Emphasize or stress different words
Talking in a flat tone will not convey your emotions or feelings about the words you are speaking. Keep varying your tone according to your speech and put emphasis on words to make it sound more engaging. Take short pauses while you are talking and make sure that your words convey the message the way you want them to. Remember, smiling all the way through it will help ease things.
