10 Essential IELTS Speaking Tips that Will Help You Get a Band 7 or Higher
In a globalized world where we live in, there is a major need for a common language that people can use as a medium of common expression. While there are certainly many tongues that can fill up that spot, one language which has stood out compared to all others is English.
The English language has today gained such a high level of importance that it is increasingly being demanded for higher education and employment, particularly in countries where English is the main language. It is here that IELTS shows its importance.
For those who are not familiar with IELTS, it is a standardized exam used for evaluating a person’s ability to use the English language. The test is today highly valued across educational institutions and businesses in countries where the English language is required for everyday use.
When it comes to the IELTS exam, there are several sections that need to be answered, one of which happens to be speaking skills. This is important because it tests one’s ability to be fluent in the language and the overall level of proficiency at communicating with other English speakers on a day to day basis.
There are several things that can be done in order to ace this part of the exam. Given in the list below are 10 essential IELTS speaking tips that will help you get a band 7 or higher.
1.) Learn how to speak proper English
This is fairly obvious to begin with. To do so is by ensuring that you have a sound foundation of the English language. Learn to speak English from TV, movies, YouTube videos, etc.
2.) Eliminate mother tongue influence and learn to speak in a neutral accent
Many people tend to speak English in the same tone which they use for speaking in their own language. This is what is called ‘mother-tongue influence’ or MTI. If you are having any issues regarding this, try to eliminate it by following the way movie actors speak because it helps out a lot.
3.) Build up your vocabulary
You cannot speak if you don’t know what words to use to express your ideas. Therefore, build up your vocabulary as much as you can through your study material, books, novels, comics, etc.
4.) Learn your grammar
There is no point in having a great vocabulary if you aren’t aware of the right grammar to use. Spend some time to learn about the right grammar to use when you speak.
5.) Speak up
If you are having any issues with speaking up to express your ideas because of having a low voice, etc, speak up. Practice speaking in an open manner and be as clear and open as you possibly can.
6.) Pay attention to the cultural aspects of the words that you use
Quite often, the words that you use in your own language will end up becoming a part of the English that you use. While this might be fine with your family, relatives or friends, it isn’t alright when you are taking a standardized test. Eliminate all borrowings that aren’t official and stick to the words that are used in standardized English.
7.) Maintain a steady flow
Don’t make any sudden changes in the language flow. Always maintain a smooth flow of words and let it come naturally, like it would when you are speaking your own language.
8.) Do not get stressed or worried
The only thing that is going to happen when you do this is that you will forget all that you’ve learned and make a mess along the way.
9.) Believe in yourself
Yo can’t implement the previous 8 tips, if you don’t believe in yourself. Therefore, it is important to start believing in yourself, helping you become confident.
10.) Be confident
Last but not least, Be confident when you speak up. Your confidence will help get your ideas across with no problem.
In all, the next time you start working on appearing for this important exam, ensure that you follow these 10 essential IELTS speaking tips that will help you get a band 7 or higher. Not only it will help you to get a great score, but at the same time will also help you fluently converse in English when you finally arrive at your preferred destination, be it for education or employment.
