IELTS Exam Preparation

IELTS is an internationally recognised English language proficiency test. It is used for entry into tertiary studies and for vocational purposes.

At Lyceum, students are introduced to IELTS exams throughout every level of their General English course and are given the opportunity for practice at IELTS tests each week. The goal is to give students an introduction to the IELTS test format and teach strategies for sitting the test.

METHODOLOGY:
Our introduction to IELTS will give an overview of each of the four modules of the IELTS test, Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking. Students will learn about what can be expected in the test and strategies for approaching the test. Short exercises as well as a practice test in one of the four skills is issued each week.

MATERIALS:
Action Plan for IELTS, Academic or General Module by Vanessa Jakeman and Clare McDowell, Cambridge University Press, 2006.

Please see the IELTS site for further information:
http://www.ielts.org/

What is included in an IELTS test?

Listening 30 minutes
Listening to topics of a general interest, educational or vocational nature
Dealing with 12 common question types

Reading - One hour

Academic	General
Three passages approx 900 words each on an academic subject.	Three sections a) Three passages on everyday life b) Two passages on education, training or work c) One longer passage of general interest
Dealing with unfamiliar vocabulary	Dealing with unfamiliar vocabulary
Dealing with 16 common question types	Dealing with 15 common question types
Answer requirements	Answer requirements

Writing - One hour

	Academic	General
Task 1	Write a summary of graphical & factual information of 150 words	Write a letter of 150 words using the appropriate tone, formality & covering all points in the instructions
Task 2	Write a clear, well-structured discursive essay of 250 words	Write a clear, well-structured discursive essay of 250 words
Organisation	- Write in a clear & logical manner, use paragraphs appropriately - Use cohesion between sentences and idea	- Write in a clear & logical manner, use paragraphs appropriately - Use cohesion between sentences and idea
Vocabulary	- Use appropriate & accurate vocabulary - Use correct spelling - Use correct word forms - Attempt to use idiomatic & less common expressions	- Use appropriate & accurate vocabulary - Use correct spelling - Use correct word forms - Attempt to use idiomatic & less common expressions
Grammar	- Ensure sentences are accurate and varied - Use correct punctuation - Clearly express ideas	- Ensure sentences are accurate and varied - Use correct punctuation - Clearly express ideas

Speaking - 11-14 minutes

1. Answer general questions about everyday life.
2. Give a short talk about a simple topic.
3. Discuss abstract topics

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