IELTS English Speaking Test

IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is an exam which is used to evaluate language proficiency. IELTS is often used to measure language skills in various fields such as education, immigration and job applications. The exam consists of four main parts: Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking. Speaking exam is usually the last part and exam time and date may change depending on written exams. While some exam centers immediately continue with the speaking section, some exam centers may take a break and continue with this section later on.

IELTS Speaking Section Parts

The IELTS Speaking section is one of the four parts of the exam and takes place as an individual interview with an assessor. It takes approximately 11-17 minutes. This section is designed to assess English-speaking abilities. IELTS speaking section takes place in a natural environment and aims to assess the ability to use language skills in real life. It is of high necessity to demonstrate natural, fluent and effective communication skills in this part of the exam.

The speaking part has three parts:

1. Introduction

• When the exam begins, the examiner asks the candidate a few questions to introduce himself. This usually consists of basic information such as name, job, educational background, etc. This part takes around 4-5 minutes.
• Some of the questions that can be asked in this section are:
  • Can you tell me your full name?
  • Can you show me your identification, please?
  • Where are you from?
  • Do you work or study?

Part 2: Introduction and Interview

• In this part, the examiner asks the candidate questions, usually on everyday topics. These questions cover general topics such as family, work, hobbies, travel, and daily activities. This part usually takes 4-5 minutes.
• Some of the questions that can be asked are:
  • What kind of music do you like?
  • Can you describe your hometown?
  • How do you usually spend your weekends?
  • Tell me about your family.

Chapter 3: Long Speech

• In this part, the candidate is given a card and asked to talk about a topic written on the card. The candidate is given 1 minute of preparation time to think and talk about the topic. Afterwards, the candidate speaks for 1-2 minutes. During this time, the candidate is expected to express the main ideas on the topic and provide supporting details.
• Some of the questions that can be asked in this section are:
  • Describe a place you visited that made a strong impression on you.
  • Talk about an important event in your life and explain its significance.
  • Describe a book or a movie that you enjoyed and explain why.

Chapter 4: Discussion

• In the final part, a more in-depth discussion is held with the candidate. This stage often includes expanded and more complex questions related to the topic in the third part. It aims to evaluate the candidate's thinking skills, understanding capacity and ability to develop arguments. This part usually takes 4-5 minutes.
• Some of the questions that can be asked in this section are:
  • How has technology changed the way people communicate with each other?
  • What role do cultural events play in society?
  • How can cities encourage people to use public transportation?
  • Discuss the impact of social media on personal relationships.

Is the IELTS Speaking Exam Difficult?

IELTS speaking exam can be considered differently based on individual skills, English level and the readiness & preparation of the candidate. However, since the IELTS Speaking section aims to evaluate candidates' English-speaking skills, candidates who are not ready for this part can consider it to be difficult.

Factors that affect the difficulty level of the exam may include:

1. Natural Speaking Ability: Since the exam evaluates candidates' ability to speak naturally, it can be challenging for those who have not developed this skill.
2. Time Pressure: There is a requirement to answer questions within a certain time in each section. This tests candidates' ability to think quickly about topics and communicate effectively.
3. Subject Variety: A long list of subjects can be found in the IELTS Speaking section. Candidates must demonstrate their ability to speak on different themes, from general topics to cultural and social issues.
4. Exam Preparation: Those who have not effectively prepared for the speaking part of the exam may have difficulty understanding the exam format.

What to Do to Get a Good Score in the IELTS Speaking Section

Just like in any exam, the best way to improve your performance in the IELTS exam is through a consistent and effective preparation process. Additionally, engaging in targeted exercises and trying out similar practice tests will help you better prepare for the exam and regulate your stress. To improve your exam preparation, you can refer to IELTS instructors or language learning resources to improve your practice. Apart from these, you can also benefit from the recommendations we've compiled for you below:

1. Natural and Fluent Speech:
   • Try to use a natural speaking tone with the examiner.
   • Minimize interruptions and excessive repetition. However, in case of incomprehension, do not hesitate to repeat your sentence.
2. Using Various Language Structures:
   • Avoid repetitive language structures. Try to vary different language structures and vocabulary.
3. Being Calm and Controlled:
   • Keep your excitement under control and speak calmly.
   • Avoid speaking hastily. Answer the questions carefully and thoughtfully.
4. Giving Detailed and Interesting Answers:
   • Add details to your answers. Fill in the blanks and support your thoughts.
   • Enrich your answers by providing more information about the topics.
5. Answering Questions Completely and Clearly:
   • Understand the questions fully and answer exactly what is asked. Don't stray from the topic.
   • Answer questions descriptively, not just with yes or no.
6. Correct Grammar and Vocabulary Usage:
   • Pay attention to grammar rules and be careful to use various expressions in word selection.
   • When using difficult words, you should know their meaning and use them correctly.
7. How to Prepare Effectively in Part 2:
   • Carefully examine the topic card given to you in Part 2 and identify a few main ideas about the topic.
   • You can take notes during preparation time and quickly develop strategies.
8. Determining Strategy According to Question Type:
   • Develop strategies specific to each question type. For example, you may need to develop a different strategy when asked to talk about the advantages and disadvantages of a topic.
9. Getting Used to the Exam Format and Practicing:
   • Become familiar with the IELTS Speaking test format and know the next sections in advance.
   • Practice and get feedback on previous exam samples.
10. Recording Your Answers:
    • Listen to your answers by audio recording them. Work on intonation, stress and natural speech.