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Mastering the IELTS Speaking Test with 10 Savvy Tips

Writer's picture: Thomas OxfordThomas Oxford

Updated: Oct 3, 2023



So, you're gearing up for that nerve-wracking IELTS speaking test? Fear not, because I've got a bag full of tricks to help you ace it like a pro. Just remember, it's not about memorizing robotic answers or pleasing the examiner. Here's a whimsical twist on the ten essential tips you need, rearranged to keep you entertained:


1. Don't be late

First things first, don't be the tardy traveller who rushes in flustered and sweaty. Get to the exam centre with time to spare. It's like arriving early at a party; you'll feel more at ease.


2. Don't prioritize grammar over fluency

Grammar nerds, this one's for you. While we applaud your enthusiasm for verb tenses, don't get too caught up. Balance your quest for grammatical perfection with a dose of fluency. Think of it as a linguistic seesaw – find your equilibrium.


3. Don't get too nervous

The butterflies in your stomach are just there to remind you that you're alive! Nervousness is natural, but don't let it turn you into a shy whisperer or a mumbling mess. Proper preparation will pump up your confidence.


4. Don't worry about your accent

Accent anxiety? Relax! Whether you're dreaming of sounding like James Bond or Marilyn Monroe, your accent doesn't matter as long as it doesn't make you sound like a Martian. Embrace your unique voice and enunciate clearly.


5. Don't show off your grammar

Leave the fancy grammar tricks to Shakespeare. Stick to what you know and use the appropriate tenses for the task at hand. You wouldn't use a flamethrower to light a candle, would you?


6. Don't insert lots of 'big' words

You don't need to sound like a walking thesaurus. Using ostentatious vocabulary might backfire if you're not entirely sure what those 'big' words mean. Stick with words you can confidently define.


7. Don't worry about the examiner's opinion

The examiner is not your BFF, so don't fret about them nodding in agreement with your views. They're only interested in your language skills, not your personal philosophy.


8. Don't rely on the examiner

Imagine the examiner as your friendly neighbourhood referee – they won't blow the whistle if you stray offside. You're in control of your speaking destiny, so stay on topic and don't expect a helping hand.


9. Don't memorize answers

It's not a Hollywood script; memorized responses are a dead giveaway. Examiners have a sixth sense for this, and they'll throw curveballs your way if you try to pull a fast one.


10. Don't say nothing

Silence isn't golden in this scenario. Even if you're as clueless as a fish out of water, take a leap of faith and give it a go. It's better to stumble than to stand still.


Voila! Now you're ready to dazzle the IELTS speaking test with your newfound wisdom. Remember, it's not about perfection; it's about showcasing your linguistic prowess.


Interesting Phrases and Vocabulary:


  • Linguistic seesaw: A balance between grammar and fluency in language.

  • Accent anxiety: Concern about one's pronunciation and regional accent.

  • Ostentatious vocabulary: The use of overly fancy or showy words.

  • Pull a fast one: Attempt to deceive or cheat.

  • Clueless as a fish out of water: Completely unaware or unprepared in a situation.

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About the Author:

 

Tom Oxford has been teaching English as a second language since 2005 and has been specialising in IELTS preparation courses for more than five years.

IELTS Tom is a private, online English language school that has been offering first-class education since 2015

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