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IELTS Podcast

IELTS Podcast

Ben Worthington

Pass IELTS with expert help.

756 - General Task 1 – Your 16 Minute Crash Course
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  • 756 - General Task 1 – Your 16 Minute Crash Course

    Lesson 1: The Structure
    A well-structured essay is essential for a high score in the IELTS writing test. Follow these guidelines:

    * Introduction: Begin with a clear introduction that states the main topic and outlines the main points you will discuss.
    * Body Paragraphs: Each paragraph should focus on a single point, supported by examples or evidence. Ensure smooth transitions between paragraphs.
    * Conclusion: Summarise the key points made in the essay and restate your position or opinion if applicable.

    Learn more about structuring your essay at IELTSpodcast Essay Structure.
    Lesson 2: The Phrases
    Using the right phrases can enhance the clarity and professionalism of your writing. Consider these tips:

    * Linking Words: Use phrases like “however,” “therefore,” “furthermore,” and “in addition” to connect ideas.
    * Paraphrasing: Avoid repeating words and phrases. Use synonyms and rephrase sentences to show your range of vocabulary.
    * Formal Language: In formal writing, avoid contractions and colloquial language. Use more sophisticated vocabulary where appropriate.

    Expand your phrase list with IELTSpodcast Useful Phrases.
    Lesson 3: Formal vs Informal
    Understanding the difference between formal and informal writing is crucial, especially for the General Training test. Here are some guidelines:

    * Formal Writing: Use it in academic and official contexts. It includes passive constructions, sophisticated vocabulary, and no contractions.
    * Informal Writing: Suitable for personal letters and casual correspondence. It includes colloquial expressions, phrasal verbs, and a conversational tone.
    * Audience Consideration: Tailor your language style based on who will read your writing, whether it’s an examiner, a colleague, or a friend.

    Explore more on this topic at IELTSpodcast Formal vs Informal.
    Lesson 4: Exercises
    Practising regularly can significantly improve your writing skills. Here are some exercises to consider:

    * Writing Practice: Set aside time daily to write essays, letters, or reports. Focus on different topics and question types.
    * Peer Review: Swap essays with peers to provide and receive constructive feedback on various aspects of writing.
    * Sample Essays: Read and analyse sample essays to understand the structure, vocabulary, and techniques used by high-scoring candidates.

    Find practice materials and exercises at IELTSpodcast Sample Essays.
    Lesson 5: The Phrases Review
    Reviewing commonly used phrases is essential to ensure clarity and effectiveness in communication. Focus on:

    * Linking Words Review: Consistently review and expand your list of linking words to enhance the flow of your writing.
    * Common Phrases: Memorise phrases for introducing points, giving examples, and concluding arguments. This helps in writing under time pressure.
    * Check for Repetition: Review your essays to ensure a varied vocabulary and avoid overusing the same phrases or words.

    For a comprehensive list, visit IELTSpodcast Phrases Review.
    You can download or listen to the audio version here:
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    Tue, 12 Nov 2024 - 17min
  • 755 - Ana gets 7.5 in the Writing and Asks for a Remark in Speaking

    From Struggle to Success: Anna’s IELTS Journey
    Meet Anna, a determined student who faced the challenge of taking the IELTS exam. Like many of you, she needed a high score to follow her dreams of moving to Canada. At first, the task seemed impossible, but Anna’s story shows that with the right mindset and preparation, anyone can succeed!
    The Rocky Start
    When Anna began, she didn’t know much about IELTS. She thought her English skills would be enough, but soon realised that IELTS needs special preparation. “It’s not just an English exam,” Anna said. “It’s an exam you have to be ready for.”
    Finding the Right Tools
    Anna discovered helpful resources, including podcasts and online courses. She found that paying for an essay correction service motivated her to practice regularly. “I paid money, so I felt that I must do it,” she explained.
    The Power of Daily Practice
    After her first attempt didn’t go as planned, Anna didn’t give up. Instead, she followed advice from a podcast: write an essay every day. “I started to write Task 1 and Task 2 every day for about two months,” she shared. This dedication helped her improve dramatically.
    The Amazing Turnaround
    In her second attempt, Anna’s hard work paid off. She finished the writing section with time to spare! “I just wrote without any hesitation,” she said proudly. Her writing score jumped from 6.5 to 7.5.
    Never Give Up
    Even when faced with a disappointing speaking score, Anna didn’t lose hope. She asked for a remark, and her score was raised from 6.5 to 7. This small change made a big difference in her overall results.
    Anna’s Message to You
    Anna wants all IELTS students to know: “If I could do it, anyone can do it!” She believes that with the right preparation and guidance, success is possible for everyone.
    Ready to Start Your IELTS Journey?
    Anna’s story shows that IELTS success is within your reach. Why not start your journey today? Our courses offer the same tools and support that helped Anna achieve her goals. Don’t wait – take the first step towards your dreams now!
    Start Your IELTS Preparation Today!
     
    You can download or listen to the audio version here:
    |Direct Download Here | Stitcher | iTunes | Spotify | Soundcloud |

     

    Mon, 11 Nov 2024 - 23min
  • 754 - IELTS Speaking: How to Use Discourse Markers (Advanced)

     

    Mastering Discourse Markers for a High IELTS Score
    Hello, aspiring IELTS students! Welcome to another insightful tutorial. My name is Ben Worthington, and today we’re delving into the world of discourse markers. If you’re aiming for a Band 7 or higher, understanding and effectively using discourse markers is crucial. These linguistic tools are key to showcasing fluency and cohesion, particularly in the speaking section of the IELTS exam.
    Understanding Discourse Markers
    According to the official IELTS criteria under the fluency and cohesion category, achieving a Band 7 or above requires candidates to use a range of connectives and discourse markers with flexibility. But what exactly are discourse markers? They are often referred to as signposts or sequencing language. These words and phrases help listeners identify changes in attitude, direction, or perspective during a conversation.
    At a basic level, discourse markers include phrases like “in my opinion”, “finally”, or “next”. While these are common, aiming for a higher score means incorporating a wider variety of these markers. For a deeper dive into understanding discourse markers, check out our guide on IELTS Speaking Discourse Markers.
    Examples of Advanced Discourse Markers
    Let’s explore some sophisticated discourse markers to elevate your speaking. Here are a few to express agreement: “absolutely”, “certainly”, “definitely”. However, it’s important to use a range of expressions. Repeating the same phrase can become monotonous and might limit your score.
    When expressing attitudes, consider using phrases like:

    * To tell you the truth: “To tell you the truth, I don’t actually read a lot.”
    * I must admit: “I must admit, I have a strong preference for the countryside over the city.”
    * To be honest: “To be honest, I hardly ever swim.”
    * Ideally: “Ideally, I would be reading every day.”

    These markers not only help in expressing your thoughts but also make your speech sound more natural and provide extra thinking time. This flexibility in language use is what the examiners are looking for, especially in parts one and three of the speaking test.
    Practical Application in IELTS Speaking
    Incorporating these expressions into your everyday language can significantly improve your fluency. For instance, if asked about your hometown, you might say, “Certainly, I love Huddersfield. It’s one of the best towns in the world.” Even if your hometown doesn’t have the best reputation, as in this case, the use of confident and varied expressions demonstrates a high level of proficiency.
    For more examples and practice, visit our IELTS Speaking Part 1 Questions page. You can also find a comprehensive list of discourse markers and how to use them effectively.
    Final Tips and Encouragement
    In conclusion, mastering discourse markers is not just about passing the IELTS exam; it’s also about enhancing your overall communication skills. Try to integrate these expressions into your daily conversations. It could be as simple as saying, “Actually, to tell you the truth, I prefer the blue one,” while shopping. This practice will make these phrases second nature and help you perform more confidently during the exam.
    If you found this tutorial helpful, share it with others who are preparing for the IELTS. For more resources, including a big PDF full of IELTS materials, visit IELTSpodcast.com.

    Mon, 11 Nov 2024 - 8min
  • 753 - Speaking Confidence – Your 23 Minute Crash Course

    Confidence and Fluency – Common Issues, Reasons, Mindset
    Confidence and fluency are critical in the IELTS Speaking test. Address common issues and adopt the right mindset:

    * Identify Common Issues: Recognise areas where you lack confidence, such as pronunciation or vocabulary.
    * Understand the Reasons: Pinpoint why these issues occur—nervousness, lack of practice, or unfamiliarity with the test format.
    * Adopt a Positive Mindset: Believe in your abilities and view the test as an opportunity to showcase your skills, not as a threat.

    Explore strategies to boost confidence at IELTSpodcast Confidence and Fluency.
    Confidence and Fluency – Readiness Test / Quick Questions
    Assessing your readiness through quick questions can help identify areas for improvement:

    * Readiness Test: Take a practice test to gauge your current level and identify weaknesses.
    * Quick Questions: Practice with common IELTS Speaking questions to become comfortable with spontaneous answers.
    * Feedback: Seek feedback from teachers or peers to fine-tune your responses and improve fluency.

    For practice questions, visit IELTSpodcast Quick Questions.
    Overview of Part 1
    Part 1 in the IELTS Speaking test involves answering general questions about yourself and familiar topics:

    * Personal Information: Be prepared to discuss your work, studies, hobbies, and interests.
    * Everyday Topics: Topics may include your hometown, lifestyle, and experiences. Answer clearly and concisely.
    * Practice and Preparation: Regularly practice answering these questions to build confidence and fluency.

    Questions You Should Be Able to Answer About Home Country
    Discussing your home country can be a common topic. Be ready with informative and insightful responses:

    * Cultural Aspects: Be prepared to talk about traditions, festivals, and cultural practices in your country.
    * Geography and History: Discuss geographical features, historical events, and significant figures.
    * Current Issues: Stay informed about current events and social issues in your country.

    Find tips on how to answer these questions at IELTSpodcast Home Country Questions.
    A Presentation, Get Ready, Master This Skill!
    Giving a presentation can be part of the speaking test. Mastering this skill involves:

    * Structure Your Talk: Have a clear introduction, body, and conclusion. Practice delivering your talk confidently.
    * Engage Your Audience: Use eye contact, gestures, and voice modulation to keep your audience engaged.
    * Practice Regularly: The more you practice, the more comfortable you will become with speaking at length.

    For presentation tips, visit IELTSpodcast Presentation Skills.
    IELTS Speaking Part 2 – Exercise with Cue Cards
    Part 2 of the IELTS Speaking test involves speaking on a topic given on a cue card. Prepare effectively by:

    * Practice with Cue Cards: Use cue cards to simulate the test and practice speaking on various topics.
    * Organise Your Thoughts: Take a minute to prepare and structure your response before you start speaking.
    * Develop Your Answer: Provide detailed responses, including personal experiences and examples.

    Explore exercises with cue cards at

    Sun, 03 Nov 2024 - 23min
  • 752 - Band 9 IELTS Pronunciation: A Comprehensive Guide

    If you’re aiming for a Band 9 in the IELTS speaking section, mastering pronunciation is crucial. In this detailed guide, Ben Worthington, a seasoned IELTS expert from the IELTSPodcast, shares essential strategies for achieving impeccable pronunciation.
    Key Features of Band 9 Pronunciation
    Band 9 candidates exhibit a full range of pronunciation features with precision and subtlety. These include the correct pronunciation of individual sounds, effective word and sentence stress, and dynamic intonation. These features ensure that your speech is not only accurate but also engaging and clear to the listener.
    Understanding Individual Sounds
    Perfecting individual sounds is foundational for clear communication. This includes mastering vowels and consonants, and understanding their use in various word formations. As Ben highlights, even native English accents like his Yorkshire accent had to be adjusted to ensure clarity—illustrating the importance of adaptability in pronunciation regardless of your native language or dialect.
    Word and Sentence Stress
    Stress plays a crucial role in conveying meaning. Misplaced stress can lead to misunderstandings or ambiguity. Ben suggests practicing with phrases where stress can alter meaning, like the difference between ‘record’ (a noun) and ‘record’ (a verb). Such practice helps to understand how stress impacts meaning in English.
    Mastering Intonation
    Intonation, the rise and fall of voice in speaking, helps convey attitudes and emotions. It is essential for questions, statements, and expressing certainty or doubt. For non-native speakers, this might feel exaggerated, but it is critical for natural and effective speech. Ben’s teaching experience in Spain using intonation drills underscores its importance in real-world communication.
    Practical Tips to Enhance Pronunciation

    * Record and Review: Regularly record your speech and critically listen back to identify areas for improvement.
    * Practice with Real Conversations: Engage in telephone conversations or ask questions in English to native speakers. This real-world practice is invaluable.
    * Focus on Problematic Sounds: Pay particular attention to sounds that are challenging due to your native language influences.

    Next Steps for Practice
    Ben recommends taking proactive steps to practice speaking as often as possible. This includes making phone calls in English and using situations like shopping or daily planning to think and speak in English. Continuous practice is key to moving from structured practice to natural, fluent speech.
    Conclusion
    Achieving Band 9 in pronunciation requires understanding the nuances of English pronunciation and consistent practice. By focusing on the specifics of sound production, stress, and intonation, and by implementing Ben’s practical tips, you can significantly improve your speaking skills and increase your IELTS band score.
    For more resources on mastering IELTS pronunciation, visit the IELTS Pronunciation Guide and consider enrolling in the Online IELTS Course for structured learning and feedback.

     

    Thu, 31 Oct 2024
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