Feedback on IELTS test performance

Cristina, a nurse in the Philippines, needs to get band score 7 in speaking with an overall score of at least 6.5 in IELTS (International English Language Testing System). She wrote this:

“I took IELTS twice in the last few weeks, and I managed to improve my writing score from 6.5 to 7.0. Sadly, however, I got 6.5 for speaking both times.

“Can the test centre give me feedback on specific aspects in the ielts speaking test?”

Here’s my reply: There’s no doubt that you need well-developed English skills to get band 7 in any skill area (listening, reading, writing and speaking).

However, as you’ve found, it’s particularly challenging to get a high band score in the ielts speaking test. That’s partly because it’s a productive skill and not a receptive skill.

Skim reading : a key skill Improving your skim reading skills takes time and effort

Most candidates who’ve done the academic version of IELTS (International English Language Testing System) say the reading test was the most difficult of the four modules.

The academic reading test assesses whether your reading skills are developed enough to succeed in studies in English at an undergraduate or postgraduate level.

If you’re a professional, such as a doctor or a lawyer, you may also need to do the test to see if your language skills are developed enough for you to work in an English language environment.

Many candidates want IELTS band score 6.0 in the reading test, but some need 7.0 or even higher. This can be very challenging.

Most candidates find the first of the three reading passages is difficult, and the next two passages are always harder.

Still, it’s possible to get a very good band score. Of course, you must have fairly good English grammar and vocabulary to do well. Just as important, though, are well-developed reading skills.