IELTS podcast

The other day I had a few minutes spare so I jumped into Twitter…. …and realized that English teachers ABSOLUTELY LOVE tweeting, - this is a hidden OASIS of language professionals.   I found CELTA, DELTA, TEFL, TOEFL and TESOL experts, all happily tweeting away, so after a few tweets I found a fantastic teacher, called Eric.   Here are two ‘gems’ from the interview: If you have an opinion, have a reason. If you made a decision, share the rationale, explain the consequences.      Listen to learn:   How to prepare for the IELTS speaking.   A tip to be more relaxed during the exam.   A methodology to follow to give solid answers. Phrases to explain points. How to make a good impression at the start. Practice doesn’t make perfect, it makes progress. The key to answering reflective questions. How to share a narrative. Follow a framework to give complete interesting answers. Visit Eric’s website for free chapters. Download the whole episode here, for free, then sign up.   The post 036 Always have something to say in the IELTS Speaking exam. appeared first on IELTS podcast.The post 036 Always have something to say in the IELTS Speaking exam. appeared first on IELTS podcast.

  In this episode Julia, (a CELTA and DELTA qualified tutor,) shares what to DO for Academic Task 1, including: A strategy for describing graphs (line, pie charts etc) A component you must have (without this you won’t get more than Band 5!) How to make relevant comparisons and contrasts. Tips for flow diagrams / cycles. How to experiment with complex vocabulary structures Tips for the language of change. …and what the Russians are notoriously famous for NOT doing!   After this we discus WHAT NOT TO DO IN THE EXAM…. DON’Ts: Include every single piece of data presented in the graph Why certain words should be avoided What data should NEVER be included. Download the whole episode here, for free. As you can see Julia is a very popular teacher:  Click here to visit Julia’s profile. She currently has a few spaces in her diary for IELTS tuition via Skype: juli_ivanes Download the whole episode here, for free, then sign up.   The post 035 Dos and Don’ts for Academic Task 1 appeared first on IELTS podcast.The post 035 Dos and Don’ts for Academic Task 1 appeared first on IELTS podcast.

Do you think skimming and scanning are the only skills to get you through the Reading?   Is reading every hour of every day going to help you pass the IELTS reading section?   Those certainly help, but the Band 9 students and quality teachers know a Band 9 comes from essential exam skills. You need these skills to kill this monster (IELTS), and move on.   Meet Anna Walker, one of the most helpful teachers I have spoken to so far. She explained a practical 4 step strategy, you can use today to score higher.   Anna Walker from Interactive With Languages   In this episode you will learn:   Which is more important: the question or the text? Which to do first: general questions or specific questions? The 4 Stages of passing a reading exam How to skim and scan successfully Why and how you MUST predict vocabulary and ideas. How to Tune into the Topic ©  Download the whole episode here, for free, then sign up.   The post 034 A Band Jumping Strategy for IELTS Reading. appeared first on IELTS podcast.The post 034 A Band Jumping Strategy for IELTS Reading. appeared first on IELTS podcast.

In this tutorial we look at an official IELTS Reading test, and go through how to answer every question. Including: How to skim and paraphrase. The importance of time, planning and pacing. The best preparation strategy How to match paragraphs and headings effectively. How to do True / False / Not given. How to fill tables.   Download it here: Ben Worthington Flickr Image The post 033 IELTS Reading Exam – Guidance and Advice appeared first on IELTS podcast.The post 033 IELTS Reading Exam – Guidance and Advice appeared first on IELTS podcast.

In this Podcast you will learn:   1) The different types of letter asked for. 2) How to answer and structure the question perfectly. 3) How to write in a formal / informal style. 4) PLENTY OF TIPS! 5) An exercise to do at home, (free correction from me). Here is the question with a model answer:   SAMPLE QUESTION: You recently bought a new computer for your flat but it did not work. You phoned the shop but no action was taken. Write a letter to the shop manager. In your letter • describe the problem with the computer • explain what happened’ when you phoned the shop • say what you would like the manager to do.   Dear Sir or Madam,   I am contacting you in relation to my recent purchase of an Acer 3001 laptop from your shop. Upon buying the product I was assured by the salesman that if there were any inconveniences I would be promptly attended to. Unfortunately this was not the case. Firstly, the computer screen failed to display in full colour, this was followed by repeated error messages, by which time the computer would usually freeze and crash.   After an afternoon of trying to fix the problem I called your helpline only to be placed in a queue for ten minutes then the line would disconnect. After several calls to the premium priced line I decided to contact you directly.   Due to all of these problems, including the lack of customer service I would like a full refund. I have already returned the laptop, with the receipt and original packaging. Please transfer the funds into the account number supplied.   Regards,   Richard Martin   Ben Worthington Flickr Image The post 032 How to Write a High Scoring Letter for Task 1 appeared first on IELTS podcast.The post 032 How to Write a High Scoring Letter for Task 1 appeared first on IELTS podcast.

  6 Powerful reasons to download the podcast:     1. You will learn how to understand native speakers.   2. Discover the biggest difference between IELTS and other English exams…   3. Why a monkey-mind will loose you points!   4. How to write and listen at the SAME TIME (vital skill!)   5. How to predict answers in the listening exam!   6. How to spot a very common trick during the exam. DOWNLOAD HERE: Ben Worthington Flickr Image The post 031 A little trick Examiners do in the IELTS Listening Exam appeared first on IELTS podcast.The post 031 A little trick Examiners do in the IELTS Listening Exam appeared first on IELTS podcast.

I would guess you are an auditory learner. Why? Because you chose to listen to a podcast you probably have a preference for learning in an auditory manner, rather than reading or watching a video (visual learners).   Therefore doing this exercise is A MUST!   You will see how it can improve your: Listening ability. Language processing. Note taking skills (great for the exam). Identifying topic.   Here is the essay that was used in the podcast:   Many governments in the world spend large amounts of money on art which helps to develop quality in people’s life. However, governments should spend money on other things rather than art.   Do you agree or disagree?   Give your opinion.   REMEMBER TO PASTE YOUR ESSAY BELOW AFTER DOING THE EXERCISE! Photo: Flickr Author: Ben Worthington Ben Worthington The post 030 Band 9 -Essay Writing Exercise appeared first on IELTS podcast.The post 030 Band 9 -Essay Writing Exercise appeared first on IELTS podcast.

If you have a rock solid essay plan, staring at blank pages becomes a thing of the past.    A rock solid essay plan will make sure you get full points for task response.   HOW DO YOU WRITE AN ESSAY PLAN?     100% Task Response Technique   STEP 1. Analyse the Question. Should museums and art galleries be free of charge for the general public, or should a charge, even a voluntary charge, be levied for admittance?   Discuss this issue, and give your opinion.   STEP 2. Separate the question to form P1 and P2.   Should museums and art galleries be free of charge for the general public,or should a charge, even a voluntary charge, be levied for admittance? Discuss this issue, and give your opinion.   STEP 3. Generate notes / argument around the question (your opinion, to what extent, discuss).   Introduction. Look at both sides, and conclude with a firm opinion in favour of free entry.   Paragraph 1+ Example. Should museums and art galleries be free of charge for the general public… Yes they should – helps educate society, equal access for everyone, + Example. City of Arts and Sciences, – local museum – free entry – so school children go…   Paragraph 2 + Example. …or should a charge, even a voluntary charge, be levied for admittance? Charging the visitors may raise additional funds which could help future exhibitions and contribute toward the upkeep of the institution. However, unless the price was high the amount would be negligible in relation to the costs. An expensive entry fee would also deter visitors making future exhibitions questionable. For example: the cost of taking a school group to a museum would be unacceptable and the children would suffer.   Conclusion   …..summary + give your opinion.   Listen to the Podcast here:   CLICK BELOW TO GET FREE ACCESS TO THE FULL TRANSCRIPT (With all the essay questions)   BEN WORTHINGTON ULURU:Flickr The post No more blank pages! IELTS Task 2. Easy 3 Step Essay Plan – Guaranteed! appeared first on IELTS podcast.The post No more blank pages! IELTS Task 2. Easy 3 Step Essay Plan – Guaranteed! appeared first on IELTS podcast.

On a Saturday not long ago, I met with the owner of an encyclopedic resource on IELTS; Mr, Dominic Cole. Dominic shares 3 speaking techniques. 1: Respond in the correct tense …. EVERY TIME. 2: How to find the PRECISE vocabulary for Part 2. 3: Why you should pace your self through the exam. AND: Why doing excessive speaking practice tests may hinder you. Summary of DC IELTS Interview:   WARNING: Doing too many practise questions is dangerous, it generates automatic responses.   Examiners aren’t impressed by automatic responses.   Natural responses impress the examiner.   Technique #1: How to find precise vocabulary (to score high).   For Part 2 just practise speaking for 2 minutes, it isn’t a presentation.   Think about describing picture, think of a picture when you are talking.   In the one minute preparation time, close your eyes and VISUALISE the topic you will speak about.     You will see what you want to say. All the vocabulary will be there.   The precisevocabulary (PERFECT FOR SCORING HIGH).     Technique #1 Reflective Listening   If you are less confident with your speaking abilities, you can listen carefully for the tense used by the examiner and reply in that exact tense.   Can you describe your favourite holiday destination? Yes I can, my favourite place to go on holiday is….   Will you be going there next year? Yes, we will, because there are ….   Following this rule you can not answer in the incorrect tense.   Learn this as a natural skill.   Technique #2 Exam pacing   Learn how to pace yourself for the exam.   For part one, don’t try too hard, save your energy for part 2 and 3.   Relax.   More difficult questions are asked in the later stages, you need to answer these well.   Make eye contact with the examiner, treat them as a friend.   Also learn words and phrases you personally like, and use them often so they become yours.   Listen here: Also check out the new transcript available:   Thanks Flickr   Ben Worthington The post 029 Three techniques for the speaking exam? appeared first on IELTS podcast.The post 029 Three techniques for the speaking exam? appeared first on IELTS podcast.

Do you need to pass the IELTS test right now?   Any student that needs a Band 7 or higher can listen and memorize this 3 step system, today.   Dear friend,   Did you know you could listen and memorize a system, that instantly improves your grade?   Also, did you know there are just 3 simple steps, with over 27 examples of how they are used?   Imagine been given a list of universal, high scoring essay plans that instantly improve your essay.   Hardly any students know about these plans, but if they are writing a lot they may accidentally find some, however, that is unlikely.   Also, if the idea of working hard and writing essays offends you ..please stop reading this now.   However, if you have dreamed about simple explanations for high scoring essays then this is probably the most exiting letter you will ever read.   Too many students don’t have a clue what to write, never mind where to write it.   This guide contains the most frequent and useful essay plans to instantly write clear coherent essays -it even includes a free essay correction TO GUARANTEE YOU IMPROVE.   Having a detailed guide will reduce your study time drastically.   First you memorise the plan, then apply it to your task two question, it’s really quite simple, but incredibly effective. Basically, you learn the structures that score you points and writing a clear, coherent essay becomes effortless.   Why bother trying to invent a high scoring introduction? Just follow the plan, save valuable time, and get started…immediately.   There are 3 introduction ‘plans’ that immediately impress the examiner, they start your essay the best way possible. You simply memorise the structure and adapt it to whatever topic is.   Then there are 4 plans for the body paragraphs, – ranging from opinion essays to contrasting an argument. Memorize all 4 and be confident on exam day. The essay almost writes itself.   No More Frustration! Confusion disappears!   Do you think you could memorise 4 solid essay plans and apply them in the exam?   Do you have around 40 minutes to listen to the instructions  in the guide, and then start writing?   Not only this, there is also an opportunity to test how well you use these sentences once you have learned them. HOW CAN I BE SURE THIS GUIDE WORKS?    Unlike other guides, with mine you have your essay checked. You get feedback, you discover your errors and know exactly what to study  - this is essential if you want to improve.   ”Because of your Sentence Guide, I was able to pass today with a Band 7! Thank you so much for all your hard work Ben…you have no idea how much you are helping us out’ – Lee.   ‘I passed the test today! Thanks to you. I bought your Sentence Guide and it was VERY helpful’ Mary.   ‘Thanks a lot for making this, it easy to follow. Thank you Ben, you are much supported’. Anya   ”Your guide helped me a lot, I only prepare in one week and start your guide week before the test, I passed. I will recommend you to other test takers’ – Keshab.   ”The guide is perfect. Exactly what I needed. I have printed it and use it on the bus and train. I look forward to more work, thank you’. – Carolina.   On a Saturday afternoon, not too long ago, after writing my sixth essay of the day I realised that all of the essays had something in common. After writing another 57 essays I found that I could write essays just using these sentence structures and phrases.   I have been teaching this method now for about a year and slowly perfecting it, finally I have it down to 4 powerful universal plans. My students listen to the guide, memorise the instructions (which aren’t difficult), then follow a step by step system to quickly produce band jumping essays.   You have email support at every step. You[...]

AFTER THE SLIDESHARE: CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE Combining ALL THREE METHODS in one exercise, you save HOURS in IELTS Preparation.   The post 027: Most IELTS Students Score Less than a Band 7. – – – 3 Tips to Avoid Doing the Same. appeared first on IELTS podcast.The post 027: Most IELTS Students Score Less than a Band 7. – – – 3 Tips to Avoid Doing the Same. appeared first on IELTS podcast.

In this podcast Dominic Cole from the distinguished DCIELTS.com shares his expert advice for IELTS re-takers and great detailed tips for the reading section.    What to do if you have taken the IELTS exam more than once. The three skills you need for the Reading. The problem with Reading isn’t TIME. Why looking for key words creates problems. How to identify where the answers are. How to understand the whole text… QUICKLY. How to make more intelligent guesses. How to process and understand the text? Why rhythm can help you.   Dominic recommends taking a step back and focussing on general skills.   Find a teacher who can conduct a needs analysis to identify specific skills you needs.   Study the criteria required for your target band score.   The problem with Reading isn’t TIME. It’s efficiency. Texts are long and complex. They have to be read both quickly and effectively.   You need three skills for the IELTS Reading 1. Scanning – to identify WHERE the answer is. 2. Skimming – reading the whole text to understand quickly. 3. Close Reading -when you identify where the answer GO BACK and read the ENTIRE question again, to be certain to answer the WHOLE question.   Skimming helps in two ways: 1. Helps because you know where to look for the answer. 2. At some stage you maybe guessing, so by reading the whole text you will be able to make more intelligent guessing.   Extremely important. Find out what works for you. Test different methods…   Develop your speed reading skills, especially skimming.   While skimming make notes and underline as you progress. This way you process ad understand the text, make it your own.   If you are uncertain of an answer then place a light question mark or signal so you know too go back to it later.   Don’t get stuck on one question, keep moving, keep a rhythm.   Develop your timing.   By the last set of questions you should be more familiar with the text and should be able to find the answers quicker than at the beginning.   One way to increase reading speed is to listen and read at the same time.   [quicksubscribe]   The post 026 Have you taken the IELTS Exam more than once? appeared first on IELTS podcast.The post 026 Have you taken the IELTS Exam more than once? appeared first on IELTS podcast.

Meet JoeMcVeigh, not only does he co-author textbooks, he is an English language consultant.   He has over 25 years experience ranging from designing curricula, training trainers, and administering intensive English language programmes. This podcast will be very helpful if you are considering doing an intensive language course, or you would like to learn English fast.   I asked Joe some of the following questions:   How can a student spend 6 years learning English and finish without being able to speak a word? (Common in some EU and Asian countries). What kind of programme would you design for an international student who is about to start in higher education? What areas would take precedence? Could you share your opinion on the use of IEP to prepare for official exams, such as the TOEFL or IELTS? What would a student be wise looking for when assessing purchasing a course? Sometimes I tell my students not to do IEPs because of their effectiveness. One student went to Dublin, spent two weeks learning grammar, he was around eight other non-English speakers, he said he tried to socialise with the locals but he couldn’t understand them. My student came back depressed and with €2000 less in his pocket. Could you share your thoughts on this please. What is the goal of an IEP and how is it achieved? Do IEPs decrease the amount of time required to learn a language? How would a student learn English fast?   Remember to sign up if you want more pdocasts (it’s free!) [quicksubscribe]  The post 025 Is an Intensive English Course for You? + How to learn English FAST. appeared first on IELTS podcast.The post 025 Is an Intensive English Course for You? + How to learn English FAST. appeared first on IELTS podcast.

  Meet Maggie, course organiser for the English foundation programme at York St John’s university.    We have a great conversation about the challenges international students face and the best strategies to overcome them.  In this podcast you will learn: How to survive in a foreign university.   Why a high score in the IELTS doesn’t guarantee an easy life at university     The skills you need for higher education, after IELTS.  The one skill that will help you at university and for the IELTS   For weekly IELTS tips in your inbox just enter your email.  [quicksubscribe] The post 024 How to get into a university without IELTS? appeared first on IELTS podcast.The post 024 How to get into a university without IELTS? appeared first on IELTS podcast.

Are you stuck at 6.5 in the writing? Learn what the examiner is expecting. Learn how to plan an essay? How to write faster for the exam? How one student jumped from a band 6.5 to 7.5. How to overcome nerves in the speaking test. And get news about the new 12 week course, available here. Learn more…   This course will: Test your overall English level against the IELTS band you want Approach each test effectively with effective techniques explained and tips on how to make sure you can use these Practise actual IELTS exercises with each technique to make sure you really understand how these work Find speaking partners to practise online and improve speaking skills Share your work with other IELTS students and teachers so that you can improve your skills and discuss these techniques and approaches Get real support when you need it from experienced IELTS teachers.  LEARN MORE The post Ex-IELTS Examiner: jump from a 6.5 to a 7.5 (only at IELTSPodcast.com) appeared first on IELTS podcast.The post Ex-IELTS Examiner: jump from a 6.5 to a 7.5 (only at IELTSPodcast.com) appeared first on IELTS podcast.