IELTS
We often hear about “IELTS”. But many aspirants have no clear idea about IELTS. In this post you will find out more about what IELTS is, what are the benefits of IELTS, etc.
What is IELTS?
The International English Language Testing System, abbreviated as ILTS, is one of the most popular English language proficiency tests in the world. The test was designed to assess what kind of practical skills a person has in English. The results of this test are evaluated on the basis of reading, writing, listening, speaking.
This IELTS test is a measure of how well a non-English speaker can adapt in places where most people speak English. This test verifies the English language required for studying, working or living in the specified environment. This test can be taken at any official test center in the world.
Why do ILTS
The main reason for taking the IELTS test is to go abroad for work, study or living. This English language proficiency test system is recognized by more than 11,000 organizations in more than 140 countries around the world. There are 3,000 such employers in the United States alone.
In countries where English is the main and common language, it is compulsory to take the IELTS test before going for a job or study. In these countries, the ILTS test is used to determine how proficient you are in English in an English-speaking environment.
ILTS test format
Got a general idea about ILTS. Now let us know how and what IELTS test is based on.
ILTS exams are conducted in general or academic modules. In both the modules, a total of four subjects, namely: listening, writing, reading and speaking skills are tested. Listening, reading and writing exams are held on the same day. On the other hand, the speaking test is given on any given day. That means you have to participate in the ILTS exam for two days. The total time allotted for this test is 2 hours 45 minutes.
The test time for writing is 60 minutes. This one hour test will test your English writing skills. In the case of writing, two questions have to be answered, the first of which is to analyze the information contained in a chart, flow, diagram, map or graph in English. The second question will have an opinion which will have to be presented in English for and against. Note that the mark of the second question tends to be higher.
First you have to write the answer to the question in 150 words. The answer to the second question should be written at least 250 words. More words can be used than the number of words mentioned, but in no case should there be less words. The second question is general and academic, the same in both modules but there are some differences in the first question. In the general module, the first question is to write a formal or personal letter.
What is IELTS? Does ILTS work?
Speaking
Your English speaking skills will be tested through a speaking test. This test of only 10-15 minutes is a test of how well you can speak English fluently. A trainer will talk to you about this part of the ILTS exam. He or she will ask you for personal information, such as where you live, a description of your city, what your favorite color is and why, and so on.
If you can answer these very simple questions in English, you can pass this test. This is the first part of the speaking test. In the second part of speaking, you will be asked to talk for a while about any specific topic. Finally, some questions will be asked on the given topic.
Listening
The total duration of the listening test is 30 minutes. During this time you will be given 4 records, from which some questions will be asked and the answer to the question will be written in the answer sheet. Note that a record will only be played once. So it will be very difficult to answer the question if you do not listen with full attention.
Reading
In the case of reading test, the ability to get enough idea about a subject is tested. In the case of reading test, a total of 40 questions have to be answered within 60 minutes. There are some differences between the general and academic modules in the reading test.
In case of academic module, three long articles from journals, magazines, books or journals will be given from which to find the answer to the question. This article or section needs sources or references that appear in credible, third-party publications. On the other hand, in the case of general modules, even if the text is removed from magazines, journals, advertisements, handouts or books, it is kept relatively simple from academic.
ILTS grading system
In case of ILTS exam, there is no specific number on the side. Scores are given here instead of numbers. Participants get a score of 1-9 based on the given test. The average of the numbers obtained in the four tests is called the overall band score. A score of 8 or above is considered a good band score.
ILTS preparation
If you want, you can prepare for ILTS at home. The coaching centers basically teach some extra techniques,
You have to take care of yourself. Anyone using the internet can participate in the ILTS exam in addition to coaching. Mock tests can be given to verify preparation for the test.
Participate in IELTS test
Participating in the ILTS exam is but quite easy. The test can be taken under IDP or the British Council. In Bangladesh, there are British Council Test Centers at Taka, Chittagong, Sylhet and Rajshahi where you can take the IELTS test by contacting. Registration can be done directly at the test center or online.