This would be my second attempt:
In my previous attempt i did some homework and probably that was why I was able to score 7.5 but got hit on Listening part. Since I am applying through EE, I needed 8,7,7,7.(L,R,S,W)
I used much of the stuff from online and practised through books as well ( and let me tell you practising reading through books gives you a practical exposure which online would not. The point I am trying to make here is since the test would be with hard copies, there is no point practising it online becoz there are lot many things you might want to test yourself on along with reading(some tricks, screening, skimming etc).
I started my prep almost 20 days ago and focused mostly on Reading & listening at first since they seem bit tricky to me.
For Listening & Reading : Though there were many practice tests given in the books but there is certainly some additional homework that you may want to do so I searched much of that online as well. Sharing some useful websites, apps below:
Websites:
The websites contains lot of material for practising everything including tips and tricks.
http://ielts-up.com/listening/ielts-listening-practice.html
http://www.ielts-mentor.com/listening-sample/208-ielts-listening-sample-1
You Tube:
Both the channels are worth following since the speakers are very experienced and specific about requirements, do's & dont's including last days tips(dont miss them)
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVBErcpqaokOf4fI5j73K_w
https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=liz+ielts+
Apps:
Specifically for listening, on the go material, put your headphones on and practice.
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.ubl.ielts
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=hk.hkbc.epodcast
Though I have mentioned about very useful websites, apps and YouTube channels, if you want, you may also consider purchasing some books and going through that. When i was attempting the first time, I never got any insight of the books in any posts here or elsewhere, however many of them were mentioned.
Apart from your BC/IDP books, you may want to consider buying BARRON's and book by Pauline Cullen- Cambridge English
One thing about Barrons is it gives a breakdown of the sub sections of all tests(L,R,S,W) which is of great help. I haven't seen in any other book
Speaking:
Most of the material from practise standpoint is available either in books or online in the same links as mentioned above but what is more important is, when you prepare and general topic- Tourism, values in families etc, prepare against the motion and in the motion as well. You may get some topic which you have prepared well but will have to speak against the motion. Like, I was asked about Tourism but was asked to speak about places where tourist would not want to go and i was Blank for 2 seconds and had to cook up a story.
Q Card: Make sure you answer all questions mentioned at first else you will skip and time will run like a anything.
Also, if you are working and deal with US, UK geography people or if you are Regional person but use 100% English at your work place, you will be able to get through this. Its Just cooking up story, making sense but being confident.
Writing:
Task 1: Here you will get a letter, formal, informal which is like good to attempt in 20 mins given but take care of the structure and grammar along with salutation, ending.
Task 2: A general topic to write and essay on within the word limit. Again, be specific, Introduce the topic at first, make sure use paragraphs and CONCLUDE for sure. You may find some topics wherein you may want to write against the motion or for the motion but make your stand very clear and when you conclude, make sure it is matching with the introduction you gave (thats a trick).
You have options to write with pen or pencil, i preferred pencil since it gave me opportunities to make correction, when i was finally checking and could correct lot of grammatical mistakes
Scores: I am sure you would know what scores you need ( not talking about bands but scores for each section which concludes to marks, if NOT, please do check online.
Some Useful Tips:
- If there is a requirement to have the IELTS scores for your spouse as well, would suggest to book test for same date and practise along. Its a GREAT help for each other.
- For
Listening & reading, in your final week of test, practice more on getting first 20 questions correct, this will help you to put your strategies in right direction on final day
- Fix your time for preparation, which part of the day you see if fine.
- Get accustomed to the time limit as well when you practice, example, when you practice listening, take one complete test at once and monitor your time. it will help.
- Watch BBC, CNN if you want to practice listening
- For speaking and writing, would suggest to practice on BRAINSTORMING the topics not actually writing the whole thing(if you really need a practice, you may want to write the entire thing. Again, its about putting your strategy, you have bullet points collected through brainstorming, you just need to expand those.
Hope this post is helpful. Please feel free to add/comment on any changes. All the best to Everyone !
Regards
Gary
