IELTS Speaking Test Format

Part 1

Introduction & Interview

• Test taker & examiner introduces themselves
• Examiner asks general questions on topics related to personal interest, work, hometown, studies and family
• Lasts for 4-5 minutes

Skills Assessed

• Ability to convey ideas and views on daily topics, circumstances or common experiences by answering a range of questions

Part 2

Long Turn

• A cue card is given to you
• 1 minute is provided to prepare for the topic provided in the cue card and note down points if you wish to
• You then have to speak on that topic for 1-2 minutes
• Lasts for 3-4 minutes

Skills Assessed

• Ability to speak at length on a given topic using appropriate language

Part 3

Discussion

• The examiner ask questions based on the topic given in Part 2
• You get a chance to express your views in a more abstract way
• Lasts for 4-5 minutes

Skills Assessed

• Ability to analyse the topic, express views, justify opinion, organise and evaluate ideas

Scoring Criterion

IELTS Speaking scoring Criteria on which the speaking test is scored depends on the following factors:

• Fluency & Coherence
• Lexical Resource
• Grammar & Accuracy
• Pronunciation

Fluency refers to how well you can speak at a normal speed and that too without hesitation.

Coherence is framing your sentences and ideas in a logical order.

Lexical Resource assesses the range of your vocabulary.

Grammatical Range & Accuracy deals with your knowledge about grammar and how accurately you use it while speaking.

Pronunciation points out your ability to speak.

General Tips

• Relax, be confident and speak naturally
• Be spontaneous and talk as fluently as you can
• Develop your answers. Don’t speak pre-prepared answers
• Ask for clarification if necessary
• Express your opinions clearly

There are many IELTS speaking mock tests available online that make you aware of the type of IELTS Speaking questions and IELTS Speaking topics. Utilize the resources available and benefit from them. Practise speaking in English with your friends, relatives or colleagues on daily basis to ensure better performance.