Our previous articles on IELTS reading , writing and speaking tests have given you a broad introduction to IELTS exams and University requirements. This article will help you to get yourself prepared to score a higher mark for the listening element of IELTS exam .
Some students find listening test as a challenge. No matter how fluent you could be if you do not have the skill of understanding the content just by listening you may lose marks on this component. Some students are not good listeners or may lose concentration in seconds however listening is a skill that can be improved. Therefore, this article will be useful for you in scoring a higher band for listening test.
What is a Listening Test in IELTS?
Listening test is 30 minutes long in duration and comprises four sections. You will also be given extra 10 minute of transfer time to transfer the answers to the answer sheet. It is important to listen carefully to the instructions given before each section of the test. There are 40 questions altogether and each question carries one mark. You are supposed to answer in the question paper during the test and then transfer the answers to the answer sheet at the end of the test.
Section 1 –It is a conversation between two people that may take place in everyday life.
Section 2 – It is a monologue set in an everyday social context
Section 3 – It is a conversation between up to four people in an education or training context
Section 4 – It is a monologue on an academic subject
Tips to use at the exam
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Firstly it is important to stay calm and relaxed during the exam and maintain focus and concentration.
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At the beginning of each section read the question paper before the recording starts. You will then know what questions are asked and will be able to identify the answers easily.
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Always listen carefully and, maintain your focus throughout the test.
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Emphasize on the words such as ‘firstly’, ‘next point’, ‘to sum up with’ to understand which stage of the recording you are in and subsequently to identify the questions that you have already reached.
If you were not very successful in grabbing the answers for one section, do not keep thinking about it. Prepare for the next section and be focused.
How to get ready for the test?
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The most effective way of getting prepared for the test is to practice transcribing what you hear. Listen to some recordings and write down the full text. This will help you to improve your listening skill.
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Practice as many previous tests as possible.
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When you do the mock tests cross check your answers with the official answers given. Mark down the mistakes you have done and analyze what made you get it wrong.
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Listen to the difficult parts again and again and understand the level of your listening skill and take action to improve it.
Listening test is actually a relatively easier element to score a higher band if you could concentrate fully and do your homework before the test as there are no grammar issues that you need to be bothered about. If you grasped the right answer you will be given marks. So good luck and we hope that you would enjoy the test.
