What is IELTS. Preparation for courses. How Writing is rated

We invite you to take a practice IELTS test. The test consists of 10 questions to check vocabulary. You can also download the correct answers for the test

Choose the word that best matches the ellipsis. Also, we want to remind you that the forms of the word have been changed in some issues. This list shows the original forms of the word.

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Online IELTS practice test. Test 1

IELTS is widely recognized as a reliable means of assessing the language ability of candidates who need to work or study where English is the language of communication.

The IELTS exam consists of 4 sections. All candidates take the same Speaking and Listening exam. The Reading and Writing sections may differ depending on the test module. Students are offered a choice of either academic or general module. The first is aimed at those who wish to study abroad. The second is for those who leave for permanent residence or work.

The exam results are assessed on a 9-point scale, where 9 is the highest and 0 is the lowest. In this case, a point is set for each of the 4 sections separately. For example, you got 8 for reading section, 7 for speaking, and so on. Then the 4 results are added up and you get an average score.

After 14 days, each candidate can view the test results online. You will also receive one paper copy. In addition, when applying for the test, you indicate the universities where you want to send your results. Usually these are the universities where you plan to enroll.

Most universities in the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Canada and the United States accept candidates with IELTS scores of 6-7.5 when applying for study programs.

The more tests you take, the more ready you will be to pass the test successfully.

For work, study or personal development? And, as a knight at a crossroads, you don't know which one to choose? Today we take a closer look at two of the most popular exams among English learners for work and study in English speaking countries: TOEFL and IELTS.

We will compare these exams, explain what the key differences are and which exam should be chosen to profitably beat your strengths, while hiding possible knowledge gaps from the examiners (who is perfect?).

So you've learned English - on your own, or with a tutor (perhaps). And the moment has come to test your knowledge!

To study or work in an English-speaking country, you will almost certainly have to pass one of the two most recognized English proficiency exams - The International English Language Test System (IELTS) or Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL).

TOEFL or IELTS - which one should you choose and what should you base your choice on? In our article, we will provide the main characteristics of these exams and the criteria for choosing the one that will best suit your goals and capabilities.

To begin with, both of these exams cost about the same ($ 150- $ 250) and fairly accurately determine your level of English. In addition, their results are accepted in thousands of educational institutions around the world. But IELTS and TOEFL are quite noticeably different in both approach and structure, so before making a choice, weigh the pros and cons. And our article will help you determine the selection criteria.

What is IELTS

IELTS is an English proficiency test that tests English proficiency in education, immigration and employment. Its results are accepted by more than 9000 higher educational institutions in 130 countries of the world. Jointly run by organizations such as the British Council, the University of Cambridge ESOL Examinations and IDP Education Australia, this exam is conducted in British English and is more likely to be suitable for institutions in the UK and the British Commonwealth (including Australia and New Zealand). The exam comes in two versions - Academic and General, depending on your educational or professional goals.

In some cases, certification is required to obtain a Canadian or Australian immigrant visa.

What is TOEFL

The TOEFL test tests your ability to communicate in English in a research and educational context (called "Academic English"). Its results are accepted in 8,500 educational institutions in 130 countries of the world, including the UK, USA and Australia, as well as in one hundred top universities the world.

The certification is conducted under the supervision of the American Education Testing Service, therefore the exam is conducted in American English.

Major differences

In addition to the fact that these exams are conducted in different versions of English (British and American), TOEFL involves choosing an answer from several proposed options, while the format of IELTS answers is much more varied. Here and short answers (True, False, Not given - "true, false, unknown"), and the substitution of the missing word, and writing small essays on a given topic.

Taking IELTS takes much less time - 2 hours 40 minutes versus 4 hours for TOEFL. But TOEFL is taken in one day, and IELTS in two (module "Speaking" (Speaking) for rent separately).

There is only one computerized version TOEFL exam, while IELTS has 2 options (general and academic) available in paper format.

More by modules:

Reading

TOEFL- 3-5 passages to read, 20 minutes each. Reading materials on academic topics. The questions asked for the passages involve choosing an answer from several suggested options.

IELTS- 3 reading passages, 20 minutes each. Reading materials are also academic. Questions suggest a different answer format (substitution of the missing word, matching, etc.)

Listening

TOEFL- The samples offered for audition are quite noticeably different from those included in the IELTS. The TOEFL offers 40-60 minute passages ranging from lectures to conversations on campus. During the exam, you can take notes, and after its completion - answer the questions, choosing from several proposed options.

IELTS- The biggest difference between the two exams is in the listening module. The questions asked after listening take several different formats. You see the questions from the very beginning and you can answer them as you pass the test.

Writing

TOEFL- It is required to complete two written assignments (on a computer). The first task is to write an essay consisting of 5 paragraphs (from 300 to 350 words).

The second "integrated" task involves reading the text and listening to a lecture on the same topic, followed by their comparison. As you complete the assignment, you can take notes that you can use to write a written summary of 150-225 words.

IELTS- Also involves completing two tasks. The first is to write a short essay of 200-250 words. The second is to describe the infographic (graph or chart).

Speaking

TOEFL- You will have to listen to short fragments of text or dialogues and orally answer 6 different questions to the passages you listened to, writing down your answers on a computer (the answer should be no shorter than 45 and no longer than 60 seconds).

IELTS- In the IELTS version, this module takes 12-14 minutes and involves personal communication with the examiner.

The first preparatory exercise involves a conversation on general topics (a story about yourself, etc.) in a "question-answer" mode (this will take approximately 4-5 minutes).

The second exercise is longer and involves a story on a given topic (the topic itself and the theses of your future story are determined randomly). Your story should take 1-2 minutes, after which you will be asked one or two questions about the topic.

In the third part of the module, the examiner will ask more general issues... Your discussion will last 4-5 minutes.

Scoring

In TOEFL, the Speaking and Writing modules are assessed based on the overall impression you made on the examiners: your vocabulary, writing style and grammar are assessed.

These IELTS modules assess your logic, storytelling, grammar and fluency.

For example, an essay (essay) with a logical plot development, but numerous grammatical errors will be rated higher on the TOEFL, while an essay without grammatical errors and with more varied vocabulary, but less clearly expressing the main idea will receive a higher score in the IELTS ...

IELTS is assessed on a nine-point system (from 1 to 9). In this case, the final score is calculated as the arithmetic mean of the scores obtained for all four modules (in half-point increments). There is only one final grade in TOEFL (maximum 120 points).

Making a choice

Before choosing between the two, answer the following 7 questions:

1. Are you confused by the different question and answer formats?

Let's consider the answers to these questions in more detail:

Do you need English to communicate in an academic environment?

If you do not need academic English (for studying at a university or working in a research institution), definitely choose the general option IELTS (General IELTS). This is the easiest of the exams (when compared to TOEFL and Academic IELTS).

If an exam is required for admission to an educational institution or getting a job, which test will be taken at the institution of your choice?

Be sure to clarify which test is taken at a particular university or company. In the USA and Canada, this is usually TOEFL, in the countries of the British Commonwealth and Europe - IELTS.

Which version of English do you know better: British or American?

Are you a connoisseur of "Royal English" or its Australian version? You are better off taking IELTS.

Are you more familiar with American English, its pronunciation, vocabulary and idioms? Choose TOEFL.

Are you typing fast on your computer?

As you already understood, the fully computerized TOEFL requires "writing" an essay in electronic form - you have to type it on the keyboard.

Are you confused by the variety of assignment formats and answers?

It consists almost entirely of questions, the answers to which you choose from the proposed options. And it is quite convenient for the examiners.

And if you have a hard time switching from one assignment format to another, IELTS, with its variety of formats, may not be for you.

Do you prefer a predictable test or a test that can be improvised?

TOEFL is, without a doubt, more predictable. IELTS, as they say, will not let you get bored: the tasks themselves and the instructions for them are different all the time, you will need to be constantly on the alert to correctly understand what is required of you. It also makes it easier to prepare for the TOEFL for the same reason.

Are you more comfortable interacting with a computer or communicating with an examiner live?

Very a large number it is easier for examinees to "communicate" with a computer than with a human examiner. It will be much easier for such people to pass the Speaking module of the TOEFL exam, where the oral answer must be recorded on a computer - after all, it seems that no one sees or hears you, and the fear of communicating with a native English speaker disappears.

Conversely, for those who easily find mutual language with strangers who are not afraid to ask clarifying questions, IELTS is more suitable.

Whatever your choice, we hope you enjoy the test results! But for this you still have to work hard.

Therefore, do not postpone the matter indefinitely, learn English - and be successful!

IELTS, or International English Language Testing System, is a test for people who are going to stay in an English-speaking environment in connection with immigration, study or internship. It allows you to determine how much a person for whom English is not a native language, speaks it.

Take the test IELTS you need, if you plan to apply for immigration documents in connection with departure to Australia, Canada, New Zealand, enter educational institutions of these countries, as well as Irish, British or American. At the same time, the number of educational institutions that recognize the results of the IELTS test is constantly increasing in the world.

The choice of exam usually depends on the goals of the person taking it. If it comes to immigration, work or study abroad, you need an IELTS certificate or TOEFL. Although the first test appeared later, it has become more and more popular over time.

Most of the higher and secondary educational institutions different countries accept IELTS test results. Among them are Australia, New Zealand, Canada, United Kingdom, South Africa. Also, more and more universities appear in the USA, which also accept IELTS results as confirmation of knowledge of the English language. He is also authoritative among employers in different countries. These are, in particular, Brazil, Denmark, Italy, Poland, Turkey, Vietnam and others.

What is IELTS? This is a kind of diagnosis. That is, it cannot be failed, and only if you do not come to the exam at all, you will receive 0. In all other cases, you will eventually have a certificate with a score from 1 to 9. This will be your mark. In the case of immigration, you need to score 5-6 points, and if you want to study - 7 - 7.5.

The certificate will be valid for 2 years. After this period, you will need to confirm the level of language proficiency again. This is its similarity with the TOEFL certificate. But the exams of the so-called Cambridge group are known for their "perpetuity". But at the same time, the latter have no restrictions on the scope. And those educational institutions that accept the corresponding certificates - CPE and CAE, pay attention to when it was issued. Therefore, for their actual use, "indefiniteness" is no longer an advantage.

What is included in the test?
During the IELTS test, basic language skills are assessed. These are listening (comprehension and listening comprehension), writing, reading and colloquial speech... In this regard, the test is integrated. That is, language proficiency at all levels is the final result. And although specific skills are tested in each part, other skills are also used for them. For example, to check a letter and oral speech you also need to own some information that has previously been read or heard.

You receive the result of the IELTS certificate already on the 13th day after passing the test. But TOEFL - only after 4 weeks. As for the Cambridge certificates, they will have to wait 3 months.

There are two versions of the IELTS test. This is the Academic module - a version for those who want to study at a university or graduate school, as well as the General module - a version for those who want to go abroad for work or permanent residence. 30-40% of people who take this test in Russia choose the second version. The rest are Academic module.

It is worth noting that IELTS is rapidly gaining popularity around the world. At the same time, the Academic version is best passed by residents of South Africa, and General - residents of Malaysia, India and the Philippines.

At the same time, people who choose the General module version most often travel to Australia (37%), New Zealand (30%) and Canada (27%). But those who take the Academic module are going to the UK and Australia (42% and 37%, respectively).

Today, the IELTS test can be taken at 300 admission centers in more than 120 countries around the world.

Why study in an IELTS course?

Exam Is a very important step in the life of every person who decided to go abroad to get an education or get a job. Leading methodologists and linguists advise starting preparation a year before the planned test. To prepare successfully, experts advise to go through IELTS courses which exist on the basis of both leading universities and private linguistic centers. Here you can take a free test, which will help determine your level of language proficiency and choose a further preparation strategy.

What do we already know about the IELTS exam?

To date exam is very popular among exams that confirm the level of knowledge of the English language. Of course, it requires appropriate training, in principle, like any exam. In order to facilitate the preparation process, we advise you to answer the questions for yourself: how much time can you allocate for classes, and how it will be more comfortable for you to study - on your own, with a teacher on an individual basis or in courses. Try to be responsible when choosing the type of activity. Do you have the necessary materials in order to prepare yourself for IELTS exam who can supervise you, check your work, whether you can work on schedule, and so on.

IELTS Preparation: Speak English

For many candidates who are preparing to take IELTS test, the real problem is the practice of speaking. The main difficulty is with whom to talk. You are very fortunate if a family member also decided to learn English. Then make a rule, for example, from 8 to 9 pm to speak only in English. Well, as a last resort, learn to communicate with your dog or cat. It may seem ridiculous at first glance, but it gives results. Speaking English for as long as you can is great practice. And you can thank your four-legged friend with something tasty.

What is IELTS?

Do you dream of working or studying abroad?

But what is needed for this?

First of all, knowledge of the language. For example, the level of English is confirmed by such exams as IELTS, TOEFL, CAE.

IELTS is by far the most popular.

Successful passing of international exams in English means:
proof of your consistency in this subject;
advanced opportunities for admission to the British and American universities;
recruiting in these countries;

Holders of certificates of passing international examinations in English:
always first of all considered as candidates for top managers of branches of foreign companies in Russia;
enjoy the loyal attitude of the Immigration Services of Great Britain and America.

Is an international exam in English, an assessment system designed to confirm the level of proficiency in language skills.

IELTS (International English Language Testing System) rent for work or study abroad, for emigration, or simply in order to accurately assess your level of language proficiency.

IELTS testing is jointly administered and administered by the University of Cambridge ESOL, the British Council and IDP: IELTS Australia.

IELTS appeared in 1989. And now, within 20 years, it can be taken in more than 120 countries around the world.

Its results are accepted as confirmation of knowledge of the English language in most educational institutions in Australia, Great Britain, Ireland, Canada, New Zealand, South Africa and in many educational institutions USA.

Also, the IELTS certificate can be useful when applying for a job in many countries of the world, it is recognized by employers in Denmark, Italy, Brazil, Turkey and almost all countries of Eastern Europe.

IELTS certificate valid for two years. After this period, the level of language proficiency will have to be confirmed again. It is very important to know that many institutions set their own certificate expiration dates shorter than two years. For example, Citizenship and Immigration Canada accepts IELTS certificates no older than 1 year for immigration applications.

IELTS can be taken 2 times a month. Results come in 2 weeks.

The IELTS test has four parts:

• listening - checking the understanding of oral speech by ear (Listening);
• reading (Reading);
• writing (Writing);
• interview, interview (Speaking).

There are two versions of IELTS, often referred to as "Modules":

1. Academic the module is required if you want to get higher education Abroad. It should be noted that the reading and writing assignments use topics from school courses physics, chemistry, biology. For example, you may be asked to describe the water cycle or the process of photosynthesis.

2. General module (General Training) suitable for those planning to live and work in other countries, including Australia, New Zealand or Canada.

INTERNATIONAL IELTS EXAM RESULTS
The IELTS test is assessed on a nine-point system from one point (Zero language proficiency) to nine points (Proficiency in a language).

IELTS grading scale ranges from 1 to 9(0 is given to the candidate if he did not appear on the exam).

IELTS scores can be whole and half - for example, 6.0 and 6.5.
The IELTS certificate will contain grades in 4 aspects:
1. Listening
2. Reading
3. Writing
4. Speaking
and an overall GPA.

Listening and colloquial speech are the same in form for general and academic test modules.

Assignments of the Reading and Writing parts for the academic and general modules are essential differ.

Exam duration 2 hours 45 minutes.

Listening module is the same for academic and general formats and lasts 30 minutes.

Listen to the voice recording only once. In the process of listening, you simultaneously read the questions (40 questions) and answer them in writing. As the test progresses, the questions become progressively more difficult. After the end of listening to the recording, an additional 10 minutes are provided to enter the answers on the examination sheet.

Reading module contains three parts from small texts on general topics, given 60 minutes.

Academic and general formats have different texts in this module.

Academic Reading contains three parts, each of which is a text of 650-1000 words taken from specialized newspapers and magazines. General Training Reading contains three parts of short texts on general topics.

Writing module includes 2 tasks, it is assigned 60 minutes.

For Academic Writing, this is an analysis-description of a graph, graphic drawing or table (150 words) and an essay (250 words).

For General Training Writing, writing a letter (150 words) and essay (250 words).

Module Speaking 11-14 minutes long is a three-part interview with a teacher.

The first part is getting to know the examiner and talking about general topics.

In the second part, you receive a card with a specific topic, on which you need to speak (monologue) for at least one minute.

In the third part, you receive another card and talk to the examiner about the topic indicated on the card.

During the entire Speaking module, your speech is recorded audio.

The first three modules (Listening, Reading and Writing) are always held on the same day.

Speaking module can be held on the same day, or postponed to any other day within seven days before or after the day of delivery of the other three modules.

The IELTS test result in each of the four modules is assessed on a 9-point scale, after which the arithmetic mean is displayed, which is the final grade. As a rule, for training in foreign universities required 6-7 points.

Language proficiency levels and grades are based on the following scale:

0. Did not attempt the test: the examinee did not start the test, it is impossible to assess the level of knowledge.

1. None user: has no ability to use language other than some single words.

2. Intermittent user: real communication is impossible, except for the most basic, using separate words or short formulations in familiar situations and basic necessities. Serious difficulty understanding spoken and written language.

3. Extremely limited user: expresses and understands only general meaning in very familiar situations. Frequent failures in communication

4. Limited user: Ownership is limited to familiar situations. Frequent problems in understanding and expression. Unable to use complex language.

5. Modest user: partially knows the language, general understanding of the meaning in most situations, despite many mistakes. Can maintain communication in familiar situations.

6. Competent user: mostly effective language skills, despite inaccuracies, inconsistencies and misunderstandings. Can use and understand fairly complex language, especially in familiar situations.

7. Good user: speaks the language, despite occasional inaccuracies, inconsistencies and misunderstandings in some situations. Generally has a good command of complex language and understands detailed explanations.

8. Very good user: has full command of the language, only occasional unsystematic inaccuracies and inconsistencies. In unusual situations, misunderstandings may arise. Supports complex detailed argumentation well.

9. Expert user: complete proficiency in the language: adequate, accurate, quick and complete understanding.

Where can I take IELTS?

On the site www.ielts-moscow.ru You can see the search engine by city and date, where and when you can take this exam, as well as the cost for each city.

The site contains a map divided into three zones, illustrating the regional distribution among the three official organizers of IELTS in Russia:

How do I register for the exam?

Please note that registration for any exam date you choose (a total of 24 dates per year, i.e. twice a month) ends 5 weeks before the exam date. However, very often IELTS host centers renew registration after its closure.

To clarify the availability of vacancies on a particular date of the exam, as well as to register for the exam, you must contact the center of your choice.

How to Prepare for IELTS?

First of all, you need to understand the specifics of the exam: find out the requirements, the grading scale for each aspect, stock up on materials and work enthusiasm.

The IELTS test is an international language assessment system. This test is intended to test certain knowledge in English language... It was developed in order to assess the level of English proficiency for those who want to live, study or work in English-speaking countries. Now this standard is recognized in 140 countries of the world, more than 9000 different companies, both public and private, accept IELTS results. You can take the test in almost any country in the world; there are also training or advanced courses.

The test is usually carried out on Saturdays, several times a month. The exam is focused on a grading scale from 1 to 9 points, where only those who did not pass the exam at all get the lowest score. You can get one for the IELTS test only if you forget to come to it.

The difference from other assessment systems of knowledge is cardinal - depending on the purpose for which the test-taker confirms his knowledge of the language, the format is chosen.

• This is a universal exam, its results are valid all over the world, which allows you to get an international certificate.
• Anyone, regardless of citizenship and nationality, can be tested and prove their knowledge of English.
• Two modifications of the test are adapted for different purposes - the academic level differs from the general one not only in style, but also in the level of proficiency, outlook, vocabulary and other characteristics.
• Testing can be completed as many times as required.
• The IELTS exam was developed by experts in the linguistic environment, and now the test materials are prepared by first-class linguists, educators and philologists around the world.
• It should also be noted that the test is not conditional, it is a practical exam, where the candidate will have to prove their own knowledge and skills.
• The IELTS exam is accepted as a document of language proficiency when applying for a job, when entering a university or even when moving to another country.
• Diagnostic testing allows you to separate your immigration language needs from your academic needs. So, for example, the immigration level of language proficiency in IELTS is 5-6 points, but in order to study at the university, you will need to get a grade above 7 on the IELTS scale.

IELTS score system

Differences from other exams

The IELTS certificate remains valid for two years, after which it will be necessary to take the test again in order to confirm that the language skills have not been lost, or to get a higher score. This is the main difference between IELTS and Cambridge tests, which are valid indefinitely. However, on the other hand, Cambridge-type certifications are not used for any specific task. Most often, universities that count CPE and SAE diplomas pay attention to the year they were received - and here it becomes clear that the term of the diploma is not such a big plus - those who received the certificate more than three years ago are asked to confirm its results.

The appearance of the IELTS certificate

The IELTS exam can be taken as often as required - in Russia exams are held regularly. Testing takes place twice a month in the capital, and regional tests are also carried out in accredited centers.

After the exam is passed, the certificate is issued in two weeks. While the results of other tests come in 1-2 months.

How is the exam

The language proficiency test is an integral process in which examiners must ensure that the respondent understands speech, can read, speak and write. Each skill is assessed separately, then the grades are summarized in the overall result.

Of course, few people will be able to pass the three-hour test with a school volume of knowledge. Even if a person has a good command of the language at an intermediate level, this does not mean that the exam will pass successfully - it is best to prepare for the test. Preparing for Ielts can be done independently. It is not profitable for training courses to support this idea, so the most common assurance is that no one can prepare for Ielts without a teacher. This is not the case, if the level of the language is at a good level, then it is enough to perform tasks similar to those offered by Ielts for a while and mark mistakes, trying to understand their nature (and not just memorize).

Correct preparation for Ielts implies daily practice and familiarity with the exam algorithm - it will take skill to learn how to allocate time between different exam modules.

How will the Internet help?

Preparation for Ielts online is underway different ways... There are sites where tasks are collected to prepare for different modules - by completing them, everyone will be able to tighten up certain language skills.

Ielts podcasts online will also be useful - in the records people from different countries who have scored more than average points, talk about their experiences and give advice to beginners.

Tips of successful Ielts passing online will also help. The bulk of successful examinees emphasize that the main mistake during the test is not bad English, but the wrong approach to time management, which affects the Ielts certificate.

Nuances

During the Reading module, 20 minutes are allotted for the text, you need to learn how to solve tasks at the specified time or even faster - the saved time will help in solving more complex tasks.

During the Listening module in the Ielts test, you need to read the text and match it with the listened audio. You need to focus on the questions in order to answer correctly.

After the audio file ends, you can return to the questions and try to remember the answers to them. This will help you earn some points. TV shows and films in English will help you improve your skills in this module.

You can prepare for this module only by listening to live speech. It can be radio or various talk shows, the main thing is to practice listening comprehension.

The Ielts speaking test is an important module. In preparation for it, you may need a teacher, or a person with good knowledge of the language - who can correct mistakes. If this is not possible, then you can take something from the Ielts books and choose topics for Ielts speaking from there. Professionals advise you to record your speech on a voice recorder to assess pronunciation.

Preparation for the IELTS test via Skype

The Ielts writing test module is practice-based. There are enough services on the Internet to learn how to write correctly and not make mistakes. During the test, you need to describe a diagram or graph, and write an essay on a given topic with a certain number of words. It is necessary to use various literary expressions so that the speech does not look too naive.

In order to pass Ielts writing successfully, during preparation it is advisable to have a notebook and learn not only useful words, but also verbal constructions, speech turns - this will help to compose a coherent, easily readable text. After collecting about three hundred expressions and words used to link the text, you can write almost any essay and get a high Ielts certificate as a result.