IELTS – International English Language Testing System

Hello Springers, today we are going to talk about IELTS, which stands for: International English Language Testing System. This is a widely recognized test designed specifically to assess the English language proficiency of people who wish to study or work in countries where this language predominates.

O IELTS is accepted by thousands of organizations around the globe as a reliable measure of an individual's language skills, in countries such as: the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, European countries and Asia.

The test is divided into four main sections:

• Listening;
• Reading;
• Writing;
• Speaking.

Each section assesses specific skills, providing a comprehensive view of a candidate's ability to understand, communicate and interact with English in a variety of contexts.

IELTS – About the test:

Listening:

* Duration: Approximately 30 minutes.
* Format: Four sections with 40 questions in total, ranging from recorded dialogues to monologues.
* Objective: Assess the ability to understand information spoken in different contexts, such as everyday and academic situations.

Reading:

* Duration: 60 minutes.
* Structure: Three sections with academic and general texts, totaling 40 questions.
* Objective: Measure the ability to understand and interpret written information, identify main ideas, details and attitudes of the authors.

Writing:

* Time: 60 minutes.
* Components:
Task 1: Typically a graph, table, or diagram that requires a description.
Task 2: A discursive essay responding to a question or statement.
Objective: Assess the ability to express ideas in writing, organizing information clearly and developing coherent arguments.

Speaking:

* Duration: About 11-14 minutes.
* Structure: Divided into three parts; introduction and interview, presentation on a specific topic and discussion.
* Objective: Assess the ability to communicate verbally, fluency, vocabulary, grammar and argumentation capacity.

It is imperative that each section undergo training to become familiar with the exam format and develop effective strategies. Preparation contributes significantly to performance on the IELTS.

IELTS – At Spring School:

Our course uses the Official Cambridge Guide to IELTS as its main tool. Lasting between 6-8 months, depending on the student's available time to obtain the certificate.

Our focus is on immersing the student in the language, working on familiarity with the test. We will study each session, understanding the types of questions and strategies that facilitate understanding during the test. At the end of each chapter, a simulation assessment test is administered.

Because it is widely accepted for academic and general purposes, the IELTS becomes a versatile choice for people seeking higher education, professional certifications or immigration opportunities. Not only does it serve as a gateway to opportunities, it also encourages people to improve their language skills, promoting effective communication in a globalized world.

By: Teacher Keila.